1.1 Adult Heart Failure

Sacubitril and valsartan tablets are indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adult patients with chronic heart failure. Benefits are most clearly evident in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) below normal.

LVEF is a variable measure, so use clinical judgment in deciding whom to treat [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

1.2 Pediatric Heart Failure

Sacubitril and valsartan tablet is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic heart failure with systemic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in pediatric patients aged one year and older. Sacubitril and valsartan tablet reduces NT-proBNP and is expected to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

2.1 General Considerations

Sacubitril and valsartan tablet is contraindicated with concomitant use of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. If switching from an ACE inhibitor to sacubitril and valsartan tablet allow a washout period of 36 hours between administration of the two drugs [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

2.2 Adult Heart Failure

The recommended starting dose of sacubitril and valsartan tablets is 49/51 mg orally twice-daily.

Double the dose of sacubitril and valsartan tablets after 2 to 4 weeks to the target maintenance dose of 97/103 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient.  

2.3 Pediatric Heart Failure

For the recommended dosage for pediatric patients aged 1 year and older, refer to Table 1. Take the recommended dose orally twice daily. Adjust pediatric patient doses every 2 weeks, as tolerated by the patient.

Table 1: Recommended Dose and Titration  for Pediatric Patients Using Tablets

† Use of the oral suspension recommended in these patients. Recommended mg/kg doses are of the combined amount of both sacubitril and valsartan [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

‡ Doses of 72 mg/78 mg can be achieved using three 24 mg/26 mg tablets [see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3)].

2.4 Preparation of Oral Suspension Using Tablets

Sacubitril and valsartan oral suspension can be substituted at the recommended tablet dosage in patients unable to swallow tablets.

Sacubitril and valsartan 800 mg/200 mL oral suspension can be prepared in a concentration of 4 mg/mL (sacubitril/valsartan 1.96/2.04 mg/mL). Use sacubitril and valsartan 49/51 mg tablets in the preparation of the suspension.

To make an 800 mg/200 mL (4 mg/mL) oral suspension, transfer eight tablets of sacubitril and valsartan 49/51 mg film-coated tablets into a mortar. Crush the tablets into a fine powder using a pestle. Add 60 mL of Ora-Plus® into the mortar and triturate gently with pestle for 10 minutes, to form a uniform suspension. Add 140 mL of Ora-Sweet® SF into mortar and triturate with pestle for another 10 minutes, to form a uniform suspension. Transfer the entire contents from the mortar into a clean 200 mL amber colored PET or glass bottle. Place a press-in bottle adapter and close the bottle with a child resistant cap.

The oral suspension can be stored for up to 15 days. Do not store above 25°C (77°F) and do not refrigerate. Shake before each use.

*Ora-Sweet SF® and Ora-Plus® are registered trademarks of Paddock Laboratories, Inc.

2.6 Dose Adjustment for Patients Not Taking an ACE inhibitor or ARB or Previously Taking Low Doses of These Agents

In patients not currently taking an ACE inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and for patients previously taking low doses of these agents, start sacubitril and valsartan tablets at half the usually recommended starting dose. After initiation, increase the dose every 2 to 4 weeks in adults and every 2 weeks in pediatric patients to follow the recommended dose escalation thereafter [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

Note: Initiate pediatric patients weighing 40 to 50 kg who meet this criterion at 0.8 mg/kg twice daily using the oral suspension [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].

2.7 Dose Adjustment for Severe Renal Impairment

In adults and pediatric patients with severe renal impairment estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2), start sacubitril and valsartan tablets at half the usually recommended starting dose. After initiation, increase the dose to follow the recommended dose escalation thereafter [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

Note: Initiate pediatric patients weighing 40 to 50 kg who meet this criterion at 0.8 mg/kg twice daily using the oral suspension [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].

No starting dose adjustment is needed for mild or moderate renal impairment.

2.8 Dose Adjustment for Hepatic Impairment

In adults and pediatric patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B classification), start sacubitril and valsartan tablets at half the usually recommended starting dose. After initiation, increase the dose to follow the recommended dose escalation thereafter [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

Note: Initiate pediatric patients weighing 40 to 50 kg who meet this criterion at 0.8 mg/kg twice daily using the oral suspension [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].

No starting dose adjustment is needed for mild hepatic impairment.

Use in patients with severe hepatic impairment is not recommended.

5.1 Fetal Toxicity

Sacubitril and valsartan can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. When pregnancy is detected, consider alternative drug treatment and discontinue sacubitril and valsartan. However, if there is no appropriate alternative to therapy with drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system, and if the drug is considered lifesaving for the mother, advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to the fetus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

5.2 Angioedema

Sacubitril and valsartan may cause angioedema [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. If angioedema occurs, discontinue sacubitril and valsartan immediately, provide appropriate therapy, and monitor for airway compromise. Sacubitril and valsartan must not be re-administered. In cases of confirmed angioedema where swelling has been confined to the face and lips, the condition has generally resolved without treatment, although antihistamines have been useful in relieving symptoms.

