POMALYST Capsule Ref.[10916] Active ingredients: Pomalidomide

Source: FDA, National Drug Code (US)  Revision Year: 2020 

4. Contraindications

4.1 Pregnancy

POMALYST is contraindicated in females who are pregnant. POMALYST can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Pomalidomide is a thalidomide analogue and is teratogenic in both rats and rabbits when administered during the period of organogenesis. If the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to a fetus.

4.2 Hypersensitivity

POMALYST is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated severe hypersensitivity (e.g., angioedema, anaphylaxis) to pomalidomide or any of the excipients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), Description (11)].

5. Warnings and Precautions

5.1 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

POMALYST is a thalidomide analogue and is contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Thalidomide is a known human teratogen that causes severe birth defects or embryo-fetal death [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. POMALYST is only available through the POMALYST REMS program [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Females of Reproductive Potential

Females of reproductive potential must avoid pregnancy for at least 4 weeks before beginning POMALYST therapy, during therapy, during dose interruptions and for at least 4 weeks after completing therapy.

Females must commit either to abstain continuously from heterosexual sexual intercourse or to use 2 methods of reliable birth control, beginning 4 weeks prior to initiating treatment with POMALYST, during therapy, during dose interruptions, and continuing for 4 weeks following discontinuation of POMALYST therapy.

Two negative pregnancy tests must be obtained prior to initiating therapy. The first test should be performed within 10-14 days and the second test within 24 hours prior to prescribing POMALYST therapy and then weekly during the first month, then monthly thereafter in females with regular menstrual cycles, or every 2 weeks in females with irregular menstrual cycles [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Males

Pomalidomide is present in the semen of patients receiving the drug. Therefore, males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking POMALYST and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing POMALYST, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking POMALYST must not donate sperm [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Blood Donation

Patients must not donate blood during treatment with POMALYST and for 4 weeks following discontinuation of the drug because the blood might be given to a pregnant female patient whose fetus must not be exposed to POMALYST.

5.2 POMALYST REMS Program

Because of the embryo-fetal risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)], POMALYST is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS), the "POMALYST REMS" program.

Required components of the POMALYST REMS program include the following:

  • Prescribers must be certified with the POMALYST REMS program by enrolling and complying with the REMS requirements.
  • Patients must sign a Patient-Physician Agreement Form and comply with the REMS requirements. In particular, female patients of reproductive potential who are not pregnant must comply with the pregnancy testing and contraception requirements [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] and males must comply with contraception requirements [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
  • Pharmacies must be certified with the POMALYST REMS program, must only dispense to patients who are authorized to receive POMALYST and comply with REMS requirements.

Further information about the POMALYST REMS program is available at www.celgeneriskmanagement.com or by telephone at 1-888-423-5436.

5.3 Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolic events (deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and arterial thromboembolic events (myocardial infarction and stroke) have been observed in patients treated with POMALYST. In Trial 2, where anticoagulant therapies were mandated, thromboembolic events occurred in 8.0% of patients treated with POMALYST and low dose-dexamethasone (Low-dose Dex), and 3.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone. Venous thromboembolic events (VTE) occurred in 4.7% of patients treated with POMALYST and Low-dose Dex, and 1.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone. Arterial thromboembolic events include terms for arterial thromboembolic events, ischemic cerebrovascular conditions, and ischemic heart disease. Arterial thromboembolic events occurred in 3.0% of patients treated with POMALYST and Low-dose Dex, and 1.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone.

Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk, and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended, and the choice of regimen should be based on assessment of the patient’s underlying risk factors.

5.4 Increased Mortality in Patients with Multiple Myeloma When Pembrolizumab Is Added to a Thalidomide Analogue and Dexamethasone

In two randomized clinical trials in patients with MM, the addition of pembrolizumab to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone, a use for which no PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody is indicated, resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of patients with MM with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in combination with a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials.

5.5 Hematologic Toxicity

Multiple Myeloma

In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received POMALYST + Low-dose Dex, neutropenia was the most frequently reported Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction, followed by anemia and thrombocytopenia. Neutropenia of any grade was reported in 51% of patients in both trials. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was 46%. The rate of febrile neutropenia was 8%.

