FONDAPARINUX SODIUM - fondaparinux sodium injection 
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited

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HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use fondaparinux sodium safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for fondaparinux sodium. 
Fondaparinux Sodium Solution for subcutaneous injection  
Initial U.S. Approval: 2001


WARNING: SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMAS

Epidural or spinal hematomas may occur in patients who are anticoagulated with low molecular weight heparins (LMWH), heparinoids, or fondaparinux sodium and are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture.

These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

  • use of indwelling epidural catheters
  • concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, or other anticoagulants
  • a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal puncture
  • a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurologic impairment. If neurologic compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary.

Consider the benefit and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Drug Interactions (7).]

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES

Boxed Warning                                                                  1/2010

Dosage and Administration, Hepatic Impairment (2.4)             8/2009 


INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Fondaparinux sodium injection is a Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant) indicated for:

  • Prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery (including extended prophylaxis), hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, or abdominal surgery. (1.1)
  • Treatment of DVT or acute pulmonary embolism (PE) when administered in conjunction with warfarin. (1.2, 1.3)

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

  • Prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis: Fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg subcutaneously once daily after hemostasis has been established. The initial dose should be given no earlier than 6 to 8 hours after surgery and continued for 5 to 9 days. For patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, extended prophylaxis up to 24 additional days is recommended. (2.1, 2.2)
  • Treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: Fondaparinux sodium 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (50 to 100 kg), or 10 mg (>100 kg) subcutaneously once daily. Treatment should continue for at least 5 days until INR 2 to 3 achieved with warfarin sodium. (2.3)

Do not use as intramuscular injection. For subcutaneous use, do not mix with other injections or infusions.


DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

Single-dose, prefilled syringes containing 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg of fondaparinux. (3)


CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fondaparinux sodium injection is contraindicated in the following conditions: (4)

  • Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) in prophylaxis or treatment of venous thromboembolism.
  • Active major bleeding. Bacterial endocarditis.
  • Thrombocytopenia associated with a positive in vitro test for anti-platelet antibody in the presence of fondaparinux sodium.
  • Body weight <50 kg (venous thromboembolism prophylaxis only).

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

  • Use with caution in patients who have conditions or who are taking concomitant medications that increase risk of hemorrhage. (5.1)
  • Bleeding risk is increased in renal impairment and in patients with low body weight <50 kg (5.2, 5.3)
  • Thrombocytopenia can occur with administration of fondaparinux sodium. (5.4)
  • Periodic routine complete blood counts (including platelet counts), serum creatinine level, and stool occult blood tests are recommended (5.6)

ADVERSE REACTIONS

­The most common adverse reactions associated with the use of fondaparinux sodium are bleeding complications. (6.1) Mild local irritation (injection site bleeding, rash, and pruritus) may occur following subcutaneous injection. (6.2) Anemia, insomnia, increased wound drainage, hypokalemia, dizziness, hypotension, confusion, bullous eruption, hematoma, post-operative hemorrhage, and purpura may occur. (6.4)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Inc. at 1-888-375-3784 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch1


DRUG INTERACTIONS

­Discontinue agents that may enhance the risk of hemorrhage prior to initiation of therapy with fondaparinux sodium unless essential. If co-administration is necessary,monitor patients closely for hemorrhage. (7)


USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

  • Safety and effectiveness of fondaparinux sodium in pediatric patients have not been established.  Because the risk for bleeding during treatment with fondaparinux sodium is increased in adults who weigh <50 kg, bleeding may be a particular safety concern for use of fondaparinux sodium in the pediatric population. (4, 5.3)
  • Because elderly patients are more likely to have reduced renal function, fondaparinux sodiumshould be used with caution in these patients. (8.5)
  • The risk of bleeding is increased with reduced renal or hepatic function. (8.6, 8.7)


See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-approved patient labeling

Revised: 04/2010

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
* Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are not listed

WARNING: SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMAS

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES SECTION

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Prophylaxis of Deep Vein Thrombosis

1.2 Treatment of Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis

1.3 Treatment of Acute Pulmonary Embolism

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement, and Knee Replacement Surgery

2.2 Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Abdominal Surgery

2.3 Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Treatment

2.4 Hepatic Impairment

2.5 Instructions for Use

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Hemorrhage

5.2 Renal Impairment and Bleeding Risk

5.3 Body Weight <50 Kg and Bleeding Risk

5.4 Thrombocytopenia

5.5 Neuraxial Anesthesia and Post-operative Indwelling Epidural Catheter Use

5.6 Monitoring: Laboratory Tests

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

6.1 Hemorrhage

6.2 Local Reactions

6.3 Elevations of Serum Aminotransferases

6.4 Other Adverse Reactions

6.5 Postmarketing Experience

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

8.3 Nursing Mothers

8.4 Pediatric Use

8.5 Geriatric Use

8.6 Renal Impairment

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

10 OVERDOSAGE

11 DESCRIPTION

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

12.4 Special Populations

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

14.2 Extended Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

14.3 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Replacement Surgery

14.4 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Knee Replacement Surgery

14.5 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Abdominal Surgery in Patients at Risk for Thromboembolic Complications

14.6 Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

14.7 Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

17.1 Patient Advice

17.2 FDA-Approved Patient Labeling

Patient Information Sheet

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL SECTION


FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

WARNING: SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMAS

Epidural or spinal hematomas may occur in patients who are anticoagulated with low molecular weight heparins (LMWH), heparinoids, or fondaparinux sodium and are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurologic impairment. If neurologic compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary.  

Consider the benefit and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Drug Interactions (7).]

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Prophylaxis of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Fondaparinux sodium injection is indicated for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE):

  • in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, including extended prophylaxis;
  • in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery;
  • in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery;
  • in patients undergoing abdominal surgery who are at risk for thromboembolic complications.

1.2 Treatment of Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis

Fondaparinux sodium injection is indicated for the treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis when administered in conjunction with warfarin sodium.

1.3 Treatment of Acute Pulmonary Embolism

Fondaparinux sodium injection is indicated for the treatment of acute pulmonary embolism when administered in conjunction with warfarin sodium when initial therapy is administered in the hospital.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Do not mix other medications or solutions with fondaparinux sodium injection. Administer fondaparinux sodium injection only subcutaneously.

2.1 Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement, and Knee Replacement Surgery

In patients undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery, the recommended dose of fondaparinux sodium injection is 2.5 mg administered by subcutaneous injection once daily after hemostasis has been established. Administer the initial dose no earlier than 6 to 8 hours after surgery. Administration of fondaparinux sodium injection earlier than 6 hours after surgery increases the risk of major bleeding. The usual duration of therapy is 5 to 9 days; up to 11 days of therapy was administered in clinical trials.

In patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, an extended prophylaxis course of up to 24 additional days is recommended. In patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, a total of 32 days (peri-operative and extended prophylaxis) was administered in clinical trials. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Adverse Reactions (6), and Clinical Studies (14)].

2.2 Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Abdominal Surgery

In patients undergoing abdominal surgery, the recommended dose of fondaparinux sodium injection is 2.5 mg administered by subcutaneous injection once daily after hemostasis has been established. Administer the initial dose no earlier than 6 to 8 hours after surgery. Administration of fondaparinux sodium injection earlier than 6 hours after surgery increases the risk of major bleeding. The usual duration of administration is 5 to 9 days, and up to 10 days of fondaparinux sodium injection was administered in clinical trials.

2.3 Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Treatment

In patients with acute symptomatic DVT and in patients with acute symptomatic PE, the recommended dose of fondaparinux sodium injection is 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50 to 100 kg), or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) by subcutaneous injection once daily (fondaparinux sodium treatment regimen). Initiate concomitant treatment with warfarin sodium as soon as possible, usually within 72 hours. Continue treatment with fondaparinux sodium injection for at least 5 days and until a therapeutic oral anticoagulant effect is established (INR 2 to 3). The usual duration of administration of fondaparinux sodium injection is 5 to 9 days; up to 26 days of fondaparinux sodium injection was administered in clinical trials. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Adverse Reactions (6), and Clinical Studies (14)].

2.4 Hepatic Impairment

No dose adjustment is recommended in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, based upon single-dose pharmacokinetic data. Pharmacokinetic data are not available for patients with severe hepatic impairment. Patients with hepatic impairment may be particularly vulnerable to bleeding during fondaparinux sodium therapy. Observe these patients closely for signs and symptoms of bleeding. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.4).]

