Alvaiz

Treatment ofThrombocytopenia in Patients with Persistent or Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia

ALVAIZ® (eltrombopag tablets) are indicated for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult and pediatric patients 6 years and older with persistent or chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) who have had an insufficient response to corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, or splenectomy. ALVAIZ should be used only in patients with ITP whose degree of thrombocytopenia and clinical condition increase the risk for bleeding.

Treatment of Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Hepatitis C Infection

ALVAIZ is indicated for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult patients with chronic hepatitis C to allow the initiation and maintenance of interferon-based therapy. ALVAIZ should be used only in patients with chronic hepatitis C whose degree of thrombocytopenia prevents the initiation of interferon-based therapy or limits the ability to maintain interferon-based therapy.

Treatment of SevereAplastic Anemia

ALVAIZ is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with severe aplastic anemia who have had an insufficient response to immunosuppressive therapy.

Limitations of Use

• ALVAIZ is not indicated for the treatment of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) [see Warnings and Precautions ].
• Safety and efficacy have not been established in combination with direct-acting antiviral agents used without interferon for treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection.

Important DosageInformation

• Eltrombopag is available for different indications and in different dosage forms and tablet strengths.
• ALVAIZ is not substitutable with other eltrombopag products on a milligram per milligram basis due to the observed bioavailability in studies conducted on ALVAIZ.
• Patients must be able to swallow ALVAIZ tablets whole [see Dosage and Administration ].

Recommended Dosage for Persistent or Chronic ImmuneThrombocytopenia

Use the lowest dose of ALVAIZ to achieve and maintain a platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L as necessary to reduce the risk for bleeding. Dose adjustments are based upon the platelet count response. Do not use ALVAIZ to normalize platelet counts [see Warnings and Precautions ]. In clinical trials, platelet counts generally increased within 1 to 2 weeks after starting ALVAIZ and decreased within 1 to 2 weeks after discontinuing ALVAIZ [see Clinical Studies ].

Initial Dose Regimen: Adult and Pediatric Patients 6 Years and Older with ITP: Initiate ALVAIZ at a dose of 36 mg orally once daily, except in patients who are of East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry or who have mild to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C).

For patients of East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry with ITP, initiate ALVAIZ at a reduced dose of 18 mg once daily [see Use in Specific Populations , Clinical Pharmacology ].

For patients with ITP and mild, moderate, or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C), initiate ALVAIZ at a reduced dose of 18 mg once daily [see Use in Specific Populations , Clinical Pharmacology ].

For patients of East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry with ITP and hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C), consider initiating ALVAIZ at a reduced dose of 9 mg once daily [see Clinical Pharmacology ].

Monitoring and Dose Adjustment: After initiating ALVAIZ, adjust the dose to achieve and maintain a platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L as necessary to reduce the risk for bleeding. Do not exceed a dose of 54 mg daily. Monitor clinical hematology and liver tests regularly throughout therapy with ALVAIZ and modify the dosage regimen of ALVAIZ based on platelet counts as outlined in Table 1. During therapy with ALVAIZ, assess complete blood counts (CBCs) with differentials, including platelet counts, weekly until a stable platelet count has been achieved. Obtain CBCs with differentials, including platelet counts, monthly thereafter.

In patients with ITP and hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C), after initiating ALVAIZ or after any subsequent dosing increase, wait 3 weeks before increasing the dose.

Modify the dosage regimen of concomitant ITP medications, as medically appropriate, to avoid excessive increases in platelet counts during therapy with ALVAIZ. Do not administer more than one dose of ALVAIZ within any 24-hour period.

Discontinuation: Discontinue ALVAIZ if the platelet count does not increase to a level sufficient to avoid clinically important bleeding after 4 weeks of therapy with ALVAIZ at the maximum daily dose of 54 mg. Excessive platelet count responses, as outlined in Table 1, or important liver test abnormalities also necessitate discontinuation of ALVAIZ [see Warnings and Precautions ]. Obtain CBCs with differentials, including platelet counts, weekly for at least 4 weeks following discontinuation of ALVAIZ.

Recommended Dosage for Chronic HepatitisC-associated Thrombocytopenia

Use the lowest dose of ALVAIZ to achieve and maintain a platelet count necessary to initiate and maintain antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Dose adjustments are based upon the platelet count response. Do not use ALVAIZ to normalize platelet counts [see Warnings and Precautions ]. In clinical trials, platelet counts generally began to rise within the first week of treatment with ALVAIZ [see Clinical Studies ].

Initial Dose Regimen: Initiate ALVAIZ at a dose of 18 mg orally once daily.

Monitoring and Dose Adjustment: Adjust the dose of ALVAIZ in 18-mg increments every 2 weeks as necessary to achieve the target platelet count required to initiate antiviral therapy. Monitor platelet counts every week prior to starting antiviral therapy.

During antiviral therapy, adjust the dose of ALVAIZ to avoid dose reductions of peginterferon. Monitor CBCs with differentials, including platelet counts, weekly during antiviral therapy until a stable platelet count is achieved. Monitor platelet counts monthly thereafter. Do not exceed a dose of 72 mg daily. Monitor clinical hematology and liver tests regularly throughout therapy with ALVAIZ.

For specific dosage instructions for peginterferon or ribavirin, refer to their respective prescribing information.

Discontinuation: The prescribing information for pegylated interferon and ribavirin include recommendations for antiviral treatment discontinuation for treatment futility. Refer to pegylated interferon and ribavirin prescribing information for discontinuation recommendations for antiviral treatment futility.

ALVAIZ should be discontinued when antiviral therapy is discontinued. Excessive platelet count responses, as outlined in Table 2, or important liver test abnormalities also necessitate discontinuation of ALVAIZ [see Warnings and Precautions ].

RecommendedDosage for Refractory Severe Aplastic Anemia

Use the lowest dose of ALVAIZ to achieve and maintain a hematologic response. Dose adjustments are based upon the platelet count. Hematologic response requires dose titration, generally up to 108 mg, and may take up to 16 weeks after starting ALVAIZ [see Clinical Studies ].

Initial Dose Regimen: Initiate ALVAIZ at a dose of 36 mg orally once daily.

For patients with severe aplastic anemia of East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry or those with mild, moderate, or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C), initiate ALVAIZ at a reduced dose of 18 mg once daily [see Use in Specific Populations , Clinical Pharmacology ].

Monitoring and Dose Adjustment: Adjust the dose of ALVAIZ in 36-mg increments every 2 weeks as necessary to achieve the target platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L as necessary. Do not exceed a dose of 108 mg daily. Monitor clinical hematology and liver tests regularly throughout therapy with ALVAIZ and modify the dosage regimen of ALVAIZ based on platelet counts as outlined in Table 3.

For patients who achieve tri-lineage response, including transfusion independence, lasting at least 8 weeks: the dose of ALVAIZ may be reduced by 50% [see Clinical Studies ]. If counts remain stable after 8 weeks at the reduced dose, then discontinue ALVAIZ and monitor blood counts. If platelet counts drop to less than 30 x 109/L, hemoglobin to less than 9 g/dL, or absolute neutrophil count (ANC) to less than 0.5 x 109/L, ALVAIZ may be reinitiated at the previous effective dose.

Discontinuation: If no hematologic response has occurred after 16 weeks of therapy with ALVAIZ, discontinue therapy. If new cytogenetic abnormalities are observed, consider discontinuation of ALVAIZ [see Adverse Reactions ]. Excessive platelet count responses (as outlined in Table 3) or important liver test abnormalities also necessitate discontinuation of ALVAIZ [see Warnings and Precautions ].

Administration

Administration of Tablets: Take ALVAIZ without a meal or with a meal low in calcium (≤ 50 mg). Take ALVAIZ at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after other medications (e.g., antacids), calcium-rich foods (containing > 50 mg calcium e.g., dairy products, calcium-fortified juices, and certain fruits and vegetables), or supplements containing polyvalent cations, such as iron, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, selenium, and zinc [see Drug Interactions , Clinical Pharmacology ].

Swallow tablets whole. Do not split, chew, or crush tablets and mix with food or liquids.

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Available data from a small number of published case reports and postmarketing experience with eltrombopag use in pregnant women are insufficient to assess any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction and developmental toxicity studies, oral administration of eltrombopag to pregnant rats during organogenesis resulted in embryolethality and reduced fetal weights at maternally toxic doses. These effects were observed at doses resulting in exposures that were six times the human clinical exposure based on area under the curve (AUC) in patients with persistent or chronic ITP at 75 mg/day, and three times the AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day (see Data).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

In an early embryonic development study, female rats received oral eltrombopag at doses of 10, 20, or 60 mg/kg/day (0.8, 2, and 6 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 0.3, 1, and 3 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). Increased pre- and post-implantation loss and reduced fetal weight were observed at the highest dose which also caused maternal toxicity.

In an embryo-fetal development study eltrombopag was administered orally to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis at doses of 10, 20, or 60 mg/kg/day (0.8, 2, and 6 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 0.3, 1, and 3 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). Decreased fetal weights (6% to 7%) and a slight increase in the presence of cervical ribs were observed at the highest dose which also caused maternal toxicity. However, no evidence of major structural malformations was observed.

In an embryo-fetal development study eltrombopag was administered orally to pregnant rabbits during the period of organogenesis at doses of 30, 80, or 150 mg/kg/day (0.04, 0.3, and 0.5 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 0.02, 0.1, and 0.3 times, respectively, the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). No evidence of fetotoxicity, embryolethality, or teratogenicity was observed.

In a pre- and post-natal developmental toxicity study in pregnant rats (F0), oral eltrombopag was administered from gestation Day 6 through lactation Day 20. No adverse effects on maternal reproductive function or on the development of the offspring (F1) were observed at doses up to 20 mg/kg/day (2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and similar to the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). Eltrombopag was detected in the plasma of offspring (F1). The plasma concentrations in pups increased with dose following administration of drug to the F0 dams.

Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data regarding the presence of eltrombopag or its metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. However, eltrombopag was detected in the pups of lactating rats 10 days postpartum suggesting the potential for transfer during lactation. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child from eltrombopag, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.

 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

Contraception

Based on animal reproduction studies, eltrombopag can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Sexually-active females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception (methods that result in less than 1% pregnancy rates) when using ALVAIZ during treatment and for at least 7 days after stopping treatment with ALVAIZ.

Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of ALVAIZ have been established in pediatric patients 6 years and older with persistent or chronic ITP. 

The safety and effectiveness of eltrombopag in pediatric patients 6 years and older with persistent or chronic ITP were evaluated in two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials [see Adverse Reactions , Clinical Studies ]. The pharmacokinetics of eltrombopag have been established in 130 pediatric patients 6 years and older with ITP dosed once daily [see Clinical Pharmacology ]. See Dosage and Administration for dosing recommendations for pediatric patients 6 years and older.

The safety and effectiveness of ALVAIZ have not been established in pediatric patients less than 6 years of age with persistent or chronic ITP. Pediatric patients must be able to swallow ALVAIZ tablets whole [see Dosage and Administration ].

The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients with thrombocytopenia associated with chronic hepatitis C and refractory severe aplastic anemia have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Of the 106 patients in two randomized clinical trials of eltrombopag 50 mg in persistent or chronic ITP, 22% were 65 years of age and over, while 9% were 75 years of age and over. Of the 1439 patients in two randomized clinical trials of eltrombopag in patients with chronic hepatitis C and thrombocytopenia, 7% were 65 years of age and over, while < 1% were 75 years of age and over. Of the 196 patients who received eltrombopag for the treatment of severe aplastic anemia, 18% were 65 years of age and over, while 3% were 75 years of age and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with Persistent or Chronic ITP and Severe Aplastic Anemia

Reduce the initial dose of eltrombopag in patients with persistent or chronic ITP (adult and pediatric patients 6 years and older only) or refractory severe aplastic anemia who also have hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, C) [see Dosage and Administration , Warnings and Precautions , Clinical Pharmacology ].

In a clinical trial in patients with severe aplastic anemia who had not received prior definitive immunosuppressive therapy, patients with baseline ALT or AST > 5 x ULN were ineligible to participate [see Dosage and Administration , Clinical Pharmacology ].

Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C

No dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with chronic hepatitis C and hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology ].

Ethnicity

Reduce the initial dose of ALVAIZ for patients of East- /Southeast-Asian ancestry with ITP (adult and pediatric patients 6 years and older only) or adults with severe aplastic anemia [see Dosage and Administration , Clinical Pharmacology ]. No reduction in the initial dose of ALVAIZ is recommended in patients of East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry with chronic hepatitis C [see Clinical Pharmacology ].

Hepatic Decompensation inPatients with Chronic Hepatitis C

In patients with chronic hepatitis C, ALVAIZ in combination with interferon and ribavirin may increase the risk of hepatic decompensation. In two controlled clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis C and thrombocytopenia, ascites and encephalopathy occurred more frequently on the arm receiving treatment with eltrombopag plus antivirals (7%) than the placebo plus antivirals arm (4%). Patients with low albumin levels (less than 3.5 g/dL) or Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score greater than or equal to 10 at baseline had a greater risk for hepatic decompensation on the arm receiving treatment with eltrombopag plus antivirals. Discontinue ALVAIZ if antiviral therapy is discontinued.

