Afinitor Disperz

Name: Afinitor Disperz

Afinitor Disperz Drug Class

Afinitor Disperz is part of the drug class:

  • Protein kinase inhibitors

Afinitor Disperz Overdose

If you take too much Afinitor Disperz, call your local Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical attention right away. Take Afinitor Disperz with you. 

Afinitor Disperz FDA Warning

WARNING: MALIGNANCIES AND SERIOUS INFECTIONS, KIDNEY GRAFT THROMBOSIS; NEPHROTOXICITY; AND MORTALITY IN HEART TRANSPLANTATION

Malignancies and Serious Infections

  • Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of transplant patients should prescribe everolimus. Patients receiving the drug should be managed in facilities equipped and staffed with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources. The physician responsible for maintenance therapy should have complete information requisite for the follow-up of the patient. 
  • Increased susceptibility to infection and the possible development of malignancies such as lymphoma and skin cancer may result from immunosuppression. 

Kidney Graft Thrombosis

  • An increased risk of kidney arterial and venous thrombosis, resulting in graft loss, was reported, mostly within the first 30 days post-transplantation. 

Nephrotoxicity

  • Increased nephrotoxicity can occur with use of standard doses of cyclosporine in combination with everolimus. Therefore reduced doses of cyclosporine should be used in combination with everolimus in order to reduce renal dysfunction. It is important to monitor the cyclosporine and everolimus whole blood trough concentrations.

Mortality in Heart Transplantation

  • Increased mortality, often associated with serious infections, within the first three months post-transplantation was observed in a clinical trial of de novoheart transplant patients receiving immunosuppressive regimens with or without induction therapy. Use in heart transplantation is not recommended.

How should I take Afinitor?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Everolimus should be taken at the same time each day. You may take everolimus with or without food, but take it the same way each time.

Do not take an Afinitor regular tablet together with an Afinitor dispersible tablet. Use only one form of this medicine.

Take the Afinitor regular tablet with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

Do not swallow the dispersible tablet (Afinitor Disperz) whole. Place it into about 2 tablespoons of water and allow the tablet to disperse in the liquid for at least 3 minutes. Stir gently and drink this mixture right away. The dispersed tablet may also be taken with an oral syringe. Wear latex gloves while handling the Afinitor Disperz tablet.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Afinitor can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. Your blood may need to be tested often.

If you have ever had hepatitis B, Afinitor can cause this condition to come back or get worse. You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function during treatment and for several months after you stop using this medicine.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Afinitor. Your surgical incisions or other wounds may take longer to heal while you are taking this medicine.

Store at room temperature in the original container, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep each tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take it.

Afinitor side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; chest pain, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. You may be more likely to have some of these symptoms if you also take an "ACE inhibitor" heart or blood pressure medication.

Stop using Afinitor and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • new or worsening cough, chest pain, wheezing, feeling short of breath;

  • signs of infection--fever, chills, joint pain, red or swollen gums, painful mouth sores, skin sores, rapid heart rate, pale skin, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, feeling light-headed;

  • kidney problems--little or no urination; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath;

  • liver problems--nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

  • any wound that will not heal; or

  • a surgical incision that is red, warm, swollen, painful, bleeding, or oozing pus.

Common side effects may include:

  • infections, cough, nosebleeds;

  • mouth sores, taste problems, dry mouth;

  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation;

  • weight loss, feeling weak or tired;

  • pain or swelling anywhere in your body;

  • dry skin, rash, acne;

  • missed menstrual periods;

  • unusual changes in mood or behavior;

  • sleep problems (insomnia);

  • dizziness, headache; or

  • high blood sugar--increased thirst or urination, hunger, fruity breath odor, blurred vision.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Afinitor?

Many drugs can interact with Afinitor. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

  • an antibiotic;

  • antifungal medicine;

  • heart or blood pressure medication;

  • medicine to treat hepatitis C, or HIV/AIDS;

  • seizure medicine;

  • St. John's wort;

  • tuberculosis medication; or

  • drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cancer medicine, steroids, and medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection.

This list is not complete and many other drugs can interact with Afinitor. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Give a list of all your medicines to any healthcare provider who treats you.

Precautions While Using Afinitor Disperz

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medicine and for at least 8 weeks after stopping treatment. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.

If you are planning to have children, talk with your doctor before using this medicine. This medicine may decrease fertility in men and women.

This medicine may cause a serious lung problem called noninfectious pneumonitis. Check with your doctor right away if you have chest pain, chills, a cough, a fever, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing.

Check with your doctor right away if you have agitation, confusion, decreased urine amount, dizziness, headache, irritability, muscle twitching, nausea, rapid weight gain, swelling of the face, ankles, or hands, or unusual tiredness or weakness. These may be symptoms of a serious kidney problem.

While you are being treated with everolimus, and after you stop treatment with it, do not have any immunizations (vaccines) without your doctor's approval. Everolimus may lower your body's resistance and the vaccine may not work as well or you might get the infection the vaccine is meant to prevent. In addition, you should not be around other persons living in your household who receive live virus vaccines because there is a chance they could pass the virus on to you. Some examples of live virus vaccines include measles, mumps, influenza (nasal flu vaccine), poliovirus (oral form), rotavirus, and rubella. Do not get close to them and do not stay in the same room with them for very long. If you have questions about this, talk to your doctor.

