Vraylar

2.1      General Dosing Information

VRAYLAR is given orally once daily and can be taken with or without food.

Because of the long half-life of cariprazine and its active metabolites, changes in dose will not be fully reflected in plasma for several weeks. Prescribers should monitor patients for adverse reactions and treatment response for several weeks after starting VRAYLAR and after each dosage change [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)].

2.2      Recommended Dosage inSchizophrenia

The starting dosage of VRAYLAR is 1.5 mg once daily. The recommended dosage range is 1.5 mg to 6 mg once daily. The dosage can be increased to 3 mg on Day 2. Depending upon clinical response and tolerability, further dose adjustments can be made in 1.5 mg or 3 mg increments. The maximum recommended dosage is 6 mg daily. In short-term controlled trials, dosages above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1), Clinical Studies ( 14.1)].

2.3      Recommended Dosage inManic orMixed EpisodesAssociated withBipolar I Disorder

The starting dosage of VRAYLAR is 1.5 mg once daily and should be increased to 3 mg once daily on Day 2. The recommended dosage range is 3 mg to 6 mg once daily. Depending upon clinical response and tolerability, further dose adjustments can be made in 1.5 mg or 3 mg increments. The maximum recommended dosage is 6 mg daily. In short-term controlled trials, dosages above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1), Clinical Studies ( 14.2)].

2.4      Recommended Dosage inDepressive EpisodesAssociatedwith Bipolar I Disorder (Bipolar Depression)

The starting dosage of VRAYLAR is 1.5 mg once daily. Depending upon clinical response and tolerability, the dosage can be increased to 3 mg once daily on Day 15. Maximum recommended dosage is 3 mg once daily.

2.5      Recommended Dosage for Adjunctive Therapy to Antidepressantsfor the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder

The starting dosage of VRAYLAR is 1.5 mg once daily. Depending upon clinical response and tolerability, the dosage can be increased to 3 mg once daily on Day 15. In clinical trials, dosage titration at intervals of less than 14 days resulted in a higher incidence of adverse reactions [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1)]. Maximum recommended dosage is 3 mg once daily.

2.6      DosageAdjustments for CYP3A4 Inhibitorsand Inducers 

Dosage recommendation for patients initiating a strong CYP3A4 inhibitorwhile on a stable dose ofVRAYLAR: If a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is initiated, reduce the current dosage of VRAYLAR by half. For patients taking 4.5 mg daily, the dosage should be reduced to 1.5 mg or 3 mg daily. For patients taking 1.5 mg daily, the dosing regimen should be adjusted to every other day. When the CYP3A4 inhibitor is withdrawn, VRAYLAR dosage may need to be increased  [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1)].

Dosage recommendation for patients initiatingVRAYLARtherapywhile already on a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor:Patients should be administered 1.5 mg of VRAYLAR on Day 1 and on Day 3 with no dose administered on Day 2. From Day 4 onward, the dose should be administered at 1.5 mg daily, then increased to a maximum dose of 3 mg daily. When the CYP3A4 inhibitor is withdrawn, VRAYLAR dosage may need to be increased [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1)].

Dosage recommendationfor patientsconcomitantly taking VRAYLAR with CYP3A4inducers:
Concomitant use of VRAYLAR and a CYP3A4 inducer has not been evaluated and is not recommended because the net effect on active drug and metabolites is unclear  [seeDosage and Administration ( 2.1), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6),Drug Interactions ( 7.1), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)].

2.7      Treatment Discontinuation 

Following discontinuation of VRAYLAR, the decline in plasma concentrations of active drug and metabolites may not be immediately reflected in patients’ clinical symptoms; the plasma concentration of cariprazine and its active metabolites will decline by 50% in ~1 week [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)]. There are no systematically collected data to specifically address switching patients from VRAYLAR to other antipsychotics or concerning concomitant administration with other antipsychotics.

8.1      Pregnancy

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to VRAYLAR during pregnancy. For more information, contact the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/.

Risk Summary

Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery  (see Clinical Considerations). There are no available data on VRAYLAR use in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks for birth defects or miscarriage. The major active metabolite of cariprazine, DDCAR, has been detected in adult patients up to 12 weeks after discontinuation of VRAYLAR [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)]. 
Based on animal data, VRAYLAR may cause fetal harm.

Administration of cariprazine to rats during the period of organogenesis caused malformations, lower pup survival, and developmental delays at drug exposures less than the human exposure at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 6 mg/day. However, cariprazine was not teratogenic in rabbits at doses up to 4.6 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day  [see Data]. 

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.

Clinical Considerations

Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions

Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates whose mothers were exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Monitor neonates for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately.

Data

Animal Data

Administration of cariprazine to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis at oral doses of 0.5, 2.5, and 7.5 mg/kg/day, which are 0.2 to 3.5 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine (i.e. sum of cariprazine, DCAR, and DDCAR), caused fetal developmental toxicity at all doses, which included reduced body weight, decreased male anogenital distance, and skeletal malformations of bent limb bones, scapula, and humerus. These effects occurred in the absence or presence of maternal toxicity. Maternal toxicity, observed as a reduction in body weight and food consumption, occurred at doses 1.2 and 3.5-times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. At these doses, cariprazine caused fetal external malformations (localized fetal thoracic edema), visceral variations (undeveloped/underdeveloped renal papillae and/or distended urethrae), and skeletal developmental variations (bent ribs, unossified sternebrae). Cariprazine had no effect on fetal survival. 

Administration of cariprazine to pregnant rats during pregnancy and lactation at oral doses of 0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/kg/day, which are 0.03 to 0.4 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine, caused a decrease in postnatal survival, birth weight, and post-weaning body weight of first generation pups at the dose that is 0.4 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine in absence of maternal toxicity. First generation pups also had pale, cold bodies and developmental delays (renal papillae not developed or underdeveloped and decreased auditory startle response in males). Reproductive performance of the first generation pups was unaffected; however, the second generation pups had clinical signs and lower body weight similar to those of the first generation pups.

Administration of cariprazine to pregnant rabbits during the period of organogenesis at oral doses of 0.1, 1, and 5 mg/kg/day, which are 0.02 to 4.6 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine, was not teratogenic. Maternal body weight and food consumption were decreased at 4.6 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine; however, no adverse effects were observed on pregnancy parameters or reproductive organs.

8.2      Lactation

Risk Summary

Lactation studies have not been conducted to assess the presence of cariprazine in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Cariprazine is present in rat milk. The development and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for VRAYLAR and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from VRAYLAR or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.4      Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Pediatric studies of VRAYLAR have not been conducted. Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric patients [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)].

8.5      Geriatric Use

Clinical trials of VRAYLAR did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and older to determine whether or not they respond differently from younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Antipsychotic drugs increase the risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. VRAYLAR is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warningand Warningsand Precautions ( 5.1, 5.3)].

8.6      Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment for VRAYLAR is required in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score between 5 and 9) [ seeClinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)]. Usage of VRAYLAR is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score between 10 and 15). VRAYLAR has not been evaluated in this patient population.

8.7      Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustment for VRAYLAR is required in patients with mild to moderate (CrCL ≥ 30 mL/minute) renal impairment [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)].

Usage of VRAYLAR is not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCL < 30 mL/minute). VRAYLAR has not been evaluated in this patient population.

8.8      Smoking

No dosage adjustment for VRAYLAR is needed for patients who smoke. VRAYLAR is not a substrate for CYP1A2; smoking is not expected to have an effect on the pharmacokinetics of VRAYLAR.

8.9      Other Specific Populations

No dosage adjustment is required based on patient’s age, sex, or race. These factors do not affect the pharmacokinetics of VRAYLAR  [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)].

5.1      Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis

Antipsychotic drugs increase the all-cause risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. Analyses of 17 dementia-related psychosis placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks and largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs) revealed a risk of death in the drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times that in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in placebo-treated patients.

Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. VRAYLAR is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning,Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3)].

5.2      Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults

In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and other antidepressant classes) that included approximately 77,000 adult patients and 4,500 pediatric patients, the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in antidepressant-treated patients age 24 years and younger was greater than in placebo-treated patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among drugs, but there was an increased risk identified in young patients for most drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors across the different indications, with the highest incidence in patients with MDD. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1000 patients treated are provided in Table 1.

* VRAYLAR is not approved for use in pediatric patients.

It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with MDD that antidepressants delay the recurrence of depression and that depression itself is a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for any indication for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy, and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the healthcare provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing VRAYLAR, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

5.3      Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis

In placebo-controlled trials in elderly patients with dementia, patients randomized to risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine had a higher incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack, including fatal stroke. VRAYLAR is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)].

5.4      Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome(NMS)

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal symptom complex, has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, delirium, and autonomic instability. Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure.

If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue VRAYLAR and provide intensive symptomatic treatment and monitoring.

5.5      Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome consisting of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements, may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs, including VRAYLAR. The risk appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, but it is not possible to predict which patients are likely to develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown.

The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible increase with the duration of treatment and the cumulative dose. The syndrome can develop after a relatively brief treatment period, even at low doses. It may also occur after discontinuation of treatment.

Tardive dyskinesia may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is discontinued. Antipsychotic treatment itself, however, may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome, possibly masking the underlying process. The effect that symptomatic suppression has upon the long-term course of tardive dyskinesia is unknown.

Given these considerations, VRAYLAR should be prescribed in a manner most likely to reduce the risk of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients: 1) who suffer from a chronic illness that is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs; and 2) for whom alternative, effective, but potentially less harmful treatments are not available or appropriate. In patients who do require chronic treatment, use the lowest dose and the shortest duration of treatment producing a satisfactory clinical response should be sought. Periodically reassess the need for continued treatment.

If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient on VRAYLAR, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with VRAYLAR despite the presence of the syndrome.

5.6      Late-Occurring Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions may first appear several weeks after the initiation of VRAYLAR treatment, probably because plasma levels of cariprazine and its major metabolites accumulate over time. As a result, the incidence of adverse reactions in short-term trials may not reflect the rates after longer term exposures  [seeDosage and Administration ( 2.1),Adverse Reactions ( 6.1), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)].

Monitor for adverse reactions, including extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) or akathisia, and patient response for several weeks after a patient has begun VRAYLAR and after each dosage increase. Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing the drug. 

5.7      Metabolic Changes

Atypical antipsychotic drugs, including VRAYLAR, have caused metabolic changes, including hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and weight gain. There have been reports of hyperglycemia in patients treated with VRAYLAR. Although all drugs in the class to date have been shown to produce some metabolic changes, each drug has its own specific risk profile.

Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus

Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. Assess fasting plasma glucose before or soon after initiation of antipsychotic medication and monitor periodically during long-term treatment. 

Schizophrenia

In the 6-week, placebo-controlled trials of adult patients with schizophrenia, the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) and borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo. In the long-term, open-label schizophrenia studies, 4% patients with normal hemoglobin A1c baseline values developed elevated levels (≥ 6.5%).

BipolarDisorder

In six placebo-controlled trials up to 8-weeks of adult patients with bipolar disorder (mania or depression), the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) and borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo. In the long-term, open-label bipolar disorder studies, 4% patients with normal hemoglobin A1c baseline values developed elevated levels (≥ 6.5%).

Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder

In two 6-week placebo-controlled trials of adult patients with major depressive disorder, the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) was greatest in the VRAYLAR 3 mg per day + antidepressant therapy arm (3.2%) compared with those taking VRAYLAR 1.5 mg per day + antidepressant therapy (2%) or those placebo-treated (1.3%). The proportion of patients with shifts from normal to borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) or from borderline to high were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo. In a long-term, open-label adjunctive treatment of MDD study, 7% patients with normal hemoglobin A1c baseline values developed elevated levels (> 6%).

In one 8-week placebo-controlled trial of adult patients with major depressive disorder, the changes from baseline to end of the trial in fasting glucose were similar among the VRAYLAR and placebo + antidepressant therapy treatment groups. During the 8-week trial, serum insulin levels increased by 12 pmol/L in the VRAYLAR 1 mg to 2 mg per day group, 20 pmol/L in the VRAYLAR 2 mg to 4.5 mg per day group, and 8.5 pmol/L in the placebo group.

Dyslipidemia

Atypical antipsychotics cause adverse alterations in lipids. Before or soon after initiation of antipsychotic medication, obtain a fasting lipid profile at baseline and monitor periodically during treatment.

Schizophrenia

In the 6-week, placebo-controlled trials of adult patients with schizophrenia, the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo.

BipolarDisorder

In six placebo-controlled trials up to 8-weeks of adult patients with bipolar disorder (mania or depression), the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo.

Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder

In two 6-week placebo-controlled trials of adult patients with major depressive disorder, the proportion of patients with shifts in total cholesterol, fasting LDL, HDL, and fasting triglycerides were similar in patients treated with VRAYLAR and placebo.

WeightGain

Weight gain has been observed with use of atypical antipsychotics, including VRAYLAR. Monitor weight at baseline and frequently thereafter. Tables 2, 3, 4, and 5 show the change in body weight occurring from baseline to endpoint in 6-week trials of schizophrenia, 3-week bipolar mania trials, 6-week and 8-week bipolar depression trials, and 6-week and 8-week trials of adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder, respectively.

*Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
⸰The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

In long-term, uncontrolled trials with VRAYLAR in schizophrenia, the mean changes from baseline in weight at 12, 24, and 48 weeks were 1.2 kg, 1.7 kg, and 2.5 kg, respectively.

*Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
⸰The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

In the long-term, open-label adjunctive treatment of MDD trial, 2 patients (0.6%) discontinued due to weight increase. VRAYLAR was associated with mean change from baseline in weight of 1.7 kg at Week 26. In the long-term, open-label adjunctive treatment of MDD trial, 19% of patients demonstrated a ≥7% increase in body weight, and 5% demonstrated a ≥7% decrease in body weight.

5.8      Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis

Leukopenia and neutropenia have been reported during treatment with antipsychotic agents, including VRAYLAR. Agranulocytosis (including fatal cases) has been reported with other agents in the class.

Possible risk factors for leukopenia and neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) or absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and history of drug-induced leukopenia or neutropenia. In patients with a pre-existing low WBC or ANC or a history of drug-induced leukopenia or neutropenia, perform a complete blood count (CBC) frequently during the first few months of therapy. In such patients, consider discontinuation of VRAYLAR at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors.

Monitor patients with clinically significant neutropenia for fever or other symptoms or signs of infection and treat promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Discontinue VRAYLAR in patients with absolute neutrophil count < 1000/mm 3 and follow their WBC until recovery.

5.9      Orthostatic Hypotensionand Syncope

Atypical antipsychotics cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope. Generally, the risk is greatest during initial dose titration and when increasing the dose. Symptomatic orthostatic hypotension was infrequent in trials of VRAYLAR and was not more frequent on VRAYLAR than placebo. Syncope was not observed.

Orthostatic vital signs should be monitored in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension (e.g., elderly patients, patients with dehydration, hypovolemia, and concomitant treatment with antihypertensive medications), patients with known cardiovascular disease (history of myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or conduction abnormalities), and patients with cerebrovascular disease. VRAYLAR has not been evaluated in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable cardiovascular disease. Such patients were excluded from pre-marketing clinical trials.

5.10      Falls

Antipsychotics, including VRAYLAR, may cause somnolence, postural hypotension, motor and sensory instability, which may lead to falls and, consequently, fractures or other injuries. For patients with diseases, conditions, or medications that could exacerbate these effects, complete fall risk assessments when initiating antipsychotic treatment and recurrently for patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy.

5.11      Seizures

Like other antipsychotic drugs, VRAYLAR may cause seizures. This risk is greatest in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in older patients.

5.12      Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment

VRAYLAR, like other antipsychotics, may cause somnolence and has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills.

In 6-week schizophrenia trials, somnolence (hypersomnia, sedation, and somnolence) was reported in 7% of VRAYLAR-treated patients compared to 6% of placebo-treated patients. In 3-week bipolar mania trials, somnolence was reported in 8% of VRAYLAR-treated patients compared to 4% of placebo-treated patients. In two 6-week and one 8-week trials of depressive episodes of bipolar I disorder, VRAYLAR-treated patients reported 7% somnolence and 4% in the placebo-treated patients. In 6-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials, somnolence was reported in 6% of VRAYLAR-treated patients compared to 4% of placebo-treated patients. In one 8-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trial, somnolence was reported in 11% of VRAYLAR-treated patients compared to 6% of placebo-treated patients.

Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including motor vehicles, until they are reasonably certain that therapy with VRAYLAR does not affect them adversely.

5.13      Body TemperatureDysregulation

Atypical antipsychotics may disrupt the body’s ability to reduce core body temperature. Strenuous exercise, exposure to extreme heat, dehydration, and anticholinergic medications may contribute to an elevation in core body temperature; use VRAYLAR with caution in patient who may experience these conditions.

5.14      Dysphagia

Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use. Dysphagia has been reported with VRAYLAR. VRAYLAR and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration.

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.

The information below is derived from an integrated clinical study database for VRAYLAR consisting of 6,722 adult patients exposed to one or more doses of VRAYLAR for the treatment of schizophrenia, manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, bipolar depression, and adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder in placebo-controlled studies. This experience corresponds with a total experience of 1,182.8 patient-years. A total of 4,329 VRAYLAR-treated patients had at least 6 weeks and 296 VRAYLAR-treated patients had at least 48 weeks of exposure.

Patients with Schizophrenia

The following findings are based on four placebo-controlled, 6-week schizophrenia trials with VRAYLAR doses ranging from 1.5 to 12 mg once daily.  The maximum recommended dosage is 6 mg daily.

Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment:There was no single adverse reaction leading to discontinuation that occurred at a rate of ≥ 2% in VRAYLAR-treated patients and at least twice the rate of placebo. 

CommonAdverse Reactions (≥ 5% and at least twice therate ofplacebo): extrapyramidal symptoms and akathisia.

Adverse Reactions with an incidence of ≥ 2% and greater than placebo, at any dose are shown in Table 6.

Note: Figures rounded to the nearest integer
*Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
aTachycardia terms: heart rate increased, sinus tachycardia, tachycardia
bAbdominal pain terms:abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, abdominal pain lower, abdominal pain upper, gastrointestinal pain
cDiarrhea terms: diarrhea, frequent bowel movements
dFatigue  terms: asthenia, fatigue
eHepatic enzyme increase terms:alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, hepatic enzyme increased
fExtrapyramidal Symptoms terms:bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, drooling, dyskinesia, dystonia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypokinesia, masked facies, muscle rigidity, muscle tightness, Musculoskeletal stiffness, oculogyric crisis, oromandibular dystonia, parkinsonism, salivary hypersecretion, tardive dyskinesia, torticollis, tremor, trismus
gHeadache terms:headache, tension headache
hSomnolence  terms: hypersomnia, sedation, somnolence
iInsomnia terms: initial insomnia, insomnia, middle insomnia, terminal insomnia
jHypertension  terms: blood pressure diastolic increased, blood pressure increased, blood pressure systolic increased, hypertension
⸰The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

Patients with Bipolar Mania

The following findings are based on three placebo-controlled, 3-week bipolar mania trials with VRAYLAR doses ranging from 3 to 12 mg once daily. The maximum recommended dosage is 6 mg daily.

Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment: The adverse reaction leading to discontinuation that occurred at a rate of ≥ 2% in VRAYLAR-treated patients and at least twice the rate of placebo was akathisia (2%). Overall, 12% of the patients who received VRAYLAR discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 7% of placebo-treated patients in these trials.

Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 5% and at least twice the rate of placebo): extrapyramidal symptoms, akathisia, dyspepsia, vomiting, somnolence, and restlessness.

