CNJ-016 Injection: Package Insert / Prescribing Info

2.1 Dosage for Treatment of Severe Complications of Vaccinia Vaccination

Administer VIGIV at a dose of 6000 Units per kg, as soon as symptoms appear and are judged to be due to severe vaccinia-related complication. Consider repeat dosing, depending on the severity of the symptoms and response to treatment; however, clinical data on repeat doses are lacking. Consider higher doses (e.g. 9000 Units per kg) if the patient does not respond to the initial 6000 Units per kg dose. Doses up to 24,000 Units per kg administered to healthy volunteers were well tolerated in clinical trials [see 14 CLINICAL STUDIES].

2.2 Preparation

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Bring VIGIV vials to room temperature prior to dosing.

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If frozen, thaw vial by placing in a refrigerator at 36 to 46°F (2 to 8°C) until the contents are thawed for approximately 14 hours. Product can be thawed rapidly by placing at room temperature for one hour followed by a water bath at 98.6°F (37°C) until thawed.

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Do not thaw this product in a microwave oven.

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Do not refreeze the vial.

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DO NOT SHAKE VIAL. SHAKING VIAL MAY CAUSE FOAMING.

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Remove the entire contents of the vial to obtain the labeled dosage of VIGIV. If partial vials are required for the dosage calculation, withdraw the entire contents of the vial to ensure accurate calculation of the dosage requirement.

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VIGIV is compatible with 0.9% Sodium Chloride USP. No other drug interactions or compatibilities have been evaluated. If a pre-existing catheter must be used, flush the line with 0.9% Sodium Chloride USP before use. VIGIV may be administered either undiluted or diluted no more than 1:2 (v/v).

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VIGIV vial is for single use only. Do not reuse or save VIGIV for future use.

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VIGIV contains no preservatives. Discard partially used vials.

2.3 Administration

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Inspect the product prior to use and do not use if solution is cloudy, discolored or contains particulates.

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Administer VIGIV intravenously through a dedicated intravenous line with the rate of infusion of no greater than 2 mL/min.

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For patients weighing less than 50 kg, infuse the product at a rate no greater than 0.04 mL/kg/minute (133.3 Units per kg/minute).

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Adverse drug reactions may be related to the rate of infusion. Slower infusion rate may be needed for patients who develop a minor adverse reaction (e.g. flushing) or for patients with risk factors for thrombosis/thromboembolism.

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Closely monitor and carefully observe patients and their vital signs for any symptoms throughout the infusion period and immediately following an infusion.

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For patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency, or at increased risk of acute kidney injury, thrombosis, or volume overload, do not exceed the recommended infusion rate and follow the infusion schedule closely.

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For patients with risk factors for thrombosis, the maximum daily dose of VIGIV should not exceed 12,000 Units per kg [see 5.4 Thrombosis]

5.1 Hypersensitivity

Severe immediate hypersensitivity reactions to plasma-derived products may occur, for example, in patients with IgA deficiency or hypersensitivity to human globulin. Although acute systemic allergic reactions were not seen in clinical trials with VIGIV [see 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience], administer the product only in a setting where appropriate equipment and personnel trained in the management of acute anaphylaxis are available. In case of hypotension, allergic or anaphylactic reaction, discontinue the administration of VIGIV immediately and give supportive care as needed. In case of shock, observe the current medical standards for shock treatment.

5.2 Acute Renal Dysfunction/Failure

Renal dysfunction, acute renal failure, osmotic nephropathy, proximal tubular nephropathy, and death may occur upon use of immune globulin intravenous (Human) (IGIV) products. Use VIGIV with caution in patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency and in patients at risk of developing renal insufficiency (including, but not limited to those with diabetes mellitus, age greater than 65 years, volume depletion, paraproteinemia, sepsis, and patients receiving known nephrotoxic drugs), and administer VIGIV at the minimum rate of infusion practicable. In these cases, it is important to ensure that patients are not volume depleted before VIGIV infusion. Do not exceed the recommended infusion rate and follow the infusion schedule closely [see 2.3 Administration]. Periodic monitoring of renal function and urine output is particularly important in patients judged to be at increased risk of developing acute renal failure. Assess renal function, including measurement of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine, before the initial infusion of VIGIV and at appropriate intervals thereafter. If renal function deteriorates, consider discontinuing VIGIV.