Monitor patients for hematologic toxicities, especially neutropenia. Monitor complete blood counts weekly for the first 8 weeks and monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Kaposi Sarcoma

In Trial 12-C-0047, hematologic toxicities were the most common (all grades and Grade 3 or 4) adverse reactions [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Fifty percent of patients had Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for hematologic toxicities, especially decreased neutrophils. Monitor complete blood counts every 2 weeks for the first 12 weeks and monthly thereafter. Withhold, reduce the dose, or permanently discontinue POMALYST based on the severity of the reaction [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

5.6 Hepatotoxicity

Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has occurred in patients treated with POMALYST. Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin have also been observed in patients treated with POMALYST. Monitor liver function tests monthly. Stop POMALYST upon elevation of liver enzymes and evaluate. After return to baseline values, treatment at a lower dose may be considered.

5.7 Severe Cutaneous Reactions

Severe cutaneous reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been reported. DRESS may present with a cutaneous reaction (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis), eosinophilia, fever, and/or lymphadenopathy with systemic complications such as hepatitis, nephritis, pneumonitis, myocarditis, and/or pericarditis. These reactions can be fatal. Consider POMALYST interruption or discontinuation for Grade 2 or 3 skin rash. Permanently discontinue POMALYST for Grade 4 rash, exfoliative or bullous rash, or for other severe cutaneous reactions such as SJS, TEN or DRESS [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

5.8 Dizziness and Confusional State

In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received POMALYST + Low-dose Dex, 14% of patients experienced dizziness and 7% of patients experienced a confusional state; 1% of patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 dizziness, and 3% of patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 confusional state. Instruct patients to avoid situations where dizziness or confusional state may be a problem and not to take other medications that may cause dizziness or confusional state without adequate medical advice.

5.9 Neuropathy

In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received POMALYST + Low-dose Dex, 18% of patients experienced neuropathy, with approximately 12% of the patients experiencing peripheral neuropathy. Two percent of patients experienced Grade 3 neuropathy in trial 2. There were no cases of Grade 4 neuropathy adverse reactions reported in either trial.

5.10 Risk of Second Primary Malignancies

Cases of acute myelogenous leukemia have been reported in patients receiving POMALYST as an investigational therapy outside of MM.

5.11 Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) may occur in patients treated with POMALYST. Patients at risk for TLS are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. These patients should be monitored closely and appropriate precautions taken.

5.12 Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and anaphylactic reactions to POMALYST have been reported. Permanently discontinue POMALYST for angioedema or anaphylaxis [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

6. Adverse Reactions

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described in detail in other labeling sections:

  • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2)]
  • Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
  • Increased Mortality in Patients with Multiple Myeloma When Pembrolizumab Is Added to a Thalidomide Analogue and Dexamethasone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
  • Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
  • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
  • Severe Cutaneous Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
  • Dizziness and Confusional State [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]
  • Neuropathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
  • Risk of Second Primary Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)]
  • Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]

6.1. Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

Multiple Myeloma (MM)

In Trial 1, data were evaluated from 219 patients (safety population) who received treatment with POMALYST + Low-dose Dex (112 patients) or POMALYST alone (107 patients). Median number of treatment cycles was 5. Sixty-seven percent of patients in the study had a dose interruption of either drug due to adverse reactions. Forty-two percent of patients in the study had a dose reduction of either drug due to adverse reactions. The discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions was 11%.

In Trial 2, data were evaluated from 450 patients (safety population) who received treatment with POMALYST + Low-dose Dex (300 patients) or High-dose Dexamethasone (High-dose Dex) (150 patients). The median number of treatment cycles for the POMALYST + Low-dose Dex arm was 5. In the POMALYST + Low-dose Dex arm, 67% of patients had a dose interruption of POMALYST, the median time to the first dose interruption of POMALYST was 4.1 weeks. Twenty-seven percent of patients had a dose reduction of POMALYST, the median time to the first dose reduction of POMALYST was 4.5 weeks. Eight percent of patients discontinued POMALYST due to adverse reactions.

Tables 3 and 4 summarize the adverse reactions reported in Trials 1 and 2, respectively.

Table 3. Adverse Reactions in Any POMALYST Treatment Arm in Trial 1*:

 All Adverse Reactions ≥10% in Either Arm Grade 3 or 4 ≥5% in Either Arm
Body System
Adverse Reaction
POMALYST
(N=107)
POMALYST + Low-dose Dex
(N=112)
POMALYST
(N=107)
POMALYST + Low-dose Dex
(N=112)
Number (%) of patients with at least one adverse reaction 107 (100) 112 (100) 98 (92) 102 (91)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Neutropenia 57 (53) 55 (49) 51 (48) 46 (41)
Anemia 41 (38) 47 (42) 25 (23) 24 (21)
Thrombocytopenia 28 (26) 26 (23) 24 (22) 21 (19)
Leukopenia 14 (13) 22 (20) 7 (7) 11 (10)
Febrile neutropenia <10% <10% 6 (6) 3 (3)
Lymphopenia 4 (4) 17 (15) 2 (2) 8 (7)
General disorders and administration site conditions
Fatigue and asthenia 62 (58) 70 (63) 13 (12) 19 (17)
Edema peripheral 27 (25) 19 (17) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Pyrexia 25 (23) 36 (32) <5% <5%
Chills 11 (10) 14 (13) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Gastrointestinal disorders
Nausea 39 (36) 27 (24) <5% <5%
Constipation 38 (36) 41 (37) <5% <5%
Diarrhea 37 (35) 40 (36) <5% <5%
Vomiting 15 (14) 16 (14) <5% 0 (0.0)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Back pain 37 (35) 36 (32) 15 (14) 11 (10)
Musculoskeletal chest pain 25 (23) 22 (20) <5% 0 (0.0)
Muscle spasms 23 (21) 22 (20) <5% <5%
Arthralgia 18 (17) 17 (15) <5% <5%
Muscular weakness 15 (14) 15 (13) 6 (6) 4 (4)
Bone pain 13 (12) 8 (7) <5% <5%
Musculoskeletal pain 13 (12) 19 (17) <5% <5%
Pain in extremity 8 (7) 16 (14) 0 (0.0) <5%
Infections and infestations
Upper respiratory tract infection 40 (37) 32 (29) <5% <5%
Pneumonia30 (28) 38 (34) 21 (20) 32 (29)
Urinary tract infection 11 (10) 19 (17) 2 (2) 10 (9)
Sepsis <10% <10% 6 (6) 5 (4)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders
Decreased appetite 25 (23) 21 (19) <5% 0 (0.0)
Hypercalcemia 23 (21) 13 (12) 11 (10) 1 (<1)
Hypokalemia 13 (12) 13 (12) <5% <5%
Hyperglycemia 12 (11) 17 (15) <5% <5%
Hyponatremia 12 (11) 14 (13) <5% <5%
Dehydration <10% <10% 5 (4.7) 6 (5.4)
Hypocalcemia 6 (6) 13 (12) 0 (0.0) <5%
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Dyspnea 38 (36) 50 (45) 8 (7) 14 (13)
Cough 18 (17) 25 (22) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Epistaxis 18 (17) 12 (11) <5% 0 (0.0)
Productive cough 10 (9) 14 (13) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Oropharyngeal pain 6 (6) 12 (11) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Nervous system disorders
Dizziness 24 (22) 20 (18) <5% <5%
Peripheral neuropathy 23 (21) 20 (18) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Headache 16 (15) 15 (13) 0 (0.0) <5%
Tremor 11 (10) 15 (13) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Rash 22 (21) 18 (16) 0 (0.0) <5%
Pruritus 16 (15) 10 (9) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Dry skin 10 (9) 12 (11) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Hyperhidrosis 8 (7) 18 (16) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Night sweats 5 (5) 14 (13) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Investigations
Blood creatinine increased 20 (19) 11 (10) 6 (6) 3 (3)
Weight decreased 16 (15) 10 (9) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Weight increased 1 (<1) 12 (11) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Psychiatric disorders
Anxiety 14 (13) 8 (7) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Confusional state 13 (12) 15 (13) 6 (6) 3 (3)
Insomnia 7 (7) 18 (16) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Renal and urinary disorders
Renal failure 16 (15) 11 (10) 9 (8) 8 (7)

Data cutoff: 01 March 2013
* Regardless of attribution of relatedness to POMALYST.
POMALYST alone arm includes all patients randomized to the POMALYST alone arm who took study drug; 61 of the 107 patients had dexamethasone added during the treatment period.
Serious adverse reactions were reported in at least 2 patients in any POMALYST treatment arm.

Table 4. Adverse Reactions in Trial 2:

 All Adverse Reactions
(≥5% in POMALYST + Low-dose Dex arm, and at least 2% higher than the High-dose-Dex arm)
Grade 3 or 4
(≥1% in POMALYST + Low-dose Dex arm, and at least 1% higher than the High-dose-Dex arm)
Body System
Adverse Reaction
POMALYST + Low-dose Dex
(N=300)
High-dose Dex
(N=150)
POMALYST + Low-dose Dex
(N=300)
High-dose Dex
(N=150)
Number (%) of patients with at least one adverse reaction 297 (99) 149 (99) 259 (86) 127 (85)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Neutropenia* 154 (51) 31 (21) 145 (48) 24 (16)
Thrombocytopenia 89 (30) 44 (29) 66 (22) 39 (26)
Leukopenia 38 (13) 8 (5) 27 (9) 5 (3)
Febrile neutropenia* 28 (9) 0 (0.0) 28 (9) 0 (0.0)
General disorders and administration site conditions
Fatigue and asthenia 140 (47) 64 (43) 26 (9) 18 (12)
Pyrexia* 80 (27) 35 (23) 9 (3) 7 (5)
Edema peripheral 52 (17) 17 (11) 4 (1) 3 (2)
Pain 11 (4) 3 (2) 5 (2) 1 (<1)
Infections and infestations
Upper respiratory tract infection* 93 (31) 19 (13) 9 (3) 1 (<1)
Pneumonia* 58 (19) 20 (13) 47 (16) 15 (10)
Neutropenic sepsis* 3 (1) 0 (0.0) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Gastrointestinal disorders
Diarrhea 66 (22) 28 (19) 3 (1) 2 (1)
Constipation 65 (22) 22 (15) 7 (2) 0 (0.0)
Nausea 45 (15) 17 (11) 3 (1) 2 (1)
Vomiting 23 (8) 6 (4) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Back pain* 59 (20) 24 (16) 15 (5) 6 (4)
Bone pain* 54 (18) 21 (14) 22 (7) 7 (5)
Muscle spasms 46 (15) 11 (7) 1 (<1) 1 (<1)
Arthralgia 26 (9) 7 (5) 2 (<1) 1 (<1)
Pain in extremity 20 (7) 9 (6) 6 (2) 0 (0.0)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Dyspnea* 76 (25) 25 (17) 17 (6) 7 (5)
Cough 60 (20) 15 (10) 2 (<1) 1 (<1)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease* 5 (2) 0 (0.0) 4 (1) 0 (0.0)
Nervous system disorders
Peripheral neuropathy 52 (17) 18 (12) 5 (2) 2 (1)
Dizziness 37 (12) 14 (9) 4 (1) 2 (1)
Headache 23 (8) 8 (5) 1 (<1) 0 (0.0)
Tremor 17 (6) 2 (1) 2 (<1) 0 (0.0)
Depressed level of consciousness 5 (2) 0 (0.0) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders
Decreased appetite 38 (13) 12 (8) 3 (1) 2 (1)
Hypokalemia 28 (9) 12 (8) 12 (4) 4 (3)
Hypocalcemia 12 (4) 9 (6) 5 (2) 1 (<1)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Rash 23 (8) 2 (1) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Pruritus 22 (7) 5 (3) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Hyperhidrosis 15 (5) 1 (<1) 0 (0.0) 0 (0.0)
Investigations
Neutrophil count decreased 15 (5) 1 (<1) 14 (5) 1 (<1)
Platelet count decreased 10 (3) 3 (2) 8 (3) 2 (1)
White blood cell count decreased 8 (3) 1 (<1) ?ootnoteRef? 8 (3) 0 (0.0)
Alanine aminotransferase increased 7 (2) 2 (1) 5 (2) 0 (0.0)
Aspartate aminotransferase increased 4 (1) 2 (1) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Lymphocyte count decreased 3 (1) 1 (<1) 3 (1) 0 (0.0)
Renal and urinary disorders
Renal failure 31 (10) 18 (12) 19 (6) 8 (5)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications
Femur fracture* 5 (2) 1 (<1) 5 (2) 1 (<1)
Reproductive system and breast disorders
Pelvic pain 6 (2) 3 (2) 4 (1) 0 (0.0)

Data cutoff: 01 March 2013
* Serious adverse reactions were reported in at least 3 patients in the POM + Low-dose Dex arm, AND at least 1% higher than the High-dose-Dex arm percentage.
Percentage did not meet the criteria to be considered as an adverse reaction for POMALYST for that category of event (i.e., all adverse events or Grade 3 or 4 adverse events).

