ELIGARD- leuprolide acetate   
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC

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DESCRIPTION

ELIGARD® is a sterile polymeric matrix formulation of leuprolide acetate for subcutaneous injection. It is designed to deliver leuprolide acetate at a controlled rate over a one-, three-, four- or six-month therapeutic period.

Leuprolide acetate is a synthetic nonapeptide analog of naturally occurring gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH or LH-RH) that, when given continuously, inhibits pituitary gonadotropin secretion and suppresses testicular and ovarian steroidogenesis. The analog possesses greater potency than the natural hormone. The chemical name is 5-oxo-L-prolyl-L-histidyl-L-tryptophyl-L-seryl-L-tyrosyl-D-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-arginyl-N-ethyl-L-prolinamide acetate (salt) with the following structural formula:

Chemical Structure

ELIGARD® is prefilled and supplied in two separate, sterile syringes whose contents are mixed immediately prior to administration. The two syringes are joined and the single dose product is mixed until it is homogenous. ELIGARD® is administered subcutaneously, where it forms a solid drug delivery depot.

One syringe contains the ATRIGEL® Delivery System and the other contains leuprolide acetate. ATRIGEL® is a polymeric (non-gelatin containing) delivery system consisting of a biodegradable poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGH or PLG) polymer formulation dissolved in a biocompatible solvent, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP).

Refer to Table 1 for the delivery system composition and constituted product formulation for each ELIGARD® product.

Table 1. ELIGARD® Delivery System Composition and Constituted Product Formulation
ELIGARD®
7.5 mg
ELIGARD®
22.5 mg
ELIGARD®
30 mg
ELIGARD®
45 mg
ATRIGEL® Delivery System SyringePolymerPLGHPLGPLGPLG
Polymer descriptionCopolymer containing carboxyl endgroupsCopolymer with hexanediolCopolymer with hexanediolCopolymer with hexanediol
Polymer DL-lactide to Glycolide Molar Ratio50:5075:2575:2585:15
Constituted Product Polymer delivered82.5 mg158.6 mg211.5 mg165 mg
NMP delivered160.0 mg193.9 mg258.5 mg165 mg
Leuprolide acetate delivered7.5 mg22.5 mg30 mg45 mg
Approximate Leuprolide free base equivalent7.0 mg21 mg28 mg42 mg
Approximate administered formulation weight250 mg375 mg500 mg375 mg
Approximate injection volume0.25 mL0.375 mL0.5 mL0.375 mL

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Leuprolide acetate, an LH-RH agonist, acts as a potent inhibitor of gonadotropin secretion when given continuously in therapeutic doses. Animal and human studies indicate that after an initial stimulation, chronic administration of leuprolide acetate results in suppression of testicular and ovarian steroidogenesis. This effect is reversible upon discontinuation of drug therapy.

In humans, administration of leuprolide acetate results in an initial increase in circulating levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to a transient increase in levels of the gonadal steroids (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in males, and estrone and estradiol in premenopausal females). However, continuous administration of leuprolide acetate results in decreased levels of LH and FSH. In males, testosterone is reduced to below castrate threshold (≤ 50 ng/dL). These decreases occur within two to four weeks after initiation of treatment. Long-term studies have shown that continuation of therapy with leuprolide acetate maintains testosterone below the castrate level for up to seven years.

PHARMACODYNAMICS

Following the first dose of ELIGARD®, mean serum testosterone concentrations transiently increased, then fell to below castrate threshold (≤ 50 ng/dL) within three weeks for all ELIGARD® concentrations.

Continued monthly treatment with ELIGARD® 7.5 mg maintained castrate testosterone suppression throughout the study. No breakthrough of testosterone concentrations above castrate threshold (> 50 ng/dL) occurred at any time during the study once castrate suppression was achieved (Figure 1).

One patient received less than a full dose of ELIGARD® 22.5 mg at baseline, never suppressed and withdrew from the study at Day 73. Of the 116 patients remaining in the study, 115 (99%) had serum testosterone levels below the castrate threshold by Month 1 (Day 28). By Day 35, 116 (100%) had serum testosterone levels below the castrate threshold. Once testosterone suppression was achieved, one patient (< 1%) demonstrated breakthrough (concentrations > 50 ng/dL after achieving castrate levels) following the initial injection; that patient remained below the castrate threshold following the second injection (Figure 2).

One patient withdrew from the ELIGARD® 30 mg study at Day 14. Of the 89 patients remaining in the study, 85 (96%) had serum testosterone levels below the castrate threshold by Month 1 (Day 28). By Day 42, 89 (100%) of patients attained castrate testosterone suppression. Once castrate testosterone suppression was achieved, three patients (3%) demonstrated breakthrough (concentrations > 50 ng/dL after achieving castrate levels) (Figure 3).

One patient at Day 1 and another patient at Day 29 were withdrawn from the ELIGARD® 45 mg study. Of the 109 patients remaining in the study, 108 (99.1%) had serum testosterone levels below the castrate threshold by Month 1 (Day 28). One patient did not achieve castrate suppression and was withdrawn from the study at Day 85. Once castrate testosterone suppression was achieved, one patient (< 1%) demonstrated breakthrough (concentrations > 50 ng/dL after achieving castrate levels) (Figure 4).

