BORTEZOMIB injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution

Bortezomib by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Bortezomib by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Pharmascience Inc.. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    1.1 Multiple Myeloma

    Bortezomib for injection , 3.5 mg/vial is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma.

    1.2 Mantle Cell Lymphoma

    Bortezomib for injection is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma.

  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    2.1 Important Dosing Guidelines

    Bortezomib for injection is for intravenous or subcutaneous use only. Do not administer Bortezomib for injection by any other route.

    Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered.

    The recommended starting dose of Bortezomib for injection is 1.3 mg/m 2. Bortezomib for injection is administered intravenously at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, or subcutaneously at a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL [ see  Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

    Bortezomib for injection retreatment may be considered for patients with multiple myeloma who had previously responded to treatment with Bortezomib for injection and who have relapsed at least six months after completing prior Bortezomib for injection treatment. Treatment may be started at the last tolerated dose [ see Dosage and Administration (2.6)]

    When administered intravenously, administer Bortezomib for injection as a 3 to 5 second bolus intravenous injection. 

    2.2 Dosage in Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma

    Bortezomib for injection is administered in combination with oral melphalan and oral prednisone for 9, six-week treatment cycles as shown in Table 1. In Cycles 1 to 4, Bortezomib for injection is administered twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, 11, 22, 25, 29 and 32). In Cycles 5 to 9, Bortezomib for injection is administered once weekly (Days 1, 8, 22 and 29). At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of Bortezomib for injection .

    Table 1: Dosage Regimen for Patients with Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma
    Twice Weekly Bortezomib for injection (Cycles 1 to 4)
    Week123456
    Bortezomib for injection
    (1.3 mg/m 2)     		Day
    1     		----Day
    4     		Day
    8     		Day
    11     		rest
    period     		Day
    22     		Day
    25     		Day
    29     		Day
    32     		rest
    period
    Melphalan(9 mg/m 2)
    Prednisone(60 mg/m 2)     		Day
    1     		Day
    2     		Day
    3     		Day
    4     		----rest
    period     		--------rest
    period
    Once Weekly Bortezomib for injection (Cycles 5 to 9 when used in combination with Melphalan and Prednisone)
    Week 1 2 3 4 5 6
    Bortezomib for injection
    (1.3 mg/m 2)     		Day
    1     		----Day
    8     		rest
    period     		Day
    22     		Day
    29     		rest
    period
    Melphalan(9 mg/m 2)
    Prednisone(60 mg/m 2)     		Day
    1     		Day
    2     		Day
    3     		Day
    4     		----rest
    period     		--------rest
    period

    2.3 Dose Modification Guidelines for BORTEZOMIB FOR INJECTION When Given in Combination with Melphalan and Prednisone

    Prior to initiating any cycle of therapy with Bortezomib for injection in combination with melphalan and prednisone:

    • Platelet count should be at least 70 x 10 9/L and the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1 x 10 9/L
    • Nonhematological toxicities should have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline
    Table 2: Dose Modifications during Cycles of Combination Bortezomib for injection, Melphalan and Prednisone Therapy
    ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
    Hematological toxicity during a cycle:
    If prolonged Grade 4 neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, or thrombocytopenia with bleeding is observed in the previous cycle     		Consider reduction of the melphalan dose by 25% in the next cycle
    If platelet count is not above 30 x 10 9/L or ANC is not above 0.75 x 10 9/L on a Bortezomib for injection dosing day (other than Day 1) Withhold Bortezomib for injection dose
    If several Bortezomib for injection doses in consecutive cycles are withheld due to toxicityReduce Bortezomib for injection dose by one dose level (from 1.3 mg/m 2 to 1 mg/m 2, or from 1 mg/m 2 to 0.7 mg/m 2)
    Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold Bortezomib for injection therapy until symptoms of toxicity have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline. Then, Bortezomib for injection may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m 2 to 1 mg/m 2, or from 1 mg/m 2 to 0.7 mg/m 2). For Bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify Bortezomib for injection as outlined in Table 5.

    For information concerning melphalan and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

    Dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy are provided [ see Dosage and Administration (2.7)]

    2.4 Dosage in Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma

    Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m 2) is administered intravenously in combination with intravenous rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and oral prednisone (VcR-CAP) for 6, three week treatment cycles as shown in Table 3. Bortezomib for injection is administered first followed by rituximab. Bortezomib for injection is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period on Days 12 to 21. For patients with a response first documented at Cycle 6, two additional VcR-CAP cycles are recommended. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of Bortezomib for injection.

    Table: 3 Dosage Regime for Patients with Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma Twice Weekly Bortezomib for injection (6, Three Week Cycles)*
    * Dosing may continue for two more cycles (for a total of eight cycles) if response is first seen at Cycle 6.
    Week123
    Bortezomib for Injection (1.3 mg/m 2) Day 1----Day 4--Day 8Day 11rest period
    Rituximab (375 mg/m 2)
    Cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m 2)
    Doxorubicin (50 mg/m 2)     		Day 1--------rest period
    Prednisone (100 mg/m 2) Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5----rest period

    2.5 Dose Modification Guidelines for Bortezomib for injection When Given in Combination with Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone

    Prior to the first day of each cycle (other than Cycle 1):

    • Platelet count should be at least 100 x 10 9/L and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1.5 x 10 9/L 
    • Hemoglobin should be at least 8 g/dL (at least 4.96 mmol/L)
    • Nonhematologic toxicity should have recovered to Grade 1 or baseline

    Interrupt Bortezomib for injection treatment at the onset of any Grade 3 hematologic or nonhematological toxicities, excluding neuropathy [ see Table 5, Warnings and Precautions (5)]. For dose adjustments, see Table 4 below.

    Table 4: Dose Modifications on Days 4, 8, and 11 During Cycles of Combination Bortezomib for Injection, Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone Therapy
    ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
    Hematological Toxicity
    Grade 3 or higher neutropenia, or a platelet count not at or above 25 x 10 9/L Withhold Bortezomib for injection therapy for up to 2 weeks until patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 x 10 9/L and a platelet count at or above 25 x 10 9/L.
    If, after Bortezomib for Injection has been withheld, the toxicity does not resolve, discontinue Bortezomib for injection.

    If toxicity resolves such that the patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 x 10 9/L and a platelet count at or above 25 x 10 9/L, Bortezomib for injection dose should be reduced by 1 dose level (from 1.3 mg/m 2 to 1 mg/m 2, or from 1 mg/m 2 to 0.7 mg/m 2)
    Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold Bortezomib for Injection therapy until symptoms of the toxicity have resolved to Grade 2 or better. Then, Bortezomib for injection may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m 2, or from 1 mg/m 2 to 0.7 mg/m 2).

    For Bortezomib Injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify Bortezomib for injection as outlined in Table 5.

    For information concerning rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

    2.6 Dosage and Dose Modifications for Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma

    Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m 2/dose) is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21). For extended therapy of more than eight cycles, Bortezomib for injection may be administered on the standard schedule or, for relapsed multiple myeloma, on a maintenance schedule of once weekly for four weeks (Days 1, 8, 15, and 22) followed by a 13 day rest period (Days 23 to 35) [ see Clinical Studies (14)]. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of Bortezomib for injection.

    Patients with multiple myeloma who have previously responded to treatment with Bortezomib for injection (either alone or in combination) and who have relapsed at least six months after their prior Bortezomib for injection therapy may be started on Bortezomib for injection at the last tolerated dose. Retreated patients are administered Bortezomib for injection twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) every three weeks for a maximum of eight cycles. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of Bortezomib for injection. Bortezomib for injection may be administered either as a single agent or in combination with dexamethasone [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    Bortezomib for injection therapy should be withheld at the onset of any Grade 3 nonhematological or Grade 4 hematological toxicities excluding neuropathy as discussed below [ see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. Once the symptoms of the toxicity have resolved, Bortezomib for injection therapy may be reinitiated at a 25% reduced dose (1.3 mg/m 2/dose reduced to 1 mg/m 2/dose; 1 mg/m 2/dose reduced to 0.7 mg/m 2/dose). 

    For dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy see section 2.7.

    2.7 Dose Modifications for Peripheral Neuropathy

    Starting Bortezomib for injection subcutaneously may be considered for patients with pre-existing or at high risk of peripheral neuropathy. Patients with pre-existing severe neuropathy should be treated with Bortezomib for injection only after careful risk-benefit assessment.

    Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy during Bortezomib for injection therapy may require a decrease in the dose and/or a less dose-intense schedule.

    For dose or schedule modification guidelines for patients who experience Bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy see Table 5.

    Table 5: Recommended Dose Modification for Bortezomib for injection-Related Neuropathic Pain and/or Peripheral Sensory or Motor Neuropathy
    Severity of Peripheral Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms *Modification of Dose and Regimen
    Grade 1 (asymptomatic; loss of deep tendon reflexes or paresthesia) without pain or loss of functionNo action
    Grade 1 with pain or Grade 2 (moderate symptoms; limiting instrumental Activities of Daily Living (ADL)**)Reduce Bortezomib for injection to 1 mg/m 2
    Grade 2 with pain or Grade 3 (severe symptoms; limiting self care ADL ***)Withhold Bortezomib for injection therapy until toxicity resolves. When toxicity resolves reinitiate with a reduced dose of Bortezomib for injection at 0.7 mg/m 2 once per week.
    Grade 4 (life-threatening consequences; urgent intervention indicated)Discontinue Bortezomib for injection

    *Grading based on NCI Common Terminology Criteria CTCAE v4.0 
    ** Instrumental ADL: refers to preparing meals, shopping for groceries or clothes, using telephone, managing money, etc. 
    *** Self care ADL: refers to bathing, dressing and undressing, feeding self, using the toilet, taking medications, and not bedridden

    2.8 Dosage in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

    Do not adjust the starting dose for patients with mild hepatic impairment.

    Start patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment started on Bortezomib for injection dose at a reduced dose of 0.7 mg/m 2 per injection during the first cycle, and consider subsequent dose escalation to 1 mg/m 2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m 2  based on patient tolerance (see Table 6) [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

    Table 6: Recommended Starting Dose Modification for Bortezomib for injection in Patients with Hepatic Impairment
    Bilirubin LevelSGOT (AST) LevelsModification of Starting Dose
    Abbreviations: SGOT = serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase;
    AST = aspartate aminotransferase; ULN = upper limit of the normal range.
    MildLess than or equal to 1x ULNMore than ULNNone
    More than 1x to 1.5x ULNAnyNone
    ModerateMore than 1.5x to 3x ULNAnyReduce Bortezomib for injection to 0.7 mg/m 2 in the first cycle. Consider dose escalation to 1 mg/m 2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m 2 in subsequent cycles based on patient tolerability.
    SevereMore than 3x ULNAny

    2.9 Administration Precautions

    The drug quantity contained in one vial (3.5 mg) may exceed the usual dose required. Caution should be used in calculating the dose to prevent overdose [ see Dosage and Administration (2.10)] .

    When administered subcutaneously, sites for each injection (thigh or abdomen) should be rotated. New injections should be given at least one inch from an old site and never into areas where the site is tender, bruised, erythematous, or indurated.

    If local injection site reactions occur following Bortezomib for injection administration subcutaneously, a less concentrated Bortezomib for injection solution (1 mg/mL instead of 2.5 mg/mL) may be administered subcutaneously [ see Dosage and Administration (2.10)]. Alternatively, consider use of the intravenous route of administration [ see  Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

    Bortezomib for injection is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedure. 1

    2.10 Reconstitution/Preparation for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration

    Use proper aseptic technique. Reconstitute only with 0.9% sodium chloride. The reconstituted product should be a clear and colorless solution.

    Different volumes of 0.9% sodium chloride are used to reconstitute the product for the different routes of administration. The reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for subcutaneous administration (2.5 mg/mL) is greater than the reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for intravenous administration (1 mg/mL).  Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered [ see  Dosage and Administration (2.9)].

