1.1     Treatment of Chronic Iron Overload Due to Blood Transfusions (Transfusional Iron Overload)

JADENU is indicated for the treatment of chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions (transfusional hemosiderosis) in patients 2 years of age and older. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on a reduction of liver iron concentrations and serum ferritin levels [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

1.2     Treatment of Chronic Iron Overload in Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

JADENU is indicated for the treatment of chronic iron overload in patients 10 years of age and older with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT) syndromes and with a liver iron concentration (LIC) of at least 5 milligrams of iron per gram of liver dry weight (mg Fe/g dw) and a serum ferritin greater than 300 mcg/L. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on a reduction of liver iron concentrations (to less than 5 mg Fe/g dw) and serum ferritin levels [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

1.3     Limitations of Use

Controlled clinical trials of JADENU with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions have not been performed [see Clinical Studies (14)].

The safety and efficacy of JADENU when administered with other iron chelation therapy have not been established.

2.1     Transfusional Iron Overload

JADENU therapy should only be considered when a patient has evidence of chronic transfusional iron overload. The evidence should include the transfusion of at least 100 mL/kg of packed red blood cells (e.g., at least 20 units of packed red blood cells for a 40 kg person or more in individuals weighing more than 40 kg), and a serum ferritin consistently greater than 1000 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:

• serum ferritin level
• baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the CLcr (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
• baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]

The recommended initial dose of JADENU for patients 2 years of age and older is 14 mg per kg body weight orally, once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet or nearest whole sachet content for granules. Changes in weight of pediatric patients over time must be taken into account when calculating the dose.

After commencing therapy, monitor serum ferritin monthly and adjust the dose of JADENU, if necessary, every 3 to 6 months based on serum ferritin trends. Make dose adjustments in steps of 3.5 or 7 mg per kg and tailor adjustments to the individual patient’s response and therapeutic goals. In patients not adequately controlled with doses of 21 mg per kg (e.g., serum ferritin levels persistently above 2500 mcg/L and not showing a decreasing trend over time), doses of up to 28 mg per kg may be considered. Doses above 28 mg per kg are not recommended.

If the serum ferritin falls consistently below 500 mcg/L, consider temporarily interrupting therapy with JADENU [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

2.2     Iron Overload in Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

JADENU therapy should only be considered when a patient with NTDT syndrome has an LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw and a serum ferritin greater than 300 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:

• LIC by liver biopsy or by an FDA-cleared or approved method for identifying patients for treatment with deferasirox therapy
• Serum ferritin level on at least 2 measurements 1 month apart [see Clinical Studies (14)]
• Baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the CLcr (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• Serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
• Baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]

Initiating therapy:

• The recommended initial dose of JADENU is 7 mg per kg body weight orally once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet or nearest whole sachet content for granules.
• If the baseline LIC is greater than 15 mg Fe/g dw, consider increasing the dose to 14 mg/kg/day after 4 weeks.

During therapy:

• Monitor serum ferritin monthly. Interrupt treatment when serum ferritin is less than 300 mcg/L and obtain an LIC to determine whether the LIC has fallen to less than 3 mg Fe/g dw.
• Monitor LIC every 6 months.
• After 6 months of therapy, if the LIC remains greater than 7 mg Fe/g dw, increase the dose of deferasirox to a maximum of 14 mg/kg/day. Do not exceed a maximum of 14 mg/kg/day.
• If after 6 months of therapy, the LIC is 3 to 7 mg Fe/g dw, continue treatment with deferasirox at no more than 7 mg/kg/day.
• When the LIC is less than 3 mg Fe/g dw, interrupt treatment with deferasirox and continue to monitor the LIC.
• Monitor blood counts, hepatic function, and renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.4)].

Restart treatment when the LIC rises again to more than 5 mg Fe/g dw.

2.3     Administration

Swallow JADENU tablets once daily with water or other liquids, preferably at the same time each day. Take JADENU tablets on an empty stomach or with a light meal (contains less than 7% fat content and approximately 250 calories). Examples of light meals include 1 whole wheat English muffin, 1 packet jelly (0.5 ounces), and skim milk (8 fluid ounces) or a turkey sandwich (2 oz. turkey on whole wheat bread w/ lettuce, tomato, and 1 packet mustard). Do not take JADENU tablets with aluminum-containing antacid products [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. For patients who have difficulty swallowing whole tablets, JADENU tablets may be crushed and mixed with soft foods (e.g., yogurt or apple sauce) immediately prior to use and administered orally. Commercial crushers with serrated surfaces should be avoided for crushing a single 90 mg tablet. The dose should be immediately and completely consumed and not stored for future use.