Angioedema associated with laryngeal edema may be fatal. Where there is involvement of the tongue, glottis or larynx, likely to cause airway obstruction, administer appropriate therapy, e.g., subcutaneous epinephrine/adrenaline solution 1:1000 (0.3 mL to 0.5 mL) and take measures necessary to ensure maintenance of a patent airway.

Sacubitril and valsartan has been associated with a higher rate of angioedema in Black than in non-Black patients.

Patients with a prior history of angioedema may be at increased risk of angioedema with sacubitril and valsartan [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Sacubitril and valsartan must not be  used in patients with a known history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor or ARB therapy [see Contraindications (4)]. Sacubitril and valsartan should not be used in patients with hereditary angioedema.

5.3 Hypotension

Sacubitril and valsartan lowers blood pressure and may cause symptomatic hypotension [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Patients with an activated renin-angiotensin system, such as volume- and/or salt-depleted patients (e.g., those being treated with high doses of diuretics), are at greater risk. Correct volume or salt depletion prior to administration of sacubitril and valsartan or start at a lower dose. If hypotension occurs, consider dose adjustment of diuretics, concomitant antihypertensive drugs, and treatment of other causes of hypotension (e.g., hypovolemia). If hypotension persists despite such measures, reduce the dosage or temporarily discontinue sacubitril and valsartan. Permanent discontinuation of therapy is usually not required.

5.4 Impaired Renal Function

As a consequence of inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), decreases in renal function may be anticipated in susceptible individuals treated with sacubitril and valsartan [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. In patients whose renal function depends upon the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (e.g., patients with severe congestive heart failure), treatment with ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor antagonists has been associated with oliguria, progressive azotemia and, rarely, acute renal failure and death. Closely monitor serum creatinine, and down-titrate or interrupt sacubitril and valsartan in patients who develop a clinically significant decrease in renal function [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

As with all drugs that affect the RAAS, sacubitril and valsartan may increase blood urea and serum creatinine levels in patients with bilateral or unilateral renal artery stenosis. In patients with renal artery stenosis, monitor renal function.

5.5 Hyperkalemia

Through its actions on the RAAS, hyperkalemia may occur with sacubitril and valsartan [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].  Monitor serum potassium periodically and treat appropriately, especially in patients with risk factors for hyperkalemia such as severe renal impairment, diabetes, hypoaldosteronism, or a high potassium diet. Dosage reduction or interruption of sacubitril and valsartan may be required [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].

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.

A total of 6,622 heart failure patients were treated with sacubitril and valsartan in the PARADIGM-HF (vs. enalapril) and PARAGON-HF (vs. valsartan) clinical trials. Of these, 5,085 were exposed for at least 1 year.

Adult Heart Failure

In PARADIGM-HF, patients were required to complete sequential enalapril and sacubitril and valsartan run-in periods of (median) 15 and 29 days, respectively, prior to entering the randomized double-blind period comparing sacubitril and valsartan and enalapril. During the enalapril run-in period, 1,102 patients (10.5%) were permanently discontinued from the study, 5.6% because of an adverse event, most commonly renal dysfunction (1.7%), hyperkalemia (1.7%) and hypotension (1.4%).  During the sacubitril and valsartan run-in period, an additional 10.4% of patients permanently discontinued treatment, 5.9% because of an adverse event, most commonly renal dysfunction (1.8%), hypotension (1.7%) and hyperkalemia (1.3%). Because of this run-in design, the adverse reaction rates described below are lower than expected in practice.

In the double-blind period, safety was evaluated in 4,203 patients treated with sacubitril and valsartan and 4,229 treated with enalapril. In PARADIGM-HF, patients randomized to sacubitril and valsartan received treatment for up to 4.3 years, with a median duration of exposure of 24 months; 3,271 patients were treated for more than one year. Discontinuation of therapy because of an adverse event during the double-blind period occurred in 450 (10.7%) of sacubitril and valsartan-treated patients and 516 (12.2%) of patients receiving enalapril.

Adverse reactions occurring at an incidence of greater than or equal to 5% in patients who were treated with sacubitril and valsartan in the double-blind period of PARADIGM-HF are shown in Table 3.

