AZITHROMYCIN- azithromycin for injection injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution injection

Azithromycin by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Azithromycin by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by APOTEX CORP., Gland Pharma Limited. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of azithromycin and other bacterial drugs, azithromycin for injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.

DESCRIPTION

Azithromycin for injection contains the active ingredient azithromycin, an azalide, a subclass of macrolide antibiotics, for intravenous injection. Azithromycin has the chemical name ( 2R,3S,4R,5R,8R,10R,11R,12S,13S,14R)-13-[(2,6-dideoxy-3- C-methyl-3- O-methyl-a-L- ribo-hexopyranosyl)oxy]-2-ethyl-3,4,10-trihydroxy-3,5,6,8,10,12,14-hepta-methyl-11-[[3,4,6-trideoxy-3-(dimethylamino)-ß- D- xylo-hexopyranosyl]oxy]-1-oxa- 6-azacyclopentadecan-15-one. Azithromycin is derived from erythromycin; however, it differs chemically from erythromycin in that a methyl-substituted nitrogen atom is incorporated into the lactone ring. Its molecular formula is C38H72N2O12, and its molecular weight is 749. Azithromycin has the following structural formula:

Azithromycin, as the monohydrate, is a white crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C38H72N2O12.H2O and a molecular weight of 767.

Azithromycin for injection consists of azithromycin monohydrate and the following inactive ingredients: citric acid and sodium hydroxide. Azithromycin for injection is supplied in lyophilized form in a 10 mL vial equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin, 384.5 mg of citric acid, and sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment. Reconstitution, according to label directions, results in approximately 5 mL of azithromycin for intravenous injection with each mL containing 100 mg azithromycin (from azithromycin monohydrate).

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Pharmacokinetics

In patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia receiving single daily one-hour intravenous infusions for 2 to 5 days of 500 mg azithromycin at a concentration of 2 mg/mL, the mean Cmax ± S.D. achieved was 3.63 ± 1.60 mcg/mL, while the 24- hour trough level was 0.20 ± 0.15 mcg/mL, and the AUC24 was 9.60 ± 4.80 mcgh/mL.

The mean C max, 24 hour trough and AUC24 values were 1.14 ± 0.14 mcg/mL, 0.18 ± 0.02 mcg/mL, and 8.03 ± 0.86 mcgh/mL, respectively, in normal volunteers receiving a 3-hour intravenous infusion of 500 mg azithromycin at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. Similar pharmacokinetic values were obtained in patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia that received the same 3-hour dosage regimen for 2 to 5 days.

Plasma concentrations (mcg/mL ± S.D.) after the last daily intravenous infusion of 500 mg azithromycin
Infusion ConcentrationDuration	Time after starting the infusion (hr)
	0.5	1	2	3	4	6	8	12	24
2 mg/mL, 1 hr *	2.98	3.63	0.60	0.40	0.33	0.26	0.27	0.20	0.20
	±1.12	±1.73	±0.31	±0.23	±0.16	±0.14	±0.15	±0.12	±0.15
1 mg/mL, 3 hr †	0.91	1.02	1.14	1.13	0.32	0.28	0.27	0.22	0.18
	±0.13	±0.11	±0.13	±0.16	±0.05	±0.04	±0.03	±0.02	±0.02
* = 500 mg (2 mg/mL) for 2-5 days in Community-acquired pneumonia patients. † = 500 mg (1 mg/mL) for 5 days in healthy subjects.

The average CLt and Vd values were 10.18 mL/min/kg and 33.3 L/kg, respectively, in 18 normal volunteers receiving 1000 to 4000-mg doses given as 1 mg/mL over 2 hours.

Comparison of the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters following the 1st and 5th daily doses of 500 mg intravenous azithromycin showed only an 8% increase in Cmax but a 61% increase in AUC24 reflecting a threefold rise in C24 trough levels.