    For each 3.5 mg single-dose vial of bortezomib reconstitute with the following volume of 0.9% sodium chloride based on route of administration ( Table 7):

    Table 7: Reconstitution Volumes and Final Concentration for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration
    Route of AdministrationBortezomib
    (mg/vial)     		Diluent
    (0.9% Sodium Chloride)     		Final Bortezomib concentration (mg/mL)
    Intravenous3.5 mg3.5 mL1 mg/mL
    Subcutaneous3.5 mg1.4 mL2.5 mg/mL

    Dose must be individualized to prevent overdosage. After determining patient body surface area (BSA) in square meters, use the following equations to calculate the total volume (mL) of reconstituted Bortezomib for injection to be administered:

    • Intravenous Administration [1 mg/mL concentration]

    Bortezomib for injection dose (mg/m 2) x patient BSA (m 2) = Total Bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
                                        1 mg/mL

    • Subcutaneous Administration [2.5 mg/mL concentration]

    Bortezomib for injection dose (mg/m 2)x patient BSA (m 2) = Total Bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
                                     2.25 mg/mL

    Stickers that indicate the route of administration are provided with each Bortezomib for injection vial. These stickers should be placed directly on the syringe of Bortezomib for injection once Bortezomib for injection is prepared to help alert practitioners of the correct route of administration for Bortezomib for injection.

    Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. If any discoloration or particulate matter is observed, the reconstituted product should not be used.

    Stability: 
    Unopened vials of Bortezomib for injection are stable until the date indicated on the package when stored in the original package protected from light.

    Bortezomib for injection contains no antimicrobial preservative. Administer reconstituted Bortezomib for injection within eight hours of preparation. When reconstituted as directed, Bortezomib for injection may be stored at 25°C (77°F). The reconstituted material may be stored in the original vial and/or the syringe prior to administration. The product may be stored for up to eight hours in a syringe; however, total storage time for the reconstituted material must not exceed eight hours when exposed to normal indoor lighting.

  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    For injection: Each single-dose vial of Bortezomib for injection contains 3.5 mg of bortezomib as a sterile lyophilized white to off-white powder for reconstitution and withdrawal of the appropriate individual patient dose [ see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Bortezomib for injection is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity (not including local reactions) to bortezomib, boron, or mannitol. Reactions have included anaphylactic reactions [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

    Bortezomib for injection is contraindicated for intrathecal administration. Fatal events have occurred with intrathecal administration of Bortezomib for injection.

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Peripheral Neuropathy

    Bortezomib for injection treatment causes a peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory; however, cases of severe sensory and motor peripheral neuropathy have been reported. Patients with pre-existing symptoms (numbness, pain or a burning feeling in the feet or hands) and/or signs of peripheral neuropathy may experience worsening peripheral neuropathy (including ≥ Grade 3) during treatment with Bortezomib for injection. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of neuropathy, such as a burning sensation, hyperesthesia, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, neuropathic pain or weakness. In the Phase 3 relapsed multiple myeloma trial comparing Bortezomib for injection subcutaneous vs intravenous the incidence of Grade ≥ 2 peripheral neuropathy was 24% for subcutaneous and 39% for intravenous. Grade ≥ 3 peripheral neuropathy occurred in 6% of patients in the subcutaneous treatment group, compared with 15% in the intravenous treatment group [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Starting Bortezomib for injection subcutaneously may be considered for patients with preexisting or at high risk of peripheral neuropathy.

    Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy during Bortezomib for injection therapy may require a decrease in the dose and/or a less dose-intense schedule [ see Dosage and Administration (2.7)]. In the Bortezomib for injection vs dexamethasone Phase 3 relapsed multiple myeloma study, improvement in or resolution of peripheral neuropathy was reported in 48% of patients with ≥ Grade 2 peripheral neuropathy following dose adjustment or interruption. Improvement in or resolution of peripheral neuropathy was reported in 73% of patients who discontinued due to Grade 2 neuropathy or who had ≥ Grade 3 peripheral neuropathy in the Phase 2 multiple myeloma studies. The long-term outcome of peripheral neuropathy has not been studied in mantle cell lymphoma.

    5.2 Hypotension

    The incidence of hypotension (postural, orthostatic, and hypotension NOS) was 8% [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . These events are observed throughout therapy. Patients with a history of syncope, patients receiving medications known to be associated with hypotension, and patients who are dehydrated may be at increased risk of hypotension. Management of orthostatic/postural hypotension may include adjustment of antihypertensive medications, hydration, and administration of mineralocorticoids and/or sympathomimetics.

    5.3 Cardiac Toxicity

    Acute development or exacerbation of congestive heart failure and new onset of decreased left ventricular ejection fraction have occurred during Bortezomib for injection therapy, including reports in patients with no risk factors for decreased left ventricular ejection fraction [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] . Patients with risk factors for, or existing heart disease should be frequently monitored. In the relapsed multiple myeloma study of Bortezomib for injection vs dexamethasone, the incidence of any treatment-related cardiac disorder was 8% and 5% in the Bortezomib for injection and dexamethasone groups, respectively. The incidence of adverse reactions suggestive of heart failure (acute pulmonary edema, pulmonary edema, cardiac failure, congestive cardiac failure, cardiogenic shock) was ≤ 1% for each individual reaction in the Bortezomib for injection group. In the dexamethasone group the incidence was ≤ 1% for cardiac failure and congestive cardiac failure; there were no reported reactions of acute pulmonary edema, pulmonary edema, or cardiogenic shock. There have been isolated cases of QT-interval prolongation in clinical studies; causality has not been established.

    5.4 Pulmonary Toxicity

    Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and acute diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease of unknown etiology such as pneumonitis, interstitial pneumonia, lung infiltration have occurred in patients receiving Bortezomib for injection . Some of these events have been fatal.

    In a clinical trial, the first two patients given high-dose cytarabine (2 g/m 2 per day) by continuous infusion with daunorubicin and Bortezomib for injection for relapsed acute myelogenous leukemia died of ARDS early in the course of therapy.

    There have been reports of pulmonary hypertension associated with Bortezomib for injection administration in the absence of left heart failure or significant pulmonary disease.

    In the event of new or worsening cardiopulmonary symptoms, consider interrupting Bortezomib for injection until a prompt and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is conducted.

    5.5 Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)

    Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES; formerly termed Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS)) has occurred in patients receiving Bortezomib for injection. PRES is a rare, reversible, neurological disorder which can present with seizure, hypertension, headache, lethargy, confusion, blindness, and other visual and neurological disturbances. Brain imaging, preferably MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), is used to confirm the diagnosis. In patients developing PRES, discontinue Bortezomib for injection. The safety of reinitiating Bortezomib for injection therapy in patients previously experiencing PRES is not known.

    5.6 Gastrointestinal Toxicity

    Bortezomib for injection treatment can cause nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] sometimes requiring use of antiemetic and antidiarrheal medications. Ileus can occur. Fluid and electrolyte replacement should be administered to prevent dehydration. Interrupt Bortezomib for injection for severe symptoms.

    5.7 Thrombocytopenia/Neutropenia

    Bortezomib for injection is associated with thrombocytopenia and neutropenia that follow a cyclical pattern with nadirs occurring following the last dose of each cycle and typically recovering prior to initiation of the subsequent cycle. The cyclical pattern of platelet and neutrophil decreases and recovery remain consistent in the studies of multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma, with no evidence of cumulative thrombocytopenia or neutropenia in the treatment regimens studied. 

    Monitor complete blood counts (CBC) frequently during treatment with Bortezomib for injection. Measure platelet counts prior to each dose of Bortezomib for injection. Adjust dose/schedule for thrombocytopenia [ see  Dosage and Administration (2.6)]. Gastrointestinal and intracerebral hemorrhage has occurred during thrombocytopenia in association with Bortezomib for injection. Support with transfusions and supportive care, according to published guidelines. 

    In the single-agent, relapsed multiple myeloma study of Bortezomib for injection vs dexamethasone, the mean platelet count nadir measured was approximately 40% of baseline. The severity of thrombocytopenia related to pretreatment platelet count is shown in Table 8. The incidence of bleeding (≥ Grade 3) was 2% on the Bortezomib for injection arm and was < 1% in the dexamethasone arm.

    Table 8: Severity of Thrombocytopenia Related to Pretreatment Platelet Count in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone
    Pretreatment
    Platelet Count*     		Number of Patients
    (N=331) **    		Number (%) of Patients
    with Platelet Count
    < 10,000/µL     		Number (%) of Patients
    with Platelet Count
    10,000 to 25,000/µL
    ≥ 75,000/µL3098 (3%)36 (12%)

    ≥ 50,000/µL to

     < 75,000/µL

    		142 (14%)11 (79%)

    ≥ 10,000/µL to

     < 50,000/µL

    		71 (14%)5 (71%)

    * A baseline platelet count of 50,000/μL was required for study eligibility
    ** Data were missing at baseline for one patient

    In the combination study of Bortezomib for injection with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (VcR-CAP) in previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma patients, the incidence of thrombocytopenia (≥Grade 4) was 32% vs 1% for the rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP) arm as shown in Table 12. The incidence of bleeding events (≥Grade 3) was 1.7% in the VcR-CAP arm (four patients) and was 1.2% in the R-CHOP arm (three patients). 

    Platelet transfusions were given to 23% of the patients in the VcR-CAP arm and 3% of the patients in the R-CHOP arm. The incidence of neutropenia (≥Grade 4) was 70% in the VcR-CAP arm and was 52% in the R-CHOP arm. 

    The incidence of febrile neutropenia (≥Grade 4) was 5% in the VcR-CAP arm and was 6% in the R-CHOP arm. Myeloid growth factor support was provided at a rate of 78% in the VcR-CAP arm and 61% in the R-CHOP arm.

    5.8 Tumor Lysis Syndrome

    Tumor lysis syndrome has been reported with Bortezomib for injection therapy. Patients at risk of tumor lysis syndrome are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. Monitor patients closely and take appropriate precautions.

    5.9 Hepatic Toxicity

    Cases of acute liver failure have been reported in patients receiving multiple concomitant medications and with serious underlying medical conditions. Other reported hepatic reactions include hepatitis, increases in liver enzymes, and hyperbilirubinemia. Interrupt Bortezomib for injection therapy to assess reversibility. There is limited rechallenge information in these patients.

    5.10 Thrombotic Microangiopathy

    Cases, sometimes fatal, of thrombotic microangiopathy, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS), have been reported in the postmarketing setting in patients who received Bortezomib for injection. Monitor for signs and symptoms of TTP/HUS. If the diagnosis is suspected, stop Bortezomib for injection and evaluate. If the diagnosis of TTP/HUS is excluded, consider restarting Bortezomib for injection. The safety of reinitiating Bortezomib for injection therapy in patients previously experiencing TTP/HUS is not known.

    5.11Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

    Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animals, Bortezomib for injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Bortezomib administered to rabbits during organogenesis at a dose approximately 0.5 times the clinical dose of 1.3 mg/m 2 based on body surface area caused postimplantation loss and a decreased number of live fetuses [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

    Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for seven months following treatment. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for four months following treatment. If Bortezomib for injection is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant during Bortezomib for injection treatment, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to the fetus [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    The following clinically significant adverse reactions are also discussed in other sections of the labeling:

    6.1Clinical Trials Experience

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

    Summary of Clinical Trial in Patients with Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma

    Table 9 describes safety data from 340 patients with previously untreated multiple myeloma who received Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m 2) administered intravenously in combination with melphalan (9 mg/m 2) and prednisone (60 mg/m 2) in a prospective randomized study.

    The safety profile of Bortezomib for injection in combination with melphalan/prednisone is consistent with the known safety profiles of both Bortezomib for injection and melphalan/prednisone.