Hepatotoxicity

ALVAIZ may increase the risk of severe and potentially life-threatening hepatotoxicity [see Adverse Reactions ]. One patient (< 1%) with ITP treated with eltrombopag in clinical trials experienced drug-induced liver injury. Eleven patients (1%) with chronic hepatitis C treated with eltrombopag in clinical trials experienced drug-induced liver injury.

Treatment of ITP, Chronic Hepatitis C-associated Thrombocytopenia, and Refractory Severe Aplastic Anemia

Measure serum ALT, AST, and bilirubin prior to initiation of ALVAIZ, every 2 weeks during the dose adjustment phase, and monthly following establishment of a stable dose. ALVAIZ inhibits UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1 and organic anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B1, which may lead to indirect hyperbilirubinemia. If bilirubin is elevated, perform fractionation. Evaluate abnormal serum liver tests with repeat testing within 3 to 5 days. If the abnormalities are confirmed, monitor serum liver tests weekly until resolved or stabilized. Discontinue ALVAIZ if ALT levels increase to greater than or equal to 3 x ULN in patients with normal liver function or greater than or equal to 3 x baseline (or greater than 5 x ULN, whichever is the lower) in patients with pre-treatment elevations in transaminases and are:

• progressively increasing, or
• persistent for greater than or equal to 4 weeks, or
• accompanied by increased direct bilirubin, or
• accompanied by clinical symptoms of liver injury or evidence for hepatic decompensation.

If the potential benefit for reinitiating treatment with ALVAIZ is considered to outweigh the risk for hepatotoxicity, then consider cautiously reintroducing ALVAIZ and measure serum liver tests weekly during the dose adjustment phase. Hepatotoxicity may reoccur if ALVAIZ is reinitiated. If liver test abnormalities persist, worsen, or recur, then permanently discontinue ALVAIZ.

Increased Risk of Deathand Progression of Myelodysplastic Syndromes to Acute Myeloid Leukemia

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial in patients with International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) intermediate-1, intermediate-2 or high risk MDS with thrombocytopenia, receiving azacitidine in combination with either eltrombopag (n = 179) or placebo (n = 177) was terminated due to lack of efficacy and safety reasons, including increased progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients received eltrombopag or placebo at a starting dose of 200 mg once daily, up to a maximum of 300 mg once daily, in combination with azacitidine for at least six cycles. The incidence of death (overall survival) was 32% (57/179) in the eltrombopag arm versus 29% (51/177) in the placebo arm (HR [95% CI] = 1.42 [0.97, 2.08], showing an increased relative risk of death in this trial by 42% in the eltrombopag arm). The incidence of progression to AML was 12% (21/179) in the eltrombopag arm versus 6% (10/177) in the placebo arm (HR [95% CI] = 2.66 [1.31, 5.41], showing an increased relative risk of progression to AML in this trial by 166% in the eltrombopag arm).

Thrombotic/ThromboembolicComplications

Thrombotic/thromboembolic complications may result from increases in platelet counts with ALVAIZ. Reported thrombotic/thromboembolic complications included both venous and arterial events and were observed at low and at normal platelet counts.

Consider the potential for an increased risk of thromboembolism when administering ALVAIZ to patients with known risk factors for thromboembolism (e.g., Factor V Leiden, ATIII deficiency, antiphospholipid syndrome, chronic liver disease). To minimize the risk for thrombotic/thromboembolic complications, do not use ALVAIZ in an attempt to normalize platelet counts. Follow the dose adjustment guidelines to achieve and maintain target platelet counts [see Dosage and Administration ].

In two controlled clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis C and thrombocytopenia, 3% (31/955) treated with eltrombopag experienced a thrombotic event compared with 1% (5/484) on placebo. The majority of events were of the portal venous system (1% in patients treated with eltrombopag versus less than 1% for placebo).

In a controlled trial in patients with chronic liver disease and thrombocytopenia not related to ITP undergoing elective invasive procedures (N = 292), the risk of thrombotic events was increased in patients treated with 75 mg of eltrombopag once daily. Seven thrombotic complications (six patients) were reported in the group that received eltrombopag and three thrombotic complications were reported in the placebo group (two patients). All of the thrombotic complications reported in the group that received eltrombopag were portal vein thrombosis (PVT). Symptoms of PVT included abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Five of the six patients in the group that received eltrombopag experienced a thrombotic complication within 30 days of completing treatment with eltrombopag and at a platelet count above 200 x 109/L. The risk of portal venous thrombosis was increased in thrombocytopenic patients with chronic liver disease treated with 75 mg of eltrombopag once daily for 2 weeks in preparation for invasive procedures.

Cataracts

In the three controlled clinical trials in adults with persistent or chronic ITP, cataracts developed or worsened in 15 (7%) patients who received 50 mg of eltrombopag daily and 8 (7%) placebo-group patients. In the extension trial, cataracts developed or worsened in 11% of patients who underwent ocular examination prior to therapy with eltrombopag. In the two controlled clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis C and thrombocytopenia, cataracts developed or worsened in 8% of patients treated with eltrombopag and 5% of patients treated with placebo.

Cataracts were observed in toxicology studies of eltrombopag in rodents [see Nonclinical Toxicology ]. Perform a baseline ocular examination prior to administration of eltrombopag and, during therapy with eltrombopag, regularly monitor patients for signs and symptoms of cataracts.

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 with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The safety of ALVAIZ has been established based on adequate and well-controlled studies of eltrombopag olamine in adult and pediatric patients 6 years and older with persistent or chronic ITP, adult patients with chronic hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia, and adult patients with refractory severe aplastic anemia. Below is a display of the adverse reactions of eltrombopag olamine in these adequate and well-controlled studies.

Persistent or Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia: Adults: In clinical trials, hemorrhage was the most common serious adverse reaction and most hemorrhagic reactions followed discontinuation of eltrombopag. Other serious adverse reactions included thrombotic/thromboembolic complications [see Warnings and Precautions ]. The data described below reflect exposure of eltrombopag to patients with persistent or chronic ITP aged 18 to 85 years, of whom 66% were female, in three placebo-controlled trials and one open-label extension trial [see Clinical Studies ]. Eltrombopag was administered to 330 patients for at least 6 months and 218 patients for at least 1 year.

Table 4 presents the most common adverse drug reactions (experienced by greater than or equal to 3% of patients receiving eltrombopag) from the three placebo-controlled trials, with a higher incidence in eltrombopag versus placebo.

In the three controlled clinical persistent or chronic ITP trials, alopecia, musculoskeletal pain, blood alkaline phosphatase increased, and dry mouth were the adverse reactions reported in 2% of patients treated with eltrombopag and in no patients who received placebo.

Among 302 patients with persistent or chronic ITP who received eltrombopag in the single-arm extension trial, the adverse reactions occurred in a pattern similar to that seen in the placebo-controlled trials. Table 5 presents the most common treatment-related adverse reactions (experienced by greater than or equal to 3% of patients receiving eltrombopag) from the extension trial.

Abbreviations: ALT, alanine aminotransferase; AST, aspartate aminotransferase.

In the three controlled persistent or chronic ITP trials, serum liver test abnormalities (predominantly Grade 2 or less in severity) were reported in 11% and 7% of patients for eltrombopag and placebo, respectively. Four patients (1%) treated with eltrombopag and three patients in the placebo group (2%) discontinued treatment due to hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities. Seventeen of the patients treated with eltrombopag in the controlled trials with hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities were re-exposed to eltrombopag in the extension trial. Eight of these patients again experienced liver test abnormalities (less than or equal to Grade 3) resulting in discontinuation of eltrombopag in one patient. In the extension persistent or chronic ITP trial, six additional patients had eltrombopag discontinued due to liver test abnormalities (less than or equal to Grade 3).

In the three controlled persistent or chronic ITP trials, cataracts developed or worsened in 7% of patients treated with eltrombopag and 7% of patients in the placebo group. All patients had documented, preexisting risk factors for cataractogenesis, including corticosteroid use. In the extension trial, cataracts developed or worsened in 11% of patients who underwent ocular examination prior to therapy with eltrombopag. Seventy-two percent of patients had preexisting risk factors, including corticosteroid use.

The safety of eltrombopag was also assessed in all patients treated in 7 adult persistent or chronic ITP clinical trials (N = 763 eltrombopag-treated patients and 179 placebo-treated patients). Thromboembolic events were reported in 6% of eltrombopag-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients and thrombotic microangiopathy with acute renal failure was reported in < 1% of eltrombopag-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients.

In a placebo-controlled trial of eltrombopag in patients with chronic liver disease and thrombocytopenia not related to ITP, six patients treated with eltrombopag and one patient in the placebo group developed portal vein thromboses [see Warnings and Precautions ].

Pediatric Patients: The data described below reflect median exposure to eltrombopag of 91 days for 107 pediatric patients (aged 1 to 17 years) with persistent or chronic ITP, of whom 53% were female, across the randomized phase of two placebo-controlled trials. ALVAIZ is not indicated for pediatric patients <6 years of age with persistent or chronic ITP. 

Table 6 presents the most common adverse drug reactions (experienced by greater than or equal to 3% of pediatric patients 1 year and older receiving eltrombopag) across the two placebo-controlled trials, with a higher incidence for eltrombopag versus placebo.

In the two controlled clinical persistent or chronic ITP trials, cataracts developed or worsened in 2 (1%) patients treated with eltrombopag. Both patients had received chronic oral corticosteroids, a risk factor for cataractogenesis.

Chronic Hepatitis C-associated Thrombocytopenia: In the two placebo-controlled trials, 955 patients with chronic hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia received eltrombopag. Table 7 presents the most common adverse drug reactions (experienced by greater than or equal to 10% of patients receiving eltrombopag compared with placebo).

Rash was reported in 9% and 7% of patients receiving eltrombopag and placebo, respectively.

In the two controlled clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis C, hyperbilirubinemia was reported in 8% of patients receiving eltrombopag compared with 3% for placebo. Total bilirubin greater than or equal to 1.5 x ULN was reported in 76% and 50% of patients receiving eltrombopag and placebo, respectively. ALT or AST greater than or equal to 3 x ULN was reported in 34% and 38% of patients for eltrombopag and placebo, respectively.

In the two controlled clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis C, cataracts developed or worsened in 8% of patients treated with eltrombopag and 5% of patients treated with placebo.

The safety of eltrombopag was also assessed in all patients treated with eltrombopag in the two controlled trials, including patients who initially received eltrombopag in the pre-antiviral treatment phase of the trial and were later randomized to the placebo arm (N = 1520 eltrombopag-treated patients). Hepatic failure was reported in 0.8% of eltrombopag-treated patients and 0.4% of placebo-treated patients.

Severe Aplastic Anemia:

Refractory Severe Aplastic Anemia

In the single-arm, open-label trial, 43 patients with refractory severe aplastic anemia received eltrombopag. Eleven patients (26%) were treated for greater than 6 months and 7 patients (16%) were treated for greater than 1 year. The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 20%) were nausea, fatigue, cough, diarrhea, and headache.

Rash and hyperbilirubinemia were reported in 7% of patients; cataract was reported in 2% of patients.

In this trial, concurrent ALT or AST greater than 3 x ULN with total bilirubin greater than 1.5 x ULN were reported in 5% of patients. Total bilirubin greater than 1.5 x ULN occurred in 14% of patients.

In this trial, patients had bone marrow aspirates evaluated for cytogenetic abnormalities. Eight patients had a new cytogenetic abnormality reported on therapy, including 5 patients who had complex changes in chromosome 7.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of eltrombopag. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate the frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Skin discoloration, including hyperpigmentation and skin yellowing.

Polyvalent Cations(Chelation)

Eltrombopag chelates polyvalent cations (such as iron, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, selenium, and zinc) in foods, mineral supplements, and antacids.

Take ALVAIZ at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations, such as antacids, dairy products, and mineral supplements to avoid significant reduction in absorption of ALVAIZ due to chelation [see Dosage and Administration , Clinical Pharmacology ].

Transporters

Use caution when concomitantly administering ALVAIZ and drugs that are substrates of OATP1B1 (e.g., atorvastatin, bosentan, ezetimibe, fluvastatin, glyburide, olmesartan, pitavastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, repaglinide, rifampin, simvastatin acid, SN-38 [active metabolite of irinotecan], valsartan) or breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) (e.g., imatinib, irinotecan, lapatinib, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, rosuvastatin, sulfasalazine, topotecan). Monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of excessive exposure to the drugs that are substrates of OATP1B1 or BCRP and consider reduction of the dose of these drugs, if appropriate. In clinical trials with eltrombopag, a dose reduction of rosuvastatin by 50% was recommended.

Protease Inhibitors

HIV Protease Inhibitors: No dose adjustment is recommended when ALVAIZ is coadministered with lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/RTV). Drug interactions with other HIV protease inhibitors have not been evaluated.

Hepatitis C Virus Protease Inhibitors: No dose adjustments are recommended when ALVAIZ is coadministered with boceprevir or telaprevir. Drug interactions with other hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitors have not been evaluated.

Peginterferon Alfa-2a/bTherapy

No dose adjustments are recommended when ALVAIZ is coadministered with peginterferon alfa-2a (PEGASYS®) or -2b (PEGINTRON®).

Mechanism of Action

Eltrombopag is a TPO-receptor agonist that interacts with the transmembrane domain of the human TPO-receptor (also known as cMpl) and initiates signaling cascades that induce proliferation and differentiation of megakaryocytes leading to increased platelet production.

Pharmacodynamics

In clinical trials, treatment with eltrombopag resulted in dose-dependent increases in platelet counts following repeated (daily) dosing. The increase in platelet counts reached a maximum approximately two weeks after the initiation of dosing, and returned to baseline within approximately two weeks after the last dose of eltrombopag.

Cardiac Electrophysiology

At doses up to 150 mg (the maximum recommended dose) daily for 5 days, eltrombopag did not prolong the QT/QTc interval to any relevant extent.

Pharmacokinetics

Eltrombopag demonstrated a dose-proportional increase in exposure between doses of 50 to 150 mg/day in healthy adult subjects. Eltrombopag AUC was approximately 1.7-fold higher in patients with persistent or chronic ITP and approximately 2.8-fold higher in patients with HCV compared to healthy subjects. Steady-state was achieved after approximately 1 week of once daily treatment, with geometric mean accumulation ratio of 1.56 (90% confidence interval 1.20, 1.63) at 75 mg/day. Eltrombopag AUC was approximately 3.2-fold higher in patients with definitive immunosuppressive therapy-naïve severe aplastic anemia compared to healthy subjects suggesting higher relative exposure compared to healthy subjects or patients with ITP and similar exposure compared to patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Absorption

Eltrombopag is absorbed with a peak concentration occurring 1.5 to 5.5 hours after oral administration under fasting conditions and 1.0 to 8.0 hours after oral administration under fed conditions (high-fat, high-calorie meal).

Effect of Food

Administration of eltrombopag after a high fat, high calorie meal decreased AUCinf by approximately 36% and Cmax by approximately 39%, and delayed Tmax by 0.5 hours as compared to fasted conditions.

A meal low in calcium (≤ 50 mg calcium) did not significantly impact plasma eltrombopag exposure, regardless of calorie and fat content.

Distribution

The concentration of eltrombopag in blood cells is approximately 50% to 79% of plasma concentrations based on a radiolabel study. In vitro studies suggest that eltrombopag is highly bound to human plasma proteins (greater than 99%). Eltrombopag is a substrate of BCRP, but is not a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or OATP1B1.

Elimination

The plasma elimination half-life of eltrombopag is approximately 21 to 32 hours in healthy subjects and 26 to 35 hours in patients with ITP.

Metabolism: Absorbed eltrombopag is extensively metabolized, predominantly through pathways, including cleavage, oxidation, and conjugation with glucuronic acid, glutathione, or cysteine. In vitro studies suggest that CYP1A2 and CYP2C8 are responsible for the oxidative metabolism of eltrombopag. UGT1A1 and UGT1A3 are responsible for the glucuronidation of eltrombopag.

Excretion: The predominant route of eltrombopag excretion is via feces (59%), and 31% of the dose is found in the urine. Unchanged eltrombopag in feces accounts for approximately 20% of the dose; unchanged eltrombopag is not detectable in urine.

Specific Populations

Ethnicity

Eltrombopag concentrations in East-/Southeast-Asian ancestry patients with ITP or chronic hepatitis C, were 50% to 55% higher compared with non-Asian subjects [see Dosage and Administration ].

Eltrombopag exposure in healthy African-American subjects was approximately 40% higher than that observed in Caucasian subjects in one clinical pharmacology trial and similar in three other clinical pharmacology trials. The effect of African-American ethnicity on exposure and related safety and efficacy of eltrombopag has not been established.

Hepatic Impairment

Following a single dose of eltrombopag, plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF was 41% higher in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A) compared with subjects with normal hepatic function.

Plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF was approximately 2-fold higher in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) compared with subjects with normal hepatic function. The half-life of eltrombopag was prolonged 2-fold in these patients. This clinical trial did not evaluate protein-binding effects.

Chronic Liver Disease

Following repeat doses of eltrombopag in patients with thrombocytopenia and with chronic liver disease, mild hepatic impairment resulted in an 87% to 110% higher plasma eltrombopag AUC(0-τ) and moderate hepatic impairment resulted in approximately 141% to 240% higher plasma eltrombopag AUC(0-τ) values compared with patients with normal hepatic function. The half-life of eltrombopag was prolonged 3-fold in patients with mild hepatic impairment and 4-fold in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. This clinical trial did not evaluate protein-binding effects.

Chronic Hepatitis C

Patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with eltrombopag had higher plasma AUC(0-τ) values as compared with healthy subjects, and AUC(0-τ) increased with increasing Child-Pugh score. Patients with chronic hepatitis C and mild hepatic impairment had approximately 100% to 144% higher plasma AUC(0-τ) compared with healthy subjects. This clinical trial did not evaluate protein-binding effects.

Renal Impairment

Following a single dose of eltrombopag, the average total plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF was
32% to 36% lower in subjects with mild (estimated creatinine clearance (CLCr) by Cockcroft-Gault equation: 50 to 80 mL/min), to moderate (CLCr of 30 to 49 mL/min) renal impairment and 60% lower in subjects with severe (CLCr less than 30 mL/min) renal impairment compared with healthy subjects. The effect of renal impairment on unbound (active) eltrombopag exposure has not been assessed.

Pediatric Patients

The pharmacokinetics of eltrombopag have been evaluated in 168 pediatric patients 1 year and older with ITP dosed once daily in two trials. Plasma eltrombopag apparent clearance following oral administration (CL/F) increased with increasing body weight. East-/Southeast-Asian pediatric patients with ITP had approximately 43% higher plasma eltrombopag AUC(0-τ) values as compared with non-Asian patients.

Plasma eltrombopag AUC(0-τ) and Cmax in pediatric patients aged 12 to 17 years was similar to that observed in adults. The pharmacokinetic parameters of eltrombopag in pediatric patients with ITP are shown in Table 9.

Drug Interaction Studies

Clinical Studies

Effect of Drugs on Eltrombopag

Effect of Polyvalent Cation-containing Antacids on Eltrombopag:

The coadministration of a single dose of eltrombopag with a polyvalent cation-containing antacid (1,524 mg aluminum hydroxide, 1,425 mg magnesium carbonate, and sodium alginate) decreased plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF and Cmax by approximately 70%. The contribution of sodium alginate to this interaction is not known.

Effect of HIV Protease Inhibitors on Eltrombopag:

The coadministration of repeat-dose lopinavir 400 mg/ritonavir 100 mg (twice daily) with a single dose of eltrombopag decreased plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF by 17%.

Effect of HCV Protease Inhibitors on Eltrombopag:

The coadministration of repeat-dose telaprevir (750 mg every 8 hours) or boceprevir (800 mg every 8 hours) with a single dose of eltrombopag to healthy adult subjects in a clinical trial did not alter plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF or Cmax to a significant extent.

Effect of Cyclosporine on Eltrombopag:

The coadministration of a single dose of eltrombopag with a single dose of an OATP and BCRP inhibitor cyclosporine (200 mg or 600 mg) decreased plasma eltrombopag AUC0-INF by 18% to 24% and Cmax by 25% to 39%.

Effect of Pegylated Interferon alfa-2a + Ribavirin and Pegylated Interferon alfa-2b + Ribavirin on Eltrombopag:

The presence of pegylated interferon alfa + ribavirin therapy did not significantly affect the clearance of eltrombopag.

Effect of Eltrombopag on Other Drugs

Effect of Eltrombopag on Cytochrome P450 Enzymes Substrates:

The coadministration of multiple doses of eltrombopag (once daily for 7 days) did not result in the inhibition or induction of the metabolism of a combination of probe substrates for CYP1A2 (caffeine), CYP2C19 (omeprazole), CYP2C9 (flurbiprofen), or CYP3A4 (midazolam) in humans.

Effect of Eltrombopag on Rosuvastatin:

The coadministration of multiple doses of eltrombopag (once daily for 5 days) with a single dose of rosuvastatin (OATP1B1 and BCRP substrate; 10 mg) increased plasma rosuvastatin AUC0-INF by 55% and Cmax by 103%.

Effect of Eltrombopag on HCV Protease Inhibitors:

The coadministration of repeat-dose telaprevir (750 mg every 8 hours) or boceprevir (800 mg every 8 hours) with a single dose of eltrombopag to healthy adult subjects in a clinical trial did not alter plasma telaprevir or boceprevir AUC0-INF or Cmax to a significant extent.

In vitro Studies

Eltrombopag Effect on Metabolic Enzymes

Eltrombopag has demonstrated the potential to inhibit CYP2C8, CYP2C9, UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A4, UGT1A6, UGT1A9, UGT2B7, and UGT2B15.

Eltrombopag Effect on Transporters

Eltrombopag has demonstrated the potential to inhibit OATP1B1 and BCRP.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Eltrombopag does not stimulate platelet production in rats, mice, or dogs because of unique TPO receptor specificity. Data from these animals do not fully model effects in humans.

Eltrombopag was not carcinogenic in mice at doses up to 75 mg/kg/day or in rats at doses up to 40 mg/kg/day (exposures up to 4 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day).

Eltrombopag was not mutagenic or clastogenic in a bacterial mutation assay or in two in vivo assays in rats (micronucleus and unscheduled DNA synthesis, 10 times the human clinical exposure based on Cmax in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 7 times the human clinical exposure based on Cmax in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). In the in vitro mouse lymphoma assay, eltrombopag was marginally positive (less than 3-fold increase in mutation frequency).

Eltrombopag did not affect female fertility in rats at doses up to 20 mg/kg/day (2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and similar to the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day). Eltrombopag did not affect male fertility in rats at doses up to 40 mg/kg/day, the highest dose tested (3 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day).

Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Treatment-related cataracts were detected in rodents in a dose- and time-dependent manner. At greater than or equal to 6 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 3 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day, cataracts were observed in mice after 6 weeks and in rats after 28 weeks of dosing. At greater than or equal to 4 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day, cataracts were observed in mice after 13 weeks and in rats after 39 weeks of dosing [see Warnings and Precautions ].

Renal tubular toxicity was observed in studies up to 14 days in duration in mice and rats at exposures that were generally associated with morbidity and mortality. Tubular toxicity was also observed in a 2-year oral carcinogenicity study in mice at doses of 25, 75, and 150 mg/kg/day. The exposure at the lowest dose was 1.2 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with ITP at 75 mg/day and 0.6 times the human clinical exposure based on AUC in patients with chronic hepatitis C at 100 mg/day. No similar effects were observed in mice after 13 weeks at exposures greater than those associated with renal changes in the 2-year study, suggesting that this effect is both dose- and time-dependent.

Persistent or Chronic ITP

Adults: The efficacy and safety of eltrombopag in adult patients with persistent or chronic ITP were evaluated in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and in an open-label extension trial.

In Study TRA100773B and Study TRA100773A (referred to as Study 773B and Study 773A, respectively [NCT00102739]), patients who had completed at least one prior ITP therapy and who had a platelet count less than 30 x 109/L were randomized to receive either eltrombopag or placebo daily for up to 6 weeks, followed by 6 weeks off therapy. During the trials, eltrombopag or placebo was discontinued if the platelet count exceeded 200 x 109/L.

The median age of the patients was 50 years and 60% were female. Approximately 70% of the patients had received at least 2 prior ITP therapies (predominantly corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, rituximab, cytotoxic therapies, danazol, and azathioprine) and 40% of the patients had undergone splenectomy. The median baseline platelet counts (approximately 18 x 109/L) were similar among all treatment groups.

Study 773B randomized 114 patients (2:1) to eltrombopag 50 mg or placebo. Of 60 patients with documented time since diagnosis, approximately 17% met the definition of persistent ITP with time since diagnosis of 3 to 12 months. Study 773A randomized 117 patients (1:1:1:1) among placebo or 1 of 3 dose regimens of eltrombopag , 30 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg each administered daily. Of 51 patients with documented time since diagnosis, approximately 14% met the definition of persistent ITP.

The efficacy of eltrombopag in this trial was evaluated by response rate, defined as a shift from a baseline platelet count of less than 30 x 109/L to greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L at any time during the treatment period (Table 10).

The platelet count response to eltrombopag was similar among patients who had or had not undergone splenectomy. In general, increases in platelet counts were detected 1 week following initiation of eltrombopag and the maximum response was observed after 2 weeks of therapy. In the placebo and 50-mg dose groups of eltrombopag, the trial drug was discontinued due to an increase in platelet counts to greater than 200 x 109/L in 3% and 27% of the patients, respectively. The median duration of treatment with the 50-mg dose of eltrombopag was 43 days in Study 773B and 42 days in Study 773A.

Of 7 patients who underwent hemostatic challenges, additional ITP medications were required in 3 of 3 placebo group patients and 0 of 4 patients treated with eltrombopag. Surgical procedures accounted for most of the hemostatic challenges. Hemorrhage requiring transfusion occurred in one placebo group patient and no patients treated with eltrombopag.

In the RAISE study (NCT00370331), 197 patients were randomized (2:1) to receive either eltrombopag 50 mg once daily (n = 135) or placebo (n = 62) for 6 months, during which time the dose of eltrombopag could be adjusted based on individual platelet counts. Of 145 patients with documented time since diagnosis, 19% met the definition of persistent ITP. Patients were allowed to taper or discontinue concomitant ITP medications after being treated with eltrombopag for 6 weeks. Patients were permitted to receive rescue treatments at any time during the trial as clinically indicated.

The median ages of the patients treated with eltrombopag and placebo were 47 years and 52.5 years, respectively. Approximately half of the patients treated with eltrombopag and placebo (47% and 50%, respectively) were receiving concomitant ITP medication (predominantly corticosteroids) at randomization and had baseline platelet counts less than or equal to 15 x 109/L (50% and 48%, respectively). A similar percentage of patients treated with eltrombopag and placebo (37% and 34%, respectively) had a prior splenectomy.

The efficacy of eltrombopag in this trial was evaluated by the odds of achieving a platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L and less than or equal to 400 x 109/L for patients receiving eltrombopag relative to placebo and was based on patient response profiles throughout the 6-month treatment period. In 134 patients who completed 26 weeks of treatment, a sustained platelet response (platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L and less than or equal to 400 x 109/L for 6 out of the last 8 weeks of the 26-week treatment period in the absence of rescue medication at any time) was achieved by 60% of patients treated with eltrombopag, compared with 10% of patients treated with placebo (splenectomized patients: eltrombopag 51%, placebo 8%; non-splenectomized patients: eltrombopag 66%, placebo 11%). The proportion of responders in the group of patients treated with eltrombopag was between 37% and 56% compared with 7% and 19% in the placebo treatment group for all on-therapy visits. Patients treated with eltrombopag were significantly more likely to achieve a platelet count between 50 x 109/L and 400 x 109/L during the entire 6-month treatment period compared with those patients treated with placebo.

Outcomes of treatment are presented in Table 11 for all patients enrolled in the trial.

Among 94 patients receiving other ITP therapy at baseline, 37 (59%) of 63 patients treated with eltrombopag and 10 (32%) of 31 patients in the placebo group discontinued concomitant therapy at some time during the trial.

In the EXTEND study (NCT00351468), patients who completed any prior clinical trial with eltrombopag were enrolled in an open-label, single-arm trial in which attempts were made to decrease the dose or eliminate the need for any concomitant ITP medications. Eltrombopag was administered to 302 patients in EXTEND; 218 patients completed 1 year, 180 patients completed 2 years, 107 patients completed 3 years, 75 patients completed 4 years, 34 patients completed 5 years, and 18 patients completed 6 years of therapy. The median baseline platelet count was 19 x 109/L prior to administration of eltrombopag. Median platelet counts at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 years on study were 85 x 109/L, 85 x 109/L, 105 x 109/L, 64 x 109/L, 75 x 109/L, 119 x 109/L, and 76 x 109/L, respectively.

Pediatric Patients: The efficacy and safety of eltrombopag in pediatric patients 1 year and older with persistent or chronic ITP were evaluated in two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. ALVAIZ is not indicated for pediatric patients less than 6 years of age with persistent or chronic ITP. The trials differed in time since ITP diagnosis: at least 6 months versus at least 12 months. During the trials, doses could be increased every 2 weeks to a maximum of 75 mg once daily. The dose of eltrombopag was reduced if the platelet count exceeded 200 x 109/L and interrupted and reduced if it exceeded 400 x 109/L.

In the PETIT2 study (NCT01520909), patients refractory or relapsed to at least one prior ITP therapy with a platelet count less than 30 x 109/L (n = 92) were stratified by age and randomized (2:1) to eltrombopag (n = 63) or placebo (n = 29). The starting dose for patients aged 6 to 17 years was 50 mg once daily for those at least 27 kg and 37.5 mg once daily for those less than 27 kg, administered as oral tablets. A reduced dose of 25 mg once daily was used for East-/Southeast-Asian patients aged 6 to 17 years regardless of weight.

The 13-week, randomized, double-blind period was followed by a 24-week, open-label period where patients from both arms were eligible to receive eltrombopag.

The median age of the patients was 9 years and 48% were female. Approximately 62% of patients had a baseline platelet count less than or equal to 15 x 109/L, a characteristic that was similar between treatment arms. The percentage of patients with at least 2 prior ITP therapies (predominantly corticosteroids and immunoglobulins) was 73% in the group treated with eltrombopag and 90% in the group treated with placebo. Four patients in the group treated with eltrombopag had undergone splenectomy.

The efficacy of eltrombopag in this trial was evaluated by the proportion of subjects on eltrombopag achieving platelet counts ≥ 50 x 109/L (in the absence of rescue therapy) for at least 6 out of 8 weeks between Weeks 5 to 12 of the randomized, double-blind period (Table 12).

More pediatric patients treated with eltrombopag (75%) compared with placebo (21%) had at least one platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L during the first 12 weeks of randomized treatment in absence of rescue therapy. Fewer pediatric patients treated with eltrombopag required rescue treatment during the randomized, double-blind period compared with placebo-treated patients (19% [12/63] versus 24% [7/29]). In the patients who achieved a platelet response (≥ 50 x 109/L without rescue) for 6 out of 8 weeks (between weeks 5 to 12), 62% (16/26) had an initial response in the first 2 weeks after starting eltrombopag.

Patients were permitted to reduce or discontinue baseline ITP therapy only during the open-label phase of the trial. Among 15 patients receiving other ITP therapy at baseline, 53% (8/15) reduced (n = 1) or discontinued (n = 7) concomitant therapy, mainly corticosteroids, without needing rescue therapy.

In the PETIT study (NCT00908037), patients refractory or relapsed to at least one prior ITP therapy with a platelet count less than 30 x 109/L (n = 67) were stratified by age and randomized (2:1) to eltrombopag (n = 45) or placebo (n = 22). Approximately 15% of patients met the definition of persistent ITP. The starting dose for patients aged 12 to 17 years was 37.5 mg once daily regardless of weight or race. The starting dose for patients aged 6 to 11 years was 50 mg once daily for those greater than or equal to 27 kg and 25 mg once daily for those less than 27 kg, administered as oral tablets. Reduced doses of 25 mg (for those greater than or equal to 27 kg) and 12.5 mg (for those less than 27 kg), each once daily, were used for East-/Southeast-Asian patients in this age range.

The 7-week, randomized, double-blind period was followed by an open-label period of up to 24 weeks where patients from both arms were eligible to receive eltrombopag.

The median age of the patients was 10 years and 60% were female. Approximately 51% of patients had a baseline platelet count less than or equal to 15 x 109/L. The percentage of patients with at least 2 prior ITP therapies (predominantly corticosteroids and immunoglobulins) was 84% in the group treated with eltrombopag and 86% in the group treated with placebo. Five patients in the group treated with eltrombopag had undergone splenectomy.

The efficacy of eltrombopag in this trial was evaluated by the proportion of patients achieving platelet counts greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L (in absence of rescue therapy) at least once between Weeks 1 and 6 of the randomized, double-blind period (Table 13). Platelet response to eltrombopag was consistent across the age cohorts.

Fewer pediatric patients treated with eltrombopag required rescue treatment during the randomized, double-blind period compared with placebo-treated patients (13% [6/45] versus 50% [11/22]).

Patients were permitted to reduce or discontinue baseline ITP therapy only during the open-label phase of the trial. Among 13 patients receiving other ITP therapy at baseline, 46% (6/13) reduced (n = 3) or discontinued (n = 3) concomitant therapy, mainly corticosteroids, without needing rescue therapy.

Chronic HepatitisC-associated Thrombocytopenia

The efficacy and safety of eltrombopag for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult patients with chronic hepatitis C were evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. The ENABLE1 study (NCT00516321) utilized peginterferon alfa-2a (PEGASYS®) plus ribavirin for antiviral treatment and the ENABLE2 study (NCT00529568) utilized peginterferon alfa-2b (PEGINTRON®) plus ribavirin. In both trials, patients with a platelet count of less than 75 x 109/L were enrolled and stratified by platelet count, screening HCV RNA, and HCV genotype. Patients were excluded if they had evidence of decompensated liver disease with Child-Pugh score greater than 6 (Class B and C), history of ascites, or hepatic encephalopathy. The median age of the patients in both trials was 52 years, 63% were male, and 74% were Caucasian. Sixty-nine percent of patients had HCV genotypes 1, 4, 6, with the remainder genotypes 2 and 3. Approximately 30% of patients had been previously treated with interferon and ribavirin. The majority of patients (90%) had bridging fibrosis and cirrhosis, as indicated by noninvasive testing. A similar proportion (95%) of patients in both treatment groups had Child-Pugh Class A (score 5 to 6) at baseline. A similar proportion of patients (2%) in both treatment groups had baseline international normalized ratio (INR) greater than 1.7. Median baseline platelet counts (approximately 60 x 109/L) were similar in both treatment groups. The trials consisted of 2 phases – a pre-antiviral treatment phase and an antiviral treatment phase. In the pre-antiviral treatment phase, patients received open-label eltrombopag to increase the platelet count to a threshold of greater than or equal to 90 x 109/L for ENABLE1 and greater than or equal to 100 x 109/L for ENABLE2. Eltrombopag was administered at an initial dose of 25 mg once daily for 2 weeks and increased in 25-mg increments over 2- to 3-week periods to achieve the optimal platelet count to initiate antiviral therapy. The maximal time patients could receive open-label eltrombopag was 9 weeks. If threshold platelet counts were achieved, patients were randomized (2:1) to the same dose of eltrombopag at the end of the pre-treatment phase or to placebo. Eltrombopag was administered in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin per their respective prescribing information for up to 48 weeks.

The efficacy of eltrombopag for both trials was evaluated by sustained virologic response (SVR) defined as the percentage of patients with undetectable HCV-RNA at 24 weeks after completion of antiviral treatment. The median time to achieve the target platelet count greater than or equal to 90 x 109/L was approximately 2 weeks. Ninety-five percent of patients were able to initiate antiviral therapy.

In both trials, a significantly greater proportion of patients treated with eltrombopag achieved SVR (see Table 14). The improvement in the proportion of patients who achieved SVR was consistent across subgroups based on baseline platelet count (less than 50 x 109/L versus greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L). In patients with high baseline viral loads (greater than or equal to 800,000), the SVR rate was 18% (82/452) for eltrombopag versus 8% (20/239) for placebo.

The majority of patients treated with eltrombopag (76%) maintained a platelet count greater than or equal to 50 x 109/L compared with 19% for placebo. A greater proportion of patients on eltrombopag did not require any antiviral dose reduction as compared with placebo (45% versus 27%).

Severe Aplastic Anemia

Refractory Severe Aplastic Anemia

Eltrombopag was studied in a single-arm, single-center, open-label trial (Study ETB115AUS28T, referred to as Study US28T [NCT00922883]) in 43 patients with severe aplastic anemia who had an insufficient response to at least one prior immunosuppressive therapy and who had a platelet count less than or equal to 30 x 109/L. Eltrombopag was administered at an initial dose of 50 mg once daily for 2 weeks and increased over 2-week periods up to a maximum dose of 150 mg once daily. The efficacy of eltrombopag in the study was evaluated by the hematologic response assessed after 12 weeks of treatment. Hematologic response was defined as meeting 1 or more of the following criteria: 1) platelet count increases to 20 x 109/L above baseline, or stable platelet counts with transfusion independence for a minimum of 8 weeks; 2) hemoglobin increase by greater than 1.5 g/dL, or a reduction in greater than or equal to 4 units of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions for 8 consecutive weeks; 3) ANC increase of 100% or an ANC increase greater than 0.5 x 109/L. Eltrombopag was discontinued after 16 weeks if no hematologic response was observed. Patients who responded continued therapy in an extension phase of the trial.

The treated population had median age of 45 years (range, 17 to 77 years) and 56% were male. At baseline, the median platelet count was 20 x 109/L, hemoglobin was 8.4 g/dL, ANC was 0.58 x 109/L, and absolute reticulocyte count was 24.3 x 109/L. Eighty-six percent of patients were red blood cell (RBC) transfusion dependent and 91% were platelet transfusion dependent. The majority of patients (84%) received at least 2 prior immunosuppressive therapies. Three patients had cytogenetic abnormalities at baseline.

Table 15 presents the efficacy results.

In the 17 responders, the platelet transfusion-free period ranged from 8 to 1096 days with a median of 200 days, and the RBC transfusion-free period ranged from 15 to 1082 days with a median of 208 days.

In the extension phase, 8 patients achieved a multi-lineage response; 4 of these patients subsequently tapered off treatment with eltrombopag and maintained the response (median follow up: 8.1 months, range, 7.2 to 10.6 months).

How Supplied

ALVAIZ (eltrombopag tablets) is for oral administration and are available as follows.

9 mg - Blue, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with “TV” on one side and “Z9” on the other side. The tablets are available in bottles of 30 (NDC 0480-3273-56).

18 mg - Off-white, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with “TV” on one side and “Z18” on the other side. The tablets are available in bottles of 30 (NDC 0480-3274-56).

36 mg - Red, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with “TV” on one side and “Z36” on the other side. The tablets are available in bottles of 30 (NDC 0480-3275-56).

54 mg - Orange, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with “TV” on one side and “Z54” on the other side. The tablets are available in bottles of 30 (NDC 0480-3276-56).

Storage and Handling

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