Saturday, October 29, 2016

Aquadrate 10% w / w Cream





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Aquadrate 10% w/w Cream


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Aquadrate contains urea Ph Eur 10% w/w.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



A smooth, unperfumed, non greasy, off white cream for topical administration.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the treatment of ichthyosis and hyperkeratotic skin conditions associated with atopic eczema, xeroderma, iasteatosis and other chronic dry skin conditions.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Aquadrate is applied topically. Wash affected areas well, rinse off all traces of soap, dry, and apply sparingly twice daily. Occlusive dressings may be used but are usually unnecessary because of the self-occlusive nature of the cream.



4.3 Contraindications



Known hypersensitivity to the product.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Avoid application to moist or broken skin.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Aquadrate may increase the penetration through the skin barrier of other topically applied medicaments.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with Aquadrate. Aquadrate should only be used if the anticipated benefits outweigh the risks.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Aquadrate does not interfere with the ability to drive or use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



May produce local irritations (including erythema, burning or pruritus) and oedema when applied to sensitive, moist or fissured skin.



4.9 Overdose



Topical applications of excessive amounts of Aquadrate might cause skin irritation but no other effects would be expected. Ingestion of a large amount of Aquadrate would be expected to result in gastrointestinal irritation (nausea and vomiting). Symptomatic and supportive care should be given. Liberal oral administration of milk or water may be helpful.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Urea has a therapeutic effect in chronic dry skin conditions through its hydrating, keratolytic and anti-pruritic properties.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



There is no information available on the pharmacokinetics of urea.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



The cream also contains white soft paraffin, maize starch, isopropyl myristate, syncrowax HR-C, palmitic acid, sorbitan laurate and arlatone G.



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



Two years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 30°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Aquadrate is available in tubes of 30g and 100g.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



A patient leaflet is provided with details of use and handling of the product.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Alliance Pharmaceuticals Ltd



Avonbridge House



Bath Road



Chippenham



Wiltshire



SN15 2BB



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16853/0061



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



10 September 1991



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



5th December 2008





Friday, October 28, 2016

BeneFIX (Wyeth Pharmaceuticals)





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



BeneFIX 250 IU, BeneFIX 500 IU, BeneFIX 1000 IU, BeneFIX 2000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



BeneFIX 250 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection contains nominally 250 IU nonacog alfa (recombinant coagulation factor IX). After reconstitution with the accompanying 5 ml (0.234%) sodium chloride solution for injection, each ml of the solution contains approximately 50 IU nonacog alfa.



BeneFIX 500 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection contains nominally 500 IU nonacog alfa (recombinant coagulation factor IX). After reconstitution with the accompanying 5 ml (0.234%) sodium chloride solution for injection, each ml of the solution contains approximately 100 IU nonacog alfa



BeneFIX 1000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection contains nominally 1000 IU nonacog alfa (recombinant coagulation factor IX). After reconstitution with the accompanying 5 ml (0.234%) sodium chloride solution for injection, each ml of the solution contains approximately 200 IU nonacog alfa



BeneFIX 2000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection contains nominally 2000 IU nonacog alfa (recombinant coagulation factor IX). After reconstitution with the accompanying 5 ml (0.234%) sodium chloride solution for injection, each ml of the solution contains approximately 400 IU nonacog alfa.



The potency (IU) is determined using the European Pharmacopoeia one-stage clotting assay. The specific activity of BeneFIX is not less than 200 IU/mg protein.



BeneFIX contains recombinant coagulation factor IX, (INN = nonacog alfa). Nonacog alfa is a purified protein that has 415 amino acids in a single chain. It has a primary amino acid sequence that is comparable to the Ala148 allelic form of plasma-derived factor IX, and some post-translational modifications of the recombinant molecule are different from those of the plasma-derived molecule. Recombinant coagulation factor IX is a glycoprotein that is secreted by genetically engineered mammalian cells derived from a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line.



Excipients:



Each vial contains 40 mg sucrose.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



White/almost white powder and clear and colourless solvent for solution for injection.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Treatment and prophylaxis of bleeding in patients with haemophilia B (congenital factor IX deficiency).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Treatment should be initiated under the supervision of a physician experienced in the treatment of haemophilia.



Posology



The dosage and duration of the substitution therapy depends on the severity of the factor IX deficiency, the location and extent of bleeding, and the patient's clinical condition. Dosing of BeneFIX may differ from that of plasma-derived factor IX products.



To ensure that the desired factor IX activity level has been achieved, precise monitoring using the factor IX activity assay is advised and doses should be calculated taking the factor IX activity, pharmacokinetic parameters such as half-life and recovery, as well as the clinical situation into consideration in order to adjust the dose as appropriate.



The amount to be administered and the frequency of administration should always be oriented to the clinical effectiveness in the individual case. Factor IX products rarely require to be administered more than once daily.



The number of units of factor IX administered is expressed in International Units (IU), which are related to the current WHO standard for factor IX products. Factor IX activity in plasma is expressed either as a percentage (relative to normal human plasma) or in International Units (relative to an international standard for factor IX in plasma).



One International Unit (IU) of factor IX activity is equivalent to that quantity of factor IX in one ml of normal human plasma. Estimation of the required dose of BeneFIX can be based on the finding that one unit of factor IX activity per kg body weight is expected to increase the circulating level of factor IX, an average of 0.8 IU/dl (range from 0.4 to 1.4 IU/dl) in adult patients (



The required dosage is determined using the following formula:











Number of factor IX IU required




=




body weight (in kg)




X




desired factor IX increase (%) or (IU/dl)




X




reciprocal of observed recovery



For a recovery 0.8 IU/dl (average increase of factor IX), then:











Number of factor IX IU required




=




body weight (in kg)




X




desired factor IX increase (%) or (IU/dl)




X




1.3 IU/kg



In the case of the following haemorrhagic events, the factor IX activity should not fall below the given plasma activity levels (in % of normal or in IU/dl) in the corresponding period. The following table can be used to guide dosing in bleeding episodes and surgery:



















Degree of haemorrhage/Type of surgical procedure




Factor IX level required (%) or (IU/dl)




Frequency of doses (hours)/Duration of Therapy (days)




Haemorrhage



Early haemarthrosis, muscle bleeding or oral bleeding




 



20-40




 



Repeat every 24 hours. At least 1 day, until the bleeding episode as indicated by pain is resolved or healing is achieved.




