2.1 Assessment Prior to Initiating TASCENSO ODT

2.2 Important Administration Instructions

Patients who initiate TASCENSO ODT, and those who reinitiate treatment after discontinuation for longer than 14 days, require first- dose monitoring. This monitoring is also recommended when the dose is increased in pediatric patients. Patients who are currently treated with another fingolimod product and underwent first-dose monitoring at initiation may be switched to TASCENSO ODT at the same daily dose without a need to repeat first-dose monitoring (unless the previous treatment was discontinued more than 14 days prior) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4, 2.5)].

TASCENSO ODT can be taken with or without food.

Inform the patient about the following administration instructions for TASCENSO ODT:

• Store the orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) in the sealed blister until ready to administer.
• Do not push the ODT through the lidding foil.
• Use dry hands when opening the blister pack.
• Peel back the lidding foil from one blister, then push the underside of the foil packet to release the ODT and gently remove the ODT.
• Take the ODT immediately after opening the blister pack.
• Place the ODT on the tongue and allow it to dissolve before swallowing.
• The ODT may be taken with or without water.

2.3 Recommended Dosage

In adults and pediatric patients 10 years of age and older weighing more than 40 kg, the recommended dosage of TASCENSO ODT is 0.5 mg orally once-daily.

In pediatric patients 10 years of age and older weighing less than or equal to 40 kg, the recommended dosage of TASCENSO ODT is 0.25 mg orally once daily.

Fingolimod doses higher than 0.5 mg are associated with a greater incidence of adverse reactions without additional benefit.

2.4 First-Dose Monitoring

Initiation of TASCENSO ODT treatment results in a decrease in heart rate, for which monitoring is recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period, obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) in all patients.

2.5 Monitoring After Reinitiation of Therapy Following Discontinuation

When restarting TASCENSO ODT treatment after discontinuation for more than 14 days after the first month of treatment, perform first-dose monitoring, because effects on heart rate and AV conduction may recur on reintroduction of TASCENSO ODT treatment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. The same precautions (first-dose monitoring) as for initial dosing are applicable. Within the first 2 weeks of treatment, first-dose procedures are recommended after interruption of 1 day or more; during Weeks 3 and 4 of treatment, first-dose procedures are recommended after treatment interruption of more than 7 days.

5.1 Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Blocks

Because of a risk for bradyarrhythmia and AV blocks, patients should be monitored during TASCENSO ODT treatment initiation [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

5.2 Infections

5.3 Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have occurred in patients with MS who received fingolimod, the active moiety in TASCENSO ODT, in the postmarketing setting. PML is an opportunistic viral infection of the brain caused by the JC virus (JCV) that typically only occurs in patients who are immunocompromised, and that usually leads to death or severe disability. PML has occurred in patients who had not been treated previously with natalizumab, which has a known association with PML, were not taking any other immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory medications concomitantly and did not have any ongoing systemic medical conditions resulting in compromised immune system function. Longer treatment duration increases the risk of PML in fingolimod-treated patients; the majority of cases have occurred in patients treated with fingolimod for at least 18 months.

At the first sign or symptom suggestive of PML, withhold TASCENSO ODT and perform an appropriate diagnostic evaluation. Typical symptoms associated with PML are diverse, progress over days to weeks, and include progressive weakness on one side of the body or clumsiness of limbs, disturbance of vision, and changes in thinking, memory, and orientation leading to confusion and personality changes.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings may be apparent before clinical signs or symptoms. Cases of PML, diagnosed based on MRI findings and the detection of JCV DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid in the absence of clinical signs or symptoms specific to PML, have been reported in patients treated with MS medications associated with PML, including fingolimod. Many of these patients subsequently became symptomatic with PML. Therefore, monitoring with MRI for signs that may be consistent with PML may be useful, and any suspicious findings should lead to further investigation to allow for an early diagnosis of PML, if present. Lower PML-related mortality and morbidity have been reported following discontinuation of another MS medication associated with PML in patients with PML who were initially asymptomatic compared to patients with PML who had characteristic clinical signs and symptoms at diagnosis. It is not known whether these differences are due to early detection and discontinuation of MS treatment or due to differences in disease in these patients.

If PML is confirmed, treatment with TASCENSO ODT should be discontinued.

