Product Monograph - Winrho Sdf (Ki Biopharma)
INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE
Pregnancy and Other Obstetric Conditions
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) is indicated for the prevention of Rh immunization in Rho (D) negative mothers not previously sensitized to the Rho (D) factor. WinRho SDF is recommended for prevention of Rh immunization of Rho (D) negative women at risk of developing Rh antibodies. Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) prevents the development of Rh antibodies in the Rho (D) negative and previously not sensitized mother carrying a Rho (D) positive fetus, thus preventing the occurrence of hemolytic disease in the fetus or the newborn.
The administration of WinRho SDF to women satisfying the above conditions should be done at about 28-weeks gestation when the child's father is either Rho (D) positive or unknown.
WinRho SDF should be administered within 72 hours after delivery if the baby is Rho (D) positive or unknown.
WinRho SDF administration is also recommended in these same women within 72 hours after spontaneous or induced abortion, amniocentesis, chorion villus sampling, ruptured tubal pregnancy, abdominal trauma or transplacental hemorrhage, unless the blood type of the fetus or father are confirmed to be Rho (D) negative. It should be administered as soon as possible in the case of maternal bleeding due to threatened abortion.
Transfusion
WinRho SDF is recommended to prevent alloimmunization in Rho (D) negative female children and female adults in their child-bearing years transfused with Rho (D) positive RBCs or blood components with Rho (D) positive RBCs. Treatment should only then be carried out (without preceding exchange transfusion), if the transfused Rho (D) positive blood represents less than 20% of the total circulating red cells.
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
WinRho SDF is recommended in the treatment of destructive thrombocytopenia of an immune etiology in situations where platelet counts must be increased to control bleeding. Clinical studies have shown that the peak platelet counts occur about seven days after IV anti-Rho (D) treatment. The effect is not curative but is transient; platelet counts are usually elevated from several days to several weeks. For individuals with chronic ITP, a maintenance dosage is recommended with the dosage schedule determined on an individual basis.
WinRho SDF is recommended in clinical situations requiring an increase in platelet count to prevent excessive hemorrhage for the treatment of non-splenectomized Rho (D) positive 1) children with chronic or acute ITP, 2) adults with chronic ITP, or 3) children and adults with ITP secondary to HIV infection. The safety and efficacy of WinRho have not been evaluated in clinical trials for patients with non-ITP causes of thrombocytopenia or in previously splenectomized patients.
Geriatrics (greater than 65 years of age): Differences in response to treatment in those aged 65 or over as compared to younger subjects cannot be determined due to a limited number of study subjects aged 65 or over enrolled in clinical studies with WinRho SDF. Caution should be used when determining the dose for an elderly patient for the treatment of ITP and should take into account the increased frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy associated with advanced age. Doses starting at the low end of the dosing range should be considered when administering WinRho SDF to those aged 65 or older.
Pediatrics (less than 16 years of age): WinRho SDF has been evaluated in children for the treatment of chronic or acute ITP and in children with ITP secondary to HIV infection. The dosing recommendation in the treatment of children with ITP is the same as in adults (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
WinRho SDF should not be administered to patients:
- Who are Rho (D) positive
- Specifically, Rho (D) negative women who are Rh immunized as evidenced by standard Rh antibody screening tests
- With a history of anaphylactic or other severe systemic reaction to this drug or other human immune globulins
- Who are IgA deficient
- Who have antibodies to IgA or a history of IgA hypersensitivity
- Who are hypersensitive to this drug or to any ingredient in the formulation or component of the container. For a complete listing, see DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING.
Treatment of ITP
WinRho SDF should not be administered to patients:
- Who are Rho (D) negative
- Who are splenectomised
- With ITP secondary to other conditions including Leukemia, lymphoma, or active viral infections with EBV or HCV
- Who are elderly with underlying cardiac, renal or hepatic co-morbidities predisposing to complications of acute hemolytic reaction (AHR)
- With evidence of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (Evan’s Syndrome), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or antiphospholipid antibody syndrome
- With a history of anaphylactic or other severe systemic reaction to this drug or other human immune globulins
- Who are IgA deficient
- Who have antibodies to IgA or a history of IgA hypersensitivity
- Who are hypersensitive to this drug or to any ingredient in the formulation or component of the container. For a complete listing, see DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Serious Warnings and Precautions WinRho SDF, prepared from pools of human plasma, may contain infectious agents such as viruses. (see General below) Serious adverse events of intravascular hemolysis (IVH) and its complications have been reported following treatment with WinRho SDF (See Hemolysis below). A disproportionate number of IVH cases have been reported in patients with ITP secondary to hematological malignancies such as leukemia or lymphoma, or active viral infections with HCV and EBV. Some of these cases resulted in fatal outcome. Clinically compromising hemolytic anemia has the potential of precipitating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and hemoglobinuria or hemoglobinemia may precipitate renal failure or DIC in susceptible patients. Patients of advanced age (greater than 65 years) with underlying cardiac, renal or hepatic co- morbidities are at increased risk of developing serious renal, hepatic or cardiovascular complications if they develop IVH. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Special Populations, Geriatrics.) Physicians are advised that if a patient has evidence of hemolysis (reticulocytosis greater than 3%) or is at high risk for hemolysis (positive DAT not attributed to previous immune globulin administration), alternate therapies must be used. Physicians should discuss the risks and benefits of WinRho SDF and alert patients who are being treated for ITP, about the signs and/or symptoms. Hypersensitivity reactions can occur in very rare cases of IgA deficiency or hypersensitivity to human globulin. (See Hypersensitivity below) WinRho SDF contains maltose. Maltose in IGIV products has been shown to give falsely high blood glucose levels in certain types of blood glucose testing systems. (See Monitoring and Laboratory Tests below) |
General
Proper care should be taken when calculating the dose of WinRho SDF to be administered. A confusion between International Units and micrograms (mcg) of product, or between pounds (lbs) and kilograms (kg) for the patient’s body weight could result in either an overdose that could lead to a severe hemolytic reaction (See OVERDOSAGE section) or a dose too low to be effective.
Products made from human plasma may contain infectious agents, such as viruses, that can cause disease. The risk that such products will transmit an infectious agent has been reduced by screening plasma donors for prior exposure to certain viruses, by testing for the presence of certain current virus infections, and by inactivating and/or removing certain viruses. The manufacturing process includes both a 20N virus filter that effectively removes lipid-enveloped and non-enveloped viruses based on size and a solvent/detergent treatment step that effectively inactivates lipid-enveloped viruses by irreversibly destroying the lipid coat.4 These two processes are designed to increase product safety by reducing the risk of viral transmission of several viruses including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, despite these measures, such products can still potentially transmit disease. The product may theoretically contain the Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease (CJD) causing agent or Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease variant (vCJD) agents. There is also the possibility that unknown infectious agents may be present in such products. Individuals who receive infusions of blood or plasma products may develop signs and/or symptoms of some viral infections. All infections thought to have been possibly transmitted by this product should be reported by the physician or other health care provider to KI BioPharma LLC at 1-866-916-0077.
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
Following administration of WinRho SDF for prophylaxis of Rh immunization, patients should be kept under observation for at least 20 minutes for monitoring of potential adverse effects. This product should be administered under the supervision of a qualified health professional that is experienced in the use of passive immunizing agents and in the management of non-sensitized Rho (D) negative individuals who receive Rho (D) positive RBCs. Appropriate management of therapy and complications is only possible when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available.
A large fetomaternal hemorrhage late in pregnancy or following delivery may cause a weak mixed field positive Dµ test result. An individual with a positive Dµ test result should be screened for a large fetomaternal hemorrhage and the WinRho SDF (Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human)) dose adjusted accordingly.
Treatment of ITP
Following administration of WinRho SDF (IV) for ITP treatment, patients should be kept under observation for at least eight hours for monitoring of potential adverse effects (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Hemolysis). This product should be administered under the supervision of a qualified health professional that is experienced in the use of passive immunizing agents and patients diagnosed with ITP. Appropriate management of therapy and complications is only possible when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available.
WinRho SDF must be administered via the intravenous route for the treatment of ITP as its efficacy has not been established by the intramuscular or subcutaneous routes.
WinRho SDF should not be administered to Rho (D) negative or splenectomized individuals as its efficacy in these patients has not been demonstrated.
Serious adverse events of IVH have been reported following treatment of ITP patients with WinRho
SDF. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS box and Hemolysis).
Thromboembolic Events
Thrombosis may occur in patients receiving immune globulin treatment. Patients at risk may include those with a history of cardiovascular risk factors, advanced age, impaired cardiac output, hypercoagulable disorders, prolonged periods of immobilization, history of arterial or venous thrombosis, estrogen use, indwelling central vascular catheters, and/or known or suspected hyperviscosity. Thrombosis may occur in the absence of known risk factors. Although the risk of thrombotic adverse events following WinRho SDF is extremely low, care should be taken in patients at risk for hyperviscosity, including those with cryoglobulins, fasting chylomicronemia/markedly high triacylglycerols (triglycerides), or monoclonal gammopathies.