Other Adverse Reactions

Other adverse reactions of POMALYST in patients with MM, not described above, and considered important:

Cardiac Disorders: Myocardial infarction, Atrial fibrillation, Angina pectoris, Cardiac failure congestive

Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: Vertigo

Gastrointestinal disorders: Abdominal pain

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: General physical health deterioration, Non-cardiac chest pain, Multi-organ failure

Hepatobiliary Disorders: Hyperbilirubinemia

Infections and Infestations: Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, Respiratory syncytial virus infection, Neutropenic sepsis, Bacteremia, Pneumonia respiratory syncytial viral, Cellulitis, Urosepsis, Septic shock, Clostridium difficile colitis, Pneumonia streptococcal, Lobar pneumonia, Viral infection, Lung infection

Investigations: Alanine aminotransferase increased, Hemoglobin decreased

Injury, poisoning and procedural complications: Fall, Compression fracture, Spinal compression fracture

Metabolism and nutritional disorders: Hyperkalemia, Failure to thrive

Nervous system disorders: Depressed level of consciousness, Syncope

Psychiatric disorders: Mental status change

Renal and urinary disorders: Urinary retention, Hyponatremia

Reproductive system and breast disorders: Pelvic pain

Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Interstitial lung disease, Pulmonary embolism, Respiratory failure, Bronchospasm

Vascular disorders: Hypotension

Kaposi Sarcoma (KS)

The safety of POMALYST in patients with KS was evaluated in Trial 12-C-0047 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Twenty-eight patients received POMALYST 5 mg taken orally once daily on Days 1 through 21 of repeated 28-day cycles. The study excluded patients with procoagulant disorders or a history of venous or arterial thromboembolism. Patients received DVT prophylaxis with daily low dose aspirin. Across all patients treated on Trial 12-C-0047, 75% were exposed to pomalidomide for 6 months or longer and 25% were exposed for greater than one year.

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 18% (5/28) of patients who received POMALYST. The following serious adverse reactions each occurred in 1 patient: anemia, decreased neutrophil count, and hematuria.

Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 11% (3/28) of patients who received POMALYST.

Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 14% (4/28) of patients who received POMALYST. The most frequent adverse reaction requiring dosage interruption was decreased neutrophil count, which occurred in 3 patients.

The POMALYST dose was reduced due to an adverse reaction in 1 patient due to gout.

Tables 5 and 6 summarize the adverse reactions and select laboratory abnormalities reported in Trial 12-C-0047.

Table 5. Adverse Reactions (≥20%) in Patients Who Received POMALYST in Trial 12-C-0047:

Adverse Reaction Grades 1-4
N=28
%
Grade 3 or 4
N=28
%
Rash, maculo-papular 71 3.6
Constipation 71 0
Fatigue 68 0
Nausea 36 0
Diarrhea 32 3.6
Cough 29 0
Dyspnea 29 0
Peripheral Edema 29 3.6
Upper respiratory tract infection 29 0
Muscle spasms 25 0
Hypothyroidism 21 0
Dry skin 21 0
Chills 21 0

Table 6. Frequency of Select Laboratory Abnormalities (≥10%) Worsening from Baseline in Patients Who Received POMALYST in Trial 12-C-0047:

Laboratory Abnormality Grades 1-4*
%
Grades 3-4*
%
Hematology
Decreased Absolute Neutrophil Count 96 50
Decreased White Blood Cells 79 3.6
Decreased Hemoglobin 54 0
Decreased Platelets 54 0
Chemistry
Elevated Creatinine 86 3.6
Elevated Glucose 57 7
Decreased Albumin 54 0
Decreased Phosphate 54 25
Decreased Calcium 50 0
Increased Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) 32 0
Increased Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 25 0
Elevated Creatine Kinase 25 7
Decreased Magnesium 14 0
Elevated Alkaline Phosphate 14 3.6

* Denominator is the number of patients for whom there is a baseline and at least one post baseline assessment for the laboratory parameter.

6.2. Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of POMALYST. 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.