Leuprolide acetate is not active when given orally.

PHARMACOKINETICS

Absorption

ELIGARD® 7.5 mg

The pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics observed during three once-monthly injections in 20 patients with advanced prostate cancer is shown in Figure 1. Mean serum leuprolide concentrations following the initial injection rose to 25.3 ng/mL (Cmax) at approximately 5 hours after injection. After the initial increase following each injection, serum concentrations remained relatively constant (0.28 – 2.00 ng/mL).
 

Figure 1 Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Response (N=20) to ELIGARD® 7.5 mg – Patients Dosed Initially and at Months 1 and 2

Figure

A reduced number of sampling timepoints resulted in the apparent decrease in Cmax values with the second and third doses of ELIGARD® 7.5 mg (Figure 1).

ELIGARD® 22.5 mg

The pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics observed during two injections every three months (ELIGARD® 22.5 mg) in 22 patients with advanced prostate cancer is shown in Figure 2. Mean serum leuprolide concentrations rose to 127 ng/mL and 107 ng/mL at approximately 5 hours following the initial and second injections, respectively. After the initial increase following each injection, serum concentrations remained relatively constant (0.2 – 2.0 ng/mL).
 

Figure 2 Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Response (N=22) to ELIGARD® 22.5 mg – Patients Dosed Initially and at Month 3

Figure

ELIGARD® 30 mg

The pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics observed during injections administered initially and at four months (ELIGARD® 30 mg ) in 24 patients with advanced prostate cancer is shown in Figure 3. Mean serum leuprolide concentrations following the initial injection rose rapidly to 150 ng/mL (Cmax) at approximately 3.3 hours after injection. After the initial increase following each injection, mean serum concentrations remained relatively constant (0.1 – 1.0 ng/mL).
 

Figure 3 Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Response (N=24) to ELIGARD® 30 mg – Patients Dosed Initially and at Month 4

Figure

ELIGARD® 45 mg

The pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics observed during injections administered initially and at six months (ELIGARD® 45 mg) in 27 patients with advanced prostate cancer is shown in Figure 4. Mean serum leuprolide concentrations rose to 82.0 ng/mL and 102 ng/mL (Cmax) at approximately 4.5 hours following the initial and second injections, respectively. After the initial increase following each injection, mean serum concentrations remained relatively constant (0.2 – 2.0 ng/mL).
 

Figure 4 Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Response (N=27) to ELIGARD® 45 mg - Patients Dosed Initially and at Month 6

Figure

There was no evidence of significant accumulation during repeated dosing. Nondetectable leuprolide plasma concentrations have been occasionally observed during ELIGARD® administration, but testosterone levels were maintained at castrate levels.

Distribution

The mean steady-state volume of distribution of leuprolide following intravenous bolus administration to healthy male volunteers was 27 L.1 In vitro binding to human plasma proteins ranged from 43% to 49%.


1
Sennello LT et al. Single-dose pharmacokinetics of leuprolide in humans following intravenous and subcutaneous administration. J Pharm Sci 1986; 75(2): 158–160.

Metabolism

In healthy male volunteers, a 1-mg bolus of leuprolide administered intravenously revealed that the mean systemic clearance was 8.34 L/h, with a terminal elimination half-life of approximately 3 hours based on a two compartment model.1

No drug metabolism study was conducted with ELIGARD®. Upon administration with different leuprolide acetate formulations, the major metabolite of leuprolide acetate is a pentapeptide (M-1) metabolite.

Excretion

No drug excretion study was conducted with ELIGARD®.

Special Populations

Geriatrics

The majority of the patients (approximately 70%) studied in the clinical trials were age 70 and older.

Pediatrics

The safety and effectiveness of ELIGARD® in pediatric patients have not been established (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Race

In patients studied, mean serum leuprolide concentrations were similar regardless of race. Refer to Table 2 for distribution of study patients by race.

Table 2. Race Characterization of Study Patients
RaceELIGARD®
7.5 mg
ELIGARD®
22.5 mg
ELIGARD®
30 mg
ELIGARD®
45 mg
White26191817
Black-447
Hispanic2223

Renal and Hepatic Insufficiency

The pharmacokinetics of ELIGARD® in hepatically and renally impaired patients have not been determined

Drug-Drug Interactions

No pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction studies were conducted with ELIGARD®.

CLINICAL STUDIES

One open-label, multicenter study was conducted with each ELIGARD® formulation (7.5 mg, 22.5 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg) in patients with Jewett stage A though D prostate cancer who were treated with at least a single injection of study drug (Table 3). These studies evaluated the achievement and maintenance of castrate serum testosterone suppression over the duration of therapy (Figures 5–8).

During the AGL9904 study using ELIGARD® 7.5 mg, once testosterone suppression was achieved, no patients (0%) demonstrated breakthrough (concentration >50 ng/dL) at any time in the study.

During the AGL9909 study using ELIGARD® 22.5 mg, once testosterone suppression was achieved, only one patient (< 1%) demonstrated breakthrough following the initial injection; that patient remained below the castrate threshold following the second injection.