In PARADIGM-HF, the incidence of angioedema was 0.1% in both the enalapril and sacubitril and valsartan run-in periods. In the double-blind period, the incidence of angioedema was higher in patients treated with sacubitril and valsartan than enalapril (0.5% and 0.2%, respectively). The incidence of angioedema in Black patients was 2.4% with sacubitril and valsartan and 0.5% with enalapril [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Orthostasis was reported in 2.1% of patients treated with sacubitril and valsartan compared to 1.1% of patients treated with enalapril during the double-blind period of PARADIGM-HF. Falls were reported in 1.9% of patients treated with sacubitril and valsartan compared to 1.3% of patients treated with enalapril.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions Reported in greater than or equal to 5% of Patients Treated with Sacubitril and Valsartan in the Double-Blind Period of PARADIGM-HF

In PARAGON-HF, no new adverse reactions were identified.

Pediatric Heart Failure
The adverse reactions observed in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 18 years old who received treatment with sacubitril and valsartan were consistent with those observed in adult patients.

Laboratory Abnormalities

Hemoglobin and Hematocrit

Decreases in hemoglobin/hematocrit of greater than 20% were observed in approximately 5% of both sacubitril and valsartan- and enalapril­-treated patients in the double-blind period in PARADIGM-HF. Decreases in hemoglobin/hematocrit of greater than 20% were observed in approximately 7% of sacubitril and valsartan-treated patients and 9% of valsartan-treated patients in the double-blind period in PARAGON-HF.

Serum Creatinine

During the double-blind period in PARADIGM-HF, approximately 16% of both sacubitril and valsartan -and enalapril-treated patients had increases in serum creatinine of greater than 50%. During the double-blind period in PARAGON-HF, approximately 17% of sacubitril and valsartan-treated patients and 21% of valsartan-treated patients had increases in serum creatinine of  greater than 50%. 

Serum Potassium

During the double-blind period of PARADIGM-HF, approximately 16% of both sacubitril and valsartan-and enalapril-treated patients had potassium concentrations greater than 5.5 mEq/L. During the double-blind period of PARAGON-HF, approximately 18% of sacubitril and valsartan-treated patients and 20% of valsartan-treated patients had potassium concentrations greater than 5.5 mEq/L. 

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

 The following additional adverse reactions have been reported in postmarketing experience. 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.

Hypersensitivity including rash, pruritus, and anaphylactic reaction

7.1 Dual Blockade of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System

Concomitant use of sacubitril and valsartan with an ACE inhibitor is contraindicated because of the increased risk of angioedema [see Contraindications (4)].

Avoid use of sacubitril and valsartan with an ARB, because sacubitril and valsartan contains the angiotensin II receptor blocker valsartan.

The concomitant use of sacubitril and valsartan with aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes [see Contraindications (4)]. Avoid use with aliskiren in patients with renal impairment (eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2).

7.2 Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

As with other drugs that block angiotensin II or its effects, concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

7.3 Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Including Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors (COX-2 Inhibitors)

In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or with compromised renal function, concomitant use of NSAIDs, including COX-2 inhibitors, with sacubitril and valsartan may result in worsening of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Monitor renal function periodically.

7.4 Lithium

Increases in serum lithium concentrations and lithium toxicity have been reported during concomitant administration of lithium with angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Monitor serum lithium levels during concomitant use with sacubitril and valsartan.

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Sacubitril and valsartan can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death (see Clinical Considerations). Most epidemiologic studies examining fetal abnormalities after exposure to antihypertensive use in the first trimester have not distinguished drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system from other antihypertensive agents. In animal reproduction studies, sacubitril and valsartan treatment during organogenesis resulted in increased embryo-fetal lethality in rats and rabbits and teratogenicity in rabbits (see Data). When pregnancy is detected, consider alternative drug treatment and discontinue sacubitril and valsartan. However, if there is no appropriate alternative to therapy with drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system, and if the drug is considered lifesaving for the mother, advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to the fetus.

The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes.   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.

Clinical Considerations

Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions

Oligohydramnios in pregnant women who use drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can result in the following: reduced fetal renal function leading to anuria and renal failure, fetal lung hypoplasia, skeletal deformations, including skull hypoplasia, hypotension, and death.

Perform serial ultrasound examinations to assess the intra-amniotic environment. Fetal testing may be appropriate, based on the week of gestation. Patients and physicians should be aware, however, that oligohydramnios may not appear until after the fetus has sustained irreversible injury. If oligohydramnios is observed, consider alternative drug treatment. Closely observe neonates with histories of in utero exposure to sacubitril and valsartan for hypotension, oliguria, and hyperkalemia. In neonates with a history of in utero exposure to sacubitril and valsartan, if oliguria or hypotension occurs, support blood pressure and renal perfusion. Exchange transfusions or dialysis may be required as a means of reversing hypotension and replacing renal function.

Data

Animal Data

Sacubitril and valsartan treatment during organogenesis resulted in increased embryo-fetal lethality in rats at doses greater than or equal to 49 mg sacubitril/51 mg valsartan/kg/day (less than or equal to 0.06 [LBQ657, the active metabolite] and 0.72 [valsartan]-fold the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of 97/103 mg twice-daily on the basis of the area under the plasma drug concentration-time curve [AUC]) and rabbits at doses greater than or equal to 5 mg sacubitril/5 mg valsartan/kg/day (2-fold and 0.03-fold the MRHD on the basis of valsartan and LBQ657 AUC, respectively). Sacubitril and valsartan is teratogenic based on a low incidence of fetal hydrocephaly, associated with maternally toxic doses, which was observed in rabbits at a sacubitril and valsartan dose of greater than or equal to 5 mg sacubitril/5 mg valsartan/kg/day. The adverse embryo-fetal effects of sacubitril and valsartan are attributed to the angiotensin receptor antagonist activity.

Pre- and postnatal development studies in rats at sacubitril doses up to 750 mg/kg/day (2.2-fold the MRHD on the basis of LBQ657 AUC) and valsartan at doses up to 600 mg/kg/day (0.86-fold the MRHD on the basis of AUC) indicate that treatment with sacubitril and valsartan during organogenesis, gestation and lactation may affect pup development and survival.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There is no information regarding the presence of sacubitril/valsartan in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Sacubitril/valsartan is present in rat milk (see Data).  Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from exposure to sacubitril/valsartan, advise a nursing woman that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with sacubitril and valsartan.

Data

Following an oral dose (15 mg sacubitril/15 mg valsartan/kg) of [14C] sacubitril and valsartan to lactating rats, transfer of LBQ657 into milk was observed. After a single oral administration of 3 mg/kg [14C] valsartan to lactating rats, transfer of valsartan into milk was observed.

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of sacubitril and valsartan have been established for the treatment of heart failure in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 18 years. Use of sacubitril and valsartan was evaluated in a multinational, randomized, double-blind trial comparing sacubitril and valsartan and enalapril in 375 patients aged 1 month to less than 18 years (sacubitril and valsartan n = 187; Enalapril n = 188) (PANORAMA-HF) [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. The safety profile in pediatric patients (1 year to less than 18 years) receiving sacubitril and valsartan was similar to that seen in adult patients. 

Limited safety and efficacy data in patients aged 1 month to less than 1 year were inadequate to support conclusions on safety and efficacy in this age  group.

Juvenile Animal Toxicity Data

Sacubitril given orally to juvenile rats from postnatal day (PND) 7 to PND 35 or PND 70 (an age approximately equivalent to neonatal through pre-pubertal development or adulthood in humans) at doses greater than or equal to 400 mg/kg/day (approximately 2-fold the AUC exposure to the active metabolite of sacubitril, LBQ657, at an sacubitril and valsartan pediatric clinical dose of 3.1 mg/kg twice daily) resulted in decreases in body weight, bone length, and bone mass. The decrease in body weight was transient from PND 10 to PND 20 and the effects for most bone parameters were reversible after treatment stopped. Exposure at the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level (NOAEL) of 100 mg/kg/day was approximately 0.5-fold the AUC exposure to LBQ657 at the 3.1 mg/kg twice daily dose of sacubitril and valsartan. The mechanism underlying bone effects in rats and the translatability to pediatric patients are unknown.  

Valsartan given orally to juvenile rats from PND 7 to PND 70 (an age approximately equivalent to neonatal through adulthood in humans) produced persistent, irreversible kidney damage at all dose levels. Exposure at the lowest tested dose of 1 mg/kg/day was approximately 0.2-fold the exposure at 3.1 mg/kg twice daily dose of sacubitril and valsartan based on AUC. These kidney effects in neonatal rats represent expected exaggerated pharmacological effects that are observed if rats are treated during the first 13 days of life.  This period coincides with 36 weeks of gestation in humans, which could occasionally extend up to 44 weeks after conception in humans. In humans, nephrogenesis is thought to be complete around birth; however, maturation of other aspects of kidney function (such as glomerular filtration and tubular function) may continue until approximately 2 years of age. It is unknown whether post-natal use of valsartan before maturation of renal function is complete has long-term deleterious effects on the kidney. 

8.5 Geriatric Use

There were 4,143 and 3,971 heart failure patients 65 years of age and older in PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF, respectively [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Of the total number of sacubitril and valsartan-treated patients, 2,087 (49.6%) and 1,995 (82.9%) were 65 years of age and older, while 786 (18.7%) and 1,100 (45.7%) were 75 years of age and older in PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF, respectively. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of ENTRESTO have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger adult patients in either study.

No relevant pharmacokinetic differences have been observed in elderly (≥ 65 years) or very elderly (≥ 75 years) patients compared to the overall population [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

No dose adjustment is required when administering sacubitril and valsartan to patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A classification). Half of the starting dose is recommended in adult and pediatric patients with heart failure and with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B classification). The use of sacubitril and valsartan in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C classification) is not recommended, as no studies have been conducted in these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.8) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.7 Renal Impairment

No dose adjustment is required in patients with mild (eGFR 60 to 90 mL/min/1.73 m2) to moderate (eGFR 30 to 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) renal impairment. Half of the starting dose is recommended in adult and pediatric patients with heart failure and with severe renal impairment (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2). [see Dosage and Administration (2.7), Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Sacubitril and valsartan contains a neprilysin inhibitor, sacubitril, and an angiotensin receptor blocker, valsartan. Sacubitril and valsartan inhibits neprilysin (neutral endopeptidase; NEP) via LBQ657, the active metabolite of the prodrug sacubitril, and blocks the angiotensin II type-1 (AT1) receptor via valsartan. The cardiovascular and renal effects of sacubitril and valsartan in heart failure patients are attributed to the increased levels of peptides that are degraded by neprilysin, such as natriuretic peptides, by LBQ657, and the simultaneous inhibition of the effects of angiotensin II by valsartan. Valsartan inhibits the effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the AT1 receptor, and also inhibits angiotensin II-dependent aldosterone release.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of sacubitril and valsartan were evaluated after single and multiple dose administrations in healthy subjects and in patients with heart failure, and are consistent with simultaneous neprilysin inhibition and renin-angiotensin system blockade.

In a 7-day valsartan-controlled study in patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), administration of sacubitril and valsartan resulted in a significant non-sustained increase in natriuresis, increased urine cGMP, and decreased plasma MR-proANP and NT-proBNP compared to valsartan.

In a 21-day study in HFrEF patients, sacubitril and valsartan significantly increased urine ANP and cGMP and plasma cGMP, and decreased plasma NT-proBNP, aldosterone and endothelin-1. Sacubitril and valsartan also blocked the AT1-receptor as evidenced by increased plasma renin activity and plasma renin concentrations. In PARADIGM-HF, sacubitril and valsartan decreased plasma NT­-proBNP (not a neprilysin substrate) and increased plasma BNP (a neprilysin substrate) and urine cGMP compared with enalapril.

In PARAMOUNT, a randomized, double-blind, 36-week study in patients with heart failure with LVEF greater than or equal to 45% comparing 97/103 mg of sacubitril and valsartan (n=149) to 160 mg of valsartan (n =152) twice-daily, sacubitril and valsartan decreased NT-proBNP by 17% while valsartan increased NT-proBNP by 8% at Week 12 (p = 0.005).

In PARAGON-HF, sacubitril and valsartan decreased NT-proBNP by 24% (Week 16) and 19% (Week 48) compared to 6% and 3% reductions on valsartan, respectively.

In PANORAMA-HF, a reduction in NT-proBNP was observed at Weeks 4 and 12 for sacubitril and valsartan (40% and 50%) compared to baseline. The NT-proBNP levels continued to decrease over the duration of the study with a reduction of 65% for sacubitril and valsartan at Week 52 compared to baseline. 

QT Prolongation: In a thorough QTc clinical study in healthy male subjects, single doses of sacubitril and valsartan 194 mg sacubitril/206 mg valsartan and 583 mg sacubitril/617 mg valsartan had no effect on cardiac repolarization.

Amyloid-β: Neprilysin is one of multiple enzymes involved in the clearance of amyloid-β (Aβ) from the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Administration of sacubitril and valsartan 194 mg sacubitril/206 mg valsartan once-daily for 2 weeks to healthy subjects was associated with an increase in CSF Aβ1-38compared to placebo; there were no changes in concentrations of CSF Aβ1-40 or CSF Aβ1-42. The clinical relevance of this finding is unknown [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13)].

Blood Pressure: Addition of a 50 mg single dose of sildenafil to sacubitril and valsartan at steady state (194 mg sacubitril/206 mg valsartan once daily for 5 days) in patients with hypertension was associated with additional blood pressure (BP) reduction (approximately 5/4 mmHg, systolic/diastolic BP) compared to administration of sacubitril and valsartan alone.

Co-administration of sacubitril and valsartan did not significantly alter the BP effect of intravenous nitroglycerin.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Following oral administration, sacubitril and valsartan dissociates into sacubitril and valsartan. Sacubitril is further metabolized to LBQ657. The peak plasma concentrations of sacubitril, LBQ657, and valsartan are reached in 0.5 hours, 2 hours, and 1.5 hours, respectively. The oral absolute bioavailability of sacubitril is estimated to be greater than or equal to 60%. The valsartan in sacubitril and valsartan is more bioavailable than the valsartan in other marketed tablet formulations; 26 mg, 51 mg, and 103 mg of valsartan in sacubitril and valsartan is equivalent to 40 mg, 80 mg, and 160 mg of valsartan in other marketed tablet formulations, respectively.

Following twice-daily dosing of sacubitril and valsartan, steady-state levels of sacubitril, LBQ657, and valsartan are reached in 3 days. At steady state, sacubitril and valsartan do not accumulate significantly, whereas LBQ657 accumulates by 1.6-fold. Sacubitril and valsartan administration with food has no clinically significant effect on the systemic exposures of sacubitril, LBQ657, or valsartan. Although there is a decrease in exposure to valsartan when sacubitril and valsartan is administered with food, this decrease is not accompanied by a clinically significant reduction in the therapeutic effect. Sacubitril and valsartan can therefore be administered with or without food.

Distribution

Sacubitril, LBQ657 and valsartan are highly bound to plasma proteins (94% to 97%). Based on the comparison of plasma and CSF exposures, LBQ657 crosses the blood brain barrier to a limited extent (0.28%). The average apparent volumes of distribution of valsartan and sacubitril are 75 and 103 L, respectively.

Metabolism

Sacubitril is readily converted to LBQ657 by esterases; LBQ657 is not further metabolized to a significant extent. Valsartan is minimally metabolized; only about 20% of the dose is recovered as metabolites. A hydroxyl metabolite has been identified in plasma at low concentrations (less than 10%).

Elimination

Following oral administration, 52% to 68% of sacubitril (primarily as LBQ657) and approximately 13% of valsartan and its metabolites are excreted in urine; 37% to 48% of sacubitril (primarily as LBQ657), and 86% of valsartan and its metabolites are excreted in feces. Sacubitril, LBQ657, and valsartan are eliminated from plasma with a mean elimination half-life (T1/2) of approximately 1.4 hours, 11.5 hours, and 9.9 hours, respectively.

Linearity/Nonlinearity

The pharmacokinetics of sacubitril, LBQ657, and valsartan were linear over a sacubitril and valsartan dose range of 24 mg sacubitril/26 mg valsartan to 194 mg sacubitril/206 mg valsartan.

Drug Interactions:

Effect of Co-administered Drugs on Sacubitril and Valsartan:

Because CYP450 enzyme-mediated metabolism of sacubitril and valsartan is minimal, coadministration with drugs that impact CYP450 enzymes is not expected to affect the pharmacokinetics of sacubitril and valsartan. Dedicated drug interaction studies demonstrated that coadministration of furosemide, warfarin, digoxin, carvedilol, a combination of levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol, amlodipine, omeprazole, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), metformin, atorvastatin, and sildenafil, did not alter the systemic exposure to sacubitril, LBQ657 or valsartan.

Effect of Sacubitril and Valsartan on Co-administered Drugs:

In vitro data indicate that sacubitril inhibits OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 transporters. The effects of sacubitril and valsartan on the pharmacokinetics of coadministered drugs are summarized in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Effect of Sacubitril and Valsartan on Pharmacokinetics of Coadministered Drugs



Specific Populations
Effect of specific populations on the pharmacokinetics of LBQ657 and valsartan are shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Pharmacokinetics of Sacubitril and Valsartan in Specific Populations

Note: Child-Pugh Classification was used for hepatic impairment. 

Pediatric Patients:
The pharmacokinetics of sacubitril and valsartan were evaluated in pediatric heart failure patients 1 to less than 18 years old administered oral doses of 0.8 mg/kg and 3.1 mg/kg of sacubitril and valsartan. Pharmacokinetic data indicated that exposure to sacubitril and valsartan in pediatric and adult patients is similar.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis

Carcinogenicity studies conducted in mice and rats with sacubitril and valsartan did not identify any carcinogenic potential for sacubitril and valsartan. The LBQ657 Cmaxat the high dose (HD) of 1200 mg/kg/day in male and female mice was, respectively, 14 and 16 times that in humans at the MRHD. The LBQ657 Cmaxin male and female rats at the HD of 400 mg/kg/day was, respectively, 1.7 and 3.5 times that at the MRHD. The doses of valsartan studied (high dose of 160 and 200 mg/kg/day in mice and rats, respectively) were about 4 and 10 times, respectively, the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis.

Mutagenicity and clastogenicity studies conducted with sacubitril and valsartan, sacubitril, and valsartan did not reveal any effects at either the gene or chromosome level.

Impairment of Fertility

Sacubitril and valsartan did not show any effects on fertility in rats up to a dose of 73 mg sacubitril/77 mg valsartan/kg/day (≤1­-fold and ≤0.18-fold the MRHD on the basis of the AUCs of valsartan and LBQ657, respectively).

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

The effects of sacubitril and valsartan on amyloid-β concentrations in CSF and brain tissue were assessed in young (2 to 4 years old) cynomolgus monkeys treated with sacubitril and valsartan (24 mg sacubitril/26 mg valsartan/kg/day) for 2 weeks. In this study, sacubitril and valsartan affected CSF Aβ clearance, increasing CSF Aβ 1 to 40, 1 to 42, and 1 to 38 levels in CSF; there was no corresponding increase in Aβ levels in the brain. In addition, in a toxicology study in cynomolgus monkeys treated with sacubitril and valsartan at 146 mg sacubitril/154 mg valsartan/kg/day for 39-weeks, there was no amyloid-β accumulation in the brain.

14.1 Adult Heart Failure

PARADIGM-HF

PARADIGM-HF was a multinational, randomized, double-blind trial comparing sacubitril and valsartan and enalapril in 8,442 adult patients with symptomatic chronic heart failure (NYHA class II to IV) and systolic dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%). Patients had to have been on an ACE inhibitor or ARB for at least four weeks and on maximally tolerated doses of beta-blockers. Patients with a systolic blood pressure of less than 100 mmHg at screening were excluded.

The primary objective of PARADIGM-HF was to determine whether sacubitril and valsartan, a combination of sacubitril and an RAS inhibitor (valsartan), was superior to an RAS inhibitor (enalapril) alone in reducing the risk of the combined endpoint of cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for heart failure (HF).

After discontinuing their existing ACE inhibitor or ARB therapy, patients entered sequential single-blind run-in periods during which they received enalapril 10 mg twice-daily, followed by sacubitril and valsartan 100 mg twice-daily, increasing to 200 mg twice daily. Patients who successfully completed the sequential run-in periods were randomized to receive either sacubitril and valsartan 200 mg (N = 4,209) twice-daily or enalapril 10 mg (N = 4,233) twice-daily. The primary endpoint was the first event in the composite of CV death or hospitalization for HF. The median follow-up duration was 27 months and patients were treated for up to 4.3 years.

The population was 66% Caucasian, 18% Asian, and 5% Black; the mean age was 64 years and 78% were male. At randomization, 70% of patients were NYHA Class II, 24% were NYHA Class III, and 0.7% were NYHA Class IV. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 29%. The underlying cause of heart failure was coronary artery disease in 60% of patients; 71% had a history of hypertension, 43% had a history of myocardial infarction, 37% had an eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73m2, and 35% had diabetes mellitus. Most patients were taking beta-blockers (94%), mineralocorticoid antagonists (58%), and diuretics (82%). Few patients had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) (15%).

PARADIGM-HF demonstrated that sacubitril and valsartan, an combination of sacubitril and a RAS inhibitor (valsartan), was superior to a RAS inhibitor (enalapril), in reducing the risk of the combined endpoint of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure, based on a time-to-event analysis (hazard ratio [HR] 0.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73, 0.87, p < 0.0001). The treatment effect reflected a reduction in both cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization; see Table 4 and Figure 3. Sudden death accounted for 45% of cardiovascular deaths, followed by pump failure, which accounted for 26%.

Sacubitril and valsartan also improved overall survival (HR 0.84; 95% CI [0.76, 0.93], p = 0.0009) (Table 4). This finding was driven entirely by a lower incidence of cardiovascular mortality on sacubitril and valsartan.

 Table 4: Treatment Effect for the Primary Composite Endpoint, Its Components, and All-cause Mortality in PARADIGM-HF

*Analyses of the components of the primary composite endpoint were not prospectively planned to be adjusted  for multiplicity.

**Includes patients who had heart failure hospitalization prior to death.

The Kaplan-Meier curves presented below (Figure 3) show time to first occurrence of the primary composite endpoint (3A), and time to occurrence of cardiovascular death at any time (3B) and first heart failure hospitalization (3C).

Figure 3: Kaplan-Meier Curves for the Primary Composite Endpoint (A), Cardiovascular Death (B), and Heart Failure Hospitalization (C)

A wide range of demographic characteristics, baseline disease characteristics, and baseline concomitant medications were examined for their influence on outcomes. The results of the primary composite endpoint were consistent across the subgroups examined (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Primary Composite Endpoint (CV Death or HF Hospitalization) - Subgroup Analysis (PARADIGM-HF)

Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups, all of which are baseline characteristics. The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account the number of comparisons made, and may not reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors. Apparent homogeneity or heterogeneity among groups should not be over-interpreted.