Take JADENU Sprinkle granules on an empty stomach or with a light meal [see Pharmacokinetics (12.3)]. Administer JADENU Sprinkle granules by sprinkling the full dose on soft food (e.g. yogurt or apple sauce) immediately prior to use and administered orally. JADENU Sprinkle granules should be taken once a day, preferably at the same time each day. Do not take JADENU Sprinkle granules with aluminum-containing antacid products [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

For patients who are currently on chelation therapy with Exjade tablets for oral suspension and converting to JADENU, the dose should be about 30% lower, rounded to the nearest whole tablet or nearest whole sachet content for granules. The table below provides additional information on dosing conversion to JADENU.

2.4     Use in Patients with Baseline Hepatic or Renal Impairment

Patients with Baseline Hepatic Impairment

Mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment is necessary.

Moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment: Reduce the starting dose by 50%.

Severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment: Avoid JADENU tablets or JADENU Sprinkle granules [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Patients with Baseline Renal Impairment

For patients with CLcr 40 to 60 mL/min, reduce the starting dose by 50% [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Do not use JADENU in patients with serum creatinine greater than two times the age-appropriate upper limit of normal (ULN) or CLcr less than 40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].

2.5     Dose Modifications for Increases in Serum Creatinine

For serum creatinine increases while receiving JADENU [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] modify the dose as follows:

Transfusional Iron Overload

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):

• If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, reduce the dose by 7 mg per kg.

Pediatric Patients (ages 2 to 15 years):

• Reduce the dose by 7 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate upper limit of normal (ULN).

All Patients (regardless of age):

• Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than two times the age-appropriate ULN or for creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min. [see Contraindications (4)]

Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):

• If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, interrupt therapy if the dose is 3.5 mg per kg, or reduce by 50% if the dose is 7 or 14 mg per kg.

Pediatric Patients (ages 10 to 15 years):

• Reduce the dose by 3.5 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate ULN.

All Patients (regardless of age):

• Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age-appropriate ULN or for creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].

2.6     Dose Modifications Based on Concomitant Medications

UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) Inducers

Concomitant use of UGT inducers decreases systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of strong UGT inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ritonavir). If you must administer JADENU tablets or JADENU Sprinkle granules with a strong UGT inducer, consider increasing the initial dose by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Bile Acid Sequestrants

Concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants decreases systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol). If you must administer JADENU tablets or JADENU Sprinkle granules with a bile acid sequestrant, consider increasing the initial dose by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.6)].

5.1     Renal Toxicity, Renal Failure, and Proteinuria

JADENU can cause acute renal failure, fatal in some patients and requiring dialysis in others. Postmarketing experience showed that most fatalities occurred in patients with multiple comorbidities and who were in advanced stages of their hematological disorders. In the clinical trials, deferasirox-treated patients experienced dose-dependent increases in serum creatinine. In patients with transfusional iron overload, these increases in creatinine occurred at a greater frequency compared to deferoxamine-treated patients (38% versus 14%, respectively, in Study 1 and 36% versus 22%, respectively, in Study 3) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)].

Measure serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the CLcr (estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault method) before initiating therapy in all patients in order to establish a reliable pretreatment baseline. Monitor serum creatinine weekly during the first month after initiation or modification of therapy and at least monthly thereafter. Monitor serum creatinine and/or CLcr more frequently if creatinine levels are increasing. Dose reduction, interruption, or discontinuation based on increases in serum creatinine may be necessary [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

JADENU is contraindicated in patients with CLcr less than 40 mL/minute or serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age appropriate ULN.

Renal tubular damage, including Fanconi’s Syndrome, has been reported in patients treated with deferasirox, most commonly in children and adolescents with beta-thalassemia and serum ferritin levels less than 1500 mcg/L.