Everolimus can temporarily lower the number of white blood cells in your blood, which increases the chance of getting an infection. It can also lower the number of platelets, which are necessary for proper blood clotting. If this occurs, there are certain precautions you can take, especially when your blood count is low, to reduce the risk of infection or bleeding:

  • If you can, avoid people with infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you are getting an infection or if you get a fever or chills, cough or hoarseness, lower back or side pain, or painful or difficult urination.
  • Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising, black, tarry stools, blood in the urine or stools, or pinpoint red spots on your skin.
  • Be careful when using a regular toothbrush, dental floss, or toothpick. Your medical doctor, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Check with your medical doctor before having any dental work done.
  • Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have just washed your hands and have not touched anything else in the meantime.
  • Be careful not to cut yourself when you are using sharp objects such as a safety razor or fingernail or toenail cutters.
  • Avoid contact sports or other situations where bruising or injury could occur.

This medicine may increase your risk for getting skin cancer. When you begin taking this medicine:

  • Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, if possible.
  • Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
  • Apply a sunblock product that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, or higher if you have a fair complexion.
  • Apply a sunblock lipstick that has an SPF of at least 15 to protect your lips.
  • Do not use sunlamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
  • If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Everolimus may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called angioedema. This may occur more often when it is used with certain heart and blood pressure medicines called ACE inhibitors (eg, captopril [Capoten®], enalapril [Vasotec®], fosinopril [Monopril®], quinapril [Accupril®], ramipril [Altace®]). Check with your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, a large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs, trouble breathing, or chest tightness while you are using this medicine.

If you have a kidney transplant, this medicine may increase your risk for having a blood clot in the new kidney. This usually occurs within the first 30 days after the kidney transplant. Check with your doctor right away if you are making less urine, or if you have pain in your groin, lower back, side, or stomach, dark-colored urine, a fever, or nausea or vomiting.

This medicine may also prevent you from healing correctly after an injury. Call your doctor right away if you have blood, fluid, or pus in your incision, your incision opens up, or it is red, warm, painful, or swollen.

If you are taking this medicine after a kidney transplant, it may increase your risk for developing rare and serious virus infections, such as polyoma virus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), progressive multiple leukoencephalopathy (PML), and BK virus-associated nephropathy (BKVAN). The BK virus may affect how your kidneys work and cause a transplanted kidney to fail. Check with your doctor right away if you have bloody urine, a decreased frequency or amount of urine, increased thirst, loss of appetite, lower back or side pain, nausea, swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs, trouble breathing, unusual tiredness or weakness, vomiting, or weight gain.

Everolimus may cause mouth ulcers and sores in some patients. Tell your doctor right away if you have pain, discomfort, or open sores in your mouth while you are using this medicine. You may use a special mouthwash or mouth gel to treat these ulcers. Ask your doctor what type of products to use.

This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor if you notice a change in your blood or urine sugar tests.

Tell your doctor if you are taking a corticosteroid or another medicine that may weaken your immune system. This may increase your risk for developing a serious infection.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal (eg, St. John's Wort) or vitamin supplements.

How do I store and/or throw out Afinitor Disperz?

  • Store in the original container at room temperature.
  • Protect from light.
  • Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
  • Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Check with your pharmacist about how to throw out unused drugs.

Liver Dose Adjustments

AFINITOR(R):
Breast Cancer, Renal Cell Carcinoma, Renal Angiomyolipoma, Pancreatic Cancer:
-Mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A): The recommended dose is 7.5 mg a day. The dose may be reduced to 5 mg a day if not well tolerated.
-Moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B): The recommended dose is 5 mg a day. The dose may be decreased to 2.5 mg a day if not well tolerated.
-Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C): If the desired benefit outweighs the risk, a dose of 2.5 mg a day may be used but must not be exceeded.

-Dose adjustments should occur if a patient's hepatic status changes during treatment.

Brain/Intracranial Tumors:
-Mild and moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A and B): Dose adjustment may not be necessary.

-Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C): 2.5 mg/m2 orally once a day; subsequent dosing should be based on therapeutic drug monitoring.
-Assess trough concentrations approximately 2 weeks after commencing treatment, a change in dose, or any change in hepatic function.

ZORTRESS(R):
Mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A): The initial daily dose should be reduced by one-third of the normally recommended initial dose.

Moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B) or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C): Initial daily dose should be reduced to one-half of the normally recommended initial dose.

Other Comments

Administration advice:
-Take consistently with or without food.
-Maintain consistency in time of administration.
-Afinitor(R) tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.
-Afinitor(R) tablets should not be broken or crushed.
-Do not combine the two dosage forms (Afinitor(R) tablets and Afinitor Disperz(R)) to achieve the desired total dose for patients with SEGA with TSC.
-If a dose is missed, continue normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for missed dose.
-Zortress(R) should be taken 12 hours apart with or without food and at the same time as cyclosporine or tacrolimus.

Storage requirements:
-Store in original container away from light and moisture.

Reconstitution/preparation techniques:
Afinitor Disperz(R):
-Wear gloves to avoid possible contact with the drug when preparing suspensions for another person.
-Administer as a suspension only within 60 minutes of preparation. If not used within 60 minutes, discard suspension.
-Prepare suspension in water only.

For additional information, refer to manufacturer product information.

Clinical pharmacology

Mechanism Of Action

Everolimus is an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine-threonine kinase, downstream of the PI3K/AKT pathway. The mTOR pathway is dysregulated in several human cancers and in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Everolimus binds to an intracellular protein, FKBP-12, resulting in an inhibitory complex formation with mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and thus inhibition of mTOR kinase activity. Everolimus reduced the activity of S6 ribosomal protein kinase (S6K1) and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein (4E-BP1), downstream effectors of mTOR, involved in protein synthesis. S6K1 is a substrate of mTORC1 and phosphorylates the activation domain 1 of the estrogen receptor which results in ligand-independent activation of the receptor. In addition, everolimus inhibited the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (e.g., HIF-1) and reduced the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Inhibition of mTOR by everolimus has been shown to reduce cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and glucose uptake in in vitro and/or in vivo studies.