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Pancytopenia

Endocrine Disorders: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Gastrointestinal hemorrhage

Hepatobiliary Disorders: Hepatic failure (including fatal cases), elevated liver enzymes

Immune system Disorders: Allergic reactions (e.g., angioedema, anaphylaxis, urticaria), solid organ transplant rejection

Infections and Infestations: Hepatitis B virus reactivation, Herpes zoster, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (incl cysts and polyps): Tumor lysis syndrome, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)

7. Drug Interactions

7.1 Drugs That Affect Pomalidomide Plasma Concentrations

CYP1A2 inhibitors

In healthy subjects, co-administration of fluvoxamine, a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor, increased Cmax and AUC of pomalidomide by 24% and 125% respectively [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Increased pomalidomide exposure may increase the risk of exposure related toxicities. Avoid co-administration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g. ciprofloxacin and fluvoxamine). If co-administration is unavoidable, reduce the POMALYST dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

8.1. Pregnancy

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in females exposed to POMALYST during pregnancy as well as female partners of male patients who are exposed to POMALYST. This registry is also used to understand the root cause for the pregnancy. Report any suspected fetal exposure to POMALYST to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to Celgene Corporation at 1-888-423-5436.

Risk Summary

Based on the mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)] and findings from animal studies, POMALYST can cause embryo-fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female and is contraindicated during pregnancy [see Contraindications (4), and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

POMALYST is a thalidomide analogue. Thalidomide is a human teratogen, inducing a high frequency of severe and life-threatening birth defects such as amelia (absence of limbs), phocomelia (short limbs), hypoplasticity of the bones, absence of bones, external ear abnormalities (including anotia, micropinna, small or absent external auditory canals), facial palsy, eye abnormalities (anophthalmos, microphthalmos), and congenital heart defects. Alimentary tract, urinary tract, and genital malformations have also been documented, and mortality at or shortly after birth has been reported in about 40% of infants.

Pomalidomide was teratogenic in both rats and rabbits when administered during the period of organogenesis. Pomalidomide crossed the placenta after administration to pregnant rabbits (see Data). If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to a fetus.

If pregnancy does occur during treatment, immediately discontinue the drug. Under these conditions, refer patient to an obstetrician/gynecologist experienced in reproductive toxicity for further evaluation and counseling. Report any suspected fetal exposure to POMALYST to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to Celgene Corporation at 1-888-423-5436.

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. The estimated background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2%-4% and of miscarriage is 15%-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.

Data

Animal Data

Pomalidomide was teratogenic in both rats and rabbits in the embryo-fetal developmental studies when administered during the period of organogenesis.

In rats, pomalidomide was administered orally to pregnant animals at doses of 25 to 1000 mg/kg/day. Malformations or absence of urinary bladder, absence of thyroid gland, and fusion and misalignment of lumbar and thoracic vertebral elements (vertebral, central, and/or neural arches) were observed at all dose levels. There was no maternal toxicity observed in this study. The lowest dose in rats resulted in an exposure (AUC) approximately 85-fold of the human exposure at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day. Other embryo-fetal toxicities included increased resorptions leading to decreased number of viable fetuses.

In rabbits, pomalidomide was administered orally to pregnant animals at doses of 10 to 250 mg/kg/day. Increased cardiac malformations such as interventricular septal defect were seen at all doses with significant increases at 250 mg/kg/day. Additional malformations observed at 250 mg/kg/day included anomalies in limbs (flexed and/or rotated fore- and/or hindlimbs, unattached or absent digit) and associated skeletal malformations (not ossified metacarpal, misaligned phalanx and metacarpal, absent digit, not ossified phalanx, and short not ossified or bent tibia), moderate dilation of the lateral ventricle in the brain, abnormal placement of the right subclavian artery, absent intermediate lobe in the lungs, low-set kidney, altered liver morphology, incompletely or not ossified pelvis, an increased average for supernumerary thoracic ribs, and a reduced average for ossified tarsals. No maternal toxicity was observed at the low dose (10 mg/kg/day) that resulted in cardiac anomalies in fetuses; this dose resulted in an exposure (AUC) approximately equal to that reported in humans at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day. Additional embryo-fetal toxicity included increased resorption.

Following daily oral administration of pomalidomide from Gestation Day 7 through Gestation Day 20 in pregnant rabbits, fetal plasma pomalidomide concentrations were approximately 50% of the maternal Cmax at all dosages (5 to 250 mg/kg/day), indicating that pomalidomide crossed the placenta.

