2.1 Recommended Dosage

Administer oxaliplatin injection in combination with fluorouracil and leucovorin every 2 weeks.

• For adjuvant treatment, continue treatment for up to 12 cycles or unacceptable toxicity.
• For advanced colorectal cancer, continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Day 1
Administer oxaliplatin injection 85 mg/m2 as an intravenous infusion over 120 minutes and leucovorin 200 mg/m2 as an intravenous infusion over 120 minutes at the same time in separate bags, followed by fluorouracil 400 mg/m2 as intravenous bolus over 2 to 4 minutes, followed by fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 as a 22-hour continuous infusion.
Day 2
Administer leucovorin 200 mg/m2 as an intravenous infusion over 120 minutes, followed by fluorouracil 400 mg/m2 as intravenous bolus over 2 to 4 minutes, followed by fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 as a 22-hour continuous infusion.

Refer to the prescribing information for fluorouracil and leucovorin for additional information.

2.2 Dose Modifications for Adverse Reactions

Prolongation of infusion time for oxaliplatin injection from 2 hours to 6 hours may mitigate acute toxicities, such as non-life-threatening infusion-related reactions.
Permanently discontinue oxaliplatin injection for any of the following:

• Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
• Confirmed interstitial lung disease or pulmonary fibrosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
• Rhabdomyolysis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]

Refer to the fluorouracil and leucovorin prescribing information for dosage modifications for adverse reactions.

Dosage Modifications for Adjuvant Treatment

Dosage modifications for adverse reactions for adjuvant treatment are presented in Table 1.

Table 1: Dosage Modifications for Adjuvant Treatment in Patients with Stage III Colon Cancer

Dosage Modifications for Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Dosage modifications for adverse reactions for advanced colorectal cancer are presented in Table 2.

Table 2: Dosage Modifications for Advanced Colorectal Cancer

2.3 Dose Modifications for Patients with Renal Impairment

In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CLcr] less than 30 mL/min, calculated by the Cockcroft-Gault equation), reduce the oxaliplatin injection dose to 65 mg/m2[see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.4 Preparation and Administration

• Oxaliplatin is a cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1
• Do not freeze.
• Protect the concentrated solution from light.
• Dilute concentrated solution with 250 to 500 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. Do not dilute with sodium chloride solution or other chloride-containing solutions.
• Store diluted solution for no more than 6 hours at room temperature (20°C to 25°C [68°F to 77°F]) or 24 hours under refrigeration (2°C to 8°C [36°F to 46°F]). Protection from light is not required.
• Visually inspect for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration and discard if present.
• Do not mix oxaliplatin injection or administer oxaliplatin injection through the same infusion line concurrently with alkaline medications or media (such as basic solutions of fluorouracil).
• Flush the infusion line with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP prior to administration of any concomitant medication.
• Do not use needles or intravenous administration sets containing aluminum parts for the preparation or mixing of oxaliplatin injection. Aluminum has been reported to cause degradation of platinum compounds.
• Administer oxaliplatin injection as an intravenous infusion over 120 minutes concurrently with leucovorin over 120 minutes in separate bags.

5.1 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Serious and fatal hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur with oxaliplatin within minutes of administration and during any cycle. Grade 3 to 4 hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, occurred in 2% to 3% of patients with colon cancer who received oxaliplatin. Hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, urticaria, erythema, pruritus, and rarely, bronchospasm and hypotension, were similar in nature and severity to those reported with other platinum-based drugs.

Oxaliplatin is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity reactions to platinum-based drugs [see Contraindications (4)]. Immediately and permanently discontinue oxaliplatin for hypersensitivity reactions and administer appropriate treatment for management of hypersensitivity reactions.

5.2 Peripheral Sensory Neuropathy

Oxaliplatin can cause acute and delayed neuropathy. Reduce the dose or permanently discontinue oxaliplatin for persistent neurosensory reactions based on the severity of the adverse reaction [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Acute Neuropathy
Acute neuropathy typically presents as a reversible, primarily peripheral sensory neuropathy that occurs within hours or 2 days following a dose, resolves within 14 days, and frequently recurs with further dosing. The symptoms can be precipitated or exacerbated by exposure to cold temperature or cold objects and they usually present as transient paresthesia, dysesthesia and hypoesthesia in the hands, feet, perioral area, or throat. Jaw spasm, abnormal tongue sensation, dysarthria, eye pain, and a feeling of chest pressure have also been observed. The acute, reversible pattern of sensory neuropathy was observed in about 56% of patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin. In any individual cycle, acute neuropathy occurred in approximately 30% of patients. For grade 3 peripheral sensory neuropathy, the median time to onset was 9 cycles for adjuvant treatment and 6 cycles for previously treated advanced colorectal cancer.

An acute syndrome of pharyngolaryngeal dysesthesia occurred in 1% to 2% (grade 3 to 4) of patients previously untreated for advanced colorectal cancer. Subjective sensations of dysphagia or dyspnea, without any laryngospasm or bronchospasm (no stridor or wheezing) occurred in patients previously treated for advanced colorectal cancer.

Avoid topical application of ice for mucositis prophylaxis or other conditions, because cold temperature can exacerbate acute neurological symptoms.

Delayed Neuropathy

Delayed neuropathy typically presents as a persistent (greater than 14 days), primarily peripheral sensory neuropathy that is usually characterized by paresthesias, dysesthesias, and hypoesthesias, but may also include deficits in proprioception that can interfere with daily activities (e.g., writing, buttoning, swallowing, and difficulty walking from impaired proprioception). These forms of neuropathy occurred in 48% of patients receiving oxaliplatin. Delayed neuropathy can occur without any prior acute neuropathy. Most patients (80%) who developed grade 3 persistent neuropathy progressed from prior grade 1 or 2 reactions. These symptoms may improve in some patients upon discontinuation of oxaliplatin.

Adjuvant treatment

In the adjuvant treatment trial, neuropathy was graded using NCI CTC, version 1 as summarized in Table 3.

Table 3: Grading for Neuropathy in Adjuvant Treatment Trial

Peripheral sensory neuropathy occurred in 92% of patients (all grades), including 13% of patients (grade 3) who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin. At the 28-day follow-up after the last treatment cycle, 60% of patients had any grade (grade 1=40%, grade 2=16%, grade 3=5%) peripheral sensory neuropathy, decreasing to 39% at 6 months of follow-up (grade 1=31%, grade 2=7%, grade 3=1%) and 21% at 18 months of follow-up (grade 1=17%, grade 2=3%, grade 3=1%).

Advanced colorectal cancer

In the advanced colorectal cancer trials, neuropathy was graded using the neurotoxicity scale summarized in Table 4.

Table 4: Grading for Neuropathy in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Trials

Neuropathy occurred in 82% (all grades) of patients previously untreated for advanced colorectal cancer, including 19% grade 3 to 4; and in 74% (all grades) of patients previously treated for advanced colorectal cancer, including 7% grade 3 to 4.

5.3 Severe Myelosuppression

Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia occurred in 41% to 44% of patients with colorectal cancer who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin. Sepsis, neutropenic sepsis and septic shock, including fatal outcomes, occurred in patients who received oxaliplatin [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)].

Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia occurred in 2% to 5% of patients with colorectal cancer who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin.

Monitor complete blood cell count at baseline, before each subsequent cycle and as clinically indicated. Delay oxaliplatin until neutrophils are greater than or equal to 1.5 × 109/L and platelets are greater than or equal to 75 × 109/L. Withhold oxaliplatin for sepsis or septic shock. Dose reduce oxaliplatin after recovery from grade 4 neutropenia, febrile neutropenia or grade 3 to 4 thrombocytopenia as recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

5.4 Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

PRES occurred in less than 0.1% of patients across clinical trials [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Signs and symptoms of PRES can include headache, altered mental functioning, seizures, abnormal vision from blurriness to blindness, associated or not with hypertension. Confirm the diagnosis of PRES with magnetic resonance imaging. Permanently discontinue oxaliplatin in patients who develop PRES.

5.5 Pulmonary Toxicity

Oxaliplatin has been associated with pulmonary fibrosis (less than 1% of patients), which may be fatal [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

In the adjuvant treatment trial, the combined incidence of cough and dyspnea was 7.4% (any grade), including less than 1% (grade 3) in the oxaliplatin arm. One patient died from eosinophilic pneumonia in the oxaliplatin arm.

In the previously untreated advanced colorectal cancer trial, the combined incidence of cough, dyspnea and hypoxia was 43% (any grade), including 7% (grade 3 to 4) in the oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin arm.

In case of unexplained respiratory symptoms, such as non-productive cough, dyspnea, crackles, or radiological pulmonary infiltrates, withhold oxaliplatin until further pulmonary investigation excludes interstitial lung disease or pulmonary fibrosis. Permanently discontinue oxaliplatin for confirmed interstitial lung disease or pulmonary fibrosis.

5.6 Hepatotoxicity

In the adjuvant treatment trial, increased transaminases (57% vs 34%) and alkaline phosphatase (42% vs 20%) occurred more commonly in the oxaliplatin arm than in the fluorouracil/leucovorin arm [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. The incidence of increased bilirubin was similar on both arms. Changes noted on liver biopsies include: peliosis, nodular regenerative hyperplasia or sinusoidal alterations, perisinusoidal fibrosis, and veno-occlusive lesions.

Consider evaluating patients who develop abnormal liver tests or portal hypertension, which cannot be explained by liver metastases, for hepatic vascular disorders. Monitor liver function tests at baseline, before each subsequent cycle, and as clinically indicated.

5.7 QT Interval Prolongation and Ventricular Arrhythmias

QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including fatal torsade de pointes, have been reported with oxaliplatin [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

Avoid oxaliplatin in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. Monitor electrocardiograms (ECG) in patients with congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, and electrolyte abnormalities and in patients taking drugs known to prolong the QT interval, including Class Ia and III antiarrhythmics [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Monitor and correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to initiating oxaliplatin and periodically during treatment.

5.8 Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis, including fatal cases, has been reported with oxaliplatin [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Permanently discontinue oxaliplatin for any signs or symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.

5.9 Hemorrhage

The incidence of hemorrhage in clinical trials was higher on the oxaliplatin combination arm compared to the fluorouracil/leucovorin arm. These reactions included gastrointestinal bleeding, hematuria, and epistaxis. In the adjuvant treatment trial, 2 patients died from intracerebral hemorrhage [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Prolonged prothrombin time and INR occasionally associated with hemorrhage have been reported in patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin while on anticoagulants [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Increase frequency of monitoring in patients who are receiving oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin and oral anticoagulants [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

Thrombocytopenia and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia have been observed with oxaliplatin. Rapid onset of thrombocytopenia and greater risk of bleeding have been observed in immune-mediated thrombocytopenia. In this case, consider discontinuing oxaliplatin.

5.10 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action, oxaliplatin can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The available human data do not establish the presence or absence of major birth defects or miscarriage related to the use of oxaliplatin. Reproductive toxicity studies demonstrated adverse effects on embryo-fetal development in rats at maternal doses that were below the recommended human dose based on body surface area. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with oxaliplatin and for 9 months after the final dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with oxaliplatin and for 6 months after the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1,8.3)].

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

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

More than 1100 patients with stage II or III colon cancer and more than 4,000 patients with advanced colorectal cancer were treated in trials with oxaliplatin. The most common adverse reactions in patients with stage II or III colon cancer receiving adjuvant treatment were peripheral sensory neuropathy, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, nausea, increase in transaminases and alkaline phosphatase, diarrhea, emesis, fatigue and stomatitis. The most common adverse reactions in previously untreated and treated patients with advanced colorectal cancer were peripheral sensory neuropathies, fatigue, neutropenia, nausea, emesis, and diarrhea.

Adjuvant Treatment

The safety of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in patients with stage II or III colon cancer, who had undergone complete resection of the primary tumor in the adjuvant treatment trial [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Fatal adverse reactions in patients who received oxaliplatin in the combination arm included sepsis/neutropenic sepsis (n=3), intracerebral hemorrhage (n=2), and eosinophilic pneumonia (n=1).

Thromboembolic events occurred in 6% (grade 3 to 4, 1.2%) of patients in the oxaliplatin arm.

Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurred in 70% of patients in the oxaliplatin arm. Grade 3 to 4 gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in 0.2% of patients. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 0.7% and documented infection with concomitant grade 3 to 4 neutropenia occurred in 1.1%.

Discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 15% of the patients in the oxaliplatin arm.

Tables 5, 6, and 7 summarize the adverse reactions reported in patients with colon cancer receiving adjuvant treatment.

Table 5: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients with Colon Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Treatment (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients and with greater than or equal to 1% grade 3 to 4)

* Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary
† Includes thrombosis related to the catheter

Table 6: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients with Colon Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Treatment (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients but with less than 1% grade 3 to 4)

*Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary
 †No complete alopecia was reported

In females, the following grade 3 to 4 adverse reactions were more frequent: diarrhea, fatigue, neutropenia, nausea, and vomiting.

In patients greater than or equal to 65 years old, the incidence of grade 3 to 4 diarrhea and neutropenia was higher than in younger adults.

Clinically relevant adverse reactions were reported in greater than or equal to 2% and less than 5% of the patients in the oxaliplatin arm (listed in decreasing order of frequency) were pain, leukopenia, weight loss, and cough.

Table 7: Laboratory-Related Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥5% of Patients with Colon Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Treatment

Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer

The safety of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in a randomized trial of patients with previously untreated advanced colorectal cancer [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. The adverse reaction profile in this trial was similar to that seen in other trials.

Tables 8, 9, and 10 summarize the adverse reactions reported in the previously untreated advanced colorectal cancer trial.

Table 8: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients in the Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients and with greater than or equal to 1% grade 3 to 4)

* Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary

† Not otherwise specified

‡ Absolute neutrophil count

Table 9: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients in the Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients but with less than 1% grade 3 to 4)

* Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary

† No complete alopecia was reported

‡ Absolute neutrophil count

Clinically relevant adverse reactions that occurred in greater than or equal to 2% and less than 5% of the patients in the oxaliplatin and fluorouracil/leucovorin combination arm (listed in decreasing order of frequency) were: metabolic, pneumonitis, catheter infection, vertigo, prothrombin time, pulmonary, rectal bleeding, dysuria, nail changes, chest pain, rectal pain, syncope, hypertension, hypoxia, unknown infection, bone pain, pigmentation changes, and urticaria.

Table 10: Laboratory-Related Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥5% of Patients in the Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Trial

* Aspartate transaminase

† Alanine transaminase

Previously Treated Advanced Colorectal Cancer

The safety of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in a randomized trial in patients with refractory and relapsed colorectal cancer [see Clinical Studies (14.3)]. The adverse reaction profile in this trial was similar to that seen in other trials.

Three patients who received oxaliplatin in the combination arm experienced fatal adverse reactions: gastrointestinal bleeding and dehydration.

Grade 3 and 4 neutropenia were reported in 27% and 17% of patients, respectively, in the oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin combination arm. Grade 3 to 4 increased serum creatinine occurred in 1% of patients in the oxaliplatin with combination fluorouracil/leucovorin arm.

Thirteen percent of patients in the oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin combination arm discontinued treatment; the most frequent reasons were gastrointestinal adverse reactions, hematologic adverse reactions and neuropathies.

Tables 11, 12, and 13 summarize the adverse reactions reported in the previously treated advanced colorectal cancer trial.

Table 11: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients in the Previously Treated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Trial (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients and with greater than or equal to 1% grade 3 to 4)

* Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary

Table 12: Adverse Reactions Reported in Patients in the Previously Treated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial (greater than or equal to 5% of all patients but with less than 1% grade 3 to 4)

* Event coded in WHO-ART dictionary
†  No complete alopecia was reported

Clinically relevant adverse reactions in greater than or equal to 2% and less than 5% of the patients in the oxaliplatin and fluorouracil/leucovorin combination arm (listed in decreasing order of frequency) were: anxiety, myalgia, erythematous rash, increased sweating, conjunctivitis, weight decrease, dry mouth, rectal hemorrhage, depression, ataxia, ascites, hemorrhoids, muscle weakness, nervousness, tachycardia, abnormal micturition frequency, dry skin, pruritus, hemoptysis, purpura, vaginal hemorrhage, melena, somnolence, pneumonia, proctitis, involuntary muscle contractions, intestinal obstruction, gingivitis, tenesmus, hot flashes, enlarged abdomen, and urinary incontinence.

Table 13: Laboratory-Related Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥5% of Patients with Previously Treated Advanced Colorectal Cancer

* Alanine transaminase

Additional Adverse Reactions

The following adverse reactions were observed across clinical trials.

Intravenous site reactions

Injection site reaction, including redness, swelling, and pain, can occur with oxaliplatin. In some cases, skin necrosis has occurred with extravasation.

PRES

PRES occurred in less than 0.1% of patients.

Pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease

Pulmonary fibrosis, which may be fatal, occurred in less than 1% of patients.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

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

• General: angioedema, anaphylactic shock
• Cardiovascular: QT prolongation leading to ventricular arrhythmias, including fatal torsade de pointes; bradyarrhythmia
• Neurological: loss of deep tendon reflexes, dysarthria, Lhermitte’s sign, cranial nerve palsies, fasciculations, convulsion
• Hearing and vestibular system: deafness
• Infections: septic shock, including fatal outcomes
• Infusion-related reactions and hypersensitivity reactions: laryngospasm
• Hepatic and gastrointestinal: severe diarrhea/vomiting resulting in hypokalemia, colitis (including Clostridium difficile diarrhea), metabolic acidosis, ileus, intestinal obstruction, pancreatitis, sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, perisinusoidal fibrosis which rarely may progress, focal nodular hyperplasia, esophagitis
• Musculoskeletal and connective tissue: rhabdomyolysis, including fatal outcomes
• Platelet, bleeding, and clotting disorders: immuno-allergic thrombocytopenia, prolonged prothrombin time and INR in patients receiving anticoagulants
• Blood disorders: secondary leukemia
• Red blood cell: hemolytic uremic syndrome, immuno-allergic hemolytic anemia
• Renal: acute tubular necrosis, acute interstitial nephritis, acute renal failure
• Respiratory: interstitial lung diseases (sometimes fatal) and pneumonia (including fatal outcomes)
• Vision: decrease of visual acuity, visual field disturbance, optic neuritis and transient vision loss (reversible following treatment discontinuation)
• Injury, poisoning, and procedural complications: fall-related injuries

7.1 Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval

QT interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias can occur with oxaliplatin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Avoid coadministration of oxaliplatin with medicinal products with a known potential to prolong the QT interval.

7.2 Use with Nephrotoxic Products

Because platinum-containing species are eliminated primarily through the kidney, clearance of these products may be decreased by coadministration of potentially nephrotoxic compounds [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Avoid coadministration of oxaliplatin with medicinal products known to cause nephrotoxicity.

7.3 Use with Anticoagulants

Prolonged prothrombin time and INR occasionally associated with hemorrhage have been reported in patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin while on anticoagulants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9), Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Increase frequency of monitoring in patients who are receiving oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin and oral anticoagulants.

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Based on its direct interaction with DNA, oxaliplatin can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The available human data do not establish the presence or absence of major birth defects or miscarriage related to the use of oxaliplatin. Reproductive toxicity studies demonstrated adverse effects on embryo-fetal development in rats at maternal doses that were below the recommended human dose based on body surface area (see Data). Advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to a fetus.

In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Data

Animal data

Pregnant rats were administered oxaliplatin at less than one-tenth the recommended human dose based on body surface area during gestation days (GD) 1 to 5 (preimplantation), GD 6 to 10, or GD 11 to 16 (during organogenesis). Oxaliplatin caused developmental mortality (increased early resorptions) when administered on days GD 6 to 10 and GD 11 to 16 and adversely affected fetal growth (decreased fetal weight, delayed ossification) when administered on days GD 6 to 10.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of oxaliplatin or its metabolites in human or animal milk or its effects on the breastfed infant or on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with oxaliplatin and for 3 months after the final dose.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

Pregnancy Testing

Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating oxaliplatin [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Contraception

Oxaliplatin can cause embryo-fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Females
Advise female patients of reproductive potential to use effective contraception while receiving oxaliplatin and for 9 months after the final dose.

Males
Based on its mechanism action as a genotoxic drug, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception while receiving oxaliplatin and for 6 months after the final dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

Infertility

Based on animal studies, oxaliplatin may impair fertility in males and females [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of oxaliplatin in pediatrics have not been established. Safety and effectiveness were assessed across 4 open-label studies in 235 patients aged 7 months to 22 years with solid tumors.

In a multicenter, open-label, non-comparative, non-randomized study (ARD5531), oxaliplatin was administered to 43 patients with refractory or relapsed malignant solid tumors, mainly neuroblastoma and osteosarcoma. The dose limiting toxicity (DLT) was sensory neuropathy at a dose of 110 mg/m2. The main adverse reactions were: paresthesia (60%, grade 3 to 4: 7%), fever (40%, grade 3 to 4: 7%), and thrombocytopenia (40%, grade 3 to 4: 27%). No responses were observed.

In an open-label non-randomized study (DFI7434), oxaliplatin was administered to 26 pediatric patients with metastatic or unresectable solid tumors, mainly neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma. The DLT was sensory neuropathy at a dose of 160 mg/m2. No responses were observed.

In an open-label, single-agent study (ARD5021), oxaliplatin was administered to 43 pediatric patients with recurrent or refractory embryonal CNS tumors. The most common adverse reactions reported were: leukopenia (67%, grade 3 to 4: 12%), anemia (65%, grade 3 to 4: 5%), thrombocytopenia (65%, grade 3 to 4: 26%), vomiting (65%, grade 3 to 4: 7%), neutropenia (58%, grade 3 to 4: 16%), and sensory neuropathy (40%, grade 3 to 4: 5%).

In an open-label single-agent study (ARD5530), oxaliplatin was administered to 123 pediatric patients with recurrent solid tumors, including neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma or peripheral PNET, ependymoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, hepatoblastoma, high grade astrocytoma, brain stem glioma, low grade astrocytoma, malignant germ cell tumor and other tumors. The most common adverse reactions reported were: sensory neuropathy (52%, grade 3 to 4: 12%), thrombocytopenia (37%, grade 3 to 4: 17%), anemia (37%, grade 3 to 4: 9%), vomiting (26%, grade 3 to 4: 4%), increased ALT (24%, grade 3 to 4: 6%), increased AST (24%, grade 3 to 4: 2%), and nausea (23%, grade 3 to 4: 3%).

The pharmacokinetic parameters of ultrafiltrable platinum were evaluated in 105 pediatric patients during the first cycle. The mean clearance in pediatric patients estimated by the population pharmacokinetic analysis was 4.7 L/h (%CV, 41%). Mean platinum pharmacokinetic parameters in ultrafiltrate were Cmax  of 0.75 ± 0.24 mcg/mL, AUC0-48h  of 7.52 ± 5.07 mcg∙h/mL and AUCinf  of 8.83 ± 1.57 mcg.h/mL at 85 mg/m2  of oxaliplatin and Cmax  of 1.10 ± 0.43 mcg/mL, AUC0-48h  of 9.74 ± 2.52 mcg.h/mL and AUCinf  of 17.3 ± 5.34 mcg.h/mL at 130 mg/m2 of oxaliplatin.

8.5 Geriatric Use

In the adjuvant treatment trial [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], 400 patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin were greater than or equal to 65 years. The effect of oxaliplatin in patients greater than or equal to 65 years was not conclusive. Patients greater than or equal to 65 years receiving oxaliplatin experienced more diarrhea and grade 3 to 4 neutropenia (45% vs 39%) compared to patients less than 65 years.

In the previously untreated advanced colorectal cancer trial [see Clinical Studies (14.2)], 99 patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil and leucovorin were greater than or equal to 65 years. The same efficacy improvements in response rate, time to tumor progression, and overall survival were observed in the greater than or equal to 65 years patients as in the overall study population. Adverse reactions were similar in patients less than 65 and greater than or equal to 65 years, but older patients may have been more susceptible to diarrhea, dehydration, hypokalemia, leukopenia, fatigue, and syncope.

In the previously treated advanced colorectal cancer trial [see Clinical Studies (14.3)], 55 patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil and leucovorin were greater than or equal to 65 years. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger adults. Adverse reactions were similar in patients less than 65 and greater than or equal to 65 years, but older patients may have been more susceptible to diarrhea, dehydration, hypokalemia, and fatigue.

No significant effect of age on the clearance of ultrafiltrable platinum has been observed [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.6 Patients with Renal Impairment

The AUC of unbound platinum in plasma ultrafiltrate was increased in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. No dose reduction is recommended for patients with mild (creatinine clearance 50 to 79 mL/min) or moderate (creatinine clearance 30 to 49 mL/min) renal impairment, calculated by Cockcroft-Gault equation. Reduce the dose of oxaliplatin in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Oxaliplatin undergoes nonenzymatic conversion in physiologic solutions to active derivatives via displacement of the labile oxalate ligand. Several transient reactive species are formed, including monoaquo and diaquo DACH platinum, which covalently bind with macromolecules. Both inter- and intrastrand Pt-DNA crosslinks are formed. Crosslinks are formed between the N7 positions of two adjacent guanines (GG), adjacent adenine-guanines (AG), and guanines separated by an intervening nucleotide (GNG). These crosslinks inhibit DNA replication and transcription. Cytotoxicity is cell-cycle nonspecific.

In vivo studies have shown antitumor activity of oxaliplatin against colon carcinoma. In combination with fluorouracil, oxaliplatin exhibits in vitro and in vivo antiproliferative activity greater than either compound alone in several tumor models (HT29 [colon], GR [mammary], and L1210 [leukemia]).

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

A pharmacodynamic relationship between platinum ultrafiltrate levels and clinical safety and effectiveness has not been established.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

The reactive oxaliplatin derivatives are present as a fraction of the unbound platinum in plasma ultrafiltrate. After a single 2-hour intravenous infusion of oxaliplatin at a dose of 85 mg/m2, pharmacokinetic parameters expressed as ultrafiltrable platinum were Cmaxof 0.814 mcg/mL and volume of distribution of 440 L.

Interpatient and intrapatient variability in ultrafiltrable platinum exposure (AUC0-48hr) assessed over 3 cycles was 23% and 6%, respectively.

Distribution

At the end of a 2-hour infusion of oxaliplatin, approximately 15% of the administered platinum is present in the systemic circulation. The remaining 85% is rapidly distributed into tissues or eliminated in the urine. The decline of ultrafiltrable platinum levels following oxaliplatin administration is triphasic, including two distribution phases (t1/2α; 0.43 hours and t1/2β; 16.8 hours).

In patients, plasma protein binding of platinum is irreversible and is greater than 90%. The main binding proteins are albumin and gamma-globulins.

Platinum also binds irreversibly and accumulates (approximately 2-fold) in erythrocytes, where it appears to have no relevant activity. No platinum accumulation was observed in plasma ultrafiltrate following 85 mg/m2 every two weeks.

Elimination

The decline of ultrafiltrable platinum concentrations from plasma is characterized by a long terminal elimination phase (t1/2γ; 391 hour).

Metabolism

Oxaliplatin undergoes rapid and extensive nonenzymatic biotransformation. There is no evidence of cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism in vitro.

Up to 17 platinum-containing derivatives have been observed in plasma ultrafiltrate samples from patients, including several cytotoxic species (monochloro DACH platinum, dichloro DACH platinum, and monoaquo and diaquo DACH platinum) and a number of noncytotoxic, conjugated species.

Excretion

The major route of platinum elimination is renal excretion. At five days after a single 2-hour infusion of oxaliplatin, urinary elimination accounted for about 54% of the platinum eliminated, with fecal excretion accounting for only about 2%. Platinum was cleared from plasma at a rate (10 to 17 L/h) that was similar to or exceeded the average human glomerular filtration rate (GFR; 7.5 L/h). The renal clearance of ultrafiltrable platinum is significantly correlated with GFR.

Special Populations

Sex

There was no significant effect of sex on the clearance of ultrafiltrable platinum.

Patients with renal impairment

Patients with normal function (CLcr greater than 80 mL/min) and patients with mild (CLcr=50 to 80 mL/min) and moderate (CLcr equal to 30 to 49 mL/min) renal impairment received oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2  and those with severe (CLcr less than 30 mL/min) renal impairment received oxaliplatin 65 mg/m2. Mean dose adjusted AUC of unbound platinum was 40%, 95%, and 342% higher for patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively, compared to patients with normal renal function. Mean dose adjusted Cmaxof unbound platinum appeared to be similar among the normal, mild and moderate renal function groups, but was 38% higher in the severe group than in the normal group [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Drug Interaction Studies

No pharmacokinetic interaction between oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 and infusional fluorouracil has been observed in patients treated every 2 weeks, but increases of fluorouracil plasma concentrations by approximately 20% have been observed with doses of 130 mg/m2 of oxaliplatin administered every 3 weeks.

In vitro platinum was not displaced from plasma proteins by the following medications: erythromycin, salicylate, sodium valproate, granisetron, and paclitaxel.

In vitro oxaliplatin does not inhibit human cytochrome P450 isoenzymes.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of oxaliplatin. Oxaliplatin was not mutagenic to bacteria (Ames test) but was mutagenic to mammalian cells in vitro (L5178Y mouse lymphoma assay). Oxaliplatin was clastogenic both in vitro (chromosome aberration in human lymphocytes) and in vivo (mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay).

In a fertility study, male rats were given oxaliplatin at 0, 0.5, 1, or 2 mg/kg/day for five days every 21 days for a total of three cycles prior to mating with females that received two cycles of oxaliplatin on the same schedule. A dose of 2 mg/kg/day (less than one-seventh the recommended human dose on a body surface area basis) did not affect pregnancy rate, but resulted in 97% postimplantation loss (increased early resorptions, decreased live fetuses, decreased live births), and delayed growth (decreased fetal weight).

Testicular damage, characterized by degeneration, hypoplasia, and atrophy, was observed in dogs administered oxaliplatin at 0.75 mg/kg/day (approximately one-sixth of the recommended human dose on a body surface area basis) × 5 days every 28 days for three cycles. A no effect level was not identified.

14.1 Adjuvant Treatment with Oxaliplatin in Combination with Fluorouracil and Leucovorin

The efficacy of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in an international, multicenter, randomized (1:1) trial (The Multicenter International Study of Oxaliplatin/5-Fluorouracil/Leucovorin in the Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer [MOSAIC], NCT00275210) in patients with stage II (Dukes’ B2) or III (Dukes’ C) colon cancer who had undergone complete resection of the primary tumor. Patients were randomized to receive oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin or fluorouracil/leucovorin alone for a total of 6 months (i.e., 12 cycles). Table 14 shows the dosing regimens for the two arms.

Eligible patients were between 18 and 75 years of age, had histologically proven stage II (T3 to T4 N0 M0; Dukes’ B2) or III (any T N1-2 M0; Dukes’ C) colon carcinoma (with the inferior pole of the tumor above the peritoneal reflection, i.e., greater than or equal to 15 cm from the anal margin) and had undergone (within 7 weeks prior to randomization) complete resection of the primary tumor without gross or microscopic evidence of residual disease and carcino-embyrogenic antigen (CEA) less than 10 ng/mL. Additional eligibility criteria were no prior chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0, 1, or 2 (Karnofsky Performance Status greater than or equal to 60%); no pre-existing neuropathy; and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) greater than or equal to 1.5 × 109/L, platelets greater than or equal to 100 × 109/L, serum creatinine less than or equal to 1.25 × upper limit normal (ULN), total bilirubin less than 2 × ULN, and aspartate transaminase (AST)/alanine transaminase (ALT) less than 2 × ULN. The major efficacy outcome was 3-year disease-free survival (DFS).

Table 14: Dosing Regimens in Adjuvant Treatment Study

There were 2246 patients enrolled, of whom 1347 (60%) had Stage III disease. Tables 15 and 16 show the baseline characteristics and exposure to oxaliplatin.

Table 15: Baseline Characteristics in Adjuvant Treatment Study

Table 16: Exposure to Oxaliplatin in Adjuvant Treatment Study

The median duration of follow-up was approximately 77 months. In the overall and the stage III colon cancer populations, DFS was statistically significantly improved in the oxaliplatin-containing arm compared to fluorouracil/leucovorin alone; however, a statistically significant improvement in DFS was not observed in Stage II patients. No significant differences in overall survival (OS) were detected in the overall population or those with Stage III disease. Table 17 and Figures 1 and 2 summarize the 5-year DFS rates in the overall randomized population and in patients with stage II and III disease based on an intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis.

Table 17: Summary of DFS Analysis in Adjuvant Treatment Study –ITT Population

A hazard ratio of less than 1 favors Oxaliplatin + Infusional FU/LV
Data cut off for disease-free survival June 1, 2006
 
Figure 1: Kaplan-Meier Curves of Disease-Free Survival (cutoff: 1 June 2006) in Adjuvant Treatment Trial – ITT Population

Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier Curves of Disease-Free Survival in Stage III Patients (cutoff: 1June 2006) in Adjuvant Treatment Trial – ITT Population

Table 18 summarizes the OS results in the overall randomized population and in patients with stage II and III disease, based on the ITT analysis.

Table 18: Summary of OS Analysis in Adjuvant Treatment – ITT Population

A hazard ratio of less than 1 favors Oxaliplatin + Infusional FU/LV
Data cut off for overall survival January 16, 2007

14.2 Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer

The efficacy of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in a North American, multicenter, open-label, randomized, active-controlled trial (A Randomized Phase III Trial of Three Different Regimens of CPT-11 Plus 5-Fluorouracil and Leucovorin Compared to 5-Fluorouracil and Leucovorin in Patients with Advanced Adenocarcinoma of the Colon and Rectum; NCT00003594). The trial included 7 arms at different times during its conduct, four of which were closed due to either changes in the standard of care, toxicity, or simplification. During the trial, the control arm was changed to irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin.

The results reported below compared the efficacy of oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin and oxaliplatin with irinotecan to an approved control regimen of irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin in 795 concurrently randomized patients previously untreated for locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer. Table 19 presents the dosing regimens for the three arms. After completion of enrollment, the dose of irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin was decreased due to toxicity.

Eligible patients were at least 18 years of age; had known locally advanced, locally recurrent, or metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma not curable by surgery or amenable to radiation therapy; with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≤0, 1, or 2. Patients had to have absolute neutrophil count (ANC) greater than or equal to 1.5 × 109/L, platelets greater than or equal to 100 × 109/L, hemoglobin greater than or equal to 9.0 g/dL, creatinine less than or equal to 1.5 × upper limit of normal (ULN), total bilirubin less than or equal to 1.5 mg/dL, aspartate transaminase (AST) less than or equal to 5 × ULN, and alkaline phosphatase less than or equal to 5 × ULN. Patients may have received adjuvant treatment for resected Stage II or III disease without recurrence within 12 months. Randomization was stratified by ECOG performance status (0, 1 vs 2), prior adjuvant chemotherapy (yes vs no), prior immunotherapy (yes vs no), and age (less than 65 vs greater than or equal to 65 years). Although no post study treatment was specified in the protocol, 65% to 72% of patients received additional post study chemotherapy after study treatment discontinuation on all arms. Fifty-eight percent of patients on the oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin arm received an irinotecan-containing regimen and 23% of patients on the irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin arm received an oxaliplatin-containing regimen. The main efficacy outcome measure was 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) and additional efficacy outcome measures were overall survival (OS).

Table 19: Dosing Regimens for Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial

Table 20 presents the baseline characteristics.

Table 20: Baseline Characteristics for Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial

The median number of cycles administered per patient was 10 (23.9 weeks) for the oxaliplatin plus fluorouracil/leucovorin regimen, 4 (23.6 weeks) for the irinotecan plus fluorouracil/leucovorin regimen, and 7 (21.0 weeks) for the oxaliplatin plus irinotecan regimen.

Patients who received oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin had a significantly longer time to tumor progression based on investigator assessment, longer OS, and a significantly higher confirmed response rate based on investigator assessment compared to patients who received irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin. Efficacy results are summarized in Table 21 and Figure 3.

Table 21: Efficacy Results for Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Trial

* A hazard ratio of less than 1 favors Oxaliplatin + Infusional FU/LV

† Compared to irinotecan plus fluorouracil/leucovorin (IFL) arm

‡ Based on all patients with measurable disease at baseline 

The numbers in the response rate and TTP analysis are based on unblinded investigator assessment.

Figure 3: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Overall Survival in Previously Untreated Advanced Colorectal Cancer Trial


In descriptive subgroup analyses, the improvement in overall survival (OS) for oxaliplatin with fluorouracil/leucovorin compared to irinotecan with fluorouracil/leucovorin appeared to be maintained across age groups, prior adjuvant treatment, number of organs involved and both sexes; however, the effect appeared larger among women than men.

14.3 Previously Treated Advanced Colorectal Cancer

The efficacy of oxaliplatin in combination with fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) was evaluated in a multicenter, open-label, randomized, three-arm controlled trial was conducted in the US and Canada in patients with advanced colorectal cancer who had relapsed/progressed during or within 6 months of first-line treatment with bolus fluorouracil/leucovorin and irinotecan (A multicenter, open-label, randomized, three-arm study of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) + leucovorin (LV) or oxaliplatin or a combination of 5-FU/LV + oxaliplatin as second-line treatment of metastatic colorectal carcinoma: NCT00008281). Patients were randomized to one of three regimens; the dosing regimens are presented in Table 22. Eligible patients were at least 18 years of age, had unresectable, measurable, histologically proven colorectal adenocarcinoma, with a Karnofsky performance status (KPS) greater than 50%. Patients had to have aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase less than or equal to 2× upper limit of normal (ULN), unless liver metastases were present and documented at baseline by CT or MRI scan, in which case less than or equal to 5× ULN was permitted. Prior radiotherapy was permitted if it had been completed at least 3 weeks before randomization. The main efficacy outcome measure was 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) and an additional outcome measure was overall survival (OS).

Table 22: Dosing Regimens in Refractory and Relapsed Colorectal Cancer Trial  

Patients must have had at least one unidimensional lesion measuring greater than or equal to 20 mm using conventional CT or MRI scans or greater than or equal to 10 mm using a spiral CT scan. Tumor response and progression were assessed every 3 cycles (6 weeks) using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) until radiological documentation of progression or for 13 months following the first dose of study drug(s), whichever came first. Confirmed responses were based on two tumor assessments separated by at least 4 weeks. Baseline characteristics are shown in Table 23.
Table 23: Baseline Characteristics in Refractory and Relapsed Colorectal Cancer Trial  

The median number of cycles administered per patient was 6 for the oxaliplatin and fluorouracil/leucovorin combination and 3 each for fluorouracil/leucovorin alone and oxaliplatin alone. Patients treated with the combination of oxaliplatin and fluorouracil/leucovorin had an increased response rate compared to patients given fluorouracil/leucovorin or oxaliplatin alone. Efficacy results are summarized in Tables 24 and 25.
Table 24: Response Rates in Refractory and Relapsed Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial - ITT Analysis

Table 25: Radiographic Time to Progression (TTP)* in Refractory and Relapsed Colorectal Cancer Clinical Trial

* This is not an ITT analysis. Events were limited to radiographic disease progression documented by independent review of radiographs. Clinical progression was not included in this analysis, and 18% of patients were excluded from the analysis based on unavailability of the radiographs for independent review.

At the time of the interim analysis 49% of the radiographic progression events had occurred. In this interim analysis an estimated 2-month increase in median time to radiographic progression was observed compared to fluorouracil/leucovorin alone.