Constitutive activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway can contribute to endocrine resistance in breast cancer. In vitro studies show that estrogen-dependent and HER2+ breast cancer cells are sensitive to the inhibitory effects of everolimus, and that combination treatment with everolimus and Akt, HER2, or aromatase inhibitors enhances the anti-tumor activity of everolimus in a synergistic manner.

Two regulators of mTORC1 signaling are the oncogene suppressors tuberin-sclerosis complexes 1 and 2 (TSC1, TSC2). Loss or inactivation of either TSC1 or TSC2 leads to activation of downstream signaling. In TSC, a genetic disorder, inactivating mutations in either the TSC1 or the TSC2 gene lead to hamartoma formation throughout the body as well as seizures and epileptogenesis. Overactivation of mTOR results in neuronal dysplasia, aberrant axonogenesis and dendrite formation, increased excitatory synaptic currents, reduced myelination, and disruption of the cortical laminar structure causing abnormalities in neuronal development and function. Treatment with an mTOR inhibitor in animal models of mTOR dysregulation in the brain resulted in seizure suppression, prevention of the development of new-onset seizures, and prevention of premature death.

Pharmacodynamics

Exposure-Response Relationship

In patients with TSC-associated subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), the magnitude of the reduction in SEGA volume was correlated with the everolimus trough concentration.

In patients with TSC-associated partial-onset seizures, the magnitude of the reduction in absolute seizure frequency was correlated with the everolimus trough concentration.

Cardiac Electrophysiology

In a randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study, 59 healthy subjects were administered a single oral dose of AFINITOR (20 mg and 50 mg) and placebo. AFINITOR at single doses up to 50 mg did not prolong the QT/QTc interval.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

After administration of AFINITOR in patients with advanced solid tumors, peak everolimus concentrations are reached 1 to 2 hours after administration of oral doses ranging from 5 mg to 70 mg. Following single doses, Cmax is dose-proportional with daily dosing between 5 mg and 10 mg. With single doses of 20 mg and higher, the increase in Cmax is less than dose-proportional; however, AUC shows dose-proportionality over the 5 mg to 70 mg dose range. Steady-state was achieved within 2 weeks following once-daily dosing.

In patients with TSC-associated SEGA, everolimus Cmin was approximately dose-proportional within the dose range from 1.35 mg/m² to 14.4 mg/m².

Effect Of Food

In healthy subjects, a high-fat meal (containing approximately 1000 calories and 55 grams of fat) reduced systemic exposure to AFINITOR 10 mg (as measured by AUC) by 22% and the peak blood concentration Cmax by 54%. Light-fat meals (containing approximately 500 calories and 20 grams of fat) reduced AUC by 32% and Cmax by 42%.

In healthy subjects who received 9 mg of AFINITOR DISPERZ, high-fat meals (containing approximately 1000 calories and 55 grams of fat) reduced everolimus AUC by 12% and Cmax by 60% and low-fat meals (containing approximately 500 calories and 20 grams of fat) reduced everolimus AUC by 30% and Cmax by 50%.

Relative Bioavailability

The AUCinf of everolimus was equivalent between AFINITOR DISPERZ and AFINITOR; the Cmax of everolimus in the AFINITOR DISPERZ dosage form was 20% to 36% lower than that of AFINITOR. The predicted trough concentrations at steady-state were similar after daily administration.

Distribution

The blood-to-plasma ratio of everolimus, which is concentration-dependent over the range of 5 to 5000 ng/mL, is 17% to 73%. The amount of everolimus confined to the plasma is approximately 20% at blood concentrations observed in cancer patients given AFINITOR 10 mg orally once daily. Plasma protein binding is approximately 74% both in healthy subjects and in patients with moderate hepatic impairment.

Elimination

The mean elimination half-life of everolimus is approximately 30 hours.

Metabolism

Everolimus is a substrate of CYP3A4. Following oral administration, everolimus is the main circulating component in human blood. Six main metabolites of everolimus have been detected in human blood, including three monohydroxylated metabolites, two hydrolytic ring-opened products, and a phosphatidylcholine conjugate of everolimus. These metabolites were also identified in animal species used in toxicity studies, and showed approximately 100-times less activity than everolimus itself.

Excretion

No specific elimination studies have been undertaken in cancer patients. Following the administration of a 3 mg single dose of radiolabeled everolimus in patients who were receiving cyclosporine, 80% of the radioactivity was recovered from the feces, while 5% was excreted in the urine. The parent substance was not detected in urine or feces.

Specific Populations

No relationship was apparent between oral clearance and age or sex in patients with cancer.

Patients With Renal Impairment

No significant influence of creatinine clearance (25 to 178 mL/min) was detected on oral clearance (CL/F) of everolimus.

Patients With Hepatic Impairment

Compared to normal subjects, there was a 1.8-fold, 3.2-fold, and 3.6-fold increase in AUC for subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A), moderate (Child-Pugh class B), and severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment, respectively. In another study, the average AUC of everolimus in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B) was twice that found in subjects with normal hepatic function [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Use In Specific Populations].

Pediatric Patients

In patients with TSC-associated SEGA or TSC-associated partial-onset seizures, the mean Cmin values normalized to mg/m² dose in pediatric patients (< 18 years of age) were lower than those observed in adults, suggesting that everolimus clearance adjusted to body surface area was higher in pediatric patients as compared to adults.

Race Or Ethnicity

Based on a cross-study comparison, Japanese patients had on average exposures that were higher than non-Japanese patients receiving the same dose. Oral clearance (CL/F) is on average 20% higher in Black patients than in White patients.

Drug Interaction Studies

Effect Of CYP3A4 And P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors On Everolimus

Everolimus exposure increased when AFINITOR was coadministered with:

  • ketoconazole (a P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) - Cmax and AUC increased by 3.9- and 15-fold, respectively.
  • erythromycin (a P-gp and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) - Cmax and AUC increased by 2- and 4.4-fold, respectively.
  • verapamil (a P-gp and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) - Cmax and AUC increased by 2.3- and 3.5-fold, respectively.
Effect Of CYP3A4 And P-gp Inducers On Everolimus

The coadministration of AFINITOR with rifampin, a P-gp and strong inducer of CYP3A4, decreased everolimus AUC by 63% and Cmax by 58% compared to AFINITOR alone [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Effect Of Everolimus On CYP3A4 Substrates

No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions were observed between AFINITOR and the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors atorvastatin (a CYP3A4 substrate), pravastatin (a nonCYP3A4 substrate), and simvastatin (a CYP3A4 substrate).

The coadministration of an oral dose of midazolam (sensitive CYP3A4 substrate) with AFINITOR resulted in a 25% increase in midazolam Cmax and a 30% increase in midazolam AUC0-inf.

The coadministration of AFINITOR with exemestane increased exemestane Cmin by 45% and C2h by 64%; however, the corresponding estradiol levels at steady state (4 weeks) were not different between the 2 treatment arms. No increase in adverse reactions related to exemestane was observed in patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer receiving the combination.

The coadministration of AFINITOR with long acting octreotide increased octreotide Cmin by approximately 50%.

Effect Of Everolimus On Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Everolimus increased pre-dose concentrations of the carbamazepine, clobazam, oxcarbazepine, and clobazam’s metabolite N-desmethylclobazam by about 10%. Everolimus had no impact on pre-dose concentrations of AEDs that are substrates of CYP3A4 (e.g., clonazepam and zonisamide) or other AEDs, including valproic acid, topiramate, phenobarbital, and phenytoin.

Animal Toxicology And/Or Pharmacology

In juvenile rat toxicity studies, dose-related delayed attainment of developmental landmarks including delayed eyeopening, delayed reproductive development in males and females and increased latency time during the learning and memory phases were observed at doses as low as 0.15 mg/kg/day.

Clinical Studies

Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer

A randomized, double-blind, multicenter study (BOLERO-2, NCT00863655) of AFINITOR in combination with exemestane vs. placebo in combination with exemestane was conducted in 724 postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer with recurrence or progression following prior therapy with letrozole or anastrozole. Randomization was stratified by documented sensitivity to prior hormonal therapy (yes vs. no) and by the presence of visceral metastasis (yes vs. no). Sensitivity to prior hormonal therapy was defined as either (1) documented clinical benefit (complete response [CR], partial response [PR], stable disease ≥ 24 weeks) to at least one prior hormonal therapy in the advanced setting or (2) at least 24 months of adjuvant hormonal therapy prior to recurrence. Patients were permitted to have received 0-1 prior lines of chemotherapy for advanced disease. The major efficacy outcome measure was progression-free survival (PFS) evaluated by RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors), based on investigator (local radiology) assessment. Other outcome measures included overall survival (OS) and objective response rate (ORR).

Patients were randomized 2:1 to AFINITOR 10 mg orally once daily in combination with exemestane 25 mg once daily (n = 485) or to placebo in combination with exemestane 25 mg orally once daily (n = 239). The two treatment groups were generally balanced with respect to baseline demographics and disease characteristics. Patients were not permitted to cross over to AFINITOR at the time of disease progression.

The trial demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in PFS by investigator assessment (Table 20 and Figure 1). The results of the PFS analysis based on independent central radiological assessment were consistent with the investigator assessment. PFS results were also consistent across the subgroups of age, race, presence and extent of visceral metastases, and sensitivity to prior hormonal therapy.

ORR was higher in the AFINITOR in combination with exemestane arm vs. the placebo in combination with exemestane arm (Table 20). There were 3 complete responses (0.6%) and 58 partial responses (12%) in the AFINITOR arm. There were no complete responses and 4 partial responses (1.7%) in the placebo in combination with exemestane arm.

After a median follow-up of 39.3 months, there was no statistically significant difference in OS between the AFINITOR in combination with exemestane arm and the placebo in combination with exemestane arm [HR 0.89 (95% CI: 0.73, 1.10)].

Table 20: Efficacy Results in Hormone-Receptor Positive, HER-2 Negative Breast Cancer in BOLERO-2

Analysis AFINITOR with Exemestane
N = 485
Placebo with Exemestane
N = 239
Hazard ratio p-value
Median progression-free survival (months, 95% CI)
Investigator radiological review 7.8
(6.9, 8.5)
3.2
(2.8, 4.1)
0.45a (0.38, 0.54) < 0.0001b
Independent radiological review 11.0
(9.7, 15.0)
4.1
(2.9, 5.6)
0.38a (0.3, 0.5) < 0.0001b
Best overall response (%, 95% CI)
Objective response rate (ORR)c 12.6%
(9.8, 15.9)
1.7%
(0.5, 4.2)
n/ad  
aHazard ratio is obtained from the stratified Cox proportional-hazards model by sensitivity to prior hormonal therapy and presence of visceral metastasis
bp-value is obtained from the one-sided log-rank test stratified by sensitivity to prior hormonal therapy and presence of visceral metastasis
cObjective response rate = proportion of patients with CR or PR dNot applicable

Figure 1: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Progression-Free Survival by Investigator Radiological Review in Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER-2 Negative Breast Cancer in BOLERO-2

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NET)

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNET)

A randomized, double-blind, multi-center trial (RADIANT-3, NCT00510068) of AFINITOR in combination with best supportive care (BSC) compared to placebo in combination with BSC was conducted in patients with locally advanced or metastatic advanced PNET and disease progression within the prior 12 months. Patients were stratified by prior cytotoxic chemotherapy (yes vs. no) and WHO performance status (0 vs. 1 and 2). Treatment with somatostatin analogs was allowed as part of BSC. The major efficacy outcome was PFS evaluated by RECIST. After documented radiological progression, patients randomized to placebo could receive open-label AFINITOR. Other outcome measures included ORR, response duration, and OS.

Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either AFINITOR 10 mg once daily (n = 207) or placebo (n = 203). Demographics were well balanced (median age 58 years, 55% male, 79% White). Of the 203 patients randomized to BSC, 172 patients (85%) received AFINITOR following documented radiologic progression.

The trial demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in PFS (Table 21 and Figure 2). PFS improvement was observed across all patient subgroups, irrespective of prior somatostatin analog use. The PFS results by investigator radiological review, central radiological review and adjudicated radiological review are shown below in Table 21.

Table 21: Progression-Free Survival Results in PNET in RADIANT-3

Analysis AFINITOR
N = 207
Placebo
N = 203
Hazard Ratio (95% CI) p-value
N 410
Median progression-free survival (months) (95% CI)
Investigator radiological review 11.0
(8.4, 13.9)
4.6
(3.1, 5.4)
0.35
(0.27, 0.45)
< 0.001
Central radiological review 13.7
(11.2, 18.8)
5.7
(5.4, 8.3)
0.38
(0.28, 0.51)
< 0.001
Adjudicated radiological reviewa 11.4
(10.8, 14.8)
5.4
(4.3, 5.6)
0.34
(0.26, 0.44)
< 0.001
aIncludes adjudication for discrepant assessments between investigator radiological review and central radiological review

Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Progression-Free Survival by Investigator Radiological Review in PNET in RADIANT-3

Investigator-determined response rate was 4.8% in the AFINITOR arm and there were no complete responses. OS was not statistically significantly different between arms [HR = 0.94 (95% CI 0.73, 1.20); p = 0.30].

NET Of Gastrointestinal (GI) Or Lung Origin

A randomized, double-blind, multicenter study (RADIANT-4, NCT01524783) of AFINITOR in combination with BSC compared to placebo in combination with BSC was conducted in patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic, well differentiated, non-functional NET of GI (excluding pancreatic) or lung origin. The study required that patients had well-differentiated (low or intermediate grade) histology, no prior or current history of carcinoid symptoms, and evidence of disease progression within 6 months prior to randomization. Patients were randomized 2:1 to receive either AFINITOR 10 mg once daily or placebo, and stratified by prior somatostatin analog use (yes vs. no), tumor origin and WHO performance status (0 vs. 1). The major efficacy outcome measure was PFS based on independent radiological assessment evaluated by RECIST. Additional efficacy outcome measures were OS and ORR.

A total of 302 patients were randomized, 205 to the AFINITOR arm and 97 to the placebo arm. The median age was 63 years (22 to 86 years); 47% were male; 76% were White; 74% had WHO performance status of 0 and 26% had WHO performance status of 1. The most common primary sites of tumor were lung (30%), ileum (24%), and rectum (13%).

The study demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in PFS per independent radiological review (Table 22 and Figure 3). There was no statistically significant difference in OS at the planned interim analysis.

Table 22: Progression-Free Survival in NET of GI or Lung Origin in RADIANT-4

  AFINITOR
N = 205
Placebo
N = 97
Progression-Free Survival
Number of Events 113 (55%) 65 (67%)
Progressive Disease 104 (51%) 60 (62%)
Death 9 (4%) 5 (5%)
Median PFS in months (95% CI) 11.0 (9.2, 13.3) 3.9 (3.6, 7.4)
Hazard Ratio (95% CI)a 0.48 (0.35, 0.67)
p-valueb < 0.001
Overall Response Rate 2% 1%
a Hazard ratio is obtained from the stratified Cox model.
b p-value is obtained from the stratified log-rank test.

Figure 3: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Progression-Free Survival in NET of GI or Lung Origin in RADIANT-4

Lack Of Efficacy In Locally Advanced Or Metastatic Functional Carcinoid Tumors

The safety and effectiveness of AFINITOR in patients with locally advanced or metastatic functional carcinoid tumors have not been demonstrated. In a randomized (1:1), double-blind, multi-center trial (RADIANT-2, NCT00412061) in 429 patients with carcinoid tumors, AFINITOR in combination with long-acting octreotide (Sandostatin LAR®) was compared to placebo in combination with long-acting octreotide. After documented radiological progression, patients on the placebo arm could receive AFINITOR; of those randomized to placebo, 67% received open-label AFINITOR in combination with long-acting octreotide. The study did not meet its major efficacy outcome measure of a statistically significant improvement in PFS and the final analysis of OS favored the placebo in combination with long-acting octreotide arm.