8.2. Lactation

Risk Summary

There is no information regarding the presence of pomalidomide in human milk, the effects of POMALYST on the breastfed child, or the effects of POMALYST on milk production. Pomalidomide was excreted in the milk of lactating rats (see Data). Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse reactions in a breastfed child from POMALYST, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with POMALYST.

Data

Animal Data

Following a single oral administration of pomalidomide to lactating rats approximately 14 days postpartum, pomalidomide was transferred into milk, with milk to plasma ratios of 0.63 to 1.46.

8.3. Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

Pregnancy Testing

POMALYST can cause fetal harm when administered during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating POMALYST therapy and during therapy. Advise females of reproductive potential that they must avoid pregnancy 4 weeks before therapy, while taking POMALYST, during dose interruptions and for at least 4 weeks after completing therapy.

Females of reproductive potential must have 2 negative pregnancy tests before initiating POMALYST. The first test should be performed within 10-14 days, and the second test within 24 hours prior to prescribing POMALYST. Once treatment has started and during dose interruptions, pregnancy testing for females of reproductive potential should occur weekly during the first 4 weeks of use, then pregnancy testing should be repeated every 4 weeks in females with regular menstrual cycles. If menstrual cycles are irregular, the pregnancy testing should occur every 2 weeks. Pregnancy testing and counseling should be performed if a patient misses her period or if there is any abnormality in her menstrual bleeding. POMALYST treatment must be discontinued during this evaluation.

Contraception

Females

Females of reproductive potential must commit either to abstain continuously from heterosexual sexual intercourse or to use 2 methods of reliable birth control simultaneously: one highly effective form of contraception – tubal ligation, IUD, hormonal (birth control pills, injections, hormonal patches, vaginal rings, or implants), or partner’s vasectomy, and 1 additional effective contraceptive method – male latex or synthetic condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap. Contraception must begin 4 weeks prior to initiating treatment with POMALYST, during therapy, during dose interruptions, and continuing for 4 weeks following discontinuation of POMALYST therapy. Reliable contraception is indicated even where there has been a history of infertility, unless due to hysterectomy. Females of reproductive potential should be referred to a qualified provider of contraceptive methods, if needed.

Males

Pomalidomide is present in the semen of males who take POMALYST. Therefore, males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking POMALYST and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing POMALYST, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking POMALYST must not donate sperm.

Infertility

Based on findings in animals, female fertility may be compromised by treatment with POMALYST [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

8.4. Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of POMALYST have not been established in pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness were assessed but not established in two open-label studies: a dose escalation study in 25 pediatric patients aged 5 to <17 with recurrent, progressive or refractory CNS tumors [NCT02415153] and a parallel-group study conducted in 47 pediatric patients aged 4 to <17 years with recurrent or progressive high-grade glioma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) [NCT03257631]. No new safety signals were observed in pediatric patients across these studies.

At the same dose by body surface area, pomalidomide exposure in 55 pediatric patients aged 4 to <17 years old was within the range observed in adult patients with MM but higher than the exposure observed in adult patients with KS [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.5. Geriatric Use

Multiple Myeloma

Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of POMALYST, 44% were aged older than 65 years, while 10% were aged older than 75 years. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. In these studies, patients older than 65 years were more likely than patients less than or equal to 65 years of age to experience pneumonia.

Kaposi Sarcoma

Of the 28 patients who received POMALYST, 11% were 65 years or older, and 3.6% were 75 years of age or older. The clinical study did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.

8.6. Renal Impairment

In patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, the AUC of pomalidomide increased by 38% and the rate of SAE increased by 64% relative to patients with normal renal function; therefore, starting dose adjustment is recommended.For patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, administer POMALYST after the completion of hemodialysis on dialysis days because exposure of pomalidomide could be significantly decreased during dialysis [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.7. Hepatic Impairment

Pomalidomide is metabolized primarily by the liver. Following single dose administration, the AUC of pomalidomide increased 51%, 58%, and 72% in subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A), moderate (Child-Pugh class B), and severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment, respectively compared to subjects with normal liver function. Dose adjustment is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.8) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8. Use in Specific Populations

8.8 Smoking Tobacco

Cigarette smoking reduces pomalidomide AUC due to CYP1A2 induction. Advise patients that smoking may reduce the efficacy of pomalidomide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

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