More extensive haemarthrosis, muscle bleeding or haematoma




30-60




Repeat infusion every 24 hours for 3-4 days or more until pain and acute disability are resolved.




Life-threatening haemorrhages




60-100




Repeat infusion every 8 to 24 hours until threat is resolved.




Surgery



Minor:



Including tooth extraction



Major




 



30-60



 



80-100



(pre- and postoperative)




 



Every 24 hours, at least 1 day, until healing is achieved.



 



Repeat infusion every 8-24 hours until adequate wound healing, then therapy for at least another 7 days to maintain a factor IX activity of 30% to 60% (IU/dl)



During the course of treatment, appropriate determination of factor IX levels is advised to guide the dose to be administered and the frequency of repeated infusions. In the case of major surgical interventions in particular, precise monitoring of the substitution therapy by means of coagulation analysis (plasma factor IX activity) is indispensable. Individual patients may vary in their response to factor IX, achieving different levels of in vivo recovery and demonstrating different half-lives.



For long term prophylaxis against bleeding in patients with severe haemophilia B, BeneFIX may be administered. In a clinical study for routine secondary prophylaxis the average dose for previously treated patients (PTP) was 40 IU/kg (range 13 to 78 IU/kg) at intervals of 3 to 4 days. In younger patients, shorter dosage intervals or higher doses may be necessary.



Paediatric patients



There are insufficient data to recommend the use of BeneFIX in children less than 6 years of age. In clinical studies, 57% of the paediatric patients increased their doses due to lower than expected recovery or to obtain sufficient therapeutic response or both, some to an average dose of >50 IU/kg. Therefore, close monitoring of factor IX plasma activity should be performed, as well as calculation of pharmacokinetic parameters such as recovery and half-life, as clinically indicated, in order to adjust doses as appropriate. If doses >100 IU/kg have been repeatedly needed during routine prophylaxis or treatment, a switch to another FIX product should be considered.



Patients should be monitored for the development of factor IX inhibitors. If the expected factor IX activity plasma levels are not attained, or if bleeding is not controlled with an appropriate dose, biological testing should be performed to determine if a factor IX inhibitor is present.



In patients with high levels of inhibitor factor IX therapy may not be effective and other therapeutic options must be considered. Management of such patients should be directed by physicians with experience in the care of patients with haemophilia. See also section 4.4.



Method of administration



BeneFIX is administered by intravenous infusion after reconstitution of the lyophilised powder for solution for injection with sterile 0.234% sodium chloride solution (see section 6.6).



BeneFIX should be administered at a slow infusion rate. In most of the cases, an infusion rate of up to 4 ml per minute has been used. The rate of administration should be determined by the patient's comfort level.



Administration by continuous infusion has not been approved and is not recommended (see also sections 4.4, 4.8 and 6.6).



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.



Known allergic reaction to hamster proteins.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Activity-neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) are an uncommon event in previously treated patients (PTPs) receiving factor IX-containing products. Since during clinical studies one PTP treated with BeneFIX developed a clinically relevant low responding inhibitor and experience on antigenicity with recombinant factor IX is still limited, patients treated with BeneFIX should be carefully monitored for the development of factor IX inhibitors that should be titrated in Bethesda Units using appropriate biological testing.



Sufficient data have not been obtained from ongoing clinical studies on the treatment of previously untreated patients (PUPs), with BeneFIX. Additional safety and efficacy studies in paediatric patients are ongoing in previously treated, minimally treated, and previously untreated paediatric patients. Clinical studies of BeneFIX did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. As with any patient receiving BeneFIX, dose selection for an elderly patient should be individualised.



As with any intravenous protein product, allergic-type hypersensitivity reactions are possible. The product contains traces of hamster proteins. Potentially life-threatening anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions have occurred with factor IX products, including BeneFIX. Patients should be informed of early signs of hypersensitivity reactions including difficult breathing, shortness of breath, swelling, hives, itching, tightness of the chest, bronchospasm, laryngospasm, wheezing, hypotension, blurred vision, and anaphylaxis.



If allergic or anaphylactic-type reactions occur, the administration of BeneFIX has to be discontinued immediately and an appropriate treatment has to be initiated. In some cases, these reactions have progressed to severe anaphylaxis. In the case of shock, the current medical standards for treatment of shock should be observed. In case of severe allergic reactions, alternative haemostatic measures should be considered.



There have been reports in the literature showing a correlation between the occurrence of a factor IX inhibitor and allergic reactions. Therefore, patients experiencing allergic reactions should be evaluated for the presence of an inhibitor. It should be noted that patients with factor IX inhibitors may be at an increased risk of anaphylaxis with subsequent challenge with factor IX. Preliminary information suggests a relationship may exist between the presence of major deletion mutations in a patient's factor IX gene and an increased risk of inhibitor formation and of acute hypersensitivity reactions. Patients known to have major deletion mutations of the factor IX gene should be observed closely for signs and symptoms of acute hypersensitivity reactions, particularly during the early phases of initial exposure to product.



Because of the risk of allergic reactions with factor IX concentrates, the initial administrations of factor IX should, according to the treating physician's judgement, be performed under medical observation where proper medical care for allergic reactions could be provided.



Posology has to be adjusted according to the pharmacokinetics of each patient.



Although BeneFIX contains only factor IX, the risk of thrombosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) should be recognised. Since the use of factor IX complex concentrates has historically been associated with the development of thromboembolic complications, the use of factor IX-containing products may be potentially hazardous in patients with signs of fibrinolysis and in patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Because of the potential risk of thrombotic complications, clinical surveillance for early signs of thrombotic and consumptive coagulopathy should be initiated with appropriate biological testing when administering this product to patients with liver disease, to patients post-operatively, to neonates, or to patients at risk of thrombotic phenomena or DIC. In each of these situations, the benefit of treatment with BeneFIX should be weighed against the risk of these complications.



The safety and efficacy of BeneFIX administration by continuous infusion have not been established (see also sections 4.2 and 4.8). There have been post-marketing reports of thrombotic events, including life-threatening superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome in critically ill neonates, while receiving continuous-infusion BeneFIX through a central venous catheter (see also section 4.8).