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) has been reported in patients treated with S1P receptor modulators, including fingolimod, who developed PML and subsequently discontinued treatment. IRIS presents as a clinical decline in the patient’s condition that may be rapid, can lead to serious neurological complications or death, and is often associated with characteristic changes on MRI. The time to onset of IRIS in patients with PML was generally within a few months after S1P receptor modulator discontinuation. Monitoring for development of IRIS and appropriate treatment of the associated inflammation should be undertaken.

5.4 Macular Edema

S1P receptor modulators, including TASCENSO ODT, have been associated with an increased risk of macular edema. Obtain a baseline evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, near the start of treatment with TASCENSO ODT. Perform an examination of the fundus, including the macula, 3 to 4 months after starting treatment, periodically while on therapy, and any time there is a change in vision.

A dose-dependent increase in the risk of macular edema occurred in the fingolimod capsules clinical development program.

In 2-year double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in adult patients with multiple sclerosis, macular edema with or without visual symptoms occurred in 1.5% of patients (11/799) treated with fingolimod 1.25 mg capsules, 0.5% of patients (4/783) treated with fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules, and 0.4% of patients (3/773) treated with placebo. Macular edema occurred predominantly during the first 3 to 4 months of therapy. These clinical trials excluded patients with diabetes mellitus, a known risk factor for macular edema (see below Macular Edema in Patients with History of Uveitis or Diabetes Mellitus). Symptoms of macular edema included blurred vision and decreased visual acuity. Routine ophthalmological examination detected macular edema in some patients with no visual symptoms. Macular edema generally partially or completely resolved with or without treatment after drug discontinuation. Some patients had residual visual acuity loss even after resolution of macular edema. Macular edema has also been reported in patients taking fingolimod in the postmarketing setting, usually within the first 6 months of treatment.

Continuation of TASCENSO ODT in patients who develop macular edema has not been evaluated. Macular edema over an extended period of time (i.e., 6 months) can lead to permanent visual loss. Consider discontinuing TASCENSO ODT if macular edema develops; this decision should include an assessment of the potential benefits and risks for the individual patient. The risk of recurrence after rechallenge has not been evaluated.

5.5 Liver Injury

Clinically significant liver injury has occurred in patients treated with fingolimod in the postmarketing setting. Signs of liver injury, including markedly elevated serum hepatic enzymes and elevated total bilirubin, have occurred as early as ten days after the first dose and have also been reported after prolonged use. Cases of acute liver failure requiring liver transplant have been reported.

In 2-year placebo-controlled clinical trials in adult patients, elevation of liver enzymes (ALT, AST and GGT) to 3-fold the upper limit of normal (ULN) or greater occurred in 14% of patients treated with fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules and 3% of patients on placebo. Elevations 5-fold the ULN or greater occurred in 4.5% of patients on fingolimod capsules and 1% of patients on placebo. The majority of elevations occurred within 6 to 9 months. In clinical trials, fingolimod capsules were discontinued if the elevation exceeded 5 times the ULN. Serum transaminase levels returned to normal within approximately 2 months after discontinuation of fingolimod capsules. Recurrence of liver transaminase elevations occurred with rechallenge in some patients.

Prior to starting treatment with TASCENSO ODT (within 6 months), obtain serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and total bilirubin levels. Obtain transaminase levels and total bilirubin levels periodically until two months after TASCENSO ODT discontinuation.

Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of any hepatic injury. Measure liver transaminase and bilirubin levels promptly in patients who report symptoms that may indicate liver injury, including new or worsening fatigue, anorexia, right upper abdominal discomfort, dark urine, or jaundice. In this clinical context, if the patient is found to have an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) greater than three times the reference range with serum total bilirubin greater than two times the reference range, treatment with TASCENSO ODT treatment should be interrupted. Treatment should not be resumed if a plausible alternative etiology for the signs and symptoms cannot be established, because these patients are at risk for severe drug-induced liver injury.

Because fingolimod exposure is doubled in patients with severe hepatic impairment, these patients should be closely monitored during treatment with TASCENSO ODT, as the risk of adverse reactions is greater [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.6 Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

There have been rare cases of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) reported in adult patients receiving fingolimod. Symptoms reported included sudden onset of severe headache, altered mental status, visual disturbances, and seizure. Symptoms of PRES are usually reversible but may evolve into ischemic stroke or cerebral hemorrhage. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to permanent neurological sequelae. If PRES is suspected, TASCENSO ODT should be discontinued.

