Prescription Drug Information: Imatinib Mesylate (Page 2 of 7)

3 DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS

100 mg film-coated tablets

Dark yellow to brownish orange colored, film-coated tablets, round, biconvex with bevelled edges debossed with ‘S’ and ‘1’ on either side of break line on one side and plain on other side.

400 mg film-coated tablets

Dark yellow to brownish orange colored, film coated tablets, capsule shaped, biconvex with bevelled edges debossed with ‘S’ and ‘2’ on either side of break line on one side and plain on other side.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

None

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Fluid Retention and Edema

Imatinib mesylate is often associated with edema and occasionally serious fluid retention [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Weigh and monitor patients regularly for signs and symptoms of fluid retention. Investigate unexpected rapid weight gain carefully and provide appropriate treatment. The probability of edema was increased with higher imatinib mesylate dose and age greater than 65 years in the CML studies. Severe superficial edema was reported in 1.5% of newly diagnosed CML patients taking imatinib mesylate, and in 2% — 6% of other adult CML patients taking imatinib mesylate. In addition, other severe fluid retention (e.g., pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, pulmonary edema, and ascites) reactions were reported in 1.3% of newly diagnosed CML patients taking imatinib mesylate, and in 2%-6% of other adult CML patients taking imatinib mesylate. In a randomized trial in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML in chronic phase comparing imatinib mesylate and nilotinib, severe (Grade 3 or 4) fluid retention occurred in 2.5% of patients receiving imatinib mesylate and in 3.9% of patients receiving nilotinib 300 mg twice daily. Effusions (including pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, ascites) or pulmonary edema were observed in 2.1% (none were Grade 3 or 4) of patients in the imatinib mesylate arm and 2.2% (0.7% Grade 3 or 4) of patients in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily arm.

5.2 Hematologic Toxicity

Treatment with imatinib mesylate is associated with anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Perform complete blood counts weekly for the first month, biweekly for the second month, and periodically thereafter as clinically indicated (for example, every 2 to 3 months). In CML, the occurrence of these cytopenias is dependent on the stage of disease and is more frequent in patients with accelerated phase CML or blast crisis than in patients with chronic phase CML. In pediatric CML patients the most frequent toxicities observed were Grade 3 or 4 cytopenias including neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia. These generally occur within the first several months of therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.14) ].

5.3 Congestive Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Congestive heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction have been reported in patients taking imatinib mesylate. Cardiac adverse reactions were more frequent in patients with advanced age or co-morbidities including previous medical history of cardiac disease. In an international randomized phase 3 study in 1,106 patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase, severe cardiac failure and left ventricular dysfunction were observed in 0.7% of patients taking imatinib mesylate compared to 0.9% of patients taking IFN + Ara-C. In another randomized trial with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML patients in chronic phase that compared imatinib mesylate and nilotinib, cardiac failure was observed in 1.1% of patient in the imatinib mesylate arm and 2.2% of patients in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily arm and severe (Grade 3 or 4) cardiac failure occurred in 0.7% of patients in each group. Carefully monitor patients with cardiac disease or risk factors for cardiac or history of renal failure. Evaluate and treat any patient with signs or symptoms consistent with cardiac or renal failure.

5.4 Hepatotoxicity

Hepatotoxicity, occasionally severe, may occur with imatinib mesylate [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Cases of fatal liver failure and severe liver injury requiring liver transplants have been reported with both short-term and long-term use of imatinib mesylate. Monitor liver function (transaminases, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase) before initiation of treatment and monthly, or as clinically indicated. Manage laboratory abnormalities with imatinib mesylate interruption and/or dose reduction [see Dosage and Administration (2.13)]. When imatinib mesylate is combined with chemotherapy, liver toxicity in the form of transaminase elevation and hyperbilirubinemia has been observed. Additionally, there have been reports of acute liver failure. Monitoring of hepatic function is recommended.