There have been reports of agglutination of red blood cells in the tube/syringe with the administration of BeneFIX. So far, no clinical sequelae have been reported in association with this observation. To minimize the possibility of agglutination, it is important to limit the amount of blood entering the tubing. Blood should not enter the syringe. If agglutination of red blood cells in the tubing/syringe is observed, discard all this material (tubing, syringe and BeneFIX solution) and resume administration with a new package.



Nephrotic syndrome has been reported following attempted immune tolerance induction in haemophilia B patients with Factor IX inhibitors and a history of allergic reaction. The safety and efficacy of using BeneFIX for immune tolerance induction has not been established.



In the interest of patients, it is recommended that, whenever possible, every time that BeneFIX is administered to them, the name and batch number of the product is registered.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No interaction studies have been performed.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with factor IX. Based on the rare occurrence of haemophilia B in women, experience regarding the use of factor IX during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not available. Therefore, factor IX should be used during pregnancy and breast-feeding only if clearly indicated.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



To date, no adverse reactions reported in association with BeneFIX occurred with a frequency of



Adverse reactions based on experience from clinical trials and postmarketing experience are presented below by system organ class and frequency of occurrence. Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness. These frequencies have been estimated on a per-infusion basis and are described using the following categories: uncommon (

























Nervous system disorders
 

Uncommon:

Dizziness, headache, altered taste, lightheadedness

Gastrointestinal disorders
 

Uncommon:

Nausea

Rare:

Vomiting

General disorders and administration site conditions
 

Uncommon:

Cellulitis, phlebitis, injection site reaction (including burning infusion site and injection site stinging), injection site discomfort

Rare:

Pyrexia

Immune system disorders
 

Uncommon:

Neutralising antibodies (factor IX inhibition)*

Rare:

Hypersensitivity/allergic reactions; such reactions may include anaphylaxis*, bronchospasm/respiratory distress, (dyspnoea), hypotension, angioedema, tachycardia, chest tightness, urticaria, hives, rash, burning sensation in jaw and skull, chills (rigors), tingling, flushing, lethargy, restlessness, dry cough/sneezing, blurred vision


* See additional information below.



Hypersensitivity/allergic reactions



Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions have been infrequently observed in patients treated with factor IX containing products, including BeneFIX. In some cases, these reactions have progressed to severe anaphylaxis. Allergic reactions have occurred in close temporal association with development of factor IX inhibitor (see also section 4.4).



The aetiology of the allergic reactions to BeneFIX has not yet been elucidated. These reactions are potentially life-threatening. If allergic/anaphylactic reactions occur, the administration of BeneFIX should be discontinued at once. In case of severe allergic reactions, alternative haemostatic measures should be considered. The treatment required depends on the nature and severity of side-effects (see also section 4.4).



Due to the production process BeneFIX contains trace amounts of hamster cell proteins. Hypersensitivity responses can occur.



Inhibitor development



Patients with haemophilia B may develop neutralising antibodies (inhibitors) to factor IX. If such inhibitors occur, the condition may manifest itself as an insufficient clinical response. In such cases, it is recommended that a specialised haemophilia centre be contacted. A clinically relevant, low responding inhibitor was detected in 1 out of 65 BeneFIX patients (including 9 patients participating only in the surgery study) who had previously received plasma-derived products. This patient was able to continue treatment with BeneFIX with no anamnestic rise in inhibitor or anaphylaxis. There are insufficient data to provide information on inhibitor incidence in PUPs.



Nephrotic syndrome has been reported following high doses of plasma-derived Factor IX to induce immune tolerance in haemophilia B patients with factor IX inhibitors and a history of allergic reactions.



Renal



In a clinical trial, twelve days after a dose of BeneFIX for a bleeding episode, one hepatitis C antibody positive patient developed a renal infarct. The relationship of the infarct to prior administration of BeneFIX is uncertain. The patient continued to be treated with BeneFIX.



Thrombotic events



There have been post-marketing reports of thrombotic events, including life-threatening SVC syndrome in critically ill neonates, while receiving continuous-infusion BeneFIX through a central venous catheter. Cases of peripheral thrombophlebitis and deep venous thrombosis have also been reported; in most of these cases, BeneFIX was administered via continuous infusion, which is not an approved method of administration (see also sections 4.2 and 4.4).



Inadequate therapeutic response and inadequate factor IX recovery



Inadequate therapeutic response and inadequate factor IX recovery have been reported during the post-marketing use of BeneFIX (see also section 4.2).



If any adverse reaction takes place that is thought to be related to the administration of BeneFIX, the rate of infusion should be decreased or the infusion stopped.



4.9 Overdose



No case of overdose has been reported.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: antihaemorrhagic Blood Coagulation Factor IX; ATC code: B02BD09



BeneFIX contains recombinant coagulation factor IX, (nonacog alfa). Recombinant coagulation factor IX is a single chain glycoprotein with an approximate molecular mass of 55,000 Daltons that is a member of the serine protease family of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors. Recombinant coagulation factor IX is a recombinant DNA-based protein therapeutic which has structural and functional characteristics comparable to endogenous factor IX. Factor IX is activated by factor VII/tissue factor complex in the extrinsic pathway as well as factor XIa in the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Activated factor IX, in combination with activated factor VIII, activates factor X. This results ultimately in the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. Thrombin then converts fibrinogen into fibrin and a clot can be formed. Factor IX activity is absent or greatly reduced in patients with haemophilia B and substitution therapy may be required.



Haemophilia B is a sex-linked hereditary disorder of blood coagulation due to decreased levels of factor IX and results in profuse bleeding into joints, muscles or internal organs, either spontaneously or as a result of accidental or surgical trauma. By replacement therapy the plasma levels of factor IX is increased, thereby enabling a temporary correction of the factor deficiency and correction of the bleeding tendencies.



There are insufficient data to recommend the use of BeneFIX in children less than 6 years of age.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Infusion of BeneFIX into 56 PTP patients (baseline data) with haemophilia B has shown an in vivo recovery ranging from 15 to 62% (mean 33.7 ± 10.3%). One International Unit of BeneFIX showed a mean 0.75 IU/dl (range 0.3 to 1.4 IU/dl) increase in the circulating level of factor IX. The biologic half-life ranged from 11 to 36 hours (mean of 19.3 ± 5.0 hours).