    Table 9: Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions (≥ 10% in the Bortezomib for injection, Melphalan and Prednisone Arm) with Grades 3 and ≥ 4 Intensity in the Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma Study
    Bortezomib for injection, Melphalan and PrednisoneMelphalan and Prednisone
    (n=340)(n=337)
    Body SystemTotalToxicity Grade, n (%)TotalToxicity Grade, n (%)
     Adverse Reactionn (%)3≥ 4n (%)3≥ 4
    Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
      Thrombocytopenia164 (48)60 (18)57 (17)140 (42)48 (14)39 (12)
      Neutropenia160 (47)101 (30)33 (10)143 (42)77 (23)42 (12)
      Anemia109 (32)41 (12)4 (1)156 (46)61 (18)18 (5)
      Leukopenia108 (32)64 (19)8 (2)93 (28)53 (16)11 (3)
      Lymphopenia78 (23)46 (14)17 (5)51 (15)26 (8)7 (2)
    Gastrointestinal Disorders
      Nausea134 (39)10 (3)070 (21)1 (< 1)0
      Diarrhea119 (35)19 (6)2 (1)20 (6)1 (< 1)0
      Vomiting87 (26)13 (4)041 (12)2 (1)0
      Constipation77 (23)2 (1)014 (4)00
      Abdominal pain upper34 (10)1 (< 1)020 (6)00
    Nervous System Disorders
      Peripheral neuropathy a156 (46)42 (12)2 (1)4 (1)00
      Neuralgia117 (34)27 (8)2 (1)1 (< 1)00
      Paresthesia42 (12)6 (2)04 (1)00
    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
      Fatigue85 (25)19 (6)2 (1)48 (14)4 (1)0
      Asthenia54 (16)18 (5)023 (7)3 (1)0
      Pyrexia53 (16)4 (1)019 (6)1 (< 1)1 (< 1)
    Infections and Infestations
      Herpes Zoster39 (11)11 (3)09 (3)4 (1)0
    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
      Anorexia64 (19)6 (2)019 (6)00
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
      Rash38 (11)2 (1)07 (2)00
    Psychiatric Disorders
      Insomnia35 (10)1 (< 1)021 (6)00

    aRepresents High Level Term Peripheral Neuropathies NEC

    Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Randomized Study of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone

    The safety data described below and in Table 10 reflect exposure to either Bortezomib for injection (n=331) or dexamethasone (n=332) in a study of patients with relapsed multiple myeloma. Bortezomib for injection was administered intravenously at doses of 1.3 mg/m 2 twice weekly for two out of three weeks (21 day cycle). After eight 21 day cycles patients continued therapy for three 35 day cycles on a weekly schedule. Duration of treatment was up to 11 cycles (nine months) with a median duration of six cycles (4.1 months). For inclusion in the trial, patients must have had measurable disease and one to three prior therapies. There was no upper age limit for entry. Creatinine clearance could be as low as 20 mL/min and bilirubin levels as high as 1.5 times the upper limit of normal. The overall frequency of adverse reactions was similar in men and women, and in patients < 65 and ≥ 65 years of age. Most patients were Caucasian [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    Among the 331 Bortezomib for injection-treated patients, the most commonly reported (>20%) adverse reactions overall were nausea (52%), diarrhea (52%), fatigue (39%), peripheral neuropathies (35%), thrombocytopenia (33%), constipation (30%), vomiting (29%), and anorexia (21%). The most commonly reported (>20%) adverse reaction reported among the 332 patients in the dexamethasone group was fatigue (25%). Eight percent (8%) of patients in the Bortezomib for injection-treated arm experienced a Grade 4 adverse reaction; the most common reactions were thrombocytopenia (4%) and neutropenia (2%). Nine percent (9%) of dexamethasone-treated patients experienced a Grade 4 adverse reaction. All individual dexamethasone-related Grade 4 adverse reactions were less than 1%.

    Serious Adverse Reactions and Adverse Reactions Leading to Treatment Discontinuation in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone

    Serious adverse reactions are defined as any reaction that results in death, is life-threatening, requires hospitalization or prolongs a current hospitalization, results in a significant disability, or is deemed to be an important medical event. A total of 80 (24%) patients from the Bortezomib for injection treatment arm experienced a serious adverse reaction during the study, as did 83 (25%) dexamethasone-treated patients. The most commonly reported serious adverse reactions in the Bortezomib for injection treatment arm were diarrhea (3%), dehydration, herpes zoster, pyrexia, nausea, vomiting, dyspnea, and thrombocytopenia (2% each). In the dexamethasone treatment group, the most commonly reported serious adverse reactions were pneumonia (4%), hyperglycemia (3%), pyrexia, and psychotic disorder (2% each).

    A total of 145 patients, including 84 (25%) of 331 patients in the Bortezomib for injection treatment group and 61 (18%) of 332 patients in the dexamethasone treatment group were discontinued from treatment due to adverse reactions. Among the 331 Bortezomib for injection treated patients, the most commonly reported adverse reaction leading to discontinuation was peripheral neuropathy (8%). Among the 332 patients in the dexamethasone group, the most commonly reported adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation were psychotic disorder and hyperglycemia (2% each).

    Four deaths were considered to be Bortezomib for injection-related in this relapsed multiple myeloma study: one case each of cardiogenic shock, respiratory insufficiency, congestive heart failure and cardiac arrest. Four deaths were considered dexamethasone-related: two cases of sepsis, one case of bacterial meningitis, and one case of sudden death at home.

    Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone

    The most common adverse reactions from the relapsed multiple myeloma study are shown in Table 10. All adverse reactions with incidence ≥10% in the Bortezomib for injection arm are included.

    Table 10: Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions (≥ 10% in Bortezomib for injection Arm), with Grades 3 and 4 Intensity in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone (N=663)
    Bortezomib for injection
    (N=331)     		Dexamethasone
    (N=332)
    Adverse ReactionsAllGrade 3Grade 4AllGrade 3Grade 4
    Any Adverse Reactions324 (98)193 (58)28 (8)297 (89)110 (33)29 (9)
    Nausea172 (52)8 (2)031 (9)00
    Diarrhea NOS171 (52)22 (7)036 (11)2 (< 1)0
    Fatigue130 (39)15 (5)082 (25)8 (2)0
    Peripheral neuropathies a115 (35)23 (7)2 (< 1)14 (4)01 (< 1)
    Thrombocytopenia109 (33)80 (24)12 (4)11 (3)5 (2)1 (< 1)
    Constipation99 (30)6 (2)027 (8)1 (< 1)0
    Vomiting NOS96 (29)8 (2)010 (3)1 (< 1)0
    Anorexia68 (21)8 (2)08 (2)1 (< 1)0
    Pyrexia66 (20)2 (< 1)021 (6)3 (< 1)1 (< 1)
    Paresthesia64 (19)5 (2)024 (7)00
    Anemia NOS63 (19)20 (6)1 (< 1)21 (6)8 (2)0
    Headache NOS62 (19)3 (< 1)023 (7)1 (< 1)0
    Neutropenia58 (18)37 (11)8 (2)1 (< 1)1 (< 1)0
    Rash NOS43 (13)3 (< 1)07 (2)00
    Appetite decreased NOS36 (11)0012 (4)00
    Dyspnea NOS35 (11)11 (3)1 (< 1)37 (11)7 (2)1 (< 1)
    Abdominal pain NOS35 (11)5 (2)07 (2)00
    Weakness34 (10)10 (3)028 (8)8 (2)0

    a. Represents High Level Term Peripheral Neuropathies NEC

    Safety Experience from the Phase 2 Open-Label Extension Study in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

    In the Phase 2 extension study of 63 patients, no new cumulative or new long-term toxicities were observed with prolonged Bortezomib for injection treatment. These patients were treated for a total of 5.3 to 23 months, including time on Bortezomib for injection in the prior Bortezomib for injection study [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    Safety Experience from the Phase 3 Open-Label Study of Bortezomib for injection Subcutaneous vs Intravenous in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

    The safety and efficacy of Bortezomib for injection administered subcutaneously were evaluated in one Phase 3 study at the recommended dose of 1.3 mg/m 2. This was a randomized, comparative study of Bortezomib for injection subcutaneous vs intravenous in 222 patients with relapsed multiple myeloma. The safety data described below and in Table 11 reflect exposure to either Bortezomib for injection subcutaneous (N=147) or Bortezomib for injection intravenous (N=74) [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    Table 11: Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions (≥ 10%), with Grade 3 and ≥ 4 Intensity in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study (N=221) of Bortezomib for injection Subcutaneous vs Intravenous
    SubcutaneousIntravenous
    (N=147)(N=74)
    Body SystemTotalToxicity Grade, n (%)TotalToxicity Grade, n (%)
      Adverse Reactionn (%)3≥ 4n (%)3≥ 4

    Blood and L ymphatic System Disorders  

      Anemia28 (19)8 (5)017 (23)3 (4)0
      Leukopenia26 (18)8 (5)015 (20)4 (5)1 (1)
      Neutropenia34 (23)15 (10)4 (3)20 (27)10 (14)3 (4)
      Thrombocytopenia44 (30)7 (5)5 (3)25 (34)7 (9)5 (7)
    Gastrointestinal Disorders
      Diarrhea28 (19)1 (1)021 (28)3 (4)0
      Nausea24 (16)0010 (14)00
      Vomiting13 (9)3 (2)08 (11)00
    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
      Asthenia10 (7)1 (1)012 (16)4 (5)0
      Fatigue11 (7)3 (2)011 (15)3 (4)0
      Pyrexia18 (12)006 (8)00
    Nervous System Disorders
      Neuralgia34 (23)5 (3)017 (23)7 (9)0
      Peripheral neuropathies a55 (37)8 (5)1 (1)37 (50)10 (14)1 (1)

    Note: Safety population: 147 patients in the subcutaneous treatment group and 74 patients in the intravenous treatment group who received at least one dose of study medication
    a Represents High Level Term Peripheral Neuropathies NEC

    In general, safety data were similar for the subcutaneous and intravenous treatment groups. Differences were observed in the rates of some Grade ≥3 adverse reactions. Differences of ≥5% were reported in neuralgia (3% subcutaneous vs 9% intravenous), peripheral neuropathies (6% subcutaneous vs 15% intravenous), neutropenia (13% subcutaneous vs 18% intravenous), and thrombocytopenia (8% subcutaneous vs 16% intravenous).

    A local reaction was reported in 6% of patients in the subcutaneous group, mostly redness. Only two (1%) patients were reported as having severe reactions, one case of pruritus and 1 case of redness. Local reactions led to reduction in injection concentration in one patient and drug discontinuation in one patient. Local reactions resolved in a median of six days.

    Dose reductions occurred due to adverse reactions in 31% of patients in the subcutaneous treatment group compared with 43% of the intravenously-treated patients. The most common adverse reactions leading to a dose reduction included peripheral sensory neuropathy (17% in the subcutaneous treatment group compared with 31% in the intravenous treatment group); and neuralgia (11% in the subcutaneous treatment group compared with 19% in the intravenous treatment group).

    Serious Adverse Reactions and Adverse Reactions Leading to Treatment Discontinuation in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection Subcutaneous vs Intravenous

    The incidence of serious adverse reactions was similar for the subcutaneous treatment group (20%) and the intravenous treatment group (19%). The most commonly reported serious adverse reactions in the subcutaneous treatment arm were pneumonia and pyrexia (2% each). In the intravenous treatment group, the most commonly reported serious adverse reactions were pneumonia, diarrhea, and peripheral sensory neuropathy (3% each).

    In the subcutaneous treatment group, 27 patients (18%) discontinued study treatment due to an adverse reaction compared with 17 patients (23%) in the intravenous treatment group . Among the 147 subcutaneously-treated patients, the most commonly reported adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were peripheral sensory neuropathy (5%) and neuralgia (5%). Among the 74 patients in the intravenous treatment group, the most commonly reported adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation were peripheral sensory neuropathy (9%) and neuralgia (9%).

    Two patients (1%) in the subcutaneous treatment group and one (1%) patient in the intravenous treatment group died due to an adverse reaction during treatment. In the subcutaneous group the causes of death were one case of pneumonia and one case of sudden death. In the intravenous group the cause of death was coronary artery insufficiency.

    Safety Experience from the Clinical Trial in Patients with Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma 
    Table 12 describes safety data from 240 patients with previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma who received Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m 2) administered intravenously in combination with rituximab (375 mg/m 2), cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m 2), doxorubicin (50 mg/m 2), and prednisone (100 mg/m2) (VcR-CAP) in a prospective randomized study. Infections were reported for 31% of patients in the VcR-CAP arm and 23% of the patients in the comparator (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone [R-CHOP]) arm, including the predominant preferred term of pneumonia (VcR-CAP 8% vs R-CHOP 5%).

    Table 12: Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions (≥5%) with Grades 3 and ≥4 Intensity in the Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma Study
    VcR-CAP
    (n=240)     		R-CHOP
    (n=242)
    Body System
    Adverse Reactions     		All
    n (%)     		Toxicity Grade 3
    n (%)     		Toxicity Grade ≥4
    n (%)     		All
    n (%)     		Toxicity Grade 3
    n (%)     		Toxicity Grade ≥4
    n (%)
    Key: R-CHOP = rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone; VcR-CAP = VELCADE, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone.
    a. Represents High Level Term Peripheral Neuropathies NEC
    Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
      Neutropenia209 (87)32 (13)168 (70)172 (71)31 (13)125 (52)
      Leukopenia116 (48)34 (14)69 (29)87 (36)39 (16)27 (11)
      Anemia106 (44)27 (11)4 (2)71 (29)23 (10)4 (2)
      Thrombocytopenia172 (17)59 (25)76 (32)42 (17)9 (4)3 (1)
      Febrile neutropenia41 (17)24 (10)12 (5)33 (14)17 (7)15 (6)
      Lymphopenia68 (28)25 (10)36 (15)28 (12)15 (6)2 (1)
    Nervous System Disorders
      Peripheral neuropathy a71 (30)17 (7)1 (<1)65 (27)10 (4)0
      Hypoesthesia14 (6)3 (1)013 (5)00
      Paresthesia14 (6)2 (1)011 (5)00
      Neuralgia25 (10)9 (4)01 (<1)00
    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
      Fatigue43 (18)11 (5)1 (<1)38 (16)5 (2)0
      Pyrexia48 (20)7 (3)023 (10)5 (2)0
      Asthenia29 (12)4 (2)1 (<1)18 (7)1 (<1)0
      Edema peripheral16 (7)1 (<1)013 (5)00
    Gastrointestinal Disorders
      Nausea54 (23)1 (<1)028 (12)00
      Constipation42 (18)1 (<1)022 (9)2 (1)0
      Stomatitis20 (8)2 (1)019 (8)01 (<1)
      Diarrhea59 (25)11 (5)011 (5)3 (1)1 (<1)
      Vomiting24 (10)1 (<1)08 (3)00
      Abdominal distension13 (5)004 (2)00
    Infections and Infestations
      Pneumonia20 (8)8 (3)5 (2)11 (5)5 (2)3 (1)
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
      Alopecia31 (13)1 (<1)1 (<1)33 (14)4 (2)0
    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
      Hyperglycemia10 (4)1 (<1)017 (7)10 (4)0
      Decreased appetite36 (15)2 (1)015 (6)1 (<1)0
    Vascular Disorders
      Hypertension15 (6)1 (<1)03 (1)00
    Psychiatric disorders
      Insomnia16 (7)1 (<1)08 (3)00

    The incidence of herpes zoster reactivation was 4.6% in the VcR-CAP arm and 0.8% in the R-CHOP arm. Antiviral prophylaxis was mandated by protocol amendment.

    The incidences of Grade ≥3 bleeding events were similar between the two arms (four patients in the VcR-CAP arm and three patients in the R-CHOP arm). All of the Grade ≥3 bleeding events resolved without sequelae in the VcR-CAP arm. 

    Adverse reactions leading to discontinuation occurred in 8% of patients in VcR-CAP group and 6% of patients in R-CHOP group. In the VcR-CAP group, the most commonly reported adverse reaction leading to discontinuation was peripheral sensory neuropathy (1%; three patients). The most commonly reported adverse reaction leading to discontinuation in the R-CHOP group was febrile neutropenia (<1%; two patients).

    Integrated Summary of Safety (Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma) 
    Safety data from Phase 2 and 3 studies of single agent Bortezomib for injection 1.3 mg/m 2 /dose twice weekly for two weeks followed by a ten day rest period in 1163 patients with previously-treated multiple myeloma (N=1008) and previously-treated mantle cell lymphoma (N=155) were integrated and tabulated. This analysis does not include data from the Phase 3 open-label study of Bortezomib for injection subcutaneous vs intravenous in relapsed multiple myeloma. In the integrated studies, the safety profile of Bortezomib for injection was similar in patients with multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma.

    In the integrated analysis, the most commonly reported (>20%) adverse reactions were nausea (49%), diarrhea (46%), asthenic conditions including fatigue (41%) and weakness (11%), peripheral neuropathies (38%), thrombocytopenia (32%), vomiting (28%), constipation (25%), and pyrexia (21%). Eleven percent (11%) of patients experienced at least 1 episode of ≥Grade 4 toxicity, most commonly thrombocytopenia (4%) and neutropenia (2%).

    In the Phase 2 relapsed multiple myeloma clinical trials of Bortezomib for injection administered intravenously, local skin irritation was reported in 5% of patients, but extravasation of Bortezomib for injection was not associated with tissue damage.

    Serious Adverse Reactions and Adverse Reactions Leading to Treatment Discontinuation in the Integrated Summary of Safety

    A total of 26% of patients experienced a serious adverse reaction during the studies. The most commonly reported serious adverse reactions included diarrhea, vomiting and pyrexia (3% each), nausea, dehydration, and thrombocytopenia (2% each) and pneumonia, dyspnea, peripheral neuropathies, and herpes zoster (1% each).

    Adverse reactions leading to discontinuation occurred in 22% of patients. The reasons for discontinuation included peripheral neuropathy (8%), and fatigue, thrombocytopenia, and diarrhea (2% each).

    In total, 2% of the patients died and the cause of death was considered by the investigator to be possibly related to study drug: including reports of cardiac arrest, congestive heart failure, respiratory failure, renal failure, pneumonia and sepsis.

    Most Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions in the Integrated Summary of Safety

    The most common adverse reactions are shown in Table 13. All adverse reactions occurring at ≥10% are included. In the absence of a randomized comparator arm, it is often not possible to distinguish between adverse events that are drug-caused and those that reflect the patient's underlying disease. Please see the discussion of specific adverse reactions that follows.

    Table 13: Most Commonly Reported (≥ 10% Overall) Adverse Reactions in Integrated Analyses of Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma Studies Using the 1.3 mg/m 2 Dose (N=1163)
    All Patients
    (N=1163)     		Multiple Myeloma
    (N=1008)     		Mantle Cell Lymphoma
    (N=155)
    Adverse ReactionsAll≥ Grade 3All≥ Grade 3All≥ Grade 3
    Nausea567 (49)36 (3)511 (51)32 (3)56 (36)4 (3)
    Diarrhea NOS530 (46)83 (7)470 (47)72 (7)60 (39)11 (7)
    Fatigue477 (41)86 (7)396 (39)71 (7)81 (52)15 (10)
    Peripheral neuropathies a443 (38)129 (11)359 (36)110 (11)84 (54)19 (12)
    Thrombocytopenia369 (32)295 (25)344 (34)283 (28)25 (16)12 (8)
    Vomiting NOS321 (28)44 (4)286 (28)40 (4)35 (23)4 (3)
    Constipation296 (25)17 (1)244 (24)14 (1)52 (34)3 (2)
    Pyrexia249 (21)16 (1)233 (23)15 (1)16 (10)1 (< 1)
    Anorexia227 (20)19 (2)205 (20)16 (2)22 (14)3 (2)
    Anemia NOS209 (18)65 (6)190 (19)63 (6)19 (12)2 (1)
    Headache NOS175 (15)8 (< 1)160 (16)8 (< 1)15 (10)0
    Neutropenia172 (15)121 (10)164 (16)117 (12)8 (5)4 (3)
    Rash NOS156 (13)8 (< 1)120 (12)4 (< 1)36 (23)4 (3)
    Paresthesia147 (13)9 (< 1)136 (13)8 (< 1)11 (7)1 (< 1)
    Dizziness (excl vertigo)129 (11)13 (1)101 (10)9 (< 1)28 (18)4 (3)
    Weakness124 (11)31 (3)106 (11)28 (3)18 (12)3 (2)

    a. Represents High Level Term Peripheral Neuropathies NEC

    Description of Selected Adverse Reactions from the Integrated Phase 2 and 3 Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Phase 2 Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma Studies

    Gastrointestinal Toxicity

    A total of 75% of patients experienced at least one gastrointestinal disorder. The most common gastrointestinal disorders included nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and appetite decreased. Other gastrointestinal disorders included dyspepsia and dysgeusia. Grade 3 adverse reactions occurred in 14% of patients; ≥Grade 4 adverse reactions were ≤1%. Gastrointestinal adverse reactions were considered serious in 7% of patients. Four percent (4%) of patients discontinued due to a gastrointestinal adverse reaction. Nausea was reported more often in patients with multiple myeloma (51%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (36%).

    Thrombocytopenia

    Across the studies, Bortezomib for injection-associated thrombocytopenia was characterized by a decrease in platelet count during the dosing period (Days 1 to 11) and a return toward baseline during the ten day rest period during each treatment cycle. Overall, thrombocytopenia was reported in 32% of patients. Thrombocytopenia was Grade 3 in 22%, ≥Grade 4 in 4%, and serious in 2% of patients, and the reaction resulted in Bortezomib for injection discontinuation in 2% of patients [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Thrombocytopenia was reported more often in patients with multiple myeloma (34%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (16%). The incidence of ≥Grade 3 thrombocytopenia also was higher in patients with multiple myeloma (28%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (8%).

    Peripheral Neuropathy

    Overall, peripheral neuropathies occurred in 38% of patients. Peripheral neuropathy was Grade 3 for 11% of patients and ≥Grade 4 for <1% of patients. Eight percent (8%) of patients discontinued Bortezomib for injection due to peripheral neuropathy. The incidence of peripheral neuropathy was higher among patients with mantle cell lymphoma (54%) compared to patients with multiple myeloma (36%).

    In the Bortezomib for injection vs dexamethasone Phase 3 relapsed multiple myeloma study, among the 62 Bortezomib for injection-treated patients who experienced ≥Grade 2 peripheral neuropathy and had dose adjustments, 48% had improved or resolved with a median of 3.8 months from first onset.

    In the Phase 2 relapsed multiple myeloma studies, among the 30 patients who experienced grade 2 peripheral neuropathy resulting in discontinuation or who experienced ≥Grade 3 peripheral neuropathy, 73% reported improvement or resolution with a median time of 47 days to improvement of one Grade or more from the last dose of Bortezomib for injection.

    Hypotension

    The incidence of hypotension (postural, orthostatic and hypotension NOS) was 8% in patients treated with Bortezomib for injection . Hypotension was Grade 1 or 2 in the majority of patients and Grade 3 in 2% and ≥Grade 4 in <1%. Two percent (2%) of patients had hypotension reported as a serious adverse reaction, and 1% discontinued due to hypotension. The incidence of hypotension was similar in patients with multiple myeloma (8%) and those with mantle cell lymphoma (9%). In addition, <1% of patients experienced hypotension associated with a syncopal reaction.

    Neutropenia

    Neutrophil counts decreased during the Bortezomib for injection dosing period (Days 1 to 11) and returned toward baseline during the ten day rest period during each treatment cycle. Overall, neutropenia occurred in 15% of patients and was Grade 3 in 8% of patients and ≥Grade 4 in 2%. Neutropenia was reported as a serious adverse reaction in <1% of patients and <1% of patients discontinued due to neutropenia. The incidence of neutropenia was higher in patients with multiple myeloma (16%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (5%). The incidence of ≥Grade 3 neutropenia also was higher in patients with multiple myeloma (12%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (3%).

    Asthenic Conditions (Fatigue, Malaise, Weakness, Asthenia)

    Asthenic conditions were reported in 54% of patients. Fatigue was reported as Grade 3 in 7% and ≥Grade 4 in <1% of patients. Asthenia was reported as Grade 3 in 2% and ≥Grade 4 in < 1% of patients. Two percent (2%) of patients discontinued treatment due to fatigue and <1% due to weakness and asthenia. Asthenic conditions were reported in 53% of patients with multiple myeloma and 59% of patients with mantle cell lymphoma.

    Pyrexia

    Pyrexia (> 38ºC) was reported as an adverse reaction for 21% of patients. The reaction was Grade 3 in 1% and ≥Grade 4 in <1%. Pyrexia was reported as a serious adverse reaction in 3% of patients and led to Bortezomib for injection discontinuation in <1% of patients. The incidence of pyrexia was higher among patients with multiple myeloma (23%) compared to patients with mantle cell lymphoma (10%). The incidence of ≥Grade 3 pyrexia was 1% in patients with multiple myeloma and <1% in patients with mantle cell lymphoma.

    Herpes Virus Infection

    Consider using antiviral prophylaxis in subjects being treated with Bortezomib for injection. In the randomized studies in previously untreated and relapsed multiple myeloma, herpes zoster reactivation was more common in subjects treated with Bortezomib for injection (ranging between 6 to 11%) than in the control groups (3 to 4%). Herpes simplex was seen in 1 to 3% in subjects treated with Bortezomib for injection and 1-3% in the control groups. In the previously untreated multiple myeloma study, herpes zoster virus reactivation in the Bortezomib for injection , melphalan and prednisone arm was less common in subjects receiving prophylactic antiviral therapy (3%) than in subjects who did not receive prophylactic antiviral therapy (17%).

    Retreatment in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma 
    A single-arm trial was conducted in 130 patients with relapsed multiple myeloma to determine the efficacy and safety of retreatment with intravenous Bortezomib for injection. The safety profile of patients in this trial is consistent with the known safety profile of Bortezomib for injection-treated patients with relapsed multiple myeloma as demonstrated in Tables 10, 11, and 13; no cumulative toxicities were observed upon retreatment. The most common adverse drug reaction was thrombocytopenia which occurred in 52% of the patients. The incidence of ≥Grade 3 thrombocytopenia was 24%. Peripheral neuropathy occurred in 28% of patients, with the incidence of ≥Grade 3 peripheral neuropathy reported at 6%. The incidence of serious adverse reactions was 12.3%. The most commonly reported serious adverse reactions were thrombocytopenia (3.8%), diarrhea (2.3%), and herpes zoster and pneumonia (1.5% each).
     
    Adverse reactions leading to discontinuation occurred in 13% of patients. The reasons for discontinuation included peripheral neuropathy (5%) and diarrhea (3%). Two deaths considered to be Bortezomib for injection-related occurred within 30 days of the last Bortezomib for injection dose; one in a patient with cerebrovascular accident and one in a patient with sepsis.

    Additional Adverse Reactions from Clinical Studies

    The following clinically important serious adverse reactions that are not described above have been reported in clinical trials in patients treated with Bortezomib for injection administered as monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapeutics. These studies were conducted in patients with hematological malignancies and in solid tumors.

    Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Anemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, febrile neutropenia, lymphopenia, leukopenia

    Cardiac Disorders: Angina pectoris, atrial fibrillation aggravated, atrial flutter, bradycardia, sinus arrest, cardiac amyloidosis, complete atrioventricular block, myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, pericarditis, pericardial effusion, Torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia

    Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: Hearing impaired, vertigo

    Eye Disorders: Diplopia and blurred vision, conjunctival infection, irritation

    Gastrointestinal Disorders: Abdominal pain, ascites, dysphagia, fecal impaction, gastroenteritis, gastritis hemorrhagic, hematemesis, hemorrhagic duodenitis, ileus paralytic, large intestinal obstruction, paralytic intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, small intestinal obstruction, large intestinal perforation, stomatitis, melena, pancreatitis acute, oral mucosal petechiae, gastroesophageal reflux

    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: Chills, edema, edema peripheral, injection site erythema, neuralgia, injection site pain, irritation, malaise, phlebitis

    Hepatobiliary Disorders: Cholestasis, hepatic hemorrhage, hyperbilirubinemia, portal vein thrombosis, hepatitis, liver failure

    Immune System Disorders: Anaphylactic reaction, drug hypersensitivity, immune complex mediated hypersensitivity, angioedema, laryngeal edema

    Infections and Infestations: Aspergillosis, bacteremia, bronchitis, urinary tract infection, herpes viral infection, listeriosis, nasopharyngitis, pneumonia, respiratory tract infection, septic shock, toxoplasmosis, oral candidiasis, sinusitis, catheter-related infection

    Injury, Poisoning and Procedural Complications: Catheter-related complication, skeletal fracture, subdural hematoma

    Investigations: Weight decreased

    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: Dehydration, hypocalcemia, hyperuricemia, hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, hyponatremia, hypernatremia

    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: Arthralgia, back pain, bone pain, myalgia, pain in extremity

    Nervous System Disorders: Ataxia, coma, dizziness, dysarthria, dysesthesia, dysautonomia, encephalopathy, cranial palsy, grand mal convulsion, headache, hemorrhagic stroke, motor dysfunction, neuralgia, spinal cord compression, paralysis, postherpetic neuralgia, transient ischemic attack

    Psychiatric Disorders: Agitation, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mental status change, psychotic disorder, suicidal ideation

    Renal and Urinary Disorders: Calculus renal, bilateral hydronephrosis, bladder spasm, hematuria, hemorrhagic cystitis, urinary incontinence, urinary retention, renal failure (acute and chronic), glomerular nephritis proliferative

    Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, aspiration pneumonia, atelectasis, chronic obstructive airways disease exacerbated, cough, dysphagia, dyspnea, dyspnea exertional, epistaxis, hemoptysis, hypoxia, lung infiltration, pleural effusion, pneumonitis, respiratory distress, pulmonary hypertension

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Urticaria, face edema, rash (which may be pruritic), leukocytoclastic vasculitis, pruritus.

    Vascular Disorders: Cerebrovascular accident, cerebral hemorrhage, deep venous thrombosis, hypertension, peripheral embolism, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hypertension

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified from the worldwide postmarketing experience with Bortezomib for injection . 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.

    Cardiac Disorders: Cardiac tamponade 
    Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: Deafness bilateral 
    Eye Disorders: Optic neuropathy, blindness, chalazion/blepharitis 
    Gastrointestinal Disorders: Ischemic colitis 
    Infections and Infestations: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), ophthalmic herpes, herpes meningoencephalitis 
    Nervous System Disorders: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES, formerly RPLS), Guillain-Barré syndrome, demyelinating polyneuropathy
    Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: Acute diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease 
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis (Sweet’s syndrome)

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    7.1 Effects of Other Drugs on Bortezomib for injection

    Strong CYP3A4 Inducers Coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inducer decreases the exposure of bortezomib [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] which may decrease Bortezomib for injection efficacy. Avoid coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inducers. 

    Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors Coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increases the exposure of bortezomib [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] which may increase the risk of Bortezomib for injection toxicities. Monitor patients for signs of bortezomib toxicity and consider a bortezomib dose reduction if bortezomib must be given in combination with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

    7.2 Drugs without Clinically Significant Interactions with Bortezomib for injection

    No clinically significant drug interactions have been observed when Bortezomib for injection was coadministered with dexamethasone, omeprazole, or melphalan in combination with prednisone [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    8.1 Pregnancy

    Risk Summary

    Based on its mechanism of action [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] and findings in animals, Bortezomib for injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no  studies with the use of Bortezomib for injection in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risks. Bortezomib caused embryo-fetal lethality in rabbits at doses lower than the clinical dose ( see   Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus

    Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

    Data

    Animal Data

    Bortezomib was not teratogenic in nonclinical developmental toxicity studies in rats and rabbits at the highest dose tested (0.075 mg/kg; 0.5 mg/m 2 in the rat and 0.05 mg/kg; 0.6 mg/m 2 in the rabbit) when administered during organogenesis. These dosages are approximately 0.5 times the clinical dose of 1.3 mg/m 2 based on body surface area.

    Bortezomib caused embryo-fetal lethality in rabbits at doses lower than the clinical dose (approximately 0.5 times the clinical dose of 1.3 mg/m2 based on body surface area). Pregnant rabbits given bortezomib during organogenesis at a dose of 0.05 mg/kg (0.6 mg/m 2) experienced significant postimplantation loss and decreased number of live fetuses. Live fetuses from these litters also showed significant decreases in fetal weight.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary 
    There are no data on the presence of bortezomib or its metabolites in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed child, or the effects of the drug on milk production. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child from Bortezomib for injection is unknown, advise nursing women not to breastfeed during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for two months after treatment.

    8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

    Based on its mechanism of action and findings in animals, Bortezomib for injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. 
    Pregnancy Testing 
    Conduct pregnancy testing in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Bortezomib for injection treatment.

    Contraception 
    Females 
    Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for seven months after the last dose. 
    Males 
    Males with female partners of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for four months after the last dose. 

    Infertility 
    Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animals, Bortezomib for injection may have an effect on either male or female fertility [ see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients. 

    The activity and safety of Bortezomib for injection in combination with intensive reinduction chemotherapy was evaluated in pediatric and young adult patients with lymphoid malignancies (pre-B cell ALL 77%, 16% with T-cell ALL, and 7% T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (LL)), all of whom relapsed within 36 months of initial diagnosis in a single-arm multicenter, nonrandomized cooperative group trial. An effective reinduction multiagent chemotherapy regimen was administered in three blocks. Block 1 included vincristine, prednisone, doxorubicin and pegaspargase; Block 2 included cyclophosphamide, etoposide and methotrexate; Block 3 included high-dose cytosine arabinoside and asparaginase. Bortezomib for injection was administered at a dose of 1.3 mg/m2 as a bolus intravenous injection on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of Block 1 and Days 1, 4, and 8 of Block 2. There were 140 patients with ALL or LL enrolled and evaluated for safety. The median age was ten years (range: 1 to 26), 57% were male, 70% were white, 14% were black, 4% were Asian, 2% were American Indian/ Alaska Native, 1% were Pacific Islander.

    The activity was evaluated in a prespecified subset of the first 60 evaluable patients enrolled on the study with pre-B ALL ≤21 years and relapsed <36 months from diagnosis. The complete remission (CR) rate at day 36 was compared to that in a historical control set of patients who had received the identical backbone therapy without Bortezomib for injection There was no evidence that the addition of Bortezomib for injection had any impact on the CR rate. 

    No new safety concerns were observed when Bortezomib for injection was added to a chemotherapy backbone regimen as compared with a historical control group in which the backbone regimen was given without Bortezomib for injection. 

    The BSA-normalized clearance of bortezomib in pediatric patients was similar to that observed in adults.

    8.5 Geriatric Use

    Of the 669 patients enrolled in the relapsed multiple myeloma study, 245 (37%) were 65 years of age or older: 125 (38%) on the Bortezomib for injection arm and 120 (36%) on the dexamethasone arm. Median time to progression and median duration of response for patients ≥65 were longer on Bortezomib for injection compared to dexamethasone [5.5 mo vs 4.3 mo, and 8.0 mo vs 4.9 mo, respectively]. On the Bortezomib for injection arm, 40% (n=46) of evaluable patients aged ≥65 experienced response (CR + PR) vs 18% (n=21) on the dexamethasone arm. The incidence of Grade 3 and 4 events was 64%, 78% and 75% for Bortezomib for injection patients ≤50, 51-64 and ≥65 years old, respectively [ see  Adverse Reactions (6.1),  Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between patients ≥age 65 and younger patients receiving Bortezomib for injection; but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

    8.6 Renal Impairment

    No starting dosage adjustment of Bortezomib for injection is recommended for patients with renal impairment. In patients requiring dialysis, Bortezomib for injection should be administered after the dialysis procedure [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

    8.7 Hepatic Impairment

    No starting dosage adjustment of Bortezomib for injection is recommended for patients with mild hepatic impairment (total bilirubin ≤1x ULN and AST >ULN, or total bilirubin >1 to 1.5x ULN and any AST). The exposure of bortezomib is increased in patients with moderate (total bilirubin ≥1.5 to 3x ULN and any AST) and severe (total bilirubin >3x ULN and any AST) hepatic impairment. Reduce the starting dose in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment [ see Dosage and Administration (2.8), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

    8.8 Patients with Diabetes

    During clinical trials, hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia were reported in diabetic patients receiving oral hypoglycemics. Patients on oral antidiabetic agents receiving Bortezomib for injection treatment may require close monitoring of their blood glucose levels and adjustment of the dose of their antidiabetic medication.

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    There is no known specific antidote for Bortezomib for injection overdosage. In humans, fatal outcomes following the administration of more than twice the recommended therapeutic dose have been reported, which were associated with the acute onset of symptomatic hypotension (5.2) and thrombocytopenia (5.7). In the event of an overdosage, the patient's vital signs should be monitored and appropriate supportive care given.

    Studies in monkeys and dogs showed that intravenous bortezomib doses as low as two times the recommended clinical dose on a mg/m 2 basis were associated with increases in heart rate, decreases in contractility, hypotension, and death. In dog studies, a slight increase in the corrected QT interval was observed at doses resulting in death. In monkeys, doses of 3.0 mg/m 2 and greater (approximately twice the recommended clinical dose) resulted in hypotension starting at one hour postadministration, with progression to death in 12 to 14 hours following drug administration.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    Bortezomib for injection, 3.5 mg/vial a proteasome inhibitor, contains bortezomib which is an antineoplastic agent. Bortezomib is a modified dipeptidylboronic acid. The chemical name for bortezomib, the monomeric boronic acid, is [(1R)-3-methyl-1-[[(2S)-1-oxo-3-phenyl-2-[(pyrazinylcarbonyl) amino]propyl]amino]butyl] boronic acid.

    Bortezomib has the following chemical structure:

    Bortezomib Chemical Structure

    The molecular weight is 384.24. The molecular formula is C 19H 25BN 4O 4. The solubility of bortezomib, as the monomeric boronic acid, in water is 3.3 to 3.8 mg/mL in a pH range of 2 to 6.5.

    Bortezomib for injection, 3.5 mg/vial is available for intravenous injection or subcutaneous use. Each single-dose vial contains 3.5 mg of bortezomib as a sterile lyophilized powder. It also contains the inactive ingredient: 35 mg mannitol, USP. The product is provided as a mannitol boronic ester which, in reconstituted form, consists of the mannitol ester in equilibrium with its hydrolysis product, the monomeric boronic acid. The drug substance exists in its cyclic anhydride form as a trimeric boroxine.

  • 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    12.1 Mechanism of Action

    Bortezomib is a reversible inhibitor of the chymotrypsin-like activity of the 26S proteasome in mammalian cells. The 26S proteasome is a large protein complex that degrades ubiquitinated proteins. The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway plays an essential role in regulating the intracellular concentration of specific proteins, thereby maintaining homeostasis within cells. Inhibition of the 26S proteasome prevents this targeted proteolysis, which can affect multiple signaling cascades within the cell. This disruption of normal homeostatic mechanisms can lead to cell death. Experiments have demonstrated that bortezomib is cytotoxic to a variety of cancer cell types in vitro. Bortezomib causes a delay in tumor growth in vivo in nonclinical tumor models, including multiple myeloma.

    12.2 Pharmacodynamics

    Following twice weekly administration of 1 mg/m 2 and 1.3 mg/m 2 bortezomib doses, the maximum inhibition of 20S proteasome activity (relative to baseline) in whole blood was observed five minutes after drug administration. Comparable maximum inhibition of 20S proteasome activity was observed between 1 and 1.3 mg/m 2 doses. Maximal inhibition ranged from 70% to 84% and from 73% to 83% for the 1 mg/m 2 and 1.3 mg/m 2 dose regimens, respectively.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    Following intravenous administration of 1 mg/m 2 and 1.3 mg/m 2 doses, the mean maximum plasma concentrations of bortezomib (C max) after the first dose (Day 1) were 57 and 112 ng/mL, respectively. When administered twice weekly, the mean maximum observed plasma concentrations ranged from 67 to 106 ng/mL for the 1 mg/m 2 dose and 89 to 120 ng/mL for the 1.3 mg/m 2 dose.

    Following an intravenous bolus or subcutaneous injection of a 1.3 mg/m 2 dose to patients with multiple myeloma, the total systemic exposure after repeat dose administration (AUC last) was equivalent for subcutaneous and intravenous administration. The AUC last geometric mean ratio (90% confidence interval) was 0.99 (0.80 to 1.23). The C max after subcutaneous administration (20.4 ng/mL) was lower than after intravenous administration (223 ng/mL) with repeat dose administration.

    Distribution    
    The mean distribution volume of bortezomib ranged from approximately 498 to 1884 L/m 2 following single- or repeat-dose administration of 1 mg/m 2 or 1.3mg/m 2 to patients with multiple myeloma. The binding of bortezomib to human plasma proteins averaged 83% over the concentration range of 100 to 1000 ng/mL.

    Elimination
    The mean elimination half-life of bortezomib upon multiple dosing ranged from 40 to 193 hours after the 1 mg/m2 dose and 76 to 108 hours after the 1.3 mg/m 2 dose. The mean total body clearances were 102 and 112 L/h following the first dose for doses of 1 mg/m 2 and 1.3 mg/m 2, respectively, and ranged from 15 to 32 L/h following subsequent doses for doses of 1 and 1.3 mg/m 2, respectively.

    Metabolism
    Bortezomib is primarily oxidatively metabolized to several inactive metabolites in vitro via cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes 3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP1A2, and to a lesser extent by CYP2D6 and CYP2C9.

    Excretion
    The pathways of elimination of bortezomib have not been characterized in humans.

    Specific Populations 
    No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of bortezomib were observed based on age, sex, or renal impairment (including patients administered Bortezomib for injection after dialysis). The effect of race on bortezomib pharmacokinetics is unknown.

    Patients with Hepatic Impairment
    Following administration of bortezomib doses ranging from 0.5 to 1.3 mg/m 2, mild (total bilirubin ≤1x ULN and AST >ULN, or total bilirubin >1 to 1.5x ULN and any AST) hepatic impairment did not alter dose-normalized bortezomib AUC when compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Dose normalized mean bortezomib AUC increased by approximately 60% in patients with moderate (total bilirubin >1.5 to 3x ULN and any AST) or severe hepatic impairment. A lower starting dose is recommended in patients with moderate or severe (total bilirubin >3x ULN and any AST) hepatic hepatic impairment.

    Drug Interaction Studies 
    Clinical Studies 
    No clinically significant differences in bortezomib pharmacokinetics were observed when coadministered with dexamethasone (weak CYP3A4 inducer), omeprazole (strong CYP2C19 inhibitor), or melphalan in combination with prednisone.

    Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitor 
    Coadministration with ketoconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased bortezomib exposure by 35%. 
    Strong CYP3A4 Inducer 
    Coadministration with rifampin (strong CYP3A4 inducer) decreased bortezomib exposure by approximately 45%. 

    In Vitro Studies 
    Bortezomib may inhibit CYP2C19 activity and increase exposure to drugs that are substrates for this enzyme.

  • 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Carcinogenicity studies have not been conducted with bortezomib.

    Bortezomib showed clastogenic activity (structural chromosomal aberrations) in the in vitro chromosomal aberration assay using Chinese hamster ovary cells. Bortezomib was not genotoxic when tested in the in vitro mutagenicity assay (Ames test) and in vivo micronucleus assay in mice.

    Fertility studies with bortezomib were not performed but evaluation of reproductive tissues has been performed in the general toxicity studies. In the six month rat toxicity study, degenerative effects in the ovary were observed at doses ≥ 0.3 mg/m 2 (one-fourth of the recommended clinical dose), and degenerative changes in the testes occurred at 1.2 mg/m 2.

    13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

    Cardiovascular Toxicity
    Studies in monkeys showed that administration of dosages approximately twice the recommended clinical dose resulted in heart rate elevations, followed by profound progressive hypotension, bradycardia, and death 12 to 14 hours postdose. Doses ≥ 1.2 mg/m 2 induced dose-proportional changes in cardiac parameters. Bortezomib has been shown to distribute to most tissues in the body, including the myocardium. In a repeated dosing toxicity study in the monkey, myocardial hemorrhage, inflammation, and necrosis were also observed.

    Chronic Administration
    In animal studies at a dose and schedule similar to that recommended for patients (twice weekly dosing for two weeks followed by one week rest), toxicities observed included severe anemia and thrombocytopenia, and gastrointestinal, neurological and lymphoid system toxicities. Neurotoxic effects of bortezomib in animal studies included axonal swelling and degeneration in peripheral nerves, dorsal spinal roots, and tracts of the spinal cord. Additionally, multifocal hemorrhage and necrosis in the brain, eye, and heart were observed.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    14.1 Multiple Myeloma

    Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Study in Patients with Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma

    A prospective, international, randomized (1:1), open-label clinical study of 682 (NCT00111319) patients was conducted to determine whether Bortezomib for injection administered intravenously (1.3 mg/m 2) in combination with melphalan (9 mg/m 2) and prednisone (60 mg/m 2) resulted in improvement in time to progression (TTP) when compared to melphalan (9 mg/m 2) and prednisone (60 mg/m 2) in patients with previously untreated multiple myeloma. Treatment was administered for a maximum of nine cycles (approximately 54 weeks) and was discontinued early for disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Antiviral prophylaxis was recommended for patients on the Bortezomib for injection study arm.

    The median age of the patients in the study was 71 years (48;91), 50% were male, 88% were Caucasian and the median Karnofsky performance status score for the patients was 80 (60;100). Patients had IgG/IgA/Light chain myeloma in 63%/25%/8% instances, a median hemoglobin of 105 g/L (64;165), and a median platelet count of 221,500 /microliter (33,000;587,000).

    Efficacy results for the trial are presented in Table 14. At a prespecified interim analysis (with median follow-up of 16.3 months), the combination of Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone therapy resulted in significantly superior results for time to progression, progression-free survival, overall survival and response rate. Further enrollment was halted, and patients receiving melphalan and prednisone were offered Bortezomib for injection in addition. A later, prespecified analysis of overall survival (with median follow-up of 36.7 months with a hazard ratio of 0.65, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.84) resulted in a statistically significant survival benefit for the Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone treatment arm despite subsequent therapies including Bortezomib for injection based regimens. In an updated analysis of overall survival based on 387 deaths (median follow-up 60.1 months), the median overall survival for the Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone treatment arm was 56.4 months and for the melphalan and prednisone treatment arm was 43.1 months, with a hazard ratio of 0.695 (95% CI: 0.57, 0.85).

    Table 14: Summary of Efficacy Analyses in the Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma Study
    Efficacy Endpoint

    Bortezomib for injection,

    Melphalan and

    Prednisone

    (n=344)

    Melphalan and

    Prednisone

    (n=338)

    Time to Progression
    Events n (%) 101 (29) 152 (45)
    Median a (months) (95% CI)

    20.7

     (17.6, 24.7)

    		 15.0 (14.1, 17.9)
    Hazard ratio b (95% CI)

    0.54

     (0.42, 0.70)

    p-value c 0.000002
    Progression-Free Survival
    Events n (%) 135 (39) 190 (56)
    Median a  (months) (95% CI)

    18.3

    (16.6, 21.7)

    		14.0 (11.1, 15.0)
    Hazard ratio b (95% CI)

    0.61

     (0.49, 0.76)

    p-value c 0.00001
    Response Rate
    CR dn (%) 102 (30) 12 (4)
    PR dn (%) 136 (40) 103 (30)
    nCR n (%) 5 (1) 0
    CR + PR d n (%) 238 (69) 115 (34)
    p-value e <10 -10
    Overall Survival at Median Follow Up of 36.7 months
    Events (deaths) n (%) 109 (32) 148 (44)
    Median a (months) (95% CI)

    Not Reached

    (46.2, NR)

    		43.1 (34.8, NR)
    Hazard ratio b (95% CI)

    0.65

    (0.51, 0.84)

    p-value c 0.00084

    Note: All results are based on the analysis performed at a median follow-up duration of 16.3 months except for the overall survival analysis.
    aKaplan-Meier estimate

    bHazard ratio estimate is based on a Cox proportional-hazard model adjusted for stratification factors: beta2-microglobulin, albumin, and region. A hazard ratio less than one indicates an advantage for Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone

    cp-value based on the stratified log-rank test adjusted for stratification factors: beta 2-microglobulin, albumin, and region

    dEBMT criteria

    ep-value for Response Rate (CR + PR) from the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test adjusted for the stratification factors

    TTP was statistically significantly longer on the Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone arm ( see Figure 1). (median follow-up 16.3 months)

    Figure 1: Time to Progression
    Bortezomib for injection, Melphalan and Prednisone vs Melphalan and Prednisone
    Graph - Time to progression

    Overall survival was statistically significantly longer on the Bortezomib for injection, melphalan and prednisone arm (see Figure 2). (median follow-up 60.1 months)

    Figure 2: Overall Survival
    Bortezomib for injection, Melphalan and Prednisone vs Melphalan and Prednisone
    Graph - Overall survival

    Randomized, Clinical Study in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma of Bortezomib for injection vs Dexamethasone

    A prospective Phase 3, international, randomized (1:1), stratified, open-label clinical study (NCT00048230) enrolling 669 patients was designed to determine whether Bortezomib for injection resulted in improvement in time to progression (TTP) compared to high-dose dexamethasone in patients with progressive multiple myeloma following 1 to 3 prior therapies. Patients considered to be refractory to prior high-dose dexamethasone were excluded as were those with baseline Grade ≥2 peripheral neuropathy or platelet counts <50,000/µL. A total of 627 patients were evaluable for response.