2.5 Instructions for Use

Fondaparinux sodium injection is provided in a single-dose, prefilled syringe affixed with an active needle protection system. Fondaparinux sodium is administered by subcutaneous injection. It must not be administered by intramuscular injection. Fondaparinux sodium injection is intended for use under a physician’s guidance. Patients may self-inject only if their physician determines that it is appropriate and the patients are trained in subcutaneous injection techniques.  Prior to administration, visually inspect fondaparinux sodium injection to ensure the solution is clear and free of particulate matter. The following instructions are specific to the Preventis® injection system and may differ from the directions for other injection systems.

To avoid the loss of drug when using the prefilled syringe, do not expel the air bubble from the syringe before the injection. Administration should be made in the fatty tissue, alternating injection sites (e.g., between the left and right anterolateral or the left and right posterolateral abdominal wall).

To administer fondaparinux sodium: 

STEP 1: 

  • Wipe the surface of the injection site with an alcohol swab.
  • Remove the needle shield by pulling it straight off the syringe (Figure 1).
  • Discard the needle shield.

fig1.jpg

STEP 2: 

  • Do not try to remove the air bubbles from the syringe before giving the injection.
  • Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site between your thumb and forefinger and hold it throughout the injection time.
  • Hold the syringe with your thumb on the top pad of the plunger and keep your index and middle fingers on the finger-grips of the syringe barrel. Pay attention to avoid pricking yourself with the exposed needle.
  • Insert the full length of the syringe needle perpendicularly into the skin fold held between the thumb and forefinger (Figure 2).
  • Push the plunger to the bottom of the syringe. This will ensure you have injected all the contents of the syringe.

fig2.jpg

STEP 3: 

  • Remove the syringe from the injection site keeping your finger on the plunger (Figure 3).

fig3.jpg

STEP 4:

  • Orient the needle away from you and others, and activate the safety shield by firmly pushing the plunger. The protective sleeve will automatically cover the needle and an audible "click" will be heard to confirm shield activation (Figure 4).

fig4.jpg

STEP 5: 

  • Immediately discard the syringe into the sharps container (Figure 5).

fig5.jpg

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

Single-dose, prefilled syringes containing either 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg of fondaparinux.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fondaparinux sodium injection is contraindicated in the following conditions:

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Hemorrhage

Use fondaparinux sodium with extreme caution in conditions with increased risk of hemorrhage, such as congenital or acquired bleeding disorders, active ulcerative and angiodysplastic gastrointestinal disease, hemorrhagic stroke, uncontrolled arterial hypertension, diabetic retinopathy, or shortly after brain, spinal, or ophthalmological surgery. Isolated cases of elevated aPTT temporally associated with bleeding events have been reported following administration of fondaparinux sodium (with or without concomitant administration of other anticoagulants) [See Adverse Reactions (6.5)].

Do not administer agents that enhance the risk of hemorrhage with fondaparinux sodium unless essential for the management of the underlying condition, such as vitamin K antagonists for the treatment of VTE. If co-administration is essential, closely monitor patients for signs and symptoms of bleeding.

Do not administer the initial dose of fondaparinux sodium earlier than 6 to 8 hours after surgery. Administration earlier than 6 hours after surgery increases risk of major bleeding [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.2 Renal Impairment and Bleeding Risk

Fondaparinux sodium increases the risk of bleeding in patients with impaired renal function due to reduced clearance [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4)].

The incidence of major bleeding by renal function status reported in clinical trials of patients receiving fondaparinux sodium for VTE surgical prophylaxis is provided in Table 1. In these patient populations, the following is recommended:

  • Do not use fondaparinux sodium for VTE prophylaxis and treatment in patients with CrCl <30 mL/min [seeContraindications (4)].
  • Use fondaparinux sodium with caution in patients with CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min.

Table 1. Incidence of Major Bleeding in Patients Treated With Fondaparinux Sodium by Renal Function Status for Surgical Prophylaxis and Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE)  

  Population Timing of DoseDegree of Renal Impairment
Normal % (n/N)Mild % (n/N)Moderate % (n/N)Severe % (n/N)
CrCl (mL/min) 8050 - <8030 - <50<30
Orthopedic surgeryaOverall1.6%
(25/1,565)
2.4%
(31/1,288)
3.8%
(19/504)
4.8%
(4/83)
6-8 hours
after surgery
1.8%
(16/905)
2.2%
(15/675)
2.3%
(6/265)
0%
(0/40)
Abdominal surgeryOverall2.1%
(13/606)
3.6%
(22/613)
6.7%
(12/179)
7.1%
(1/14)
6-8 hours
after surgery
2.1%
(10/467)
3.3%
(16/481)
5.8%
(8/137)
7.7%
(1/13)
DVT and PE Treatment 0.4%
(4/1,132)
1.6%
(12/733)
2.2%
(7/318)
7.3%
(4/55)

Assess renal function periodically in patients receiving fondaparinux sodium. Discontinue the drug immediately in patients who develop severe renal impairment while on therapy. After discontinuation of fondaparinux sodium, its anticoagulant effects may persist for 2 to 4 days in patients with normal renal function (i.e., at least 3 to 5 half-lives). The anticoagulant effects of fondaparinux sodium may persist even longer in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4)].

5.3 Body Weight <50 Kg and Bleeding Risk

Fondaparinux sodium increases the risk for bleeding in patients who weigh less than 50 kg, compared to patients with higher weights.

In patients who weigh less than 50 kg:

  • Do not administer fondaparinux sodium as prophylactic therapy for patients undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery and abdominal surgery [see Contraindications (4)].
  • Use fondaparinux sodium with caution in the treatment of PE and DVT.

During the randomized clinical trials of VTE prophylaxis in the peri-operative period following hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery and abdominal surgery, major bleeding occurred at a higher rate among patients with a body weight <50 kg compared to those with a body weight >50 kg (5.4% versus 2.1% in patients undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery; 5.3% versus 3.3% in patients undergoing abdominal surgery).

5.4 Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia can occur with the administration of fondaparinux sodium. Thrombocytopenia of any degree should be monitored closely. Discontinue fondaparinux sodium if the platelet count falls below 100,000/mm3. Moderate thrombocytopenia (platelet counts between 100,000/mm3 and 50,000/mm3) occurred at a rate of 3.0% in patients given fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg in the peri-operative hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery and abdominal surgery clinical trials. Severe thrombocytopenia (platelet counts less than 50,000/mm3) occurred at a rate of 0.2% in patients given fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg in these clinical trials. During extended prophylaxis, no cases of moderate or severe thrombocytopenia were reported.

Moderate thrombocytopenia occurred at a rate of 0.5% in patients given the fondaparinux sodium treatment regimen in the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials. Severe thrombocytopenia occurred at a rate of 0.04% in patients given the fondaparinux sodium treatment regimen in the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials.

Isolated occurrences of thrombocytopenia with thrombosis that manifested similar to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia have been reported with the use of fondaparinux sodium in postmarketing experience. [See Adverse Reactions (6.5).]

5.5 Neuraxial Anesthesia and Post-operative Indwelling Epidural Catheter Use

Spinal or epidural hematomas, which may result in long-term or permanent paralysis, can occur with the use of anticoagulants and neuraxial (spinal/epidural) anesthesia or spinal puncture. The risk of these events may be higher with post-operative use of indwelling epidural catheters or concomitant use of other drugs affecting hemostasis such as NSAIDs [see Boxed Warning]. In the postmarketing experience, epidural or spinal hematoma has been reported in association with the use of fondaparinux sodium by subcutaneous (SC) injection. Monitor patients undergoing these procedures for signs and symptoms of neurologic impairment. Consider the potential risks and benefits before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or who may be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis.

5.6 Monitoring: Laboratory Tests

Routine coagulation tests such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) are relatively insensitive measures of the activity of fondaparinux sodium and international standards of heparin or LMWH are not calibrators to measure anti-Factor Xa activity of fondaparinux sodium. If unexpected changes in coagulation parameters or major bleeding occurs during therapy with fondaparinux sodium, discontinue fondaparinux sodium. In postmarketing experience, isolated occurrences of aPTT elevations have been reported following administration of fondaparinux sodium [see Adverse Reactions (6.5)].