Intermittent proteinuria (urine protein/creatinine ratio greater than 0.6 mg/mg) occurred in 18.6% of deferasirox-treated patients compared to 7.2% of deferoxamine-treated patients in Study 1. In clinical trials in patients with transfusional iron overload, deferasirox was temporarily withheld until the urine protein/creatinine ratio fell below 0.6 mg/mg. Monthly monitoring for proteinuria is recommended. The mechanism and clinical significance of the proteinuria are uncertain [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.2     Hepatic Toxicity and Failure

Deferasirox can cause hepatic injury, fatal in some patients. In Study 1, 4 patients (1.3%) discontinued deferasirox because of hepatic toxicity (drug-induced hepatitis in 2 patients and increased serum transaminases in 2 additional patients). Hepatic toxicity appears to be more common in patients greater than 55 years of age. Hepatic failure was more common in patients with significant comorbidities, including liver cirrhosis and multiorgan failure [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Measure transaminases (AST and ALT) and bilirubin in all patients before the initiation of treatment and every 2 weeks during the first month and at least monthly thereafter. Consider dose modifications or interruption of treatment for severe or persistent elevations.

Avoid the use of JADENU in patients with severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment. Reduce the starting dose in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]. Patients with mild (Child-Pugh A) or moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment may be at higher risk for hepatic toxicity.

5.3     Gastrointestinal (GI) Ulceration, Hemorrhage, and Perforation

GI hemorrhage, including deaths, has been reported, especially in elderly patients who had advanced hematologic malignancies and/or low platelet counts. Nonfatal upper GI irritation, ulceration and hemorrhage have been reported in patients, including children and adolescents, receiving deferasirox [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Monitor for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and hemorrhage during JADENU therapy and promptly initiate additional evaluation and treatment if a serious GI adverse event is suspected. The risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage may be increased when administering JADENU in combination with drugs that have ulcerogenic or hemorrhagic potential, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, oral bisphosphonates, or anticoagulants. There have been reports of ulcers complicated with gastrointestinal perforation (including fatal outcome) [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

5.4     Bone Marrow Suppression

Neutropenia, agranulocytosis, worsening anemia, and thrombocytopenia, including fatal events, have been reported in patients treated with deferasirox. Preexisting hematologic disorders may increase this risk. Monitor blood counts in all patients. Interrupt treatment with JADENU in patients who develop cytopenias until the cause of the cytopenia has been determined. JADENU is contraindicated in patients with platelet counts below 50 x 10 9/L.

5.5     Increased Risk of Toxicity in the Elderly

Deferasirox has been associated with serious and fatal adverse reactions in the postmarketing setting, predominantly in elderly patients. Monitor elderly patients treated with JADENU more frequently for toxicity [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

5.6     Hypersensitivity

JADENU may cause serious hypersensitivity reactions (such as anaphylaxis and angioedema), with the onset of the reaction usually occurring within the first month of treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. If reactions are severe, discontinue JADENU and institute appropriate medical intervention. JADENU is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to deferasirox products and should not be reintroduced in patients who have experienced previous hypersensitivity reactions on deferasirox products due to the risk of anaphylactic shock.

5.7     Severe Skin Reactions

Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and erythema multiforme, have been reported during deferasirox therapy [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. The risk of other skin reactions including DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) cannot be excluded. If severe skin reactions are suspected, discontinue JADENU immediately and do not reintroduce JADENU therapy.

5.8     Skin Rash

Rashes may occur during JADENU treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. For rashes of mild to moderate severity, JADENU may be continued without dose adjustment, since the rash often resolves spontaneously. In severe cases, interrupt treatment with JADENU. Reintroduction at a lower dose with escalation may be considered after resolution of the rash.

5.9     Auditory and Ocular Abnormalities

Auditory disturbances (high frequency hearing loss, decreased hearing), and ocular disturbances (lens opacities, cataracts, elevations in intraocular pressure, and retinal disorders) were reported at a frequency of less than 1% with deferasirox therapy in the clinical studies. Perform auditory and ophthalmic testing (including slit lamp examinations and dilated fundoscopy) before starting JADENU treatment and thereafter at regular intervals (every 12 months). If disturbances are noted, monitor more frequently. Consider dose reduction or interruption.