5.7 Respiratory Effects

Dose-dependent reductions in forced expiratory volume over 1 second (FEV1) and diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) were observed in patients treated with fingolimod, the active moiety in TASCENSO ODT, as early as 1 month after treatment initiation. In 2-year placebo-controlled trials in adult patients, the reduction from baseline in the percent of predicted values for FEV1 at the time of last assessment on drug was 2.8% for fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules and 1.0% for placebo. For DLCO, the reduction from baseline in percent of predicted values at the time of last assessment on drug was 3.3% for fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules and 0.5% for placebo. The changes in FEV1 appear to be reversible after treatment discontinuation. There is insufficient information to determine the reversibility of the decrease of DLCO after drug discontinuation. In MS placebo-controlled trials in adult patients, dyspnea was reported in 9% of patients receiving fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules and 7% of patients receiving placebo. Several patients discontinued fingolimod capsules because of unexplained dyspnea during the extension (uncontrolled) studies. Fingolimod, the active moiety in TASCENSO ODT, has not been tested in MS patients with compromised respiratory function.

Spirometric evaluation of respiratory function and evaluation of DLCO should be performed during therapy with TASCENSO ODT if clinically indicated.

5.8 Fetal Risk

Based on findings from animal studies, TASCENSO ODT may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. In animal reproduction studies conducted in rats and rabbits, developmental toxicity was observed with administration of fingolimod at doses less than the recommended human dose. Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Because it takes approximately 2 months to eliminate fingolimod from the body, advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy during and for 2 months after stopping TASCENSO ODT treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

5.9 Severe Increase in Disability After Stopping TASCENSO ODT

Severe increase in disability accompanied by multiple new lesions on MRI has been reported after discontinuation of fingolimod in the postmarketing setting. Patients in most of these reported cases did not return to the functional status they had before stopping fingolimod. The increase in disability generally occurred within 12 weeks after stopping fingolimod but was reported up to 24 weeks after fingolimod discontinuation.

Monitor patients for development of severe increase in disability following discontinuation of TASCENSO ODT and begin appropriate treatment as needed.

After stopping TASCENSO ODT in the setting of PML, monitor for development of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (PML-IRIS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

5.10 Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis

MS relapses with tumefactive demyelinating lesions on imaging have been observed during fingolimod therapy and after fingolimod discontinuation in the postmarketing setting. Most reported cases of tumefactive MS in patients receiving fingolimod have occurred within the first 9 months after fingolimod initiation, but tumefactive MS may occur at any point during treatment. Cases of tumefactive MS have also been reported within the first 4 months after fingolimod discontinuation.

Tumefactive MS should be considered when a severe MS relapse occurs during TASCENSO ODT treatment, especially during initiation, or after discontinuation of TASCENSO ODT, prompting imaging evaluation and initiation of appropriate treatment.

5.11 Increased Blood Pressure

In adult MS controlled clinical trials, patients treated with fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules had an average increase over placebo of approximately 3 mmHg in systolic pressure, and approximately 2 mmHg in diastolic pressure, first detected after approximately 1 month of fingolimod treatment initiation and persisting with continued treatment. Hypertension was reported as an adverse reaction in 8% of patients on fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules and in 4% of patients on placebo. Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment with TASCENSO ODT.

5.12 Malignancies

5.13 Immune System Effects Following TASCENSO ODT Discontinuation

Fingolimod remains in the blood and has pharmacodynamic effects, including decreased lymphocyte counts, for up to 2 months following the last dose of TASCENSO ODT. Lymphocyte counts generally return to the normal range within 1 to 2 months of stopping therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Because of the continuing pharmacodynamic effects of fingolimod, initiating other drugs during this period warrants the same considerations needed for concomitant administration (e.g., risk of additive immunosuppressant effects) [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].

5.14 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, urticaria, and angioedema have been reported with fingolimod in the postmarketing setting. TASCENSO ODT is contraindicated in patients with history of hypersensitivity to fingolimod or any of its excipients [see Contraindications (4)].