Most cases of renal insufficiency following administration of IGIV have occurred in patients receiving total doses containing 400 mg/kg of sucrose or greater. VIGIV does not contain sucrose. No prospective data are currently available in patients with risk factors for renal insufficiency to identify a maximum safe dose, concentration, and/or rate of infusion for VIGIV.

5.3 Blood Glucose Monitoring

Some types of blood glucose testing systems (for example those based on the glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolinequinone (GDH-PQQ) or glucose-dye-oxidoreductase methods) could falsely interpret the maltose contained in VIGIV as glucose [see BOXED WARNING]. This could result in falsely elevated glucose readings and, consequently, in the inappropriate administration of insulin, resulting in life-threatening hypoglycemia. Also, cases of true hypoglycemia may go untreated if the hypoglycemic state is masked by falsely elevated glucose readings. Accordingly, when administering VIGIV or other parenteral maltose-containing products, measure blood glucose with a glucose-specific method.

Carefully review the product information of the blood glucose testing system, including that of the test strips, 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.

5.4 Thrombosis

Thrombotic events may occur in association with IGIV treatment. Patients at risk 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. Weigh the potential risks and benefits of VIGIV against those of alternative therapies for all patients for whom VIGIV administration is being considered.

Because of the potentially increased risk of thrombosis, consider baseline assessment of blood viscosity in patients at risk for hyperviscosity, including those with cryoglobulins, fasting chylomicronemia/markedly high triacylglycerols (triglycerides), or monoclonal gammopathies.

In patients where the benefits of VIGIV administration out-weigh the potential risks of thrombotic and thromboembolic events, administer VIGIV at the minimum concentration available and at the minimum rate of infusion practicable. Ensure adequate hydration in patients before administration. Monitor for signs and symptoms of thrombosis and assess blood viscosity in patients at risk for hyperviscosity. While there are currently no prospective data in patients with thrombosis/thromboembolism to identify a maximum safe dose, concentration, and/or rate of infusion for VIGIV, the maximum daily dose of VIGIV should not exceed 12,000 Units per kg in patients with thrombotic risk factors.

5.5 Hemolysis

VIGIV may contain blood group antibodies which may act as hemolysins and induce in vivo coating of red blood cells with immune globulin, causing a positive direct antiglobulin reaction and hemolysis. Acute hemolysis, consistent with intravascular hemolysis, has been reported and hemolytic anemia can develop subsequent to IGIV therapy due to enhanced red blood cell sequestration.

The following risk factors may be associated with the development of hemolysis following Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human) (IGIV) products: high doses, given either as a single administration or divided over several days, and non-O blood group (1). Other individual patient factors, such as an underlying inflammatory state (as may be reflected by, for example, elevated C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate), have been hypothesized to increase the risk of hemolysis following administration of IGIV (2), but their role is uncertain. Closely monitor VIGIV recipients for clinical signs and symptoms of hemolysis, particularly patients with risk factors noted above. Consider appropriate laboratory testing in higher risk patients, including measurement of hemoglobin or hematocrit prior to infusion and within approximately 36 to 96 hours post infusion. If signs and/or symptoms of hemolysis or a significant drop in hemoglobin or hematocrit have been observed after VIGIV infusion, perform additional confirmatory laboratory testing. If transfusion is indicated for patients who develop hemolysis with clinically compromising anemia after receiving VIGIV, perform adequate cross-matching to avoid exacerbating on-going hemolysis.

5.6 Aseptic Meningitis Syndrome (AMS)

AMS may occur in association with IGIV administration. AMS usually begins within several hours to two days following IGIV treatment. Discontinuation of IGIV treatment has resulted in remission of AMS within several days without sequelae.

AMS is characterized by the following symptoms and signs: severe headache, nuchal rigidity, drowsiness, fever, photophobia, painful eye movements, and nausea and vomiting. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) studies are frequently positive with pleocytosis up to several thousand cells per cubic millimeter, predominately from the granulocytic series, and with elevated protein levels up to several hundred mg/dL, but negative culture results. Conduct a thorough neurological examination in patients exhibiting such symptoms and signs, including CSF studies, to rule out other causes of meningitis.

AMS may occur more frequently in association with high total doses (2 g/kg) of IGIV treatment. For VIGIV, at the recommended dosage of 6000 Units per kg, a patient may be exposed to up to 0.18 g/kg protein after VIGIV administration.