For a subset of the 56 patients, data are available from baseline to 24 months. The pharmacokinetic data for these patients at various time points are shown in the following table:




















































































Table 1. Summary of BeneFIX Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Activity Data by Month in Previously Treated Patients


       


Parameter




Month




n




Mean




Median




SD




Range




95% CI




Recovery (%)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



50



47



47




33.7



31.8



31.3



30.7



31.0




31.5



31.0



30.5



28.9



30.6




10.31



9.04



8.75



9.24



8.80




15.3–62.2



15.3–56.7



16.2–53.1



12.6–62.1



16.2–59.4




30.9, 36.4



29.4, 34.3



28.8, 33.7



28.0, 33.5



28.4, 33.6




FIX increase



(IU/dl per IU/kg)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



50



47



47




0.75



0.71



0.70



0.68



0.69




0.70



0.69



0.68



0.64



0.68




0.23



0.20



0.19



0.21



0.20




0.34–1.38



0.34–1.26



0.36–1.18



0.28–1.38



0.36–1.32




0.69, 0.81



0.65, 0.76



0.64, 0.75



0.62, 0.74



0.63, 0.75




Elimination



half-life (h)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



49



46



45




19.3



19.8



18.5



18.9



18.9




19.1



18.2



16.6



16.3



17.3




4.97



6.26



5.89



7.02



6.84




11.1–36.4



9.6–38.2



10.6–33.7



10.7–38.3



10.9–42.2




18.0, 20.7



18.1, 21.6



16.8, 20.2



16.8, 21.0



16.8, 20.9




AUC0- (IU × h/dl)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



49



46



45




619.8



579.8



575.7



561.8



577.6




605.2



562.2



566.0



560.9



551.7




155.7



146.1



151.0



155.6



154.7




366.5–1072.6



330.9–900.1



290.3–1080.8



254.5–940.8



284.1–1045.4




578.1, 661.5



539.5, 620.1



532.4, 619.1



515.7, 608.0



531.1, 624.1




Half-life



Initial Phase (h)




0



6



12



18



24




54



52



48



44



43




2.0



2.3



2.2



2.0



1.8




1.5



1.0



1.2



1.3



0.78




1.60



2.62



2.70



1.94



2.07




0.07–5.73



0.12–9.98



0.13–14.34



0.13–6.21



0.11–7.43




1.6,2.5



1.5,3.0



1.5,3.0



1.4,2.6



1.1,2.4




Clearance



(ml/h/kg)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



49



46



45




8.4



9.2



9.3



9.6



9.2




8.2



8.9



8.8



8.9



9.1




2.01



2.48



2.53



2.85



2.40




4.66–13.64



5.55–15.11



4.63–17.22



5.31–19.65



4.78–17.60




7.86,8.94



8.53,9.89



8.56,10.01



8.78,10.47



8.52,9.96




MRT (h)




0



6



12



18



24




56



53



49



46



45




26.0



25.6



24.6



24.7



25.1




25.8



25.3



22.2



22.7



23.9




6.07



5.68



6.47



7.40



6.94




15.81–46.09



13.44–42.26



14.83–38.75



15.30–50.75



15.65–47.52




24.35,27.60



24.01,27.15



22.75,26.47



22.55,26.94



23.00,27.17




Data exclude those collected from one patient after evidence of inhibitor development was observed at 9 months.


       


AUC0 - = Area Under the Curve



MRT = Mean Residence Time



SD = Standard Deviation



CI = Confidence Interval



A 28% lower recovery of BeneFIX in comparison to plasma-derived Factor IX was shown. Pharmacokinetic parameters of BeneFIX have also been determined after single and multiple intravenous doses in different species. The pharmacokinetic parameters obtained in studies comparing BeneFIX to plasma-derived Factor IX were similar to those obtained in human studies. Structural differences of BeneFIX compared with plasma-derived Factor IX appear to contribute to the different recovery compared to plasma-derived Factor IX.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Non-clinical data reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of genotoxicity.



No investigations on carcinogenicity, fertility impairment and foetal development have been conducted.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Powder



Sucrose



Glycine



L-Histidine



Polysorbate 80



Solvent



Sodium chloride solution



6.2 Incompatibilities



In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products. Only the provided infusion set should be used. Treatment failure can occur as a consequence of human coagulation factor IX adsorption to the internal surfaces of some infusion equipment.



6.3 Shelf Life



2 years



The reconstituted product should be used immediately, but no longer than 3 hours after reconstitution. Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for 3 hours at temperatures up to 25oC.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store and transport at 2°C - 30°C. Do not freeze, in order to prevent damage to the prefilled syringe.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



BeneFIX 250 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: 250 IU of powder in a 10 ml vial (type 1 glass) with a stopper (chlorobutyl) and a flip-off seal (aluminium) and 5 ml of solvent in a prefilled syringe (type 1 glass) with a plunger stopper (bromobutyl), a tip-cap (bromobutyl) and a sterile vial adapter reconstitution device, a sterile infusion set, two alcohol swabs, a plaster, and a gauze pad.



BeneFIX 500 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: 500 IU of powder in a 10 ml vial (type 1 glass) with a stopper (chlorobutyl) and a flip-off seal (aluminium) and 5 ml of solvent in a prefilled syringe (type 1 glass) with a plunger stopper (bromobutyl), a tip-cap (bromobutyl) and a sterile vial adapter reconstitution device, a sterile infusion set, two alcohol swabs, a plaster, and a gauze pad.



BeneFIX 1000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: 1000 IU of powder in a 10 ml vial (type 1 glass) with a stopper (chlorobutyl) and a flip-off seal (aluminium) and 5 ml of solvent in a prefilled syringe (type 1 glass) with a plunger stopper (bromobutyl), a tip-cap (bromobutyl) and a sterile vial adapter reconstitution device, a sterile infusion set, two alcohol swabs, a plaster, and a gauze pad.



BeneFIX 2000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: 2000 IU of powder in a 10 ml vial (type 1 glass) with a stopper (chlorobutyl) and a flip-off seal (aluminium) and 5 ml of solvent in a prefilled syringe (type 1 glass) with a plunger stopper (bromobutyl), a tip-cap (bromobutyl) and a sterile vial adapter reconstitution device, a sterile infusion set, two alcohol swabs, a plaster, and a gauze pad.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



BeneFIX is administered by intravenous (IV) injection after reconstitution of the lyophilised powder for injection with the supplied solvent (0.234% w/v sodium chloride solution) in the pre-filled syringe.



