Zymfentra
(infliximab-dyyb)Dosage & Administration
Important Dosage Information. .
Recommeneded Maintenance Dosage in Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Direase
Get Your Patient on Zymfentra
Zymfentra Prescribing Information
WARNING: SERIOUS INFECTIONS and MALIGNANCY
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning
- Increased risk of serious infections leading to hospitalization or death, including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial sepsis, invasive fungal infections (such as hitoplasmosis) and infections due to ohter opportunistic pathogens.
- Discontinue ZYMFENTRA if a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis.
- Perform test for latent TB; if positive, start treatment for TB prior to starting ZYMFENTRA. Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even if initial latent TB test is negative.
- Lymphoma and other malignancies, some fatal, have been reported in children and adolescent patients treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, including infliximab products.
- Postmarketing cases of fatal hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL) have been reported in patients treated with TNF blockers including infliximab products. Almost all had received azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine concomitantly with a TNF blocker at or prior to diagnosis. The majority of cases were reported in patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, most of whom were adolescent or young adult males. ( 5.2)
ZYMFENTRA is indicated in adults for maintenance treatment of:
- moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis following treatment with an infliximab product administered intravenously.
- moderately to severely active Crohn's disease following treatment with an infliximab product administered intravetnously.
Important Dosage Information
- ZYMFENTRA is indicated as maintenance treatment only, starting at Week 10 and thereafter.▫ All patients mush coplete an intravenous induction regimen with an infliximab product before starting ZYMFENTRA. For induction dosing information, see the corresponding full prescribing information for the chosen infliximab product.
- ZYMFENTRA is for subtutaneous use only.
Recommeneded Dosage for Maintenance Treatment in Ulcerative Colitis Crohn's Disease
- Maintenance dosage starting at Week 10 and thereafter: 120 mg subcutaneously once every two weeks. To switch patients who are responding to maintenance therapy with an infliximab product administered intravenously, administer the first subcutaneous dose of ZYMFNETRA in place of the next scheuled intravenous infusion and every two weeks thereafter.
Subcutaenous Administration Instructions
- ZYMFENTRA is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.
- If a healthcare professional determines that it is appropriate, patients may self-injection ZYMFENTRA or caregivers may injection ZYMFENTRA using either the ZYMFENTRA prefilled syringe, ZYMFENTRA prefilled syringe with needle guard, or ZYMFENTRA prefilled pen after proper training in subcutaenous injection technique.
- Parental drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whether solution and container permit. ZYMFENTRA should be a clear, colorless to pale brwon solution. Do not use if particulates or discoloration is presnet.
- Inject into the front of the tights, the abdomen excepts for the 2 inches around the navel, or the outer area of the upper arms (caregiver only).
- Rotate the injectoin site each time an inejction is given. Allow at least 1.2 inches between the new injection site and the previous inejction site. Never inject into areas where the skin is red, bruised, tender, or indurated.
- Do not use the syringe or pen of it has been dropped or is visibly damaged. A damaged syringe may not function proprely.
- Do not resue or shake the syringe or pen at any time.
Mixed Dose
If an injection of ZYMFENTRA is missed, inject the next subcutaneous dose as soon as possible and then every two weeks thereafter.
ZYMFENTRA (infliximab-dyyb) is a clear, colorless to pale brown solution available as follow:
- Injection: 120 mg/mL in a single-dose prefilled syringe.
- Injection: 120 mg/mL in a single-dose prefilled syringe with needle guard.
- Injection: 120 mg/mL in a single-dose prefilled pen.
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Available data from reports of pregnancy in clinical trials with ZYMFENTRA are insufficient to identify a drug associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are risks to the mother and the fetus associated with inflammatory bowel disease
in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations).
Available observational data in pregnant women exposed to infliximab products administered intravenously showed no increased risk of major malformations among live births as compared to those exposed to non-biologics. Most TNF blockers, such as infliximab products, administered
intravenously are transferred across the placenta during the third trimester of pregnancy and may affect immune response in the in utero exposed infant. Infants exposed in utero should not be administered live vaccines for at least 6 months after birth (see Clinical Considerations). Because infliximab products do not cross-react with TNFα in species other than humans and chimpanzees, animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with ZYMFENTRA.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations 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
miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Consideration
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
Published data suggest that there is an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with inflammatory bowel disease associated with increased disease activity. Adverse pregnancy outcomes include preterm delivery (before 37 weeks of gestation), low birth weight (less than 2.5
kg) and small for gestational age at birth.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
The risk of fetal/neonatal adverse reactions with in utero exposure to infliximab-dyyb administered subcutaneously is unknown. However, most TNF blockers, such as infliximab products, cross the placenta and have been detected in infant serum up to 6 months following birth. Consequently, infants exposed to infliximab products may be at increased risk of infection, including disseminated infection which can become fatal. At least a six-month waiting period following birth is recommended before the administration of live vaccines (e.g., BCG vaccine or other live vaccines, such as the rotavirus vaccine) to infants exposed to intravenous infliximab in utero [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Cases of agranulocytosis in infants exposed to intravenous infliximab in utero have also been reported. Therefore, ZYMFENTRA, administered during pregnancy may affect immune responses in the in utero-exposed newborn and infant [see Adverse Reactions 6.2].
Data
Animal Data
Because infliximab products do not cross-react with TNFα in species other than humans and chimpanzees, animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with ZYMFENTRA.
Lactation
Risk Summary
There are no data on the presence of infliximab-dyyb or its metabolites in either human or animal milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production after subcutaneous administration. Published literature show that infliximab is present at low levels in human milk after intravenous administration. Systemic exposure in a breastfed infant is expected to be low because infliximab products are largely degraded in the gastrointestinal tract. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ZYMFNETRA and any potential adverse effects on the brestfed child from ZYMFENTRA or from the underlying maternal condition.
Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatirc Use
Clinical trials of ZYMFENTRA did not include sufficient numbers of sugjects aged 65 and over (8 subjects with UC and 6 subjects with CD) to determined whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
ZYMFENTRA is contraindicated in patients with a history of a severe hypersensitivity reaction to infliximab-dyyb, other infliximab products, any of the inactive ingredients in ZYMFENTRA, or any murine proteins. Reactions have included anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Serious Infections
Patients treated with ZYMFENTRA are at increased risk for developing serious infections involving various organ systems and sites that may lead to hospitalization or death.
Opportunistic infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, or parasitic organisms including aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, legionellosis, listeriosis, pneumocystosis, salmonellosis and tuberculosis have been reported with TNF blockers. Patients have frequently presented with disseminated rather than localized disease.
Treatment with ZYMFENTRA should not be initiated in patients with an active infection, including clinically important localized infections.Patients greater than 65 years of age, patients with comorbid-conditions and/or patients taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids or methotrexate may be at greater risk of infection. The risks and benefits of treatment should be considered prior to initiating therapy in patients:
- with chronic or recurrent infection;
- who have been exposed to tuberculosis;
- with a history of an opportunistic infection;
- who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses, such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis; or
- with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection.
Tuberculosis
Cases of reactivation of tuberculosis or new tuberculosis infections have been observed in patients receiving TNF-blockers, including patients who have previously received treatment for latent or active tuberculosis. Cases of active tuberculosis have also occurred in patients being treated with infliximab products during treatment for latent tuberculosis. Evaluate patients for tuberculosis risk factors and test for latent infection prior to initiating ZYMFENTRA and periodically during therapy.
Treatment of latent tuberculosis infection prior to therapy with TNF blockers has been shown to reduce the risk of tuberculosis reactivation during therapy. Induration of 5 mm or greater with tuberculin skin testing should be considered a positive test result when assessing if treatment for latent tuberculosis is needed prior to initiating ZYMFENTRA even for patients previously vaccinated with Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG).
Consider anti-tuberculosis therapy prior to initiation of ZYMFENTRA in patients with a past history of latent or active tuberculosis in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed, and for patients with a negative test for latent tuberculosis but having risk factors for tuberculosis infection. Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of tuberculosis is recommended to aid in the decision whether initiating anti-tuberculosis therapy is appropriate for an individual patient.
Tuberculosis should be strongly considered in patients who develop a new infection during treatment with ZYMFENTRA especially in patients who have previously or recently traveled to countries with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, or who have had close contact with a person with active tuberculosis.
Monitoring
Closely monitor patients for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with ZYMFENTRA including the development of tuberculosis in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infection prior to initiating therapy. Tests for latent tuberculosis infection may also be falsely negative while on therapy with ZYMFENTRA.
Discontinue ZYMFENTRA if a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis. A patient who develops a new infection during treatment with ZYMFENTRA should undergo prompt and complete diagnostic workup appropriate for an immunocompromised patient; and appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be initiated, and the patient should be closely monitored.
Invasive Fungal Infections
For patients who reside or travel in regions where mycoses are endemic, invasive fungal infection should be suspected if they develop a serious systemic illness. Appropriate empiric antifungal therapy should be considered while a diagnostic workup is being performed. Antigen and antibody testing for histoplasmosis may be negative in some patients with active infection. When feasible, the decision to administer empiric antifungal therapy in these patients should be made in consultation with a physician with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of invasive fungal infections and should take into account both the risk for severe fungal infection and the risks of antifungal therapy.
Malignancies
Malignancies, some fatal, have been reported among children, adolescents and young adults who received treatment with TNF blockers (initiation of therapy ≤18 years of age), including infliximab products. AApproximately half of these cases were lymphomas, including Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The other cases represented a variety of malignancies, including rare malignancies that are usually associated with immunosuppression and malignancies that are not usually observed in children and adolescents. The malignancies occurred after a median of 30 months (range 1 to 84 months) after the first dose of TNF blocker therapy. Most of the patients were receiving concomitant immunosuppressants. These cases were reported postmarketing and are derived from a variety of sources, including registries and spontaneous postmarketing reports.
Lymphomas
In the controlled portions of clinical trials of TNF blockers, more cases of lymphoma have been observed among patients receiving a TNF blocker compared with control patients. Cases of acute and chronic leukemia have been reported with postmarketing TNF blocker use, including infliximab products.
Hepatosplenic T-cell Lymphoma (HSTCL)
Postmarketing cases of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL), a rare type of T-cell lymphoma, have been reported in patients treated with TNF blockers, including infliximab products. TThese cases have had a very aggressive disease course and have been fatal. Almost all patients had received treatment with the immunosuppressants azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine concomitantly with a TNF blocker at or prior to diagnosis. The majority of reported cases have occurred in patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and most were in adolescent and young adult males. It is uncertain whether the occurrence of HSTCL is related to TNF blockers or TNF blockers in combination with these other immunosuppressants. When treating patients, consideration of whether to use ZYMFENTRA alone or in combination with other immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine should take into account a possibility that there is a higher risk of HSTCL with combination therapy versus an observed increased risk of immunogenicity and hypersensitivity reactions with TNF blocker monotherapy from the clinical trial data [see Warnings and Precautions ]
Skin Cancer
Melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma have been reported in patients treated with TNF blocker therapy, including infliximab products. Periodic skin examination is recommended for all patients during treatment with ZYMFENTRA, particularly those with risk factors for skin cancer.
Cervical Cancer
Cases of invasive cervical cancer have been reported postmarketing in women who received infliximab products for other conditions. A causal relationship between infliximab products and cervical cancer cannot be excluded. Routine cervical cancer screening is recommended during treatment with ZYMFENTRA.
Other Malignancies
In the controlled pportions of clinical trials of some TNF blockers, including infliximab products, more malignancies (excluding lymphoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer) have been observed in patients receiving those TNF blockers compared with control patients. The most common malignancies were breast, colorectal, and melanoma in these controlled trials of TNF blockers.
In controlled trials of TNF blockers in adult patients at higher risk for malignancies (i.e., patients with COPD with a significant smoking history and cyclophosphamide-treated patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis), a greater proportion of malignancies occurred in the TNF blocker group compared to the control group. Patients had a history of heavy smoking. Avoid ZYMFENTRA in patients with moderate to severe COPD.
The potential role of TNF blockers in the development of malignancies is not known. Avoid ZYMFENTRA treatment in patients with a history of malignancy or in continuing treatment in patients who develop malignancy while receiving ZYMFENTRA.
Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation
Use of TNF blockers has been associated with reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients who are chronic carriers of this virus. In some instances, HBV reactivation occurring in conjunction with TNF blocker therapy has been fatal. The majority of these reports have occurred in patients concomitantly receiving other medications that suppress the immune system, which may also contribute to HBV reactivation.
Test patients for HBV infection before initiating TNF blocker therapy, including ZYMFENTRA. For patients who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen, consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of hepatitis B is recommended. Adequate data are not available on the safety or efficacy of treating patients who are carriers of HBV with antiviral therapy in conjunction with TNF blocker therapy to prevent HBV reactivation. Patients who are carriers of HBV and require treatment with TNF blockers, including ZYMFENTRA, should be closely monitored for clinical and laboratory signs of active HBV infection throughout therapy and for several months following termination of therapy.
In patients who develop HBV reactivation, discontinue ZYMFENTRA and initiate antiviral therapy with appropriate supportive treatment. The safety of resuming TNF blocker therapy after HBV reactivation is controlled is not known. Therefore, prescribers should exercise caution when considering resumption of ZYMFENTRA in this situation and monitor patients closely.
Hepatotoxicity
Hepatobiliary disorders, including acute liver failure, jaundice abnormal hepatic function, hepatic steatosis, hepatitis, hepatotoxicity, hyperbilirubinemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver, have been reported in postmarketing data in patients receiving infliximab products. Autoimmune hepatitis has been diagnosed in some of these cases. Severe hepatic reactions occurred between two weeks to more than one year after initiation of infliximab products administered intravenously; elevations in hepatic aminotransferase levels were not noted prior to discovery of the liver injury in many of these cases. Some of these cases were fatal or necessitated liver transplantation.
In clinical trials, three subjects treated with ZYMFENTRA had drug induced liver injury based on hepatic transaminase elevations, including one subject with accompanying bilirubin elevation [see Adverse Reactions ].
Monitor hepatic enzymes and liver function tests every 3 to 4 months during treatment with ZYMFENTRA. Prompt investigation of the cause of liver enzyme elevation should be undertaken to identify potential cases of drug-induced liver injury. Interrupt treatment if drug-induced liver injury is suspected, until this diagnosis is excluded. Instruct patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfuction.
Congestive Heart Failure
Cases of worsening congestive heart failure (CHF) and new onset CHF, with and without identifiable precipitating factors (e.g., pre-existing cardiovascular disease), have been reported with TNF blockers, including infliximab products. Some of these patients have been under 50 years of age, and some cases had a fatal outcome. In several exploratory trials of other TNF blockers in the treatment of CHF, there were greater proportions of TNF-blocker-treated patients who had CHF exacerbations requiring hospitalization or increased mortality. ZYMFENTRA has not been studied in patients with a history of CHF. Avoid ZYMFENTRA in patients with CHF.
If a decision is made to administer ZYMFENTRA to patients with CHF, closely monitor patients during therapy for new or worsening symptoms of heart failure and discontinue ZYMFENTRA if symptoms appear.
Hematologic Reactions
Report of pancytopenia including aplastic anemia have been reported with TNF blocking agents. Cases of leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and pancytopenia, some with a fatal outcome, have been reported in patients receiving infliximab products. Clinically significant events of neutropenia were noted in the clinical trials of ZYMFENTRA. The causal relationship to infliximab product therapy remains unclear. Although no high-risk group(s) has been identified, avoid ZYMFENTRA in patients who have ongoing or a history of significant hematologic abnormalities. Advise all patients to seek immediate medical attention if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of blood dyscrasias or infection (e.g., persistent fever) during treatment with ZYMFENTRA. Consider discontinuation of ZYMFENTRA therapy in patients who develop significant hematologic abnormalities.
Hypersensitivity and Other Administration Reactions
In clinical trials of ZYMFENTRA, symptoms compatible with hypersensitivity reactions have been reported including bronchospasm, dyspnea, rash, and edema. In post-marketing experience, serious systemic hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis, hypotension, and serum sickness) have been reported following administration of infliximab products. If an anaphylactic or other clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction occurs, institute appropriate therapy and discontinue ZYMFENTRA. There are no data on the risks of using ZYMFENTRA in patients who have experienced a severe hypersensitivity reaction towards another TNF blocker; in these patients, caution is needed.
Neurologic Reactions
Agents that inhibit TNF have been associated with central nervous system (CNS) manifestation of systemic vasculitis, seizure and new onset or exacerbation of clinical symptoms and/or radiographic evidence of CNS demyelinating disorders, including multiple sclerosis and optic neuritis, and peripheral demyelinating disorders, including Guillain-Barré syndrome. Avoid the use of ZYMFENTRA in patients with these neurologic disorders and consider discontinuation of ZYMFENTRA if these disorders develop.
Risk of Infection with Concurrent Administration with Other Biological Products
Serious infections and neutropenia have been reported with concurrent use of TNF-blockers and other immunosuppressive biological products (e.g., anakinra and abatacept). The concurrent use of ZYMFENTRA with other immunosuppressive biological products used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease may increase the risk of infection and is not recommended [see Drug Interactions ].
Risk of Additive Immunosuppressive Effects from Prior Biological Products
Consider the half-life and mode of action of prior biological products to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ZYMFENTRA [see Drug Interactions ].
Autoimmunity
Treatment with TNF blockers, iincluding ZYMFENTRA may result in the formation of autoantibodies and in the development of a lupus-like syndrome. If a patient develops symptoms suggestive of a lupus-like syndrome following treatment with ZYMFENTRA, discontinue treatment.
Vaccinations and Use of Live Vaccines/Therapeutic Infectious Agents
Vaccinations
Prior to initiating ZYMFENTRA in adult patients, update vaccinations in accordance with current vaccination guidelines.
Live Vaccines and Theraeputic Infectious Agents
In patients receiving TNF blockers, limited data are available on the response to vaccination with live vaccines or on the secondary transmission of infection by live vaccines. Use of live vaccines can result in clinical infections, including disseminated infections. The concurrent administration of live vaccines with ZYMFENTRA is not recommended.
Fatal outcome due to disseminated BCG infection has been reported in an infant who received a BCG vaccine after in utero exposure to infliximab products. Infliximab is known to cross the placenta and has been detected in the serum of infants up to 6 months following birth. A 6-month waiting period following birth is recommended before the administration of any live vaccine to infants exposed in utero to infliximab products.
Other uses of therapeutic infectious agents such as live attenuated bacteria (e.g., BCG bladder instillation for the treatment of cancer) could result in clinical infections, including disseminated infections. It is recommended that therapeutic infectious agents not be given concurrently with ZYMFENTRA.
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
- Serious infections [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Hepatitis B virus reactivation [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Hepatotoxicity [seeWarning and Precautions ]
- Congestive heart failure [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Hematologic reactions [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Hypersensitivity and other administration reactions [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Neruologic reactions [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
- Autoimmunity [seeWarnings and Precautions ]
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 data described below reflect exposure to ZYMFENTRA in 518 adult subjects in two 54-weekrandomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in subjects with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease (CD) (UC Trial I an CD Trial I). Subject who achieved clinical response following three induction doses of infliximab-dyyb administered as an intravenous infusion at Week 0, 2 and 6 were randomized 2:1 to ZYMFENTRA 120 mg or placebo as a subcutaneous injection every two weeks at Week 10 [see Clinical Studies ].
Ulcerative Colitis
The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥3% of subjects and at a higher rate than Placebo in UC Trial I are shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Adverse Reactionsa in the Maintenance Phase of a Randomized, Double-Blind54-Week Study of Subjects with UC (UC Tral I) | ||
ZYMFENTRA 120 mg Subcutaneous Injectionb N=296 (%) | Placebo N=140 (%) | |
COVID-19 | 10 | 6 |
Anemiad | 5 | 4 |
Arthralgia | 4 | 1 |
| Injection site reaction# | 3 | 2 |
Increased alanine aminotransferase | 3 | 1 |
Abominal painf | 3 | 1 |
areported in at least 3% of ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects and at a higher than placebo bZYMFENTRA 120 mg as a subcutaneous injection every two weeks starting Week 10 following 3 intravenous induction doses of inflixiab-dyyb cIncludes: COVID-19 and COVID-19 pneumonia dIncludes: anemia and iron deficiency anemia #Some subjects had multiple occurences of injection site reactions. In this table, injection site reactions are counted only once per subject. Symptoms in individual subjects included one or more of injection site bruising, edema, erythema, induration, pain, pruritus and swelling. fIncludes: abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, lower abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort | ||
Crohn's Disease
The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥3% of subjects and at a higher rate than placebo in CD Trial I are shown in Table 2.
Table 2 Adverse Reactionsa in the Maintenance Phase of a Randomized, Double-Blind | ||
ZYMFENTRA 120 mg Subcutaneous Injectionb N=222 (%) | Placebo N=101 (%) | |
COVID-19 | 10 | 5 |
Headache | 8 | 4 |
Upper respiratory track infectionsdc | 7 | 3 |
Injection site reactiond | 5 | 1 |
Diarrhea | 5 | 1 |
Increased blood creatine phosphokinase | 4 | 2 |
Arthralgia | 4 | 3 |
Increased alaine aninotransferase | 4 | 1 |
| Hypertensionse | 3 | 2 |
| Urinary track infectionf | 3 | 2 |
| Neutropenia | 3 | 0 |
| Dizziness | 3 | 0 |
Leukopenia | 3 | 0 |
a reported in at least 3% of ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects and at a higher rate than placebo b ZYMFENTRA 120 mg administered subcutaneously starting at Week 10 and every 2 weeks thereafter for up to Week 54. c Includes: upper respiratory tract infection, acute sinusitis, chronic sinusitis, influenza like illness, nasopharyngitis, pharyngitis, pharyngitis streptococcal, rhinitis, rhinorrhea, rhinovirus infection, sinusitis, tonsillitis d Some subjects had multiple occurrences of injection site reactions. In this table, injection site reactions are counted only once per subject. Symptoms in individual subjects included one or more of injection site bruising, edema, erythema, induration, pain, pruritus, rash, swelling, warmth. e Includes: hypertension and essential hypertension f Includes: urinary tract infection, pyelonephritis | ||
Adverse Evetns of Special Interest
Infections
In UC Trial I, at leaset one serious infection was reported in 3% of ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects compared to 1% in the plaebo group. Serious infections in the ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects were COVID-19, cystitis, pneumonia, salpingitis, and urinary tract injection [seeWarnings and Precautions ].
In CD Trial I, infections were observed in 30% of ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects compare to 187% of placebo-treated subjects. At least one serious infection was reported in 3% of ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects compared to 1% in the placebo group. Serious infections in the ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects were abscess, appendicitis, bacterial arthritis, bartholinitis, bronchiolitis, and urinary tract infection [seeWarnings and Precautions ].
Malignancies
In UC Trial I, malignancy (prostate cancer) was reported in a ZYMFENTRA-treated subject. No malignancies were reported among placebo-treated subjects [seeWarnings and Precautions ].
In another clinical trial in patients with CD, one malignancy (non-small cell lung cancer) was reported in a ZYMFENTRA-treated subject [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Hepatotoxicity
Three cases of drug induced liver injury were noted in ZYMFENTRA-treated subjects that led to study drug discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions ].
- In two subjects in UC Trial I, ALT and AST levels started rising 7 to 12 months after starting ZYMFENTRA, reaching peak values of 4 to 11x ULN for ALT, and 2 to 7x ULN for AST. Inboth subjects, total bilirubin levels remains below 2x ULN.
- In one subject in CD Trial I, ALT and AST started rising within a month after starting ZYMFENTRA, reaching peack values of 18x ULN for ALT and 14.9x ULN for AST. At approximately 5 months, total bilirubin level also increased to a peak value of 2.5x ULN.
Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of outside of the U.S with a non-U.S approved infliximab product administered subcutaneously. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
- Infections and infestations: cellulitis, disseminated tuberculosis, lower respiratory tract infection, pneumonia, sepsis
- Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified: breast cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer
- Nervous system disorders: multiple sclerosis
- General disorders and administration site conditions: fatigue, malaise
The following additional adverse ractions have been identified during post-approval use of infliximab products administered intravenously.
- Neutropenia, agranuloxytosis (including infants exposed in utero to infliximab products), idiopathis thrombocytopenic purpura, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
- Interstitial lung disease (including pulmonary fibrosis/interstitial pneumonitis and rapidly progessive disease).
- Pericardial effusion, systemic and cutaneous vasculitis.
- Erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), new onset and worsening psoriasis (all subtypes including pustular, primarily palmoplantar), lichenoid react.
- Preipheral demyelinating disorders (such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and multifocal motor neuropathy) transverse myelitis, and neuropathies (additional neurologic reactions have also been observed).
- Acute liver failure, jaundice, hepatitis, and cholestasis.
- Serious infections and vaccine breakthrough infection including bovine tuberculosis (disseminated BCG infection) following vaccination in an infant exposed in utero to infliximab products.
- Malignancies, including leukemia, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and cervical cancer.
- Anaphylactic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, laryngeal/pharyngeal edema and severe bronchospasm, and seizure.
- Transient visual loss has been reported in association with infliximab products during or within 2 hours of infusion. Cerebrovascular accidents, myocardial ischemia/infarction (some fatal), and arrhythmia occurring within 24 hours of initiation of infusion have also been reported.
Other Biological Products Used to Treat UC and CD
The concurrent use of ZYMFENTRA with other immunosuppressive biological products used to treat UC and CD may increase the risk of infection and is not recommended [seeWarnings and Precautions ].
Consier the half-life and mode of action of prior biologial products to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ZYMFENTRA [seeWarnings and Precautions ].
Cytochrome P450 Substrates
The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be suppressed by increased levels of cytokines (e.g., TNFα, IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, IFN) during chronic inflammation. Therefore, ZYMFENTRA, an antagonist of TNFα, could normalize the formation of CYP450 enzymes potentially resulting in a decrease in exposure of CYP450 substrates.
Upon initiation or discontinuation of TNF blockers, including ZYMFENTRA, in patients being treated with CYP450 substrates requiring therapeutic drug monitoring, monitor therpeutic parameters (e.g., INR for warfarin) or drug concentration (e.g., cyclosporine or theophylline). Dosage adjustment may be needed to maintain drug concentrations or parameters within the therapeutic range. See prescribing information for specific drugs.
Live Vaccines/Therapeutic Infectious Agents
It is recommended that live vaccines not be given concurrently with ZYMFENTRA. It is also recommended that live vaccines not be given to infants after in utero exposure to infliximab products for 6 months following birth [see Warnings and Precautions ].
It is recommended that therapeutic infectious agents not be given concurrently with ZYMFENTRA [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Infliximab-dyyb, a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker, is a chimeric IgG1κ monoclonal antibody (composed of human constant and murine variable regions). It has a molecular weight of approximately 145.9 kDa. Infliximab-dyyb is produced by a recombinant murine myeloma cell line, SP2/0.
ZYMFENTRA (inifliximab-dyyb) injection for subcutaneous use is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to opalescent, colorless to pale brown solution.
ZYMFENTRA is supplied in a single-dose prefilled syringe with 29 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle, prefilled syringe with 29 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle with needle guard, or prefilled pen with 27 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle.
Each mL of solution contains 120 mg infliximab-dyyb, acetic acid (0.19 mg), polysorbate 80 (0.5 mg), sodium acetate (0.56 mg), sorbitol (45 mg) and Water for Injection, USP. The pH is 5.0.
Mechanism of Action
Infliximab-dyyb neutralize the biological activity of TNFα by binding with high affinity to the soluble and transmembrane forms of TNFα and inhibit binding of TNFα with its receptors. Infliximab-dyyb has shown biological activities, such as TNFα neutralization activity and TNFα binding affinities, complement 1q (C1q) binding affinity and crystallizable fragment (Fc) receptor binding affinities in a wide variety of in vitro bioasays. The relationship of these biological response markers to the mechanism(s) by which infliximab-dyyb exerts its clinical effects is unknown.
Pharmacodynamics
No formal pharmacodynamic studies have been conducted.
Phamacokinetics
Following single and multiple subcutaneous dosing of infliximab-dyyb, exposures to infliximab-dyyb (i.e., AUC) are proportionally increased over the dose range from 120 mg to 240 mg (2 times the recommended dosage). After a single subcutaneous dose of infliximab-dyyb 120 mg in healthy subjects, the median (SD) Cmax and AUCinf were 10.0 (3.2) mcg/mL and 6945.6 (2830.2) mcg·h/mL, respectively. Following recommended subcutaneous maintenance dose of ZYMFENTRA (120 mg every 2 weeks) in adult subjects with UC and CD from Week 10 after intravenous induction treatment with infliximab-dyyb, steady-state was achieved by Week 22, and the mean (SD) trough serum concentrations of infliximab-dyyb at steady-state were 14.6 (7.8) mcg/mL and 14.6 (8.9) mcg/mL in subjects with UC and CD, respectively. Pharmacokinetics are comparable between healthy subjects, and subjects with UC or CD.
Absorption
In healthy subjects, the median time to reach the maximum serum concentration (Tmax) was 7 days after a single subcutaneous dose of infliximab-dyyb 120 mg. In healthy subjects, AUCinf following a single subcutaneous dosed of infliximab-dyyb 120 mg was approximately 23% relative to a single intravenous dose of infliximab-dyyb 5 mg/kg. Following infliximab-dyyb 120 mg subcuaneosly every 2 weeks, steady state AUC for 8-week internal was 25-35% higher compared to infliximab-dyyb 5 mg/kg administered intravenously every 8 weeks in subjects with UC and CD.
Distribution
Population pharmacokinetic analyses showed that the volume of distribution of infliximab-dyyb was 3.36L.
Elimination
In healthy subjects, the mean half-life was 332 hours after a single subcutaneous dose of infliximab-dyyb 120 mg.
Populatoin pharmacokinetic analyses showed that the clearance of infliximab-dyyb was 0.013 L/hr and the clearance was increased in the presence of anti-drug antibody.
The metabolic pathway of infliximab has not been characterized. As a IgG1κ monoclonal antibody, infliximab is expected to be degraded into small peptides and amino acids via catabolic pathways in the same manner as endogenous IgG.
Specific Populations
Weight
Population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that exposure to infliximab-dyyb was inversely related to body weight. However, the magnitude of body weight effect on systemic exposure was not clinically meaningful in adult subjects with UC and CD weighing from 39 to 130 kg.
Age, Sex and Race
Age (≥65 years ofld), sex, or race did not have a clinically meaningful effect on pharmacokinetics of infliximab-dyyb.
Drug Interaction Studies
Population pharmacokinetic analysis showed that co-administered methotrexate did not have clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of infliximab-dyyb.
Immunogenicity
The observed incidence of anti-drug antibodies is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Difference in assay methods preclude meaningful comparisons of the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in other studies, including those of infliximab-dyyb or of other infliximab products.
In UC and CD clinical studies (UC Trial I and CD Trial I), approximately 64% subjects developed anti-drug antibodies to infliximab-dyyb following induction treatment with infliximab-dyyb intravenously and maintenance treatment with ZYMFENTRA by Week 54 [183/287 (64%) in subjects with UC, and 151/232 (65%) in subjects with CD] [see Clinical Studies ]. Among subjects with anti-drug antibodies, 92% had neutralizing antibodies [161/183 (88%) subjects with UC, and 147/151 (97%) subjects with CD]. Use of concomitant immunosuppressant agents (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine and methotrexate) appeared to reduce the frequency of ADA to infliximab-dyyb.
Anti-Drug Antibody Effects on Pharmacokinetics
Subjects who were positive for anti-drug antibodies showed lower infliximab-dyyb trough seum concentrations of infliximab-dyyb by approximately 30 to 40% compared to subjects who were negative for anti-drug antibodies. In some subjects with high titers of anti-drug antibodies and positive neutralizing antibodies, trough seum concentrations of infliximab-dyyb were below the lower limit of quantitation (<0.1 mcg/mL). There was no identified clinically significant effect of anti-drug antibodies on the safety and effectiveness of ZYMFENTRA in Study UC I and Study CD I.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Long-term animal studies of infliximab-dyyb have not been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic potential or its effect on fertility.
Adult Ulcerative Colitis
The safety and efficacy of ZYMFENTRA were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (UC Trial I; NCT04205643) in adult subjects with moderately to severely active UC (defined as a modified Mayo score [mMS] between 5 to 9 with an endoscopic subscore [ES] of 2 or 3). The mMS is a 3-component Mayo score (0-9), which consists of following subscores (0 to 3 for each subscore): stool frequency (SFS), rectal bleeding (RBS), and findings on centrally read endoscopy score (ES). An ES of 2 was defined by marked erythema, lack of vascular pattern, any friability, and/or erosions, and a score of 3 was defined by spontaneous bleeding and ulceration.
Subjects had demonstrated an inadequate response or intolerance to treatment with corticosteroids alone or in combination with 6-mercaptopurine or azathioprine. Subjects were permitted to use stable doses of oral aminosalicylates, oral corticosteroids (prednisone ≤20 mg/day or equivalent, budesonide ≤9 mg/day), UC-related antibiotics, and/or immunomodulatory agents (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or methotrexate). Corticosteroid tapering was permitted after Week 10.
All subjects received three intravenous induction doses of 5 mg/kg of infliximab-dyyb at Weeks 0, 2 and 6. In order to be randomized to treatment in UC Trial I, subjects had to be in clinical response at Week 10. Clinical response was defined as a decrease from baseline in the mMS of at least 2 points and at least 30%, with an accompanying decrease in the RBS of at least 1 point or an aabsolute RBS of 0 or 1 point.
A total of 438 subjects were randomized at Week 10 in a double-blind fashion (2:1) to ZYMFENTRA 120 mg as a subcutaneous injection or placebo every two weeks.
At the time of randomization into the double-blind phase (Week 10), 92% were receiving aminosalicylates, 41% were receiving oral corticosteroids, and 22% were receiving immunomodulators including AZA, 6-MP or MTX.
A total of 10% of randomized subjects had prior exposure to biological poucts or JAK inhibitors.
Subjects in the boule-blind phase had a mean age of 39 years (range 18 to 75 years); 44% were female; and 98% identified as White, and 2% as American Indian or Alaska Native.
The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects in clinical remission at Week 54. Wecondary endpoints included the proportion of subjects achieving histologic-endoscopic mucosal improvement and corticosteroid-fee remission at Week 54 (see Table 3).
Table 3: Proportion of Subjects with Ulcerative Colitis Meeting Effficacy Endpoints at Week 54 in UC Trial I | ||||
Endpoint | ZYMFENTRA | Placebo | Treatment Differencea and 95% CI | |
Clinical Remissionb at Week 54 | ||||
| Total population | N=294 43% | N=144 21% | 21% (12, 29) | |
| No prior biological product/JAK inhibitor exposure | N=265 45% | N=131 21% | ||
| Prior biological product/JAK inhibitor exposure | N=29 31% | N=13 15% | ||
| Histologic-Endoscopic Mucosal Improvementd at Week 54 | ||||
Total population | N=294 36% | N=144 17% | 18% (9, 26) | |
| No prior biological product/JAK inhibitor exposure | N=265 36% | N=131 18% | ||
| Prior biological product/JAK inhibitor exposure | N=29 31% | N=13 8% | ||
| Corticosteroid-Fee Remissione at Week 54 | ||||
| Total population | N=120 37% | N=61 18% | 17%f (3, 29) | |
No prior biological product/JAK inhibitor | N=107 36% | N=56 18% | ||
| Prior biological product/JAK inhibitor exposure | N=13 39% | N=5 20% | ||
CI = confience interval, JAK = Janus kinase a Treatement difference (adjusted for stratification factors of previous exposure to biological product and/or JAK inhibitor, use of treatment with oral corticosteoids Week 0, and clinical remission status at Week 10.) b Clinical remissio is defined using the mMS as SFS of 0 or 1 point; RBS of 0 point; and ES of 0 or 1 point (excluding friability). c p < 0.0001 d Histologic-endoscopic mucosal improvement is defined as an absolute ES of 0 or 1 point (excluding friability) from mMS and an absoluted Robarts Histopathology Index (RHI) score of ≤3 poitns with no lamina propria neutrophils, no neutrophils in epithelium, no erosion or ulceration. e Corticosteroid-free remission is defined as being in clinical remission by mMS in addition to not requiring any treatment with corticosteroid for at least 8 weeks at Week 54, among the patients who used oral cotricosteroids at baseline. f p < 0.05 | ||||
The relationship between histologic-endoscopic mucosal improvement at Week 54 and diasease progression and longer-term outcomes after Week 54 was not evaluated in UC Trial I.