Following single oral doses of 500 mg azithromycin (two 250 mg capsules) to 12 healthy volunteers, Cmax, trough level, and AUC24 were reported to be 0.41 mcg/mL, 0.05 mcg/mL, and 2.6 mcgh/mL, respectively. These oral values are approximately 38%, 83%, and 52% of the values observed following a single 500-mg I.V. 3-hour infusion (Cmax: 1.08 mcg/mL, trough: 0.06 mcg/mL, and AUC 24: 5 mcgh/mL). Thus, plasma concentrations are higher following the intravenous regimen throughout the 24 hour interval. The pharmacokinetic parameters on day 5 of azithromycin 250 mg capsules following a 500 mg oral loading dose to healthy young adults (age 18 to 40 years old) were as follows: Cmax: 0.24 mcg/mL, AUC24: 2.1 mcgh/mL. Azithromycin 250 mg capsules are no longer commercially available. Azithromycin 250 mg tablets are bioequivalent to 250 mg capsules in the fasting state.

Median azithromycin exposure (AUC 0-288) in mononuclear (MN) and polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes following 1,500 mg of oral azithromycin, administered in single daily doses over either 5 days (two 250 mg tablets on day 1, followed by one 250 mg tablet on days 2 to 5) or 3 days (500 mg per day for days 1 to 3) to 12 healthy volunteers, was more than a 1000 fold and 800 fold greater than in serum, respectively.

Distribution

The serum protein binding of azithromycin is variable in the concentration range approximating human exposure, decreasing from 51% at 0.02 mcg/mL to 7% at 2 mcg/mL.

Tissue concentrations have not been obtained following intravenous infusions of azithromycin. Selected tissue (or fluid) concentration and tissue (or fluid) to plasma/serum concentration ratios following oral administration of azithromycin are shown in the following table:

AZITHROMYCIN CONCENTRATIONS FOLLOWING A500 mg DOSE (TWO 250 mg CAPSULES) IN ADULTS
TISSUE OR FLUID	TIME AFTER DOSE (h)	TISSUE OR FLUID CONCENTRATION (mcg/g or mcg/mL)	CORRESPONDING PLASMA OR SERUM LEVEL (mcg/mL)	TISSUE (FLUID) PLASMA (SERUM) RATIO1
SKIN	72-96	0.4	0.012	35
LUNG	72-96	4	0.012	>100
SPUTUM *	2-4	1	0.64	2
SPUTUM **	10-12	2.9	0.1	30
TONSIL ***	9-18	4.5	0.03	>100
TONSIL ***	180	0.9	0.006	>100
CERVIX ****	19	2.8	0.04	70
1 High tissue concentrations should not be interpreted to be quantitatively related to clinical efficacy. The antimicrobial activity of azithromycin is pH related and appears to be reduced with decreasing pH. However, the extensive distribution of drug to tissues may be relevant to clinical activity.
* Sample was obtained 2 to 4 hours after the first dose.
** Sample was obtained 10 to 12 hours after the first dose.
*** Dosing regimen of 2 doses of 250 mg each, separated by 12 hours.
**** Sample was obtained 19 hours after single 500 mg dose.

Tissue levels were determined following a single oral dose of 500 mg azithromycin in 7 gynecological patients. Approximately 17 hours after dosing, azithromycin concentrations were 2.7 mcg/g in ovarian tissue, 3.5 mcg/g in uterine tissue, and 3.3 mcg/g in salpinx. Following a regimen of 500 mg on the first day followed by 250 mg daily for 4 days, concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid were less than 0.01 mcg/mL in the presence of non-inflamed meninges.

Metabolism

In vitro and in vivo studies to assess the metabolism of azithromycin have not been performed.

Elimination

Plasma concentrations of azithromycin following single 500 mg oral and I.V. doses declined in a polyphasic pattern with a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and terminal elimination half-life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues.

In a multiple-dose study in 12 normal volunteers utilizing a 500 mg (1 mg/mL) one-hour intravenous-dosage regimen for five days, the amount of administered azithromycin dose excreted in urine in 24 hours was about 11% after the 1st dose and 14% after the 5th dose. These values are greater than the reported 6% excreted unchanged in urine after oral administration of azithromycin. Biliary excretion is a major route of elimination for unchanged drug, following oral administration.

Special Populations

Renal Insufficiency

Azithromycin pharmacokinetics were investigated in 42 adults (21 to 85 years of age) with varying degrees of renal impairment. Following the oral administration of a single 1,000 mg dose of azithromycin, mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased by 5.1% and 4.2%, respectively in subjects with mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR 10 to 80 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR >80 mL/min). The mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased 61% and 35%, respectively in subjects with severe renal impairment (GFR <10 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR > 80 mL/min). (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

Hepatic Insufficiency

The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in subjects with hepatic impairment have not been established.

Gender

There are no significant differences in the disposition of azithromycin between male and female subjects. No dosage adjustment is recommended based on gender.

Geriatric Patients

Pharmacokinetic studies with intravenous azithromycin have not been performed in older volunteers. Pharmacokinetics of azithromycin following oral administration in older volunteers (65 to 85 years old) were similar to those in younger volunteers (18 to 40 years old) for the 5-day therapeutic regimen.

Pediatric Patients

Pharmacokinetic studies with intravenous azithromycin have not been performed in children.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Drug interaction studies were performed with oral azithromycin and other drugs likely to be co-administered. The effects of co-administration of azithromycin on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs are shown in Table 1 and the effect of other drugs on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin are shown in Table 2.

Co-administration of azithromycin at therapeutic doses had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of the drugs listed in Table 1. No dosage adjustment of drugs listed in Table 1 is recommended when co-administered with azithromycin.

Co-administration of azithromycin with efavirenz or fluconazole had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin. Nelfinavir significantly increased the Cmax and AUC of azithromycin. No dosage adjustment of azithromycin is recommended when administered with drugs listed in Table 2. (See PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions.)

Table 1. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Co-administered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin
Co-administered Drug	Dose of Co- administered Drug	Dose of Azithromycin	n	Ratio (with/without azithromycin) of Co-administered Drug Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
				Mean C max	Mean AUC
Atorvastatin	10 mg/day × 8 days	500 mg/day PO on days 6-8	12	0.83	1.01
				(0.63 to 1.08)	(0.81 to 1.25)
Carbamazepine	200 mg/day × 2 days, then 200 mg BID × 18 days	500 mg/day PO for days 16-18	7	0.97	0.96
				(0.88 to 1.06)	(0.88 to 1.06)
Cetirizine	20 mg/day × 11 days	500 mg PO on day 7, then 250 mg/day on days 8-11	14	1.03	1.02
				(0.93 to 1.14)	(0.92 to 1.13)
Didanosine	200 mg PO BID × 21 days	1,200 mg/day PO on days 8-21	6	1.44	1.14
				(0.85 to 2.43)	(0.83 to 1.57)
Efavirenz	400 mg/day × 7 days	600 mg PO on day 7	14	1.04*	0.95*
Fluconazole	200 mg PO single dose	1,200 mg PO single dose	18	1.04	1.01
				(0.98 to 1.11)	(0.97 to 1.05)
Indinavir	800 mg TID × 5 days	1,200 mg PO on day 5	18	0.96	0.90
				(0.86 to 1.08)	(0.81 to 1.00)
Midazolam	15 mg PO on day 3	500 mg/day PO × 3 days	12	1.27	1.26
				(0.89 to 1.81)	(1.01 to 1.56)
Nelfinavir	750 mg TID × 11 days	1,200 mg PO on day 9	14	0.90	0.85
				(0.81 to 1.01)	(0.78 to 0.93)
Rifabutin	300 mg/day × 10 days	500 mg PO on day 1, then 250 mg/day on days 2-10	6	See footnote below	NA
Sildenafil	100 mg on days 1and 4	500 mg/day PO × 3 days	12	1.16	0.92
				(0.86 to 1.57)	(0.75 to 1.12)
Theophylline	4 mg/kg IV ondays 1, 11, 25	500 mg PO on day 7, 250 mg/day on days 8-11	10	1.19	1.02
				(1.02 to 1.40)	(0.86 to 1.22)
Theophylline	300 mg PO BID × 15 days	500 mg PO on day 6, then 250 mg/day on days 7-10	8	1.09	1.08
				(0.92 to 1.29)	(0.89 to 1.31)
Triazolam	0.125 mg on day 2	500 mg PO on day 1, then 250 mg/day on day 2	12	1.06*	1.02*
Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole	160 mg/800mg/day PO × 7 days	1,200 mg PO on day 7	12	0.85	0.87
				(0.75 to 0.97)/	(0.80 to 0.95/
				0.90	0.96
				(0.78 to 1.03)	(0.88 to 1.03)
Zidovudine	500 mg/day PO × 21 days	600 mg/day PO × 14 days	5	1.12	0.94
				(0.42 to 3.02)	(0.52 to 1.70)
Zidovudine	500 mg/day PO × 21 days	1,200 mg/day PO × 14 days	4	1.31	1.30
				(0.43 to 3.97)	(0.69 to 2.43)
NA - Not Available * - 90% Confidence interval not reported

Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Co-administered Drugs (See PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions.)
Co-administered Drug	Dose of Co- administered Drug	Dose of Azithromycin	n	Ratio (with/without co-administered drug) of Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
				Mean C max	Mean AUC
Efavirenz	400 mg/day × 7 days	600 mg PO on day 7	14	1.22	0.92*
				(1.04 to 1.42)
Fluconazole	200 mg PO single dose	1,200 mg POsingle dose	18	0.82	1.07
				(0.66 to 1.02)	(0.94 to 1.22)
Nelfinavir	750 mg TID × 11 days	1,200 mg PO on day 9	14	2.36	2.12
				(1.77 to 3.15)	(1.80 to 2.50)
Rifabutin	300 mg/day × 10 days	500 mg PO on day 1, then 250 mg/day on days 2-10	6	See footnote below	NA
NA – Not available* - 90% Confidence interval not reported Mean azithromycin concentrations one day after the last dose were 53 ng/mL when coadministered with 300 mg daily rifabutin and 49 ng/mL when coadministered with placebo.

Microbiology

Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, interfering with microbial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected.

Azithromycin concentrates in phagocytes and fibroblasts as demonstrated by in vitro incubation techniques. Using such methodology, the ratio of intracellular to extracellular concentration was >30 after one hour incubation. In vivo studies suggest that concentration in phagocytes may contribute to drug distribution to inflamed tissues.

Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section of the package insert for azithromycin for injection.

Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms

Staphylococcus aureus

Streptococcus pneumoniae

NOTE: Azithromycin demonstrates cross-resistance with erythromycin-resistant gram-positive strains. Most strains of Enterococcus faecalis and methicillin-resistant staphylococci are resistant to azithromycin.

Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms

Haemophilus influenzae

Moraxella catarrhalis

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

“Other” microorganisms

Chlamydia pneumoniae

Chlamydia trachomatis

Legionella pneumophila

Mycoplasma hominis

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

Beta-lactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.

Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section of the package insert for azithromycin tablets and azithromycin for oral suspension.

Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms

Staphylococcus aureus

Streptococcus agalactiae

Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pyogenes

Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms

Haemophilus ducreyi

Haemophilus influenzae

Moraxella catarrhalis

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

“Other” microorganisms

Chlamydia pneumoniae

Chlamydia trachomatis

Mycoplasma pneumonia

Beta-lactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.

The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.

At least 90% of the following microorganisms exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoints for azithromycin. However, the safety and effectiveness of azithromycin in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.

Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms

Streptococci (Groups C, F, G)

Viridans group streptococci

Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms

Bordetella pertussis

Anaerobic microorganisms

Peptostreptococcus species

Prevotella bivia

“Other” microorganisms

Ureaplasma urealyticum

Beta-lactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.

Susceptibility Testing Methods:

When available, the results of in vitro susceptibility test results for antimicrobial drugs used in resident hospitals should be provided to the physician as periodic reports which describe the susceptibility profile of nosocomial and community-acquired pathogens. These reports may differ from susceptibility data obtained from outpatient use, but could aid the physician in selecting the most effective antimicrobial.

Dilution techniques:

Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized procedure. Standardized procedures are based on a dilution method1,3 (broth or agar) or equivalent with standardized inoculum concentrations and standardized concentrations of azithromycin powder. The MIC values should be interpreted according to criteria provided in Table 1.

Diffusion techniques:

Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. Once such standardized procedure2,3 requires the use of standardized inoculum concentrations. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 15 mcg azithromycin to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to azithromycin. The disk diffusion interpretive criteria are provided in Table 1.

Table 1. Susceptibility Interpretive Criteria for AzithromycinSusceptibility Test Result Interpretive Criteria
Pathogen	Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL)			Disk Diffusion(zone diameters in mm)
	S	I	Ra	S	I	Ra
Haemophilus spp.	≤4	--	--	≥12	--	--
Staphylococcus aureus	≤2	4	≥8	≥18	14-17	≤13
Streptococci including S. pneumoniae b	≤0.05	1	≥2	≥18	14-17	≤13
aThe current absence of data on resistant strains precludes defining any category other than “susceptible”. If strains yield MIC results other than susceptible, they should be submitted to a reference laboratory for further testing. bSusceptibility of streptococci including S. pneumoniae to azithromycin and other macrolides can be predicted by testing erythromycin.

No interpretive criteria have been established for testing Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This species is not usually tested.

A report of “susceptible” indicates that the pathogen is likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound reaches the concentrations usually achievable. A report of “intermediate” indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone which prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of “resistant” indicates that the pathogen is not likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound reaches the concentrations usually achievable; other therapy should be selected.

Quality Control:

Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of quality control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of the test procedures. Standard azithromycin powder should provide the following range of values noted in Table 2. Quality control microorganisms are specific strains of organisms with intrinsic biological properties. QC strains are very stable strains which will give a standard and repeatable susceptibility pattern. The specific strains used for microbiological quality control are not clinically significant.

Table 2. Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Azithromycin
QC Strain	Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL)	Disk Diffusion(zone diameters in mm)
Haemophilus influenzae
ATCC 49247	1 – 4	13-21
Staphylococcus aureus
ATCC 29213	0.5-2
Staphylococcus aureus
ATCC 25923		21-26
Streptococcus pneumoniae
ATCC 49619	0.06-0.25	19-25

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Azithromycin for injection is indicated for the treatment of patients with infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below. As recommended dosages, durations of therapy, and applicable patient populations vary among these infections, please see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for dosing recommendations.

Community-acquired pneumonia due to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Legionella pneumophila, Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus,or Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients who require initial intravenous therapy.

Pelvic inflammatory disease due to Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae,or Mycoplasma hominisin patients who require initial intravenous therapy. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with azithromycin for injection.

Azithromycin for injection should be followed by azithromycin by the oral route as required. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

Appropriate culture and susceptibility tests should be performed before treatment to determine the causative microorganism and its susceptibility to azithromycin. Therapy with azithromycin may be initiated before results of these tests are known; once the results become available, antimicrobial therapy should be adjusted accordingly.

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of azithromycin and other antibacterial drugs, azithromycin should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide antibiotic.

WARNINGS

Serious allergic reactions, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and dermatologic reactions including Stevens Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported rarely in patients on azithromycin therapy. Although rare, fatalities have been reported. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS.) Despite initially successful symptomatic treatment of the allergic symptoms, when symptomatic therapy was discontinued, the allergic symptoms recurred soon thereafter in some patients without further azithromycin exposure.These patients required prolonged periods of observation and symptomatic treatment. The relationship of these episodes to the long tissue half-life of azithromycin and subsequent prolonged exposure to antigen is unknown at present.

If an allergic reaction occurs, the drug should be discontinued and appropriate therapy should be instituted. Physicians should be aware that reappearance of the allergic symptoms may occur when symptomatic therapy is discontinued.

Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including azithromycin for injection, and may range in everity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.

C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.

If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

PRECAUTIONS

General

Because azithromycin is principally eliminated via the liver, caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to patients with impaired hepatic function. Due to the limited data in subjects with GFR <10 mL/min, caution should be exercised when prescribing azithromycin in these patients. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Renal Insufficiency.)