During the AGL0001 study using ELIGARD® 30 mg, once testosterone suppression was achieved, three patients (3%) demonstrated breakthrough. In the first of these patients, a single serum testosterone concentration of 53 ng/dL was reported on the day after the second injection. In this patient, castrate suppression was reported for all other timepoints. In the second patient, a serum testosterone concentration of 66 ng/dL was reported immediately prior to the second injection. This rose to a maximum concentration of 147 ng/dL on the second day after the second injection. In this patient, castrate suppression was again reached on the seventh day after the second injection and was maintained thereafter. In the final patient, serum testosterone concentrations > 50 ng/dL were reported at 2 and at 8 hours after the second injection. Serum testosterone concentration rose to a maximum of 110 ng/dL on the third day after the second injection. In this patient, castrate suppression was again reached eighteen days after the second injection and was maintained until the final day of the study, when a single serum testosterone concentration of 55 ng/dL was reported.

During the AGL0205 study using ELIGARD® 45 mg, once testosterone suppression was achieved, one patient (<1%) demonstrated breakthrough. This patient reached castrate suppression at Day 21 and remained suppressed until Day 308 when his testosterone level rose to 112 ng/dL. At Month 12 (Day 336), his testosterone was 210 ng/dL.

Table 3. Summary of ELIGARD® Clinical Studies
7.5 mg22.5 mg30 mg45 mg
*
One patient received less than a full dose at Baseline, never suppressed, and was withdrawn at Day 73 and given an alternate treatment.
All non-evaluable patients who attained castration by Day 28 maintained castration at each timepoint up to and including the time of withdrawal.
One patient withdrew on Day 14. All 7 non-evaluable patients who had achieved castration by Day 28 maintained castration at each timepoint, up to and including the time of withdrawal.
§
Two patients were withdrawn prior to the Month 1 blood draw. One patient did not achieve castration and was withdrawn on Day 85. All 5 non-evaluable patients who attained castration by Day 28, maintained castration at each timepoint up to and including the time of withdrawal.
Two patients withdrew for reasons unrelated to drug.
Study numberAGL9904AGL9909AGL0001AGL0205
Total Number of patients120 (117 completed)117* (111 completed)90 (82 completed)111 (103 completed§)
Jewett StagesStage A-225
Stage B-193843
Stage C89601619
Stage D31363444
Treatment6 monthly injections1 injection (4 patients)1 injection (5 patients)1 injection (5 patients)
2 injections, one every three months (113 patients)2 injections, one every four months (85 patients)2 injections, one every six months (106 patients)
Duration of therapy6 months6 months8 months12 months
Mean testosterone concentration (ng/dL)Baseline361.3367.1385.5367.7
Day 2574.6 (Day 3)588.0610.0588.6
Day 14Below Baseline (Day 10)Below BaselineBelow BaselineBelow Baseline
Day 2821.827.7 (Day 21)17.216.7
Conclusion6.110.112.412.6
Number of patients below castrate threshold
(≤ 50 ng/dL)
Day 28112 of 119 (94.1%)115 of 116 (99%)85 of 89 (96%)108 of 109 (99.1%)
Day 35-116 (100%)--
Day 42119 (100%)-89 (100%)-
Conclusion117 (100%)111 (100%)81 (99%)102 (99%)
 

Figure 5 ELIGARD® 7.5 mg Mean Serum Testosterone Concentrations (n=117)

Figure

 

Figure 6 ELIGARD® 22.5 mg Mean Serum Testosterone Concentrations (n=111)

Figure

 

Figure 7 ELIGARD® 30 mg Mean Serum Testosterone Concentrations (n=90)

Figure

 

Figure 8 ELIGARD® 45 mg Mean Serum Testosterone Concentrations (n=103)

Figure

Serum PSA decreased in all patients in all studies whose Baseline values were elevated above the normal limit. Refer to Table 4 for a summary of the effectiveness of ELIGARD® in reducing serum PSA values.

Table 4 Effect of ELIGARD® on Patient Serum PSA Values
ELIGARD®7.5 mg 22.5 mg30 mg 45 mg
*
Among patients who presented with elevated levels at Baseline
Mean PSA Reduction at Study Conclusion94%98%86%97%
Patients with Normal PSA at Study Conclusion*94%91%93%95%

Other secondary efficacy endpoints evaluated included WHO performance status, bone pain, urinary pain and urinary signs and symptoms. Refer to Table 5 for a summary of these endpoints.