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.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

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

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia

Hepatobiliary Disorders: Liver injury [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]

Infections: Infections including cryptococcal infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)], human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, including papilloma, dysplasia, warts and HPV-related cancer [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)], progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Arthralgia, myalgia

Nervous System Disorders: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)], seizures, including status epilepticus [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]

Neoplasms, Benign, Malignant, and Unspecified (including cysts and polyps): melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, cutaneous T- cell lymphoma (including mycosis fungoides), Kaposi’s sarcoma and, squamous cell carcinoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)]

7.1 QT Prolonging Drugs

TASCENSO ODT has not been studied in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Drugs that prolong the QT interval have been associated with cases of torsades de pointes in patients with bradycardia. Since initiation of TASCENSO ODT treatment results in decreased heart rate and may prolong the QT interval, patients on QT prolonging drugs with a known risk of torsades de pointes (e.g., citalopram, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, methadone, erythromycin) should be monitored overnight with continuous ECG in a medical facility [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

7.2 Ketoconazole

The blood levels of fingolimod and fingolimod-phosphate are increased by 1.7-fold when used concomitantly with ketoconazole. Patients who use TASCENSO ODT and systemic ketoconazole concomitantly should be closely monitored, as the risk of adverse reactions is greater.

7.3 Vaccines

TASCENSO ODT reduces the immune response to vaccination. Vaccination may be less effective during and for up to 2 months after discontinuation of treatment with TASCENSO ODT [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Avoid the use of live attenuated vaccines during and for 2 months after treatment with TASCENSO ODT because of the risk of infection.

It is recommended that pediatric patients, if possible, be brought up to date with all immunizations in agreement with current immunization guidelines prior to initiating TASCENSO ODT therapy.

7.4 Antineoplastic, Immunosuppressive, or Immune-Modulating Therapies

Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies, (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with TASCENSO ODT. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating TASCENSO ODT [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

7.5 Drugs That Slow Heart Rate or Atrioventricular Conduction (e.g., beta blockers or diltiazem)

Experience with fingolimod in patients receiving concurrent therapy with drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction (e.g., beta blockers, digoxin, or heart rate-slowing calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem or verapamil) is limited. Because initiation of TASCENSO ODT treatment may result in an additional decrease in heart rate, concomitant use of these drugs during TASCENSO ODT initiation may be associated with severe bradycardia or heart block. Seek advice from the physician prescribing these drugs regarding the possibility to switch to drugs that do not slow the heart rate or atrioventricular conduction before initiating TASCENSO ODT. Patients who cannot switch should have overnight continuous ECG monitoring after the first dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

7.6 Laboratory Test Interaction

Because fingolimod reduces blood lymphocyte counts via redistribution in secondary lymphoid organs, peripheral blood lymphocyte counts cannot be utilized to evaluate the lymphocyte subset status of a patient treated with fingolimod. A recent CBC should be available before initiating treatment with TASCENSO ODT.

8.1 Pregnancy

8.2 Lactation

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of fingolimod for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis in pediatric patients 10 to less than 18 years of age were established in one randomized, double-blind clinical study in 215 patients (fingolimod n = 107; intramuscular interferon (IFN) beta-1a n = 108) [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

In the controlled pediatric study, the safety profile in pediatric patients (10 to less than 18 years of age) receiving fingolimod 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg capsules daily was similar to that seen in adult patients. In the pediatric study, cases of seizures were reported in 5.6% of fingolimod-treated patients and 0.9% of interferon beta-1a-treated patients.

It is recommended that pediatric patients, if possible, complete all immunizations in accordance with current immunization guidelines prior to initiating TASCENSO ODT therapy.

Safety and effectiveness of TASCENSO ODT in pediatric patients below the age of 10 years have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical MS studies of fingolimod capsules did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients. TASCENSO ODT should be used with caution in patients aged 65 years and over, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, or renal, function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

Because fingolimod, but not fingolimod-phosphate, exposure is doubled in patients with severe hepatic impairment, patients with severe hepatic impairment should be closely monitored, as the risk of adverse reactions may be greater [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

No dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.