PARAGON-HF

PARAGON-HF, was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial comparing sacubitril and valsartan and valsartan in 4,796 adult patients with symptomatic heart failure with left ventricular ejection fraction greater than or equal to 45%, and structural heart disease [either left atrial enlargement (LAE) or left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH)]. Patients with a systolic blood pressure of less than 110 mmHg and patients with any prior echocardiographic LVEF less than 40% at screening were excluded.

The primary objective of PARAGON-HF was to determine whether sacubitril and valsartan reduced the rate of the composite endpoint of total (first and recurrent) heart failure (HF) hospitalizations and cardiovascular (CV) death.

After discontinuing their existing ACE inhibitor or ARB therapy, patients entered sequential single-blind run-in periods during which they received valsartan 80 mg twice-daily, followed by sacubitril and valsartan 100 mg twice-daily. Patients on prior low doses of an ACEi or ARB began the run-in period receiving valsartan 40 mg twice-daily for 1 to 2 weeks. Patients who successfully completed the sequential run-in periods were randomized to receive either sacubitril and valsartan 200 mg (N = 2,419) twice-daily or valsartan 160 mg (N = 2,403) twice-daily. The median follow-up duration was 35 months and patients were treated for up to 4.7 years.

The population was 81% Caucasian, 13% Asian, and 2% Black; the mean age was 73 years and 52% were female. At randomization, 77% of patients were NYHA Class II, 19% were NYHA Class III, and 0.4% were NYHA Class IV. The median left ventricular ejection fraction was 57%. The underlying cause of heart failure was of ischemic etiology in 36% of patients. Furthermore, 96% had a history of hypertension, 23% had a history of myocardial infarction, 46% had an eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 43% had diabetes mellitus. Most patients were taking beta-blockers (80%) and diuretics (95%).

PARAGON-HF demonstrated that sacubitril and valsartan had a numerical reduction in the rate of the composite endpoint of total (first and recurrent) HF hospitalizations and CV death, based on an analysis using a proportional rates model (rate ratio [RR] 0.87; 95% CI [0.75, 1.01], p = 0.06); see Table 5 The treatment effect was primarily driven by the reduction in total HF hospitalizations in patients randomized to sacubitril and valsartan (RR 0.85; 95% CI [0.72, 1]).

Table 5: Treatment Effect for the Primary Composite Endpoint and Its Components in PARAGON-HF

Abbreviations: RR = rate ratio, HR = hazard ratio.

a Event rate per 100 patient-years.

b Includes patients who had CV death following HF hospitalization event.

Figure 5 shows the mean number of composite endpoint events of total HF hospitalizations and CV death over time.

Figure 5: Mean Number of Events Over Time for the Primary Composite Endpoint of Total HF Hospitalizations and CV Death

A wide range of demographic characteristics, baseline disease characteristics, and baseline concomitant medications were examined for their influence on outcomes (Figure 6).

Figure 6: Primary Composite Endpoint of Total HF Hospitalizations and CV Death – Subgroup Analysis (PARAGON-HF)

Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups, all of which are baseline characteristics. The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account the number of comparisons made, and may not reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors.

In an analysis of the relationship between LVEF and outcome in PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF, patients with LVEF below normal treated with sacubitril and valsartan experienced greater risk reduction (Figure 7).

Figure 7: Treatment Effect for the Composite Endpoint of Time to First HF Hospitalization or CV Death by LVEF in PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF

14.2 Pediatric Heart Failure

The efficacy of sacubitril and valsartan was evaluated in a multinational, randomized, double-blind trial PANORAMA-HF comparing sacubitril and valsartan (n = 187) and enalapril (n = 188) in pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 18 years old due to systemic left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVEF ≤ 45% or fractional shortening ≤ 22.5%). Patients with systemic right ventricle, single ventricle, restrictive cardiomyopathy or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy were excluded from the trial. Efficacy of sacubitril and valsartan in patients less than 1 year old was not established. At Week 52, there were 144 sacubitril and valsartan and 133 enalapril patients with a post-baseline assessment of NT-proBNP. The estimated least squares mean percent reduction from baseline in NT-proBNP was 65% and 62% in the sacubitril and valsartan and enalapril groups, respectively. While the between-group difference was not nominally statistically significant, the reductions for sacubitril and valsartan and enalapril were larger than what was seen in adults; these reductions did not appear to be attributable to post-baseline changes in background therapy.

Because sacubitril and valsartan improved outcomes and reduced NT-proBNP in adults in PARADIGM-HF, the effect on NTproBNP was the basis to infer improved cardiovascular outcomes in pediatric patients.