Table 5 Secondary Efficacy Endpoints
ELIGARD®
7.5 mg
ELIGARD®
22.5 mg
ELIGARD®
30 mg
ELIGARD®
45 mg
*
WHO Status = 0 classified as "fully active."
WHO Status = 1 classified as "restricted in strenuous activity but ambulatory and able to carry out work of a light or sedentary nature."
WHO Status = 2 classified as "ambulatory but unable to carry out work activities."
§
Pain score scale: 1 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain possible).
BaselineWHO Status = 0*88%94%90%90%
WHO Status = 111%6%10%7%
WHO Status = 23%
Mean Bone Pain§ (range)1.22 (1–9)1.20 (1–9)1.20 (1–7)1.38 (1–7)
Mean Urinary Pain (range)1.12 (1–5)1.02 (1–2)1.01 (1–2)1.22 (1–8)
Mean Urinary Signs and Symptoms (range)Low1.09 (1–4)LowLow
Number of Patients with Prostate Abnormalities102 (85%)96 (82%)66 (73%)89 (80%)
Month 6Month 6Month 8Month 12
Follow-upWHO Status = 0Unchanged96%87%94%
WHO Status = 1Unchanged4%12%5%
WHO Status = 21%1%
Mean Bone Pain (range)1.26 (1–7)1.22 (1–5)1.19 (1–8)1.31 (1–8)
Mean Urinary Pain (range)1.07 (1–8)1.10 (1–8)1.00 (1–1)1.07 (1–5)
Mean Urinary Signs and Symptoms (range)Modestly Decreased1.18 (1–7)Modestly DecreasedModestly Decreased
Number of Patients with Prostate Abnormalities77 (64%)76 (65%)54 (60%)60 (58%)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ELIGARD® is indicated for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  1. ELIGARD® is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to GnRH, GnRH agonist analogs or any of the components of ELIGARD®. Anaphylactic reactions to synthetic GnRH or GnRH agonist analogs have been reported in the literature.2
  2. ELIGARD® is contraindicated in women and in pediatric patients and was not studied in women or children. Moreover, leuprolide acetate can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Major fetal abnormalities were observed in rabbits but not in rats after administration of leuprolide acetate throughout gestation. There were increased fetal mortality and decreased fetal weights in rats and rabbits. The effects on fetal mortality are expected consequences of the alterations in hormonal levels brought about by this drug. The possibility exists that spontaneous abortion may occur.

2
MacLeod TL et al. Anaphylactic reaction to synthetic luteinizing hormone releasing hormone. Fertil Steril 1987 Sept; 48(3): 500–502.

WARNINGS

ELIGARD® 7.5 mg 22.5 mg 30 mg, like other LH-RH agonists, causes a transient increase in serum concentrations of testosterone during the first week of treatment. ELIGARD® 45 mg causes a transient increase in serum concentrations of testosterone during the first two weeks of treatment. Patients may experience worsening of symptoms or onset of new signs and symptoms during the first few weeks of treatment, including bone pain, neuropathy, hematuria, or bladder outlet obstruction. Isolated cases of ureteral obstruction and/or spinal cord compression, which may contribute to paralysis with or without fatal complications, have been observed in the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer using LH-RH agonists (see PRECAUTIONS).

If spinal cord compression or ureteral obstruction develops, standard treatment of these complications should be instituted.

PRECAUTIONS

General

Patients with metastatic vertebral lesions and/or with urinary tract obstruction should be closely observed during the first few weeks of therapy (see WARNINGS section).

Laboratory Tests

Response to ELIGARD® should be monitored by measuring serum concentrations of testosterone and prostate specific antigen periodically.

In the majority of patients, testosterone levels increased above Baseline during the first week, declining thereafter to Baseline levels or below by the end of the second or third week. Castrate levels were generally reached within two to four weeks.

Castrate testosterone levels were maintained for the duration of the treatment with ELIGARD® 7.5 mg. No increases to above the castrate level occurred in any of the patients.

Castrate levels were generally maintained for the duration of treatment with ELIGARD® 22.5 mg.

Once castrate levels were achieved with ELIGARD® 30 mg, most (86/89) patients remained suppressed throughout the study.

Once castrate levels were achieved with ELIGARD® 45 mg, only one patient (< 1%) experienced a breakthrough, with testosterone levels > 50 ng/dL.

Results of testosterone determinations are dependent on assay methodology. It is advisable to be aware of the type and precision of the assay methodology to make appropriate clinical and therapeutic decisions.

Drug Interactions

See PHARMACOKINETICS.

Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions

Therapy with leuprolide acetate results in suppression of the pituitary-gonadal system. Results of diagnostic tests of pituitary gonadotropic and gonadal functions conducted during and after leuprolide therapy may be affected.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Two-year carcinogenicity studies were conducted with leuprolide acetate in rats and mice. In rats, a dose-related increase of benign pituitary hyperplasia and benign pituitary adenomas was noted at 24 months when the drug was administered subcutaneously at high daily doses (0.6 to 4 mg/kg). There was a significant but not dose-related increase of pancreatic islet-cell adenomas in females and of testicular interstitial cell adenomas in males (highest incidence in the low dose group). In mice, no leuprolide acetate-induced tumors or pituitary abnormalities were observed at a dose as high as 60 mg/kg for two years. Patients have been treated with leuprolide acetate for up to three years with doses as high as 10 mg/day and for two years with doses as high as 20 mg/day without demonstrable pituitary abnormalities. No carcinogenicity studies have been conducted with ELIGARD®.

Mutagenicity studies have been performed with leuprolide acetate using bacterial and mammalian systems and with ELIGARD® 7.5 mg in bacterial systems. These studies provided no evidence of a mutagenic potential.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic Effects

Pregnancy category X

(see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Pediatric Use

ELIGARD® is contraindicated in pediatric patients and was not studied in children (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The safety of all ELIGARD® formulations was evaluated in clinical trials involving patients with advanced prostate cancer. In addition, the safety of ELIGARD® 7.5 mg was evaluated in 8 surgically castrated males (Table 7). ELIGARD®, like other LH-RH analogs, caused a transient increase in serum testosterone concentrations during the first one to two weeks of treatment. Therefore, potential exacerbations of signs and symptoms of the disease during the first weeks of treatment are of concern in patients with vertebral metastases and/or urinary obstruction or hematuria. If these conditions are aggravated, it may lead to neurological problems such as weakness and/or paresthesia of the lower limbs or worsening of urinary symptoms (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS).