8.7 Renal Impairment

The blood level of some fingolimod metabolites is increased (up to 13-fold) in patients with severe renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The toxicity of these metabolites has not been fully explored. The blood level of these metabolites has not been assessed in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Fingolimod is metabolized by sphingosine kinase to the active metabolite, fingolimod-phosphate. Fingolimod phosphate is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator and binds with high affinity to sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors 1, 3, 4, and 5. Fingolimod-phosphate blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which fingolimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Oral carcinogenicity studies of fingolimod were conducted in mice and rats. In mice, fingolimod was administered at oral doses of 0, 0.025, 0.25, and 2.5 mg/kg/day for up to 2 years. The incidence of malignant lymphoma was increased in males and females at the mid and high dose. The lowest dose tested (0.025 mg/kg/day) is less than the RHD of 0.5 mg/day on a body surface area (mg/m2) basis. In rats, fingolimod was administered at oral doses of 0, 0.05, 0.15, 0.5, and 2.5 mg/kg/day. No increase in tumors was observed. The highest dose tested (2.5 mg/kg/day) is approximately 50 times the RHD on a mg/m2 basis.

Fingolimod was negative in a battery of in vitro (Ames, mouse lymphoma thymidine kinase, chromosomal aberration in mammalian cells) and in vivo (micronucleus in mouse and rat) assays.

When fingolimod was administered orally (0, 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg/day) to male and female rats prior to and during mating, and continuing to Day 7 of gestation in females, no effect on fertility was observed up to the highest dose tested (10 mg/kg), which is approximately 200 times the RHD on a mg/m2 basis.

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Lung toxicity was observed in 2 different strains of rats and in dogs and monkeys. The primary findings included increase in lung weight, associated with smooth muscle hypertrophy, hyperdistention of the alveoli, and/or increased collagen. Insufficient or lack of pulmonary collapse at necropsy, generally correlated with microscopic changes, was observed in all species. In rats and monkeys, lung toxicity was observed at all oral doses tested in chronic studies. The lowest doses tested in rats (0.05 mg/kg/day in the 2-year carcinogenicity study) and monkeys (0.5 mg/kg/day in the 39-week toxicity study) are similar to and approximately 20 times the RHD on a mg/m2 basis, respectively.

In the 52-week oral study in monkeys, respiratory distress associated with ketamine administration was observed at doses of 3 and 10 mg/kg/day; the most affected animal became hypoxic and required oxygenation. As ketamine is not generally associated with respiratory depression, this effect was attributed to fingolimod. In a subsequent study in rats, ketamine was shown to potentiate the bronchoconstrictive effects of fingolimod. The relevance of these findings to humans is unknown.

14.1 Adults

The efficacy of fingolimod was demonstrated in 2 studies that evaluated once-daily doses of fingolimod capsules 0.5 mg and 1.25 mg in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Both studies included patients who had experienced at least 2 clinical relapses during the 2 years prior to randomization or at least 1 clinical relapse during the 1 year prior to randomization and had an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score from 0 to 5.5. Study 1 was a 2-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in patients with RRMS who had not received any interferon-beta or glatiramer acetate for at least the previous 3 months and had not received any natalizumab for at least the previous 6 months. Neurological evaluations were performed at screening, every 3 months and at time of suspected relapse. MRI evaluations were performed at screening, Month 6, Month 12, and Month 24. The primary endpoint was the annualized relapse rate.

Median age was 37 years, median disease duration was 6.7 years and median EDSS score at baseline was 2.0. Patients were randomized to receive fingolimod 0.5 mg (N = 425), 1.25 mg (N = 429), or placebo (N = 418) for up to 24 months. Median time on study drug was 717 days on 0.5 mg, 715 days on 1.25 mg, and 719 days on placebo.

The annualized relapse rate was significantly lower in patients treated with fingolimod than in patients who received placebo. The secondary endpoint was the time to 3-month confirmed disability progression as measured by at least a 1-point increase from baseline in EDSS (0.5-point increase for patients with baseline EDSS of 5.5) sustained for 3 months. Time to onset of 3-month confirmed disability progression was significantly delayed with fingolimod treatment compared to placebo. The 1.25 mg dose resulted in no additional benefit over the fingolimod 0.5 mg dose. The results for this study are shown in Table 2 and Figure 1.

Abbreviation: CI, confidence interval.

All analyses of clinical endpoints were intent-to-treat. MRI analysis used evaluable dataset.
§Hazard ratio is an estimate of the relative risk of having the event of disability progression on fingolimod as compared to placebo.

Figure 1: Time to 3-Month Confirmed Disability Progression - Study 1 (ITT population)

Study 2 was a 1-year randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled study in patients with RRMS who had not received any natalizumab in the previous 6 months. Prior therapy with interferon-beta or glatiramer acetate up to the time of randomization was permitted.

Neurological evaluations were performed at screening, every 3 months, and at the time of suspected relapses. MRI evaluations were performed at screening and at Month 12. The primary endpoint was the annualized relapse rate.

Median age was 36 years, median disease duration was 5.9 years, and median EDSS score at baseline was 2.0. Patients were randomized to receive fingolimod capsules 0.5 mg (N = 431), 1.25 mg (N = 426), or interferon beta-1a, 30 mcg via the intramuscular route (IM) once-weekly (N = 435) for up to 12 months. Median time on study drug was 365 days on fingolimod 0.5 mg, 354 days on 1.25 mg, and 361 days on interferon beta-1a IM.

The annualized relapse rate was significantly lower in patients treated with fingolimod 0.5 mg than in patients who received interferon beta-1a IM. The key secondary endpoints were number of new and newly enlarging T2 lesions and time to onset of 3-month confirmed disability progression as measured by at least a 1-point increase from baseline in EDSS (0.5-point increase for those with baseline EDSS of 5.5) sustained for 3 months. The number of new and newly enlarging T2 lesions was significantly lower in patients treated with fingolimod than in patients who received interferon beta-1a IM. There was no significant difference in the time to 3-month confirmed disability progression between fingolimod and interferon beta-1a-treated patients at 1 year. The 1.25 mg dose resulted in no additional benefit over the fingolimod 0.5 mg dose. The results for this study are shown in Table 3.

Abbreviation: CI, confidence interval.

All analyses of clinical endpoints were intent-to-treat. MRI analysis used evaluable dataset.

§Hazard ratio is an estimate of the relative risk of having the event of disability progression on fingolimod as compared to control.

Pooled results of Study 1 and Study 2 showed a consistent and statistically significant reduction of annualized relapse rate compared to comparator in subgroups defined by gender, age, prior MS therapy, and disease activity.

14.2 Pediatric Patients (10 to less than 18 Years of Age)

Study 4 (NCT01892722) evaluated the efficacy of once-daily oral doses of fingolimod capsules 0.25 mg or fingolimod capsules 0.5 mg in pediatric patients 10 to less than 18 years of age with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Study 4 was a 215 patient, double-blind, randomized, clinical trial that compared fingolimod to intramuscular interferon beta-1a. Prior therapy with interferon-beta, dimethyl fumarate, or glatiramer acetate up to the time of randomization was permitted. The study included patients who had experienced at least 1 clinical relapse during the year prior or 2 relapses during the 2 years prior to screening, or evidence of 1 or more Gd-enhancing lesions on MRI within 6 months prior to randomization and had an EDSS score from 0 to 5.5. Neurological evaluations were scheduled at screening, every 3 months, and at the time of suspected relapses. MRI evaluations were performed at screening and every 6 months throughout the study. The primary endpoint was the annualized relapse rate.

At baseline, the median age was 16 years, median disease duration since first symptom was 1.5 years, and median EDSS score was 1.5. One patient received no study drug and is excluded from the analysis of efficacy. Median duration of exposure to study drug was 634 days in the fingolimod group (n = 107) and 547 days in the interferon beta-1a group (n = 107). In the fingolimod group, 6.5% of patients did not complete the study, compared to 18.5% in the interferon beta-1a group.

The primary endpoint, the annualized relapse rate (ARR), was significantly lower in patients treated with fingolimod (0.122) than in patients who received interferon beta-1a (0.675). Relative reduction in ARR was 81.9%. The annualized rate of the number of new or newly enlarged T2 lesions up to month 24 (key secondary endpoint) was significantly lower in patients treated with fingolimod, as was the number of Gd-enhancing T1 lesions per scan up to month 24.

Table 4 summarizes the results of Study 4.

Abbreviations: IM, intramuscular; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; PO, by mouth.

All analyses of clinical endpoints were on full analysis set. MRI analyses used the evaluable dataset.

§Indicates statistical significance vs. Interferon beta-1a IM at two-sided 0.05 level.

16.1 How Supplied

0.25 mg TASCENSO ODT orally disintegrating tablets are supplied as follows:

White to off-white, round, orally disintegrating tablet debossed with .

Carton of 30 orally disintegrating tablets containing 3 blister cards of 10 orally disintegrating tablets per blister card

NDC 70709-062-30 

0.5 mg TASCENSO ODT orally disintegrating tablets are supplied as follows:

White to off-white, round, orally disintegrating tablet debossed with .

Carton of 30 orally disintegrating tablets containing 3 blister cards of 10 orally disintegrating tablets per blister card

NDC 70709-065-30

16.2 Storage and Handling

TASCENSO ODT should be stored at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from moisture. Store in sealed blister pack. Do not open blister until ready to administer.

Cardiac Effects

Advise patients that initiation of TASCENSO ODT treatment results in a transient decrease in heart rate. Inform patients that they will need to be observed in the healthcare professional's office or other facility for at least 6 hours after the first dose, after reinitiation if treatment is interrupted or discontinued for certain periods, and after the dosage is increased [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Risk of Infections

Inform patients that they may have an increased risk of infections, some of which could be life-threatening, when taking TASCENSO ODT, and that they should contact their healthcare provider if they develop symptoms of infection. Advise patients that the use of some vaccines should be avoided during treatment with TASCENSO ODT and for 2 months after discontinuation. Recommend to patients that they delay treatment with TASCENSO ODT until after VZV vaccination if they have not had chickenpox or a previous VZV vaccination. Inform patients that prior or concomitant use of drugs that suppress the immune system may increase the risk of infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Inform patients that cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have occurred in patients who received fingolimod, the active moiety in TASCENSO ODT. Inform the patient that PML is characterized by a progression of deficits and usually leads to death or severe disability over weeks or months. Instruct the patient of the importance of contacting their healthcare provider if they develop any symptoms suggestive of PML. Inform the patient that typical symptoms associated with PML are diverse, progress over days to weeks, and include progressive weakness on one side of the body or clumsiness of limbs, disturbance of vision, and changes in thinking, memory, and orientation leading to confusion and personality changes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Macular Edema

Advise patients that TASCENSO ODT may cause macular edema, and that they should obtain an eye exam near the start of treatment with TASCENSO ODT, have their eyes monitored periodically by an eye care professional while receiving therapy, and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any changes in their vision while taking TASCENSO ODT. Inform patients with diabetes mellitus or a history of uveitis that their risk of macular edema is increased [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Hepatic Effects

Inform patients that TASCENSO ODT may cause liver injury. Advise patients that they should contact their healthcare provider if they have any unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, or jaundice and/or dark urine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

Advise patients to immediately report to their healthcare provider any symptoms involving sudden onset of severe headache, altered mental status, visual disturbances, or seizure. Inform patients that delayed treatment could lead to permanent neurological sequelae [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

Respiratory Effects

Advise patients that they should contact their healthcare provider if they experience new onset or worsening of dyspnea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Fetal Risk

• Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].
• Advise female patients of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with TASCENSO ODT and for two months after the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Severe Increase in Disability After Stopping TASCENSO ODT

Inform patients that severe increase in disability has been reported after discontinuation of fingolimod. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they develop worsening symptoms of MS following discontinuation of TASCENSO ODT [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Malignancies

Advise patients that the risk of basal cell carcinoma and melanoma is increased with use of fingolimod, the active moiety in TASCENSO ODT, and that cases of squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and Kaposi’s sarcoma have been reported. Advise patients that any suspicious skin lesions should be promptly evaluated. Advise patients to limit exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet light by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen with a high protection factor. Inform patients that lymphoma has also occurred in patients receiving fingolimod [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].

Persistence of TASCENSO ODT Effects After Drug Discontinuation

Advise patients that TASCENSO ODT remains in the blood and continues to have effects, including decreased blood lymphocyte counts, for up to 2 months following the last dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)].

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Advise patients that TASCENSO ODT may cause hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, and angioedema. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they have any symptoms associated with hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

Pregnancy

Instruct patients that if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking TASCENSO ODT they should inform their physician [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

For full prescribing information, please visit www.tascenso.com.