BeneFIX, when reconstituted, contains polysorbate-80, which is known to increase the rate of di-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) extraction from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This should be considered during the preparation and administration of BeneFIX. It is important that the recommendations in section 4.2 be followed closely.



Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.



The product does not contain a preservative, and the reconstituted solution should be used immediately or within 3 hours after reconstitution.



Because the use of BeneFIX by continuous infusion has not been evaluated, BeneFIX should not be mixed with infusion solutions or be given in a drip.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Pfizer Limited



Ramsgate Road



Sandwich



Kent CT13 9NJ



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



BeneFIX 250 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: EU/1/97/047/004



BeneFIX 500 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: EU/1/97/047/005



BeneFIX 1000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: EU/1/97/047/006



BeneFIX 2000 IU powder and solvent for solution for injection: EU/1/97/047/007



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



Date of first authorisation: 27 August 1997



Date of last renewal: 27 August 2007



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



23 June 2011



Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) http://www.emea.europa.eu.



Ref: BF 2_0





Nuelin SA 250 mg Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Nuelin SA 250 mg Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Theophylline 250mg



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Prolonged release tablet



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Nuelin SA are indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of reversible bronchospasm associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.



Because effective plasma levels are maintained for up to twelve hours from a single dose, less frequent dosing is required than with conventional theophylline preparations.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



ADULTS: One tablet twice daily, preferably after food, increasing to two tablets twice daily, if necessary.



CHILDREN: 6 TO 12 YEARS: One tablet twice daily, preferably after food.



ELDERLY: Elderly patients may require lower doses due to reduced theophylline clearance.



Nuelin SA-250 are not recommended for children under six years.



Nuelin SA-250 tablets are scored and may be halved but should not be crushed or chewed.



The dosage should be titrated for each individual and adjusted with caution. Serum theophylline levels should be monitored to ensure that they remain within the therapeutic range.



4.3 Contraindications



Porphyria



Hypersensitivity to any constituent or to xanthines.



Concomitant use with ephedrine in children.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



The patients response to therapy should be carefully monitored. Worsening of asthma symptoms requires urgent medical attention.



Use with caution in patients with cardiac arrhythmias, peptic ulcer, hyperthyroidism, severe hypertension, acute porphyria, hepatic dysfunction, chronic alcoholism, acute febrile illness and chronic lung disease.



Smoking and alcohol consumption may increase theophylline clearance and increased doses of theophylline are therefore required. In patients with cardiac failure, hepatic dysfunction/disease and fever the reverse is true and these patients may require a reduced dosage.



Alternative bronchodilator therapy should be used in patients with a history of seizures.



It is not recommended that the product be used concurrently with other preparations containing xanthine derivatives.



WARNINGS: Xanthines can potentiate hypokalaemia resulting from beta-2-agonist therapy steroids, diuretics and hypoxia. Particular caution is advised in severe asthma. It is recommended that serum potassium levels are monitored in such situations.



PRECAUTIONS: In the case of an acute asthmatic attack in a patient receiving a sustained action theophylline preparation, great caution should be taken when administering intravenous aminophylline. Half the recommended loading dose of aminophylline (generally 6 mg/kg) should be given, i.e. 3 mg/kg, cautiously.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Cimetidine, allopurinol, corticosteroids, frusemide, isoprenaline, oral contraceptives, thiobendazole, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics and the calcium channel blockers, diltiazem and verapamil, nizatidine, norfloxacin, isoniazid, fluconazole, carbimazole, mexiletine, propafenone, oxpentifylline, disulfiram, viloxazine, interferon alfa, and influenza vaccine increase plasma theophylline concentrations. A reduction of the theophylline dosage is recommended.



Phenytoin, carbamazepine, barbiturates, rifampicin, sulphinpyrazone, ritonavir, primidone and aminoglutethimide may reduce plasma theophylline concentrations and therefore the theophylline dosage may need to be increased.



Theophylline can increase lithium excretion.



The concomitant use of theophylline and fluvoxamine should usually be avoided. Where this is not possible, patients should have their theophylline dose halved and plasma theophylline should be monitored closely.



Warnings about the concurrent use of xanthines and xanthine derivatives are shown in Section 4, Special Warnings.



Plasma concentrations of theophylline can be reduced by concomitant use of the herbal remedy St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum).



Other interactions:



β-Blockers: antagonism of bronchodilation.



Ketamine: reduced convulsive threshold.



Doxapram: increased CNS stimulation.



Also see Warnings.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Administration of theophylline drugs during pregnancy should only be considered if there is no safe alternative and the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks.



Theophylline is excreted in breast milk and should not therefore be routinely administered to nursing mothers.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



No effect.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The side-effects commonly associated with xanthine derivatives such as nausea, gastric irritation, palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmias, convulsions, headache, CNS stimulation and insomnia are much diminished when a sustained action preparation such as Nuelin SA is used. These side-effects are mild and infrequent when the plasma concentration is maintained at less than 20 microgrammes/ml.



4.9 Overdose



Over 3 g could be serious in an adult (40 mg/kg in a child). The fatal dose may be as little as 4.5 g in an adult (60 mg/kg in a child), but is generally higher.



SYMPTOMS



Warning: Serious features may develop as long as 12 hours after overdosage with sustained release formulations.



Alimentary features:



Nausea, vomiting (which is often severe). epigastric pain and haematernesis. Consider pancreatitis if abdominal pain persists.



Neurological features:



Restlessness, hypertonia. exaggerated limb reflexes and convulsions.



Coma may develop in very severe cases.



Cardiovascular features:



Sinus tachycardia is common. Ectopic beats and supraventricular and ventricular tachycardia may follow.



Metabolic features:



Hypokalaemia due to shift of potassium from plasma into cells is common, can develop rapidly and may be severe. Hyperglycaemia. hypomagnesaemia and metabolic acidosis may also occur. Rhabdomyolysis may also occur.



MANAGEMENT



Activated charcoal or gastric lavage should be considered if a significant overdose has been ingested within 1-2 hours. Repeated doses of activated charcoal given by mouth can enhance theophylline elimination. Measure the plasma potassium concentration urgently, repeat frequently and correct hypokalaemia. BEWARE! If large amounts of potassium have been given, serious hyperkalaemia may develop during recovery. If plasma potassium is low then the plasma magnesium concentration should be measured as soon as possible.