During the clinical trials, injection sites were closely monitored. Refer to Table 6 for a summary of reported injection site events.

Table 6 Reported Injection Site Adverse Events
7.5 mg22.5 mg30 mg45 mg
*
Following injection of ELIGARD® 30 mg, three of the 35 burning/stinging events were reported as moderate.
A single event reported as moderate pain resolved within two minutes and all 3 mild pain events resolved within several days following injection of ELIGARD® 30 mg.
Transient pain was reported as mild in intensity in nine of ten (90%) events and moderate in intensity in one of ten (10%) events following injection of ELIGARD® 45 mg.
§
Erythema was reported following 2 injections of ELIGARD® 22.5 mg. One report characterized the erythema as mild and it resolved within 7 days. The other report characterized the erythema as moderate and it resolved within 15 days. Neither patient experienced erythema at multiple injections.
Mild bruising was reported following 5 (2.3%) study injections and moderate bruising was reported following 2 (<1%) study injections of ELIGARD® 45 mg.
Study NumberAGL9904AGL9909AGL0001AGL0205
Number of patients12011790111
Treatment1 injection every month up to 6 months1 injection every 3 months up to 6 months1 injection every 4 months up to 8 months1 injection every 6 months up to 12 months
Number of injections716230175217
 
Transient burning/stinging248 (34.6%) injections;84% reported as mild50 (21.7%) injections; 86% reported as mild35 (20%) injections; 100% reported as mild35 (16%) injections; 91.4% reported as mild*
Pain (generally brief and mild)4.3% of injections (18.3% of patients)3.5% of injections (6.0% of patients)2.3% of injections (3.3% of patients)4.6% of injections
Erythema (generally brief and mild)2.6% of injections (12.5% of patients)0.9% of injections§ (1.7% of patients)1.1% of injections (2.2% of patients)
Bruising (Mild)2.5% of injections (11.7% of patients)1.7% of injections (3.4% of patients)2.3% of injections
Pruritis1.4% of injections (9.2% of patients)0.4% of injections (0.9% of patients)
Induration0.4% of injections (2.5% of patients)
Ulceration0.1% of injections (> 0.8% of patients)

These localized adverse events were non-recurrent over time. No patient discontinued therapy due to an injection site adverse event.

The following possibly or probably related systemic adverse events occurred during clinical trials with ELIGARD®, and were reported in > 2% of patients (Table 7). Often, causality is difficult to assess in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. Reactions considered not drug-related are excluded.

Table 7 Summary of Possible or Probably Related Systemic Adverse Events Reported by > 2% of Patients treated with ELIGARD®
7.5 mg 7.5 mg 22.5 mg 30 mg 45 mg
In the patient populations studied with ELIGARD® 7.5 mg, a total of 86 hot flashes/sweats adverse events were reported in 70 patients. Of these, 71 events (83%) were mild; 14 (16%) were moderate; 1 (1%) was severe.
In the patient population studied with ELIGARD® 22.5 mg, a total of 84 hot flashes/sweats adverse events were reported in 66 patients. Of these, 73 events (87%) were mild; 11 (13%) were moderate; none were severe.
In the patient population studied with ELIGARD® 30 mg, a total of 75 hot flash adverse events were reported in 66 patients. Of these, 57 events (76%) were mild; 16 (21%) were moderate; 2 (3%) were severe.
In the patient population studied with ELIGARD® 45 mg, a total of 89 hot flash adverse events were reported in 64 patients. Of these, 62 events (70%) were mild; 27 (30%) were moderate; none were severe.
*
Expected pharmacological consequences of testosterone suppression.
Study NumberAGL9904AGL9802AGL9909AGL0001AGL0205
Number of patients120811790111
Treatment1 injection every month up to 6 months1 injection (surgically castrated patients)1 injection every 3 months up to 6 months1 injection every 4 months up to 8 months1 injection every 6 months up to 12 months
Body SystemAdverse EventNumber (Percent)
Body as a WholeMalaise and Fatigue21 (17.5 %)7 (6.0%)12 (13.3%)13 (11.7%)
Weakness4 (3.6%)
Nervous SystemDizziness4 (3.3%)4 (4.4%)
VascularHot flashes/sweats68 (56.7%)*2 (25.0%)*66 (56.4%)*66 (73.3%)*64 (57.7%)*
Renal/UrinaryUrinary frequency3 (2.6%)2 (2.2%)
Nocturia2 (2.2%)
GastrointestinalNausea4 (3.4%)2 (2.2%)
Gastroenteritis/colitis3 (2.5%)
Skin Pruritis3 (2.6%)
Clamminess4 (4.4%)*
Night sweats3 (3.3%)*3 (2.7%)*
Alopecia2 (2.2%)
MusculoskeletalArthralgia4 (3.4%)
Myalgia2 (2.2%)5 (4.5%)
Pain in limb3 (2.7%)
ReproductiveTesticular atrophy6 (5.0%)4 (4.4%)*8 (7.2%)*
Gynecomastia2 (2.2%)*4 (3.6%)*
Testicular pain2 (2.2%)
PsychiatricDecreased libido3 (3.3%)*

In addition, the following possibly or probably related systemic adverse events were reported by < 2% of the patients treated with ELIGARD® in these clinical studies.