Adult Crohn's Disease
The safety and efficacy of ZYMFENTRA were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies (CD Trial I; NCT03945019) in adult subjects with moderately to severely active CD, defined as Crohn's Disease Activity Index (CDAI) score of 220 to 450 points, and a centrally-reveiwed Simplified Endoscopic Activity Score for Crohn’s Disease (SES-CD) of ≥6 points for ileal-colonic CD (or ≥4 points for isolated ileal disease).
Subjects had demonstrated an inadequate response or intolerance to treatment with corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressants. Subjects were permitted to use stable doses of oral amisosalicylates, oral corticosteroids (prednisone ≤20 mg/day or equivalent, budesonide ≤9 mg/day), CD-related antibiotics and/or immunomodulatory agents (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or methotrexate). Corticosteroid dose was tapered after Week 10.
All subjects received three intravenous induction doses of 5 mg/kg infliximab-dyyb at Week 0, 2 and 6. In order to be ranomized to treatment in CD Trial I, subjects had to be in clinical response at Week 10. Clinical response was defined as a decrease from baseline in CDAI of at least 100 points (i.e., CDAI-100 responders).
A total of 323 subjects were randomized at Week 10 in a double-blind fashion (2:1) to ZYMFENTRA 120 mg as a subcutaneous injection or placebo every 2 weeks.
At the time of randomization into thd double-blind phase (Week 10), 61% were receiving aminosalicylates, 40 % were receiving oral corticosteroids, and 32% were receiving immunomodulators including azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or methotrexate.
A total of 11% of randomized subjects had prior exposure to biological products.
Subjects in the double-blind phase had a mean age of 35 years (range 18 to 75 years); 40% were female; and 91% identified as White, 4% identified as American Indian or Alaska Native, 4% identified as Asian, 0.3% as Black or African American, and 1% identified as another racial group.
The co-primary endopoints were clinical remission (based on CDAI) and endoscopic response at Week 54. Secondary endpoints included endoscopic remission, and corticosteroid-free remission at Week 54 (see Table 4).
Table 4: Proportion of Subjects with Crohn's Disease Meeting Efficacy Endpoints at Week 54 in CD Trial I | |||
Endpoint | ZYMFENTRA | Placebo | Treatment Differencea and 95% CI |
Clinical Remission (Based on CDAI)bat Week 54 | |||
Total population | N=216 63% | N=107 30% | 35%c (24, 45) |
| No prior biological product expousre | N=191 62% | N=98 31% | |
| Prior biological product exposure | N=25 72% | N=9 22% | |
Endoscopic responsed at Week 54 | |||
| Total population | N=216 50% | N=107 87% | 34%c (23, 43) |
| No prior biological product exposure | N=191 51% | N=98 17% | |
| Prior biological product exposure | N=25 48% | N=9 22% | |
Enoscopic Remissione at Week 54 | |||
Total population | N=216 35% | N=107 10% | 25%c (16, 33) |
No prior biological product exposure | N=191 35% | N=98 10% | |
Prior biological product exposure | N=25 36% | N=9 11% | |
Corticosteroid-free Remissionf at Week 54 | |||
| Total population | N=92 40% | N=43 21% | 19%g |
| No prior biological product expousre | N=81 35% | N=40 23% | |
| Prior biological product exposure | N=11 82% | N=3 0% | |
CI=confidence internal, CDAI=Crohn's Disease Activity Index, JAK=Janus kinase a Treatment difference (adjusted for stratification factors of previous exposure to biological product, use of treatment with oral corticosteroids at Week 0, and clinical remission status at Week 10). b Clinical remission (based on CDAI) is defined as an absolute CDAI score of <150 points. c p < 0.0001. d Endoscopic response is defined as a >50% decrease in SES-CD from the baseline value. e Endoscopic remission is defined as an absolute SES-CD score of ≤4 with no sub-score of >1. f Corticosteroid-free remission is defined as being in clinical remission in additio to not receiving any corticosteroid for at least 8 weeks prior to Week 54, among the subjects who used oral corticosteroids at baseline. g p < 0.05 | |||
How Supplied
ZYMFENTRA (Infliximab-dyyb) injection for subcutaneous use is supplied as a sterile, preservative-free, clear to opalescent, colorless to pale brown solution in a single-use prefilled syringe, prefilled syringe with needle guard or prefilled pen. The syringe is fitted with a needle shield which are not made with natural rubber latex or any derivatives from natural rubber latex in any ingredient.
Prefilled Syringe
Each prefilled syringe is equipped with a 29 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle with a rigid needle shield and a plunger stopper. The following configurations are available:
- 1 prefilled syringe (120 mg/mL solution) with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-05)
- 2 prefilled syringes (120 mg/mL solution) with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-06)
- 4 prefilled syringes (120 mg/mL solution) with 4 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-07)
- 6 prefilled syringes (120 mg/mL solution) with 6 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-08)
Prefilled Syringe with Needle Guard
Each prefilled syringe is equipped with a 29 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle with a rigid needle shield and an automatic needle guard, and a plunger stopper. The following configurations are available:
- 1 prefilled syringe with needle guard (120 mg/mL solution) with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-09)
- 2 prefilled syringes with needle guard (120 mg/mL solution) with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-10)
- 4 prefilled syringes with needle guard (120 mg/mL solution) with 4 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-11)
- 6 prefilled syringes with needle guard (120 mg/mL solution) with 6 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-12)
Prefilled Pen
Each prefilled pen is equipped with a 27 gauge fixed 1/2 inch needle with a rigid needle shield and a plunger stopper. The following configurations are available:
- 1 prefilled pen (120 mg/mL solution) with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-01)
- 2 prefilled pens (120 mg/mL solution with 2 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-02)
- 4 prefilled pens (120 mg/mL solution) with 4 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-03)
- 6 prefilled pens (120 mg/mL solution) with 6 alcohol pads. (NDC: 72606-025-04)
Storage and Handling
Store in refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). DO NOT FREEZE. Keep the product in its outer carton until time of administration in order to protect from light.
If needed, the product may be stored at room temperature at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) for up to 14 days with protection from light. Once the product has been stored at room temperature, it should not be placed back into the refrigerator. The product must be discarded if not used within the 14 days.
Read and follow the Instructions for Use that come with your ZYMFENTRA Prefilled Syringe before you start using it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information dose not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Figure A: Parts of Prefilled Syringe
Caution! Do not remove the Cap until you are ready to inject. Once you remove the Cap, do not recap the Syringe.
Important Information
- Use the Prefilled Syringe only if your healthcare provider has trained you on the right way to prepare for and to give an injection.
- Ask your healthcare provider how often you will need to give an injection.
- Rotate the injection site each time you give an injection. Each new injection site should be at least 1.2 inches away from the previous injection site.
- Do not use Prefilled Syringe if it has been dropped or is visibly damaged.
- Do not reuse the Prefilled Syringe.
- Do not shake the Prefilled Syringe at any time.
- Do not share the Prefilled Syringe with anyone.
- Do not pull back on the plunger rod at any time.
- Only use each Prefilled Syringe for one injection.
How to store the Prefilled Syringe
- Store the Prefilled Syringe in a refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- Keep the Prefilled Syringe in the original carton until use to protect it from light.
- Do not use the Prefilled Syringe that has been left in direct sunlight.
- Do not freeze the Prefilled Syringe. If the Prefilled Pen has been frozen, do not use the Prefilled Syringe even if it is thawed.
- Do not warm the Prefilled Syringe using heat sources such as hot water or a microwave. Let the Prefilled Syringe naturally warm at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for 30 minutes before giving an injection.
- When the Prefilled Syringe has reached room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator. The Prefilled Syringe must be thrown away (discarded) if not used within the 14 days.
- Keep the Prefilled Syringe and all medicines out of the reach of children.
Prepare for the Injection
1. Gather the supplies for the injection.
1a. Prepare a clean, flat surface, such as a table or countertop, in a well-lit area.
1b. Remove 1 Prefilled Syringe from the carton by holding the middle of the Prefilled Syringe Body.
- Do not touch the plunger rod.
Note: Return the carton with any unused Prefilled Syringe to the refrigerator immediately after taking out one Prefilled Syringe.
1c. Make sure you have the following supplies:
- Prefilled Syringe
- Alcohol swab
Not included in the carton:
- Cotton ball or gauze
- Adhesive bandage
- FDA-cleared sharps disposal container
2. Inspect the Prefilled Syringe. 2a. Make sure you have the correct medicine (ZYMFENTRA). 2b. Check the expiration (EXP) date on the label of the Prefilled Syringe (See Figure B). 2c. Look at the Prefilled Syringe and make sure it is not cracked or damaged.
|
Figure B |
3. Inspect the Medicine. 3a. Look through the Viewing Window and check that the liquid is clear and colorless to pale brown, and free of particles (see Figure C).
|
Figure C |
4. Wait 30 minutes. 4a. Leave the Prefilled Syringe at room temperature 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for 30 minutes to allow it to warm up (see Figure D).
|
Figure D |
5. Choose an injection site (see Figure E). 5a. You may inject into: - the front of your thighs. - the stomach area (abdomen) except for the 2 inches around the belly button (navel). - the outer area of the upper arm (caregiver only).
5b. Rotate the injection site each time you give an injection.
|
Figure E |
6. Wash your hands. 6a. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly (see Figure F). |
Figure F |
7. Clean the injection site. 7a. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab (see Figure G).
|
Figure G |
Give the injection | |
8. Remove the Cap. 8a. Hold the Prefilled Syringe by the injector body with the Cap on top using one hand. Gently pull the Cap straight off with the other hand.
8b. Throw away (dispose of) the Cap in an FDA cleared sharps container (see Step 12 and Figure H). |
Figure H |
9. Insert the Prefilled Syringe into the injection site. 9a. Hold the Prefilled Syringe by its body in one hand between your thumb and index finger. 9b. Gently pinch a fold of skin at the injection site with one hand. 9c. Witha quick and “dart-like” motion, insert the Needle completely into the fold of the skin at a 45-defree angle (see Figure I). Ÿ Do not change the position of the Prefilled Syringe after the injection has started. |
Figure I |
10.Give the injection. 10a. After the Needle is inserted, release the pinched skin. 10b. Push the Plunger down slowly and as far as it will go until the Prefilled Syringe is empty (See Figure J). Note: The Needle Guard will not activate unless all the Medicines is injected. |
Figure J |
11. Remove the Prefilled Syringe from the injection site. 11a. After the Prefilled Syringe is empty, slowly lift your thumb from the Plunger until Needle is completely covered by the Neeld Guard (see Figure K).
|
Figure K |
After the injection | |
12. Throw away (dispose of) the Prefilled Syringe. 12a. Put the used Prefilled Syringe in an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container immediately after use (see Figure L).
- made of a heavy-duty plastic,
|
Figure L |
13. Care for the injection site. 13a. Treat the injection site by gently pressing a cotton ball or gauze to the site and apply an adhesive bandage, if necessary. | |
Manufactured by: CELLTRION, Inc., 23, Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 22014, Republic of Korea Distributed by: CELLTRION USA, Inc., 1 Evertrust Plaza Suite 1207, Jersey City, NJ 07302 | |
Mechanism of Action
Infliximab-dyyb neutralize the biological activity of TNFα by binding with high affinity to the soluble and transmembrane forms of TNFα and inhibit binding of TNFα with its receptors. Infliximab-dyyb has shown biological activities, such as TNFα neutralization activity and TNFα binding affinities, complement 1q (C1q) binding affinity and crystallizable fragment (Fc) receptor binding affinities in a wide variety of in vitro bioasays. The relationship of these biological response markers to the mechanism(s) by which infliximab-dyyb exerts its clinical effects is unknown.