5.10     Overchelation

For patients with transfusional iron overload, measure serum ferritin monthly to assess for possible overchelation of iron. If the serum ferritin falls below 500 mcg/L, consider interrupting therapy with JADENU, since overchelation may increase JADENU toxicity [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

For patients with NTDT, measure LIC by liver biopsy or by using an FDA-cleared or approved method for monitoring patients receiving deferasirox therapy every 6 months on treatment. Interrupt JADENU administration when the LIC is less than 3 mg Fe/g dw. Measure serum ferritin monthly, and if the serum ferritin falls below 300 mcg/L, interrupt JADENU and obtain a confirmatory LIC [see Clinical Studies (14)].

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. JADENU was evaluated in healthy volunteer trials. Currently, there are no clinical data in patients with JADENU tablets and JADENU Sprinkle granules. JADENU contains the same active ingredient as Exjade (deferasirox) tablets for oral suspension. The following adverse reactions have been reported with Exjade tablets for oral suspension.

Transfusional Iron Overload

A total of 700 adult and pediatric patients were treated with deferasirox for 48 weeks in premarketing studies. These included 469 patients with beta-thalassemia, 99 with rare anemias, and 132 with sickle cell disease. Of these patients, 45% were male, 70% were Caucasian and 292 patients were less than 16 years of age. In the sickle cell disease population, 89% of patients were black. Median treatment duration among the sickle cell patients was 51 weeks. Of the 700 patients treated, 469 (403 beta-thalassemia and 66 rare anemias) were entered into extensions of the original clinical protocols. In ongoing extension studies, median durations of treatment were 88 to 205 weeks.

Six hundred twenty-seven patients with MDS were enrolled across 5 uncontrolled trials. These studies varied in duration from 1 to 5 years. The discontinuation rate across studies in the first year was 46% (AEs 20%, withdrawal of consent 10%, death 8%, other 4%, lab abnormalities 3%, and lack of efficacy 1%). Among 47 patients enrolled in the study of 5-year duration, 10 remained on deferasirox at the completion of the study.

Table 1 displays adverse reactions occurring in greater than 5% of deferasirox-treated beta-thalassemia patients (Study 1), sickle cell disease patients (Study 3), and patients with MDS (MDS pool). Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, and increases in serum creatinine were the most frequent adverse reactions reported with a suspected relationship to deferasirox. Gastrointestinal symptoms, increases in serum creatinine, and skin rash were dose related.

In Study 1, a total of 113 (38%) patients treated with deferasirox had increases in serum creatinine greater than 33% above baseline on 2 separate occasions (Table 2) and 25 (8%) patients required dose reductions. Increases in serum creatinine appeared to be dose related [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. In this study, 17 (6%) patients treated with deferasirox developed elevations in SGPT/ALT levels greater than 5 times the ULN at 2 consecutive visits. Of these, 2 patients had liver biopsy proven drug-induced hepatitis and both discontinued deferasirox therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. An additional 2 patients, who did not have elevations in SGPT/ALT greater than 5 times the ULN, discontinued deferasirox because of increased SGPT/ALT. Increases in transaminases did not appear to be dose related. Adverse reactions that led to discontinuations included abnormal liver function tests (2 patients) and drug-induced hepatitis (2 patients), skin rash, glycosuria/proteinuria, Henoch Schönlein purpura, hyperactivity/insomnia, drug fever, and cataract (1 patient each).

In Study 3, a total of 48 (36%) patients treated with deferasirox had increases in serum creatinine greater than 33% above baseline on 2 separate occasions (Table 2) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Of the patients who experienced creatinine increases in Study 3, 8 deferasirox-treated patients required dose reductions. In this study, 5 patients in the deferasirox group developed elevations in SGPT/ALT levels greater than 5 times the ULN at 2 consecutive visits and 1 patient subsequently had deferasirox permanently discontinued. Four additional patients discontinued due to adverse reactions with a suspected relationship to study drug, including diarrhea, pancreatitis associated with gallstones, atypical tuberculosis, and skin rash.

In the MDS pool, in the first year, a total of 229 (37%) patients treated with deferasirox had increases in serum creatinine greater than 33% above baseline on 2 consecutive occasions (Table 2) and 8 (3.5%) patients permanently discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. A total of 5 (0.8%) patients developed SGPT/ALT levels greater than 5 times the ULN at 2 consecutive visits. The most frequent adverse reactions that led to discontinuation included increases in serum creatinine, diarrhea, nausea, rash, and vomiting. Death was reported in the first year in 52 (8%) of patients [see Clinical Studies (14)].

Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

In Study 4, 110 patients with NTDT received 1 year of treatment with deferasirox 5 or 10 mg/kg/day and 56 patients received placebo in a double-blind, randomized trial. In Study 5, 130 of the patients who completed Study 4 were treated with open-label deferasirox at 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg/day (depending on the baseline LIC) for 1 year [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Table 3 displays adverse reactions occurring in greater than 5% in any group. The most frequent adverse reactions with a suspected relationship to study drug were nausea, rash, and diarrhea.

In Study 4, 1 patient in the placebo 10 mg/kg/day group experienced an ALT increase to greater than 5 times ULN and greater than 2 times baseline (Table 4). Three deferasirox-treated patients (all in the 10 mg/kg/day group) had 2 consecutive serum creatinine level increases greater than 33% from baseline and greater than ULN. Serum creatinine returned to normal in all 3 patients (in 1 spontaneously and in the other 2 after drug interruption). Two additional cases of ALT increase and 2 additional cases of serum creatinine increase were observed in the 1-year extension of Study 4.

Proteinuria

In clinical studies, urine protein was measured monthly. Intermittent proteinuria (urine protein/creatinine ratio greater than 0.6 mg/mg) occurred in 18.6% of deferasirox-treated patients compared to 7.2% of deferoxamine-treated patients in Study 1 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Other Adverse Reactions

In the population of more than 5,000 patients with transfusional iron overload who have been treated with deferasirox during clinical trials, adverse reactions occurring in 0.1% to 1% of patients included gastritis, edema, sleep disorder, pigmentation disorder, dizziness, anxiety, maculopathy, cholelithiasis, pyrexia, fatigue, laryngeal pain, cataract, hearing loss, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, gastric ulcer (including multiple ulcers), duodenal ulcer, renal tubular disorder (Fanconi’s syndrome), and acute pancreatitis (with and without underlying biliary conditions). Adverse reactions occurring in 0.01% to 0.1% of patients included optic neuritis, esophagitis, and erythema multiforme. Adverse reactions which most frequently led to dose interruption or dose adjustment during clinical trials were rash, gastrointestinal disorders, infections, increased serum creatinine, and increased serum transaminases.

6.2     Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been spontaneously reported during post-approval use of deferasirox in the transfusional iron overload setting. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, in which patients may have received concomitant medication, it is not always possible to reliably estimate frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), leukocytoclastic vasculitis, urticaria, alopecia, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)

Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylactic reaction and angioedema)

Renal and urinary disorders: acute renal failure, tubulointerstitial nephritis

Hepatobiliary disorders: hepatic failure

Gastrointestinal disorders: gastrointestinal perforation

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: worsening anemia

7.1     Aluminum Containing Antacid Preparations

The concomitant administration of JADENU and aluminum-containing antacid preparations has not been formally studied. Although deferasirox has a lower affinity for aluminum than for iron, avoid use of JADENU with aluminum-containing antacid preparations.

7.2     Agents Metabolized by CYP3A4

Deferasirox may induce CYP3A4 resulting in a decrease in CYP3A4 substrate concentration when these drugs are coadministered. Closely monitor patients for signs of reduced effectiveness when deferasirox is administered with drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., alfentanil, aprepitant, budesonide, buspirone, conivaptan, cyclosporine, darifenacin, darunavir, dasatinib, dihydroergotamine, dronedarone, eletriptan, eplerenone, ergotamine, everolimus, felodipine, fentanyl, hormonal contraceptive agents, indinavir, fluticasone, lopinavir, lovastatin, lurasidone, maraviroc, midazolam, nisoldipine, pimozide, quetiapine, quinidine, saquinavir, sildenafil, simvastatin, sirolimus, tacrolimus, tolvaptan, tipranavir, triazolam, ticagrelor, and vardenafil) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.3     Agents Metabolized by CYP2C8

Deferasirox inhibits CYP2C8 resulting in an increase in CYP2C8 substrate (e.g., repaglinide and paclitaxel) concentration when these drugs are coadministered. If JADENU and repaglinide are used concomitantly, consider decreasing the dose of repaglinide and perform careful monitoring of blood glucose levels. Closely monitor patients for signs of exposure related toxicity when JADENU is coadministered with other CYP2C8 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.4     Agents Metabolized by CYP1A2

Deferasirox inhibits CYP1A2 resulting in an increase in CYP1A2 substrate (e.g., alosetron, caffeine, duloxetine, melatonin, ramelteon, tacrine, theophylline, tizanidine) concentration when these drugs are coadministered. An increase in theophylline plasma concentrations could lead to clinically significant theophylline induced CNS or other adverse reactions. Avoid the concomitant use of theophylline or other CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., tizanidine) with JADENU. Monitor theophylline concentrations and consider theophylline dose modification if you must coadminister theophylline with JADENU. Closely monitor patients for signs of exposure related toxicity when JADENU is coadministered with other drugs metabolized by CYP1A2 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.5     Agents Inducing UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) Metabolism

Deferasirox is a substrate of UGT1A1 and to a lesser extent UGT1A3. The concomitant use of JADENU with strong UGT inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ritonavir) may result in a decrease in JADENU efficacy due to a possible decrease in deferasirox concentration. Avoid the concomitant use of strong UGT inducers with JADENU. Consider increasing the initial dose of JADENU if you must coadminister these agents together [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.6     Bile Acid Sequestrants

Avoid the concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol) with JADENU due to a possible decrease in deferasirox concentration. If you must coadminister these agents together, consider increasing the initial dose of JADENU [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.1     Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no studies with the use of JADENU in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risks.

Administration of deferasirox to rats during pregnancy resulted in decreased offspring viability and an increase in renal anomalies in male offspring at doses that were about or less than the recommended human dose on a mg/m 2 basis. No fetal effects were noted in pregnant rabbits at doses equivalent to the human recommended dose on a mg/m 2 basis. JADENU should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

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

Data

Animal Data

In embryo-fetal developmental studies, pregnant rats and rabbits received oral deferasirox during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day in rats and 50 mg/kg/day in rabbits (1.2 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) on a mg/m2 basis). These doses resulted in maternal toxicity but no fetal harm was observed.

In a prenatal and postnatal developmental study, pregnant rats received oral deferasirox daily from organogenesis through lactation day 20 at doses of 10, 30, and 90 mg/kg/day (0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). Maternal toxicity, loss of litters, and decreased offspring viability occurred at 90 mg/kg/day (1.0 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis), and increases in renal anomalies in male offspring occurred at 30 mg/kg/day (0.3 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis).

8.2     Lactation

Risk Summary

No data are available regarding the presence of JADENU or its metabolites in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. Deferasirox and its metabolites were excreted in rat milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from deferasirox and its metabolites, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

8.4     Pediatric Use

Of the 700 patients with transfusional iron overload who received deferasirox during clinical studies, 292 were pediatric patients 2 to less than 16 years of age with various congenital and acquired anemias, including 52 patients age 2 to less than 6 years, 121 patients age 6 to less than 12 years and 119 patients age 12 to less than 16 years. Seventy percent of these patients had beta-thalassemia. Children between the ages of 2 to less than 6 years have a systemic exposure to deferasirox approximately 50% of that of adults [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. However, the safety and efficacy of deferasirox in pediatric patients was similar to that of adult patients, and younger pediatric patients responded similarly to older pediatric patients. The recommended starting dose and dosing modification are the same for children and adults [see Clinical Studies (14), Indications and Usage (1), Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

Growth and development in patients with chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions were within normal limits in children followed for up to 5 years in clinical trials.

Sixteen pediatric patients (10 to less than 16 years of age) with chronic iron overload and NTDT were treated with deferasirox in clinical studies. The safety and efficacy of deferasirox in these children was similar to that seen in the adults. The recommended starting dose and dosing modification are the same for children and adults with chronic iron overload in NTDT [see Clinical Studies (14), Indications and Usage (1.2), Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients with chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions who are less than 2 years of age or pediatric patients with chronic iron overload and NTDT who are less than 10 years of age.

8.5     Geriatric Use

Four hundred thirty-one patients greater than or equal to 65 years of age were studied in clinical trials of deferasirox in the transfusional iron overload setting. Two hundred twenty-five of these patients were between 65 and 75 years of age while 206 were greater than or equal to 75 years of age. The majority of these patients had myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) (n=393). In these trials, elderly patients experienced a higher frequency of adverse reactions than younger patients. Monitor elderly patients for early signs or symptoms of adverse reactions that may require a dose adjustment. Elderly patients are at increased risk for toxicity due to the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range.

8.6     Renal Impairment

For patients with creatinine clearance (CLcr) 40 to 60 mL/min, reduce the starting dose by 50% [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. JADENU is contraindicated in patients with a CLcr less than 40 mL/min or serum creatinine greater than two times the age-appropriate upper limit of normal (ULN) [see Contraindications (4)].

JADENU can cause renal failure. Monitor serum creatinine and calculate creatinine clearance during treatment in all patients. Reduce, interrupt or discontinue JADENU dosing based on increases in serum creatinine [see Dosage and Administration (2.4, 2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

8.7     Hepatic Impairment

Avoid use in patients with severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment. For patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment, reduce the starting dose by 50%. Closely monitor patients with mild (Child-Pugh A) or moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment for efficacy and adverse reactions that may require dose titration [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].

12.1     Mechanism of Action

JADENU (deferasirox) is an orally active chelator that is selective for iron (as Fe 3+). It is a tridentate ligand that binds iron with high affinity in a 2:1 ratio. Although deferasirox has very low affinity for zinc and copper there are variable decreases in the serum concentration of these trace metals after the administration of deferasirox. The clinical significance of these decreases is uncertain.

12.2     Pharmacodynamics

Pharmacodynamic effects tested in an iron balance metabolic study with the tablet for oral suspension formulation showed that deferasirox (10, 20, and 40 mg per kg per day) was able to induce a mean net iron excretion (0.119, 0.329, and 0.445 mg Fe/kg body weight per day, respectively) within the clinically relevant range (0.1 to 0.5 mg per kg per day). Iron excretion was predominantly fecal.

Cardiac Electrophysiology

The effect of 20 and 40 mg per kg per day of deferasirox (tablets for oral suspension) on the QT interval was evaluated in a single-dose, double-blind, randomized, placebo- and active-controlled (moxifloxacin 400 mg), parallel group study in 182 healthy male and female subjects age 18 to 65 years. No evidence of prolongation of the QTc interval was observed in this study.

12.3     Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Based on studies in patients with the tablet for oral suspension, deferasirox is absorbed following oral administration with median times to maximum plasma concentration (t max) of about 1.5 to 4 hours. In healthy subjects, JADENU showed comparable t max. The maximal concentrations (C max) and area under the curve (AUC 0-24h, AUC τ) of deferasirox increase approximately linearly with dose after both single administration and under steady-state conditions. Exposure to deferasirox increased by an accumulation factor of 1.3 to 2.3 after multiple doses with the tablet for oral suspension formulation.

Tablets

The absolute bioavailability [as measured by area under the curve over time to infinity (AUC inf)] of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension is 70% compared to an intravenous dose. The bioavailability (as measured by AUCinf) of JADENU tablets was 36% greater than with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension. After strength-adjustment, the mean AUC inf of JADENU tablets (i.e., 360 mg strength) was similar to that of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (i.e., 500 mg strength) under fasting conditions; however the mean C max was increased by 30%. The 30% increase in C max observed with JADENU tablets is not clinically meaningful.

The administration of JADENU tablets with a light meal (approximately 250 calories with fat content less than 7% of total calories) indicated that the AUC inf and C max were similar to that under fasting conditions. The administration of JADENU tablets with a high-fat meal (approximately 1000 calories with fat content greater than 50% of total calories), increased AUC inf by 18% and C max by 29% compared to that under fasting conditions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Granules

The bioavailability (as measured by AUC inf) of JADENU Sprinkle granules was 52% greater than with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension. After strength-adjustment, the mean AUC inf of the JADENU Sprinkle granules (i.e., 4 x 90 mg strength) was similar to that of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (i.e., 500 mg strength) under fasting conditions; however, the mean C max was increased by 34%. The 34% increase in C max observed with JADENU Sprinkle granules is not clinically meaningful.

The administration of JADENU Sprinkle granules with a soft meal (e.g., yogurt and apple sauce) or with a low-fat (approximately 450 calories with fat content approximately 30% of total calories) indicated that the AUC inf and C max after a low-fat meal or soft foods were similar to that under fasting conditions. The administration of JADENU Sprinkle granules with a high-fat meal (approximately 1000 calories with fat content greater than 50% of total calories) increased AUC inf by 18% with no changes in Cmax compared to that under fasting conditions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Distribution

Deferasirox is highly (~99%) protein bound almost exclusively to serum albumin. The percentage of deferasirox confined to the blood cells was 5% in humans. The volume of distribution at steady state (V ss) of deferasirox is 14.37 ± 2.69 L in adults.

