Pomalidomide

Pomalidomide, in combination with dexamethasone, are indicated for adult patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who have received at least two prior therapies including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor and have demonstrated disease progression on or within 60 days of completion of the last therapy.

Pomalidomide capsules are indicated for the treatment of:

• Adult patients with AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma  (KS) after failure of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
• Kaposi sarcoma  (KS) in adult patients who are HIV-negative.

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s).

Females of reproductive potential must have negative pregnancy testing and use contraception methods before initiating pomalidomide capsules [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

The recommended dosage of pomalidomide capsules is 4 mg once daily orally with or without food on Days 1 through 21 of each 28-day cycle until disease progression. Give pomalidomide capsules in combination with dexamethasone [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

The recommended dosage of pomalidomide capsules is 5 mg once daily taken orally with or without food on Days 1 through 21 of each 28-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Continue HAART as HIV treatment in patients with AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma  (KS) [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

Multiple Myeloma: Dosage Modifications for Hematologic Adverse Reactions
Initiate a new cycle of pomalidomide capsules in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) when the neutrophil count is at least 500 per mcL and the platelet count is at least 50,000 per mcL.
Dosage modification for pomalidomide capsules for hematologic adverse reactions in patients with MM are summarized in Table 1.

Table 1: Dosage Modifications for pomalidomide capsules for Hematologic in MM

Kaposi Sarcoma: Dosage Modifications for Hematologic Adverse Reactions
Initiate a new cycle of pomalidomide capsules in patients with KS when the neutrophil count is at least 1000 per mcL and the platelet count is at least 75,000 per mcL.

Dose modifications for pomalidomide capsules for hematologic adverse reactions in patients with KS are summarized in Table 2.

Table 2: Dosage Modifications for Pomalidomide Capsules for Hematologic Adverse Reactions in KS

Permanently discontinue pomalidomide capsules for angioedema, anaphylaxis, Grade 4 rash, skin exfoliation, bullae, or any other severe dermatologic reaction [See Warnings and Precautions (5.7, 5.12)].
For other Grade 3 or 4 toxicities, hold treatment and restart treatment at 1 mg less than the previous dose when toxicity has resolved to less than or equal to Grade 2 at the physician’s discretion.

Avoid concomitant use of pomalidomide capsules with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors. If concomitant use of a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor is unavoidable, reduce pomalidomide capsules dose to 2 mg [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Take pomalidomide capsules after completion of dialysis procedure on hemodialysis days [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

• For patients with MM with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, reduce the recommended dosage to 3 mg orally daily.
• For patients with KS with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, reduce the recommended dosage to 4 mg orally daily.

Multiple Myeloma
For patients with MM with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A or B), reduce the recommended dosage to 3 mg orally daily.  
For patients with MM with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C), reduce the recommended dosage to 2 mg [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Kaposi Sarcoma
For patients with KS with mild, moderate, or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A, B, or C), reduce the recommended dosage to 3 mg orally daily [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not break, chew, or open the capsules.

Pomalidomide capsules may be taken with or without food

Pomalidomide capsules are contraindicated in females who are pregnant. Pomalidomide capsules can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Pomalidomide is a thalidomide analogue and is teratogenic in both rats and rabbits when administered during the period of organogenesis. If the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to a fetus.

Pomalidomide Capsules are contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated severe hypersensitivity (e.g., angioedema, anaphylaxis) to pomalidomide or any of the excipients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 ), Description (11)].

Pomalidomide capsules are a thalidomide analogue and are contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Thalidomide is a known human teratogen that causes severe birth defects or embryo-fetal death [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Pomalidomide capsules are only available through PS-Pomalidomide REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Females of Reproductive Potential
Females of reproductive potential must avoid pregnancy for at least 4 weeks before beginning Pomalidomide Capsules therapy, during therapy, during dose interruptions and for at least 4 weeks after completing therapy.

Females must commit either to abstain continuously from heterosexual sexual intercourse or to use 2 methods of reliable birth control, beginning 4 weeks prior to initiating treatment with pomalidomide capsules, during therapy, during dose interruptions, and continuing for 4 weeks following discontinuation of pomalidomide capsules therapy.

Two negative pregnancy tests must be obtained prior to initiating therapy. The first test should be performed within 10-14 days and the second test within 24 hours prior to prescribing pomalidomide capsules therapy and then weekly during the first month, then monthly thereafter in females with regular menstrual cycles, or every 2 weeks in females with irregular menstrual cycles [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Males
Pomalidomide is present in the semen of patients receiving the drug. Therefore, males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking pomalidomide capsules and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing pomalidomide capsules, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking pomalidomide capsules must not donate sperm [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Blood Donation
Patients must not donate blood during treatment with pomalidomide capsules and for 4 weeks following discontinuation of the drug because the blood might be given to a pregnant female patient whose fetus must not be exposed to pomalidomide capsules.

Because of the embryo-fetal risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)], pomalidomide capsules are available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS), “PS-Pomalidomide REMS”.

Required components of PS-Pomalidomide REMS include the following:

• Prescribers must be certified with PS-Pomalidomide REMS by enrolling and complying with the REMS requirements.
• Patients must sign a Patient-Physician Agreement Form and comply with the REMS requirements. In particular, female patients of reproductive potential who are not pregnant must
  comply with the pregnancy testing and contraception requirements [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] and males must comply with contraception requirements [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
• Pharmacies must be certified with PS-Pomalidomide REMS, must only dispense to patients who are authorized to receive pomalidomide capsules and comply with REMS requirements.

Further information about PS-Pomalidomide REMS is available at www.PS-PomalidomideREMS.com or by telephone at 1-888-423-5436.

Venous thromboembolic events (deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and arterial thromboembolic events (myocardial infarction and stroke) have been observed in patients treated with pomalidomide capsules. In Trial 2, where anticoagulant therapies were mandated, thromboembolic events occurred in 8.0% of patients treated with pomalidomide capsules and low dose-dexamethasone (Low-dose Dex), and 3.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone. Venous thromboembolic events (VTE) occurred in 4.7% of patients treated with pomalidomide capsules and Low-dose Dex, and 1.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone. Arterial thromboembolic events include terms for arterial thromboembolic events, ischemic cerebrovascular conditions, and ischemic heart disease. Arterial thromboembolic events occurred in 3.0% of patients treated with pomalidomide capsules and Low-dose Dex, and 1.3% of patients treated with high-dose dexamethasone.

Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk, and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended, and the choice of regimen should be based on assessment of the patient's underlying risk factors.

In two randomized clinical trials in patients with MM, the addition of pembrolizumab to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone, a use for which no PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody is indicated, resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of patients with MM with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in combination with a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials.

Multiple Myeloma

 In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex, neutropenia was the most frequently reported Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction, followed by anemia and thrombocytopenia. Neutropenia of any grade was reported in 51% of patients in both trials. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was 46%. The rate of febrile neutropenia was 8%.

Monitor patients for hematologic toxicities, especially neutropenia. Monitor complete blood counts weekly for the first 8 weeks and monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Kaposi Sarcoma
In Trial 12-C-0047, hematologic toxicities were the most common (all grades and Grade 3 or 4) adverse reactions [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Fifty percent of patients had Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for hematologic toxicities, especially decreased neutrophils. Monitor complete blood counts every 2 weeks for the first 12 weeks and monthly thereafter. Withhold, reduce the dose, or permanently discontinue pomalidomide based on the severity of the reaction [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has occurred in patients treated with pomalidomide capsules. Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin have also been observed in patients treated with pomalidomide capsules. Monitor liver function tests monthly. Stop pomalidomide capsules upon elevation of liver enzymes and evaluate. After return to baseline values, treatment at a lower dose may be considered.

Severe cutaneous reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been reported. DRESS may present with a cutaneous reaction (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis), eosinophilia, fever, and/or lymphadenopathy with systemic complications such as hepatitis, nephritis, pneumonitis, myocarditis, and/or pericarditis. These reactions can be fatal. Consider pomalidomide capsules interruption or discontinuation for Grade 2 or 3 skin rash. Permanently discontinue pomalidomide capsules for Grade 4 rash, exfoliative or bullous rash, or for other severe cutaneous reactions such as SJS, TEN or DRESS [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received pomalidomide capsules + Low-dose Dex, 14% of patients experienced dizziness and 7% of patients experienced a confusional state; 1% of patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 dizziness, and 3% of patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 confusional state. Instruct patients to avoid situations where dizziness or confusional state may be a problem and not to take other medications that may cause dizziness or confusional state without adequate medical advice.

In trials 1 and 2 in patients who received pomalidomide capsules + Low-dose Dex, 18% of patients experienced neuropathy, with approximately 12% of the patients experiencing peripheral neuropathy. Two percent of patients experienced Grade 3 neuropathy in trial 2. There were no cases of Grade 4 neuropathy adverse reactions reported in either trial.

Cases of acute myelogenous leukemia have been reported in patients receiving pomalidomide capsules as an investigational therapy outside of MM.

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) may occur in patients treated with pomalidomide. Patients at risk for TLS are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. These patients should be monitored closely and appropriate precautions taken.

Hypersensitivity, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and anaphylactic reactions to pomalidomide capsules have been reported. Permanently discontinue pomalidomide capsules for angioedema or anaphylaxis [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

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.

Multiple Myeloma (MM)
In Trial 1, data were evaluated from 219 patients (safety population) who received treatment with Pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex (112 patients) or pomalidomide alone (107 patients). Median number of treatment cycles was 5. Sixty-seven percent of patients in the study had a dose interruption of either drug due to adverse reactions. Forty-two percent of patients in the study had a dose reduction of either drug due to adverse reactions. The discontinuation rate due to adverse reactions was 11%.

In Trial 2, data were evaluated from 450 patients (safety population) who received treatment with Pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex (300 patients) or High-dose Dexamethasone (High-dose Dex) (150 patients). The median number of treatment cycles for the Pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex arm was 5. In the Pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex arm, 67% of patients had a dose interruption of pomalidomide capsules, the median time to the first dose interruption of pomalidomide was 4.1 weeks. Twenty-seven percent of patients had a dose reduction of pomalidomide, the median time to the first dose reduction of pomalidomide was 4.5 weeks. Eight percent of patients discontinued pomalidomide due to adverse reactions.

Tables 3 and 4 summarize the adverse reactions reported in Trials 1 and 2, respectively.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions in Any Pomalidomide Capsules Treatment Arm in Trial 1*

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of pomalidomide capsules. 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: Pancytopenia

Endocrine Disorders: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Gastrointestinal hemorrhage

Hepatobiliary Disorders: Hepatic failure (including fatal cases), elevated liver enzymes

Immune system Disorders: Allergic reactions (e.g., angioedema, anaphylaxis, urticaria), solid organ transplant rejection
Infections and Infestations: Hepatitis B virus reactivation, Herpes zoster, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (incl cysts and polyps): Tumor lysis syndrome, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)

CYP1A2 inhibitors:

In healthy subjects, co-administration of fluvoxamine, a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor, increased C_max and AUC of pomalidomide by 24% and 125% respectively [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Increased pomalidomide exposure may increase the risk of exposure related toxicities. Avoid co-administration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g. ciprofloxacin and fluvoxamine). If co-administration is unavoidable, reduce the pomalidomide capsules dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in females exposed to pomalidomide capsules during pregnancy as well as female partners of male patients who are exposed to pomalidomide capsules. This registry is also used to understand the root cause for the pregnancy. Report any suspected fetal exposure to pomalidomide capsules to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to the REMS Call Center at 1-888-423-¬5436.

Risk Summary
Based on the mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)] and findings from animal studies, pomalidomide capsules can cause embryo-fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female and is contraindicated during pregnancy [see Contraindications (4),and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Pomalidomide capsules are a thalidomide analogue. Thalidomide is a human teratogen, inducing a high frequency of severe and life-threatening birth defects such as amelia (absence of limbs), phocomelia (short limbs), hypoplasticity of the bones, absence of bones, external ear abnormalities (including anotia, micropinna, small or absent external auditory canals), facial palsy, eye abnormalities (anophthalmos, microphthalmos), and congenital heart defects. Alimentary tract, urinary tract, and genital malformations have also been documented, and mortality at or shortly after birth has been reported in about 40% of infants.

Pomalidomide was teratogenic in both rats and rabbits when administered during the period of organogenesis. Pomalidomide crossed the placenta after administration to pregnant rabbits (see Data). If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to a fetus.

If pregnancy does occur during treatment, immediately discontinue the drug. Under these conditions, refer patient to an obstetrician/gynecologist experienced in reproductive toxicity for further evaluation and counseling. Report any suspected fetal exposure to pomalidomide capsules to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to the REMS Call Center at 1-888-423-5436.

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

Data
Animal Data

Pomalidomide was teratogenic in both rats and rabbits in the embryo-fetal developmental studies when administered during the period of organogenesis.

In rats, pomalidomide was administered orally to pregnant animals at doses of 25 to 1000 mg/kg/day. Malformations or absence of urinary bladder, absence of thyroid gland, and fusion and misalignment of lumbar and thoracic vertebral elements (vertebral, central, and/or neural arches) were observed at all dose levels. There was no maternal toxicity observed in this study. The lowest dose in rats resulted in an exposure (AUC) approximately 85-fold of the human exposure at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day. Other embryo-fetal toxicities included increased resorptions leading to decreased number of viable fetuses.

In rabbits, pomalidomide was administered orally to pregnant animals at doses of 10 to 250 mg/kg/day. Increased cardiac malformations such as interventricular septal defect were seen at all doses with significant increases at 250 mg/kg/day. Additional malformations observed at 250 mg/kg/day included anomalies in limbs (flexed and/or rotated fore- and/or hindlimbs, unattached or absent digit) and associated skeletal malformations (not ossified metacarpal, misaligned phalanx and metacarpal, absent digit, not ossified phalanx, and short not ossified or bent tibia), moderate dilation of the lateral ventricle in the brain, abnormal placement of the right subclavian artery, absent intermediate lobe in the lungs, low-set kidney, altered liver morphology, incompletely or not ossified pelvis, an increased average for supernumerary thoracic ribs, and a reduced average for ossified tarsals. No maternal toxicity was observed at the low dose (10 mg/kg/day) that resulted in cardiac anomalies in fetuses; this dose resulted in an exposure (AUC) approximately equal to that reported in humans at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day. Additional embryo-fetal toxicity included increased resorption.

Following daily oral administration of pomalidomide from Gestation Day 7 through Gestation Day 20 in pregnant rabbits, fetal plasma pomalidomide concentrations were approximately 50% of the maternal C_max at all dosages (5 to 250 mg/kg/day), indicating that pomalidomide crossed the placenta.

Risk Summary

There is no information regarding the presence of pomalidomide in human milk, the effects of pomalidomide capsules on the breastfed child, or the effects of pomalidomide capsules on milk production. Pomalidomide was excreted in the milk of lactating rats (see Data). Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse reactions in a breastfed child from pomalidomide capsules, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with pomalidomide capsules.

Data
Animal Data
Following a single oral administration of pomalidomide to lactating rats approximately 14 days postpartum, pomalidomide was transferred into milk, with milk to plasma ratios of 0.63 to 1.46.

Pregnancy Testing
Pomalidomide capsules can cause fetal harm when administered during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating pomalidomide capsules therapy and during therapy. Advise females of reproductive potential that they must avoid pregnancy 4 weeks before therapy, while taking pomalidomide capsules, during dose interruptions and for at least 4 weeks after completing therapy.

Females of reproductive potential must have 2 negative pregnancy tests before initiating pomalidomide capsules. The first test should be performed within 10-14 days, and the second test within 24 hours prior to prescribing pomalidomide capsules. Once treatment has started and during dose interruptions, pregnancy testing for females of reproductive potential should occur weekly during the first 4 weeks of use, then pregnancy testing should be repeated every 4 weeks in females with regular menstrual cycles. If menstrual cycles are irregular, the pregnancy testing should occur every 2 weeks. Pregnancy testing and counseling should be performed if a patient misses her period or if there is any abnormality in her menstrual bleeding. Pomalidomide capsules treatment must be discontinued during this evaluation.

Contraception
Females
Females of reproductive potential must commit either to abstain continuously from heterosexual sexual intercourse or to use 2 methods of reliable birth control simultaneously: one highly effective form of contraception – tubal ligation, IUD, hormonal (birth control pills, injections, hormonal patches, vaginal rings, or implants), or partner’s vasectomy, and 1 additional effective contraceptive method – male latex or synthetic condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap. Contraception must begin 4 weeks prior to initiating treatment with pomalidomide capsules, during therapy, during dose interruptions, and continuing for 4 weeks following discontinuation of pomalidomide capsules therapy. Reliable contraception is indicated even where there has been a history of infertility, unless due to hysterectomy. Females of reproductive potential should be referred to a qualified provider of contraceptive methods, if needed.

Males
Pomalidomide is present in the semen of males who take pomalidomide capsules. Therefore, males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking pomalidomide capsules and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing pomalidomide capsules, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking pomalidomide capsules must not donate sperm.

Infertility
Based on findings in animals, female fertility may be compromised by treatment with pomalidomide capsules [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

The safety and effectiveness of pomalidomide capsules have not been established in pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness were assessed but not established in two open-label studies: a dose escalation study in 25 pediatric patients aged 5 to <17 with recurrent, progressive or refractory CNS tumors [NCT02415153] and a parallel-group study conducted in 47 pediatric patients aged 4 to <17 years with recurrent or progressive high-grade glioma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) [NCT03257631]. No new safety signals were observed in pediatric patients across these studies.

At the same dose by body surface area, pomalidomide exposure in 55 pediatric patients aged 4 to < 17 years old was within the range observed in adult patients with MM but higher than the exposure observed in adult patients with KS [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Multiple Myeloma
Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of pomalidomide capsules, 44% were aged older than 65 years, while 10% were aged older than 75 years. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. In these studies, patients older than 65 years were more likely than patients less than or equal to 65 years of age to experience pneumonia.

Kaposi Sarcoma
Of the 28 patients who received pomalidomide capsules, 11% were 65 years or older, and 3.6% were 75 years of age or older. The clinical study did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.

In patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, the AUC of pomalidomide increased by 38% and the rate of SAE increased by 64% relative to patients with normal renal function; therefore, starting dose adjustment is recommended. For patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, administer pomalidomide capsules after the completion of hemodialysis on dialysis days because exposure of pomalidomide could be significantly decreased during dialysis [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. 

Pomalidomide is metabolized primarily by the liver. Following single dose administration, the AUC of pomalidomide increased 51%, 58%, and 72% in subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A), moderate (Child-Pugh class B), and severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment, respectively compared to subjects with normal liver function. Dose adjustment is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.8)and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Cigarette smoking reduces pomalidomide AUC due to CYP1A2 induction. Advise patients that smoking may reduce the efficacy of pomalidomide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Pomalidomide is an analogue of thalidomide with immunomodulatory, antiangiogenic, and antineoplastic properties. Cellular activities of pomalidomide are mediated through its target cereblon, a component of a cullin ring E3 ubiquitin ligase enzyme complex. In vitro, in the presence of drug, substrate proteins (including Aiolos and Ikaros) are targeted for ubiquitination and subsequent degradation leading to direct cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects. In in vitro cellular assays, pomalidomide inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of hematopoietic tumor cells. Additionally, pomalidomide inhibited the proliferation of lenalidomide-resistant multiple myeloma (MM) cell lines and synergized with dexamethasone in both lenalidomide-sensitive and lenalidomide-resistant cell lines to induce tumor cell apoptosis. Pomalidomide enhanced T cell- and natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immunity and inhibited production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α and IL-6) by monocytes. Pomalidomide demonstrated anti-angiogenic activity in a mouse tumor model and in the in vitro umbilical cord model.

Pomalidomide exposure-response analyses showed that there was no relationship between systemic pomalidomide exposure level and efficacy or safety following pomalidomide dose of 4 mg.

Cardiac Electrophysiology
The QTc prolongation potential of pomalidomide was evaluated in a single center, randomized, double-blind crossover study (N=72) using 4 mg pomalidomide, 20 mg pomalidomide, placebo, and 400 mg moxifloxacin (positive control). No significant QTc prolongation effect of pomalidomide was observed following pomalidomide doses of 4 and 20 mg.

In patients with MM who received pomalidomide 4 mg daily alone or in combination with dexamethasone, pomalidomide steady-state drug exposure was characterized by AUC (CV%) of 860 (37%) ng∙h/mL and C_max (CV%) of 75 (32%) ng/mL. In patients with Kaposi sarcoma (KS) who received pomalidomide 5 mg daily, pomalidomide steady-state drug exposure was characterized by AUC of 462.3 ng∙h/mL (82%) and C_max of 53.1 ng/mL (50%).

Absorption

Following administration of single oral doses of pomalidomide, the maximum plasma concentration (C_max) for pomalidomide occurs at 2 to 3 hours postdose in patients with MM or KS.

Effect of Food

Co-administration of pomalidomide capsules with a high-fat meal (approximately 50% of the total caloric content) and high-calorie meal (approximately 800 to 1000 calories) (the meal contained approximately 150, 250, and 500 to 600 calories from protein, carbohydrates, and fat, respectively) delays the T_max by 2.5 hours, decreased mean plasma C_max and AUC in healthy subjects by about 27% and 8%, respectively.

Distribution

Pomalidomide has a mean apparent volume of distribution (Vd/F) between 62 and 138 L at steady state in patients with MM or KS.

Pomalidomide is distributed in semen of healthy subjects at a concentration of approximately 67% of plasma level at 4 hours postdose (~T_max) after 4 days of 2 mg once-daily dosing.

Human plasma protein binding of pomalidomide ranges from 12% to 44% and is not concentration dependent. Pomalidomide is a substrate for P-gp.

Elimination

Pomalidomide has a mean total body clearance (CL/F) of 7-10 L/h in patients with MM or KS. Pomalidomide is eliminated with a median plasma half-life of 9.5 hours in healthy subjects and 7.5 hours in patients with MM or KS.

Metabolism

Pomalidomide is primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. Minor contributions from CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 were also observed in vitro.

Excretion

Following a single oral administration of [¹⁴C]-pomalidomide to healthy subjects, approximately 73% and 15% of the radioactive dose was eliminated in urine and feces, respectively, with approximately 2% and 8% of the radiolabeled dose eliminated unchanged as pomalidomide in urine and feces.

Specific Populations

Age (61 to 85 years old), sex and race have no clinically significant effect on the systemic exposure of pomalidomide.

Patients with Renal Impairment
Pomalidomide pharmacokinetic parameters were not significantly affected in patients with moderate (30 mL/min ≤ CLcr< 60 mL/min) or severe (15 mL/min ≤ CLcr< 30 mL/min) renal impairment relative to patients with normal renal function (CLcr ≥ 60 mL/min). Mean exposure (AUC) to pomalidomide increased by 38% in patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis (CLcr< 30 mL/min requiring dialysis) and 40% in patients with end stage renal disease (CLcr< 15 mL/min) on non-dialysis days. In patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis, the estimated dialysis clearance is approximately 12 L/h which is higher than pomalidomide total body clearance, indicating hemodialysis will remove pomalidomide from the blood circulation.

Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Mean exposure (AUC) of pomalidomide increased by 51%, 58% and 72% in subjects with mild, moderate or severe hepatic impairment as defined by Child-Pugh criteria, respectively.

Drug Interaction Studies

Clinical Studies
Co-administration of pomalidomide with the following drugs did not increase pomalidomide exposure to a clinically significant extent: ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor), carbamazepine (a strong CYP3A4 inducer) and dexamethasone (a weak to moderate CYP3A4 inducer). Co-administration of pomalidomide capsules with drugs that are CYP1A2 inducers has not been studied.

CYP1A2 Inhibitors: Co-administration of fluvoxamine (a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor) with pomalidomide increased mean [90% confidence interval] pomalidomide exposure by 125% [98% to 157%] compared to pomalidomide alone in healthy subjects. Co-administration of fluvoxamine in the presence of ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) with pomalidomide increased mean pomalidomide exposure by 146% [126% to 167%] compared to pomalidomide administered alone in healthy subjects, indicating the predominant effect of CYP1A2 inhibition in the increase of pomalidomide exposure [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) andDrug Interactions (7.1)].

Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp Inhibitors: Co-administration of ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) in 16 healthy male subjects increased AUC of pomalidomide by 19% compared to pomalidomide administered alone.

Strong CYP1A2 Inducers: Co-administration of pomalidomide capsules with drugs that are CYP1A2 inducers has not been studied and may reduce pomalidomide exposure.

Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Co-administration of carbamazepine to 16 healthy male subjects decreased AUC of pomalidomide by 20% with a 90% confidence interval [13% to 27%] compared to when pomalidomide was administered alone.

Dexamethasone: Co-administration of multiple doses of 4 mg pomalidomide capsules with 20 mg to 40 mg dexamethasone (a weak to moderate inducer of CYP3A4) to patients with MM had no effect on thepharmacokinetics of pomalidomide compared to when pomalidomide was administered alone.

Smoking: In 14 healthy male subjects who smoked 25 cigarettes per day for a total of 10 days, after single oral dose of 4 mg pomalidomide capsules, C_max of pomalidomide increased 14% while AUC of pomalidomide decreased 32%, compared to that in 13 healthy male subjects who were non-smokers.

In Vitro Studies

Pomalidomide does not inhibit or induce cytochrome p450 enzymes or transporters in vitro.

Studies examining the carcinogenic potential of pomalidomide have not been conducted. One of 12 monkeys dosed with 1 mg/kg of pomalidomide (an exposure approximately 15-fold of the exposure in patients at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day) developed acute myeloid leukemia in a 9-month repeat-dose toxicology study.
Pomalidomide was not mutagenic or clastogenic in a battery of tests, including the bacteria reverse mutation assay (Ames test), the in vitro assay using human peripheral blood lymphocytes, and the micronucleus test in orally treated rats administered doses up to 2000 mg/kg/day.
In a fertility and early embryonic development study in rats, drug-treated males were mated with untreated or treated females.
Pomalidomide was administered to males and females at doses of 25 to 1000 mg/kg/day. When treated males were mated with treated females, there was an increase in post-implantation loss and a decrease in mean number of viable embryos at all dose levels. There were no other effects on reproductive functions or the number of pregnancies. The lowest dose tested in animals resulted in an exposure (AUC) approximately 100-fold of the exposure in patients at the recommended dose of 4 mg/day. When treated males in this study were mated with untreated females, all uterine parameters were comparable to the controls. Based on these results, the observed effects were attributed to the treatment of females.

Trial 1
Trial 1 was a phase 2, multicenter, randomized open-label study in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma (MM) who were refractory to their last myeloma therapy and had received lenalidomide and bortezomib. Patients were considered relapsed if they had achieved at least stable disease for at least 1 cycle of treatment to at least 1 prior regimen and then developed progressive disease. Patients were considered refractory if they experienced disease progression on or within 60 days of their last therapy. A total of 221 patients were randomized to receive pomalidomide alone or pomalidomide with Low-dose Dex. In Trial 1, the safety and efficacy of pomalidomide 4 mg, once daily for 21 of 28 days, until disease progression, were evaluated alone and in combination with Low-dose Dex (40 mg/day given only on Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of each 28-day cycle for patients aged 75 years or younger, or 20 mg/day given only on Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of each 28-day cycle for patients aged greater than 75 years). Patients in the pomalidomide alone arm were allowed to add Low-dose Dex upon disease progression.

Table 7 summarizes the baseline patient and disease characteristics in Trial 1. The baseline demographics and disease characteristics were balanced and comparable between the study arms.

Table 7: Baseline Demographic and Disease-Related Characteristics – Trial 1

Table 8 summarizes the analysis results of overall response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DOR), based on assessments by the Independent Review Adjudication Committee for the treatment arms in Trial 1. ORR did not differ based on type of prior antimyeloma therapy.

Table 8: Trial 1 Results  

 Trial 2

Trial 2 was a Phase 3 multi-center, randomized, open-label study, where pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex therapy was compared to High-dose Dex in adult patients with relapsed and refractory MM, who had received at least two prior treatment regimens, including lenalidomide and bortezomib, and demonstrated disease progression on or within 60 days of the last therapy. Patients with creatinine clearance ≥ 45mL/min qualified for the trial. A total of 455 patients were enrolled in the trial: 302 in the pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex arm and 153 in the High-dose Dex arm. Patients in the pomalidomide + Low-dose Dex arm were administered 4 mg pomalidomide orally on Days 1 to 21 of each 28-day cycle. Dexamethasone (40 mg) was administered once per day on Days 1, 8, 15 and 22 of a 28-day cycle. Patients > 75 years of age started treatment with 20 mg dexamethasone using the same schedule. For the High-dose Dex arm, dexamethasone (40 mg) was administered once per day on Days 1 through 4, 9 through 12, and 17 through 20 of a 28-day cycle. Patients > 75 years of age started treatment with 20 mg dexamethasone using the same schedule. Treatment continued until patients had disease progression.

Baseline patient and disease characteristics were balanced and comparable between the study arms, as summarized in Table 9. Overall, 94% of patients had disease refractory to lenalidomide, 79% had disease refractory to bortezomib and 74% had disease refractory to both lenalidomide and bortezomib.

The clinical trial 12-C-0047 (NCT01495598), was an open label, single center, single arm clinical study that evaluated the safety and efficacy of pomalidomide capsules in patients with Kaposi sarcoma (KS). A total of 28 patients (18 HIV-positive, 10 HIV-negative) received pomalidomide capsules 5 mg orally once daily on Days 1 through 21 of each 28-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. All HIV-positive patients continued highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The trial excluded patients with symptomatic pulmonary or visceral KS, history of venous or arterial thromboembolism, or procoagulant disorders. Patients received thromboprophylaxis with aspirin 81 mg once daily throughout therapy.
The median age was 52.5 years, all were male, 75% were White, and 14% Black or African American. Seventy- five percent of patients had advanced disease (T1) at the time of enrollment, 11% had ≥ 50 lesions, and 75% had received prior chemotherapy.
The major efficacy outcome measure was overall response rate (ORR), which included complete response (CR), clinical complete response (cCR), and partial response (PR). Response was assessed by the investigator according to the AIDS Clinical Trial Group (ACTG) Oncology Committee response criteria for KS. The median time to first response was 1.8 months (0.9 to 7.6). Efficacy results are presented in Table 11.

Table 11: Trial 12-C-0047 Results

MEDICATION GUIDE

Pomalidomide (poe˝-ma-lid’-oh-mide) capsules

What is the most important information I should know about pomalidomide capsules?

 Before you begin taking pomalidomide capsules, you must read and agree to all of the instructions in PS-Pomalidomide REMS. For more information, call 1-888-423-5436 or go to www.PS-PomalidomideREMS.com. Before prescribing pomalidomide capsules, your healthcare provider will explain PS-

Pomalidomide REMS to you and have you sign the Patient-Physician Agreement Form.

Pomalidomide capsules can cause serious side effects including:

• Possible birth defects (deformed babies) or death of an unborn baby. Females who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant must not take pomalidomide capsules.

 Pomalidomide capsules are similar to the medicine thalidomide (THALOMID). We know thalidomide can cause severe life- threatening birth defects. Pomalidomide capsules have not been tested in pregnant females. Pomalidomide capsules have harmed unborn animals in animal testing.

 Females must not get pregnant:

•  For at least 4 weeks before starting pomalidomide capsules
•  While taking pomalidomide capsules
• During any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment with pomalidomide capsules
• For at least 4 weeks after stopping pomalidomide capsules

Females who can become pregnant:

•  Will have pregnancy tests weekly for 4 weeks, then every 4 weeks if your menstrual cycle is regular, or every 2 weeks if your menstrual cycle is irregular.

       If you miss your period or have unusual bleeding, you will need to have a pregnancy test and receive counseling.

• Must agree to use two acceptable forms of birth control at the same time, for at least 4 weeks before, while taking, during any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment, and for at least 4 weeks after stopping pomalidomide capsules.
• Talk with your healthcare provider to find out about options for acceptable forms of birth control that you may use to prevent pregnancy before, during, and after treatment with pomalidomide capsules.

If you become pregnant while taking pomalidomide capsules, stop taking it right away and call your healthcare provider. If your healthcare provider is not available, you can call the REMS Call Center at 1-888-423-5436.

Healthcare providers and patients should report all cases of pregnancy to:

• FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088, and
• REMS Call Center at 1-888-423-5436
  

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors the outcomes of females who take pomalidomide capsules during pregnancy, or if their male partner takes pomalidomide capsules and they are exposed during pregnancy. You can enroll in this registry by calling the REMS Call Center at the phone number listed above.
Pomalidomide can pass into human semen:

• Males, including those who have had a vasectomy, must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with a pregnant female or a female that can become pregnant while taking pomalidomide capsules, during any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment with pomalidomide capsules, and for 4 weeks after stopping pomalidomide capsules.
• Do not have unprotected sexual contact with a female who is or could become pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider if you do have unprotected sexual contact with a female who is or could become pregnant.
• Do not donate sperm while taking pomalidomide capsules, during any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment, and for 4 weeks after stopping pomalidomide capsules. If a female becomes pregnant with your sperm, the baby may be exposed to pomalidomide capsules and may be born with birth defects.

Men, if your female partner becomes pregnant, you should call your healthcare provider right away.

• Blood clots in your arteries, veins, and lungs, heart attack, and stroke can happen if you take pomalidomide capsules.Most people who take pomalidomide capsules will also take a blood thinner medicine to help prevent blood clots. Before taking pomalidomide capsules, tell your healthcare provider: 
  •  If you have had a blood clot in the past 
  • If you have high blood pressure, smoke, or if you have been told you have a high level of fat in your blood (hyperlipidemia)
  • About all the medicines you take. Certain other medicines can also increase your risk for blood clots
   Call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you get any of the following during treatment with pomalidomide capsules:

• Signs or symptoms of a blood clot in the lung, arm, or leg may include: shortness of breath, chest pain, or arm or leg swelling
•  Signs or symptoms of a heart attack may include: chest pain that may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach area (abdomen), feeling sweaty, shortness of breath, feeling sick or vomiting
•  Signs or symptoms of stroke may include: sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, severe headache or confusion, or problems with vision, speech, or balance.

What are pomalidomide capsules?

Pomalidomide capsules are a prescription medicine used to treat adults with:

• Multiple myeloma. Pomalidomide capsules are taken along with the medicine dexamethasone, in people who: 
  • have received at least 2 prior medicines to treat multiple myeloma, including a type of medicine known as a proteasome inhibitor and lenalidomide, and 
  • their disease has become worse during treatment or within 60 days of finishing the last treatment.
•   AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma (KS). Pomalidomide capsules are taken when highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has not worked well enough or stopped working (failed).

• KS who do not have HIV infection (HIV negative). 

It is not known if pomalidomide capsules are safe and effective in children.

Who should not take pomalidomide capsules?
Do not take pomalidomide capsules if you:

• are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or become pregnant during treatment with pomalidomide capsules. See “What is the most important information I should know about pomalidomide capsules?”
• are allergic to pomalidomide or any of the ingredients in pomalidomide capsules. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in pomalidomide capsules.  

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking pomalidomide capsules?

Before you take pomalidomide capsules, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• smoke cigarettes. Pomalidomide capsules may not work as well in people who smoke

• have liver problems

• have kidney problems and are receiving hemodialysis treatment

• have any other medical conditions

• are breastfeeding. You should not breastfeed during treatment with pomalidomide capsules. It is not known if pomalidomide passes into your breast milk and can harm your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Pomalidomide capsules and other medicines may affect each other, causing serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking any new medicines.

  Know the medicines  you take. Keep  a list of  them  to  show  your  health care  provider and  pharmacist.

How should I take pomalidomide capsules?

• Take pomalidomide capsules exactly as prescribed and follow all the instructions of PS-Pomalidomide REMS.

• Swallow pomalidomide capsules whole with water 1 time a day. Do not break, chew, or open your capsules.

• Pomalidomide capsules may be taken with or without food.

• Take pomalidomide capsules at about the same time each day.

• If you are on hemodialysis, take pomalidomide capsules after hemodialysis, on hemodialysis days.

• Do not open the pomalidomide capsules or handle them any more than needed. If you touch a broken pomalidomide capsule or the medicine in the capsule, wash the area of your body right away with soap and water.

• If you miss a dose of pomalidomide capsules and it has been less than 12 hours since your regular time, take it as soon as you remember. If it has been more than 12 hours, just skip your missed dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

•  If you take too much pomalidomide capsules, call your healthcare provider right away.

What should I avoid while taking pomalidomide capsules?

• See “What is the most important information I should know about pomalidomide capsules?”

• Females: Do not get pregnant and do not breastfeed while taking pomalidomide capsules.

• Males: Do not donate sperm.

• Do not share pomalidomide capsules with other people. It may cause birth defects and other serious problems.

• Do not donate blood while you take pomalidomide capsules, during any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment, and for 4 weeks after stopping pomalidomide capsules. If someone who is pregnant gets your donated blood, her baby may be exposed to pomalidomide capsules and may be born with birth defects.

• Pomalidomide capsules can cause dizziness and confusion. Avoid taking other medicines that may cause dizziness and confusion during treatment with pomalidomide capsules. Avoid situations that require you to be alert until you know how pomalidomide capsules affects you.