5.7 Transfusion-related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI)

Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema may occur in patients administered IGIV. TRALI is characterized by severe respiratory distress, pulmonary edema, hypoxemia, normal left ventricular function, and fever and typically occurs within one to six hours after transfusion. Patients with TRALI may be managed using oxygen therapy with adequate ventilatory support.

Monitor VIGIV recipients for pulmonary adverse reactions. If TRALI is suspected, perform appropriate tests for the presence of anti-neutrophil antibodies in both the product and patient serum.

5.8 Transmissible Infectious Agents

Because this product is made from human blood, it may carry a risk of transmitting infectious agents, e.g., viruses, the variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (vCJD) agent and, theoretically, the Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD) agent.

All infections thought to have been possibly transmitted by this product should be reported by the physician or other health care provider to Emergent BioSolutions Canada Inc. at 1 800-768-2304.

5.9 Monitoring: Laboratory Tests

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Periodic monitoring of renal function and urine output is particularly important in patients judged to be at increased risk of developing acute renal failure. Assess renal function, including measurement of BUN and serum creatinine, before the initial infusion of VIGIV and at appropriate intervals thereafter.

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Because of the potentially increased risk of thrombosis, consider baseline assessment of blood viscosity in patients at risk for hyperviscosity, including those with cryoglobulins, fasting chylomicronemia/markedly high triacylglycerols (triglycerides), or monoclonal gammopathies.

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If signs and/or symptoms of hemolysis are present after an infusion of VIGIV, perform appropriate laboratory testing for confirmation.

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If TRALI is suspected, perform appropriate tests for the presence of anti-neutrophil antibodies in both the product and patient’s serum.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

In a safety/pharmacokinetics study, 60 healthy male and female volunteers received a single intravenous dose of either 6000 Units per kg or 9000 Units per kg VIGIV. The population consisted of vaccinia vaccination-naïve subjects, ages 18 to 32, with both males and females enrolled in an approximate 50:50 ratio.

In a pharmacodynamic study, 32 healthy male and female volunteers were randomized to receive vaccinia vaccination (n=10), VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) 4 days prior to vaccinia vaccination (n=10), or VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) concurrent with vaccinia vaccination (n=12). The population consisted of vaccinia vaccination-naïve subjects, ages 18 to 32, with both male and female enrolled in a 75:25 ratio. The ethnic background of patients included those of Caucasian, African American, Asian and Hispanic descent, with the majority of them being Caucasian.

In an additional pharmacodynamic clinical study, 50 healthy male and female volunteers were randomized to receive VIGIV at 9000 Units per kg (n=20) or at 24,000 Units per kg (n=20) or placebo (n=10) 4 days prior to vaccinia vaccination (n=30) or placebo (n=20). The population consisted of vaccinia vaccination-naïve male and female subjects, ages 18 to 33, in a 60:40 ratio. The ethnic background of patients included those of Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic descent, with the majority of them being African American.

The most frequently reported adverse reactions related to VIGIV administration in all three clinical studies were headache, nausea, rigors, and dizziness. Table 1 describes the adverse reactions that were temporally related to VIGIV or placebo administration that occurred during or within three days of product infusion with a frequency of 5% or higher in any one treatment group.

Most adverse reactions were of mild intensity (defined in study protocols as awareness of a sign or symptom but subject can tolerate). One subject in the 9000 Units per kg dosage group experienced syncope.

There was a lower incidence of adverse reactions when VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) was infused at 2 mL/min than 4 mL/min. There was a higher incidence of adverse reactions after administration of VIGIV in fasted subjects compared to subjects that were not fasted overnight.

There were no serious adverse reactions or adverse reactions of severe intensity in the clinical studies. There were no instances of VIGIV discontinuation due to an adverse event, or reduction in dose or infusion rate.

6.2 Post-marketing Experience

Because post-marketing adverse reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to exposure to the product.

Severe vaccinia infection that developed possible intravascular hemolysis and transient renal injury has been reported. As VIGIV may contain blood group antigens that may have hemolysins, VIGIV doses may have contributed to the hemolysis. However, the hemolysis did not reoccur with continued VIGIV dosing. Mild and transient chest pain that occurred the same day of VIGIV infusion has been reported.

The following are adverse reactions listed by body system that have been identified and reported during the post-approval use of other IGIV products:

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Cardiovascular: Cardiac arrest, tachycardia

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Hematologic and Lymphatic: Neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, lymphadenopathy

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Integumentary: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, epidermolysis, erythema multiforme, dermatitis (e.g., bullous dermatitis), urticaria or other skin reactions

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Gastrointestinal: Hepatic dysfunction, abdominal pain, diarrhea

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Muscular: Myalgia, arthralgia

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Neurological: Coma, loss of consciousness, seizures

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Renal: Acute kidney injury, osmotic nephropathy

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Respiratory: Apnea, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), cyanosis, hypoxemia, pulmonary edema, dyspnea, bronchospasm, wheezing

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General/Body as a Whole: Malaise, chest discomfort

7.1 Live, Attenuated Vaccines

Immune globulin administration may impair the efficacy of live attenuated vaccines such as measles, rubella, mumps and varicella. Defer vaccination with live virus vaccines until approximately three months after administration of VIGIV. Revaccinate people who received VIGIV shortly after live virus vaccination three months after the administration of the VIGIV.

7.2 Drug/Laboratory Interactions

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VIGIV contains maltose, which can be misinterpreted as glucose by certain types of blood glucose testing systems (for example, those based on the GDH-PQQ or glucose-dye-oxidoreductase methods). Due to the potential for falsely elevated glucose readings, only use testing systems that are glucose-specific to test or monitor blood glucose levels in patients receiving VIGIV [see BOXED WARNING and 5.3 Blood Glucose Monitoring

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Antibodies present in VIGIV may interfere with some serological tests. After administration of immune globulins like VIGIV, a transitory increase of passively transferred antibodies in the patient’s blood may result in positive results in serological testing (e.g. Coombs’ test) [see 5.5 Hemolysis].

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no data on the use of VIGIV in pregnant women to inform on drug-associated risk. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with VIGIV.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data to assess the presence or absence of VIGIV in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child or the effects on milk production/excretion.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in the pediatric population (<16 yrs of age) has not been established for VIGIV.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in the geriatric population (>65 yrs of age) has not been established for VIGIV.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

VIGIV provides passive immunity for individuals with complications to vaccinia virus vaccination. The exact mechanism of action is not known.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Two double-blind pharmacodynamic studies were conducted in which 82 healthy volunteers were randomized to receive vaccinia vaccination with or without VIGIV.

In the first study, the efficacy of 9000 Units per kg of VIGIV on the immunologic and local response to Dryvax was evaluated. A total of 32 healthy subjects were randomized to receive single IV infusions of either VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) or Placebo (0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP) on Day 0, and either Placebo or VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) concurrently with vaccinia (Dryvax) vaccination on Day 4.

In a second study, 50 healthy subjects were randomized to receive a single IV infusion of either VIGIV (9000 Units per kg), VIGIV (24,000 Units per kg), or Placebo (0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP) on Day 0, and either placebo or vaccinia (Dryvax) vaccination on Day 4.

The effect of VIGIV on the immunologic response to Dryvax was determined by measuring vaccinia antibody titer (vaccinia IgG) in plasma and comparing titer levels across all three treatment arms. In addition, the effect of VIGIV on the local response (tissue) to Dryvax was assessed by evaluating the size of the pox reaction, as well as the area of erythema and induration following vaccination.

VIGIV (9000 Units per kg and 24,000 Units per kg) reduced the local and immunological response to vaccinia vaccination when it was administered 4 days prior to vaccination compared to vaccination alone. This is consistent with the hypothesis that VIGIV can neutralize vaccinia virus in vivo [see 14 CLINICAL STUDIES]. In addition, infusions of VIGIV of up to 24,000 Units per kg were well tolerated [see 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience].

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

A double-blind study was conducted in which 60 healthy subjects were randomized to receive either 6000 Units per kg or 9000 Units per kg VIGIV. After intravenous administration of 6000 Units per kg to 31 healthy subjects, a mean peak plasma concentration of 161 Units per mL was achieved within two hours. The half-life of VIGIV was 30 days (range of 13 to 67 days) and the volume of distribution was 6630 mL. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated based on antibody levels determined by an ELISA.

The levels of vaccinia immune globulin remained in circulation for a prolonged period of time, with a mean half-life ranging from approximately 26 to 30 days. Maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) of VIGIV reached levels ranging from approximately 160 to 232 Units per mL in 1.8 to 2.6 hours. In addition, the drug had a large volume of distribution, as demonstrated by both non-compartmental and compartmental analyses.

Non-compartmental analyses demonstrated that at the two dose levels studied, the drug exhibited dose-proportionality (AUC and Cmax values) (Table 3). The pharmacokinetic parameters estimated by compartmental analysis were similar to those calculated by non-compartmental methods.

The plasma concentration of circulating VIGIV was also compared to a theoretical value obtained from a model of previously licensed Baxter Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG) product at Day 5 after IV administration of VIGIV. Since Baxter VIG was administered intramuscularly (IM) and VIGIV is administered IV, the comparison was made at approximately five days to account for equilibration between the extravascular and intravascular compartments following IM injection.

The binding capacity and neutralizing antibody activity of anti-vaccinia antibody in these subjects five days after intravenous administration of VIGIV (both 6000 Units per kg and 9000 Units per kg dosages) were at least as high as the theoretical values that would be achieved following the intramuscular administration of the comparator VIG (see Table 4). Five days represents the approximate time of peak serum anti-vaccinia antibody concentration following intramuscular administration of other Immune Globulin (Human) products. No historical pharmacokinetic data are available for the theoretical intramuscular comparator VIG.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenicity, genotoxicity and fertility studies have not been conducted with VIGIV.

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

The efficacy of VIGIV against vaccinia virus in a mouse-tail lesion model was assessed. A range of doses of VIGIV and a previously licensed VIG were compared for their ability to reduce pox formation in this model.

Using this model, it was demonstrated that VIGIV exerted an in vivo protective effect against vaccinia infection when compared to a negative control. In addition, when using the mouse-tail lesion model with two different strains of vaccinia virus, it was observed that the protective effect of VIGIV appeared similar to that of the previously licensed VIG and a CBER reference standard.

A single study in rabbits has demonstrated increased corneal scarring upon intramuscular vaccinia immune globulin administration in vaccinia keratitis (7).

Since VIGIV is a product of human origin, secondary pharmacodynamics, safety pharmacology and pharmacodynamic drug interactions were not investigated in animals.

14.1 Pharmacodynamic Effect of VIGIV on Immune and Local Responses to Dryvax

In a randomized, single center, double-blind study with three parallel treatment arms, the efficacy of 9000 Units per kg of VIGIV on the immunologic and local response to the smallpox vaccine Dryvax was evaluated. Thirty-two healthy female and male subjects were randomized to receive single IV infusions of either VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) or Placebo (0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP) on Day 0, and either Placebo or VIGIV (9000 Units per kg) concurrently with vaccinia (Dryvax) vaccination on Day 4.

In this study, the curves for antibody titre vs. time were similar between administration of VIGIV four days prior to vaccination with Dryvax and concurrent administration of VIGIV with Dryvax.

Based on area under the effective time curve from Day 4 to 32 (AUEC4-32) results, the administration of VIGIV four days prior to vaccination with Dryvax slightly reduced the pox reaction and erythema area by 4 to 9% and 8 to 12%, respectively, as compared to the concurrent administration of VIGIV with the Dryvax vaccine, or with Dryvax alone.

In an additional randomized, single center, double-blind, study with five parallel treatment arms, the efficacy of two different doses of VIGIV (9000 Units per kg and 24,000 Units per kg) on the immunologic and local response to Dryvax was evaluated.

Fifty healthy subjects were randomized to receive a single IV infusion of either VIGIV (9000 Units per kg), VIGIV (24,000 Units per kg), or Placebo (0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP) on Day 0, and either placebo or vaccinia (Dryvax) vaccination on Day 4.

The administration of VIGIV four days prior to vaccinia vaccination decreased the endogenous immune response to Dryvax in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the mean pox reaction and erythema area diameters were smaller in size when 24,000 Units per kg of VIGIV was administered prior to vaccination with Dryvax compared to those when 9000 Units per kg of VIGIV was administered prior to vaccination with Dryvax or to those from administration of Dryvax alone. These data are consistent with the hypothesis of vaccinia virus neutralization in vivo by VIGIV.

16.1 How Supplied

NDC 60492-0173-1

The product is supplied as a 20 mL single dose vial containing ≥50,000 Units per vial. It is packaged in a shelf carton with 24 vials and four package inserts.

VIGIV does not contain natural rubber latex.

16.2 Storage and Handling

Product may be stored frozen at or below 5°F (≤-15°C) or refrigerated at 36 to 46°F (2 to 8°C); refer to label for appropriate storage conditions. Do not use after expiration date.

If product is received frozen, use within 60 days of thawing at 2 to 8°C. Begin intravenous infusion within 4 hours after entering the vial.

Do not reuse or save VIGIV for future use. This product contains no preservative; therefore, discard partially used vials.