Metabolism

Glucuronidation is the main metabolic pathway for deferasirox, with subsequent biliary excretion. Deconjugation of glucuronidates in the intestine and subsequent reabsorption (enterohepatic recycling) is likely to occur. Deferasirox is mainly glucuronidated by UGT1A1 and to a lesser extent UGT1A3. CYP450-catalyzed (oxidative) metabolism of deferasirox appears to be minor in humans (about 8%). Deconjugation of glucuronide metabolites in the intestine and subsequent reabsorption (enterohepatic recycling) was confirmed in a healthy subjects study in which the administration of cholestyramine 12 g twice daily (strongly binds to deferasirox and its conjugates) 4 and 10 hours after a single dose of deferasirox resulted in a 45% decrease in deferasirox exposure (AUC inf) by interfering with the enterohepatic recycling of deferasirox.

Excretion

Deferasirox and metabolites are primarily (84% of the dose) excreted in the feces. Renal excretion of deferasirox and metabolites is minimal (8% of the dose). The mean elimination half-life (t 1/2) ranged from 8 to 16 hours following oral administration.

Drug Interactions

Midazolam: The concomitant administration of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and CYP3A4 probe substrate midazolam resulted in a decrease of midazolam C max by 23% and AUC inf by 17%. In the clinical setting, this effect may be more pronounced, as the study was not adequately designed to conclusively assess the potential induction of CYP3A4 by deferasirox [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].

Repaglinide: The concomitant administration of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (30 mg per kg/day for 4 days) and the CYP2C8 probe substrate repaglinide (single dose of 0.5 mg) increased repaglinide AUC inf to 2.3-fold and C max of 1.6-fold [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

Theophylline: The concomitant administration of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (repeated dose of 30 mg per kg/day) and the CYP1A2 substrate theophylline (single dose of 120 mg) resulted in an approximate doubling of the theophylline AUC inf and elimination half-life. The single dose C max was not affected, but an increase in theophylline C max is expected to occur with chronic dosing [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].

Rifampicin: The concomitant administration of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (single dose of 30 mg per kg) and the strong uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) inducer rifampicin (600 mg per day for 9 days) decreased deferasirox AUC inf by 44% [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Cholestyramine: The concomitant administration of cholestyramine after a single dose of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension decreased deferasirox AUC inf by 45% [see Drug Interactions (7.6)].

In vitro studies:

Deferasirox inhibited human CYP2A6, CYP2D6, and CYP2C19 in vitro.

Deferasirox is not a substrate of P-glycoprotein, MRP1 or MRP2.

Pharmacokinetics in Specific Populations

Pediatric: Following oral administration of single or multiple doses, systemic exposure of adolescents and children to deferasirox was less than in adult patients. In children less than 6 years of age, systemic exposure was about 50% lower than in adults.

Sex: The apparent clearance is 17.5% lower in females compared to males.

Renal Impairment: Compared to patients with MDS and CLcr greater than 60 mL/min, patients with MDS and CLcr 40 to 60 mL/min (n=34) had approximately 50% higher mean deferasirox trough plasma concentrations.

Hepatic Impairment: In a single dose (20 mg/kg) study in patients with varying degrees of hepatic impairment, deferasirox exposure was increased compared to patients with normal hepatic function. The average total (free and bound) AUC inf of deferasirox increased 16% in 6 patients with mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment, and 76% in 6 patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment compared to 6 patients with normal hepatic function. The impact of severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment was assessed in only 1 patient.

13.1     Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

A 104-week oral carcinogenicity study in Wistar rats showed no evidence of carcinogenicity from deferasirox at doses up to 60 mg/kg/day (0.7 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). A 26-week oral carcinogenicity study in p53 (+/-) transgenic mice has shown no evidence of carcinogenicity from deferasirox at doses up to 200 mg/kg/day (1.2 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis) in males and 300 mg/kg/day (1.7 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis) in females.

Deferasirox was negative in the Ames test and chromosome aberration test with human peripheral blood lymphocytes. It was positive in 1 of 3 in vivo oral rat micronucleus tests.

Deferasirox at oral doses up to 75 mg/kg/day (0.9 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis) was found to have no adverse effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.