Body SystemAdverse Event
*
Expected pharmacological consequences of testosterone suppression.
GeneralSweating, insomnia, syncope, rigors, weakness, lethargy
GastrointestinalFlatulence, constipation, dyspepsia
HematologicDecreased red blood cell count, hematocrit and hemoglobin
MetabolicWeight gain
MusculoskeletalTremor, backache, joint pain, muscle atrophy, limb pain
NervousDisturbance of smell and taste, depression, vertigo
PsychiatricInsomnia, depression, loss of libido*
Renal/UrinaryDifficulties with urination, pain on urination, scanty urination, bladder spasm, blood in urine, urinary retention, urinary urgency, incontinence, nocturia, nocturia aggravated
Reproductive/
Urogenital:
Testicular soreness/pain, impotence*, decreased libido*, gynecomastia*, breast soreness/tenderness*, testicular atrophy*, erectile dysfunction, penile disorder*, reduced penis size
SkinAlopecia, clamminess, night sweats*, sweating increased*
VascularHypertension, hypotension

Changes in Bone Density

Decreased bone density has been reported in the medical literature in men who have had orchiectomy or who have been treated with an LH-RH agonist analog.3 It can be anticipated that long periods of medical castration in men will have effects on bone density.


3
Hatano T et al. Incidence of bone fracture in patients receiving luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists for prostate cancer. BJU International 2000 86: 449–452.

Post-Marketing

Pituitary apoplexy

During post-marketing surveillance, rare cases of pituitary apoplexy (a clinical syndrome secondary to infarction of the pituitary gland) have been reported after the administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists. In a majority of these cases, a pituitary adenoma was diagnosed with a majority of pituitary apoplexy cases occurring within 2 weeks of the first dose, and some within the first hour. In these cases, pituitary apoplexy has presented as sudden headache, vomiting, visual changes, ophthalmoplegia, altered mental status, and sometimes cardiovascular collapse. Immediate medical attention has been required.

OVERDOSAGE

In clinical trials using daily subcutaneous injections of leuprolide acetate in patients with prostate cancer, doses as high as 20 mg/day for up to two years caused no adverse effects differing from those observed with the 1 mg/day dose.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

ELIGARD® is administered subcutaneously and provides continuous release of leuprolide acetate over a one-, three-, four- or six-month treatment period (Table 8). The injection delivers the dose of leuprolide acetate incorporated in a polymer formulation.

Table 8 ELIGARD® Recommended Dosing
Dosage7.5 mg22.5 mg30 mg 45 mg
Recommended dose1 injection every month1 injection every 3 months1 injection every 4 months1 injection every 6 months

Once mixed, ELIGARD® should be discarded if not administered within 30 minutes.

As with other drugs administered by subcutaneous injection, the injection site should vary periodically. The specific injection location chosen should be an area with sufficient soft or loose subcutaneous tissue. In clinical trials, the injection was administered in the upper- or mid-abdominal area. Avoid areas with brawny or fibrous subcutaneous tissue or locations that could be rubbed or compressed (i.e., with a belt or clothing waistband).

Mixing Procedure

IMPORTANT: Allow the product to reach room temperature before using. Once mixed, the product must be administered within 30 minutes.

Follow the instructions as directed to ensure proper preparation of ELIGARD® prior to administration:

ELIGARD® is packaged in either thermoformed trays or pouches. Each carton contains:

  • One sterile Syringe A pre-filled with the ATRIGEL® Delivery System
  • One Syringe B pre-filled with leuprolide acetate powder
  • One long white plunger rod for use with Syringe B
  • One sterile needle
  • Desiccant pack(s)
1.
On a clean field, open all of the packages and remove the contents. Discard the desiccant pack(s).

Figure

2.
Pull out the blue-tipped short plunger rod and attached stopper from Syringe B and discard (Figure 9). Gently insert the long, white replacement plunger rod into the gray primary stopper remaining in Syringe B by twisting it in place (Figure 10).

Figure

3.
Unscrew the clear cap from Syringe A (Figure 11). Remove the gray rubber cap from Syringe B (Figure 12).

Figure

4.
Join the two syringes together by pushing in and twisting until secure (Figure 13).
 

Figure

5.
Inject the liquid contents of Syringe A into Syringe B containing the leuprolide acetate. Thoroughly mix the product by pushing the contents of both syringes back and forth between syringes (approximately 45 seconds) to obtain a uniform suspension (Figure 14). (7.5 mg PI, 22.5 mg PI, 30 mg PI, 45 mg PI) When thoroughly mixed, the suspension will appear light tan to tan (ELIGARD® 7.5 mg) or colorless to pale yellow (ELIGARD®, 22.5 mg, 30 mg and 45 mg) in color. PleaseNote: Product must be mixed as described; shaking will not provide adequate mixing of the product.
 

Figure

6.
Hold the syringes vertically with Syringe B on the bottom. The syringes should remain securely coupled. Draw the entire mixed product into Syringe B (short, wide syringe) by depressing the Syringe A plunger and slightly withdrawing the Syringe B plunger. Uncouple Syringe A while continuing to push down on the Syringe A plunger (Figure 15). Note: Small air bubbles will remain in the formulation – this is acceptable.
 

Figure

7.
Hold Syringe B upright. Remove the cap on the bottom of the sterile needle cartridge by twisting it (Figure 16). Attach the needle cartridge to the end of Syringe B (Figure 17) by pushing in and turning the needle until it is firmly seated. Do not twist the needle onto the syringe until it is stripped. Pull off the clear needle cartridge cover prior to administration (Figure 18).

Administration Procedure

IMPORTANT: Allow the product to reach room temperature before using. Once mixed, the product must be administered within 30 minutes.

  1. Choose an injection site on the abdomen, upper buttocks, or anywhere with adequate amounts of subcutaneous tissue that does not have excessive pigment, nodules, lesions, or hair. Since you can vary the injection site with a subcutaneous injection, choose an area that hasn't recently been used.
  2. Cleanse the injection-site area with an alcohol swab.
  3. Using the thumb and forefinger of your nondominant hand, grab and bunch the area of skin around the injection site.

    Figure

  4. Using your dominant hand, insert the needle quickly at a 90° angle. The approximate angle you use will depend on the amount and fullness of the subcutaneous tissue and the length of the needle. After the needle is inserted, release the skin with your nondominant hand.

    Figure

  5. Inject the drug using a slow, steady push. Press down on the plunger until the syringe is empty.
  6. Withdraw the needle quickly at the same angle used for insertion.
  7. Discard all components safely in an appropriate biohazard container.

HOW SUPPLIED

ELIGARD® is available in a single use kit. The kit consists of a two-syringe mixing system, a sterile needle (Table 9), a silicone desiccant pouch to control moisture uptake, and a package insert for constitution and administration procedures. Each syringe is individually packaged. One contains the ATRIGEL® Delivery System and the other contains leuprolide acetate. When constituted, ELIGARD® is administered as a single dose.

Table 9. ELIGARD® Needle specifications
ELIGARD® formulationGaugeLength
7.5 mg20-gauge½-inch
22.5 mg20-gauge½-inch
30 mg20-gauge5/8-inch
45 mg18-gauge5/8-inch

ELIGARD® 7.5 mg – NDC 0024-0793-75
ELIGARD® 22.5 mg – NDC 0024-0222-05
ELIGARD® 30 mg – NDC 0024-0610-30
ELIGARD® 45 mg – NDC 0024-0605-45

Store at 2 – 8 °C (35.6 – 46.4 °F)

Manufactured by: TOLMAR, Inc.
Fort Collins, CO 80526
for: TOLMAR Therapeutics, Inc.
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Distributed by: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

44380, Rev 1 11/09      Revised 11/2009

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Carton

E-907

NDC 0024-0793-75

Eligard® 7.5 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

7.5 mg Every month

Sterile

For subcutaneous injection

Must be constituted before use

Store refrigerated 2 to 8°C
(36 to 46°F)

Rx Only

sanofi aventis

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Carton

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Syringe

Rx Only
NDC
0024-0794-75
E-907
Syringe A

Eligard® 7.5 mg
leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension

330 mg ATRIGEL® Delivery System
This syringe does not contain the active drug

Sterile
For subcutaneous injection

sanofi aventis

LOT:
EXP:

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Syringe

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Diluent

Syringe B

E-907

Rx Only

NDC 0024-0793-74

Eligard® 7.5 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

Delivers 7.5 mg
leuprolide acetate

Actual content 10.2 mg
lyophilized leuprolide acetate

Dist. by: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

04100 Rev. 5 2/08

50088124

Lot #

Exp.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 7.5 mg Diluent

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Carton

E-922

NDC 0024-0222-05

Eligard® 22.5 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

22.5 mg Every 3 months

Sterile

For subcutaneous injection

Must be constituted before use

Store refrigerated 2 to 8°C
(36 to 46°F)

Rx Only

sanofi aventis

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Carton

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Syringe

Rx Only
NDC
0024-0223-05
E-922
Syringe A

Eligard® 22.5 mg
leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension

440 mg ATRIGEL® Delivery System
This syringe does not contain the active drug

Sterile
For subcutaneous injection

sanofi aventis

LOT:
EXP:

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Syringe

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Diluent

Syringe B

E-922

Rx Only

NDC 0024-0222-04

Eligard® 22.5 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

Delivers 22.5 mg
leuprolide acetate

Actual content 28.2 mg
lyophilized leuprolide acetate

Dist. by: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

04107 Rev. 4 2/08

50088123

Lot #

Exp.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22.5 mg Diluent

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Carton

E-130

NDC 0024-0610-30

Eligard® 30 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

30 mg Every 4 months

Sterile

For subcutaneous injection

Must be constituted before use

Store refrigerated 2 to 8°C
(36 to 46°F)

Rx Only

sanofi aventis

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Carton

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Syringe

Rx Only
NDC
0024-0611-30
E-130
Syringe A

Eligard® 30 mg
leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension

560 mg ATRIGEL® Delivery System
This syringe does not contain the active drug

Sterile
For subcutaneous injection

sanofi aventis

LOT:
EXP:

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Syringe

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Diluent

Syringe B

E-130

Rx Only

NDC 0024-0610-29

Eligard® 30 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

Delivers 30 mg
leuprolide acetate

Actual content 35.8 mg
lyophilized leuprolide acetate

Dist. by: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

04202 Rev. 4 2/08

50088122

Lot #

Exp.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 mg Diluent

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Carton

E-045

NDC 0024-0605-45

Eligard® 45 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

45 mg Every 6 months

Sterile

For subcutaneous injection

Must be constituted before use

Store refrigerated 2 to 8°C
(36 to 46°F)

Rx Only

sanofi aventis

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Carton

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Syringe

Rx ONLY
NDC
0024-0606-45
E-045
Syringe A

Eligard® 45 mg
leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension

434 mg ATRIGEL® Delivery System
This syringe does not contain the active drug

Sterile
For subcutaneous injection

sanofi aventis

LOT:
EXP:

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Syringe

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Diluent

Syringe B

E-045

Rx Only

NDC 0024-0605-44

Eligard® 45 mg

leuprolide acetate for
injectable suspension

Delivers 45 mg leuprolide acetate

Actual content 59.2 mg
lyophilized leuprolide acetate

Dist. by: sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

44503 Rev. 0 5/09

50091082

Lot #

Exp.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 45 mg Diluent
ELIGARD 
leuprolide acetate kit
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABELItem Code (Source)NDC:0024-0793
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
1NDC:0024-0793-751 in 1 CARTON
Quantity of Parts
Part #Package QuantityTotal Product Quantity
Part 11 SYRINGE 0.25 mL
Part 21 SYRINGE 0.25 mL
Part 1 of 2
LEUPROLIDE ACETATE 
leuprolide acetate injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
leuprolide acetate (leuprolide) leuprolide7.5 mg  in 0.25 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.25 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02134301/23/2002
Part 2 of 2
ATRIGEL DELIVERY SYSTEM 
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (50/50, 0.45-0.6 dl/g inherent viscosity) injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone160 mg  in 0.25 mL
POLY(LACTIC-CO-GLYCOLIC ACID) (50/50, 0.45-0.6 DL/G INHERENT VISCOSITY)82.5 mg  in 0.25 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.25 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02134301/23/2002
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02134301/23/2002
ELIGARD 
leuprolide acetate kit
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABELItem Code (Source)NDC:0024-0222
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
1NDC:0024-0222-051 in 1 CARTON
Quantity of Parts
Part #Package QuantityTotal Product Quantity
Part 11 SYRINGE 0.375 mL
Part 21 SYRINGE 0.375 mL
Part 1 of 2
LEUPROLIDE ACETATE 
leuprolide acetate injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
leuprolide acetate (leuprolide) leuprolide22.5 mg  in 0.375 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.375 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02137901/23/2002
Part 2 of 2
ATRIGEL DELIVERY SYSTEM 
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (75/25, 0.23-0.26 dl/g inherent viscosity) injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone193.9 mg  in 0.375 mL
POLY(LACTIC-CO-GLYCOLIC ACID) (75/25, 0.23-0.26 DL/G INHERENT VISCOSITY)158.6 mg  in 0.375 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.375 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02137901/23/2002
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02137901/23/2002
ELIGARD 
leuprolide acetate kit
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABELItem Code (Source)NDC:0024-0610
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
1NDC:0024-0610-301 in 1 CARTON
Quantity of Parts
Part #Package QuantityTotal Product Quantity
Part 11 SYRINGE 0.5 mL
Part 21 SYRINGE 0.5 mL
Part 1 of 2
LEUPROLIDE ACETATE 
leuprolide acetate injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
leuprolide acetate (leuprolide) leuprolide30 mg  in 0.5 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.5 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02148801/23/2002
Part 2 of 2
ATRIGEL DELIVERY SYSTEM 
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (75/25, 0.23-0.26 dl/g inherent viscosity) injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone258.5 mg  in 0.5 mL
POLY(LACTIC-CO-GLYCOLIC ACID) (75/25, 0.23-0.26 DL/G INHERENT VISCOSITY)211.5 mg  in 0.5 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.5 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02148801/23/2002
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02148801/23/2002
ELIGARD 
leuprolide acetate kit
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABELItem Code (Source)NDC:0024-0605
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
1NDC:0024-0605-451 in 1 CARTON
Quantity of Parts
Part #Package QuantityTotal Product Quantity
Part 11 SYRINGE 0.375 mL
Part 21 SYRINGE 0.375 mL
Part 1 of 2
LEUPROLIDE ACETATE 
leuprolide acetate injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
leuprolide acetate (leuprolide) leuprolide45 mg  in 0.375 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.375 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02173101/23/2002
Part 2 of 2
ATRIGEL DELIVERY SYSTEM 
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (85/15, 0.25-0.27 dl/g inherent viscosity) injection, suspension, extended release
Product Information
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone165 mg  in 0.375 mL
POLY(LACTIC-CO-GLYCOLIC ACID) (85/15, 0.25-0.27 DL/G INHERENT VISCOSITY)165 mg  in 0.375 mL
Packaging
#Item CodePackage Description
10.375 mL in 1 SYRINGE
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02173101/23/2002
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02173101/23/2002
Labeler - sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC (824676584)
Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
Tolmar Inc.791156578MANUFACTURE

Revised: 11/2009
 
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC