Apo-Saxagliptin Product Monograph

Recent Major Label Changes

Not applicable.

Table of Contents

Certain sections or subsections that are not applicable at the time of the preparation of the most recent authorized product monograph are not listed.

Recent Major Label Changes ........................................................................................................................ 2

Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................................... 2

Part 1: Healthcare Professional Information ............................................................................................... 5

1. 1.

   Indications ............................................................................................................................................ 5

   1.1. Pediatrics ........................................................................................................................................ 5

   1.2. Geriatrics ........................................................................................................................................ 5

2. 2. Contraindications ................................................................................................................................. 5
3. 4.

   Dosage and Administration .................................................................................................................. 5

   4.1. Dosing Considerations .................................................................................................................... 5

   4.2. Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment ............................................................................... 6

   4.4. Administration ................................................................................................................................ 6

   4.5. Missed Dose ................................................................................................................................... 7

4. 5. Overdose ............................................................................................................................................... 7
5. 6. Dosage Forms, Strengths, Composition, and Packaging ..................................................................... 7
6. 7.

   Warnings and Precautions ................................................................................................................... 8

   Cardiovascular ....................................................................................................................................... 8

   Driving and Operating Machinery ......................................................................................................... 8

   Endocrine and Metabolism ................................................................................................................... 8

   Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic .................................................................................................................... 8

   Immune ................................................................................................................................................. 9

   Monitoring and Laboratory Tests .......................................................................................................... 9

   Musculoskeletal .................................................................................................................................... 9

   Perioperative Considerations .............................................................................................................. 10

   Renal .................................................................................................................................................... 10

   Reproductive Health ........................................................................................................................... 10

   Sensitivity/Resistance ......................................................................................................................... 10

   Skin.. .................................................................................................................................................... 10

   7.1. Special Populations ...................................................................................................................... 11

   7.1.1. Pregnancy .................................................................................................................................. 11

   7.1.2. Breastfeeding ............................................................................................................................ 11

   7.1.3 Pediatrics .................................................................................................................................... 11

   7.1.4. Geriatrics ................................................................................................................................... 11

7. 8.

   Adverse Reactions .............................................................................................................................. 11

   8.1. Adverse Reaction Overview ......................................................................................................... 11

   8.2. Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions .................................................................................................... 12

   8.3. Less Common Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions ............................................................................ 19

   8.4 Abnormal Laboratory Findings: Hematologic, Clinical Chemistry and Other Quantitative Data20

   8.5. Post-Market Adverse Reactions ................................................................................................... 21

8. 9.

   Drug Interactions ................................................................................................................................ 21

   9.2. Drug Interactions Overview ......................................................................................................... 21

   9.3. Drug-Behaviour Interactions ........................................................................................................ 21

   9.4. Drug-Drug Interactions ................................................................................................................. 21

   9.5. Drug-Food Interactions ................................................................................................................ 28

   9.6. Drug-Herb Interactions ................................................................................................................ 28

   9.7. Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions ............................................................................................... 28

9. 10.

   Clinical Pharmacology ........................................................................................................................ 28

   10.1. Mechanism of Action ................................................................................................................. 28

   10.2. Pharmacodynamics .................................................................................................................... 29

   10.3. Pharmacokinetics ....................................................................................................................... 30

10. 11. Storage, Stability, and Disposal.......................................................................................................... 32

Part 2: Scientific Information ..................................................................................................................... 33

1. 13. Pharmaceutical Information .............................................................................................................. 33
2. 14.

   Clinical Trials ....................................................................................................................................... 34

   14.1. Clinical Trial by Indication .......................................................................................................... 34

   Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin ............................................................................... 34

   Add-On Combination Therapy with a Sulfonylurea .......................................................................... 37

   Add-On Combination Therapy with Insulin (with or without Metformin) ....................................... 40

   Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin and a Sulfonylurea ................................................ 42

   14.2. Comparative Bioavailability Studies ........................................................................................... 44

3. 16. Non-Clinical Toxicology ...................................................................................................................... 45
4. 17. Supporting Product Monographs.................................................................................................. 46

Patient Medication Information ................................................................................................................ 47

Part 1: Healthcare Professional Information

1. Indications

• Add-on combination: APO-SAXAGLIPTIN (saxagliptin tablets) is indicated in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve glycemic control, in combination with:

  • metformin, or
  • sulfonylurea, or
  • metformin and a sulfonylurea, or
  • premixed or long/intermediate acting insulin (alone or with metformin)

when the existing therapy, along with diet and exercise, does not provide adequate glycemic control.

1.1. Pediatrics

Pediatrics (< 18 years of age): Safety and effectiveness of saxagliptin tablets in pediatric patients have not been established. Therefore, Health Canada has not authorized an indication for pediatric use.

1.2. Geriatrics

Geriatrics (≥ 65 years of age): Evidence from clinical studies and experience suggests that no dosage adjustment is required based on age. However greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out (see 4.2 Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment, 7.1.4 Geriatrics, and 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).

2. Contraindications

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN (saxagliptin tablets) is contraindicated in:

• Patients who have had a history of any hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis or angioedema, to saxagliptin or to another DPP-4 inhibitor, or to any ingredient in the formulation (see Sensitivity/Resistance). For a complete listing, see 6 Dosage Forms, Strengths, Composition, and Packaging.
• Patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma/precoma or type 1 diabetes mellitus. These conditions should be treated with insulin.

4. Dosage and Administration

4.1. Dosing Considerations

• Assessment of renal function is recommended prior to initiation of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and periodically thereafter (see Monitoring and Laboratory Tests, Renal, and 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).
• Dose adjustment may be required in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment (see 4.2. Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment).
• APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis.
• Use of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment is not recommended due to lack of clinical experience with this patient population (see 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).
• When APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is used in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea or with insulin (with or without metformin), a lower dose of the insulin secretagogue or insulin may be considered to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia (see Endocrine and Metabolism and 8.2 Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions).

4.2. Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment

The recommended dose of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is 5 mg once daily, taken orally for all indications.

Renal Impairment

Mild renal impairment

• No dosage adjustment for APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is recommended for patients with mild renal impairment (eGFR 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m² (by Modified Diet in Renal Disease [MDRD] eGFR equation)).

Moderate renal impairment

• No dosage adjustment is required for patients with eGFR ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73 m².
• For patients with moderate renal impairment with eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m², the dose is 2.5 mg once daily.

Severe renal impairment

• APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. For patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), the recommended dose is 2.5 mg once daily.

Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment for APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is necessary for patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A).

Saxagliptin has not been studied in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C) and is not recommended for use in this population.

Geriatrics (≥65 years of age)

No dosage adjustment for APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is required based solely on age (see 7.1.4. Geriatrics, 10.3. Pharmacokinetics, and 14. Clinical Trials).

Pediatrics (<18 years of age)

Health Canada has not authorized an indication for pediatric use (see 1.1. Pediatrics).

4.4. Administration

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should be taken orally. APO-SAXAGLIPTIN may be taken with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole and must not be split or cut.

4.5. Missed Dose

If a dose of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is missed, it should be taken as soon as the patient remembers. A double dose of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should not be taken on the same day.

5. Overdose

In the event of an overdose, appropriate supportive treatment should be initiated as dictated by the patient’s clinical status. Saxagliptin and its major metabolite are removed by hemodialysis (23% of dose over 4 hours).

For the most recent information in the management of a suspected drug overdose, contact your regional poison control centre or Health Canada’s toll-free number, 1-844 POISON-X (1-844-764-7669).

1. 6. Dosage Forms, Strengths, Composition, and Packaging

Table 1: Dosage Forms, Strengths, and Composition

Description

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN tablets are supplied in 2.5 mg and 5 mg strengths for oral administration.

2.5 mg Tablets

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN 2.5 mg tablets are yellow, round, biconvex coated tablets. Engraved “T” on one side, plain on the other side.

The 2.5 mg tablets are provided in blisters in cartons of 30 and in bottles of 100 tablets.

5 mg Tablets

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN 5 mg tablets are pink, round, biconvex coated tablets. Engraved “S” on one side, plain on the other side.

The 5 mg tablets are provided in blisters in cartons of 30 and in bottle of 100 tablets.

7. Warnings and Precautions

Cardiovascular

Patients with Congestive Heart Failure

In a post-market placebo-controlled cardiovascular outcomes trial (SAVOR), hospitalization for heart failure occurred at a greater rate in the saxagliptin tablets group (3.5%) compared to the placebo group (2.8%) [HR =1.27; 95% confidence interval 1.07, 1.51]. In the SAVOR trial, 2105 (12.8%) patients had a history of congestive heart failure, of whom 1056 were randomized to saxagliptin tablets treatment. Caution is warranted if APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is used in patients with history of congestive heart failure (especially in those patients who also have renal impairment and/or history of myocardial infarction [MI]). During therapy with APO-SAXAGLIPTIN, patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure. Patients should be advised of characteristic symptoms of heart failure, and to immediately report such symptoms. If heart failure develops, discontinue APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and manage according to current standards of care (see 8.2 Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions).

Driving and Operating Machinery

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive or to use machinery have been performed with saxagliptin tablets. If patients experience fatigue, dizziness or other symptoms affecting their ability to concentrate and react, it is recommended that they do not drive or use machines until the effect subsides.

Endocrine and Metabolism

Hypoglycemia

A lower dose of sulfonylurea or insulin may be required to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with APO-SAXAGLIPTIN (see 8.2 Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions).

Loss of control of blood glucose

When a patient stabilized on APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is exposed to stress such as fever, trauma, infection, or surgery, a loss of control of blood glucose may occur. At such times, it may be necessary to temporarily discontinue APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and administer insulin.

Use with potent CYP3A4 inducers

Using CYP3A4 inducers like carbamazepine, dexamethasone, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and rifampin may reduce the glycemic lowering effect of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN (see 9.4 Drug-Drug Interactions).

Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic

Hepatic Insufficiency

There are limited clinical data in patients with hepatic impairment taking multiple doses of saxagliptin tablets. The use of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment is not recommended (see 4.1 Dosing Considerations, and 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).

Pancreatitis

There have been post-marketing reports of acute and chronic pancreatitis in patients taking saxagliptin tablets. Reports of fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis were noted in patients taking other members of this class. After initiation of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN, patients should be observed carefully for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis. If pancreatitis is suspected, APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should promptly be discontinued and appropriate management should be initiated. It is unknown whether patients with a history of pancreatitis are at increased risk for the development of pancreatitis while using APO-SAXAGLIPTIN. Risk factors for pancreatitis include a history of pancreatitis, gallstones, alcoholism, or hypertriglyceridemia.

Immune

Immunocompromised patients

A dose-related mean decrease in absolute lymphocyte count was observed with saxagliptin tablets. When clinically indicated, such as in settings of unusual or prolonged infection, lymphocyte count should be measured. The effect of saxagliptin tablets on lymphocyte counts in patients with lymphocyte abnormalities (e.g. human immunodeficiency virus) is unknown. See 8.4 Abnormal Laboratory Findings: Hematologic, Clinical Chemistry and Other Quantitative Data.

Immunocompromised patients, such as patients who have undergone organ transplantation or patients diagnosed with human immunodeficiency syndrome, have not been studied in the saxagliptin tablets clinical program. Therefore, the efficacy and safety profile of saxagliptin in these patients has not been established.

Monitoring and Laboratory Tests

Blood glucose

Response should be monitored by periodic measurements of blood glucose and HbA1c (A1C) levels.

Heart failure

Patients with a history of heart failure or other risk factors for heart failure, including renal impairment, should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of heart failure.

Renal

Assessment of renal function is recommended prior to initiation of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and periodically thereafter.

Skin disorders

In keeping with routine care of the diabetic patient, monitoring for skin disorders is recommended.

Musculoskeletal

Severe and Disabling Arthralgia

Severe and disabling arthralgias have been reported post- marketing in patients taking saxagliptin tablets or other DPP-4 inhibitors. Onset of symptoms following initiation of drug therapy varied from one day to years. Saxagliptin is considered a possible cause for severe joint pain. Patients experienced relief of symptoms upon discontinuation of the medication and some experienced recurrence of symptoms with reintroduction of saxagliptin tablets or another DPP-4 inhibitor. If a patient treated with APO-SAXAGLIPTIN, presents with severe joint pain, discontinuation of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and replacement with other antidiabetic medications should be considered (see 8.5 Post- Market Adverse Reactions).

Perioperative Considerations

See Endocrine and Metabolism.

Renal

Renal Impairment

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment, and is not recommended for use in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis. In patients with eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m², the dose is 2.5 mg once daily (see 4.1 Dosing Considerations, 4.2 Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment).

Assessment of renal function is recommended prior to initiation of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN, and periodically thereafter (see 4.1 Dosing Considerations, 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).

Reproductive Health

• Fertility

  There is no information on the effect of saxagliptin tablets on human fertility. Animal studies have shown that saxagliptin tablets had no adverse effects on fertility in rats at 200 mg/kg/day (males) or 125 mg/kg/day (females) (see 16 Non-Clinical Toxicology).

Sensitivity/Resistance

There have been post-marketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, in patients treated with saxagliptin tablets and other members of this class. Exfoliative skin conditions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome have also been reported in patients treated with saxagliptin tablets and other members of this class, although causality with saxagliptin tablets has not been established. Onset of these reactions occurred within the first 3 months after initiation of the treatment, with some reports occurring after the first dose. If a hypersensitivity reaction to saxagliptin is suspected, discontinue APO-SAXAGLIPTIN, assess for other potential causes for the event, and institute alternative treatment for diabetes (see 2 Contraindications, and 8.5 Post-Market Adverse Reactions).

Skin

Ulcerative and necrotic skin lesions have been reported in monkeys in non-clinical toxicology studies (see 16 Non-Clinical Toxicology). Although skin lesions were not observed at an increased incidence in clinical trials, there is limited experience in patients with diabetic skin complications. Rash is noted as an adverse event for saxagliptin tablets (see 8.2 Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions).

Bullous pemphigoid

Post-marketing cases of bullous pemphigoid requiring hospitalization have been reported with the use of saxagliptin tablets and other DPP-4 inhibitors. In reported cases, patients typically recovered with topical or systemic immunosuppressive treatment and discontinuation of the DPP-4 inhibitor. Tell patients to immediately report development of blisters or erosions while receiving APO-SAXAGLIPTIN. If bullous pemphigoid is suspected, APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should be discontinued and referral to a dermatologist should be considered for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

7.1. Special Populations

7.1.1. Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. As animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is not recommended for use in pregnancy (see 16 Non-Clinical Toxicology).

7.1.2. Breastfeeding

Saxagliptin is secreted in the milk of lactating rats. It is not known whether saxagliptin is excreted in human milk. Therefore, APO-SAXAGLIPTIN should not be used by a woman who is nursing.

7.1.3. Pediatrics

Pediatrics (< 18 years of age): Safety and effectiveness of saxagliptin tablets in pediatric patients have not been established. Therefore, Health Canada has not authorized an indication for pediatric use.

7.1.4. Geriatrics

Geriatrics (≥ 65 years of age): Of the total number of subjects (N=4148) studied in controlled clinical safety and efficacy studies of saxagliptin tablets, 634 (15.3%) patients were 65 years and over, of which 59 (1.4%) patients were 75 years and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between subjects 65 years and over and younger subjects. While this clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Saxagliptin and its major metabolite are known to be eliminated in part by the kidney. Renal function should be assessed prior to initiating APO-SAXAGLIPTIN and periodically thereafter in geriatric patients because they are more likely to have decreased renal function. Care should be taken in prescribing APO-SAXAGLIPTIN in this population based on renal function (see 4.1 Dosing Considerations, 4.2 Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment, Monitoring and Laboratory Tests, and 10.3 Pharmacokinetics).

8. Adverse Reactions

8.1. Adverse Reaction Overview

Saxagliptin tablets was generally well tolerated in controlled clinical studies as an add-on to metformin, as an add-on to sulfonylurea, as an add-on to insulin (with or without metformin) and as an add-on to metformin and a sulfonylurea with the overall incidence of adverse events similar to that reported with placebo.

In a placebo-controlled clinical study of patients receiving saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to metformin, the incidence of serious adverse events was 9.9% and 5.6% respectively. The most commonly reported adverse events, reported regardless of causality and more common with saxagliptin tablets than placebo, were nasopharyngitis and bronchitis. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events occurred in 7.3% and 4.5% of patients, respectively.

In a placebo-controlled clinical study of patients receiving saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to sulfonylurea (glyburide), the incidence of serious adverse events was 3.6% and 5.6% respectively. The most commonly reported adverse events, reported regardless of causality and more common with saxagliptin tablets than placebo, were hypoglycemia and urinary tract infection. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events occurred in 4.7% and 3.4% of patients, respectively.

In a placebo-controlled clinical study of patients receiving saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to insulin (with or without metformin), the incidence of serious adverse events was 8.2% and 8.6% respectively. The most commonly reported adverse events, reported regardless of causality and more common with saxagliptin tablets than placebo, were headache and bronchitis. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events occurred in 3.0% and 2.0% of patients, respectively.

In a placebo-controlled clinical study of patients receiving saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to metformin and a sulfonylurea, the incidence of serious adverse events was 2.3% and 5.5% respectively. The most commonly reported adverse events, reported regardless of causality and more common with saxagliptin tablets than placebo, were hypoglycemia, hypertension and diarrhea. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events occurred in 0.8 % and 2.3% of patients, respectively.

8.2. Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions

Clinical trials are conducted under very specific conditions. Therefore, the frequencies of adverse reactions observed in the clinical trials may not reflect frequencies observed in clinical practice and should not be compared to frequencies reported in clinical trials of another drug.

Adverse events, reported regardless of causality assessment, in ≥2 % of patients treated with either saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to metformin or add-on to sulfonylurea (glyburide) are shown in Table 2.

Table 2: Adverse Events (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) in the Add-on to Metformin^a Study and in Add-on to Sulfonylurea^b Study (24-week Short-Term Study and the Long-Term Extension) Reported in ≥ 2% of Patients Treated with Either Saxagliptin 5 mg or Placebo in at Least One Study

^a The mean duration of exposure to double-blind study medication, including exposure after the initiation of rescue medication, was 75 weeks (Standard Deviation = 34) for saxagliptin 5 mg plus metformin and 68 weeks (Standard Deviation = 35) for placebo plus metformin groups.

^b The mean duration of exposure to double-blind study medication, including exposure after the initiation of rescue medication, was 50 weeks (Standard Deviation = 17) for saxagliptin 5 mg plus glyburide and 48 weeks (Standard Deviation = 17) for placebo plus up-titrated glyburide groups.

^c “Hypoglycemia” includes events of Hypoglycemia and Blood Glucose Decreased.

Rash-related adverse events in the add-on to metformin study (24-week short-term and long- term extension) were reported in 4.2% and 2.8% of patients who received saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and placebo, respectively. In the add-on to sulfonylurea study (24-week short-term and long- term extension) rash-related events were reported in 1.6 % and 1.1% of patients who received saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and placebo, respectively.

In a pooled analysis of the 24-week placebo-controlled clinical trials, hypersensitivity-related events, such as urticaria and facial edema were reported in 1.5% and 0.4% of patients who received saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and placebo, respectively. None of these events in patients who received saxagliptin tablets required hospitalization or were reported as life-threatening by the investigators. One saxagliptin tablets treated patient in this pooled analysis discontinued due to generalized urticaria and facial edema.

In the short-term 24-week add-on to sulfonylurea study (glyburide 7.5 mg), the overall incidence of hypoglycemia was higher for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg versus placebo (14.6% versus 10.1%). The incidence of confirmed hypoglycemic events, defined as symptoms of hypoglycemia accompanied by a fingerstick glucose value of ≤ 2.8 mmol/L, was similar for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg treated group (0.8%) and placebo group (0.7%). In the long-term extension of the add-on to sulfonylurea study, the overall incidence of hypoglycemia was similar for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg (19.8%) versus up-titrated sulfonylurea plus placebo (19.8% versus 18.4%).

The adverse event of hypertension was reported in more patients on saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide (8.3%) versus placebo plus glyburide (4.9%) in the add-on to sulfonylurea trial. Analysis of the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure values did not reveal clinically meaningful changes.

Adverse reactions, reported regardless of causality assessment, in ≥2 % of patients treated with either saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to insulin (with or without metformin) are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) in the Add on to Insulin Study^a (24-week Short-Term Study and the Long-Term Extension) Reported in ≥ 2% of Patients Treated with Either Saxagliptin 5 mg or Placebo

^aThe mean duration of exposure to double-blind study medication, including exposure after changes in insulin medication, was 47 week (Standard Deviation = 13) for saxagliptin 5 mg plus insulin and 47 weeks (Standard Deviation = 13) for placebo plus insulin groups.

^b“Hypoglycemia” includes events of Hypoglycemia and Blood Glucose Decreased.

^cTerm as reported; cases do not meet medically accepted definition of hypertensive crisis.

In the short-term 24-week add-on to insulin study, the overall incidence of reported hypoglycemia was 18.4% for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and 19.9% for placebo. The incidence of confirmed hypoglycemic events, defined as symptoms of hypoglycemia accompanied by a fingerstick glucose value of ≤ 2.8 mmol/L, was 5.3% for the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg treated group versus 3.3% for the placebo group. In the long-term extension of the add-on to insulin study, the overall incidence of hypoglycemia was lower for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg (22.7%) versus placebo (26.5%) plus insulin with or without metformin.

Adverse reactions, reported regardless of causality assessment, in ≥2 % of patients treated with either saxagliptin 5 mg or placebo as an add-on to metformin and a sulfonylurea are shown in Table 4.

Table 4: Adverse Reactions (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) in the Add-on to Metformin and a Sulfonylurea (SU) Study^a (24-week) Reported in ≥ 2% of Patients Treated with Either Saxagliptin 5 mg or Placebo

^aThe mean duration of exposure to double-blind study medication was 159 days (Standard Deviation = 31) in the saxagliptin 5 mg group and 160 days (Standard Deviation = 30) for the placebo group.

^b“Hypoglycemia” includes events of Hypoglycemia and Blood Glucose Decrease.

Post-Marketing, Cardiovascular Safety

The Saxagliptin Assessment of Vascular Outcomes Recorded in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (SAVOR) Trial was a CV outcome trial in 16,492 type 2 diabetic patients (median HbA1c = 7.6%) (12959 with established CV disease; 3533 with multiple risk factors only) who were randomized to saxagliptin(n=8280) or placebo (n=8212). The study population also included those ≥65 years (n=8561) and ≥ 75 years (n=2330), with normal or mild renal impairment (n=13,916) as well as moderate (n=2240) or severe (n=336) renal impairment. Subjects were followed for a mean duration of 2 years.

The primary endpoint was a composite endpoint consisting of the time-to-first occurrence of any of the following major adverse CV events (MACE): CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal ischemic stroke.

The trial established that the upper bound of the 2-sided 95% CI for the estimated risk ratio comparing the incidence of the primary composite endpoint observed with saxagliptin to that observed in the placebo group was <1.3. The study did not demonstrate the superiority of saxagliptin compared with placebo when added to current background therapy, in reducing the primary MACE endpoint (HR 1.00; 95% CI: 0.89, 1.12; p = 0.986).

Hospitalization for heart failure, occurred at a greater rate in the saxagliptin group (3.5%) compared with the placebo group (2.8%) [HR = 1.27; (95% CI 1.07, 1.51). Subjects on saxagliptin with a baseline history of congestive heart failure, especially those who also had renal impairment and/or MI, were at higher absolute risk for hospitalization for heart failure.

8.3. Less Common Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions

Serious adverse reactions (reported in < 2% of patients) and adverse reactions of interest* (reported in < 2% of patients and in at least 2 patients), regardless of investigator assessment of causality and frequency greater than placebo, in the add-on to Metformin, add-on to Sulfonylurea, add-on to Insulin (with or without Metformin) studies (24-week short-term and the long-term extensions) and in the add-on to Metformin and a Sulfonylurea study (24-week):

Blood and lymphatic system disorders*: eosinophilia, lymphopenia, iron deficiency anemia, normochromic normocytic anemia,

Cardiac disorders*: coronary artery disease, left ventricular hypertrophy, atrioventricular block first degree, bundle branch block left, mitral valve incompetence, myocardial ischemia, palpitations, ventricular extrasystoles, acute myocardial infarction, atrioventricular block complete, cardiac failure congestive, cardiogenic shock

Gastrointestinal disorders: abdominal pain, diarrhea, salivary gland mass, vomiting

Hepatobiliary disorders: cholecystitis acute, cholecystitis, hepatitis

Immune system disorders*: hypersensitivity, sarcoidosis

Infections and infestations: cellulitis orbital, clostridium difficile colitis, urosepsis, diverticulitis, lower respiratory tract infection

Injury, poisoning and procedural complications: road traffic accident, ankle fracture, fall, gastrointestinal injury, incisional hernia, limb injury, skin laceration

Investigations*: aspartate aminotransferase increased, c-reactive protein increased, electrocardiogram repolarisation abnormality, blood cholesterol increased, blood pressure increased, electrocardiogram abnormal, lymphocyte count decreased

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: dehydration

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: arthralgia, osteoarthritis

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (including cysts and polyps): myelodysplastic syndrome, pancreatic cancer, laryngeal cancer

Nervous system disorders: altered state of consciousness, dizziness

Renal and urinary disorders: calculus ureteric, calculus urinary, renal impairment

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: hemoptysis, pulmonary embolism

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders*: rash, alopecia, dermatitis atopic, hyperhidrosis, rash papular, skin lesion, dermatitis contact, dermatitis, dry skin, seborrhoeic dermatitis, urticaria

Surgical and medical procedures: sterilisation

*System Organ Classes were considered to be of interest based on the adverse event profile of the DPP-4 inhibitor class of drugs, non-clinical data for saxagliptin, as well as the patient population.

8.4. Abnormal Laboratory Findings: Hematologic, Clinical Chemistry and Other Quantitative Data

Absolute Lymphocyte Counts

A dose-related mean decrease in absolute lymphocyte count was observed with saxagliptin tablets. From a baseline absolute lymphocyte count of approximately 2200 cells/mcL, a mean decrease of approximately 100 cells/mcL relative to placebo was observed in a pooled analysis of the placebo-controlled clinical studies. The proportion of patients who were reported to have a lymphocyte count ≤ 750 cells/ mcL was 1.5% in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg group and 0.4% in the placebo group. The decreases in lymphocyte count were not associated with clinically relevant adverse reactions. When clinically indicated, such as in settings of unusual or prolonged infection, lymphocyte count should be measured. The effect of saxagliptin tablets on lymphocyte counts in patients with lymphocyte abnormalities (e.g. human immunodeficiency virus) is unknown.

Platelets

Saxagliptin tablets did not demonstrate a clinically meaningful or consistent effect on platelet count in the double-blind, controlled clinical safety and efficacy trials. In the add-on to insulin trial, there was a -2.6% decrease from baseline in platelet count in the saxagliptin group compared with a -0.1% decrease in the placebo group. An event of thrombocytopenia, consistent with a diagnosis of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, was observed in the clinical program. The relationship of this event to saxagliptin tablets is not known.

Urinary white and red blood cell counts

In the add-on to insulin trial, there was a higher percentage of saxagliptin patients, compared to placebo patients who presented with marked urinary red blood cell counts (15.1% saxagliptin versus 3.2% placebo) and urinary white blood cell counts (30.4% versus 18.9%). No consistent findings of urine laboratory abnormalities have been observed in the overall saxagliptin clinical program. No imbalances were observed for either URBC or UWBC in the pooled analysis of Phase 2/3 studies.

8.5. Post-Market Adverse Reactions

Additional adverse reactions have been identified during post-marketing use of saxagliptin tablets. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

Gastrointestinal disorders: acute and chronic pancreatitis (see Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic)

Immune system disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash, urticaria and exfoliative skin conditions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (see 2 Contraindications and Sensitivity/Resistance)

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: severe and disabling arthralgia (see Musculoskeletal), rhabdomyolysis.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: bullous pemphigoid (see Skin)

9. Drug Interactions

9.2. Drug Interactions Overview

The metabolism of saxagliptin is primarily mediated by P450 3A4/5 (CYP3A4/5).

In in vitro studies, saxagliptin and its major pharmacologically active metabolite neither inhibited nor induced CYP3A4. In addition, in in vitro studies, saxagliptin and its major pharmacologically active metabolite neither inhibited CYP1A2, 2A6, 2B6, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, nor induced CYP1A2, 2B6, 2C9. Therefore, saxagliptin is unlikely to alter the metabolic clearance of coadministered drugs that are metabolized by these enzymes. Saxagliptin is neither a significant inhibitor of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) nor an inducer of P-gp, and is unlikely to cause interactions with drugs that utilize these pathways.

The in vitro protein binding of saxagliptin and its major metabolite in human serum is below measurable levels. Thus, protein binding would not have a meaningful influence on the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin or other drugs.

9.3. Drug-Behaviour Interactions

Effects of Smoking, Alcohol, and Diet

The effects of smoking, diet, and alcohol use on the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin tablets have not been specifically studied.

9.4. Drug-Drug Interactions

The drugs listed below in Table 5 are based on either drug interaction case reports or studies, or potential interactions due to the expected magnitude and seriousness of the interaction.

Effect of other drugs on saxagliptin

In studies conducted in healthy subjects as described below, the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin and its major metabolite were not meaningfully altered by metformin, glyburide, pioglitazone, digoxin, simvastatin, diltiazem, ketoconazole, omeprazole, aluminum hydroxide + magnesium hydroxide + simethicone combination, or famotidine. These drugs are considered unlikely to cause a clinically meaningful interaction with APO-SAXAGLIPTIN.

Effect of saxagliptin on other drugs

In studies conducted in healthy subjects, as described below, saxagliptin did not meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics of metformin, glyburide, pioglitazone, digoxin, simvastatin, diltiazem, ketoconazole, or an estrogen/progestin combined oral contraceptive. APO-SAXAGLIPTIN is considered unlikely to cause a clinically meaningful interaction with these drugs.

Table 5: Established or Potential Drug-Drug Interactions

Legend: CT = Clinical trial; T = Theoretical

9.5. Drug-Food Interactions

APO-SAXAGLIPTIN may be taken with or without food. There are no known interactions with food. Grapefruit juice being a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4 gut wall metabolism may give rise to modest increases in plasma levels of saxagliptin.

9.6. Drug-Herb Interactions

Interactions with herbal products have not been established.

9.7. Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions

Interactions with laboratory tests have not been established.

10. Clinical Pharmacology

10.1. Mechanism of Action

Saxagliptin and its major metabolite are potent, selective, reversible, competitive, DPP-4 inhibitors. Saxagliptin demonstrates selectivity for DPP-4 versus other DPP enzymes, including DPP-8 and DPP-9. Saxagliptin and its major metabolite have extended binding to the DPP-4 active site, prolonging its inhibition of DPP-4, but do not have extended duration of binding to other enzymes, including DPP-8 and DPP-9. Saxagliptin exerts its actions in patients with type 2 diabetes by slowing the inactivation of incretin hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The concentration of active (intact) GLP-1 incretin hormone is increased. Saxagliptin was a potent inhibitor of T-cell cell surface DPP activity in cell based assays, but did not inhibit T-cell activation either in vitro or in vivo.

Incretin hormones are released by the intestine throughout the day and concentrations are increased in response to a meal. These hormones are rapidly inactivated by the enzyme DPP-4. The incretins are part of an endogenous system involved in the physiologic regulation of glucose homeostasis. When blood glucose concentrations are elevated, GLP-1 and GIP increase insulin synthesis and release from pancreatic beta cells. GLP-1 also lowers glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells, leading to reduced hepatic glucose production.

The concentration of GLP-1 is reduced in patients with type 2 diabetes, but saxagliptin increases active GLP-1 concentration. By increasing active GLP-1 concentration, saxagliptin increases postprandial insulin release and decreases postprandial glucagon concentrations in the circulation in a glucose-dependent manner. In patients with type 2 diabetes with hyperglycemia, these changes in insulin and glucagon levels may lead to lower hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) and lower fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations.

10.2. Pharmacodynamics

In patients with type 2 diabetes, administration of saxagliptin tablets led to dose- dependent inhibition of DPP-4 enzyme activity for a 24-hour period. After an oral glucose load or a meal, this DPP-4 inhibition resulted in a 2- to 3-fold increase in circulating levels of active GLP-1, decreased postprandial glucagon concentrations, and increased glucose- dependent beta cell responsiveness with higher postprandial insulin and C-peptide concentrations. The rise in insulin and decrease in glucagon were associated with lower fasting glucose concentrations and reduced glucose excursion following an oral glucose load or a meal.

Saxagliptin, when dosed orally, demonstrated dose-related inhibition of DPP-4 in ex vivo assays in rats, dogs and cynomolgus monkeys. In acute in vivo studies, saxagliptin increased concentrations of intact GLP-1 in response to a meal in lean rats (maximum effect at 1 mg/kg). Saxagliptin also increased plasma insulin and lowered plasma glucose following an oral glucose tolerance test in obese insulin resistant and diabetic animal rodent models (maximum effect range 0.4 to 1.3 mg/kg). In chronic dosing studies using the progressively diabetic ZDF rat model, saxagliptin (4 mg/kg/day) delayed development of fasting hyperglycemia and the results of oral glucose tolerance tests showed significantly improved glucose homeostasis. These results are consistent with the mechanism of action of saxagliptin and its effects as an anti-hyperglycemic agent.

Cardiac electrophysiology: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 4-way crossover, active comparator study, 40 healthy subjects were administered saxagliptin 40 mg (8 times the RHD), saxagliptin 10 mg (2 times the RHD), or placebo once daily for 4 days, or a single dose of moxifloxacin 400 mg as a positive control. The saxagliptin 10 mg and 40 mg treatments were not associated with any prolongation of the QTc, QRS, or PR intervals. In the saxagliptin 10 mg treatment a significant increase in heart rate was observed at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 4, and 12 h post-dosing, with a maximum placebo- and baseline-corrected mean increase of 3.75 (90% 1.55, 5.95) beats per minute at 0.5 post-dosing when the baseline-corrected change in the placebo treatment at this time was -1.4 (90% CI -3.0, 0.1) beats per minute. Significant increases in heart rate were also observed in the saxagliptin 40 mg treatment at 0.5, 4, and 12 hours post-dosing, with a maximum placebo- and baseline-corrected mean increase of 4.5 (90% CI 2.23, 6.82) beats per minute at 4 hours post-dose dose when the baseline-corrected change in the placebo treatment at this time was -3.3 (90% CI -5.0, -1.6) beats per minute. The effect of the recommended 5 mg dose was not investigated in this study.

10.3. Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin has been extensively characterized in healthy subjects and patients with type 2 diabetes (Table 6).

Table 6: Summary of Saxagliptin's Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Healthy Subjects

Saxagliptin was rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with maximum saxagliptin plasma concentrations (C_max) usually attained within two hours after administration in the fasted state. The C_max and AUC values increased proportionally to the increment in the saxagliptin dose. Following a 5 mg single oral dose of saxagliptin to healthy subjects, the mean plasma AUC(INF) values for saxagliptin and its major metabolite were 78 ng·h/mL and 214 ng·h/mL, respectively. The corresponding plasma C_max values were 24 ng/mL and 47 ng/mL, respectively. The intra-subject coefficients of variation for saxagliptin C_max and AUC were less than 12%.

Following a single oral dose of 5 mg saxagliptin to healthy subjects, the mean plasma terminal half-life (t_1/2) for saxagliptin was 2.5 hours, and the mean t_1/2 value for plasma DPP-4 inhibition was 26.9 hours. The inhibition of plasma DPP-4 activity by saxagliptin occurs for at least 24-hours after oral administration of saxagliptin tablets. No appreciable accumulation was observed with repeated once-daily dosing at any dose level. No dose- and time-dependence was observed in the clearance of saxagliptin and its major metabolite over 14 days of once- daily dosing with saxagliptin at doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 400 mg. Results from population-based exposure modeling suggest that the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin and its major metabolite were similar in healthy subjects and in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The C_max and AUC values for the major metabolite of saxagliptin increased proportionally to the increment in the saxagliptin dose. Following single oral doses of 2.5 mg to 400 mg saxagliptin in the fed or fasted states, the mean AUC values for the major metabolite ranged from 2- and 7 times higher than the parent saxagliptin exposures on a molar basis. Following a single oral dose of 5 mg saxagliptin in the fasted state, the mean terminal half-life (t_1/2) value for the major metabolite was 3.1 hours and no appreciable accumulation was observed upon repeated once-daily dosing at any dose.

Absorption: Saxagliptin tablets may be administered with or without food. The amount of saxagliptin absorbed following an oral dose is at least 75%. Food had relatively modest effects on the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin in healthy subjects. Administration with a high-fat meal resulted in no change in saxagliptin C_max and a 27% increase in AUC compared with the fasted state. The time for saxagliptin to reach C_max (T_max) was increased by approximately 0.5 hours with food compared with the fasted state. These changes were not considered to be clinically meaningful.

Distribution: The in vitro protein binding of saxagliptin and its major metabolite in human serum is below measurable levels. Thus, changes in blood protein levels in various disease states (e.g., renal or hepatic impairment) are not expected to alter the disposition of saxagliptin.

Metabolism: The metabolism of saxagliptin is primarily mediated by cytochrome P450 3A4/5 (CYP3A4/5). The major metabolite of saxagliptin is also a selective, reversible, competitive DPP-4 inhibitor, half as potent as saxagliptin.

Elimination: Saxagliptin is eliminated by both renal and hepatic pathways. Following a single 50 mg dose of ¹⁴C-saxagliptin, 24%, 36%, and 75% of the dose was excreted in the urine as saxagliptin, its major metabolite, and total radioactivity, respectively. The average renal clearance of saxagliptin (~230 mL/min) was greater than the average estimated glomerular filtration rate (~120 mL/min), suggesting some active renal excretion. For the major metabolite, renal clearance values were comparable to estimated glomerular filtration rate. A total of 22% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in feces representing the fraction of the saxagliptin dose excreted in bile and/or unabsorbed drug from the gastrointestinal tract.

Special Populations and Conditions

• Pediatrics: Pharmacokinetics in the pediatric population have not been studied. Health Canada has not authorized an indication for pediatric use.
• Geriatrics: No dosage adjustment is necessary based on age alone. Elderly subjects (65-80 years) had 23% and 59% higher geometric mean C_max and geometric mean AUC values, respectively, for parent saxagliptin than young subjects (18-40 years). Differences in major metabolite pharmacokinetics between elderly and young subjects generally reflected the differences observed in parent saxagliptin pharmacokinetics. The difference between the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin and the major metabolite in young and elderly subjects is likely to be due to multiple factors including declining renal function and metabolic capacity with increasing age.
• Sex: No dosage adjustment is necessary based on gender. There were no differences observed in saxagliptin pharmacokinetics between males and females. Compared to males, females had approximately 25% higher exposure values for the major metabolite than males, but the clinical relevance of this difference is unknown.
• Ethnic Origin: No dosage adjustment is necessary based on race. An exposure modeling analysis compared the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin and its major metabolite in 309 white subjects with 105 non-white subjects (consisting of 6 race groups). No significant difference in the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin and its major metabolite were detected between these two populations.
• Hepatic Insufficiency: In subjects with hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C), mean C_max and AUC of saxagliptin were up to 8% and 77% higher, respectively, compared to healthy matched controls following administration of a single 10 mg dose of saxagliptin. The corresponding C_max and AUC of the major metabolite were up to 59% and 33% lower, respectively, compared to healthy matched controls. Use in moderate to severe hepatic impairment is not recommended.

• Renal Insufficiency: A single-dose, open-label study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of saxagliptin (10 mg dose) in subjects with varying degrees of chronic renal impairment compared to subjects with normal renal function.

  In subjects with approximately eGFR ≥45 mL/min/1.73 m² by MDRD eGFR equation, the increases of the AUC values of saxagliptin and its major metabolite were not clinically relevant. Dosage adjustment in these patients is not recommended.

  In subjects with renal impairment with approximately eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m², the AUC values of saxagliptin and its major metabolite were more than 2.1- and 4.5-fold higher, respectively, than AUC values in subjects with normal renal function. The dose of saxagliptin tablets should be reduced to 2.5 mg once daily in patients with renal impairment with approximately eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m².

• Obesity: No dosage adjustment is recommended based on body mass index (BMI).
• Storage, Stability, and Disposal

Store at room temperature 15°C - 30°C.

Keep in a safe place out of reach and sight of children and pets. Unused medication should not be disposed of down the drain or in household garbage.

Part 2: Scientific Information

13. Pharmaceutical Information

Drug Substance

Non-proprietary name of the drug substance: saxagliptin hydrochloride

Chemical name: (1S,3S,5S)-2-[(2S)-2-Amino-2-(3-hydroxytricyclo[3.3.1.1^3,7]dec-1-yl)acetyl]-2-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-3-carbonitrile hydrochloride

or

(1S,3S,5S)-2-[(2S)-2-Amino-2-(3-hydroxyadamantan-1-yl)acetyl]-2-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-3-carbonitrile hydrochloride

Molecular formula and molecular mass: C₁₈H₂₅N₃O₂·HCl and 351.87 g/mol

Structural formula:

Physicochemical properties: White to off-white powder (for Saxagliptin HCl with mannitol Coprecipitate 20%). Saxagliptin HCl with Mannitol Coprecipitate 20% is known to be soluble in water, dimethyl formamide and dimethyl sulfoxide; and slightly soluble in methanol.

pKa = 7.3.

pH- 4.34 for a 1% w/v aqueous solution,

4.57 for a 1% w/v aqueous solution of saxagliptin HCl with Mannitol Coprecipitate 20%

14. Clinical Trials

14.1. Clinical Trial by Indication

Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin

Table 7: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in Add-on Combination Therapy with Metformin

Study results

A total of 743 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 24-week duration, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin tablets in combination with metformin in patients with inadequate glycemic control (A1C ≥ 7% and ≤ 10%) on metformin alone. Patients were required to be on a stable dose of metformin (1500 mg to 2550 mg daily) for at least 8 weeks to be enrolled in this study.

Patients who met eligibility criteria were enrolled in a single-blind, two-week, dietary and exercise placebo lead-in period during which patients received metformin at their pre-study dose, up to 2500 mg daily for the duration of the study. Following the lead-in period, eligible patients were randomized to 2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg of saxagliptin tablets or placebo in addition to their current dose of open-label metformin. Patients who failed to meet specific glycemic goals during the study were treated with pioglitazone rescue therapy, added on to placebo or saxagliptin tablets plus metformin. Dose titrations of saxagliptin tablets and metformin were not allowed in this study.

In combination with metformin, saxagliptin tablets 5 mg provided significant improvements in A1C, FPG, and PPG compared with the placebo plus metformin group (Table 8).

Table 8: Glycemic Parameters at Week 24 in a Placebo-Controlled Study of saxagliptin in Combination with Metformin^§

^§Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study prior to pioglitazone rescue therapy.

^±Least squares mean adjusted for baseline value.

^ap-value <0.0001 compared to placebo

The mean percent change from baseline in A1C over the 24-week period is shown in Figure 1. The proportion of patients achieving A1C <7% (regardless of baseline value) was significantly greater in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin treatment (43.5%) groups compared with the placebo plus metformin group (16.6%). Significant reductions in 2-hour PPG level following standard oral glucose tolerance test were observed in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin treatment group (-3.2 mmol/L) compared with -1.0 mmol/L in the placebo plus metformin group. The proportion of patients who discontinued for lack of glycemic control or who were rescued for meeting prespecified glycemic criteria was higher in the placebo plus metformin group (27%) than in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin group (13%). Higher baseline A1C was associated with a greater adjusted mean change from baseline in A1C with saxagliptin tablets 5 mg. The effect of saxagliptin tablets on lipid endpoints in this study was similar to placebo. Similar changes in body weight were observed in patients who received saxagliptin tablets and placebo therapy (-0.9 kg and -0.9 kg, respectively).

Figure 1: Mean Change from Baseline in A1C in a Placebo-Controlled Study of saxagliptin in Combination with Metformin^*

*Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study prior to pioglitazone rescue therapy. Mean change from baseline (LOCF).

Controlled Long-Term Study Extension

Patients who completed all visits during the initial 24-week study period without need for hyperglycemia rescue therapy were eligible to enter a controlled double blind long-term study extension. Of the patients that started the 24-week treatment, 162 (84.8%) and 149 (83.2%) patients were taking saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin and placebo plus metformin respectively. Patients who received saxagliptin tablets in the initial 24-week study period maintained the same dose of saxagliptin tablets in the long-term extension. Treatment with saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin was associated with a greater reduction in A1C than in the placebo plus metformin group, and the effect relative to placebo was sustained at Week 50 and Week 102 compared to placebo. The A1C change for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin (n=100 observed, n=187 LOCF) compared with placebo plus metformin (n=59 observed, n=175 LOCF) was -0.7% at Week 50. The A1C change for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus metformin (n=31 observed, n=184 LOCF) compared with placebo plus metformin (n=15 observed, n=172 LOCF) was -0.7% at Week 102.

Add-On Combination Therapy with a Sulfonylurea

Table 9: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in Add-On Combination Therapy with a Sulfonylurea

Study results

A total of 768 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 24-weeks duration, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin tablets in combination with sulfonylurea (SU) in patients with inadequate glycemic control at enrollment (A1C ≥ 7.5% to ≤ 10%) on a submaximal dose of SU alone. Patients were required to be on a submaximal dose of SU for 2 months or greater to be enrolled in this study. In this study, saxagliptin tablets in combination with a fixed, intermediate dose of SU was compared to titration to a higher dose of SU.

Patients who met eligibility criteria were enrolled in a single-blind, 4-week, dietary and exercise lead-in period and placed on glyburide 7.5 mg once daily. Following the lead-in period, eligible patients with A1C ≥ 7% to ≤ 10% were randomized to either 2.5 mg or 5 mg of saxagliptin tablets plus 7.5 mg glyburide, or placebo plus a 10 mg total daily dose of glyburide. Patients who received placebo were eligible to have glyburide up-titrated to a total daily dose of 15 mg. Up titration of glyburide was not allowed in patients who received saxagliptin tablets 2.5 or 5 mg. Glyburide could be down-titrated in any treatment group once during the 24-week study period due to hypoglycemia as deemed necessary by the investigator. Approximately 92% of patients in the placebo plus glyburide group were up-titrated to a final total daily dose of 15 mg during the study period. Patients who failed to meet specific glycemic goals during the study were treated with metformin rescue, added on to the saxagliptin tablets plus glyburide or the placebo plus up-titrated glyburide group. Dose titration of saxagliptin tablets was not permitted during the study.

In combination with glyburide, saxagliptin tablets 5 mg provided significant improvements in A1C, FPG, and PPG compared with the placebo plus up-titrated glyburide group (Table 10). The mean percent change from baseline in A1C over the 24-week period is shown in Figure 2. The proportion of patients achieving A1C <7.0% (regardless of baseline value) was significantly greater in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide treatment group (22.8%) compared with the placebo plus up-titrated glyburide group (9.1%). Significant reductions in 2 hour PPG level following standard oral glucose tolerance test were observed in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide treatment group (-1.9 mmol/L) compared with 0.4 mmol/L in the placebo plus up-titrated glyburide group. The proportion of patients who discontinued for lack of glycemic control or who were rescued for meeting prespecified glycemic criteria was higher in the placebo plus up-titrated glyburide group (30%) than in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide group (17%). Higher baseline A1C was associated with a greater adjusted mean change from baseline in A1C with saxagliptin tablets 5 mg. The effect of saxagliptin tablets on lipid endpoints in this study was similar to placebo. Small increases in body weight were seen in patients treated with APO-SAXAGLIPTIN 5 mg plus glyburide and with placebo plus up-titrated glyburide (0.8 kg versus 0.3 kg, p=0.012).

Table 10: Glycemic Parameters at Week 24 in a Placebo-Controlled Study of saxagliptin in Combination with Glyburide^§

§ Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study prior to metformin rescue therapy.

± Least squares mean adjusted for baseline value.

a p-value <0.0001 compared to placebo + up-titrated glyburide

b p-value=0.0020 compared to placebo + up-titrated glyburide

Figure 2: Mean Change from Baseline in A1C in a Placebo-Controlled Study of saxagliptin in Combination with Glyburide^*

• Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study prior to metformin rescue therapy. Mean change from baseline (LOCF).

Controlled Long-Term Study Extension

Patients who were rescued (based on predefined glucose levels) during the initial 24-week study period as well as those who completed all visits during the initial 24-week study period without the need for rescue therapy were eligible to enter a controlled double blind long-term study extension. Of the patients that started the 24-week treatment, 227 (89.7%) and 235 (88%) patients were taking saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide and placebo plus up-titrated glyburide respectively. Patients who received saxagliptin tablets in the initial 24-week study period maintained the same dose of saxagliptin tablets in the long-term extension. The A1C change for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg plus glyburide (n=99 observed, n=243 LOCF) compared with placebo plus up-titrated glyburide (n=61 observed, n=253 LOCF) was -0.6% at Week 50.

Add-On Combination Therapy with Insulin (with or without Metformin)

Table 11: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in Add-On Combination Therapy with Insulin (with or without Metformin)

Study results

A total of 455 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 24-week duration to evaluate the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin tablets in combination with insulin in patients with inadequate glycemic control (A1C ≥7.5% and ≤11%) on insulin alone (n=141) or on insulin in combination with a stable dose of metformin (n=314). Patients were required to be on a stable dose of insulin (≥30 units to ≤150 units daily) with ≤20% variation in total daily dose for ≥8 weeks prior to screening with or without metformin. Patients were on intermediate- or long-acting (basal) insulin or premixed insulin. Patients using short-acting insulins were excluded unless the short-acting insulin was administered as part of a premixed insulin.

Patients who met eligibility criteria were enrolled in a single-blind, four-week, dietary and exercise placebo lead-in period during which patients received insulin (and metformin, if applicable) at their prestudy dose(s). Following the lead-in period, eligible patients were randomized to saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo in addition to continuing their current dose of insulin (and metformin, if applicable). Patients maintained a stable dose of insulin when possible. Patients who failed to meet specific glycemic goals or who increased their insulin dose by >20% were rescued and subsequently switched to a flexible insulin dose regimen. Dose titrations of saxagliptin tablets and metformin (if applicable) were not allowed in this study.

Saxagliptin tablets 5 mg add-on to insulin with or without metformin provided significant improvements in A1C and PPG compared with placebo add-on to insulin with or without metformin (Table 12). Similar A1C reductions versus placebo were achieved for patients using saxagliptin tablets 5 mg add-on to insulin alone and saxagliptin 5 mg add-on to insulin in combination with metformin (-0.4% and -0.4%, respectively). The proportion of patients who discontinued for lack of glycemic control or who were rescued was 23% in the saxagliptin tablets5 mg add-on to insulin group and 32% in the placebo add-on to insulin group. The mean daily insulin dose at baseline was 53 units in patients treated with saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and 55 units in patients treated with placebo. The mean change from baseline in daily dose of insulin was an increase of 2 units for the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg group and 5 units for the placebo group.

Table 12: Glycemic Parameters at Week 24 in a Placebo-Controlled Trial of saxagliptin as Add-On Combination Therapy with Insulin*

* Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study or last observation prior to insulin rescue therapy for patients needing rescue. Mean Total Daily Dose of Insulin: Intent-to-treat population using last observation on study.

† Least squares mean adjusted for baseline value and metformin use at baseline.

‡ p-value <0.0001 compared to placebo + insulin

§ Significance not tested

p-value = 0.0016 compared to placebo + insulin

# Not statistically significant.

Controlled Long-Term Study Extension

Following completion of the 24-week short-term treatment period, patients were eligible to enter a controlled double blind long-term treatment period. Patients continued to take the same blinded study medication that they were assigned during the short-term treatment period (saxagliptin tablets 5 mg or placebo added on to insulin with or without metformin). During the long-term treatment extension, changes in both the dose and type of insulin were allowed. Of the patients that continued into the long-term treatment period, 268 (88.2% of randomized) patients and 134 (88.7% of randomized) patients were taking saxagliptin tablets 5 mg and placebo plus insulin with or without metformin, respectively. Results from the extension period demonstrated that reductions from baseline A1C seen in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg add-on to insulin group compared with the placebo add-on to insulin group were sustained to Week 52; the A1C change for saxagliptin tablets 5 mg (n=244 observed) compared with placebo (n=124 observed) was -0.4% at Week 52. Results were similar for subjects using metformin and not using metformin at baseline. Increases from baseline in mean total daily dose of insulin (MTDDI) were seen in both treatment groups through Week 52, with a numerically smaller increase in the saxagliptin tablets 5 mg group (5 units saxagliptin tablets versus 6 units Placebo).

Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin and a Sulfonylurea

Table 13: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin and a Sulfonylurea

Study results

A total of 257 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this 24-week, randomized, double- blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin tablets in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea in patients with inadequate glycemic control (A1C ≥ 7% and ≤ 10%) on a stable combined dose of metformin ( ≥ 1500 mg) and sulfonylurea ( ≥ 50% of the maximum recommended dose) for at least eight weeks prior to enrolment.

Patients who met eligibility criteria were entered in a 2-week enrolment period to allow assessment of inclusion/exclusion criteria. Following the 2-week enrolment period, eligible patients were randomized to either double-blind saxagliptin tablets (5 mg once daily) or double- blind matching placebo for 24 weeks. During the 24-week double-blind treatment period, patients continued metformin and sulfonylurea at the same constant dose ascertained during enrolment. Sulfonylurea could be down-titrated once in the case of a major hypoglycemic event or recurring minor hypoglycemic events. In the absence of hypoglycemia, titration (up or down) of study medication during the treatment period was prohibited.

Saxagliptin tablets, in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea, provided significant improvements in A1C and PPG compared with placebo in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea (Table 14).

Table 14: Glycemic Parameters at Week 24 in a Placebo-Controlled Trial of saxagliptin as Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin and a Sulfonylurea*

• Intent-to-treat population using last observation prior to discontinuation.

† Least squares mean adjusted for baseline value.

‡ p-value <0.0001 compared to placebo + metformin and a sulfonylurea

§ Significance not tested.

¶ p-value = 0.0301 compared to placebo + metformin and a sulfonylurea

# Not statistically significant.

Patients with Renal Impairment

A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to evaluate the treatment effect of saxagliptin 2.5 mg once daily compared with placebo in 170 patients with type 2 diabetes and renal impairment (85 patients on saxagliptin: moderate [n=48], severe [n=18]; or ESRD [n=19] and 85 patients on placebo). In this study, 98.2% of the patients entered the study on and continued antihyperglycemic medications (insulin and/or oral antihyperglycemic drug) other than the study drug (75.3% on insulin and 31.2% on oral antihyperglycemic drug; some received both).

Treatment with saxagliptin 2.5 mg provided significant improvement in A1C versus placebo (mean reduction from baseline at Week 12 of -0.9% for the saxagliptin group and -0.4% for the placebo group, p=0.007). Improvements in A1C following treatment with saxagliptin 2.5 mg were sustained up to Week 52, however the number of patients who completed 52 weeks without modification of other antihyperglycemic medications was low (26 subjects in the saxagliptin group versus 34 subjects in the placebo group).

There was no adverse effect on renal function at Week 12 or Week 52, consistent with experience in patients with normal renal function in clinical trials. The safety results and profile of saxagliptin throughout the study were consistent with those previously observed in clinical trials.

14.2. Comparative Bioavailability Studies

A randomized, single-dose, two-way crossover comparative bioavailability study of APO-SAXAGLIPTIN 5 mg tablets (Apotex Inc.) and ONGLYZA^® 5 mg tablets (AstraZeneca Canada Inc.). was conducted in healthy male subjects under fasting conditions. Comparative bioavailability data from 24 subjects that were included in the statistical analysis are presented in the following table.

SUMMARY TABLE OF THE COMPARATIVE BIOAVAILABILITY DATA

16. Non-Clinical Toxicology

General Toxicology

Acute Toxicity: Saxagliptin was observed to be well tolerated at single doses up to 2000 mg/kg in mice and rats and 25 mg/kg in cynomolgus monkeys. In rodents, 4000 mg/kg resulted in transient decreases in body-weight gain and activity and/or lethality. In monkeys, overt toxicity and lethality were observed at 50 mg/kg.

Chronic Toxicity: The potential toxicity of saxagliptin was evaluated in a number of repeat-dose studies in mice, rats, dogs and monkeys. Saxagliptin administered to rats for 6 months at doses of 2, 20 and 100 mg/kg/day was well tolerated, causing only at the high dose, minimal splenic lymphoid hyperplasia and pulmonary histiocytosis. The no-observed-adverse-effect-level (20 mg/kg/day) was 36 times (males) and 78 times (females) the human exposure based on the recommended human dose of 5 mg/day (RHD). In dogs, saxagliptin administered orally at 5 and 10 mg/kg/day for 12 months caused toxicity in the intestinal tract, as evidenced by bloody and mucoid feces. The no-observed-adverse-effect-level was 1 mg/kg/day, 4 times the RHD. In monkeys, major target organ changes included skin lesions (scabs, erosions, and ulceration), lymphoid hyperplasia (primarily spleen and bone marrow) and multi-tissue mononuclear-cell infiltrates. Skin healing during the dosing period was observed with recovery of both skin and microscopic changes following a drug-free recovery period. The AUCs at the no effect level for these changes were 1 to 3 times the RHD.

Carcinogenicity

Two-year carcinogenicity studies were conducted in mice and rats at oral doses of 50, 250, and 600 mg/kg/day and 25, 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively. Saxagliptin did not induce tumors in either mice or rats at the highest doses evaluated. The highest doses evaluated in mice were equivalent to approximately 900 (males) and 1210 (females) times the human exposure at the recommended human dose of 5 mg/day (RHD). In rats, AUC exposures were approximately 370 (males) and 2300 (females) times the RHD.

Genotoxicity

The mutagenic and clastogenic potential of saxagliptin was tested at high concentrations and exposures in a battery of genetic toxicity studies including an in vitro Ames bacterial assay, an in vitro cytogenetics assay in primary human lymphocytes, an in vivo oral micronucleus assay in rats, an in vivo oral DNA repair study in rats, and an oral in vivo/in vitro cytogenetics study in rat peripheral blood lymphocytes. Saxagliptin was not mutagenic or clastogenic based on the combined outcomes of these studies. The major metabolite was not mutagenic in an in vitro Ames bacterial assay.

Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology

In a rat fertility study, males were treated with oral gavage doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day for two weeks prior to mating, during mating, and up to scheduled termination (approximately four weeks total) and females were treated with oral gavage doses of 125, 300, and 750 mg/kg/day for two weeks prior to mating through gestation day 7. No adverse effects on fertility were observed at 200 mg/kg/day (males) or 125 mg/kg/day (females) resulting in respective exposures (AUC) of approximately 630 (males) and 805 (females) times human exposure at the RHD. At higher, maternally toxic doses (300 and 750 mg/kg/day), increased fetal resorptions were observed (approximately 2150 and 6375 times the RHD). Additional effects on estrous cycling, fertility, ovulation, and implantation were observed at 750 mg/kg (approximately 6375 times the RHD).

Saxagliptin was not teratogenic at any dose evaluated in rats or rabbits. At high doses in rats, saxagliptin caused a minor and reversible developmental delay in ossification of the fetal pelvis at ≥ 240 mg/kg/day (≥ 1560 times the human exposure [AUC] at the RHD). Maternal toxicity and reduced fetal body weights were observed at 900 mg/kg/day (8290 times the RHD). In rabbits, the effects of saxagliptin were limited to minor skeletal variations observed only at maternally toxic doses (200 mg/kg/day, exposures 1420 times the RHD).

Saxagliptin administered to female rats from gestation day 6 to lactation day 20 resulted in decreased body weights in male and female offspring only at maternally toxic doses (≥ 250 mg/kg/day, exposures ≥ 1690 times the RHD). No functional or behavioral toxicity was observed in offspring of rats administered saxagliptin at any dose.

17. Supporting Product Monographs

1. 1. ONGLYZA, tablets, 2.5 mg and 5 mg, control number 294118, product monograph, AstraZeneca Canada Inc. (2025-06-24)