Winrho SDF

WinRho® SDF is a sterile, liquid gamma globulin (IgG) fraction containing antibodies to the Rho(D) antigen (D antigen). WinRho® SDF is to be administered intravenously for the treatment of ITP and either intravenously or intramuscularly for the suppression of Rh isoimmunization.

WinRho® SDF is prepared from human plasma by an anion-exchange column chromatography method. The manufacturing process includes two steps implemented specifically for viral clearance. The solvent detergent treatment step (using tri-n-butyl phosphate and Triton® X-100) is effective in inactivating lipid enveloped viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Virus filtration, using a Planova™ 20N virus filter is effective in the removal of some non-lipid enveloped viruses. These two processes are designed to increase product safety by reducing the risk of transmission of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, respectively. In addition to the two specific steps, the anion-exchange chromatography step contributes to the removal of small non-lipid enveloped viruses.

The inactivation and reduction of known enveloped and non-enveloped model viruses were validated in laboratory studies as summarized in Table 5.

Table 5 : Virus Reduction Values Obtained Through Validation Studies

The product potency is expressed in international units by comparison to the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. In the past, a full dose of Rho(D) Immune Globulin (Human) has traditionally been referred to as a “300 microgram” dose. Potency and dosing recommendations are now expressed in international units by comparison to the WHO anti-Rho(D) standard. The conversion of “microgram” to “international units” is: 1 microgram = 5 international units. A 1,500 international unit (300 microgram [mcg]) vial contains sufficient anti-Rho(D) to effectively suppress the immunizing potential of approximately 17 mL of Rho(D) (D-positive) RBCs.

The liquid formulation is stabilized with 10% maltose and 0.03% polysorbate 80. There are no preservatives in the formulation. WinRho® SDF does not contain mercury. This product contains approximately 5 micrograms/mL IgA.

Serious adverse reactions, some of these cases resulted in fatal outcome, have been observed in patients receiving WinRho® SDF for the treatment of ITP. These include: intravascular hemolysis (IVH), clinically compromising anemia, acute renal insufficiency and DIC [see Post-marketing Experience below].

The most common adverse reactions observed for all indications are: headache, chills, fever, asthenia, pallor, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, arthralgia, myalgia, dizziness, hyperkinesia, abdominal or back pain, hypotension, hypertension, increased LDH, somnolence, vasodilation, pruritus, rash and sweating. All adverse reactions listed occurred in ≤ 2% of WinRho® doses administered in clinical trials.

Adverse reactions observed in the use of WinRho® SDF for Suppression of Rh Isoimmunization are < 0.1% in Rho(D)-negative individuals.

Clinical Trials Experiences

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

The safety of WinRho SDF was evaluated in clinical trials (n=161) in children and adults with acute and chronic ITP and adults and children with ITP secondary to HIV. Overall, 417 adverse events were reported by 91 patients (57%). The most common adverse events were headache (14% of the patients), fever (11% of the patients) and asthenia (11% of the patients). A total of 117 adverse drug reactions were reported by 46 patients (29%). Headache, chills, and fever were the most common related adverse events (Table 4). With respect to safety profile per administration, 60/848 (7%) of WinRho® infusions had at least one adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions were headache (19 infusions; 2%), chills (14 infusions; < 2%), and fever (nine infusions; 1%).

Table 4 : Adverse Drug Reactions with an Incidence ≥ 5% of Patients

In four clinical trials of patients treated with the recommended initial intravenous dose of 250 international unit/kg (50 mcg/kg), the mean maximum decrease in hemoglobin was 1.70 g/dL (range: +0.40 to -6.1g/dL). At a reduced dose, ranging from 125 to 200 international unit/kg (25 to 40 mcg/kg), the mean maximum decrease in hemoglobin was 0.81 g/dL (range: +0.65 to -1.9 g/dL). Only 5/137 (3.7%) of patients had a maximum decrease in hemoglobin of greater than 4 g/dL (range: -4.2 to -6.1 g/dL).

In the clinical trial of 1,186 Rho(D)-negative pregnant women, no adverse reactions were reported to Rho(D) IGIV.

Post-marketing Experience

Because post-marketing adverse 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 product exposure. The following adverse reactions have been identified during the post-approval use of WinRho® SDF.

These adverse reactions are classified by system organ class.

Intravascular hemolysis (IVH) leading to death has been reported in patients treated with WinRho® SDF for immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).

Serious complications including severe anemia, acute renal insufficiency, renal failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) have also been reported.

Infusion Reactions: Anaphylactic reaction, Hypersensitivity

Hematologic: Intravascular hemolysis, Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation, Hemoglobinemia

Cardiac: Cardiac arrest, Cardiac failure, Myocardial infarction, Tachycardia

Gastrointestinal: Nausea

General: Chest pain, Fatigue, Edema

Hepatologic: Jaundice

Musculoskeletal: Myalgia, Muscle spasm, Pain in extremities

Renal: Renal failure, Renal impairment, Anuria, Chromaturia, Hemoglobinuria, Hematuria

Respiratory: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, Transfusion related acute lung injury

Integumentary: Hyperhidrosis

Infusion Reactions: Hypersensitivity, anaphylactic reaction, induration, pruritus or swelling at injection site

Integumentary: Pruritus, Rash

Healthcare professionals should report serious adverse reactions following the administration of WinRho® SDF to Cangene Corporation at 1-800-768-2304 or FDA's MedWatch reporting system by phone (1-800-FDA-1088).

Do not receive a "live" vaccine for at least 3 months after treatment with RHo (D) immune globulin. The vaccine may not work as well during this time, and may not fully protect you from disease. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), zoster (shingles), and nasal flu (influenza) vaccine.

Other drugs may interact with RHo (D) immune globulin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

In the U.S.

• BayRho-D
• HyperRHO S/D
• MicRhogam Ultra-Filtered
• Rhogam
• RhoGAM Ultra-Filtered Plus
• Rhophylac
• WinRho SDF

In Canada

• Winrho SDF

Available Dosage Forms:

• Powder for Solution
• Solution
• Injectable

Therapeutic Class: Immune Serum

It is very important that your doctor check the progress of you or your child at regular visits for any problems or unwanted effects that may be caused by this medicine. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have back pain; shaking chills; a fever; dark urine; a decreased amount of urine; a sudden weight gain; swelling of the hands or feet; or shortness of breath after receiving this medicine. These may be symptoms of a serious blood problem called intravascular hemolysis (IVH).

This medicine is made from donated human blood. Some human blood products have transmitted certain viruses to people who have received them. The risk of getting a virus from medicines made from human blood has been greatly reduced in recent years. This is the result of required testing of human donors for certain viruses, and testing during the making of these medicines. Although the risk is low, talk with your doctor if you have concerns.

This medicine may cause serious types of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you or your child have itching, a rash, hives, chest pain, dizziness or lightheadedness, trouble breathing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after you receive this medicine.

This medicine may cause blood clots, especially in patients with a history of blood clotting problems, heart disease, and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or circulation problems. Patients who stay in bed for a long time because of surgery or illness may also have blood clots. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child suddenly have chest pain, shortness of breath, a severe headache, leg pain, or problems with vision, speech, or walking.

This medicine may cause a rare and serious lung problem a few hours after it is given. Tell your doctor right away if you or your child have any breathing problems with or without a fever after you receive the medicine.

While you are being treated with Rho(D) immune globulin, do not have any immunizations (vaccines) without your doctor's approval. Live virus vaccines should not be given for 3 months after receiving Rho(D) immune globulin.

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

• Bloody urine
• decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine
• fever
• increased blood pressure
• increased thirst
• loss of appetite
• lower back pain
• nausea or vomiting
• pale skin
• swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs
• troubled breathing
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• weight gain

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

• Soreness at the place of injection

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Back pain.
• Belly pain.
• Blood in the urine.
• Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes.
• Not able to pass urine or change in how much urine is passed.
• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Shortness of breath, a big weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs.
• Feeling very tired or weak.
• Fever or chills.
• Change in color of urine.
• Very bad dizziness or passing out.
• Very bad headache.
• Fast breathing.
• Pale skin.
• Any unexplained bruising or bleeding.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Feeling sleepy.
• Pain where the shot was given.
• Redness or swelling where the shot is given.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Applies to rho (d) immune globulin: injectable, powder for solution, solution

Along with its needed effects, rho (d) immune globulin (the active ingredient contained in WinRho SDF) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking rho (d) immune globulin:

• Bloody urine
• decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine
• fever
• increased blood pressure
• increased thirst
• loss of appetite
• lower back pain
• nausea or vomiting
• pale skin
• swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs
• troubled breathing
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• weight gain

Some side effects of rho (d) immune globulin may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

• Soreness at the place of injection