5.5 Hemorrhage

In a trial of imatinib mesylate versus IFN+Ara-C in patients with the newly diagnosed CML, 1.8% of patients had Grade 3/4 hemorrhage. In a randomized trial in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase comparing imatinib mesylate and nilotinib, GI hemorrhage occurred in 1.4% of patients in the imatinib mesylate arm, and in 2.9% of patients in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily arm. None of these events were Grade 3 or 4 in the imatinib mesylate arm; 0.7% were Grade 3 or 4 in the nilotinib 300 mg twice daily arm. In addition, gastric antral vascular ectasia has been reported in postmarketing experience.

5.6 Gastrointestinal Disorders

Imatinib mesylate is sometimes associated with GI irritation. Imatinib mesylate should be taken with food and a large glass of water to minimize this problem. There have been rare reports, including fatalities, of gastrointestinal perforation.

5.7 Hypereosinophilic Cardiac Toxicity

In patients with hypereosinophilic syndrome with occult infiltration of HES cells within the myocardium, cases of cardiogenic shock/left ventricular dysfunction have been associated with HES cell degranulation upon the initiation of imatinib mesylate therapy. The condition was reported to be reversible with the administration of systemic steroids, circulatory support measures and temporarily withholding imatinib mesylate.

Myelodysplastic/ myeloproliferative disease and systemic mastocytosis may be associated with high eosinophil levels. Consider performing an echocardiogram and determining serum troponin in patients with HES/CEL, and in patients with MDS/MPD or ASM associated with high eosinophil levels. If either is abnormal, consider prophylactic use of systemic steroids (1 — 2 mg/kg) for one to two weeks concomitantly with imatinib mesylate at the initiation of therapy.

5.8 Dermatologic Toxicities

Bullous dermatologic reactions, including erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been reported with use of imatinib mesylate. In some cases of bullous dermatologic reactions, including erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome reported during Postmarketing surveillance, a recurrent dermatologic reaction was observed upon rechallenge. Several foreign post-marketing reports have described cases in which patients tolerated the reintroduction of imatinib mesylate therapy after resolution or improvement of the bullous reaction. In these instances, imatinib mesylate was resumed at a dose lower than that at which the reaction occurred and some patients also received concomitant treatment with corticosteroids or antihistamines.

5.9 Hypothyroidism

Clinical cases of hypothyroidism have been reported in thyroidectomy patients undergoing levothyroxine replacement during treatment with imatinib mesylate. Monitor TSH levels in such patients.

5.10 Embryo-fetal Toxicity

Imatinib mesylate can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Imatinib mesylate was teratogenic in rats when administered during organogenesis at doses approximately equal to the maximum human dose of 800 mg/day based on body surface area. Significant post-implantation loss was seen in female rats administered imatinib mesylate at doses approximately one-half the maximum human dose of 800 mg/day based on body surface area. Advise sexually active female patients of reproductive potential to use effective contraception (methods that result in less than 1% pregnancy rates) when using imatinib mesylate and for 14 days after stopping imatinib mesylate. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, apprise the patient of the potential hazard to a fetus [See Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ].

5.11 Growth Retardation in Children and Adolescents

Growth retardation has been reported in children and pre-adolescents receiving imatinib mesylate. The long term effects of prolonged treatment with imatinib mesylate on growth in children are unknown. Therefore, monitor growth in children under imatinib mesylate treatment. [See Adverse Reactions (6.1) ].

5.12 Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Cases of Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), including fatal cases, have been reported in patients with CML, ALL and eosinophilic leukemia receiving imatinib mesylate. The patients at risk of TLS are those with tumors having a high proliferative rate or high tumor burden prior to treatment. Monitor these patients closely and take appropriate precautions. Due to possible occurrence of TLS, correct clinically significant dehydration and treat high uric acid levels prior to initiation of imatinib mesylate.

5.13 Impairments Related to Driving and Using Machinery

Motor vehicle accidents have been reported in patients receiving imatinib mesylate. Advise patients that they may experience side effects such as dizziness, blurred vision or somnolence during treatment with imatinib mesylate. Recommend caution when driving a car or operating machinery.

5.14 Renal Toxicity

A decline in renal function may occur in patients receiving imatinib mesylate. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values in patients on imatinib mesylate 400 mg daily for newly-diagnosed CML (four randomized trials) and another clinical trial declined from a baseline value of 85 ml/min/1.73m2 (N=1190) to 75 ml/min/1.73m2 at 12 months (N=1082) and 69 ml/min/1.73m2 at 60 months (N=549). Evaluate renal function prior to initiating imatinib mesylate and monitor during therapy, with attention to risk factors for renal dysfunction such as pre-existing renal impairment, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and congestive heart failure.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Fluid Retention and Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
  • Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
  • Congestive Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
  • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
  • Hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
  • Hypereosinophilic Cardiac Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
  • Dermatologic Toxicities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]
  • Hypothyroidism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
  • Growth Retardation in Children and Adolescents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)]
  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]
  • Impairments Related to Driving and Using Machinery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)]
  • Renal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)]

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.

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

The majority of imatinib mesylate -treated patients experienced adverse reactions at some time. Imatinib mesylate was discontinued due to drug-related adverse reactions in 2.4% of patients receiving imatinib mesylate in the randomized trial of newly diagnosed patients with Ph+ CML in chronic phase comparing imatinib mesylate versus IFN+Ara-C, and in 12.5% of patients receiving imatinib mesylate in the randomized trial of newly diagnosed patients with Ph+ CML in chronic phase comparing imatinib mesylate and nilotinib. Imatinib mesylate was discontinued due to drug-related adverse reactions in 4% of patients in chronic phase after failure of interferon-alpha therapy, in 4% of patients in accelerated phase and in 5% of patients in blast crisis.

The most frequently reported drug-related adverse reactions were edema, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, musculoskeletal pain, diarrhea and rash (Table 2 and Table 3 for newly diagnosed CML, Table 4 for other CML patients). Edema was most frequently periorbital or in lower limbs and was managed with diuretics, other supportive measures, or by reducing the dose of imatinib mesylate [see Dosage and Administration (2.13) ]. The frequency of severe superficial edema was 1.5% — 6%.

A variety of adverse reactions represent local or general fluid retention including pleural effusion, ascites, pulmonary edema and rapid weight gain with or without superficial edema. These reactions appear to be dose related, were more common in the blast crisis and accelerated phase studies (where the dose was 600 mg/day), and are more common in the elderly. These reactions were usually managed by interrupting imatinib mesylate treatment and using diuretics or other appropriate supportive care measures. These reactions may be serious or life threatening.

Adverse reactions, regardless of relationship to study drug, that were reported in at least 10% of the imatinib mesylate treated patients are shown in Tables 2, 3 and 4.

Table 2: Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Reported in Newly Diagnosed CML Clinical Trial in the Imatinib Mesylate versus IFN+Ara-C Study (greater than or equal to 10% of imatinib mesylate Treated Patients)(1)

All Grades CTC Grades 3/4
Imatinib mesylate IFN+Ara−C Imatinib mesylate IFN+Ara−C
Preferred Term N = 551 (%) N = 533 (%) N = 551 (%) N = 533 (%)
Fluid Retention 61.7 11.1 2.5 0.9
− Superficial Edema 59.9 9.6 1.5 0.4
− Other Fluid Retention Reactions(2) 6.9 1.9 1.3 0.6
Nausea 49.5 61.5 1.3 5.1
Muscle Cramps 49.2 11.8 2.2 0.2
Musculoskeletal Pain 47.0 44.8 5.4 8.6
Diarrhea 45.4 43.3 3.3 3.2
Rash and Related Terms 40.1 26.1 2.9 2.4
Fatigue 38.8 67.0 1.8 25.1
Headache 37.0 43.3 0.5 3.8
Joint Pain 31.4 38.1 2.5 7.7
Abdominal Pain 36.5 25.9 4.2 3.9
Nasopharyngitis 30.5 8.8 0 0.4
Hemorrhage 28.9 21.2 1.8 1.7
– GI Hemorrhage 1.6 1.1 0.5 0.2
– CNS Hemorrhage 0.2 0.4 0 0.4
Myalgia 24.1 38.8 1.5 8.3
Vomiting 22.5 27.8 2.0 3.4
Dyspepsia 18.9 8.3 0 0.8
Cough 20.0 23.1 0.2 0.6
Pharyngolaryngeal Pain 18.1 11.4 0.2 0
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 21.2 8.4 0.2 0.4
Dizziness 19.4 24.4 0.9 3.8
Pyrexia 17.8 42.6 0.9 3.0
Weight Increased 15.6 2.6 2.0 0.4
Insomnia 14.7 18.6 0 2.3
Depression 14.9 35.8 0.5 13.1
Influenza 13.8 6.2 0.2 0.2
Bone Pain 11.3 15.6 1.6 3.4
Constipation 11.4 14.4 0.7 0.2
Sinusitis 11.4 6.0 0.2 0.2

(1) All adverse reactions occurring in greater than or equal to 10% of imatinib mesylate treated patients are listed regardless of suspected relationship to treatment.

(2) Other fluid retention reactions include pleural effusion, ascites, pulmonary edema, pericardial effusion, anasarca, edema aggravated, and fluid retention not otherwise specified.

Table 3: Most Frequently Reported Non-hematologic Adverse Reactions (Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug) in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP in the Imatinib Mesylate versus nilotinib Study (greater than or equal to 10% in Imatinib Mesylate Tablets 400 mg Once-Daily or nilotinib 300 mg Twice-Daily Groups) 60-Month Analysisa

Patients with Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP
imatinib mesylate tablet 400 mg once-daily N=280 nilotinib 300 mg twice-daily N=279 imatinib mesylate tablet 400 mg once-daily N=280 nilotinib 300 mg twice-daily N=279
Body System and Preferred Term All Grades (%) CTC Gradesb 3/4 (%)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Rash 19 38 2 <1
Pruritus 7 21 0 <1
Alopecia 7 13 0 0
Dry skin 6 12 0 0
Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea 41 22 2 2
Constipation 8 20 0 <1
Diarrhea 46 19 4 1
Vomiting 27 15 <1 <1
Abdominal pain upper 14 18 <1 1
Abdominal pain 12 15 0 2
Dyspepsia 12 10 0 0
Nervous system disorders Headache 23 32 <1 3
Dizziness 11 12 <1 <1
General disorders and administration site conditions Fatigue 20 23 1 1
Pyrexia 13 14 0 <1
Asthenia 12 14 0 <1
Peripheral edema 20 9 0 <1
Face edema 14 <1 <1 0
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Myalgia 19 19 <1 <1
Arthralgia 17 22 <1 <1
Muscle spasms 34 12 1 0
Pain in extremity 16 15 <1 <1
Back pain 17 19 1 1
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Cough 13 17 0 0
Oropharyngeal pain 6 12 0 0
Dyspnea 6 11 <1 2
Infections and infestations Nasopharyngitis 21 27 0 0
Upper respiratory tract infection 14 17 0 <1
Influenza 9 13 0 0
Gastroenteritis 10 7 <1 0
Eye disorders Eyelid edema 19 1 <1 0
Periorbital edema 15 <1 0 0
Psychiatric disorders Insomnia 9 11 0 0
Vascular disorder Hypertension 4 10 <1 1
a Excluding laboratory abnormalitiesb NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, Version 3.0

Table 4: Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Reported in Other CML Clinical Trials (greater than or equal to 10% of All Patients in any Trial)(1)

Myeloid Blast Crisis Accelerated Phase Chronic Phase, IFN Failure
(n = 260) (n = 235) (n = 532)
% % %
Preferred Term All Grades Grade 3/4 All Grades Grade 3/4 All Grades Grade 3/4
Fluid Retention 72 11 76 6 69 4
-Superficial Edema 66 6 74 3 67 2
-Other Fluid Retention
Reactions (2) 22 6 15 4 7 2
Nausea 71 5 73 5 63 3
Muscle Cramps 28 1 47 0.4 62 2
Vomiting 54 4 58 3 36 2
Diarrhea 43 4 57 5 48 3
Hemorrhage 53 19 49 11 30 2
— CNS Hemorrhage 9 7 3 3 2 1
— GI Hemorrhage 8 4 6 5 2 0.4
Musculoskeletal Pain 42 9 49 9 38 2
Fatigue 30 4 46 4 48 1
Skin Rash 36 5 47 5 47 3
Pyrexia 41 7 41 8 21 2
Arthralgia 25 5 34 6 40 1
Headache 27 5 32 2 36 0.6
Abdominal Pain 30 6 33 4 32 1
Weight Increased 5 1 17 5 32 7
Cough 14 0.8 27 0.9 20 0
Dyspepsia 12 0 22 0 27 0
Myalgia 9 0 24 2 27 0.2
Nasopharyngitis 10 0 17 0 22 0.2
Asthenia 18 5 21 5 15 0.2
Dyspnea 15 4 21 7 12 0.9
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 3 0 12 0.4 19 0
Anorexia 14 2 17 2 7 0
Night Sweats 13 0.8 17 1 14 0.2
Constipation 16 2 16 0.9 9 0.4
Dizziness 12 0.4 13 0 16 0.2
Pharyngitis 10 0 12 0 15 0
Insomnia 10 0 14 0 14 0.2
Pruritus 8 1 14 0.9 14 0.8
Hypokalemia 13 4 9 2 6 0.8
Pneumonia 13 7 10 7 4 1
Anxiety 8 0.8 12 0 8 0.4
Liver Toxicity 10 5 12 6 6 3
Rigors 10 0 12 0.4 10 0
Chest Pain 7 2 10 0.4 11 0.8
Influenza 0.8 0.4 6 0 11 0.2
Sinusitis 4 0.4 11 0.4 9 0.4
(1) All adverse reactions occurring in greater than or equal to 10% of patients are listed regardless of suspected relationship to treatment. (2) Other fluid retention reactions include pleural effusion, ascites, pulmonary edema, pericardial effusion, anasarca, edema aggravated, and fluid retention not otherwise specified.

Hematologic and Biochemistry Laboratory Abnormalities

Cytopenias, and particularly neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, were a consistent finding in all studies, with a higher frequency at doses greater than or equal to 750 mg (Phase 1 study). The occurrence of cytopenias in CML patients was also dependent on the stage of the disease.

In patients with newly diagnosed CML, cytopenias were less frequent than in the other CML patients (see Tables 5, 6, and 7). The frequency of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia was between 2-and 3-fold higher in blast crisis and accelerated phase compared to chronic phase (see Tables 4 and 5). The median duration of the neutropenic and thrombocytopenic episodes varied from 2 to 3 weeks, and from 2 to 4 weeks, respectively.

These reactions can usually be managed with either a reduction of the dose or an interruption of treatment with imatinib mesylate, but may require permanent discontinuation of treatment.

Table 5: Laboratory Abnormalities in Newly Diagnosed CML Clinical Trial (Imatinib Mesylate versus IFN+Ara-C)

Imatinib mesylate N = 551 % IFN+Ara-C N = 533 %
CTC Grades Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 3 Grade 4
Hematology Parameters*
− Neutropenia* 13.1 3.6 20.8 4.5
− Thrombocytopenia* 8.5 0.4 15.9 0.6
− Anemia 3.3 1.1 4.1 0.2
Biochemistry Parameters
− Elevated Creatinine 0 0 0.4 0
− Elevated Bilirubin 0.9 0.2 0.2 0
− Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase 0.2 0 0.8 0
− Elevated SGOT /SGPT 4.7 0.5 7.1 0.4
*p < 0.001 (difference in Grade 3 plus 4 abnormalities between the two treatment groups)

Table 6: Percent Incidence of Clinically Relevant Grade 3/4* Laboratory Abnormalities in the Newly Diagnosed CML Clinical Trial (Imatinib Mesylate versus nilotinib).

Imatinib mesylate tablet 400 mg once-daily N=280 (%) nilotinib 300 mg twice-daily N=279 (%)
Hematologic Parameters Thrombocytopenia 9 10
Neutropenia 22 12
Anemia 6 4
Biochemistry Parameters
Elevated lipase 4 9
Hyperglycemia <1 7
Hypophosphatemia 10 8
Elevated bilirubin (total) <1 4
Elevated SGPT (ALT) 3 4
Hyperkalemia 1 2
Hyponatremia <1 1
Hypokalemia 2 <1
Elevated SGOT (AST) 1 1
Decreased albumin <1 0
Hypocalcemia <1 <1
Elevated alkaline phosphatase <1 0
Elevated creatinine <1 0
*NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0

Table 7: Laboratory Abnormalities in Other CML Clinical Trials

Myeloid Blast Crisis (n = 260) 600 mg n = 223 400 mg n = 37 % Accelerated Phase (n = 235) 600 mg n = 158 400 mg n = 77 % Chronic Phase, IFN Failure (n = 532) 400 mg %
CTC Grades1 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 3 Grade 4
Hematology Parameters
− Neutropenia 16 48 23 36 27 9
− Thrombocytopenia 30 33 31 13 21 < 1
− Anemia 42 11 34 7 6 1
Biochemistry Parameters
− Elevated Creatinine 1.5 0 1.3 0 0.2 0
− Elevated Bilirubin 3.8 0 2.1 0 0.6 0
− Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase 4.6 0 5.5 0.4 0.2 0
− Elevated SGOT (AST) 1.9 0 3.0 0 2.3 0
− Elevated SGPT (ALT) 2.3 0.4 4.3 0 2.1 0
1 CTC Grades: neutropenia (Grade 3 greater than or equal to 0.5 to 1.0 x 109 /L, Grade 4 < 0.5 x 109 /L), thrombocytopenia (Grade 3 greater than or equal to 10 — 50 x 109 /L, Grade 4 less than 10 x 109 /L), anemia (hemoglobin greater than or equal to 65 — 80 g/L, Grade 4 less than 65 g/L), elevated creatinine (Grade 3 greater than 3 — 6 x upper limit normal range [ULN], Grade 4 greater than 6 x ULN), elevated bilirubin (Grade 3 greater than 3 — 10 x ULN, Grade 4 greater than 10 x ULN), elevated alkaline phosphatase (Grade 3 greater than 5 — 20 x ULN, Grade 4 greater than 20 x ULN), elevated SGOT or SGPT (Grade 3 greater than 5 — 20 x ULN, Grade 4 greater than 20 x ULN)

Hepatotoxicity

Severe elevation of transaminases or bilirubin occurred in approximately 5% of CML patients (see Tables 6 and 7) and were usually managed with dose reduction or interruption (the median duration of these episodes was approximately 1 week). Treatment was discontinued permanently because of liver laboratory abnormalities in less than 1.0% of CML patients. One patient, who was taking acetaminophen regularly for fever, died of acute liver failure.

Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Population

Single agent therapy

The overall safety profile of pediatric patients treated with imatinib mesylate in 93 children studied was similar to that found in studies with adult patients, except that musculoskeletal pain was less frequent (20.5%) and peripheral edema was not reported. Nausea and vomiting were the most commonly reported individual adverse reactions with an incidence similar to that seen in adult patients. Most patients experienced adverse reactions at some time during the study. The incidence of Grade 3/4 events across all types of adverse reactions was 75%; the events with the highest Grade 3/4 incidence in CML pediatric patients were mainly related to myelosuppression.

Adverse Reactions in Other Subpopulations

In older patients (greater than or equal to 65 years old), with the exception of edema, where it was more frequent, there was no evidence of an increase in the incidence or severity of adverse reactions. In women there was an increase in the frequency of neutropenia, as well as Grade 1/2 superficial edema, headache, nausea, rigors, vomiting, rash, and fatigue. No differences were seen that were related to race but the subsets were too small for proper evaluation.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The adverse reactions were similar for Ph+ ALL as for Ph+ CML. The most frequently reported drug-related adverse reactions reported in the Ph+ ALL studies were mild nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, myalgia, muscle cramps and rash. Superficial edema was a common finding in all studies and were described primarily as periorbital or lower limb edemas. These edemas were reported as Grade 3/4 events in 6.3% of the patients and may be managed with diuretics, other supportive measures, or in some patients by reducing the dose of imatinib mesylate.

Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Diseases

Adverse reactions, regardless of relationship to study drug, that were reported in at least 10% of the patients treated with imatinib mesylate for MDS/MPD in the phase 2 study, are shown in Table 9.

Table 9: Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Reported (More than One Patient) in MPD Patients in the Phase 2 Study (Greater than or equal to 10% All Patients) All Grades

Preferred Term N = 7 n (%)
Nausea 4 (57.1)
Diarrhea 3 (42.9)
Anemia 2 (28.6)
Fatigue 2 (28.6)
Muscle Cramp 3 (42.9)
Arthralgia 2 (28.6)
Periorbital Edema 2 (28.6)

Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis

All ASM patients experienced at least one adverse reaction at some time. The most frequently reported adverse reactions were diarrhea, nausea, ascites, muscle cramps, dyspnea, fatigue, peripheral edema, anemia, pruritus, rash and lower respiratory tract infection. None of the 5 patients in the phase 2 study with ASM discontinued imatinib mesylate due to drug-related adverse reactions or abnormal laboratory values.

Hypereosinophilic Syndrome and Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia

The safety profile in the HES/CEL patient population does not appear to be different from the safety profile of imatinib mesylate observed in other hematologic malignancy populations, such as Ph+ CML. All patients experienced at least one adverse reaction, the most common being gastrointestinal, cutaneous and musculoskeletal disorders. Hematological abnormalities were also frequent, with instances of CTC Grade 3 leukopenia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, and anemia.

Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans

Adverse reactions, regardless of relationship to study drug, that were reported in at least 10% of the 12 patients treated with imatinib mesylate for DFSP in the phase 2 study are shown in Table 10.

Table 10: Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Reported in DFSP Patients in the Phase 2 Study ( greater than or equal to 10% All Patients) All Grades

Preferred term N = 12 n (%)
Nausea 5 (41.7)
Diarrhea 3 (25.0)
Vomiting 3 (25.0)
Periorbital Edema 4 (33.3)
Face Edema 2 (16.7)
Rash 3 (25.0)
Fatigue 5 (41.7)
Edema Peripheral 4 (33.3)
Pyrexia 2 (16.7)
Eye Edema 4 (33.3)
Lacrimation Increased 3 (25.0)
Dyspnea Exertional 2 (16.7)
Anemia 3 (25.0)
Rhinitis 2 (16.7)
Anorexia 2 (16.7)

Clinically relevant or severe laboratory abnormalities in the 12 patients treated with imatinib mesylate for DFSP in the phase 2 study are presented in Table 11.

Table 11: Laboratory Abnormalities Reported in DFSP Patients in the Phase 2 Study

N = 12
CTC Grades 1 Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)
Hematology Parameters
– Anemia 17 0
– Thrombocytopenia 17 0
– Neutropenia 0 8
Biochemistry Parameters
– Elevated Creatinine 0 8
1 CTC Grades: neutropenia (Grade 3 greater than or equal to 0.5 – 1.0 x 109 /L, Grade 4 less than 0.5 x 109 /L), thrombocytopenia (Grade 3 greater than or equal to 10 — 50 x 109 /L, Grade 4 less than 10 x 109 /L), anemia (Grade 3 greater than or equal to 65 — 80 g/L, Grade 4 less than 65 g/L), elevated creatinine (Grade 3 greater than 3 — 6 x upper limit normal range [ULN], Grade 4 greater than 6 x ULN)

Adverse Reactions from Multiple Clinical Trials

Cardiac Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: palpitations, pericardial effusion

Estimated 0.1%–1%: congestive cardiac failure, tachycardia, pulmonary edema

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris

Vascular Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: flushing, hemorrhage

Estimated 0.1%–1%: hypertension, hypotension, peripheral coldness, Raynaud’s phenomenon, hematoma, subdural hematoma

Investigations:

Estimated 1%–10%: blood CPK increased, blood amylase increased

Estimated 0.1%–1%: blood LDH increased

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: dry skin, alopecia, face edema, erythema, photosensitivity reaction, nail disorder, purpura

Estimated 0.1%–1%: exfoliative dermatitis, bullous eruption, psoriasis, rash pustular, contusion, sweating increased, urticaria, ecchymosis, increased tendency to bruise, hypotrichosis, skin hypopigmentation, skin hyperpigmentation, onychoclasis, folliculitis, petechiae, erythema multiforme

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: vesicular rash, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis (Sweet’s syndrome), nail discoloration, angioneurotic edema, leucocytoclastic vasculitis

Gastrointestinal Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: abdominal distention, gastroesophageal reflux, dry mouth, gastritis

Estimated 0.1%–1%: gastric ulcer, stomatitis, mouth ulceration, eructation, melena, esophagitis, ascites, hematemesis, chelitis, dysphagia, pancreatitis

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: colitis, ileus, inflammatory bowel disease

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions:

Estimated 1%–10%: weakness, anasarca, chills

Estimated 0.1%–1%: malaise

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: pancytopenia, febrile neutropenia, lymphopenia, eosinophilia

Estimated 0.1%–1%: thrombocythemia, bone marrow depression, lymphadenopathy

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia

Hepatobiliary Disorders:

Estimated 0.1%–1%: hepatitis, jaundice

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: hepatic failure and hepatic necrosis1

Immune System Disorders:

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: angioedema

Infections and Infestations:

Estimated 0.1%–1%: sepsis, herpes simplex, herpes zoster, cellulitis, urinary tract infection, gastroenteritis

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: fungal infection

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: weight decreased, decreased appetite

Estimated 0.1%–1%: dehydration, gout, increased appetite, hyperuricemia, hypercalcemia, hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypomagnesemia


Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: joint swelling

Estimated 0.1%–1%: joint and muscle stiffness, muscular weakness, arthritis

Nervous System/Psychiatric Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: paresthesia, hypesthesia

Estimated 0.1%–1%: syncope, peripheral neuropathy, somnolence, migraine, memory impairment, libido decreased, sciatica, restless leg syndrome, tremor

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: increased intracranial pressure1 , confusional state, convulsions, optic neuritis

Renal and Urinary Disorders:

Estimated 0.1%–1%: renal failure acute, urinary frequency increased, hematuria, renal pain

Reproductive System and Breast Disorders:

Estimated 0.1%–1%: breast enlargement, menorrhagia, sexual dysfunction, gynecomastia, erectile dysfunction, menstruation irregular, nipple pain, scrotal edema

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: epistaxis

Estimated 0.1%–1%: pleural effusion

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pleuritic pain, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary hemorrhage

Eye, Ear and Labyrinth Disorders:

Estimated 1%–10%: conjunctivitis, vision blurred, orbital edema, conjunctival hemorrhage, dry eye

Estimated 0.1%–1%: vertigo, tinnitus, eye irritation, eye pain, scleral hemorrhage, retinal hemorrhage, blepharitis, macular edema, hearing loss, cataract

Estimated 0.01%–0.1%: papilledema1 , glaucoma

1 Including some fatalities

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