In the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, proconvulsant antiarrhythmic agents such as lignocaine (lidocaine) should be avoided because of the risk of causing or exacerbating seizures.



Measure the plasma theophylline concentration regularly when severe poisoning is suspected, until concentrations are falling. Vomiting should be treated with an antiemetic such as metoclopramide or ondansetron.



Tachycardia with an adequate cardiac output is best left untreated. Beta-blockers may be given in extreme cases but not if the patient is asthmatic.



Control isolated convulsions with intravenous diazepam. Exclude hypokalaemia as a cause.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Theophylline directly relaxes smooth muscle thus acting mainly as a bronchodilator and vasodilator. The drug also possesses other action typical of the xanthines derivatives - coronary vasodilator, diuretic, cardiac stimulant, cerebral stimulant and skeletal muscle stimulant.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



It has been established that the xanthines, which include theophylline, are readily absorbed after oral, rectal or parenteral administration and this is well documented in published literature.



Theophylline is excreted in the urine as metabolites, mainly 1,3-dimethyluric acid and 3-methylxanthine, and about 10% is excreted unchanged.



Plasma half-lives ranging from 3 to 9 hours and therapeutic plasma concentrations from about 5 to 20 μg per ml have been reported.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Not applicable.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Lactose Ph Eur



Cellulose Acetate Phthalate Ph Eur



Magnesium Stearate Ph Eur



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known



6.3 Shelf Life



3 Years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 30°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Bottle or Blister packs of 60



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Meda Pharmaceuticals Ltd



249 West George Street



Glasgow



G2 4RB



Trading as:



Meda Pharmaceuticals Ltd



Skyway House



Parsonage Road



Takeley



Bishop's Stortford



CM22 6PU



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 15142/0114



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



22 January 1980/21 August 2004



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



2nd February 2010





Thursday, October 27, 2016

Hedex Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Hedex or Paracetamol Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains Paracetamol Ph Eur 500.0 mg



3. Pharmaceutical Form



White capsule-shaped tablet.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Hedex is a mild analgesic and antipyretic. The tablets are recommended for headaches, including migraine and tension headaches, backache, rheumatic and muscle pain, period pains, nerve pains, toothache and for relieving the fever, aches and pains of colds and flu.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults (including the elderly)



2 tablets up to 4 times a day.



Children



6-12 years: ½ - 1 tablet three or four times daily as required. Not suitable for children under 6. Children should not be given Hedex tablets for more than 3 days without consulting a doctor.



These doses should not be repeated more frequently than every 4 hours and not more than 4 doses should be given in any 24 hour period.



Hedex is for oral administration.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any of the other constituents.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Care is advised in the administration of paracetamol to patients with renal or hepatic impairment. The hazard of overdose is greater in those with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease.



Do not exceed the stated dose.



Patients should be advised to consult their doctor if their headaches become persistent.



Patients should be advised not to take other paracetamol-containing products concurrently.



If symptoms persist consult your doctor.



Keep out of the reach and sight of children.



Pack Label:



Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose, even if you feel well.



Do not take with any other paracetamol-containing products.



Patient Information Leaflet:



Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose, even if you feel well, because of the risk of delayed, serious liver damage.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



The speed of absorption of paracetamol may be increased by metoclopramide or domperidone and absorption reduced by colestyramine. The anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarins may be enhanced by prolonged regular daily use of paracetamol with increased risk of bleeding; occasional doses have no significant effect.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Epidemiological studies in human pregnancy have shown no ill effects due to paracetamol used in the recommended dosage, but patients should follow the advice of their doctor regarding its use. Paracetamol is excreted in breast milk but not in a clinically significant amount. Available published data do not contraindicate breast feeding.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



None.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Adverse events of paracetamol from historical clinical trial data are both infrequent and from small patient exposure. Accordingly, events reported from extensive post-marketing experience at therapeutic/labelled dose and considered attributable are tabulated below by system class. Due to limited clinical trial data, the frequency of these adverse events is not known (cannot be estimated from available data), but post-marketing experience indicates that adverse reactions to paracetamol are rare and serious reactions are very rare.



Post marketing data














Body System




Undesirable effect




Blood and lymphatic system disorders



 




Thrombocytopenia



Agranulocytosis



 




Immune system disorders



 




Anaphylaxis



Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions including skin rashes, angiodema and Stevens Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis



 




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders



 




Bronchospasm*




Hepatobiliary disorders



 




Hepatic dysfunction



* There have been cases of bronchospasm with paracetamol, but these are more likely in asthmatics sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs.



4.9 Overdose



Liver damage is possible in adults who have taken 10g or more of paracetamol. Ingestion of 5g or more of paracetamol may lead to liver damage if the patient has risk factors (see below).



Risk factors



If the patient



a, Is on long term treatment with carbamazepine, phenobarbitone, phenytoin, primidone, rifampicin, St John's Wort or other drugs that induce liver enzymes.



Or



b, Regularly consumes ethanol in excess of recommended amounts.



Or



c, Is likely to be glutathione deplete e.g. eating disorders, cystic fibrosis, HIV infection, starvation, cachexia.



Symptoms



Symptoms of paracetamol overdosage in the first 24 hours are pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Liver damage may become apparent 12 to 48 hours after ingestion. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism and metabolic acidosis may occur. In severe poisoning, hepatic failure may progress to encephalopathy, haemorrhage, hypoglycaemia, cerebral oedema, and death. Acute renal failure with acute tubular necrosis, strongly suggested by loin pain, haematuria and proteinuria, may develop even in the absence of severe liver damage. Cardiac arrhythmias and pancreatitis have been reported.



Management



Immediate treatment is essential in the management of paracetamol overdose. Despite a lack of significant early symptoms, patients should be referred to hospital urgently for immediate medical attention. Symptoms may be limited to nausea or vomiting and may not reflect the severity of overdose or the risk of organ damage. Management should be in accordance with established treatment guidelines, see BNF overdose section.



Treatment with activated charcoal should be considered if the overdose has been taken within 1 hour. Plasma paracetamol concentration should be measured at 4 hours or later after ingestion (earlier concentrations are unreliable). Treatment with N-acetylcysteine may be used up to 24 hours after ingestion of paracetamol, however, the maximum protective effect is obtained up to 8 hours post-ingestion. The effectiveness of the antidote declines sharply after this time. If required the patient should be given intravenous N-acetylcysteine, in line with the established dosage schedule. If vomiting is not a problem, oral methionine may be a suitable alternative for remote areas, outside hospital. Management of patients who present with serious hepatic dysfunction beyond 24h from ingestion should be discussed with the NPIS or a liver unit.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Paracetamol is a well established analgesic.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Paracetamol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract.