    Stratification factors were based on the number of lines of prior therapy the patient had previously received (one previous line vs more than one line of therapy), time of progression relative to prior treatment (progression during or within six months of stopping their most recent therapy vs relapse > 6 months after receiving their most recent therapy), and screening beta 2-microglobulin levels (≤2.5 mg/L vs >2.5 mg/L).

    Baseline patient and disease characteristics are summarized in Table 15.

    Table 15: Summary of Baseline Patient and Disease Characteristics in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study
    Patient CharacteristicsBortezomib for injection
    (N=333)     		Dexamethasone
    (N=336)
      Median age in years (range)62.0 (33, 84)61.0 (27, 86)
      Gender: Male/female56% / 44%60% / 40%
      Race: Caucasian/black/other90% / 6% / 4%88% / 7% / 5%
      Karnofsky performance status score ≤7013%17%
      Hemoglobin <100 g/L32%28%
      Platelet count <75 x 10 9/L 6%4%
    Disease Characteristics
      Type of myeloma (%): IgG/IgA/Light chain60% / 23% / 12%59% / 24% / 13%
      Median beta 2-microglobulin (mg/L) 3.73.6
      Median albumin (g/L)39.039.0
      Creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min [n (%)]17 (5%)11 (3%)
    Median Duration of Multiple Myeloma Since Diagnosis (Years)3.53.1
    Number of Prior Therapeutic Lines of Treatment
      Median22
      1 prior line40%35%
      >1 prior line60%65%
    Previous Therapy
      Any prior steroids, e.g., dexamethasone, VAD98%99%
      Any prior anthracyclines, e.g., VAD, mitoxantrone77%76%
      Any prior alkylating agents, e.g., MP, VBMCP91%92%
      Any prior thalidomide therapy48%50%
      Vinca alkaloids74%72%
      Prior stem cell transplant/other high-dose therapy67%68%
      Prior experimental or other types of therapy3%2%

    Patients in the Bortezomib for injection treatment group were to receive 8, three week treatment cycles followed by 3, five week treatment cycles of Bortezomib for injection. Patients achieving a CR were treated for four cycles beyond first evidence of CR. Within each three week treatment cycle, Bortezomib for injection 1.3 mg/m 2/dose alone was administered by intravenous bolus twice weekly for two weeks on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21). Within each five week treatment cycle, Bortezomib for injection 1.3 mg/m 2/dose alone was administered by intravenous bolus once weekly for four weeks on Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 followed by a 13 day rest period (Days 23 to 35) [ see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

    Patients in the dexamethasone treatment group were to receive 4 five week treatment cycles followed by 5, four week treatment cycles. Within each five week treatment cycle, dexamethasone 40 mg/day PO was administered once daily on Days 1 to 4, 9 to 12, and 17 to 20 followed by a 15 day rest period (Days 21 to 35). Within each four week treatment cycle, dexamethasone 40 mg/day PO was administered once daily on Days 1 to 4 followed by a 24 day rest period (Days 5 to 28). Patients with documented progressive disease on dexamethasone were offered Bortezomib for injection at a standard dose and schedule on a companion study. Following a preplanned interim analysis of time to progression, the dexamethasone arm was halted and all patients randomized to dexamethasone were offered Bortezomib for injection, regardless of disease status.

    In the Bortezomib for injection arm, 34% of patients received at least one Bortezomib for injection dose in all eight of the three week cycles of therapy, and 13% received at least one dose in all 11 cycles. The average number of Bortezomib for injection doses during the study was 22, with a range of 1 to 44. In the dexamethasone arm, 40% of patients received at least one dose in all four of the five week treatment cycles of therapy, and 6% received at least one dose in all nine cycles.

    The time to event analyses and response rates from the relapsed multiple myeloma study are presented in Table 16. Response and progression were assessed using the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) criteria. Complete response (CR) required <5% plasma cells in the marrow, 100% reduction in M-protein, and a negative immunofixation test (IF -). Partial response (PR) requires ≥50% reduction in serum myeloma protein and ≥90% reduction of urine myeloma protein on at least two occasions for a minimum of at least six weeks along with stable bone disease and normal calcium. Near complete response (nCR) was defined as meeting all the criteria for complete response including 100% reduction in M-protein by protein electrophoresis; however, M-protein was still detectable by immunofixation (IF +).

    Table 16: Summary of Efficacy Analyses in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study
    Efficacy EndpointAll Patients1 Prior Line of Therapy> 1 Prior Line of Therapy

    Bortezomib

    for injection

    		Dex

    Bortezomib

    for injection

    		Dex

    Bortezomib

    for injection

    		Dex
    (n=333)(n=336)(n=132)(n=119)(n=200)(n=217)

    Time to Progression

    Events n (%)

    		147 (44) 196 (58) 55 (42) 64 (54) 92 (46) 132 (61)

    Median a

     (95% CI)

    6.2 mo

    (4.9, 6.9)

    3.5 mo

    (2.9, 4.2)

    7.0 mo

     (6.2, 8.8)

    5.6 mo

     (3.4, 6.3)

    4.9 mo

     (4.2, 6.3)

    2.9 mo

    2.8, 3.5)

    Hazard ratio b à

    (95% CI)

    0.55

    (0.44, 0.69)

    0.55

     (0.38, 0.81)

    0.54

     (0.41, 0.72)

    p-value c <0.0001 0.0019 <0.0001

    Overall Survival

     Events (deaths) n (%)

    		51 (15) 84 (25) 12 (9) 24 (20) 39 (20) 60 (28)

    Hazard ratio b

     (95% CI)

    0.57

     (0.40, 0.81)

    0.39

     (0.19, 0.81)

    0.65

     (0.43, 0.97)

    p-value c,d <0.05 <0.05 <0.05

    Response Rate

    Population e 

     n = 627

    		n=315 n=312 n=128 n=110 n=187 n=202
    CR fn (%) 20 (6) 2 (<1) 8 (6) 2 (2) 12 (6) 0 (0)
    PR f n (%) 101 (32) 54 (17) 49 (38) 27 (25) 52 (28) 27 (13)
    nCR f,g n (%) 21 (7) 3 (<1) 8 (6) 2 (2) 13 (7) 1 (<1)

    CR + PR f

     n (%)

    		121 (38) 56 (18) 57 (45) 29 (26) 64 (34) 27 (13)
    p-value h <0.0001 0.0035 <0.0001

    a Kaplan-Meier estimate
    b Hazard ratio is based on Cox proportional-hazard model with the treatment as single independent variable. A hazard ratio less than one indicates an advantage for Bortezomib for injection
    c p-value based on the stratified log-rank test including randomization stratification factors
    d Precise p-value cannot be rendered
    e Response population includes patients who had measurable disease at baseline and received at least one dose of study drug
    f EBMT criteria; nCR meets all EBMT criteria for CR but has positive IF. Under EBMT criteria nCR is in the PR category
    g In two patients, the IF was unknown
    h p-value for Response Rate (CR + PR) from the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test adjusted for the stratification factors

    TTP was statistically significantly longer on the Bortezomib for injection arm (see Figure 3).

    Figure 3: Time to Progression
    Bortezomib vs Dexamethasone (Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study)
    Graph - Time to progression

    As shown in Figure 4 Bortezomib for injection had a significant survival advantage relative to dexamethasone (p < 0.05). The median follow-up was 8.3 months.

    Figure 4: Overall Survival
    Bortezomib vs Dexamethasone (Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study)
    Graph - Overall survival

    For the 121 patients achieving a response (CR or PR) on the Bortezomib for injection arm, the median duration was 8.0 months (95% CI: 6.9, 11.5 months) compared to 5.6 months (95% CI: 4.8, 9.2 months) for the 56 responders on the dexamethasone arm. The response rate was significantly higher on the Bortezomib for injection arm regardless of beta2-microglobulin levels at baseline.

    Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Study of Bortezomib for injection Subcutaneous vs Intravenous in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

    An open-label, randomized, Phase 3 noninferiority study (NCT00722566) compared the efficacy and safety of the subcutaneous administration of Bortezomib for injection vs the intravenous administration. This study included 222 bortezomib naïve patients with relapsed multiple myeloma, who were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive 1.3 mg/m 2 of Bortezomib for injection by either the subcutaneous (n=148) or intravenous (n=74) route for eight cycles. Patients who did not obtain an optimal response (less than Complete Response (CR)) to therapy with Bortezomib for injection alone after four cycles were allowed to receive oral dexamethasone 20 mg daily on the day of and after Bortezomib for injection administration (82 patients in subcutaneous treatment group and 39 patients in the intravenous treatment group). Patients with baseline Grade ≥2 peripheral neuropathy or neuropathic pain, or platelet counts <50,000/µL were excluded. A total of 218 patients were evaluable for response.

    Stratification factors were based on the number of lines of prior therapy the patient had received (one previous line vs more than one line of therapy), and international staging system (ISS) stage (incorporating beta 2-microglobulin and albumin levels; Stages I, II, or III).

    The baseline demographic and other characteristics of the two treatment groups are summarized as follows: the median age of the patient population was approximately 64 years of age (range 38 to 88 years), primarily male (subcutaneous: 50%, intravenous: 64%); the primary type of myeloma is IgG (subcutaneous: 65% IgG, 26% IgA, 8% light chain; intravenous: 72% IgG, 19% IgA, 8% light chain), ISS staging I/II/III (%) was 27, 41, 32 for both subcutaneous and intravenous, Karnofsky performance status score was ≤ 70% in 22% of subcutaneous and 16% of intravenous, creatinine clearance was 67.5 mL/min in subcutaneous and 73 mL/min in intravenous, the median years from diagnosis was 2.68 and 2.93 in subcutaneous and intravenous respectively and the proportion of patients with more than one prior line of therapy was 38% in subcutaneous and 35% in intravenous.

    This study met its primary (noninferiority) objective that single agent subcutaneous Bortezomib for injection retains at least 60% of the overall response rate after four cycles relative to single agent intravenous Bortezomib for injection. The results are provided in Table 17.

    Table 17: Summary of Efficacy Analyses in the Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Study of Bortezomib for injection Subcutaneous versus Intravenous
    Subcutaneous Bortezomib for injectionIntravenous Bortezomib for injection
    Intent to Treat Population(n=148)(n=74)
      Primary Endpoint
      Response Rate at 4 Cycles
        ORR (CR + PR) n(%)63 (43)31 (42)
        Ratio of Response Rates (95% CI)1.01 (0.73, 1.40)
          CR n (%)11 (7)6 (8)
          PR n (%)52 (35)25 (34)
          nCR n (%)9 (6)4 (5)
    Secondary Endpoints
    Response Rate at 8 Cycles
        ORR (CR + PR)78 (53)38 (51)
        CR n (%)17 (11)9 (12)
        PR n (%)61 (41)29 (39)
        nCR n (%)14 (9)7 (9)
    Median Time to Progression, months10.49.4
    Median Progression-Free Survival, months10.28.0
    1 Year Overall Survival (%) a72.676.7

    aMedian duration of follow up is 11.8 months

    A Randomized Phase 2 Dose-Response Study in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

    An open-label, multicenter study randomized 54 patients with multiple myeloma who had progressed or relapsed on or after front-line therapy to receive Bortezomib for injection 1 mg/m 2 or 1.3 mg/m 2 intravenous bolus twice weekly for two weeks on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21). The median duration of time between diagnosis of multiple myeloma and first dose of Bortezomib for injection on this trial was two years, and patients had received a median of one prior line of treatment (median of three prior therapies). A single complete response was seen at each dose. The overall response rates (CR + PR) were 30% (8/27) at 1 mg/m 2 and 38% (10/26) at 1.3 mg/m 2.

    A Phase 2 Open-Label Extension Study in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

    Patients from the two Phase 2 studies, who in the investigators' opinion would experience additional clinical benefit, continued to receive Bortezomib for injection beyond 8 cycles on an extension study. Sixty-three (63) patients from the Phase 2 multiple myeloma studies were enrolled and received a median of seven additional cycles of Bortezomib for injection therapy for a total median of 14 cycles (range 7 to 32). The overall median dosing intensity was the same in both the parent protocol and extension study. Sixty-seven percent (67%) of patients initiated the extension study at the same or higher dose intensity at which they completed the parent protocol, and 89% of patients maintained the standard three week dosing schedule during the extension study. No new cumulative or new long-term toxicities were observed with prolonged Bortezomib for injection treatment [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

    A Single-Arm Trial of Retreatment in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma 
    A single arm, open-label trial (NCT00431769) was conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of retreatment with Bortezomib for injection. One hundred and thirty patients (≥18 years of age) with multiple myeloma who previously had at least partial response on a Bortezomib for injection-containing regimen (median of two prior lines of therapy [range 1 to 7]) were retreated upon progression with Bortezomib for injection administered intravenously. Patients were excluded from trial participation if they had peripheral neuropathy or neuropathic pain of Grade ≥2. At least six months after prior Bortezomib for injection therapy, Bortezomib for injection was restarted at the last tolerated dose of 1.3 mg/m2 (n=93) or ≤1 mg/m2 (n=37) and given on Days 1, 4, 8 and 11 every three weeks for maximum of eight cycles either as single agent or in combination with dexamethasone in accordance with the standard of care. Dexamethasone was administered in combination with Bortezomib for injection to 83 patients in Cycle 1 with an additional 11 patients receiving dexamethasone during the course of Bortezomib for injection retreatment cycles.

    The primary endpoint was best confirmed response to retreatment as assessed by European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) criteria. Fifty of the 130 patients achieved a best confirmed response of Partial Response or better for an overall response rate of 38.5% (95% CI: 30.1, 47.4). One patient achieved a Complete Response and 49 achieved Partial Response. In the 50 responding patients, the median duration of response was 6.5 months and the range was 0.6 to 19.3 months.

    14.2 Mantle Cell Lymphoma

    A Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Study in Patients with Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma 
    A randomized, open-label, Phase 3 study (NCT00722137) was conducted in 487 adult patients with previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma (Stage II, III or IV) who were ineligible or not considered for bone marrow transplantation to determine whether Bortezomib for injection administered in combination with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone (VcR-CAP) resulted in improvement in progression free survival (PFS) when compared to the combination of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP). This clinical study utilized independent pathology confirmation and independent radiologic response assessment.

    Patients in the VcR-CAP treatment arm received Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m 2) administered intravenously on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 (rest period Days 12 to 21); rituximab (375 mg/m 2) on Day 1; cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m 2) on Day 1; doxorubicin (50 mg/m 2) on Day 1; and prednisone (100 mg/m 2) on Day 1 through Day 5 of the 21 day treatment cycle. For patients with a response first documented at Cycle 6, two additional treatment cycles were allowed.

    Median patient age was 66 years, 74% were male, 66% were Caucasian and 32% were Asian. Sixty nine percent of patients had a positive bone marrow aspirate and/or a positive bone marrow biopsy for MCL, 54% of patients had an International Prognostic Index (IPI) score of three (high intermediate) or higher and 76% had Stage IV disease.

    The majority of the patients in both groups received six or more cycles of treatment, 84% in the VcR-CAP group and 83% in the R-CHOP group. Median number of cycles received by patients in both treatment arms was six with 17% of patients in the R-CHOP group and 14% of subjects in the VcR-CAP group receiving up to two additional cycles.

    The efficacy results for PFS, CR and ORR with a median follow-up of 40 months are presented in Table 18. The response criteria used to assess efficacy were based on the International Workshop to Standardize Response Criteria for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (IWRC). Final overall survival results at a median follow-up of 78.5 months are also presented in  Table 18 and Figure 6. The combination of VcR-CAP resulted in statistically significant prolongation of PFS compared with R-CHOP (see Table 18, Figure 5).

    Table 18: Summary of Efficacy Analyses in the Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma Study
    Efficacy Endpoint
    n: Intent to Treat patients     		VcR-CAP
    (n=243)     		R-CHOP
    (n=244)

    Note: All results are based on the analysis performed at a median follow-up duration of 40 months except for the overall survival analysis, which was performed at a median follow-up of 78.5 months.

    CI = Confidence Interval; IPI = International Prognostic Index; LDH = Lactate dehydrogenase
    a. Based on Kaplan-Meier product limit estimates.
    b. Hazard ratio estimate is based on a Cox's model stratified by IPI risk and stage of disease. A hazard ratio <1 indicates an advantage for VcR-CAP.
    c. Based on Log rank test stratified with IPI risk and stage of disease.
    d. Includes CR by independent radiographic assessment, bone marrow, and LDH using ITT population.
    e. Includes CR + Cru + PR by independent radiographic assessment, regardless of the verification by bone marrow and LDH, using ITT population.

    Progression-Free Survival (by independent radiographic assessment)
    Events n (%)133 (55)165 (68)
    Median a (months)
    (95% CI)     		25
    (20, 32)     		14
    (12, 17)
    Hazard ratio b
    (95% CI)     		0.63
    (0.50, 0.79)
    p-value c<0.001
    Complete Response Rate (CR) d
    n (%)
    (95% CI)     		108 (44)
    (38, 51)     		82 (34)
    (28, 40)
    Overall Response Rate (CR + Cru + PR) e
    n (%)214 (88)208 (85)
    (95% CI)(83, 92)(80, 89)
    Overall Survival
    Events n(%)103 (42)138 (57)
    Median a (months)
    (95% CI)     		91
    (71, NE)     		56
    (47, 69)
    Hazard Ratio b
    (95% CI)     		0.66
    (0.51, 0.85)
    Progression Free Survival

    Key: R-CHOP = rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone; 
    VcR-CAP = VELCADE, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone.

    Overall Survival

    Key: R-CHOP = rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone; 
    VcR-CAP = VELCADE, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone

    A Phase 2 Single-Arm Clinical Study in Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma after Prior Therapy 
    The safety and efficacy of Bortezomib for injection in relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma were evaluated in an open-label, single-arm, multicenter study (NCT00063713) of 155 patients with progressive disease who had received at least one prior therapy. The median age of the patients was 65 years (42, 89), 81% were male, and 92% were Caucasian. Of the total, 75% had one or more extra-nodal sites of disease, and 77% were Stage 4. In 91% of the patients, prior therapy included all of the following: an anthracycline or mitoxantrone, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab. A total of thirty seven percent (37%) of patients were refractory to their last prior therapy. An intravenous bolus injection of Bortezomib for injection 1.3 mg/m2/dose was administered twice weekly for two weeks on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21) for a maximum of 17 treatment cycles. Patients achieving a CR or CRu were treated for four cycles beyond first evidence of CR or CRu. The study employed dose modifications for toxicity[ see  Dosage and Administration (2.6, 2.7) ]

    Responses to Bortezomib for injection are shown in Table 19. Response rates to Bortezomib for injection were determined according to the International Workshop Response Criteria (IWRC) based on independent radiologic review of CT scans. The median number of cycles administered across all patients was four; in responding patients the median number of cycles was eight. The median time to response was 40 days (range: 31 to 204 days). The median duration of follow-up was more than 13 months.

    Table 19: Response Outcomes in a Phase 2 Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma Study
    Response Analyses (N = 155)N (%)95% CI
      Overall Response Rate (IWRC) (CR + CRu + PR)48 (31)(24, 39)
        Complete Response (CR + CRu)12 (8)(4, 13)
          CR10 (6)(3, 12)
          CRu2 (1)(0, 5)
        Partial Response (PR)36 (23)(17, 31)
    Duration of ResponseMedian95% CI
        CR + CRu + PR (N = 48)9.3 months(5.4, 13.8)
        CR + CRu (N = 12)15.4 months(13.4, 15.4)
        PR (N=36)6.1 months(4.2, 9.3)

  • 15 REFERENCES

    1. "OSHA Hazardous Drugs" (refer to antineoplastic weblinks including OSHA Technical Manual). OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html
  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING


    Bortezomib for injection , 3.5 mg/vialis supplied as individually cartoned 10 mL vials containing 3.5 mg of bortezomib as a white to off-white cake or powder.
    NDC: 51817-586-01
    3.5 mg single-dose vial

    Unopened vials may be stored at controlled room temperature 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Retain in original package to protect from light.

    Follow guidelines for handling and disposal for hazardous drugs, including the use of gloves and other protective clothing to prevent skin contact 1.

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Discuss the following with patients prior to treatment with Bortezomib for injection :

    Peripheral Neuropathy Advise patients to report the development or worsening of sensory and motor peripheral neuropathy to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

    Hypotension Advise patients to drink adequate fluids to avoid dehydration and to report symptoms of hypotension to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. 
    Instruct patients to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms of dizziness, light headedness or fainting spells, or muscle cramps.

    Cardiac Toxicity Advise patients to report signs or symptoms of heart failure to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

    Pulmonary Toxicity Advise patients to report symptoms of ARDS, pulmonary hypertension, pneumonitis, and pneumonia immediately to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

    Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention for signs or symptoms of PRES [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

    Gastrointestinal Toxicity Advise patients to report symptoms of gastrointestinal toxicity to their healthcare provider and to drink adequate fluids to avoid dehydration. Instruct patients to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms of dizziness, light headedness or fainting spells, or muscle cramps [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

    T hrombocytopenia/Neutropenia Advise patients to report signs or symptoms of bleeding or infection immediately to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. 

    Tumor Lysis Syndrome Advise patients of the risk of tumor lysis syndrome and to drink adequate fluids to avoid dehydration [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]. 

    Hepatic Toxicity Advise patients to report signs or symptoms of hepatic toxicity to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

    Thrombotic Microangiopathy 
    Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if any signs or symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy occur [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

    Ability to Drive or Operate Machinery or Impairment of Mental Ability 
    Bortezomib for injection may cause fatigue, dizziness, syncope, orthostatic/postural hypotension. Advise patients not to drive or operate machinery if they experience any of these symptoms [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.5)].

    Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
    Advise females of the potential risk to the fetus and to use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for seven months following the last dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Bortezomib for injection and for four months following the last dose. Instruct patients to report pregnancy to their physicians immediately if they or their female partner becomes pregnant during treatment or within seven months following last dose [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)]. 

    Lactation
    Advise women not to breastfeed while receiving Bortezomib for injection and for two months after last dose [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

    Concomitant Medications
    Advise patients to speak with their physicians about any other medication they are currently taking.

    Diabetic Patients
    Advise patients to check their blood sugar frequently if using an oral antidiabetic medication and to notify their physicians of any changes in blood sugar level.

    Dermal
    Advise patients to contact their physicians if they experience rash, severe injection site reactions [ see Dosage and Administration (2.9)], or skin pain. Discuss with patients the option for antiviral prophylaxis for herpes virus infection [ see  Adverse Reactions (6.1) ].

    Other
    Instruct patients to contact their physicians if they develop an increase in blood pressure, bleeding, fever, constipation, or decreased appetite.

  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    Manufactured by: Pharmascience Inc.

    100 Boul. de l’Industrie, Candiac, QC, Canada, J5R 1J1

    Company Logo

    Revised: November 2021 (Rev 07)

    PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 3.5 mg Carton Label

    Reconstitution Information

    SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION ONLY

    0.9% NaCl
    Add 1.4 mL
    0.9% Sodium Chloride

    To make 2.5 mg / mL final concentration

  • INTRAVENOUS INJECTION ONLY

    0.9% NaCl
    Add 3.5 mL
    0.9% Sodium Chloride

    To make 1 mg / mL final concentration

    Carton Label

    PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 3.5 mg Vial Label

    Bortezomib for Injection

    3.5 mg/vial

    SINGLE DOSE VIAL
    DISCARD UNUSED PORTION

    FOR INTRAVENOUS OR
    SUBCUTANEOUS USE

    Vial Label
  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    BORTEZOMIB 
    bortezomib injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 51817-586
    Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUS, SUBCUTANEOUS
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    BORTEZOMIB (UNII: 69G8BD63PP) (BORTEZOMIB - UNII:69G8BD63PP) BORTEZOMIB3.5 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    MANNITOL (UNII: 3OWL53L36A) 35 mg
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 51817-586-011 in 1 CARTON05/02/2022
    11 in 1 VIAL; Type 0: Not a Combination Product
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA20839205/02/2022
    Labeler - Pharmascience Inc. (202657094)
    Registrant - Pharmascience Inc. (202657094)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Pharmascience Inc.202657094manufacture(51817-586)
    • © 2024 FDA.report
    This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FDA.