There is also clinical evidence of an association between intravenous immunoglobulin product administration and thromboembolic events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, pulmonary embolism and deep vein thromboses, which in the case of WinRho SDF, may be related to hemolysis in at risk patients. Caution should be exercised in prescribing WinRho SDF in obese patients and in patients with pre-existing risk factors for thrombotic events (such as age over 65, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and a history of vascular disease including ischemic disorders or thrombotic episodes, patients with acquired or inherited thrombophilic disorders, patients with prolonged periods of immobilisation, or severely hypovolemic patients).
Hemolysis
Although the mechanism of action of WinRho SDF in the treatment of ITP is not completely understood, it is postulated that anti-D binds to the Rho (D) RBC resulting in formation of antibody-coated RBC complexes. Immune-mediated clearance of the antibody-coated RBC complexes would spare the antibody-coated platelets because of the preferential destruction of antibody-coated RBC complexes by the macrophages located in the reticuloendothelial system.8,9,10 The side effect of this action is a decrease in hemoglobin levels (extravascular hemolysis). The pooled data from ITP clinical studies demonstrated a maximum decrease from baseline in hemoglobin levels of 1.2 g/dL within 7 days after administration of WinRho SDF.
Among patients treated for ITP, there have been post marketing reports of signs and symptoms consistent with intravascular hemolysis (IVH)11 that included back pain, shaking chills, fever and discoloured urine occurring, in most cases, within four hours of administration. The expected maximum decrease in hemoglobin levels (extravascular hemolysis) following WinRho SDF is usually less than 3.0 g/dL and occurs within 7-14 days after administration.12 The decrease in hemoglobin levels in patients experiencing intravascular hemolysis is typically greater than or equal to 3.0 g/dL and usually occurs within 72 hours following WinRho SDF administration.11,13 Potentially serious complications of intravascular hemolysis that have also been reported include clinically compromising anemia, acute renal insufficiency or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) that have, in some cases, been fatal.13 The extent of risk of intravascular hemolysis and its complications is not known but is reported to be uncommon (greater than 0.1%), especially for DIC, which occurs in less than one in ten thousand cases.14 In the rare cases reported following anti-D administration, there was no discernible contribution of gender, concomitantly administered blood/blood products, or previous treatment with WinRho SDF to the development of intravascular hemolysis and its complications. (See POST MARKET ADVERSE REACTIONS) A disproportionate number of IVH cases have been reported in patients with ITP secondary to hematological malignancies such as leukemia or lymphoma, as well as active viral infections with HCV and EBV. Some of these cases resulted in fatal outcome.
Clinically compromising hemolytic anemia has the potential of precipitating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and IVH may precipitate renal failure or DIC in susceptible patients. In patients with predisposing conditions, renal and cardiovascular complications of IVH may occur more frequently. Patients of advanced age (age over 65) with co-morbid conditions, such as heart, lung, liver or kidney disease, may be at an increased risk of developing sequelae from acute hemolytic reactions. (See Special Populations: Geriatrics .) Physicians are advised that if a patient has evidence of hemolysis (reticulocytosis greater than 3%) or is at high risk for hemolysis (positive DAT not attributed to previous immune globulin administration), alternate therapies must be used.
Following administration of WinRho SDF, Rho (D) positive ITP patients should be monitored for signs and/or symptoms of intravascular hemolysis and its complications, which include:
- Hemoglobinuria or Hemoglobinemia
- Pallor
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Oliguria or anuria
- Edema
- Increased bruising and prolongation of bleeding time and clotting time which may be difficult to detect in the ITP population
For those patients eligible to receive WinRho SDF for the treatment of ITP, physicians should discuss the risks and benefits of WinRho SDF and alert the patients about the signs and symptoms associated with serious adverse events reported through post-marketing surveillance (see PART III: PATIENT MEDICATION INFORMATION).
Closely monitor patients treated with WinRho SDF for ITP in a healthcare setting for at least eight hours after administration. A dipstick urinalysis to monitor for hematuria and hemoglobinuria is to be performed at baseline and then after administration at 2 hours, 4 hours and prior to the end of the monitoring period. Alert patients and monitor the signs and symptoms of IVH including back pain, shaking chills, fever, and discolored urine or hematuria. Absence of these signs and/or symptoms of IVH within eight hours do not indicate IVH cannot occur subsequently. If signs and/or symptoms of IVH are present or suspected after WinRho SDF administration, post treatment laboratory tests should be performed including plasma hemoglobin, haptoglobin, LDH, and plasma bilirubin (direct and indirect).
Prior to discharge, patients should be instructed to self-monitor for these signs and symptoms of IVH over at least 72 hours, especially for discoloration of urine, and advised to seek medical attention immediately in the event that signs/symptoms of IVH occur following WinRho SDF administration.
Patients should be instructed to immediately report symptoms of back pain, discolored urine, decreased urine output, sudden weight gain, fluid retention/edema and/or shortness of breath to their physicians.
The diagnosis of a serious complication of intravascular hemolysis is dependent on laboratory testing. (See Monitoring and Laboratory Tests).
If patients are to be transfused, Rho (D) negative red blood cells (PRBCs) should be used so as not to exacerbate ongoing IVH. If the patient has a lower than normal hemoglobin level (less than 10 g/dL), a reduced dose of 125 to 200 international units/kg (25 to 40 mcg/kg) body weight should be given to minimize the risk of increasing the severity of anemia in the patient. In patients with a hemoglobin level that is less than 8 g/dL, alternative therapies should be used due to the risk of increasing the severity of the anemia. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Treatment of ITP)
Acute Renal Dysfunction/Failure
Acute renal dysfunction/failure, osmotic nephropathy, acute tubular necrosis, proximal tubular nephropathy, and death may occur in patients receiving immune globulin treatment, including WinRho SDF.15,16 Although these reports of renal dysfunction and acute renal failure have been associated with the use of many licensed IGIV products, those that contained sucrose as a stabilizer and were administered at daily doses of 400 mg of sucrose (or greater) have accounted for a disproportionate share of the total number of reports. WinRho SDF does not contain sucrose as a stabilizer.
Renal failure after intravenous WinRho SDF administration may be related to hemoglobinuria (indicating IVH) in patients with pre-existing risk factors such as pre-existing renal insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, hypovolemia, overweight, sepsis, concomitant nephrotoxic medicinal products or age over 65.
Assess renal function, including measurement of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine before the initial infusion of WinRho SDF and at appropriate intervals thereafter for those patients at risk of developing renal dysfunction/failure.
Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI)
There have been rare reports of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema [Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI)] in patients administered IGIV.17 TRALI is characterized by severe respiratory distress, pulmonary edema, hypoxemia, normal left ventricular function, and fever and typically occurs within 1 to 6 hours after transfusion. Patients with TRALI may be managed using oxygen therapy with adequate ventilatory support. The possibility of the rare occurrence of TRALI after WinRho SDF administration cannot be ruled out. Care should be taken in patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
WinRho SDF recipients should be monitored for pulmonary adverse reactions. If TRALI is suspected, appropriate tests should be performed for the presence of anti-HLA and anti- neutrophil antibodies in both the product and patient serum.
Hypersensitivity
Allergic reactions have been reported following WinRho SDF administration (See Adverse Drug Reaction Overview). WinRho SDF should be administered in a setting where appropriate equipment, medication and personnel trained in the management of hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis and shock are available. In the event of an allergic or anaphylactoid reaction to WinRho SDF, a subcutaneous injection of epinephrine hydrochloride should be instituted followed by intravenous administration of hydrocortisone if necessary.
WinRho SDF contains trace quantities of IgA (less than or equal to 40 mcg/mL). Although WinRho SDF has been used successfully to treat selected IgA deficient individuals, the physician must weigh the potential benefit of treatment with WinRho SDF against the potential for hypersensitivity reactions. Individuals deficient in IgA have a potential for development of IgA antibodies and anaphylactic reactions after administration of blood components containing IgA; Burks et al. (1986) have reported that as little as 15 mcg IgA/mL of blood product has elicited an anaphylactic reaction in IgA deficient individuals.18 Individuals known to have had an anaphylactic or severe systemic reaction to human globulin should not receive WinRho SDF or any other Immune Globulin (Human).
Patients should be informed of the early signs of hypersensitivity reaction including hives, generalized urticaria, chest tightness, wheezing, hypotension, and anaphylaxis.
Special Populations
Pregnant Women: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with WinRho SDF. Clinical use of WinRho in the prophylaxis of Rh immunization in pregnant women has not resulted in any fetal harm.19 WinRho SDF is not indicated for the treatment of ITP in pregnancy.
WinRho SDF should be given to a pregnant woman with ITP only if clearly needed based on a risk-benefit assessment.
Nursing Women: It is unknown if WinRho SDF is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, precaution should be exercised.
Pediatrics (less than 16 years of age): WinRho has been administered safely to children less than 16 years of age. The safety profile of WinRho in children is similar to adults.
Geriatrics (greater than 65 years of age): Reported clinical experience suggests that patients of advanced age (age over 65) with co-morbid conditions such as cardio-respiratory decompensation, hepatic failure or renal insufficiency/failure may be at an increased risk of developing sequelae if an acute haemolytic reactions such as IVH occurs. Patients receiving doses in excess of 300 international units/kg of WinRho SDF may also be at an increased risk of developing increased hemolysis. Most of the rare cases with fatal outcomes associated with IVH and its complications have occurred in patients of advanced age (age over 65) with co-morbid conditions.
In general, caution should be used when determining the dose for an elderly patient for the treatment of ITP. Dose selection should take into account the increased frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy associated with advanced age. Doses starting at the low end of the dosing range should be considered when administering WinRho SDF to those aged 65 or older.
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests
The liquid formulation of WinRho SDF contains maltose. Maltose in IGIV products has been shown to give falsely high blood glucose levels in certain types of blood glucose testing systems (for example, by systems based on glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinoline quinone (GDH-PQQ) or glucose-dye-oxidoreductase methods). Due to the potential for falsely elevated glucose readings, only testing systems that are glucose-specific should be used to test or monitor blood glucose levels in patients receiving maltose-containing parenteral products, including WinRho SDF.
The product information of the blood glucose testing system, including that of the test strips, should be carefully reviewed to determine if the system is appropriate for use with maltose- containing parenteral products. If any uncertainty exists, contact the manufacturer of the testing system to determine if the system is appropriate for use with maltose-containing parenteral products.
In addition to anti-D antibody, WinRho SDF contains trace amounts of anti-C, E, A, and B. These antibodies may be detected by laboratory screening tests.
The presence of passively administered anti-Rho (D) can lead to positive direct antiglobulin and indirect antiglobulin (Coombs’) test. Interpretation of direct and indirect antiglobulin tests must be made in the context of the patient’s underlying clinical condition and supporting laboratory data.
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
The presence of passively administered Rh antibody in maternal or fetal blood can lead to a positive direct antiglobulin (Coombs’) test.
Treatment of ITP
ITP patients presenting with signs and/or symptoms of intravascular hemolysis and its complications after anti-D administration should have confirmatory laboratory testing that may include, but is not limited to, CBC (i.e. hemogloblin, platelet counts), haptoglobin, plasma hemoglobin, urine dipstick and microscopic urinalysis, assessment of renal function (i.e. BUN, serum creatinine), liver function (i.e. LDH, direct and indirect bilirubin) and DIC specific tests such as D-dimer or Fibrin Degradation Products (FDP) or Fibrin Split Products (FSP).
ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most serious adverse reactions have been observed in patients receiving WinRho SDF for treatment of ITP. These include: intravascular hemolysis, clinically compromising anemia, acute renal insufficiency and DIC, leading in some cases to death. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).
Adverse Drug Reaction Overview
In addition to the adverse reactions described above, the following have been reported infrequently in clinical trials and/or post marketing experience, in patients treated for ITP and/or the prevention of Rh immunization, and are thought to be temporally associated with WinRho SDF use: asthenia, abdominal or back pain, hypotension, pallor, diarrhea, increased LDH, arthralgia, myalgia, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hypertension, hyperkinesia, somnolence, vasodilation, pruritus, rash and sweating.
As is the case with all drugs of this nature, there is a remote chance of an allergic or anaphylactoid reaction with WinRho SDF in individuals with hypersensitivity to blood products. An immediate reaction (anaphylaxis) is characterized by collapse, rapid pulse, shallow respiration, pallor, cyanosis, edema or generalized urticaria.
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
Reactions to Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) are rare in Rho (D) negative individuals. Discomfort and light swelling at the site of injection and slight elevation in temperature have been reported in a small number of cases.
Treatment of ITP
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), is administered to Rho (D) positive patients with ITP. Therefore, side effects related to the destruction of Rho (D) positive red blood cells, most notably decreased hemoglobin, can be expected.
Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions
Because clinical trials are conducted under very specific conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials may not reflect the rates observed in practice and should not be compared to the rates in the clinical trials of another drug. Adverse drug reaction information from clinical trials is useful for identifying drug-related adverse events and for approximating rates.
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
The safety of WinRho was evaluated in clinical trials (n= 2062) in pregnant Rho (D)-negative women whose baby’s father’s Rho (D) serotype was either positive or unknown. Only 1 adverse reaction was reported during the clinical studies. The adverse reaction was an anaphylactic type reaction due to a considerably large dose administered within a short time period (12 x 600 international units).
In a clinical study with 5 healthy Rho (D) negative males, Rho (D) positive fetal red cells were administered to volunteers by IV infusion and then 1 to 2 days later the fetal red cells were cleared by IV administration of 600 international units (120 mcg) WinRho SD. At 6 to 8 hours after administration of WinRho SD to these subjects, there was an elevation in mean levels of granulocytes from 4.25 to 7.88 x 109/L (p less than 0.01) and monocytes from 0.38 to 0.64 x 109/L (p less than 0.02). Levels of phagocytic leucocytes returned to pretreatment levels by 24 hours after WinRho SD treatment. This effect of WinRho SD is believed to result from the anti-Rho (D) mediated clearance of Rho (D) positive fetal red cells as it was not observed at much higher dosages of WinRho SD when no Rho (D) positive red cells were present in the circulation.
Treatment of ITP
The safety of WinRho was evaluated in clinical trials (n=161) in children and adults with acute and chronic ITP and adults and children with ITP secondary to HIV. Overall, 417 adverse events were reported by 91 patients (57%). The most common adverse events were headache (14% of the patients), fever (11% of the patients), and asthenia (11% of the patients). A total of 117 adverse drug reactions were reported by 46 patients (29%). Headache, chills, and fever were the most common related adverse events (Table 1). With respect to safety profile per administration, 60 of 848 (7%) of infusions in the clinical trials were associated with at least one adverse event that was considered to be related to the study medication. The most common adverse events were headache (19 infusions; 2%), chills (14 infusions; less than 2%), and fever (nine infusions; 1%). All are expected adverse events associated with immunoglobulin infusion.
Table 1: Adverse Drug Reactions in Patients with ITP Treated with WinRho with an Incidence greater than or equal to 5%
| Body System | Adverse Event | All Studies | Children | Adults | ||||
| # of Patients (%) | ||||||||
| All Body Systems | Overall | 46 (29) | 19 (26) | 27 (31) | ||||
| Body as a Whole | Overall | 40 (25) | 19 (26) | 21 (24) | ||||
| Asthenia | 6 (4) | 2 (3) | 4 (5) | |||||
| Chills | 13 (8) | 4 (5) | 9 (10) | |||||
| Fever | 9 (6) | 5 (7) | 4 (5) | |||||
| Headache | 18 (11) | 8 (11) | 10 (12) | |||||
| Infection | 4 (3) | 4 (5) | 0 (0) | |||||
| Nervous System | Overall | 9 (6) | 4 (5) | 5 (6) | ||||
| Dizziness | 6 (4) | 2 (3) | 4 (5) | |||||
Less common adverse drug reactions (less than 5%) include:
Body as a whole: abdominal pain, asthenia, back pain, infection, malaise, pain
Cardiovascular system: hypertension, palpitation
Digestive system: anorexia, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, gastrointestinal disorder, glossitis, ulcerative stomatitis, vomiting
Hematic and Lymphatic system: anemia, hypochromic anemia
Metabolic and nutritional system: weight gain
Musculoskeletal system: arthralgia
Nervous system: anxiety, dizziness, hypertonia, hypesthesia, somnolence, tremor
Respiratory system: asthma, dyspnea, pharyngitis, rhinitis
Skin and appendages: urticaria
The safety of WinRho was compared to high dose IGIV (2.0 g/kg), low dose IGIV (0.8 g/kg), and prednisone in children with acute ITP. The most common related adverse events in the WinRho group were chills, fever, and headache (Table 2) similar to the related adverse events reported in all ITP studies (Table 1). The most common related adverse events after high dose and low dose IGIV administrations were headache and vomiting and after prednisone administration was increased appetite.
Table 2: Adverse Drug Reactions with an Incidence greater than or equal to 5% in Children with Acute ITP
| Body System Preferred Term | High Dose IGIV (2.0 g/kg) N=35 | Low Dose IGIV (0.8 g/kg) N=34 | Prednisone (4.0 mg/kg/day) N=39 | WinRho (250 international units /kg IV) N=38 | ||||
| No. of Patients (%) | ||||||||
| All Body System | 21 (60%) | 14 (41%) | 15 (39%) | 10 (26%) | ||||
| Body as a Whole | 19 (54%) | 10 (29%) | 5 (13%) | 10 (26%) | ||||
| Abdominal Pain | 0 | 3 (9%) | 3 (8%) | 2 (5%) | ||||
| Chills | 5 (14%) | 1 (3%) | 0 | 3 (8%) | ||||
| Fever | 9 (26%) | 3 (9%) | 1 (3%) | 3 (8%) | ||||
| Headache | 12 (34%) | 8 (24%) | 2 (5%) | 3 (8%) | ||||
| Digestive System | 10 (29%) | 5 (15%) | 9 (23%) | 3 (8%) | ||||
| Anorexia | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 (5%) | ||||
| Diarrhea | 0 | 0 | 2 (5%) | 1 (3%) | ||||
| Dyspepsia | 0 | 0 | 2 (5%) | 0 | ||||
| Increased Appetite | 0 | 0 | 5 (13%) | 0 | ||||
| Vomiting | 10 (30%) | 5 (15%) | 3 (8%) | 1 (3%) | ||||
| Nervous System | 4 (11%) | 1 (3%) | 6 (15%) | 0 | ||||
| Emotional Liability | 0 | 0 | 3 (8%) | 0 | ||||
| Nervousness | 0 | 0 | 2 (5%) | 0 | ||||
| Tremor | 2 (6%) | 0 | 1 (3%) | 0 | ||||
| Respiratory System | 0 | 2 (6%) | 1(3%) | 2 (5%) | ||||
| Skin & Appendages | 1 (3%) | 0 | 2 (5%) | 0 | ||||
| Acne | 0 | 0 | 2 (5%) | 0 | ||||
Due to the proposed mechanism of action (i.e. Fc blockade, platelet sparing via anti-RBC antibodies), it is anticipated that administration of WinRho SDF to Rho (D)-positive patients will produce some degree of extravascular hemolysis. The mean decrease in hemoglobin within 7 days after WinRho SDF administration was 1.2 g/dL in all ITP studies. In a clinical study in normal healthy Rho (D)-positive subjects, the decrease in hemoglobin levels following WinRho SDF administration appeared to be dose-dependent. 12
In 4 clinical trials of patients treated with the recommended initial intravenous dose of 250 international units/kg (50 mcg/kg), the mean maximum decrease in hemoglobin was 1.70 g/dL
(range +0.40 to - 6.1 g/dL). At a reduced dose, ranging from 125 to 200 international units/kg (25 to 40 mcg/kg), the mean maximum decrease in hemoglobin was 0.81 g/dL (range +0.65 to -1.9 g/dL). Only 5 of 137 patients (3.7%) had a maximum decrease in hemoglobin of greater than 4 g/dL (range 4.2 to 6.1 g/dL). In most cases, the RBC destruction is believed to occur in the spleen. However, signs and symptoms consistent with IVH, including back pain, shaking chills, and/or hemoglobinuria, have been reported, occurring within minutes and up to a few days after WinRho SDF administration.
Post-Market Adverse Drug Reactions
In addition to the adverse events experienced by subjects during clinical trials, the following adverse events have been reported (spontaneous reporting) during the post-marketing use of WinRho SDF (Table 3). Since these events have been reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, the indication and causal relationship is not always known and the exact frequency rates cannot be precisely calculated; however, they have been rarely or very rarely reported. 14
Evaluation and interpretation of the post-marketing events is confounded by underlying diagnosis, concomitant medications, pre-existing conditions and inherent limitations of passive surveillance. Due to the complexity of the clinical reports and the minimal amount of pre- and post-WinRho SDF data provided, causation has not been described for the cases below.
In the post-marketing surveillance of WinRho SDF from March 1993 to March 2010 a total of 187 serious cases of suspected and confirmed cases of IVH were reported. Of the 187 serious cases, 54 cases were considered definite IVH (with evidences of hemoglobinuria and/or hemoglobinemia), 60 were probable IVH and 56 were possible IVH. The remaining reported cases were either unlikely IVH (n=11) or there was no additional clinical information available (n=6). Of the 54 serious Definite IVH cases reported, 23 were associated with acute onset or exacerbation of renal insufficiency, 11 cases with DIC, 13 cases with cardiovascular events, and 6 cases with respiratory distress syndrome. Seventeen (17) of the 54 serious IVH cases reported had fatal outcome. Approximately 76% of the patients with fatal outcomes were over 65 years of age and in 16 out of those 17 fatal cases (94%), the patients had history of serious underlying co- morbid diseases that are considered to have either induced or exacerbated pathological conditions leading to fatal outcomes.
The etiology of IVH following WinRho SDF administration is unknown. Risk factors associated with this adverse event include: active viral infections (including EBV or HCV), hematological malignancies (including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease or Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia), autoimmune disorders (SLE, antiphosholipid syndrome, and autoimmune hemolytic anemia), pre-treatment renal insufficiency, pre-treatment low haemoglobin levels (less than 10 g/dL), concomitantly administered PRBCs, or WinRho SDF dose in excess of 300 international units/kg. In patients with predisposing conditions and advanced age (greater than 65 years old) IVH occurrence, complication of IVH and the severity of its complications, including occurrence of death, are substantially higher than in patients less than 65 years of age.
Table 3: Reported Post-Marketing Adverse Drug Reactions
| Blood and Lymphatic | Intravascular haemolysis |
| Disseminated intravascular coagulation | |
| Haemoglobinemia | |
| Cardiac* | Cardiac failure |
| Myocardial infarction | |
| Tachycardia | |
| Gastrointestinal | Nausea |
| General | Chest pain |
| Fatigue | |
| Edema | |
| Pain | |
| Hepatobiliary | Jaundice |
| Immune System | Anaphylactic reaction/shock |
| Hypersensitivity | |
| Injection site reaction including induration, pruritis and/or swelling | |
| Musculoskeletal | Myalgia |
| Muscle spasm | |
| Pain in extremities | |
| Renal | Renal failure |
| Anuria | |
| Chromaturia | |
| Haematuria | |
| Haemoglobinuria | |
| Respiratory | Acute respiratory distress syndrome |
| Dyspnea | |
| Transfusion related acute lung injury | |
| Skin | Hyperhidrosis |
| Pruritus | |
| Rash |
* Most of the cases reporting cardiac events in association with the WinRho SDF administration presented other co-morbid conditions that might precipitate or exacerbate the cardiac events.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Serious Drug Interactions
- Live attenuated virus vaccines: immune globulin administration may impair the efficacy of live attenuated virus vaccines for a period of 3 months or more. (see Overview below)
Overview
Immune globulin administration may impair the efficacy of live attenuated vaccines such as measles, rubella, mumps and varicella 20-22 (See Drug-Drug Interactions, Table 4). Vaccination with live virus vaccines should be deferred until approximately three months after administration of WinRho SDF. Patients who have received WinRho SDF shortly after live virus vaccination, should be revaccinated 3 months after the administration of the immune globulin.
Administration of WinRho SDF concomitantly with other drugs has not been evaluated. It is recommended that WinRho SDF be administered separately from other drugs (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Drug-Drug Interactions
Table 4: Established or Potential Drug-Drug Interactions
| Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) | Ref | Effect | Clinical Comment |
| Live attenuated virus vaccines (e.g. measles, rubella, mumps, varicella) | T | Immune globulin may impair efficacy | If WinRho SDF is given less than 14 days after vaccination, revaccination should be considered. |
Legend: T = Theoretical
Interactions with other drugs have not been established.
Drug-Food Interactions
Interactions with food have not been established.
Drug-Herb Interactions
Interactions with herbal products have not been established.
Drug-Laboratory Interactions
After administration of WinRho SDF, a transitory increase of passively transferred antibodies in the patient’s blood may result in misleading positive results in serological testing (e.g. Coombs’ test).
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
As WinRho SDF has one principle unit of measure (international units) and has historically had another (micrograms, mcg; See DESCRIPTION), physicians and pharmacists must use the appropriate unit of measure to determine the amount of WinRho SDF administered, as per recommendations below. As ITP treatment is weight-based, the correct unit for dose determination, kilogram (kg), must be used to determine total WinRho SDF dose. Misuse of either the WinRho SDF dosing unit or patient weight determination in pounds will result in overdose or underdose situations.
Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
Pregnancy and Other Obstetric Conditions
WinRho SDF should be administered by intravenous or intramuscular injection. Table 5 provides dosing guidelines based on the condition being treated.
Table 5: Obstetric Indications and Recommended Dose
| Indication | Timing of Administration | Dose (Administer IM or IV) |
| Pregnancy: | ||
| Routine antepartum prophylaxis | At Week 28-30 of gestation* | 1500 international units (300 mcg) |
| Postpartum prophylaxis (required only if the newborn is Rho(D)-positive or unknown) | Within 72 hours of birth of Rh (D) positive baby** | 600 international units (120 mcg) |
| Obstetric Conditions: | ||
| Obstetric complications (e.g., miscarriage, abortion, threatened abortion, ectopic pregnancy or hydatidiform mole, transplacental hemorrhage resulting from antepartum hemorrhage) | Within 72 hours of complication | 1500 international units (300 mcg)34 |
| Invasive procedures during pregnancy (e.g., amniocentesis, chorionic biopsy) † or obstetric manipulative procedures (e.g., external version, abdominal trauma) | Within 72 hours of procedure | 1500 international units (300 mcg) |
mcg, micrograms
*If WinRho SDF is administered early in the pregnancy, it is recommended that WinRho SDF be administered at 12 week intervals in order to maintain adequate levels of passively acquired anti-Rh.
** In the event that the Rh status of the baby is not known at 72 hours, WinRho SDF should be administered to the mother at 72 hours after delivery. If more than 72 hours have elapsed, WinRho SDF should not be withheld but administered as soon as possible up to 28 days after delivery.
†For amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling repeat every 12 weeks during pregnancy
Transfusion
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) should be administered for treatment of incompatible blood transfusions or massive fetal hemorrhage as outlined in Table 6.
Table 6: Transfusion Indication and Recommended Dose
| Route of Administration | WinRho SDF Dose | |
| If exposed to Rho (D) Positive Whole Blood | If exposed to Rho (D) Positive Red Blood Cells | |
| Intravenous | 45 international units (9 mcg)/mL blood | 90 international units (18 mcg)/mL of red blood cells |
| Intramuscular | 60 international units (12 mcg)/mL blood | 120 international units (24 mcg)/mL of red blood cells |
Administer 3,000 international units (600 mcg) every 8 hours via the intravenous route until the total dose, calculated from the above table, is administered.
Administer 6,000 international units (1,200 mcg) every 12 hours via the intramuscular route until the total dose, calculated from the above table, is administered.
Patients receiving an incompatible transfusion and those with ITP, who receive doses of anti-D immunoglobulin exceeding 300 international units/kg (60 mcg/kg), are at an increased risk of developing chills, fever and headache as well as a larger hemoglobin decrease and IVH.
Treatment of ITP
For all ITP patients, blood type, blood count, reticulocyte count, DAT and dipstick urinalysis are recommended before deciding to treat patients with WinRho SDF. In patients with evidence of hemolysis or patients at risk of hemolysis, other treatments MUST be used (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), must be given by intravenous administration for the treatment of ITP. An intravenous dose of 125 to 300 international units/kg (25 to 60 mcg/kg) body weight is recommended for individuals with ITP. Since WinRho SDF is administered on a weight-based regimen per kilogram (kg), patient weight determination must be taken in kilograms (kg) as inappropriate use of pounds (lbs) will result in significant overdosing of WinRho SDF.
Safety and efficacy of WinRho SDF in the treatment of ITP at doses exceeding 300 international units/kg (60 mcg/kg) has not been evaluated and is not recommended.
Initial Dosing
After confirming that the patient is Rho (D) positive, an initial dose of 250 international units/kg (50 mcg/kg) body weight is recommended for the treatment of ITP. If the patient has a hemoglobin level between 8-10 g/dL, a reduced dose of 125 to 200 international units/kg (25 to 40 mcg/kg) should be given to minimize the risk of increasing the severity of anemia in the patient (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS). The initial dose may be administered in two divided doses given on separate days, if desired. In patients with a hemoglobin level less than 8 g/dL, alternative treatments should be used due to the risk of increasing the severity of the anemia.
Subsequent Dosing
If subsequent therapy is required to elevate platelet counts, an intravenous dose of 125 to
300 international units/kg (25 to 60 mcg/kg) body weight of WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), is recommended. The frequency and dose used should be administered based on the patient's clinical response by assessing platelet counts, red cell counts, hemoglobin, and reticulocyte levels.
Administration
Parenteral products such as WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) should be inspected for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.
Bring the product to room temperature prior to dosing.
Aseptically administer the product intravenously in a suitable vein with a rate of injection of 1,500 international units (300 mcg)/5 to 15 seconds. If dilution of WinRho SDF is preferred prior to intravenous administration, use normal saline as diluent. Do not use Dextrose (5%) in water (D5W). No other diluents have been tested.
Intramuscular injections are made into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm or the anterolateral aspects of the upper thigh. Due to the risk of sciatic nerve injury, the gluteal region should not be used as a routine injection site. If the gluteal region is used, use only the upper, outer quadrant.
Discard any unused portion.
The following table describes the target fill volumes for each of the dosage sizes for WinRho SDF.
Table 7: WinRho SDF Dosage Size and Target Fill Volumes
| Vial Size | Target Fill Volume* |
| 600 international units (120 mcg) | 0.5 mL |
| 1,500 international units (300 mcg) | 1.3 mL |
| 2,500 international units (500 mcg) | 2.2 mL |
| 5,000 international units (1,000 mcg) | 4.4 mL |
| 15,000 international units (3,000 mcg) | 13.0 mL |
*Extractable volumes are confirmed using a 21 gauge needle as per USP General Chapters <1> Injections.
Note: The entire contents of the vial should be removed to obtain the labelled dosage of WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) for injection. If partial vials are required for dosage calculation, then calculation should be based on the target fill volume. For ease in withdrawing the contents of the vial, draw back the plunger of a sterile syringe (with the needle and needle cover in place) to admit air into the syringe. Depress the plunger of the syringe to inject air into the vial. Invert vial and aspirate content of vial into syringe.
OVERDOSAGE
Treatment of ITP and Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
In post-marketing spontaneous reporting, there has been a limited number of medication error reports related to dosage calculations in which higher doses than that recommended for WinRho SDF were administered. These calculation errors arose due to confusion between mcg and international units (1mcg = 5 international units), confusion between kilograms and pounds, and miscalculation of required dosage following a large feto-maternal hemorrhage. Adverse events reported in ITP patients have included chills, fever, headache and larger hemoglobin decreases while no hemolytic reactions were reported in prophylaxis of Rh immunization patients. In one ITP case report that involved an overdose due to confusion between mcg and international units, a patient with significant comorbidities developed IVH and had a fatal outcome. In the event of overdose patients should be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of hemolysis and the treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.
ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Mechanism of Action
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), is used to suppress the immune response of non-sensitized Rho (D)-negative individuals who receive Rho (D)-positive RBCs either by fetomaternal hemorrhage during delivery of an Rho (D) positive infant, abortion (either spontaneous or induced), following amniocentesis, abdominal trauma or mismatched transfusion19, 24, 25. Administration of anti-Rho (D) antibody to the Rho (D)-negative mother prevents an immune response with subsequent anti- Rho (D) antibody formation. The exact mechanism of action has yet to be determined.
WinRho SDF, when administered within 72 hours of a full-term delivery of an Rho (D)-positive infant by an Rho (D)-negative mother, will reduce the incidence of Rh alloimmunization from 12-13% to 1-2%. The 1-2% is, for the most part, due to alloimmunization during the last trimester of pregnancy. When treatment is given both antenatally at 28-weeks gestation and postpartum the Rh immunization rate drops to about 0.1%.19,26,27
Treatment of ITP
In a clinical study of WinRho therapy of children with chronic ITP (duration of ITP greater than 6 months), administration of anti-Rho (D) increased platelet counts from 36 plus or minus 14 x 109/L to 263 plus or minus 138 x 109/L; peak platelet levels were recorded at about one week after WinRho therapy; the effect of WinRho on platelet levels lasted a median of 29 days from the start of therapy. Comparable results were obtained in a clinical study of both adult and children with ITP of varying etiologies including ITP secondary to HIV infection. However, larger increases in platelet levels were seen in children than in adults.
WinRho SDF is used to increase platelet counts in non-splenectomized Rho (D) positive patients with ITP and to alleviate clinical signs of bleeding in this patient population. The mechanism of action is not completely understood but is thought to be due to binding of anti-Rho (D) (anti-D) to the Rho (D) RBC resulting in production of anti-D coated RBC complexes. This results in Fc receptor blockade, thus sparing antibody-coated platelets because of the preferential destruction of antibody-coated RBC complexes by the macrophages located in the reticuloendothelial system.8-10
Pharmacodynamics
Two pharmacodynamic studies (WR-002 and 5696-2) measuring the clearance of Rho (D)- positive RBCs from the bloodstream after injection of WinRho and WinRho SD have been conducted. These 15 Rho (D)-negative subjects received fetal Rho (D)-positive erythrocytes followed by WinRho, given either IM (n = 10) or IV (n = 5). Clearance of Rho (D)-positive RBCs was complete within 24 hours. Six months later 5 subjects were re-challenged with Rho (D)-positive RBCs and none of them had evidence of a secondary immune response after having received a second administration of WinRho. Up to 102 days after the second injection, no demonstrable anti-D antibodies were present in the sera of any of the subjects. These pharmacodynamic results are consistent with the prophylaxis of Rh alloimmunization in Rho (D)- negative females exposed to Rho (D)-positive blood.
Pharmacokinetics
Pharmacokinetics of IV and IM administrations of WinRho SDF were evaluated (WS-031). The area under the curve (AUC0-t) was similar after administration of IV and IM WinRho SDF which suggests IM administration is nearly 100% bioavailable. Peak levels (Cmax) following IV administration was higher than the IM administration. The half-life (t½) after IM administration was longer than the IV administration.
The pharmacokinetics of the lyophilized and the liquid formulations of WinRho SDF were compared in two clinical studies (WS-029 and WS-038). In WS-029 the pharmacokinetic parameters of IV administration of the two formulations were evaluated. The measured mean of AUC0-t and the Cmax were similar after IV administrations of lyophilized and liquid WinRho SDF. However, the 90% Confidence interval fell outside the predefined range of 80 to 125 % for the ratio of AUC0-t after correction for actual product potency. The t½ after IV administration of the two formulations was similar. The pharmacokinetics of the IM administrations of lyophilized and the liquid formulations of WinRho SDF were also compared (WS-038). The AUC0-t and the Cmax appeared to be comparable after IM administrations of the two formulations, but a number of subjects were excluded in order to show comparability. Data from this trial was insufficient to demonstrate bioequivalence, based on the predefined criteria. The t½ was the same after IM administration of the lyophilized and liquid WinRho SDF (26 days).
Absorption: Following WinRho administration by an IV route, peak levels are achieved within two hours, while the mean time to peak is 4 to 12 days when the drug is administered by an IM route. When 600 international units (120 mcg) of product was administered to non-pregnant volunteers, the peak levels of passive anti- Rho (D) antibody were about 20 ng/mL and 40 ng/mL when the product was administered by IM and IV routes, respectively.
Distribution: When only 600 international units (120 mcg) of drug is administered to pregnant women, passive anti-Rho (D) antibodies are not detectable in the circulation for more than six weeks and therefore a dose of 1,500 international units (300 mcg) should be used for antenatal administration.
The bioavailability following IV administration of WinRho SDF is expected to be immediate and complete, with passive antibodies quickly distributed between plasma and extravascular spaces28. Based on AUC comparisons from pharmacokinetic studies of WinRho SDF and other hyperimmune products, IM administration is expected to be nearly 100% bioavailable.29
Metabolism: Immune globulins and immune complexes are metabolized in the reticuloendothelial system.28
Excretion: Based on numerous pharmacokinetic studies, in normal healthy individuals, WinRho has typically an elimination half-life of 18 to 24 or 24 to 30 days following IV or IM administration, respectively. The half-life is expected to vary from patient to patient.
Duration of Effect
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), has been shown to increase platelets in ITP patients.30,32 Platelet counts usually rise within one to two days and peak within seven to 14 days after initiation of therapy. The duration of response is variable; however, the average duration is approximately 30 days.
STORAGE AND STABILITY
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) is stable at 2-8ºC until the expiry date indicated on the label. Store WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) at 2-8ºC. Do not freeze. Do not use after expiration date. Protect from light.
SPECIAL HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS
The product should be brought to room or body temperature immediately prior to use. WinRho SDF contains no preservatives. Discard any unused portion.
Do not use solutions that appear cloudy or contain deposits.
DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) is available in the dosage forms outlined below:
Product Contents:
| DIN | Product Description |
| 02302551 | A carton containing 600 international units (120 mcg) in 0.5 mL of anti-Rho (D) in a glass vial fitted with a stopper and a package insert. |
| 02302578 | A carton containing 1,500 international units (300 mcg) in 1.3 mL of anti-Rho (D) in a glass vial fitted with a stopper and a package insert. |
| 02302586 | A carton containing 2,500 international units (500 mcg) in 2.2 mL of anti-Rho (D) in a glass vial fitted with a stopper and a package insert. |
| 02302594 | A carton containing 5,000 international units (1,000 mcg) in 4.4 mL of anti-Rho (D) in a glass vial fitted with a stopper and a package insert. |
| 02302608 | A carton containing 15,000 international units (3,000 mcg) in 13.0 mL of anti-Rho (D) in a glass vial fitted with a stopper and a package insert. |
Composition
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) for injection, is available as a sterile liquid gamma globulin (IgG) fraction of human plasma containing antibodies to the Rho (D) antigen (D antigen). The product formulation is stabilized with 10% maltose and 0.03% (w/w) polysorbate 80.
PART II: SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION
PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION
Drug Substance
| Proper name: | Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) |
| Chemical name: | Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human) |
| Molecular formula and molecular mass: | Glycoprotein of approximately 160 kDa |
| Structural formula: | Gamma Immune Globulin (IgG) |
| Physicochemical properties: | IgG is a monomeric protein with a sedimentation coefficient of 7S and a molecular weight ranging from 146 to 170 kDa. Carbohydrate content of IgG is approximately 2-3%. |
Product Characteristics
WinRho SDF, Rho (D) Immunoglobulin (Human), is available as a sterile liquid gamma globulin (IgG) fraction of human plasma containing antibodies to the Rho (D) antigen
(D antigen). WinRho SDF is prepared from human plasma by using an anion-exchange column chromatography method.
Viral Inactivation
The manufacturing steps are designed to reduce the risk of transmission of viral disease. The solvent/detergent treatment step (using tri-n-butyl phosphate and octoxynol) is effective in inactivating known enveloped viruses such as Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Virus filtration using a 20N Virus Filter is effective in reducing some known enveloped and non-enveloped model viruses. In addition, the anion exchange chromatographic step has been shown to contribute to the removal of the non-lipid enveloped viruses HAV (hepatitis A virus) and MMV (murine minute virus), which is a model for parvovirus B19.
The inactivation and reduction of known enveloped and non-enveloped model viruses were validated in laboratory studies as summarized in Table 8.
Table 8: Viral Validation of Model Viruses in Laboratory Studies
| Enveloped | Non-Enveloped | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Genome | RNA | DNA | RNA | DNA | ||||||||||||||||||
| Virus | HIV-1 | BVDV | PRV | HAV | EMC | MMV | PPV | |||||||||||||||
| Family | Retro | Flavi | Herpes | Picorna | Parvo | |||||||||||||||||
| Size (nm) | 80-100 | 50-70 | 120-200 | 25-30 | 30 | 20-25 | 18-24 | |||||||||||||||
| Anion-Exchange Chromatography (Partitioning) | Not Evaluated | 2.3 | NE | 3.4 | NE | |||||||||||||||||
| 20 N Filtration (Size Exclusion) | greater than or equal to 4.7 | greater than or equal to 3.5 | greater than or equal to 5.6a | NE | 4.8 | NE | 4.1 | |||||||||||||||
| Solvent/Detergent | greater than or equal to 4.7 | greater than or equal to 7.3 | greater than or equal to 5.5 | Not Evaluated | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total Reduction (log10) | greater than 9.4 | greater than or equal to 10.8 | greater than or equal to 11.1 | 2.3 | 4.8 | 3.4 | 4.1 | |||||||||||||||
Abbreviations: HIV-1: human immunodeficiency virus-1; relevant virus for human immunodeficiency virus-1 and model for HIV-2 BVDV: bovine viral diarrhea virus; model virus for hepatitis C virus (HCV) and West Nile virus (WNV) PRV: pseudorabies virus; model for large enveloped DNA viruses, including herpes HAV: human hepatitis A virus; relevant virus for HAV and model for small non-enveloped viruses in general EMC: encephalomyocarditis virus; model for HAV and for small non-enveloped viruses in general MMV: murine minute virus; model for human B19 parvovirus and for small non-enveloped viruses in general PPV: porcine parvovirus; model for human B19 parvovirus and for small non-enveloped viruses in general NE.: not evaluated aThe PRV was retained by the 0.1µ pre-filter during the virus validation. Since manufacturing employs a 0.1µm pre-filter before the 20N filter, the claim of greater than or equal to 5.6 reduction is considered applicable. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
CLINICAL TRIALS
Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
The efficacy and safety of WinRho in prophylaxis of Rh immunization was evaluated in 3 clinical trials. Study WR-003 was a phase 3 study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of WinRho in pregnant Rho (D)-negative women whose husband’s Rho (D) serotype was either positive or unknown. The study PM-010 was a phase 4 retrospective survey of the results of pregnancies treated with WinRho SDF to prevent Rh immunization. Based on a prospective protocol, a case report form was designed to transfer information out of an existing medical database of women who had received WinRho SDF in order to assess efficacy and safety of the product in antenatal prophylaxis of Rh immunization. Study PM-011 was a phase 4 post- marketing surveillance of efficacy and safety of WinRho SD in the prophylaxis of Rh immunization following the introduction of WinRho SD in Ireland.
Study Demographics and Trial Design
A total of 1,186 Rho (D)-negative pregnant women were administered WinRho in study WR-003. In addition, WinRho was administered to the mother postpartum if the Rho (D) serotype of the infant was positive. In study PM-010, 226 Rho (D)-negative pregnant women were treated antenatally and postpartum with WinRho SDF. One patient had a spontaneous abortion and the Rho (D) blood type of the fetus was unknown. All analyses were done on the intent-to-treat population which included 226 subjects. In study PM-011, a total of 650 Rho (D)-negative women were administered WinRho SD antenatally or postpartum.
Table 9: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization Studies
| Study # | Trial Design | Dosage, Route of Administration and Duration | Study Subjects (n = number) | Mean Age plus or minus SD (Range) | Gender |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WR-003 | Phase 3, open label, single arm study in pregnant Rho (D)- negative women |
+ 600 international units (IV) postpartum | 93 | n/a | All female |
weeks + 600 international units (IV) postpartum | 131 | ||||
+ 600 international units (IV) postpartum | 962 | ||||
| PM-010 | Phase 4, open-label study in pregnant Rho (D)-negative women | Individual antenatal infusions of 600-1,500 international units (IV or IM), 600 international units (IV) postpartum | 226 | 28.1 plus or minus 5.7 Years (15-41) | All female |
| Study # | Trial Design | Dosage, Route of Administration and Duration | Study Subjects (n = number) | Mean Age plus or minus SD (Range) | Gender |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PM-011 | Phase 4, open-label study in pregnant Rho (D)-negative women | 1 x 600 international units (IV) | 648 | 29.8 plus or minus 5.4 Years (15-45) | All female |
Study Results
In all 3 studies the primary efficacy endpoint was the rate of Rh immunization of the pregnant Rho (D)-negative mother by her Rho (D)-positive baby at delivery (studies WR-003 and PM- 010), 6 months post-delivery (studies WR-003 and PM-011), and 12 months post-delivery (study PM-011). These results demonstrated the effectiveness of WinRho in preventing Rh immunization (Table 10).
Table 10: Results of Studies WR-003, PM-010, and PM-011 in Prophylaxis of Rh Immunization
| Study # | Primary Endpoints | Results Statistical Test/P value |
| WR-003 | Rh isoimmunization of mother at delivery and at 6 months post-delivery | Chi-square test between observed (0/806) and expected* (15/806) isoimmunization / p less than 0.001 |
| PM-010 | Rh isoimmunization of mother at delivery | Chi-square test between observed (0/226) and expected* (4/226) isoimmunization / p less than 0.05 |
| PM-011 | Rh isoimmunization of mother at 6 and/or 12 months post-delivery | None of the mothers were Rh immunized at 6 months and/or 12 months follow-up |
| * Based on historical data. 19,33,34 | ||
Treatment of ITP
The efficacy and safety of WinRho in the treatment of ITP was evaluated in 4 clinical studies (Table 11). Study AITP was a phase 3 study in children with acute ITP. In AITP, the efficacy and the safety of WinRho was compared to standard therapies for treatment of acute ITP in children: 1- high dose IGIV, 2- low dose IGIV, and 3-prednisone. Study CITP was a phase 3 study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of WinRho in children with chronic ITP. Study BITP-1 was a phase 3 study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of WinRho/WinRho SD in adults and children with ITP secondary to HIV infection. Study BITP-2 was a phase 3 study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of WinRho/WinRho SD in adults with chronic ITP. Study BITP-3 was a phase 3 study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of WinRho/WinRho SD in adults with acute ITP.
Table 11: Summary of Patient Demographics for Clinical Trials in ITP Studies
| Study # | Trial Design | Dosage, Route of Administration and Duration | Study Subjects (n=number) | Mean Age (Range) | Gender | ||||
| AITP | Phase 3, open label, randomized, parallel arm study in children with acute ITP | WinRho at 250 international units/kg | 38 | 6.8 plus or minus 4.5 years (0.7-15) | 15M:23F | ||||
| IGIV at 2.0 g/kg | 35 | 6.1 plus or minus 3.8 years (1-15) | 22M:13F | ||||||
| IGIV at 0.8 g/kg | 34 | 5.9 plus or minus 4.4 years (1-16) | 17M:17F | ||||||
| Prednisone at 4.0 mg/kg/day for 7days | 39 | 6.3 plus or minus 4.6 years (0.9-16) | 25M:14F | ||||||
| CITP | Phase 3, open label, single arm study in children with chronic ITP | WinRho/WinRho SD at 250 international units /kg and additional doses if clinically required | 25 | 10.6 plus or minus 4.6 (years (2-18) | 8M:17F | ||||
| BITP-1 | Phase 3, open-label, single arm study in children and adults with ITP secondary to HIV | WinRho/WinRho SD at 50-375 international units /kg | 65 | 30.7 plus or minus14.0 years) (0.5-58) | 60M:5F | ||||
| BITP-2 | Phase 3, open-label, single arm study in adults with chronic ITP | WinRho/WinRho SD at 50-375 international units /kg | 26 | 44.3 plus or minus 20.7 years (18-80) | 13M:13F | ||||
| BITP-3 | Phase 3, open-label, single arm study in adults with acute ITP | WinRho/WinRho SD at 50-375 international units /kg | 7 | 51.7 plus or minus 22.5 years (19-84) | 3M:4F | ||||
Study Results
Childhood Acute ITP (AITP)
A multicenter, randomized, controlled trial comparing Rho (D) IGIV to high dose and low dose Immune Globulin (Human) and prednisone was conducted in 146 non-splenectomized, Rho (D)
positive children with acute ITP and platelet counts less than 20 x 109/L. Of 38 patients receiving Rho (D) IGIV (125 international units /kg [25 mcg/kg] on days 1 and 2), 32 patients (84%) responded (platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L) with a mean peak platelet count of 319.5 x 109/L (range 61 x 109/L to 892 x 109/L), with no statistically significant differences compared to other treatment arms. The mean times to achieving greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L or greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L platelets for patients receiving Rho (D) IGIV were 1.9 and 2.8 days, respectively. When comparing the different therapies for time to platelet count greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L or greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L, no statistically significant differences among treatment groups were detected, with a range of 1.3 to 1.9 days and 2.0 to 3.2 days, respectively.
Table 12: Results of Study AITP in Treatment of Acute ITP in Children
| Primary Endpoints | WinRho | High Dose IGIV | Low Dose IGIV | Prednisone |
| Time to reach platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L (days) | 2.8 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 3.2 |
| Time to reach platelet count greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L (days) | 1.9 | 1.6 | 1.3 | 1.9 |
Childhood Chronic ITP (CITP)
In an open-label, single arm, multicenter study, 25 non-splenectomized, Rho (D) positive children with ITP of greater than six-months duration were treated initially with 250 international units /kg (50 mcg/kg) Rho (D) Immune Globulin (Human) (125 international units /kg [25 mcg/kg] on days 1 and 2), with subsequent doses ranging from 125 to 275 international units/kg (25 to 55 µg/kg). Response was defined as a platelet increase to at least 50 x 109/L and a doubling of the baseline. In the per protocol analysis, 19 of 24 patients responded for an overall response rate of 79%, an overall mean peak platelet count of 229.4 x 109/L (range 43.3 x 109/L to 456 x 109/L), and a mean duration of response of 36.5 days (range 6 to 84).
Table 13: Results of Study CITP in Treatment of Chronic ITP in Children
| Primary Endpoints | First Course | Overall |
| Proportion of responding patients | 92% | 92% |
| Mean Peak platelet count (x 109/L) | 241.1 | 225.6 |
| Maximum change in platelet count from baseline (x 109/L) | 206.6 | 192.6 |
ITP Secondary to HIV Infection (BITP-1)
Eleven (11) children and 52 adults who were non-splenectomized, Rho (D) positive with all Walter Reed classes of HIV infection and ITP, with initial platelet counts of less than or equal to 30 x 109/L or requiring therapy, were treated with 50 to 375 international units/kg (10 to 75 mcg/kg) Rho (D) IGIV in an open- label trial. Rho (D) IGIV was administered for an average of 7.3 courses (range 1 to 57) over a mean period of 407 days (range 6 to 1,952). Fifty-seven (57) of 63 patients responded (increase greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L) during the first six courses of therapy for an overall response rate of 90%. The overall mean change in platelet count for six courses was 60.9 x 109/L (range -2 x 109/L to 565 x 109/L), and the mean peak platelet count was 81.7 x 109/L (range 16 x 109/L to 593 x 109/L).
Table 14: Results of Study BITP-1 in Treatment of ITP Secondary to HIV Infection in Children and Adults
| Primary Endpoints | First Course | Overall |
| Proportion of responding patients | 75% | 90% |
| Mean Peak platelet count (x 109/L) | 87.3 | 81.7 |
| Maximum change in platelet count from baseline (x 109/L) | 66.6 | 60.9 |
Adult Chronic ITP (BITP-2)
Twenty-six (26) non-splenectomized, Rho (D) positive adults with ITP of greater than six months duration and platelet counts less than 30 x 109/L or requiring therapy were enrolled in a single-arm, open-label trial and treated with 50 to 375 international units/kg (20 to 75 mcg/kg) Rho (D) IGIV (mean dose 231 international units /kg [46.2 mcg/kg]). In the per protocol analysis, 21 of 24 patients responded (increase greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L) during the first two courses of therapy for an overall response rate of 88% with a mean peak platelet count of 92.3 x 109/L (range 8.0 to 229 x 109/L).
Table 15: Results of Study BITP-2 in Treatment of Chronic ITP in Adults
| Primary Endpoints | First Course | Overall |
| Proportion of responding patients | 83% | 88% |
| Mean Peak platelet count (x 109/L) | 92.6 | 92.3 |
| Maximum change in platelet count from baseline (x 109/L) | 66.7 | 65.6 |
Adult Acute ITP (BITP-3)
Seven (7) non-splenectomized, Rho (D) positive adults with ITP of less than six months duration and platelet counts less than 30 x 109/L or requiring therapy were enrolled in a single-arm, open-label trial and treated with 50 to 375 international units/kg (20 to 75 mcg/kg) Rho (D) IGIV (mean dose 187 international units /kg [37.3 mcg/kg]). In the per protocol analysis, 5 of 6 patients responded (increase greater than or equal to 20 x 109/L) during the only course of therapy for a response rate of 83% with a mean peak platelet count of 106.8 x 109/L (range 18.0 to 240 x 109/L).
Comparative Bioavailability Studies
In two comparative pharmacokinetics studies, 101 volunteers were administered the liquid or lyophilized formulation of WinRho SDF IV (N=41) or IM (N=60). In WS-029 the pharmacokinetic parameters of IV administration of the 2 formulations were evaluated. The measured mean of AUC0-t and the Cmax were similar after IV administrations of lyophilized and liquid WinRho SDF. However, the 90% Confidence interval fell outside the predefined range of 80 to 125% for the ratio of AUC0-t after correction for actual product potency. The AUC0-t and the Cmax appeared to be comparable after IM administrations of the 2 formulations (study WS- 038), but a number of subjects were excluded in order to show comparability. Data from this trial was insufficient to demonstrate bioequivalence, based on the predefined criteria. The average peak concentrations (Cmax) of anti-Rho (D) for both formulations were comparable following IV or IM administration and occurred within 30 minutes or 2 – 4 days of administration, respectively. Both formulations also had similar elimination half-lives (t½) following IV or IM administration.
Table 16: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Liquid and Lyophilized WinRho SDF in Healthy Volunteers (IV Administration)
WinRho SDF IV - Liquid vs Lyophilized From measured data Arithmetic Mean (+SD) | ||||
| Parameter | Liquid Formulation | Lyophilized Formulation | % Ratio of Geometric Means | Confidence Interval |
| AUC0-∞ (ng*day/mL) | 24,163 (15,514) | 24,993 (13,674) | ||
| AUC0 (ng*day/mL) | 17,890 (7,334) | 18,096 (7,154) | 100.17 | 81.85-122.60 |
| CMAX (ng/mL) | 1,473 (142) | 1,494 (268) | 99.89 | 92.08-108.38 |
| TMAX (days) | 0.011 (0.014) | 0.029 (0.073) | ||
| t½ (days) | 44 (28) | 48 (31) | ||
Table 17: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Liquid and Lyophilized WinRho SDF in Healthy Volunteers (IM Administration)
| WinRho SDF IM - Liquid vs Lyophilized From measured data1 Arithmetic Mean (+SD) | ||||
| Parameter | Liquid Formulation | Lyophilized Formulation | % Ratio of Geometric Means | Confidence Interval |
| AUC0-28 (ng*h/mL) | 67,113 (11,582) | 60,248 (14,115) | 109.8 | 100.0-120.5 |
| AUC0-t (ng*h/mL) | 95,638 (27,812) | 77,235 (30,539) | ||
| CMAX (ng/mL) | 151 (30.6) | 132 (38.6) | 112.5 | 99.9-126.7 |
| TMAX (days) | 3.2 (1.0) | 3.8 (1.9) | ||
| t½ (days) | 25.5 (10.2) | 25.7 (9.0) | ||
1 The presented values were obtained after exclusion of 5 of 60 subjects in the trial.
DETAILED PHARMACOLOGY
Pharmacokinetics
Six pharmacokinetic studies (WR-001, 5696-1, WS-019, WS-029, WS-031, and WS-038) were conducted with different generations of the lyophilized formulation WinRho SDF. Study WR- 001 compared the pharmacokinetics of IM versus IV using first generation product, WinRho. In study 5696-1 the pharmacokinetics of WinRho were compared to the second generation product, WinRho SD. In study WS-019 pharmacokinetics of the early development formulation of WinRho SD (without polysorbate 80) were compared to the commercial formulation of WinRho SD (with polysorbate 80). In study WS-031 pharmacokinetics of different doses and routes of administration of the third generation product, WinRho SDF, were compared. From the pharmacokinetic studies it was shown that the 3 generations of the product, WinRho, WinRho SD, and WinRho SDF, have similar pharmacokinetic parameters and that modifications to the manufacturing and formulation of the product over the years did not affect its pharmacokinetic profile.
In 2 clinical studies (WS-029 and WS-031) the pharmacokinetics of the lyophilized and the liquid formulations of WinRho SDF were compared. Please refer to the CLINICAL TRIALS, Comparative Bioavailability Studies section for additional information.
Pharmacodynamics
A clinical study (WR-002) was conducted with 10 Rho (D)-negative volunteers. All subjects were administered an IV infusion of Rho (D)-positive fetal red cells. Two days after injection of the red cells, five subjects were given an IM injection of 600 international units (120 mcg) WinRho and five subjects were given an IV injection of 600 international units (120 mcg) WinRho. Fetal red cells were cleared from the circulation of the subjects within eight hours of IV administration of the drug or within 24 hours of IM administration of the drug. None of the subjects had evidence of Rh alloimmunization either by screening for anti-Rho (D) (two stage papain, indirect Coombs, saline and low ionic Autoanalyzer techniques) or by challenge of the subjects with Rho (D) fetal cells six months after first clearance of the red cells with WinRho (Table 18).
Another clinical study (5696-2) was conducted with five Rho (D)-negative volunteers; the same study design was used for clearance of Rho (D)-positive red cells after IV administration of
600 international units (120 mcg). All fetal red cells were cleared from the circulation of the volunteers within eight hours of administration of WinRho SD None of the subjects had evidence of Rh alloimmunization by screening for anti- Rho (D) antibodies at three and six months after WinRho SD administration (Table 18).
Table 18: Comparison of Rho (D)-Positive RBC Clearance
| Time (hr) after Administration of Drug | WinRho SD Treated Subjects 5696-2 | WinRho Treated Subjects WR-002 | ||||
| Fetal RBC | % Fetal RBC | Fetal RBC | % Fetal RBC | |||
| Pre-treatment | 481 plus or minus 106 | 100% | 342 plus or minus 27 | 100% | ||
| 1 | 390 plus or minus 106 | 82% plus or minus 19% | 236 plus or minus 53 | 70% plus or minus 18% | ||
| 3 | 38 plus or minus 35 | 7% plus or minus 7% | 55 plus or minus 11 | 16% plus or minus 2% | ||
| 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| 24 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
TOXICOLOGY
An IV acute toxicity study was conducted in mice using WinRho, Rho (D) Immune globulin (Human). An LD50 was not determined, as the maximal dose used did not kill any experimental animals. A lower limit of 18,750 international units (3,750 mcg) anti-Rho (D)/kg body weight was established as the LD50 for this drug. Neither observation nor necropsy of the experimental animals revealed any acute toxicity related to the study drug.
In a clinical study with healthy Rho (D)-negative male volunteers, WinRho SD, Rho (D) Immune Globulin (Human), has been administered IV at a dose of 250 international units /kg (50 mcg/kg) of body weight. In that study, there were no signs of toxicity which could be attributed to WinRho SD. There was a moderate elevation of serum LDH levels (p less than 0.03).
WinRho has undergone clinical testing in Rho(D)-positive individuals with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura. In these studies, subjects received multiple intravenous injections from 1,500 international units (300 mcg) anti-Rho (D) (total) to 375 international units (75 mcg) anti- Rho (D)/kg body weight. In these studies, the only associated signs of toxicity which were identified were mild compensated hemolysis.
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