Periodic routine complete blood counts (including platelet count), serum creatinine level, and stool occult blood tests are recommended during the course of treatment with fondaparinux sodium.

The anti-Factor Xa activity of fondaparinux sodium can be measured by anti-Xa assay using the appropriate calibrator (fondaparinux). The activity of fondaparinux sodium is expressed in milligrams (mg) of the fondaparinux and cannot be compared with activities of heparin or low molecular weight heparins. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3).]

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most serious adverse reactions reported with fondaparinux sodium are bleeding complications and thrombocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5)].

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

The adverse reaction information below is based on data from 8,877 patients exposed to fondaparinux sodium in controlled trials of hip fracture, hip replacement, major knee, or abdominal surgeries, and DVT and PE treatment. These trials consisted of the following:

6.1 Hemorrhage

During administration of fondaparinux sodium, the most common adverse reactions were bleeding complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement, and Knee Replacement Surgery: The rates of major bleeding events reported during the hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery clinical trials with fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg are provided in Table 2.

Table 2. Bleeding Across Randomized, Controlled Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement, and Knee Replacement Surgery Studies

 Peri-Operative Prophylaxis (Day 1 to Day 7 ± 1 post-surgery)Extended Prophylaxis (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC
once daily
N = 3,616
Enoxaparin Sodium
a, b 
N = 3,956
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC
once daily
N = 327
Placebo SC
once daily
 N = 329
Major bleedingc 96 (2.7%) 75 (1.9%) 8 (2.4%) 2 (0.6%)
Hip fracture 18/831 (2.2%) 19/842 (2.3%) 8/327 (2.4%) 2/329 (0.6%)
Hip replacement 67/2,268 (3.0%) 55/2,597 (2.1%)
Knee replacement 11/517 (2.1%) 1/517 (0.2%)
Fatal bleeding 0 (0.0%) 1 (<0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Non-fatal bleeding at critical site 0 (0.0%) 1 (<0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Re-operation due to bleeding 12 (0.3%) 10 (0.3%) 2 (0.6%) 2 (0.6%)
BI ≥2d 84 (2.3%) 63 (1.6%) 6 (1.8%) 0 (0.0%)
Minor bleedinge109 (3.0%) 116 (2.9%) 5 (1.5%) 2 (0.6%)

a Enoxaparin sodium dosing regimen: 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily.

b Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.

c Major bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was (1) fatal, (2) bleeding at critical site (e.g. intracranial, retroperitoneal, intraocular, pericardial, spinal, or into adrenal gland), (3) associated with re-operation at operative site, or (4) with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2.

d BI ≥2: Overt bleeding associated only with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2 calculated as [number of whole blood or packed red blood cell units transfused + [(pre-bleeding) – (post-bleeding)] hemoglobin (g/dL) values].

e Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

A separate analysis of major bleeding across all randomized, controlled, peri-operative, prophylaxis clinical studies of hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery according to the time of the first injection of fondaparinux sodium after surgical closure was performed in patients who received fondaparinux sodium only post-operatively. In this analysis, the incidences of major bleeding were as follows: <4 hours was 4.8% (5/104), 4 to 6 hours was 2.3% (28/1,196), 6 to 8 hours was 1.9% (38/1,965). In all studies, the majority (≥75%) of the major bleeding events occurred during the first 4 days after surgery.

Abdominal Surgery: In a randomized study of patients undergoing abdominal surgery, fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg once daily (n = 1,433) was compared with dalteparin 5,000 IU once daily (n = 1,425). Bleeding rates are shown in Table 3.

Table 3. Bleeding in the Abdominal Surgery Study

 Fondaparinux Sodium2.5 mg SC
once daily
Dalteparin Sodium 5,000 IU SC
once daily
N = 1,433N = 1,425
Major bleedinga49 (3.4%)34 (2.4%)
Fatal bleeding 2 (0.1%)2 (0.1%)
Non-fatal bleeding at critical site 0 (0.0%)0 (0.0%)
Other non-fatal major bleeding Surgical site Non-surgical site 38 (2.7%) 9 (0.6%)26 (1.8%) 6 (0.4%)
Minor bleedingb31 (2.2%)23 (1.6%)

a Major bleeding was defined as bleeding that was (1) fatal, (2) bleeding at the surgical site leading to intervention, (3) non-surgical bleeding at a critical site (e.g. intracranial, retroperitoneal, intraocular, pericardial, spinal, or into adrenal gland), or leading to an intervention, and/or with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2.

b Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

The rates of major bleeding according to the time interval following the first fondaparinux sodium injection were as follows: <6 hours was 3.4% (9/263) and 6 to 8 hours was 2.9% (32/1112).

Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: The rates of bleeding events reported during the DVT and PE clinical trials with the fondaparinux sodium injection treatment regimen are provided in Table 4.

Table 4. Bleedinga in Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Studies

 Fondaparinux Sodium
N = 2,294
Enoxaparin Sodium  
N = 1,101
HeparinaPTT adjusted IV
N = 1,092
Major bleeding b28 (1.2%)13 (1.2%)12 (1.1%)
Fatal bleeding 3 (0.1%)0 (0.0%)1 (0.1%)
Non-fatal bleeding at a critical site 3 (0.1%)0 (0.0%)2 (0.2%)
Intracranial bleeding 3 (0.1%)0 (0.0%)1 (0.1%)
Retro-peritoneal bleeding 0 (0.0%)0 (0.0%)1 (0.1%)
Other clinically overt bleeding c22 (1.0%)13 (1.2%)10 (0.9%)
Minor bleeding d70 (3.1%)33 (3.0%)57 (5.2%)

a Bleeding rates are during the study drug treatment period (approximately 7 days). Patients were also treated with vitamin K antagonists initiated within 72 hours after the first study drug administration.

b Major bleeding was defined as clinically overt: –and/or contributing to death – and/or in a critical organ including intracranial, retroperitoneal, intraocular, spinal, pericardial, or adrenal gland – and/or associated with a fall in hemoglobin level ≥2 g/dL – and/or leading to a transfusion ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole blood.

c Clinically overt bleeding with a 2 g/dL fall in hemoglobin and/or leading to transfusion of PRBC or whole blood ≥2 units.

d Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

6.2 Local Reactions

Local irritation (injection site bleeding, rash, and pruritus) may occur following subcutaneous injection of fondaparinux sodium.

6.3 Elevations of Serum Aminotransferases

In the peri-operative prophylaxis randomized clinical trials of 7 ± 2 days, asymptomatic increases in aspartate (AST) and alanine (ALT) aminotransferase levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal were reported in 1.7% and 2.6% of patients, respectively, during treatment with fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg once daily versus 3.2% and 3.9% of patients, respectively, during treatment with enoxaparin sodium 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily enoxaparin sodium. These elevations are reversible and rarely associated with increases in bilirubin. In the extended prophylaxis clinical trial, no significant differences in AST and ALT levels between fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg and placebo-treated patients were observed.

In the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials, asymptomatic increases in AST and ALT levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal of the laboratory reference range were reported in 0.7% and 1.3% of patients, respectively, during treatment with fondaparinux sodium. In comparison, these increases were reported in 4.8% and 12.3% of patients, respectively, in the DVT treatment trial during treatment with enoxaparin sodium 1 mg/kg every 12 hours and in 2.9% and 8.7% of patients, respectively, in the PE treatment trial during treatment with aPTT adjusted heparin.

Since aminotransferase determinations are important in the differential diagnosis of myocardial infarction, liver disease, and pulmonary emboli, elevations that might be caused by drugs like fondaparinux sodium should be interpreted with caution.

6.4 Other Adverse Reactions

Other adverse reactions that occurred during treatment with fondaparinux sodium in clinical trials with patients undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery are provided in Table 5.

Table 5. Adverse Reactions Across Randomized, Controlled, Hip Fracture Surgery, Hip Replacement Surgery, and Knee Replacement Surgery Studies

   Adverse ReactionsPeri-Operative Prophylaxis (Day 1 to Day 7 ± 1 post-surgery)Extended Prophylaxis (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC once dailyEnoxaparin Sodiuma,bFondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC once dailyPlacebo SC once daily
 N = 3,616N = 3,956N = 327N = 329
Anemia 707 (19.6%)670 (16.9%)5 (1.5%)4 (1.2%)
Insomnia 179 (5.0%)214 (5.4%)3 (0.9%)1 (0.3%)
Wound drainage increased 161 (4.5%)184 (4.7%)2 (0.6%)0 (0.0%)
Hypokalemia 152 (4.2%)164 (4.1%)0 (0.0%)0 (0.0%)
Dizziness 131 (3.6%)165 (4.2%)2 (0.6%)0 (0.0%)
Purpura 128 (3.5%)137 (3.5%)0 (0.0%)0 (0.0%)
Hypotension 126 (3.5%)125 (3.2%)1 (0.3%)0 (0.0%)
Confusion 113 (3.1%)132 (3.3%)4 (1.2%)1 (0.3%)
Bullous eruptionc112 (3.1%)102 (2.6%)0 (0.0%)1 (0.3%)
Hematoma 103 (2.8%)109 (2.8%)7 (2.1%)1 (0.3%)
Post-operative hemorrhage 85 (2.4%)69 (1.7%)2 (0.6%)2 (0.6%)

a  Enoxaparin sodium dosing regimen: 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily.

b  Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.

c  Localized blister coded as bullous eruption.

Adverse reactions in the abdominal surgery study and in the VTE treatment trials generally occurred at lower rates than in the hip and knee surgery trials described above. The most common adverse reaction in the abdominal surgery trial was post-operative wound infection (4.9%), and the most common adverse reaction in the VTE treatment trials was epistaxis (1.3%).

6.5 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of fondaparinux sodium. 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.

Isolated occurrences of thrombocytopenia with thrombosis that manifested similar to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia have been reported in the postmarketing experience and isolated cases of elevated aPTT temporally associated with bleeding events have been reported following administration of fondaparinux sodium (with or without concomitant administration of other anticoagulants) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

In clinical studies performed with fondaparinux sodium, the concomitant use of oral anticoagulants (warfarin), platelet inhibitors (acetylsalicylic acid), NSAIDs (piroxicam), and digoxin did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of fondaparinux sodium. In addition, fondaparinux sodium neither influenced the pharmacodynamics of warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid, piroxicam, and digoxin, nor the pharmacokinetics of digoxin at steady state.

Agents that may enhance the risk of hemorrhage should be discontinued prior to initiation of therapy with fondaparinux sodium unless these agents are essential. If co-administration is necessary, monitor patients closely for hemorrhage. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.1).]

In an in vitro study in human liver microsomes, inhibition of CYP2A6 hydroxylation of coumarin by fondaparinux (200 micromolar i.e., 350 mg/L) was 17 to 28%. Inhibition of the other isozymes evaluated (CYPs 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4, and 3E1) was 0 to 16%. Since fondaparinux does not markedly inhibit CYP450s (CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, or CYP3A4) in vitro, fondaparinux sodium is not expected to significantly interact with other drugs in vivo by inhibition of metabolism mediated by these isozymes.

Since fondaparinux sodium does not bind significantly to plasma proteins other than ATIII, no drug interactions by protein-binding displacement are expected.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats at subcutaneous doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (about 32 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at subcutaneous doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (about 65 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to fondaparinux sodium. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, fondaparinux sodium should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

8.3 Nursing Mothers

Fondaparinux sodium was found to be excreted in the milk of lactating rats. However, it is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when fondaparinux sodium is administered to a nursing mother.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of fondaparinux sodium in pediatric patients have not been established. Because risk for bleeding during treatment with fondaparinux sodium is increased in adults who weigh <50 kg, bleeding may be a particular safety concern for use of fondaparinux sodium in the pediatric population [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

In clinical trials the efficacy of fondaparinux sodium in the elderly (65 years or older) was similar to that seen in patients younger than 65 years; however, serious adverse events increased with age. Exercise caution when using fondaparinux sodium in elderly patients, paying particular attention to dosing directions and concomitant medications (especially anti-platelet medication). [See Warnings and Precautions (5.1).]

Fondaparinux sodium is substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to fondaparinux sodium may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, assess renal function prior to fondaparinux sodium administration. [See Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.4).]

In the peri-operative hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery clinical trials with patients receiving fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg, serious adverse events increased with age for patients receiving fondaparinux sodium. The incidence of major bleeding in clinical trials of fondaparinux sodium by age is provided in Table 6.

Table 6. Incidence of Major Bleeding in Patients Treated With Fondaparinux Sodium by Age

 Age
<65 years% (n/N)65 to 74 years% (n/N)75 years% (n/N)
Orthopedic surgerya Extended prophylaxis1.8% (23/1,253)1.9% (1/52)2.2% (24/1,111)1.4% (1/71)2.7% (33/1,277)2.9% (6/204)
Abdominal surgery3.0% (19/644)3.2% (16/507)5.0% (14/282)
DVT and PE treatment0.6% (7/1,151)1.6% (9/560)2.1% (12/583)

 a Includes hip fracture, hip replacement, and knee replacement surgery prophylaxis.

8.6 Renal Impairment

Patients with impaired renal function are at increased risk of bleeding due to reduced clearance of fondaparinux sodium [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Assess renal function periodically in patients receiving fondaparinux sodium. Discontinue fondaparinux sodium immediately in patients who develop severe renal impairment while on therapy. After discontinuation of fondaparinux sodium, its anticoagulant effects may persist for 2 to 4 days in patients with normal renal function (i.e., at least 3 to 5 half-lives). The anticoagulant effects of fondaparinux sodium may persist even longer in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4)].

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

Following a single, subcutaneous dose of 7.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Category B) compared to subjects with normal liver function, changes from baseline in aPTT, PT/INR, and antithrombin III were similar in the two groups. However, a higher incidence of hemorrhage was observed in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment than in normal subjects, especially mild hematomas at the blood sampling or injection site. The pharmacokinetics of fondaparinux have not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment. [See Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.4).]

10 OVERDOSAGE

There is no known antidote for fondaparinux sodium. Overdose of fondaparinux sodium may lead to hemorrhagic complications. Discontinue treatment and initiate appropriate therapy if bleeding complications associated with overdosage occur.

Data obtained in patients undergoing chronic intermittent hemodialysis suggest that clearance of fondaparinux sodium can increase by 20% during hemodialysis.

11 DESCRIPTION

Fondaparinux sodium injection is a sterile solution containing fondaparinux sodium. It is a synthetic and specific inhibitor of activated Factor X (Xa). Fondaparinux sodium is methyl O-2-deoxy-6-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-D-glucopyranuronosyl-(1→4)-O-2-deoxy-3,6-di-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-2-Osulfo-α-L-idopyranuronosyl-(1→4)-2-deoxy-6-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranoside, decasodium salt.

The molecular formula of fondaparinux sodium is C31H43N3Na10O49S8 and its molecular weight is 1728. The structural formula is provided below:

structure

Fondaparinux sodium is supplied as a sterile, preservative-free injectable solution for subcutaneous use.

Each single-dose, prefilled syringe of fondaparinux sodium, affixed with an active needle protection system, contains 2.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.5 mL, 5.0 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.4 mL, 7.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.6 mL, or 10.0 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.8 mL of an isotonic solution of sodium chloride, water for injection. Also contain hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide as pH adjusters. The final drug product is a clear and colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

The antithrombotic activity of fondaparinux sodium is the result of antithrombin III (ATIII)-mediated selective inhibition of Factor Xa. By selectively binding to ATIII, fondaparinux sodium potentiates (about 300 times) the innate neutralization of Factor Xa by ATIII. Neutralization of Factor Xa interrupts the blood coagulation cascade and thus inhibits thrombin formation and thrombus development.

Fondaparinux sodium does not inactivate thrombin (activated Factor II) and has no known effect on platelet function. At the recommended dose, fondaparinux sodium does not affect fibrinolytic activity or bleeding time.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Anti-Xa Activity: The pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics of fondaparinux sodium are derived from fondaparinux plasma concentrations quantified via anti-Factor Xa activity. Only fondaparinux can be used to calibrate the anti-Xa assay. (The international standards of heparin or LMWH are not appropriate for this use.) As a result, the activity of fondaparinux sodium is expressed as milligrams (mg) of the fondaparinux calibrator. The anti-Xa activity of the drug increases with increasing drug concentration, reaching maximum values in approximately three hours.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Fondaparinux sodium administered by subcutaneous injection is rapidly and completely absorbed (absolute bioavailability is 100%). Following a single subcutaneous dose of fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg in young male subjects, Cmax of 0.34 mg/L is reached in approximately 2 hours. In patients undergoing treatment with fondaparinux sodium injection 2.5 mg, once daily, the peak steady-state plasma concentration is, on average, 0.39 to 0.50 mg/L and is reached approximately 3 hours post-dose. In these patients, the minimum steady-state plasma concentration is 0.14 to 0.19 mg/L. In patients with symptomatic deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism undergoing treatment with fondaparinux sodium injection 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50 to 100 kg), and 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) once daily, the body-weight-adjusted doses provide similar mean steady-state peaks and minimum plasma concentrations across all body weight categories. The mean peak steady-state plasma concentration is in the range of 1.20 to 1.26 mg/L. In these patients, the mean minimum steady-state plasma concentration is in the range of 0.46 to 0.62 mg/L.

Distribution: In healthy adults, intravenously or subcutaneously administered fondaparinux sodium distributes mainly in blood and only to a minor extent in extravascular fluid as evidenced by steady state and non-steady state apparent volume of distribution of 7 to 11 L. Similar fondaparinux distribution occurs in patients undergoing elective hip surgery or hip fracture surgery. In vitro, fondaparinux sodium is highly (at least 94%) and specifically bound to antithrombin III (ATIII) and does not bind significantly to other plasma proteins (including platelet Factor 4 [PF4]) or red blood cells.

Metabolism: In vivo metabolism of fondaparinux has not been investigated since the majority of the administered dose is eliminated unchanged in urine in individuals with normal kidney function.

Elimination: In individuals with normal kidney function, fondaparinux is eliminated in urine mainly as unchanged drug. In healthy individuals up to 75 years of age, up to 77% of a single subcutaneous or intravenous fondaparinux dose is eliminated in urine as unchanged drug in 72 hours. The elimination half-life is 17 to 21 hours.

12.4 Special Populations

Renal Impairment: Fondaparinux elimination is prolonged in patients with renal impairment since the major route of elimination is urinary excretion of unchanged drug. In patients undergoing prophylaxis following elective hip surgery or hip fracture surgery, the total clearance of fondaparinux is approximately 25% lower in patients with mild renal impairment (CrCl 50 to 80 mL/min), approximately 40% lower in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min), and approximately 55% lower in patients with severe renal impairment (<30 mL/min) compared to patients with normal renal function. A similar relationship between fondaparinux clearance and extent of renal impairment was observed in DVT treatment patients. [SeeContraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2).]

Hepatic Impairment: Following a single, subcutaneous dose of 7.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Category B), Cmax and AUC were decreased by 22% and 39%, respectively, compared to subjects with normal liver function. The changes from baseline in pharmacodynamic parameters, such as aPTT, PT/INR, and antithrombin III, were similar in normal subjects and in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. Based on these data, no dosage adjustment is recommended in these patients. However, a higher incidence of hemorrhage was observed in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment than in normal subjects [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]. The pharmacokinetics of fondaparinux have not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment. [See Dosage and Administration (2.4).]

Pediatric: The pharmacokinetics of fondaparinux have not been investigated in pediatric patients. [SeeContraindications(4), Warnings and Precautions (5.3), and Pediatric Use (8.4).]

Geriatric: Fondaparinux elimination is prolonged in patients older than 75 years. In studies evaluating fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg prophylaxis in hip fracture surgery or elective hip surgery, the total clearance of fondaparinux was approximately 25% lower in patients older than 75 years as compared to patients younger than 65 years. A similar relationship between fondaparinux clearance and age was observed in DVT treatment patients. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.5).]

Patients Weighing Less Than 50 kg: Total clearance of fondaparinux sodium is decreased by approximately 30% in patients weighing less than 50 kg [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Contraindications (4)].

Gender: The pharmacokinetic properties of fondaparinux sodium are not significantly affected by gender.

Race: Pharmacokinetic differences due to race have not been studied prospectively. However, studies performed in Asian (Japanese) healthy subjects did not reveal a different pharmacokinetic profile compared to Caucasian healthy subjects. Similarly, no plasma clearance differences were observed between black and Caucasian patients undergoing orthopedic surgery.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

No long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of fondaparinux sodium.

Fondaparinux sodium was not genotoxic in the Ames test, the mouse lymphoma cell (L5178Y/TK+/-) forward mutation test, the human lymphocyte chromosome aberration test, the rat hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) test, or the rat micronucleus test.

At subcutaneous doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (about 32 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area), fondaparinux sodium was found to have no effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg SC once daily was compared to enoxaparin sodium 40 mg SC once daily, which is not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. A total of 1,711 patients were randomized and 1,673 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 17 to 101 years (mean age 77 years) with 25% men and 75% women. Patients were 99% Caucasian, 1% other races. Patients with multiple traumas affecting more than one organ system, serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. Fondaparinux sodium was initiated after surgery in 88% of patients (mean 6 hours) and enoxaparin sodium was initiated after surgery in 74% of patients (mean 18 hours). For both drugs, treatment was continued for 7 ± 2 days. The primary efficacy endpoint, venous thromboembolism (VTE), was a composite of documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or documented symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) reported up to Day 11. The efficacy data are provided in Table 7 and demonstrate that under the conditions of the trial fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 8.3% compared with a VTE rate of 19.1% for enoxaparin sodium for a relative risk reduction of 56% (95% CI: 39%, 70%; P <0.001). Major bleeding episodes occurred in 2.2% of patients receiving fondaparinux sodium and 2.3% of enoxaparin sodium patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Table 7. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium in the Peri-operative Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

  EndpointPeri-operative Prophylaxis (Day 1 to Day 7 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC once dailyEnoxaparin Sodium 40 mg SC once daily
 n/Na% (95% CI)n/Na% (95% CI)
VTE 52/6268.3%b (6.3, 10.8)119/62419.1% (16.1, 22.4)
All DVT 49/6247.9%b (5.9, 10.2)117/62318.8% (15.8, 22.1)
Proximal DVT 6/6500.9%b (0.3, 2.0)28/6464.3% (2.9, 6.2)
Symptomatic PE 3/8310.4%c (0.1, 1.1)3/8400.4% (0.1, 1.0)

a N = all evaluable hip fracture surgery patients. Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery (i.e., hip fracture surgery of the upper third of the femur), with an adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 11.

b P value versus enoxaparin sodium <0.001.

c P value versus enoxaparin sodium: NS.

14.2 Extended Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

In a noncomparative, unblinded manner, 737 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery were initially treated during the peri-operative period with fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg once daily for 7 ± 1 days. Eighty-one (81) of the 737 patients were not eligible for randomization into the 3-week double-blind period. Three hundred twenty-six (326) patients and 330 patients were randomized to receive fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg once daily or placebo, respectively, in or out of the hospital for 21 ± 2 days. Patients ranged in age from 23 to 96 years (mean age 75 years) and were 29% men and 71% women. Patients were 99% Caucasian and 1% other races. Patients with multiple traumas affecting more than one organ system or serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L) were excluded from the trial. The primary efficacy endpoint, venous thromboembolism (VTE), was a composite of documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or documented symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) reported for up to 24 days following randomization. The efficacy data are provided in Table 8 and demonstrate that extended prophylaxis with fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 1.4% compared with a VTE rate of 35.0% for placebo for a relative risk reduction of 95.9% (95% CI = [98.7; 87.1], P <0.0001). Major bleeding rates during the 3-week extended prophylaxis period for fondaparinux sodium occurred in 2.4% of patients receiving fondaparinux sodium and 0.6% of placebo-treated patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Table 8. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium Injection in the Extended Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery

  EndpointExtended Prophylaxis (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Sodium2.5 mg SC once dailyPlacebo SC once daily
 n/Na% (95% CI)n/Na% (95% CI)
VTE 3/2081.4%b (0.3, 4.2)77/22035.0% (28.7, 41.7)
All DVT 3/2081.4%b (0.3, 4.2)74/21833.9% (27.7, 40.6)
Proximal DVT 2/2210.9%b (0.1, 3.2)35/22215.8% (11.2, 21.2)
Symptomatic VTE (all) 1/3260.3%c (0.0, 1.7)9/3302.7% (1.3, 5.1)
Symptomatic PE 0/3260.0%d (0.0, 1.1)3/3300.9% (0.2, 2.6)

a N = all randomized evaluable hip fracture surgery patients. Evaluable patients were those who were treated in the post-randomization period, with an adequate efficacy assessment for up to 24 days following randomization.

b P value versus placebo <0.001

c P value versus placebo = 0.021.

d P value versus placebo = NS.

14.3 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Replacement Surgery

In 2 randomized, double-blind, clinical trials in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery, fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg SC once daily was compared to either enoxaparin sodium 30 mg SC every 12 hours (Study 1) or to enoxaparin sodium 40 mg SC once a day (Study 2). In Study 1, a total of 2,275 patients were randomized and 2,257 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 18 to 92 years (mean age 65 years) with 48% men and 52% women. Patients were 94% Caucasian, 4% black, <1% Asian, and 2% others. In Study 2, a total of 2,309 patients were randomized and 2,273 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 24 to 97 years (mean age 65 years) with 42% men and 58% women. Patients were 99% Caucasian, and 1% other races. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from both trials. In Study 1, fondaparinux sodium was initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.5 hours) after surgery in 92% of patients and enoxaparin sodium was initiated 12 to 24 hours (mean 20.25 hours) after surgery in 97% of patients. In Study 2, fondaparinux sodium was initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.25 hours) after surgery in 86% of patients and enoxaparin sodium was initiated 12 hours before surgery in 78% of patients. The first post-operative enoxaparin sodium dose was given within 12 hours after surgery in 60% of patients and 12 to 24 hours after surgery in 35% of patients with a mean of 13 hours. For both studies, both study treatments were continued for 7 ± 2 days. The efficacy data are provided in Table 9. Under the conditions of Study 1, fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 6.1% compared with a VTE rate of 8.3% for enoxaparin sodium for a relative risk reduction of 26% (95% CI: -11%, 53%; P = NS). Under the  conditions of Study 2, fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 4.1% compared with a VTE rate of 9.2% for enoxaparin sodium for a relative risk reduction of 56% (95% CI: 33%, 73%; P <0.001). For the 2 studies combined, the major bleeding episodes occurred in 3.0% of patients receiving fondaparinux sodium and 2.1% of enoxaparin sodium patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Table 9. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium in the Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Replacement Surgery

Endpoint Study 1 n/Na% (95% CI)Study 2 n/Na% (95% CI)
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC
once daily
Enoxaparin Sodium 30 mg SC every
12 hr
Fondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC
once daily
Enoxaparin Sodium 40 mg SC
once daily
VTEb48/787
6.1%c (4.5, 8.0)
66/797
8.3% (6.5, 10.4)
37/908
4.1%e (2.9, 5.6)
85/919
9.2% (7.5, 11.3)
All DVT 44/784
5.6%d (4.1, 7.5)
65/796
8.2% (6.4, 10.3)
36/908
4.0%e (2.8, 5.4)
83/918
9.0% (7.3, 11.1)
Proximal DVT 14/816
1.7%c (0.9, 2.9)
10/830
1.2% (0.6, 2.2)
6/922
0.7%f (0.2, 1.4)
23/927
2.5% (1.6, 3.7)
Symptomatic PE 5/1,126 
0.4%c (0.1, 1.0)
1/1,128 
0.1% (0.0, 0.5)
2/1,129
0.2%c (0.0, 0.6)
2/1,123
0.2% (0.0, 0.6)

a N = all evaluable hip replacement surgery patients. Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery (i.e., hip replacement surgery), with an adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 11.

b VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE reported up to Day 11.

c P value versus enoxaparin sodium: NS.

d P value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 1: <0.05.

e P value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 2: <0.001.

f P value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 2: <0.01.

14.4 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Knee Replacement Surgery

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery (i.e., surgery requiring resection of the distal end of the femur or proximal end of the tibia), fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg SC once daily was compared to enoxaparin sodium 30 mg SC every 12 hours. A total of 1,049 patients were randomized and 1,034 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 19 to 94 years (mean age 68 years) with 41% men and 59% women. Patients were 88% Caucasian, 8% black, <1% Asian, and 3% others. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. Fondaparinux sodium was initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.25 hours) after surgery in 94% of patients, and enoxaparin sodium was initiated 12 to 24 hours (mean 21 hours) after surgery in 96% of patients. For both drugs, treatment was continued for 7 ± 2 days. The efficacy data are provided in Table 10 and demonstrate that under the conditions of the trial, fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 12.5% compared with a VTE rate of 27.8% for enoxaparin sodium for a relative risk reduction of 55% (95% CI: 36%, 70%; P <0.001). Major bleeding episodes occurred in 2.1% of patients receiving fondaparinux sodium and 0.2% of enoxaparin sodium patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Table 10. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium in the Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Knee Replacement Surgery

EndpointFondaparinux Sodium2.5 mg SC once dailyEnoxaparin Sodium 30 mg SC every 12 hours
 n/Na% (95% CI)n/Na% (95% CI)
VTEb45/36112.5%c (9.2, 16.3)101/36327.8% (23.3, 32.7)
All DVT45/36112.5%c (9.2, 16.3)98/36127.1% (22.6, 32.0)
Proximal DVT 9/3682.4%d (1.1, 4.6)20/3725.4% (3.3, 8.2)
Symptomatic PE 1/5170.2%d (0.0, 1.1)4/5170.8% (0.2, 2.0)

aN = all evaluable knee replacement surgery patients. Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery (i.e., knee replacement surgery), with an  adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 11.

b VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE reported up to Day 11.

c P value versus enoxaparin sodium <0.001. d P value versus enoxaparin sodium: NS

14.5 Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Abdominal Surgery in Patients at Risk for Thromboembolic Complications

Abdominal surgery patients at risk included the following: Those undergoing surgery under general anesthesia lasting longer than 45 minutes who are older than 60 years with or without additional risk factors; and those undergoing surgery under general anesthesia lasting longer than 45 minutes who are older than 40 years with additional risk factors. Risk factors included neoplastic disease, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammatory bowel disease, history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), or congestive heart failure.

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg SC once daily started postoperatively was compared to dalteparin sodium 5,000 IU SC once daily, with one 2,500 IU SC preoperative injection and a 2,500 IU SC first postoperative injection. A total of 2,927 patients were randomized and 2,858 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 17 to 93 years (mean age 65 years) with 55% men and 45% women. Patients were 97% Caucasian, 1% black, 1% Asian, and 1% others. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. Sixty-nine percent (69%) of study patients underwent cancer-related abdominal surgery. Study treatment was continued for 7 ± 2 days. The efficacy data are provided in Table 11 and demonstrate that prophylaxis with fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 4.6% compared with a VTE rate of 6.1% for dalteparin sodium (P = NS).

Table 11. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium In Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Abdominal Surgery

EndpointFondaparinux Sodium 2.5 mg SC once dailyDalteparin Sodium 5,000 IU SC once daily
 n/Na% (95% CI)n/Na% (95% CI)
VTEb47/1,0274.6%c (3.4, 6.0)62/1,0216.1% (4.7, 7.7)
All DVT43/1,0244.2% (3.1, 5.6)59/1,0185.8% (4.4, 7.4)
Proximal DVT5/1,0760.5% (0.2, 1.1)5/1,0770.5% (0.2, 1.1)
Symptomatic VTE6/1,4650.4% (0.2, 0.9)5/1,4620.3% (0.1, 0.8)

a N = all evaluable abdominal surgery patients. Evaluable patients were those who were randomized and had an adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 10; non-treated patients and patients who did not undergo surgery did not get a VTE assessment.

b VTE was a composite of venogram positive DVT, symptomatic DVT, non-fatal PE and/or fatal PE reported up to Day 10.

c P value versus dalteparin sodium: NS.

14.6 Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of acute symptomatic DVT without PE, fondaparinux sodium 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50 to 100 kg), or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) SC once daily (fondaparinux sodium treatment regimen) was compared to enoxaparin sodium 1 mg/kg SC every 12 hours. Almost all patients started study treatment in hospital. Approximately 30% of patients in both groups were discharged home from the hospital while receiving study treatment. A total of 2,205 patients were randomized and 2,192 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 18 to 95 years (mean age 61 years) with 53% men and 47% women. Patients were 97% Caucasian, 2% black, and 1% other races. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. For both groups, treatment continued for at least 5 days with a treatment duration range of 7 ± 2 days, and both treatment groups received vitamin K antagonist therapy initiated within 72 hours after the first study drug administration and continued for 90 ± 7 days, with regular dose adjustments to achieve an INR of 2 to 3. The primary efficacy endpoint was confirmed, symptomatic, recurrent VTE reported up to Day 97. The efficacy data are provided in Table 12.

Table 12. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium in the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (All Randomized)

EndpointFondaparinux Sodium5, 7.5, or 10 mg SC once daily
N = 1,098
Enoxaparin Sodium1 mg/kg SC every 12 hours
N = 1,107
 n% (95% CI)n% (95% CI)
Total VTEa433.9% (2.8, 5.2)454.1% (3.0, 5.4)
DVT only181.6% (1.0, 2.6)282.5% (1.7, 3.6)
Non-fatal PE201.8% (1.1, 2.8)121.1% (0.6, 1.9)
Fatal PE50.5% (0.1, 1.1)50.5% (0.1, 1.1)

a VTE was a composite of symptomatic recurrent non-fatal VTE or fatal PE reported up to Day 97. The 95% confidence interval for the treatment difference for total VTE was: (-1.8% to 1.5%).

During the initial treatment period, 18 (1.6%) of patients treated with fondaparinux sodium and 10 (0.9%) of patients treated with enoxaparin sodium had a VTE endpoint (95% CI for the treatment difference [fondaparinux sodium-enoxaparin sodium] for VTE rates: -0.2%; 1.7%).

14.7 Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

In a randomized, open-label, clinical trial in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of acute symptomatic PE, with or without DVT, fondaparinux sodium 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50 to 100 kg), or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) SC once daily (fondaparinux sodium treatment regimen) was compared to heparin IV bolus (5,000 USP units) followed by a continuous IV infusion adjusted to maintain 1.5 to 2.5 times aPTT control value. Patients with a PE requiring thrombolysis or surgical thrombectomy were excluded from the trial. All patients started study treatment in hospital. Approximately 15% of patients were discharged home from the hospital while receiving fondaparinux sodium therapy. A total of 2,213 patients were randomized and 2,184 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 18 to 97 years (mean age 62 years) with 44% men and 56% women. Patients were 94% Caucasian, 5% black, and 1% other races. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 micromol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. For both groups, treatment continued for at least 5 days with a treatment duration range 7 ± 2 days, and both treatment groups received vitamin K antagonist therapy initiated within 72 hours after the first study drug administration and continued for 90 ± 7 days, with regular dose adjustments to achieve an INR of 2 to 3. The primary efficacy endpoint was confirmed, symptomatic, recurrent VTE reported up to Day 97. The efficacy data are provided in Table 13.

Table 13. Efficacy of Fondaparinux Sodium in the Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism (All Randomized)

EndpointFondaparinux Sodium5, 7.5, or 10 mg SC once dailyN = 1,103HeparinaPTT adjusted IVN = 1,110
 n% (95% CI)n% (95% CI)
Total VTEa423.8% (2.8, 5.1)565.0% (3.8, 6.5)
DVT only121.1% (0.6, 1.9)171.5% (0.9, 2.4)
Non-fatal PE141.3% (0.7, 2.1)242.2% (1.4, 3.2)
Fatal PE161.5% (0.8, 2.3)151.4% (0.8, 2.2)

a VTE was a composite of symptomatic recurrent non-fatal VTE or fatal PE reported up to Day 97. The 95% confidence interval for the treatment difference for total VTE was: (-3.0% to 0.5%).

During the initial treatment period, 12 (1.1%) of patients treated with fondaparinux sodium and 19 (1.7%) of patients treated with heparin had a VTE endpoint (95% CI for the treatment difference [fondaparinux sodium-heparin] for VTE rates: -1.6%; 0.4%).

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

Fondaparinux sodium injection is available in the following strengths and package sizes: 

2.5 mg fondaparinux sodium in 0.5 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch needle with a blue plunger rod.

2 Single Unit Syringes                                                NDC 55111-678-0210

Single Unit Syringes                                              NDC 55111-678-10

5 mg fondaparinux sodium in 0.4 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch needle with an orange plunger rod.

2 Single Unit Syringes                                                NDC 55111-679-0210

Single Unit Syringes                                              NDC 55111-679-10

7.5 mg fondaparinux sodium in 0.6 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch needle with a magenta plunger rod.

2 Single Unit Syringes                                                NDC 55111-680-0210

Single Unit Syringes                                              NDC 55111-680-10

10 mg fondaparinux sodium in 0.8 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch needle with a violet plunger rod.

2 Single Unit Syringes                                                NDC 55111-681-0210

Single Unit Syringes                                              NDC 55111-681-10

Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling (17.2)

17.1 Patient Advice

If the patients have had neuraxial anesthesia or spinal puncture, and particularly, if they are taking concomitant NSAIDS, platelet inhibitors, or other anticoagulants, they should be informed to watch for signs and symptoms of spinal or epidural hematomas, such as tingling, numbness (especially in the lower limbs) and muscular weakness. If any of these symptoms occur, the patients should contact his or her physician immediately.

The use of aspirin and other NSAIDS may enhance the risk of hemorrhage. Their use should be discontinued prior to fondaparinux sodium therapy whenever possible; if co-administration is essential, the patient’s clinical and laboratory status should be closely monitored. [See Drug Interactions (7).]

If patients must self-administer fondaparinux sodium (e.g., if fondaparinux sodium is used at home), they should be advised of the following:

  • Fondaparinux sodium should be given by subcutaneous injection. Patients must be instructed in the proper technique for administration
  • As with all anticoagulants, the most important risk with fondaparinux sodium administration is bleeding. Patients should be counseled on signs and symptoms of possible bleeding.
  • It may take them longer than usual to stop bleeding.
  • They may bruise and/or bleed more easily when they are treated with fondaparinux sodium. They should report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of thrombocytopenia (such as a rash of dark red spots under the skin) to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.4)].
  • To tell their physicians and dentists they are taking fondaparinux sodium and/or any other product known to affect bleeding before any surgery is scheduled and before any new drug is taken  [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
  • To tell their physicians and dentists of all medications they are taking, including those obtained without a prescription, such as aspirin or other NSAIDs. [See Drug Interactions (7)].

Keep out of the reach of children.

17.2 FDA-Approved Patient Labeling

Patient labeling is provided as a tear-off leaflet at the end of this full prescribing information.

Rx Only

Manufactured by:

Gland Pharma Limited

D.P. Pally – 500 043 INDIA   

Manufactured for:

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited

Bachepalli – 502 325 INDIA

Issued: 0410    

Patient Information Sheet

Fondaparinux Sodium Injection 

Read the Patient Information that comes with fondaparinux sodium injection before you start taking it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. If you have any questions about fondaparinux sodium injection, ask your doctor or pharmacist.  

What is the most important information I should know about fondaparinux sodium injection?

Certain medical procedures involving the spine, such as an epidural (pain medication given through the spine), spinal anesthesia, or spinal puncture, may be used during your hospital stay. If you need any of these procedures while receiving fondaparinux sodium injection, heparins, heparinoids, or low-molecular weight heparins (anticoagulants), you may be at risk for having a blood clot (hematoma) in or around your spine. This type of clot is very serious, as it can cause long-term and possibly permanent paralysis (loss of the ability to move).  

If you receive fondaparinux sodium injection after an epidural or spinal anesthetic is used, as the anesthesia for your surgery, your doctor will watch you closely for problems with feeling (sensation) and being able to move. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of these signs and symptoms, especially in your legs and feet:

  • tingling
  • numbness
  • muscle weakness  

Because the risk of bleeding may be higher, tell your doctor before taking fondaparinux sodium if you:

  • are also taking certain other medicines that affect blood clotting such as aspirin, an NSAID (for example, ibuprofen or naproxen), clopidogrel, or warfarin sodium.
  • have bleeding problems.
  • had problems in the past with pain medication given through the spine.
  • have had surgery to your spine.
  • have a spinal deformity.

What is fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

Fondaparinux sodium injection is a prescription medicine that “thins your blood” (also known as an anticoagulant). fondaparinux sodium injection is used to:

  • help prevent blood clots from forming in patients who have had certain surgeries of the hip, knee, or the stomach area (abdominal surgery)
  • treat people who have blood clots in their legs or blood clots that travel to their lungs

It is not known if fondaparinux sodium injection is safe and effective for use in children younger than 18 years of age.

Who should not take fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

Do not take fondaparinux sodium injection if you have:

  • certain kidney problems
  • active bleeding problems
  • an infection in your heart
  • low platelet counts and if you test positive for a certain antibody while you are takingfondaparinux sodium injection.  

People who weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kg) should not use fondaparinux sodium injection to prevent blood clots from forming after surgery.

What should I tell my doctor before taking fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have had any bleeding problems (such as stomach ulcers)
  • have had a stroke
  • have had recent surgeries, including eye surgery
  • have diabetic eye disease
  • have kidney problems
  • have uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • are pregnant. It is not known if fondaparinux sodium injection will harm your unborn baby. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about the best way for you to prevent or treat blood clots.
  • are breast-feeding. It is not known if fondaparinux sodium injection passes into breast milk.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take

including prescriptions and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines can increase your risk of bleeding. Especially tell your doctor if you take:

  • aspirinNSAIDS (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
  • other blood thinner medicines, such as clopidogrel or warfarin

See What is the most important information I should know about fondaparinux sodium injection? Do not start taking any new medicines without first talking to your doctor.  

Know the medicines you take. Tell all your doctors and dentist that you take fondaparinux sodium injection, especially if you need to have any kind of surgery or a dental procedure. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to all your doctors and pharmacist before you start a new medicine.

How should I take fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

  • Take fondaparinux sodium injection exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Fondaparinux sodium is given by injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection). See “How should I give an injection of fondaparinux sodium ?
  • If your doctor tells you that you may give yourself injections of fondaparinux sodium at home, you will be shown how to give the injections first before you do them on your own.
  • Tell your doctor if you have any bleeding or bruising while taking fondaparinux sodium injection.
  • If you miss a dose of fondaparinux sodium injection, take your dose as soon as you remember. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
  • If you take too much fondaparinux sodium injection, call your doctor right away.
  • Do not use fondaparinux sodium injection if:
    • the solution appears discolored (the solution should normally appear clear),
    • you see any particles in the solution, or
    • the syringe is damaged.

What are possible side effects of fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

Fondaparinux sodium can cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about fondaparinux sodium injection ?

Severe bleeding Certain conditions can increase your risk for severe bleeding, including:

-some bleeding problems

-some gastrointestinal problems including ulcers

-some types of strokes

-uncontrolled high blood pressure

-diabetic eye disease

-soon after brain, spine, or eye surgery

  • Certain kidney problems can also increase your risk of bleeding with fondaparinux sodium injection. Your doctor may check your kidney function while you are taking fondaparinux sodium injection.
  • People undergoing surgery who weigh less than 110 pounds. See Who should not take fondaparinux sodium injection?
  • Low blood platelets. Low blood platelets can happen when you take fondaparinux sodium injection. Platelets are blood cells that help your blood to clot normally. Your doctor may check your platelet counts while you take fondaparinux sodium injection. You may bruise or bleed more easily while taking fondaparinux sodium injection, and it may take longer than usual for bleeding to stop.

Tell your doctor if you have any of these signs or symptoms of bleeding while taking fondaparinux sodium injection. -any bleeding -bruising -rash of dark red spots under the skin  

Other side effects include:

  • Injection site reactions. Bleeding, rash, and itching can happen at the place where you inject fondaparinux sodium.
  • Low red blood cell counts (anemia). Your doctor may check your red blood cell counts while you are taking fondaparinux sodium injection.
  • Increased liver enzyme test results. Your doctor may check your liver function while you are taking fondaparinux sodium injection.
  • Sleep problems (insomnia).

These are not all the possible side effects of fondaparinux sodium injection. Call your doctor if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store fondaparinux sodium injection?

Store fondaparinux sodium injection at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. 

Safely, throw away fondaparinux sodium injection that is out of date or no longer needed.

Keep fondaparinux sodium injection and all medicines out of the reach of children.  

General information about fondaparinux sodium injection

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those described in patient information leaflets. Do not use fondaparinux sodium injection for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give fondaparinux sodium injection to other people. It may harm them.  

This leaflet summarizes the most important information about fondaparinux sodium injection. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about fondaparinux sodium injection that is written for healthcare professionals. For more information about fondaparinux sodium injection, call 1-888-375-3784.  

What are the ingredients in fondaparinux sodiuminjection?

Active Ingredient: fondaparinux sodium

Inactive Ingredients: sodium chloride and water for injection. Also contain hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide as pH adjusters. 

How should I give an injection of fondaparinux sodium?

Fondaparinux sodium is injected into a skin fold of the lower stomach area (abdomen). Do not inject fondaparinux sodium into muscle. Usually a doctor or nurse will give this injection to you. In some cases you may be taught how to do this yourself. The following instructions are specific to the Preventis® injection system and may differ from the directions for other injection systems. Be sure that you read, understand, and follow the step-by-step instructions in this leaflet, on how to give yourself an injection of fondaparinux sodium. 

instructions1 

instructions2

instrucn2cond

To reorder additional Patient Information Sheets contact Dr. Reddy’s Customer Service at 1-866-733-3952.

Rx Only

Manufactured by:

Gland Pharma Limited

D.P. Pally – 500 043 INDIA 

Manufactured for:

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited

Bachepalli – 502 325 INDIA

Issued: 0410

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL SECTION

2.5 mg/0.5 mL Labels:

2's Carton Label:

25mg2sCarton

5 mg/0.4 mL Labels:

2's Carton Label:

5mg2sCarton

7.5 mg/0.6 mL Labels:

2's Carton Label:

75mg2sCarton

10 mg/0.8 mL Labels:

2's Carton Label:

10mg2sCarton


FONDAPARINUX SODIUM 
fondaparinux sodium injection
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:55111-678
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
fondaparinux sodium (fondaparinux) fondaparinux sodium2.5 mg  in 0.5 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
sodium chloride 
hydrochloric acid 
sodium hydroxide 
Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains    
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
1NDC:55111-678-022 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-678-11)
1NDC:55111-678-110.5 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-678-02)
2NDC:55111-678-1010 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-678-11)
2NDC:55111-678-110.5 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-678-10)

Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA09131607/14/2011

FONDAPARINUX SODIUM 
fondaparinux sodium injection
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:55111-679
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
fondaparinux sodium (fondaparinux) fondaparinux sodium5 mg  in 4 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
sodium chloride 
hydrochloric acid 
sodium hydroxide 
Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains    
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
1NDC:55111-679-022 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-679-11)
1NDC:55111-679-110.4 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-679-02)
2NDC:55111-679-1010 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-679-11)
2NDC:55111-679-110.4 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-679-10)

Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA09131607/14/2011

FONDAPARINUX SODIUM 
fondaparinux sodium injection
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:55111-680
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
fondaparinux sodium (fondaparinux) fondaparinux sodium7.5 mg  in 0.6 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
sodium chloride 
hydrochloric acid 
sodium hydroxide 
Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains    
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
1NDC:55111-680-022 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-680-11)
1NDC:55111-680-110.6 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-680-02)
2NDC:55111-680-1010 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-680-11)
2NDC:55111-680-110.6 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-680-10)

Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA09131607/14/2011

FONDAPARINUX SODIUM 
fondaparinux sodium injection
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:55111-681
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
fondaparinux sodium (fondaparinux) fondaparinux sodium10 mg  in 0.8 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
sodium chloride 
hydrochloric acid 
sodium hydroxide 
Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains    
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
1NDC:55111-681-022 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-681-11)
1NDC:55111-681-110.8 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-681-02)
2NDC:55111-681-1010 SYRINGE ( SYRINGE) in 1 CARTONcontains a SYRINGE (55111-681-11)
2NDC:55111-681-110.8 mL in 1 SYRINGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (55111-681-10)

Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA09131607/14/2011

Labeler - Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited (862179079)
Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Gland Pharma Limited918601238manufacture, analysis

Revised: 04/2010 Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited