Vabomere Injection: Package Insert / Prescribing Info

1.1. Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI), including Pyelonephritis

VABOMERE® is indicated for the treatment of patients 18 years of age and older with complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) including pyelonephritis caused by the following susceptible microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter cloacae species complex.

1.2. Usage

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of VABOMERE and other antibacterial drugs, VABOMERE should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

2.1 Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage of VABOMERE is 4 grams (meropenem 2 grams and vaborbactam 2 grams) administered every 8 hours by intravenous (IV) infusion over 3 hours in patients 18 years of age and older with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) greater than or equal to 50 mL/min/1.73m2. The duration of treatment is for up to 14 days.

2.2 Dosage Adjustments in Patients with Renal Impairment

Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with renal impairment who have an eGFR less than 50 mL/min/1.73m2. The recommended dosage of VABOMERE in patients with varying degrees of renal function is presented in Table 1. For patients with changing renal function, monitor serum creatinine concentrations and eGFR at least daily and adjust the dosage of VABOMERE accordingly [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Meropenem and vaborbactam are removed by hemodialysis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. For patients maintained on hemodialysis, administer VABOMERE after a hemodialysis session.

2.3 Preparation and Administration of VABOMERE for Intravenous Infusion

2.4 Drug Compatibility

VABOMERE solution for administration by 3-hour infusion is only compatible with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP.

Compatibility of VABOMERE solution for administration with other drugs has not been established.

5.1 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions were reported in patients treated with VABOMERE in the clinical trials [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions and serious skin reactions have been reported in patients receiving therapy with beta-lactam antibacterial drugs. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. There have been reports of individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity who have experienced severe hypersensitivity reactions when treated with another beta-lactam antibacterial drug. Before initiating therapy with VABOMERE, it is important to inquire about previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins, other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs, and other allergens. If an allergic reaction to VABOMERE occurs, discontinue the drug immediately.

5.2 Seizure Potential

Seizures and other adverse Central Nervous System (CNS) experiences have been reported during treatment with meropenem, which is a component of VABOMERE. These experiences have occurred most commonly in patients with CNS disorders (e.g., brain lesions or history of seizures) or with bacterial meningitis and/or compromised renal function [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Close adherence to the recommended dosage regimens is urged, especially in patients with known factors that predispose to convulsive activity. Continue anti-convulsant therapy in patients with known seizure disorders. If focal tremors, myoclonus, or seizures occur, evaluate neurologically, place on anti-convulsant therapy if not already instituted, and reexamine the dosage of VABOMERE to determine whether it should be decreased or discontinued.

5.3 Clostridioides difficile-associated Diarrhea

Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including VABOMERE, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.

C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin-producing isolates of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial drug use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.

If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial drug treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

5.4 Risk of Breakthrough Seizures Due to Drug Interaction with Valproic Acid

The concomitant use of VABOMERE and valproic acid or divalproex sodium is generally not recommended. Case reports in the literature have shown that co-administration of carbapenems, including meropenem, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in a reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as a result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. Increasing the dose of valproic acid or divalproex sodium may not be sufficient to overcome this interaction. Consider administration of antibacterial drugs other than carbapenems to treat infections in patients whose seizures are well controlled on valproic acid or divalproex sodium. If administration of VABOMERE is necessary, consider supplemental anticonvulsant therapy [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

5.5 Thrombocytopenia

In patients with renal impairment, thrombocytopenia has been observed in patients treated with meropenem, but no clinical bleeding has been reported [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.5) and (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.6 Potential for Neuromotor Impairment

Alert patients receiving VABOMERE on an outpatient basis regarding adverse reactions such as seizures, delirium, headaches and/or paresthesias that could interfere with mental alertness and/or cause motor impairment. Until it is reasonably well established that VABOMERE is well tolerated, advise patients not to operate machinery or motorized vehicles [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.7 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria

Prescribing VABOMERE in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of drug-resistant bacteria [see Indications and Usage (1.2)].

5.8 Overgrowth of Non-susceptible Organisms

As with other antibacterial drugs, prolonged use of VABOMERE may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms. Repeated evaluation of the patient is essential. If superinfection does occur during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken.

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.

VABOMERE was evaluated in a Phase 3 comparator-controlled clinical trial in cUTI, including pyelonephritis, which included 272 patients treated with VABOMERE and 273 patients treated with the comparator piperacillin/tazobactam 4.5 grams (piperacillin 4 g/tazobactam 0.5 g) every 8 hours. After a minimum of 15 doses of IV therapy, patients could be switched to oral levofloxacin (500 mg daily every 24 hours) to complete the treatment course. Mean duration of IV therapy was 8 days in both treatment groups. Mean duration of IV and oral therapy was 10 days; patients with baseline bacteremia could receive up to 14 days of treatment.

The mean age of patients treated with VABOMERE was 53 years (range 18 to 92 years), and 32% of patients were 65 years of age or older. Patients were predominantly female (66.5%) and White (93.4%). Most patients were enrolled in Europe (89.7%).

7.1 Valproic Acid

Case reports in the literature have shown that co-administration of carbapenems, including meropenem, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in a reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as a result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. Although the mechanism of this interaction is unknown, data from in vitro and animal studies suggest that carbapenems may inhibit the hydrolysis of valproic acid's glucuronide metabolite (VPA-g) back to valproic acid, thus decreasing the serum concentrations of valproic acid. If administration of VABOMERE is necessary, then supplemental anti-convulsant therapy should be considered [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

7.2 Probenecid

Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, resulting in increased plasma concentrations of meropenem. Co-administration of probenecid with VABOMERE is not recommended [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.3 Potential for VABOMERE to Affect Other Drugs

When administering VABOMERE concomitantly with medicinal products that are predominantly metabolized by CYP1A2, CYP3A4, CYP2C, and/or are substrates of P-gp transporters, there is a potential risk of interaction which may result in decreased plasma concentrations and activity of the co-administered drug(s) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. When VABOMERE is concomitantly administered with the substrates of CYP1A2, CYP3A4, CYP2C, and/or P-gp, refer to the prescribing information for these concomitant medications for guidance on need for dosage adjustments and/or need for frequent drug level monitoring when administered with a weak CYP inducer(s).

When administering VABOMERE concomitantly with medicinal products that are substrate of OAT3 transporters, there is a potential risk of interaction which may result in increased plasma concentrations and activity of the co-administered drug(s) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. When VABOMERE is concomitantly administered with OAT3 substrate(s), refer to the prescribing information for these concomitant medication(s) for guidance on need for dosage adjustments and/or need for frequent drug level monitoring when administered with an OAT3 inhibitor(s).

7.4 Hormonal Contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives (e.g., combined oral contraceptives containing a progestin and an estrogen) are metabolized by CYP3A and other pregnane X receptor (PXR)-regulated enzymes. Therefore, the blood concentration and the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced when used with VABOMERE [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Effective alternative non-hormonal forms of contraception or additional contraceptive methods are recommended for patients taking hormonal contraceptives when treated concomitantly with VABOMERE [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.1 Pregnancy

8.2 Lactation

Meropenem has been reported to be excreted in human milk. It is unknown whether vaborbactam is excreted in human milk. No information is available on the effects of meropenem and vaborbactam on the breast-fed child or on milk production.

The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for VABOMERE and any potential adverse effects on the breast-fed child from VABOMERE or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.3 Females and Males of Childbearing Potential

Use of VABOMERE may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Advise patients taking hormonal contraceptives to use an effective alternative non-hormonal contraception or additional contraceptive method (e.g., barrier method of contraception) during treatment with VABOMERE [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of VABOMERE in pediatric patients (younger than 18 years of age) has not been established. Studies of VABOMERE have not been conducted in patients younger than 18 years of age.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the 272 patients treated with VABOMERE in the Phase 3 cUTI trial, 48 (18%) patients were 65 years of age and older, while 39 (14%) patients were 75 years of age and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Meropenem, a component of VABOMERE, is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with renal impairment. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.

Population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis found no clinically relevant change in pharmacokinetic parameters in elderly patients. No dosage adjustment based on age is required. Dosage adjustment for elderly patients should be based on renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

Pharmacokinetic studies conducted with meropenem and vaborbactam in subjects with renal impairment have shown that the plasma exposures of both meropenem and vaborbactam increased with decreasing renal function [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Dosage adjustment for VABOMERE is recommended in patients with renal impairment (eGFR less than 50 mL/min/1.73m2) [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

For patients with changing renal function, monitor serum creatinine concentrations and eGFR at least daily and adjust the dosage of VABOMERE accordingly. Meropenem and vaborbactam are removed by hemodialysis. Following a single dose of VABOMERE, vaborbactam exposure was substantially greater when VABOMERE was administered after hemodialysis than before hemodialysis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

VABOMERE is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Similar to other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs, the percentage of time of a dosing interval that unbound plasma concentration of meropenem exceeds the meropenem-vaborbactam minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against the infecting organism has been shown to best correlate with efficacy in animal and in vitro models of infection. The ratio of the 24-hour unbound plasma vaborbactam AUC to meropenem-vaborbactam MIC is the index that best predicts efficacy of vaborbactam in combination with meropenem in animal and in vitro models of infection.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

12.4 Microbiology

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

14.1 Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI), including Pyelonephritis

A total of 545 adults with cUTI, including pyelonephritis were randomized into a double-blind, double dummy, multi-center trial comparing VABOMERE (meropenem 2 grams and vaborbactam 2 grams) to piperacillin/tazobactam (piperacillin 4 grams/tazobactam 0.5 grams) intravenously every 8 hours. Switch to an oral antibacterial drug, such as levofloxacin was allowed after a minimum of 15 doses of IV therapy.

The microbiologically modified intent to treat population (m-MITT) included all randomized patients who received any study drug and had at least 1 baseline uropathogen. Clinical and microbiological response at the end of IV treatment (EOIVT) required both a clinical outcome of cure or improvement and a microbiologic outcome of eradication (all baseline uropathogens at >105 CFU/mL are to be reduced to <104 CFU/mL). Clinical and microbiological response was also assessed at the Test of Cure (TOC) visit (approximately 7 days after completion of treatment) in the m-MITT population and required both a clinical outcome of cure and a microbiological outcome of eradication.

Patient demographic and baseline characteristics were balanced between treatment groups in the m-MITT population. Approximately 93% of patients were Caucasian and 66% were females in both treatment groups. The mean age was 54 years with 32% and 42% patients greater than 65 years of age in VABOMERE and piperacillin/tazobactam treatment groups, respectively. Mean body mass index was approximately 26.5 kg/m2 in both treatment groups. Concomitant bacteremia was identified in 12 (6%) and 15 (8%) patients at baseline in VABOMERE and piperacillin/tazobactam treatment groups respectively. The proportion of patients with diabetes mellitus at baseline was 17% and 19% in VABOMERE and piperacillin/tazobactam treatment groups, respectively. The majority of patients (approximately 90%) were enrolled from Europe, and approximately 2% of patients were enrolled from North America. Overall, in both treatment groups, 59% of patients had pyelonephritis and 40% had cUTI, with 21% and 19% of patients having a non-removable and removable source of infection, respectively.

Mean duration of IV treatment in both treatment groups was 8 days and mean total treatment duration (IV and oral) was 10 days; patients with baseline bacteremia could receive up to 14 days of therapy. Approximately 10% of patients in each treatment group in the m-MITT population had a levofloxacin-resistant pathogen at baseline and received levofloxacin as the oral switch therapy. This protocol violation may have impacted the assessment of the outcomes at the TOC visit. These patients were not excluded from the analysis presented in Table 6, as the decision to switch to oral levofloxacin was based on post-randomization factors.

VABOMERE demonstrated efficacy with regard to clinical and microbiological response at the EOIVT visit and TOC visits in the m-MITT population as shown in Table 6.

In the m-MITT population, the rate of clinical and microbiological response in VABOMERE- treated patients with concurrent bacteremia at baseline was 10/12 (83.3%).

In a subset of the E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates, genotypic testing identified certain ESBL groups (e.g., TEM, CTX-M, SHV and OXA) in both treatment groups of the Phase 3 cUTI trial. The rates of clinical and microbiological response were similar in the ESBL-positive and ESBL-negative subset at EOIVT; at TOC, clinical and microbiological response was lower in the ESBL-positive as compared to ESBL-negative subset in both treatment groups.

Store VABOMERE vials at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions are permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP, Controlled Room Temperature (CRT)].

Serious Allergic Reactions

Advise patients that allergic reactions, including serious allergic reactions, could occur and that serious reactions require immediate treatment. Ask patient about any previous hypersensitivity reactions to VABOMERE (meropenem and vaborbactam), penicillins, cephalosporins, other beta-lactams, or other allergens [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Seizures

Patients receiving VABOMERE on an outpatient basis must be alerted of adverse events such as seizures, delirium, headaches and/or paresthesias that could interfere with mental alertness and/or cause motor impairment. Until it is reasonably well established that VABOMERE is well tolerated, patients should not operate machinery or motorized vehicles [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Potentially Serious Diarrhea

Counsel patients that diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterial drugs including VABOMERE, which usually ends when the antibacterial drug is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibacterial drugs, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibacterial drug. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Interaction with Valproic Acid

Counsel patients to inform their physician if they are taking valproic acid or divalproex sodium. Valproic acid concentrations in the blood may drop below the therapeutic range upon co-administration with VABOMERE. If treatment with VABOMERE is necessary and continued, alternative or supplemental anti-convulsant medication to prevent and/or treat seizures may be needed [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Interaction with Hormonal Contraceptives

Advise patients that administration of VABOMERE may reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. Instruct patients to use effective alternative or back-up methods of contraception (such as condoms and spermicides) during treatment with VABOMERE [see Drug Interactions (7.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Antibacterial Resistance

Counsel patients that antibacterial drugs, including VABOMERE, should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When VABOMERE is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, tell patients that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, take the medication exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by VABOMERE or other antibacterial drugs in the future [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].