Concentration in plasma reaches a peak in 30 - 60 minutes



Plasma half-life is 1 - 4 hours.



Paracetamol is relatively uniformly distributed throughout most body fluids.



Plasma protein binding is variable.



Excretion is almost exclusively renal, in the form of conjugated metabolites.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



There are no pre-clinical data of relevance to the prescriber which are additional to that already included in other sections of the SPC.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Maize starch, potassium sorbate, purified talc, stearic acid, polyvidone, soluble starch, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, triacetin, propylene glycol, shellac, brilliant blue FCF (E 133), sodium lactate and dimethylpolysiloxane (SAG 770).



6.2 Incompatibilities



None.



6.3 Shelf Life



48 months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



None.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Opaque PVC 250 µm/aluminium foil 30 µm blister strips packed into cardboard cartons containing 8, 12, 16, 24, 30, or 32 tablets; or opaque PVC 250µm/aluminium foil 30µm blisters in a round, wallet style pack containing 12 tablets.



Clear PVC 250 µm /30 µm aluminium foil blister strips packed into cardboard cartons containing 8, 12, 16, 24, 30, or 32 tablets.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



SmithKline Beecham (SWG) Limited



980 Great West Road



Brentford



Middlesex



TW8 9GS



United Kingdom



Trading as: GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Brentford, TW8 9GS, U.K.



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00071/5010R



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



21.07.81



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



01.04.10





Boots NicAssist 15 mg Patch





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Nicorette 15mg Patch or Boots NicAssist 15 mg Patch


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Nicotine, 15mg released over 16 hours use. Each patch is 30 sq.cm, containing nicotine 0.83mg/sq.cm.



For excipients see section 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Transdermal Patch



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Nicorette Patch is indicated for the relief of nicotine withdrawal symptoms as an aid to smoking cessation in adults and children over 12 years of age. It is also indicated in pregnant and lactating women (see section 4.6).



If possible, Nicorette Patch should be used in conjunction with a behavioural support programme.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



The patient should make every effort to stop smoking completely during treatment with Nicorette Patch.



Behavioural therapy, advice and support will normally improve the success rate.



Nicorette Patch should be applied to clean, dry intact areas of hairless skin, for example on the hip, upper arm, or chest. These areas should be varied each day and the same site should not be used on consecutive days.



There is no clinically significant difference in bioavailability of nicotine when the patch is applied to either the hip, upper arm or chest.



Adults (over 18 years of age)



The daily dose is one patch delivering 15mg, 10mg or 5mg nicotine as appropriate, with application limited to 16 hours in a 24 hour period in each case.



Daily treatment commences with one 15mg (30cm2) patch, applied on waking (usually in the morning) and removed 16 hours later (usually at bedtime).



After removal, used patches should be disposed of carefully (see warnings).



Treatment should continue at this dose for an initial period of 8 weeks. Patients who have successfully abstained from smoking during this 8 week period should be supported through a further 4 week weaning period, using the lower strength patches. Downward titration of dose is achieved by applying one 10mg (20cm2) patch daily for 2 weeks followed by one 5mg (10cm2) patch daily for a further 2 weeks.



Adults who use NRT beyond 9 months are recommended to seek additional help and advice from a healthcare professional.



Adolescents (12 to 18 years)



The dose and method of use are as for adults however as data are limited in this age group, the recommended treatment duration is 12 weeks. If longer treatment is required, advice from a healthcare professional should be sought.



4.3 Contraindications



Nicorette Patches should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to nicotine or any component of the patch.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Any risks that may be associated with NRT are substantially outweighed by the well established dangers of continued smoking.



Underlying cardiovascular disease: In stable cardiovascular disease Nicorette Patch presents a lesser hazard than continuing to smoke. However dependent smokers currently hospitalised as a result of myocardial infarction, severe dysrhythmia or CVA and who are considered to be haemodynamically unstable should be encouraged to stop smoking with non-pharmacological interventions. If this fails, Nicorette Patch may be considered, but as data on safety in this patient group are limited, initiation should only be under medical supervision.



Diabetes mellitus: Patients with diabetes mellitus should be advised to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely than usual when NRT is initiated as catecholamines released by nicotine can affect carbohydrate metabolism.



Renal or hepatic impairment: Nicorette Patch should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment and/or severe renal impairment as the clearance of nicotine or its metabolites may be decreased with the potential for increased adverse effects.



Danger in small children: Doses of nicotine tolerated by adult and adolescent smokers can produce severe toxicity in small children that may be fatal. Products containing nicotine should not be left where they may be misused, handled or ingested by children. After removal, the patch should be folded in half, adhesive side innermost, and placed inside the opened sachet, or in a piece of aluminium foil. The used patch should then be disposed of carefully, away from the reach of children or animals.



Phaeochromocytoma and uncontrolled hyperthyroidism: As nicotine causes release of catecholamines, Nicorette Patch should be used with caution in patients with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or phaeochromocytoma.



Transferred dependence: Transferred dependence is rare and is both less harmful and easier to break than smoking dependence.



Stopping smoking: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in tobacco smoke induce the metabolism of drugs metabolised by CYP 1A2 (and possibly by CYP 1A1). When a smoker stops smoking, this may result in slower metabolism and a consequent rise in blood levels of such drugs. This is of potential clinical importance for products with a narrow therapeutic window, e.g. theophylline, clozapine and ropinirole.



Generalised dermatological disorders :Patients with chronic generalised dermatological disorders such as psoriasis, chronic dermatitis or urticaria should not use Nicorette Patch.



Erythema may occur. If it is severe or persistent, treatment should be discontinued.



Minor skin reactions are seen at the patch application site in a proportion of patients when commencing treatment (see also section 4.8). If skin reactions become more severe or more generalized, patients should be advised to discontinue use of patches and seek further medical help regarding nicotine replacement therapy.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No clinically relevant interactions between nicotine replacement therapy and other drugs has definitely been established. However nicotine may possibly enhance the haemodynamic effects of adenosine i.e. increase in blood pressure and heart rate and also increase pain response (angina-pectoris type chest pain) provoked by adenosine administration.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



NRT is not contraindicated in pregnancy. The decision to use NRT should be made on a risk-benefit assessment as early on in the pregnancy as possible with the aim of discontinuing use as soon as possible.



Smoking during pregnancy is associated with risks such as intra-uterine growth retardation, premature birth or stillbirth. Stopping smoking is the single most effective intervention for improving the health of both pregnant smoker and her baby. The earlier abstinence is achieved the better.



Ideally smoking cessation during pregnancy should be achieved without NRT. However for women unable to quit on their own, NRT may be recommended to assist a quit attempt.



Nicotine passes to the fetus affecting breathing movements and has a dose-dependent effect on placental/fetal circulation. However the risk of using NRT to the fetus is lower than that expected with tobacco smoking, due to lower maximal plasma nicotine concentration and no additional exposure to polycyclic hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.



Intermittent dosing products may be preferable as these usually provide a lower daily dose of nicotine than patches. However, patches may be preferred if the women is suffering from nausea during pregnancy. If patches are used they should be removed before going to bed.



Lactation



NRT is not contraindicated in lactation. Nicotine from smoking and NRT is found in breast milk. However the amount of nicotine the infant is exposed to is relatively small and less hazardous than the second-hand smoke they would otherwise be exposed to.



Using intermittent dose NRT preparations, compared with patches, may minimize the amount of nicotine in the breast milk as the time between administrations of NRT and feeding can be more easily prolonged.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Some symptoms may be related to nicotine withdrawal associated with stopping smoking. These can include; irritability/aggression, dysphoria/depressed mood, anxiety, restlessness, poor concentration, increased appetite/weight gain, urges to smoke (cravings), night-time awakenings/sleep disturbance and decreased heart rate.



Increased frequency of aphthous ulcer may occur after abstinence from smoking. The causality is unclear.



Nicorette Patch may cause adverse reactions similar to those associated with nicotine given by other means, including smoking, and these are mainly dose-dependent. At recommended doses Nicorette Patch has not been found to cause any serious adverse effects. Excessive use of Nicorette Patch by those who have not been in the habit of inhaling tobacco smoke could possibly lead to nausea, faintness or headaches.



About 20% of Nicorette patch users experience mild local skin reactions, during the first weeks of treatment. In some patients the skin reactions may become more severe eg skin blistering or a burning sensation or may be more generalized (see section 4.4).



Reported adverse events associated with Nicorette 5mg, 10mg and 15mg patch include:




























Body System




Incidence*




Reported adverse event




Nervous system disorders:




Common:




Dizziness, headache




Cardiac disorders:




Uncommon:




Palpitations



 


Very rare:




Reversible atrial fibrillation




Gastrointestinal disorders:




Common:




Gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:




Uncommon:




Urticaria




General disorders and administration site disorders:




Very common:




Itching



 


Common:




Erythema



*Very common (>1/10); common (>1/100, <1/10); uncommon (>1/1 000, <1/100); rare (>1/10 000, <1/1 000); very rare (<1/10 000), including isolated reports.



4.9 Overdose



Symptoms: The minimum lethal dose of nicotine in a non-tolerant man has been estimated to be 40 to 60mg. Symptoms of acute nicotine poisoning include nausea, salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, sweating headache, dizziness, disturbed hearing and marked weakness. In extreme cases, these symptoms may be followed by hypotension, rapid or weak or irregular pulse, breathing difficulties, prostration, circulatory collapse and terminal convulsions.



Management of an overdose: All nicotine intake should stop immediately and the patient should be treated symptomatically. Artificial respiration should be instituted if necessary. Activated charcoal reduces the gastro-intestinal absorption of nicotine.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Nicotine has no therapeutic uses except as replacement therapy for the relief of abstinence symptoms in nicotine-dependent smokers.



Owing to its many actions, the overall effects of nicotine are complex. A wide variety of stimulant and depressant effects are observed that involve the central and peripheral nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastro-intestinal and skeletal motor systems. Nicotine acts on specific binding sites or receptors throughout the nervous system.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Taking into account the residual concentration of nicotine in the transdermal system, the nicotine released from the system is efficiently absorbed: a bioavailability of between 80-100% has been reported. There is no clinically significant difference in bioavailability of nicotine when the patch is applied to either the hip, upper arm or chest.



Steady state concentrations of plasma nicotine in volunteers were examined during a study period of six days. Although nicotine was detectable 24 hours after the first dose, the data did not indicate any accumulation.



Tmax of nicotine after application of a 30cm2 nicotine transdermal system has been shown to vary between 6 ± 2 and 9 ± 3 hours: Cmax has been shown to vary between 13 ± 3 and 16 ± 5 ng/ml. No differences in these pharmacokinetic parameters have been observed between males and females.



All Nicorette Patches are labelled by the average amount of nicotine absorbed by the patient over 16 hours.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Preclinical data indicate that nicotine is neither mutagenic nor genotoxic.



There are no other findings derived from preclinical testing of relevance to the prescriber in determining the safety of the product which have not been considered in other relevant sections of this Summary of Product Characteristics.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Medium molecular weight polyisobutylene



Low molecular weight polyisobutylene



Polybutylene



Polyester non-woven backing film



Siliconised polyester release liner



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



36 months



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store at above 30°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Heat sealed multilaminate pouch containing one patch. Cartons of 1, 2, 3, 7*, 14* and 28 pouches (*pack presently marketed).



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Cut open the pouch with scissors along the line, as indicated. A clean, dry intact area of skin is selected which is hairless, such as the hip, upper arm or chest. The transparent plastic backing is peeled away and the patch pressed carefully onto the skin. The fingers should be rubbed firmly round the edge to ensure that the patch sticks properly. The patch will normally resist bathing, showering, or swimming, but if it does come off it should be replaced with a new one. Use of skin oils or talc can prevent proper adhesion of the patch.



It is intended that the patch is worn through the waking hours (approximately 16 hours) being applied on waking and removed at bedtime. Nicotine residues in the used patches may present a hazard to children and pets, thus used patches should be folded, sticky sides together, put back in an empty pouch and placed in household rubbish.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



McNeil Products Limited



Foundation Park



Roxborough Way



Maidenhead



Berkshire



SL6 3UG



UK



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 15513/0177



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



22 January 2008



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



20 April 2010