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)

An international, multi-center, randomized, double-blind trial (RECORD-1, NCT00410124) comparing AFINITOR 10 mg once daily and placebo, both in conjunction with BSC, was conducted in patients with metastatic RCC whose disease had progressed despite prior treatment with sunitinib, sorafenib, or both sequentially. Prior therapy with bevacizumab, interleukin 2, or interferon-α was also permitted. Randomization was stratified according to prognostic score and prior anticancer therapy. The major efficacy outcome measure for the trial was PFS evaluated by RECIST, based on a blinded, independent, central radiologic review. After documented radiological progression, patients randomized to placebo could receive open-label AFINITOR. Other outcome measures included OS.

In total, 416 patients were randomized 2:1 to receive AFINITOR (n = 277) or placebo (n = 139). Demographics were well balanced between the arms (median age 61 years; 77% male, 88% White, 74% received prior sunitinib or sorafenib, and 26% received both sequentially).

AFINITOR was superior to placebo for PFS (Table 23 and Figure 4). The treatment effect was similar across prognostic scores and prior sorafenib and/or sunitinib. Final OS results yield a hazard ratio of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.71, 1.14), with no statistically significant difference between the arms. Planned cross-over from placebo due to disease progression to open-label AFINITOR occurred in 80% of the 139 patients and may have confounded the OS benefit.

Table 23: Progression-Free Survival and Objective Response Rate by Central Radiologic Review in RCC in RECORD-1

  AFINITOR
N = 277
Placebo
N = 139
Hazard Ratio (95% CI) p-valuea
Median Progression-free Survival (95% CI) 4.9 months (4.0, 5.5) 1.9 months (1.8, 1.9) 0.33 (0.25, 0.43) < 0.0001
Objective Response Rate 2% 0% n/ab n/ab
aLog-rank test stratified by prognostic score.

Figure 4: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Progression-Free Survival in RCC in RECORD-1

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)-Associated Renal Angiomyolipoma

A randomized (2:1), double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (EXIST-2, NCT00790400) of AFINITOR was conducted in 118 patients with renal angiomyolipoma as a feature of TSC (n = 113) or sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis (n = 5). The key eligibility requirements for this trial were at least one angiomyolipoma of ≥ 3 cm in longest diameter on CT/MRI based on local radiology assessment, no immediate indication for surgery, and age ≥ 18 years. Patients received AFINITOR 10 mg or matching placebo orally once daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. CT or MRI scans for disease assessment were obtained at baseline, 12, 24, and 48 weeks and annually thereafter. Clinical and photographic assessment of skin lesions were conducted at baseline and every 12 weeks thereafter until treatment discontinuation. The major efficacy outcome measure was angiomyolipoma response rate based on independent central radiology review, which was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in angiomyolipoma volume, absence of new angiomyolipoma lesion ≥ 1 cm, absence of kidney volume increase ≥ 20%, and no angiomyolipoma related bleeding of ≥ Grade 2. Key supportive efficacy outcome measures were time to angiomyolipoma progression and skin lesion response rate. The primary analyses of efficacy outcome measures were limited to the blinded treatment period and conducted 6 months after the last patient was randomized. The comparative angiomyolipoma response rate analysis was stratified by use of enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs) at randomization (yes vs. no).

Of the 118 patients enrolled, 79 were randomized to AFINITOR and 39 to placebo. The median age was 31 years (18 to 61 years), 34% were male, and 89% were White. At baseline, 17% of patients were receiving EIAEDs. On central radiology review at baseline, 92% of patients had at least 1 angiomyolipoma of ≥ 3 cm in longest diameter, 29% had angiomyolipomas ≥ 8 cm, 78% had bilateral angiomyolipomas, and 97% had skin lesions. The median values for the sum of all target renal angiomyolipoma lesions at baseline were 85 cm³ (9 to 1612 cm³) and 120 cm³ (3 to 4520 cm³) in the AFINITOR and placebo arms, respectively. Forty-six (39%) patients had prior renal embolization or nephrectomy. The median duration of follow-up was 8.3 months (0.7 to 24.8 months) at the time of the primary analysis.

The renal angiomyolipoma response rate was statistically significantly higher in AFINITOR-treated patients (Table 24). The median response duration was 5.3+ months (2.3+ to 19.6+ months).

There were 3 patients in the AFINITOR arm and 8 patients in the placebo arm with documented angiomyolipoma progression by central radiologic review (defined as a ≥ 25% increase from nadir in the sum of angiomyolipoma target lesion volumes to a value greater than baseline, appearance of a new angiomyolipoma ≥ 1 cm in longest diameter, an increase in renal volume ≥ 20% from nadir for either kidney and to a value greater than baseline, or Grade ≥ 2 angiomyolipoma-related bleeding). The time to angiomyolipoma progression was statistically significantly longer in the AFINITOR arm (HR 0.08 [95% CI: 0.02, 0.37]; p < 0.0001).

Table 24: Angiomyolipoma Response Rate in TSC-Associated Renal Angiomyolipoma in EXIST-2

  AFINITOR
N = 79
Placebo
N = 39
p-value
Primary analysis
Angiomyolipoma response ratea - % 95% CI 41.8 (30.8, 53.4) 0 (0.0, 9.0) < 0.0001
aPer independent central radiology review

Skin lesion response rates were assessed by local investigators for 77 patients in the AFINITOR arm and 37 patients in the placebo arm who presented with skin lesions at study entry. The skin lesion response rate was statistically significantly higher in the AFINITOR arm (26% vs. 0, p = 0.0011); all skin lesion responses were partial responses, defined as visual improvement in 50% to 99% of all skin lesions durable for at least 8 weeks (Physician's Global Assessment of Clinical Condition).

Patients randomized to placebo were permitted to receive AFINITOR at the time of angiomyolipoma progression or after the time of the primary analysis. After the primary analysis, patients treated with AFINITOR underwent additional follow-up CT or MRI scans to assess tumor status until discontinuation of treatment or completion of 4 years of follow-up after the last patient was randomized. A total of 112 patients (79 randomized to AFINITOR and 33 randomized to placebo) received at least one dose of AFINITOR. The median duration of AFINITOR treatment was 3.9 years (0.5 months to 5.3 years) and the median duration of follow-up was 3.9 years (0.9 months to 5.4 years). During the follow-up period after the primary analysis, 32 patients (in addition to the 33 patients identified at the time of the primary analysis) had an angiomyolipoma response based upon independent central radiology review. Among the 65 responders out of 112 patients, the median time to angiomyolipoma response was 2.9 months (2.6 to 33.8 months). Fourteen percent of the 112 patients treated with AFINITOR had angiomyolipoma progression by the end of the follow-up period. No patient underwent a nephrectomy for angiomyolipoma progression and one patient underwent renal embolization while treated with AFINITOR.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)-Associated Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma (SEGA)

EXIST-1

A randomized (2:1), double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (EXIST-1, NCT00789828) of AFINITOR was conducted in 117 pediatric and adult patients with SEGA and TSC. Eligible patients had at least one SEGA lesion ≥ 1 cm in longest diameter on MRI based on local radiology assessment and one or more of the following: serial radiological evidence of SEGA growth, a new SEGA lesion ≥ 1 cm in longest diameter, or new or worsening hydrocephalus. Patients randomized to the treatment arm received AFINITOR at a starting dose of 4.5 mg/m² daily, with subsequent dose adjustments as needed to achieve and maintain everolimus trough concentrations of 5 to 15 ng/mL as tolerated. AFINITOR or matched placebo continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. MRI scans for disease assessment were obtained at baseline, 12, 24, and 48 weeks, and annually thereafter.

The main efficacy outcome measure was SEGA response rate based on independent central radiology review. SEGA response was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in the sum of SEGA volume relative to baseline, in the absence of unequivocal worsening of non-target SEGA lesions, a new SEGA lesion ≥ 1 cm, and new or worsening hydrocephalus. The primary analysis of SEGA response rate was limited to the blinded treatment period and conducted 6 months after the last patient was randomized. The analysis of SEGA response rate was stratified by use of enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs) at randomization (yes vs. no).

Of the 117 patients enrolled, 78 were randomized to AFINITOR and 39 to placebo. The median age was 9.5 years (0.8 to 26 years); a total of 20 patients were < 3 years, 54 patients were 3 to < 12 years, 27 patients were 12 to < 18 years, and 16 patients were ≥ 18 years; 57% were male, and 93% were White. At baseline, 18% of patients were receiving EIAEDs. Based on central radiology review at baseline, 98% of patients had at least one SEGA lesion ≥ 1.0 cm in longest diameter, 79% had bilateral SEGAs, 43% had ≥ 2 target SEGA lesions, 26% had growth in or into the inferior surface of the ventricle, 9% had evidence of growth beyond the subependymal tissue adjacent to the ventricle, and 7% had radiographic evidence of hydrocephalus. The median values for the sum of all target SEGA lesions at baseline were 1.63 cm³ (0.18 to 25.15 cm³) and 1.30 cm³ (0.32 to 9.75 cm³) in the AFINITOR and placebo arms respectively. Eight (7%) patients had prior SEGA-related surgery. The median duration of follow-up was 8.4 months (4.6 to 17.2 months) at the time of primary analysis.

The SEGA response rate was statistically significantly higher in AFINITOR-treated patients (Table 25). At the time of the primary analysis, all SEGA responses were ongoing and the median duration of response was 5.3 months (2.1 to 8.4 months).

With a median follow-up of 8.4 months, SEGA progression was detected in 15.4% of the 39 patients randomized to receive placebo and none of the 78 patients randomized to receive AFINITOR. No patient in either treatment arm required surgical intervention.

Table 25: Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma Response Rate in TSC-Associated SEGA in EXIST-1

  AFINITOR
N = 78
Placebo
N = 39
p-value
Primary analysis
SEGA response ratea - (%) 35 0 < 0.0001
95% CI 24, 46 0, 9  
a Per independent central radiology review

Patients randomized to placebo were permitted to receive AFINITOR at the time of SEGA progression or after the primary analysis, whichever occurred first. After the primary analysis, patients treated with AFINITOR underwent additional follow-up MRI scans to assess tumor status until discontinuation of treatment or completion of 4 years of follow-up after the last patient was randomized. A total of 111 patients (78 patients randomized to AFINITOR and 33 patients randomized to placebo) received at least one dose of AFINITOR. Median duration of AFINITOR treatment and follow-up was 3.9 years (0.2 to 4.9 years).

By four years after the last patient was enrolled, 58% of the 111 patients treated with AFINITOR had a ≥ 50% reduction in SEGA volume relative to baseline, including 27 patients identified at the time of the primary analysis and 37 patients with a SEGA response after the primary analysis. The median time to SEGA response was 5.3 months (2.5 to 33.1 months). Twelve percent of the 111 patients treated with AFINITOR had documented disease progression by the end of the follow-up period and no patient required surgical intervention for SEGA during the study.

Study 2485

Study 2485 (NCT00411619) was an open-label, single-arm trial conducted to evaluate the antitumor activity of AFINITOR 3 mg/m²/orally once daily in patients with SEGA and TSC. Serial radiological evidence of SEGA growth was required for entry. Tumor assessments were performed every 6 months for 60 months after the last patient was enrolled or disease progression, whichever occurred earlier. The major efficacy outcome measure was the reduction in volume of the largest SEGA lesion with 6 months of treatment, as assessed via independent central radiology review. Progression was defined as an increase in volume of the largest SEGA lesion over baseline that was ≥ 25% over the nadir observed on study.

A total of 28 patients received AFINITOR for a median duration of 5.7 years (5 months to 6.9 years); 82% of the 28 patients remained on AFINITOR for at least 5 years. The median age was 11 years (3 to 34 years), 61% male, 86% White.

At the primary analysis, 32% of the 28 patients (95% CI: 16%, 52%) had an objective response at 6 months, defined as at least a 50% decrease in volume of the largest SEGA lesion. At the completion of the study, the median duration of durable response was 12 months (3 months to 6.3 years).

By 60 months after the last patient was enrolled, 11% of the 28 patients had documented disease progression. No patient developed a new SEGA lesion while on AFINITOR. Nine additional patients were identified as having a > 50% volumetric reduction in their largest SEGA lesion between 1 to 4 years after initiating AFINITOR including 3 patients who had surgical resection with subsequent regrowth prior to receiving AFINITOR.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)-Associated Partial-Onset Seizures

The efficacy of AFINITOR DISPERZ as an adjunctive anti-epileptic drug (AED) was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled study conducted in patients with TSC-associated partial-onset seizures (EXIST-3, NCT01713946). Patients with a history of inadequate control of partial-onset seizures despite treatment with ≥ 2 sequential AED regimens were randomized to receive placebo or AFINITOR DISPERZ once daily at a dose to achieve a low trough (LT) level (3-7 ng/mL) or a high trough (HT) level (9-15 ng/mL). Randomization was stratified by age group (1 to < 6, 6 to < 12, 12 to < 18, ≥ 18 years). The study consisted of 3 phases: an 8-week Baseline observation phase; an 18-week double-blind, placebo-controlled Core phase (6-week titration period and a 12-week maintenance period), and an Extension phase of ≥ 48 weeks. Patients were required to have a diagnosis of TSC per the modified Gomez criteria, and ≥ 16 partial-onset seizures during the Baseline phase while receiving a stable dose of 1 to 3 concomitant AEDs. The starting doses for AFINITOR DISPERZ in the Core phase ranged from 3 to 6 mg/m² orally once daily, depending on age, in patients not receiving concomitant CYP3A4/P-gp inducers and from 5 to 9 mg/m² orally once daily, depending on age, in patients receiving concomitant CYP3A4/P-gp inducers. During the 6-week titration period, everolimus trough levels were assessed every 2 weeks and up to 3 dose adjustments were allowed to attempt to reach the targeted everolimus trough concentration range.

The major efficacy outcome measure was the percentage reduction in seizure frequency from the Baseline phase, during the maintenance period of the Core phase. Additional efficacy outcome measures included response rate, defined as at least a 50% reduction in seizure frequency from the Baseline phase during the maintenance period of the Core phase, and seizure freedom rate during the maintenance period of the Core phase.

A total of 366 patients were randomized to AFINITOR DISPERZ LT (n = 117), AFINITOR DISPERZ HT (n = 130) or placebo (n = 119). Median age was 10.1 years (2.2 to 56 years); 28% of patients were < 6 years, 31% were 6 to < 12 years, 22% were 12 to < 18 years, and 18% were ≥ 18 years). The majority were White (65%) and male (52%). The most common major features of TSC were cortical tubers (92%), hypomelanotic macules (84%), and subependymal nodules (83%). While 17% of the patients had SEGA, 42% had renal angiomyolipoma, and 9% had both SEGA and renal angiomyolipoma; no patients were receiving treatment with AFINITOR or AFINITOR DISPERZ for these manifestations of TSC. During the Baseline phase, 65% of patients had complex partial seizures, 52% had secondarily generalized seizures, 19% had simple partial seizures, and 2% had generalized onset seizures. The median seizure frequency per week during the Baseline phase was 9.4 for all patients and 47% of patients were receiving 3 AEDs during the Baseline phase. The efficacy results are summarized in Table 26.

Table 26: Percentage Reduction in Seizure Frequency and Response Rate in TSC-Associated Partial-Onset Seizures in EXIST-3

  AFINITOR DISPERZ Placebo
N = 119
Target of 3-7 ng/mL
N = 117
Target of 9-15 ng/mL
N = 130
Seizures per week
Median at Baseline (Min, Max) 8.6
(1.4, 192.9)
9.5
(0.3, 218.4)
10.5
(1.3, 231.7)
Median at Core phasea (Min, Max) 6.8
(0.0, 193.5)
4.9
(0.0, 133.7)
8.5
(0.0, 217.7)
Percentage reduction from Baseline to Core phase (Maintenance a)
Median 29.3 39.6 14.9
95% CIb 18.8, 41.9 35.0, 48.7 0.1, 21.7
p-valuec 0.003 < 0.001
Response rate
Responders, n (%) 28.2 40 15.1
95% CId 20.3, 37.3 31.5, 49.0 9.2, 22.8
aIf patient discontinued before starting the Maintenance period, then the Titration period is used
b95% CI of the median based on bootstrap percentiles
cp-values were for superiority vs. placebo, and obtained from rank ANCOVA with Baseline seizure frequency as covariate, stratified by age subgroup
dExact 95% CI obtained using Clopper-Pearson method

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