Adverse Reactions with an incidence of ≥ 2% and greater than placebo at any dose are shown in Table 7.

Note: Figures rounded to the nearest integer
*Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
aTachycardia terms:heart rate increased, sinus tachycardia, tachycardia
bAbdominal pain terms: abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, abdominal tenderness,
cDiarrhea: diarrhea, frequent bowel movements
dFatigue  terms: asthenia, fatigue
ePyrexia terms:body temperature increased, pyrexia  
fHepatic enzymes increased terms: alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, hepatic enzyme increased, transaminases increased
gExtrapyramidal Symptoms terms:bradykinesia, drooling, dyskinesia, dystonia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypokinesia, muscle rigidity, muscle tightness, musculoskeletal stiffness, oromandibular dystonia, parkinsonism, salivary hypersecretion, tremor  
hHeadache terms:headache, tension headache
iSomnolence terms: hypersomnia, sedation, somnolence
jInsomniaterms: initial insomnia, insomnia, middle insomnia
kHypertension  terms: blood pressure diastolic increased, blood pressure increased, hypertension
⸰ The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

Patients with Bipolar Depression

The following findings are based on three placebo-controlled, two 6-week and one 8-week bipolar depression trials with VRAYLAR doses of 1.5 mg and 3 mg once daily.

Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment:There were no adverse reaction leading to discontinuation that occurred at a rate of ≥ 2% in VRAYLAR-treated patients and at least twice the rate of placebo. Overall, 6% of the patients who received VRAYLAR discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 5% of placebo-treated patients in these trials.

Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 5% and at least twice the rate of placebo):nausea, akathisia, restlessness, and extrapyramidal symptoms.

Adverse Reactions with an incidence of ≥ 2% and greater than placebo at 1.5 mg or 3 mg doses are shown in Table 8.

aExtrapyramidal symptoms terms: akinesia, drooling, dyskinesia, dystonia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypokinesia, muscle tightness, musculoskeletal stiffness, myoclonus, oculogyric crisis, salivary hypersecretion, tardive dyskinesia, tremor
bSomnolence terms: hypersomnia, sedation, somnolence
cFatigue terms: asthenia, fatigue, malaise
dInsomnia terms: initial insomnia, insomnia, insomnia related to another mental condition, middle insomnia, sleep disorder, terminal insomnia

Adjunctive Therapy in Major Depressive Disorder

The following findings are based on two placebo-controlled, fixed-dose 6-week trials with VRAYLAR doses of 1.5 and 3 mg once daily plus an antidepressant and one placebo-controlled, flexible-dose 8-week trial with VRAYLAR doses of (1 to 2 mg) and (2 to 4.5 mg) once daily plus an antidepressant for adjunctive therapy in MDD.

Adverse Reactions Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment: The adverse reaction leading to discontinuation that occurred at a rate of ≥ 2% in VRAYLAR-treated patients and at least twice the rate of placebo was akathisia (2%). Overall, 6% of the patients who received VRAYLAR discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 3% of placebo-treated patients in these trials.

Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 5% and at least twice the rate of placebo): Akathisia, nausea, and insomnia occurred in two 6-week, fixed-dose trials. Akathisia, restlessness, fatigue, constipation, nausea, increased appetite, dizziness, insomnia, and extrapyramidal symptoms occurred in one 8-week flexible-dose trial.

Adverse Reactions with an incidence of ≥ 2% and greater than placebo at 1.5 mg or 3 mg doses are shown in Table 9 .

Note: Figures rounded to the nearest integer
aAkathisia terms:akathisia ,psychomotor hyperactivity, feeling jittery, nervousness, tension
bSomnolence terms: hypersomnia, sedation, lethargy, somnolence
cExtrapyramidal symptoms terms: drooling, dyskinesia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypotonia, muscle contractions involuntary, muscle rigidity, muscle spasms, muscle tightness, muscle twitching, musculoskeletal stiffness, myoclonus, oromandibular dystonia, parkinsonism, resting tremor, restless legs syndrome, stiff leg syndrome, salivary hypersecretion, stiff tongue, tardive dyskinesia, tremor, trismus
dInsomnia terms: initial insomnia, insomnia, middle insomnia, poor sleep quality, sleep disorder, terminal insomnia 

Adverse Reactions with an incidence of ≥ 2% and greater than placebo at 1 mg to 2 mg per day or 2 mg to 4.5 mg per day doses are shown in Table 10.   

aAkathisia terms: akathisia, feeling jittery, nervousness, tension
bExtrapyramidal symptoms terms: cogwheel rigidity, drooling, dyskinesia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypertonia, jaw stiffness, muscle contractions involuntary, muscle disorder, muscle rigidity, muscle spasms, muscle tightness, muscle twitching, musculoskeletal stiffness, nuchal rigidity, parkinsonism, psychomotor retardation, reduced facial expression, resting tremor, restless legs syndrome, sensation of heaviness, salivary hypersecretion, tremor
cSomnolence terms: hypersomnia, sedation, lethargy, somnolence
dInsomnia terms: initial insomnia, insomnia, middle insomnia, terminal insomnia, sleep disorder, poor sleep quality

Dystonia

Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. Although these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and higher doses of first-generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms(EPS)and Akathisia 

In schizophrenia, bipolar mania, bipolar depression, and adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials, data were objectively collected using the Simpson Angus Scale (SAS) for treatment-emergent EPS (parkinsonism) (SAS total score ≤ 3 at baseline and > 3 post-baseline) and the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) for treatment-emergent akathisia (BARS total score ≤ 2 at baseline and > 2 post-baseline).

In 6-week schizophrenia trials, the incidence of reported adverse reactions related to extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), excluding akathisia and restlessness was 17% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 8% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 0.3% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.2% of placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia was 11% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 4% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 0.5% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.2% of placebo-treated patients.

In 3-week bipolar mania trials, the incidence of reported adverse reactions related to extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), excluding akathisia and restlessness, was 28% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 12% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to a discontinuation in 1% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.2% of placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia was 20% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 5% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 2% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients.

In the two 6-week and one 8-week bipolar depression trials, the incidence of reported adverse reactions related to EPS, excluding akathisia and restlessness was 4% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 2% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 0.4% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia was 8% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 2% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 1.5% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients.

In the two 6-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials, the incidence of reported adverse reactions related to EPS, excluding akathisia and restlessness, was 6% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 4% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 0.3% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.6% of placebo-treated patients. The combined incidence of akathisia and restlessness was 12% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 4% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 2% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.4% of placebo-treated patients. 

In one 8-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trial, the incidence of reported adverse reactions related to EPS, excluding akathisia and restlessness, was 12% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 5% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 1% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.4% of placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia and restlessness was 22% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 6% for placebo-treated patients. These reactions led to discontinuation in 3% of VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.0% of placebo-treated patients.

Cataracts

The development of cataracts was observed in nonclinical studies [see Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.2)]. Cataracts were reported during the premarketing clinical trials of cariprazine; however, the duration of trials was too short to assess any association to cariprazine usage.

Vital Signs Changes

There were no clinically meaningful differences between VRAYLAR-treated patients and placebo-treated patients in mean change from baseline to endpoint in supine blood pressure parameters except for an increase in supine diastolic blood pressure in the 9 - 12 mg/day VRAYLAR-treated patients with schizophrenia.

Pooled data from 6-week schizophrenia trials are shown in Table 11, and from 3-week bipolar mania trials are shown in Table 12.

* Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
⸰The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

 * Data shown by modal daily dose, defined as most frequently administered dose per patient
⸰The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

In the two 6-week and one 8-week bipolar depression trials, there were no clinically meaningful differences between VRAYLAR-treated patients and placebo-treated patients in mean change from baseline to endpoint in supine systolic and diastolic blood pressure. VRAYLAR-treated patients’ supine blood pressure increased by 0.1 to 0.3 mmHg; placebo-treated patients’ supine blood pressure increased by 0.2 mmHg.

In two 6-week and one 8-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials, there were no clinically meaningful differences between VRAYLAR-treated patients and placebo-treated patients in mean change from baseline to endpoint in supine systolic and diastolic blood pressure. At the end of the 6-week trials, VRAYLAR-treated patients’ supine systolic blood pressure decreased by 0.1 to 0.7 mmHg; placebo-treated patients’ supine systolic blood pressure decreased by 0.1 mmHg. VRAYLAR-treated patients’ supine diastolic blood pressure increased by 0.1 mmHg and placebo-treated patients’ supine diastolic blood pressure increased by 0.2 mmHg. 

Changes in Laboratory Tests

The proportions of patients with transaminase elevations of ≥3 times the upper limits of the normal reference range in 6-week schizophrenia trials ranged between 1% and 2% for VRAYLAR-treated patients, increasing with dose, and was 1% for placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with transaminase elevations of ≥3 times the upper limits of the normal reference range in 3-week bipolar mania trials ranged between 2% and 4% for VRAYLAR-treated patients depending on dose group administered and 2% for placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with transaminase elevations of ≥3 times the upper limits of the normal reference range in 6-week and 8-week bipolar depression trials ranged between 0% and 0.5% for VRAYLAR-treated patients depending on dose group administered and 0.4% for placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with transaminase elevations of ≥3 times the upper limits of the normal reference range in two 6-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials ranged between 0% and 1% for VRAYLAR-treated patients depending on dose group administered and 0% for placebo-treated patients.

The proportions of patients with elevations of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) greater than 1000 U/L in 6-week schizophrenia trials ranged between 4% and 6% for VRAYLAR-treated patients, increasing with dose, and was 4% for placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with elevations of CPK greater than 1000 U/L in 3-week bipolar mania trials was about 4% in VRAYLAR and placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with elevations of CPK greater than 1000 U/L in 6-week and 8-week bipolar depression trials ranged between 0.2% and 1% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0.2% for placebo-treated patients. The proportions of patients with elevations of CPK greater than 1000 U/L in two 6-week adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder trials ranged between 0.6% and 0.8% for VRAYLAR-treated patients versus 0% for placebo-treated patients.

Other Adverse ReactionsObserved During the Pre-marketing Evaluation ofVRAYLAR

Adverse reactions listed below were reported by patients treated with VRAYLAR at doses of ≥ 1.5 mg once daily within the premarketing database of 5,763 VRAYLAR-treated patients. The reactions listed are those that could be of clinical importance, as well as reactions that are plausibly drug-related on pharmacologic or other grounds. Reactions that appear elsewhere in the VRAYLAR label are not included.

Reactions are further categorized by organ class and listed in order of decreasing frequency, according to the following definition: those occurring in at least 1/100 patients (frequent) [only those not already listed in the tabulated results from placebo-controlled studies appear in this listing]; those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients (infrequent); and those occurring in fewer than 1/1,000 patients (rare).

GastrointestinalDisorders:Infrequent: gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastritis 
HepatobiliaryDisorders:Rare:hepatitis
Metabolism andNutritionDisorders:Frequent: decreased appetite;Rare: hyponatremia
Musculoskeletal andConnectiveTissueDisorders:Rare: rhabdomyolysis
NervousSystemDisorders:Rare: ischemic stroke
PsychiatricDisorders:Infrequent:suicide ideation;Rare: completed suicide, suicide attempts 
Renal andUrinaryDisorders:Infrequent: pollakiuria
Skin andSubcutaneousTissueDisorders:Infrequent:hyperhidrosis

6.2      Postmarketing Experience

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

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders– Stevens-Johnson syndrome

7.1      Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions withVRAYLAR

12.1      Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of cariprazine is unknown. However, the efficacy of cariprazine could be mediated through a combination of partial agonist activity at central dopamine D 2and serotonin 5-HT 1Areceptors and antagonist activity at serotonin 5-HT 2Areceptors. Cariprazine forms two major metabolites, desmethylcariprazine (DCAR) and didesmethylcariprazine (DDCAR), that have in vitroreceptor binding profiles similar to the parent drug. 

12.2      Pharmacodynamics

Cariprazine acts as a partial agonist at the dopamine D 3and  D 2receptors with high binding affinity (K ivalues 0.085 nM, and 0.49 nM (D 2L) and 0.69 nM (D 2S), respectively) and at the serotonin 5-HT 1Areceptors (K ivalue 2.6 nM). Cariprazine acts as an antagonist at 5-HT 2B and 5-HT 2A receptors with high and moderate binding affinity (Ki values 0.58 nM and 18.8 nM respectively) as well as it binds to the histamine H 1receptors (K ivalue  23.2 nM). Cariprazine shows lower binding affinity to the serotonin 5-HT 2Cand α 1A- adrenergic receptors (K ivalues 134 nM and 155 nM, respectively) and has no appreciable affinity for cholinergic muscarinic receptors (IC 50>1000 nM).

Effect on QTc Interval

At a dose three-times the maximum recommended dose, cariprazine does not prolong the QTc interval to clinically relevant extent.

12.3      Pharmacokinetics

VRAYLAR activity is thought to be mediated by cariprazine and its two major active metabolites, desmethylcariprazine (DCAR) and didesmethylcariprazine (DDCAR), which are pharmacologically equipotent to cariprazine.

After multiple dose administration of VRAYLAR, mean cariprazine and DCAR concentrations reached steady state at around Week 1 to Week 2 and mean DDCAR concentrations appeared to be approaching steady state at around Week 4 to Week 8 in a 12-week study (Figure 1). The half-lives based on time to reach steady state, estimated from the mean concentration-time curves, are 2 to 4 days for cariprazine, about 1 to 2 days for DCAR, and approximately 1 to 3 weeks for DDCAR. The time to reach steady state for the major active metabolite DDCAR was variable across patients, with some patients not achieving steady state at the end of the 12 week treatment  [seeDosage and Administration( 2.1),Warnings and Precautions( 5.6)]. Mean concentrations of DCAR and DDCAR are approximately 30% and 400%, respectively, of cariprazine concentrations by the end of 12-week treatment.

After discontinuation of VRAYLAR, cariprazine, DCAR, and DDCAR plasma concentrations declined in a multi-exponential manner. Mean plasma concentrations of DDCAR decreased by about 50% 1 week after the last dose, and mean cariprazine and DCAR concentration dropped by about 50% in about 1 day. There was an approximately 90% decline in plasma exposure within 1 week for cariprazine and DCAR, and at about 4 weeks for DDCAR. Following a single dose of 1 mg of cariprazine administration, DDCAR remained detectable 8 weeks post-dose.

After multiple dosing of VRAYLAR, plasma exposure of cariprazine, DCAR, and DDCAR increases approximately proportionally over the therapeutic dose range.

Figure 1.Plasma Concentration(Mean ± SE)-Time Profile During and Following 
12-weeks of Treatment with Cariprazine 6 mg/daya

aTrough concentrations shown during treatment with cariprazine 6 mg/day.

  SE: standard error; TOTAL CAR: sum concentration of cariprazine, DCAR and DDCAR; CAR: cariprazine

Absorption 

After single dose administration of VRAYLAR, the peak plasma cariprazine concentration occurred in approximately 3-6 hours.  

Administration of a single dose of 1.5 mg VRAYLAR capsule with a high-fat meal did not significantly affect the C max and AUC of cariprazine or DCAR.

Distribution

Cariprazine and its major active metabolites are highly bound (91 to 97%) to plasma proteins.

Elimination

Metabolism

Cariprazine is extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and, to a lesser extent, by CYP2D6 to DCAR and DDCAR. DCAR is further metabolized into DDCAR by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. DDCAR is then metabolized by CYP3A4 to a hydroxylated metabolite.

Excretion

Following administration of 12.5 mg/day cariprazine to patients with schizophrenia for 27 days, about 21% of the daily dose was found in urine, with approximately 1.2% of the daily dose excreted in urine as unchanged cariprazine. 

Studies in Specific Populations

Hepatic Impairment

Compared to healthy subjects, exposure (C maxand AUC) in patients with either mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score between 5 and 9) was approximately 25% higher for cariprazine and 20% to 30% lower for the major metabolites (DCAR and DDCAR) following daily doses of 0.5 mg cariprazine for 14 days  [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6)].

Renal Impairment

Cariprazine and its major active metabolites are minimally excreted in urine. Pharmacokinetic analyses indicated no significant relationship between plasma clearance and creatinine clearance  [seeUse in Specific Populations ( 8.7)].

CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers

CYP2D6 poor metabolizer status does not have clinically relevant effect on pharmacokinetics of cariprazine, DCAR, or DDCAR.

Age, Sex, Race

Age, sex, or race does not have clinically relevant effect on pharmacokinetics of cariprazine, DCAR, or DDCAR.

Drug Interaction Studies

In vitrostudies

Cariprazine and its major active metabolites did not induce CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzymes and were weak inhibitors of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 in vitro. Cariprazine was also a weak inhibitor of CYP2C19, CYP2A6, and CYP2E1 in vitro.

Cariprazine and its major active metabolites are not substrates of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), the organic anion transporting polypeptides 1B1 and 1B3 (OATP1B1 and OATP1B3), or the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). 

Cariprazine and its major active metabolites were poor or non-inhibitors of transporters OATP1B1, OATP1B3, BCRP, organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2), and organic anion transporters 1 and 3 (OAT1 and OAT3) in vitro. The major active metabolites were also poor or non-inhibitors of transporter P-gp although cariprazine was probably a P-gp inhibitor based on the theoretical GI concentrations at high doses in vitro.

Based on in vitro studies, VRAYLAR is unlikely to cause clinically significant pharmacokinetic drug interactions with substrates of CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E, and CYP3A4, or OATP1B1, OATP1B3, BCRP, OCT2, OAT1 and OAT3.

In vivostudies

CYP3A4 inhibitors

Co-administration of ketoconazole (400 mg/day), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, with VRAYLAR (0.5 mg/day) increased cariprazine C maxand AUC 0-24hby about 3.5-fold and 4-fold, respectively; increased DDCAR C maxand AUC 0-24hby about 1.5-fold; and decreased DCAR C maxand AUC 0-24hby about one-third. The impact of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors has not been studied.

CYP3A4 inducers

CYP3A4 is responsible for the formation and elimination of the active metabolites of cariprazine. The effect of CYP3A4 inducers on the plasma exposure of cariprazine and its major active metabolites has not been evaluated, and the net effect is unclear.

CYP2D6 inhibitors

CYP2D6 inhibitors are not expected to influence pharmacokinetics of cariprazine, DCAR, or DDCAR based on the observations in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers. 

Proton pump inhibitors

Co-administration of pantoprazole (40 mg/day), a proton pump inhibitor, with VRAYLAR (6 mg/day) in patients with schizophrenia for 15 days did not affect cariprazine exposure at steady-state, based on C maxand AUC 0-24.  Similarly, no significant change in exposure to DCAR and DDCAR was observed.

13.1      Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis

There was no increase in the incidence of tumors following daily oral administration of cariprazine to rats for 2 years and to Tg.rasH2 mice for 6 months at doses which are up to 4 and 19 times respectively, the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine, (i.e. sum of AUC values of cariprazine, DCAR and DDCAR). 

Rats were administered cariprazine at oral doses of 0.25, 0.75, and 2.5 (males)/1, 2.5, and 7.5 mg/kg/day (females) which are 0.2 to 1.8 (males)/ 0.8 to 4.1 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. 

Tg.rasH2 mice were administered cariprazine at oral doses of 1, 5, and 15 (males)/5, 15, and 50 mg/kg/day (females) which are 0.2 to 7.9 (males)/2.6 to 19 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. 

Mutagenesis

Cariprazine was not mutagenic in the in vitrobacterial reverse mutation assay, nor clastogenic in the in vitro human lymphocyte chromosomal aberration assay or in the in vivomouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.  However, cariprazine increased the mutation frequency in the in vitromouse lymphoma assay under conditions of metabolic activation. The major human metabolite DDCAR was not  mutagenic in the in vitrobacterial reverse mutation assay, however, it was clastogenic and induced structural chromosomal aberration in the in vitrohuman lymphocyte chromosomal aberration assay.

Impairment of Fertility

Cariprazine was administered orally to male and female rats before mating, through mating, and up to day 7 of gestation at doses of 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg/day which are 1.6 to 16 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on mg/m 2. In female rats, lower fertility and conception indices were observed at all dose levels which are equal to or higher than 1.6 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on mg/m 2. No effects on male fertility were noted at any dose up to 4.3 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine.

13.2      Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Cariprazine caused bilateral cataract and cystic degeneration of the retina in the dog following oral daily administration for 13 weeks and/or 1 year and retinal degeneration/atrophy in the rat following oral daily administration for 2 years. Cataract in the dog was observed at 4 mg/kg/day which is 7.1 (male) and 7.7 (female) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. The NOEL for cataract and retinal toxicity in the dog is 2 mg/kg/day which is 5 (males) to 3.6 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. Increased incidence and severity of retinal degeneration/atrophy in the rat occurred at all doses tested, including the low dose of 0.75 mg/kg/day, at total cariprazine plasma levels less than clinical exposure (AUC) at the MRHD of 6 mg/day. Cataract was not observed in other repeat dose studies in pigmented mice or albino rats.

Phospholipidosis was observed in the lungs of rats, dogs, and mice (with or without inflammation) and in the adrenal gland cortex of dogs at clinically relevant exposures (AUC) of total cariprazine. Phospholipidosis was not reversible at the end of the 1-2 month drug-free periods. Inflammation was observed in the lungs of dogs dosed daily for 1 year with a NOEL of 1 mg/kg/day which is 2.7 (males) and 1.7 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. No inflammation was observed at the end of 2-month drug free period following administration of 2 mg/kg/day which is 5 (males) and 3.6 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine; however, inflammation was still present at higher doses.

Hypertrophy of the adrenal gland cortex was observed at clinically relevant total cariprazine plasma concentrations in rats (females only) and mice following daily oral administration of cariprazine for 2 years and 6 months, respectively.  Reversible hypertrophy/hyperplasia and vacuolation/vesiculation of the adrenal gland cortex were observed following daily oral administration of cariprazine to dogs for 1 year. The NOEL was 2 mg/kg/day which is 5 (males) and 3.6 (females) times the MRHD of 6 mg/day based on AUC of total cariprazine. The relevance of these findings to human risk is unknown.

14.1      Schizophrenia

The efficacy of VRAYLAR for the treatment of schizophrenia was established in three, 6-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in patients (mean age of 37 years, aged 18 to 60 years; 31% were female; and 45% were Caucasian) who met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4 thedition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for schizophrenia. An active control arm (risperidone or aripiprazole) was included in two trials to assess assay sensitivity. In all three trials, VRAYLAR was superior to placebo.

Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Clinical Global Impressions-Severity (CGI-S) rating scales were used as the primary and secondary efficacy measures, respectively, for assessing psychiatric signs and symptoms in each trial:

• PANSS is a 30-item scale that measures positive symptoms of schizophrenia (7 items), negative symptoms of schizophrenia (7 items), and general psychopathology (16 items), each rated on a scale of 1 (absent) to 7 (extreme). The PANSS total score may range from 30 to 210 with the higher score reflecting greater severity.  
  
• The CGI-S is a validated clinician-related scale that measures the patient’s current illness state and overall clinical state on a 1 (normal, not at all ill) to 7-point (extremely ill) scale.

In each study, the primary endpoint was change from baseline in PANSS total score at the end of week 6. The change from baseline for VRAYLAR and active control groups was compared to placebo. The results of the trials are shown in Table 14. The time course of efficacy results of Study 2 is shown in Figure 2.

Study 1: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 711) involving three fixed doses of VRAYLAR (1.5, 3, or 4.5 mg/day) and an active control (risperidone), all VRAYLAR doses and the active control were superior to placebo on the PANSS total score and the CGI-S.

Study 2: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 604) involving two fixed doses of VRAYLAR (3 or 6 mg/day) and an active control (aripiprazole), both VRAYLAR doses and the active control were superior to placebo on the PANSS total score and the CGI-S.

Study 3: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 439) involving two flexible-dose range groups of VRAYLAR (3 to 6 mg/day or 6 to 9 mg/day), both VRAYLAR groups were superior to placebo on the PANSS total score and the CGI-S.

The efficacy of VRAYLAR was demonstrated at doses ranging from 1.5 to 9 mg/day compared to placebo. There was, however, a dose-related increase in certain adverse reactions, particularly above 6 mg. Therefore, the maximum recommended dose is 6 mg/day.

Examination of population subgroups based on age (there were few patients over 55), sex, and race did not suggest any clear evidence of differential responsiveness.

Figure 2.Change from Baseline in PANSS total scoreby weekly visits (Study 2)

The safety and efficacy of VRAYLAR as maintenance treatment in adults with schizophrenia were demonstrated in a randomized withdrawal trial that included 200 patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia who were clinically stable following 20 weeks of open-label cariprazine at doses of 3 to 9 mg/day. Patients were randomized to receive either placebo or cariprazine at the same dose for up to 72 weeks for observation of relapse.  The primary endpoint was time to relapse.  Relapse during the double-blind phase (DBP) was defined as meeting any one of the following criteria: hospitalization due to worsening of schizophrenia, increase in the PANSS total score by ≥ 30%, increase in CGI-S score by ≥ 2 points, deliberate self-injury, aggressive or violent behavior, clinically significant suicidal or homicidal ideation, or score >4 on one or more of the following PANSS items: delusions (P1), conceptual disorganization (P2), hallucination (P3), suspiciousness or persecution (P6), hostility (P7), uncooperativeness (G8), or poor impulse control (G14).

The efficacy of VRAYLAR was demonstrated at doses ranging from 3 to 9 mg/day compared to placebo. There was, however, a dose-related increase in certain adverse reactions, particularly above 6 mg. Therefore, the maximum recommended dose is 6 mg/day. 

The Kaplan-Meier curves of the time to relapse during the double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized withdrawal phase of the long-term trial are shown in Figure 3. Time to relapse was statistically significantly longer in the VRAYLAR-treated group compared to the placebo group.

Figure3.Kaplan-Meier Curves of Cumulative Rate of Relapse During the Double-Blind Treatment Period

DB = double-blind
*The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

14.2      Manic or Mixed Episodes Associated withBipolarIDisorder

The efficacy of VRAYLAR in the acute treatment of bipolar mania was established in three, 3-week placebo-controlled trials in patients (mean age of 39 years, range 18 to 65 years; 40% were female; and 48% were Caucasian) who met DSM-IV-TR criteria for bipolar 1 disorder with manic or mixed episodes with or without psychotic features. In all three trials, VRAYLAR was superior to placebo.

Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and Clinical Global Impressions-Severity scale (CGI-S) were used as the primary and secondary efficacy measures, respectively, for assessing psychiatric signs and symptoms in each trial:

• The YMRS is an 11-item clinician-rated scale traditionally used to assess the degree of manic symptomatology. YMRS total score may range from 0 to 60 with a higher score reflecting greater severity.
  
• The CGI-S is validated clinician-related scale that measures the patient’s current illness state and overall clinical state on a 1 (normal, not at all ill) to 7-point (extremely ill) scale. 

In each study, the primary endpoint was decrease from baseline in YMRS total score at the end of week 3. The change from baseline for each VRAYLAR dose group was compared to placebo. The results of the trials are shown in Table 15. The time course of efficacy results is shown in Figure 4.

Study 4: In a 3-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 492) involving two flexible-dose range groups of VRAYLAR (3 to 6 mg/day or 6 to 12 mg/day), both VRAYLAR dose groups were superior to placebo on the YMRS total score and the CGI-S. The 6 to 12 mg/day dose group showed no additional advantage.

Study 5: In a 3-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 235) involving a flexible-dose range of VRAYLAR (3 to 12 mg/day), VRAYLAR was superior to placebo on the YMRS total score and the CGI-S.  

Study 6: In a 3-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 310) involving a flexible-dose range of VRAYLAR (3 to 12 mg/day), VRAYLAR was superior to placebo on the YMRS total score and the CGI-S.  

The efficacy of VRAYLAR was established at doses ranging from 3 to 12 mg/day. Doses above 6 mg did not appear to have additional benefit over lower doses (Table 15), and there was a dose-related increase in certain adverse reactions. Therefore, the maximum recommended dose is 6 mg/day.

Examination of population subgroups based on age (there were few patients over 55), sex, and race did not suggest any clear evidence of differential responsiveness.

Figure4. Change from Baseline in YMRStotalscore bystudyvisit (Study4)

* The maximum recommended daily dose is 6 mg. Doses above 6 mg daily do not confer increased effectiveness sufficient to outweigh dose-related adverse reactions.

14.3      Depressive Episodes Associated with Bipolar I Disorder (Bipolar Depression)

The efficacy of VRAYLAR in the treatment of depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) was established in one 8-week and two 6-week placebo-controlled trials in patients (mean age of 43 years, range 18 to 65 years; 61% were female; and 75% were Caucasian) who met DSM-IV-TR or DSM-5 criteria for depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.

In each study, the primary endpoint was change from baseline in Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score at the end of Week 6. The MADRS is a 10-item clinician-rated scale with total scores ranging from 0 (no depressive features) to 60 (maximum score). The MADRS total score change from baseline for VRAYLAR compared to placebo is shown in Table 16. The time course of efficacy results of Study 8 is shown in Figure 5. In each study, the VRAYLAR 1.5 mg dose demonstrated statistical significance over placebo. The secondary endpoint was change from baseline to Week 6 in CGI-S. The CGI-S is validated clinician-related scale that measures the patient’s current illness state and overall clinical state on a 1 (normal, not at all ill) to 7-point (extremely ill) scale.  

Study 7: In an 8-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 571) involving three-fixed doses of VRAYLAR (0.75 mg/day, 1.5 mg/day, and 3 mg/day), VRAYLAR 1.5 mg was superior to placebo at end of Week 6 on the MADRS total score and the CGI-S.

Study 8: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 474) involving two-fixed doses of VRAYLAR (1.5 mg/day and 3 mg/day), VRAYLAR 1.5 mg and 3 mg were superior to placebo at end of Week 6 on the MADRS total score.

Study 9: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 478) involving two-fixed doses of VRAYLAR (1.5 mg/day and 3 mg/day), VRAYLAR 1.5 mg was superior to placebo at end of Week 6 on the MADRS total score and the CGI-S.

Examination of population subgroups based on age (there were few patients over 55), sex, and race did not suggest any clear evidence of differential responsiveness.

Figure 5. LS Mean* Change from Baseline in MADRS Total Score by Visits (Study 8)

14.4      Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder

The efficacy of VRAYLAR as adjunctive therapy to antidepressants for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) was evaluated in 2 trials in adult patients (mean age of 45 years, range 18 to 65 years; 72% were female; and 85% were Caucasian) who met DSM-IV-TR or DSM-5 criteria for MDD, with or without symptoms of anxiety, who had an inadequate response to 1 to 3 courses of prior antidepressant (ADT) therapy. Inadequate response during antidepressant treatment was defined as less than 50% improvement to antidepressant treatment of adequate dose and adequate duration.

In each study, the primary endpoint was change from baseline to Week 6 (Study 10) or Week 8 (Study 11) in the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score, a 10-item clinician-rated scale used to assess the degree of depressive symptomatology, with 0 representing no symptoms and 60 representing worst symptoms. 

Study 10: In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 751) involving two fixed doses of VRAYLAR (1.5 mg per day or 3 mg per day) + ADT, VRAYLAR 1.5 mg + ADT was superior to placebo + ADT at end of Week 6 on the MADRS total score. The treatment effect in the VRAYLAR 3 mg per day + ADT group (vs. placebo + ADT) was not statistically significant.

Study 11: An 8-week, placebo-controlled trial (N = 808) involved flexible doses of VRAYLAR 1 to 2 mg per day + ADT or 2 to 4.5 mg per day + ADT. VRAYLAR 2 to 4.5 mg (mean dose was 2.6 mg) + ADT was superior to placebo + ADT at end of Week 8 on the MADRS total score. The treatment effect in the VRAYLAR 1 to 2 mg per day + ADT group (vs. placebo + ADT) was not statistically significant.

Results from the primary efficacy parameters for both trials (Studies 10 and 11) are shown below in Table 17. Figure 6 below shows the time course of response based on the primary efficacy measure (MADRS total score) in Study 10.

SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: unadjusted confidence interval
* Dosages statistically significantly superior to placebo
aDifference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline

Examination of population subgroups based on age, sex, and race did not suggest any clear evidence of differential responsiveness.

Figure6. LSMean‡  Changefrom Baselineto Week6i n MADRS Total ScoreinAdjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder(Study 10)

‡ LS Mean: least-squares mean

* Dose was not statistically significant.