Azithromycin for injection should be reconstituted and diluted as directed and administered as an intravenous infusion over not less than 60 minutes. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

Local I.V. site reactions have been reported with the intravenous administration of azithromycin. The incidence and severity of these reactions were the same when 500 mg azithromycin were given over 1 hour (2 mg/mL as 250 mL infusion) or over 3 hours (1 mg/mL as 500 mL infusion). (See ADVERSE REACTIONS.) All volunteers who received infusate concentrations above 2 mg/mL experienced local I.V. site reactions and, therefore, higher concentrations should be avoided.

Prolonged cardiac repolarization and QT interval, imparting a risk of developing cardiac arrhythmia and torsades de pointes, have been seen in treatment with other macrolides. A similar effect with azithromycin cannot be completely ruled out in patients at increased risk for prolonged cardiac repolarization.

Exacerbation of symptoms of myasthenia gravis and new onset of myasthenic syndrome have been reported in patients receiving azithromycin therapy.

Prescribing azithromycin in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

Information for Patients

Patients should be directed to discontinue azithromycin and contact a physician if any signs of an allergic reaction occur.

Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including azithromycin should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When azithromycin is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of the therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by azithromycin or other antibacterial drugs in the future.

Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration of nelfinavir at steady-state with a single oral dose of azithromycin resulted in increased azithromycin serum concentrations. Although a dose adjustment of azithromycin is not recommended when administered in combination with nelfinavir, close monitoring for known side effects of azithromycin, such as liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment, is warranted. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS.)

Although, in a study of 22 healthy men, a 5-day course of azithromycin did not affect the prothrombin time from a subsequently administered dose of warfarin, spontaneous post-marketing reports suggest that concomitant administration of azithromycin may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants. Prothrombin times should be carefully monitored while patients are receiving azithromycin and oral anticoagulants concomitantly.

Drug interaction studies were performed with azithromycin and other drugs likely to be co-administered. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Drug-Drug Interactions.) When used in therapeutic doses, azithromycin had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, carbamazepine, cetirizine, didanosine, efavirenz, fluconazole, indinavir, midazolam, rifabutin, sildenafil, theophylline (intravenous and oral), triazolam, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole or zidovudine. Co-administration with efavirenz or fluconazole had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin. No dosage adjustment of either drug is recommended when azithromycin is coadministered with any of these agents.

Interactions with the drugs listed below have not been reported in clinical trials with azithromycin; however, no specific drug interaction studies have been performed to evaluate potential drug-drug interaction. Nonetheless, they have been observed with macrolide products. Until further data are developed regarding drug interactions when azithromycin and these drugs are used concomitantly, careful monitoring of patients is advised:

Digoxin - elevated digoxin concentrations.

Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine - acute ergot toxicity characterized by severe peripheral vasospasm and dysesthesia.

Terfenadine, cyclosporine, hexobarbital and phenytoin - elevated concentrations.

Laboratory Test Interactions

There are no reported laboratory test interactions.

Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis and Impairment of Fertility

Long-term studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential. Azithromycin has shown no mutagenic potential in standard laboratory tests: mouse lymphoma assay, human lymphocyte clastogenic assay, and mouse bone marrow clastogenic assay. No evidence of impaired fertility due to azithromycin was found.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category B: Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and mice at doses up to moderately maternally toxic dose concentrations (i.e., 200 mg/kg/day by the oral route). These doses, based on a mg/m2 basis, are estimated to be 4 and 2 times, respectively, the human daily dose of 500 mg by the oral route. In the animal studies, no evidence of harm to the fetus due to azithromycin was found. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether azithromycin is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of azithromycin for injection in children or adolescents under 16 years have not been established. In controlled clinical studies, azithromycin has been administered to pediatric patients (age 6 months to 16 years) by the oral route. For information regarding the use of azithromycin for oral suspension in the treatment of pediatric patients, refer to the INDICATIONS AND USAGE and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION sections of the prescribing information for azithromycin for oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL bottles.

Geriatric Use

Pharmacokinetic studies with intravenous azithromycin have not been performed in older volunteers. Pharmacokinetics of azithromycin following oral administration in older volunteers (65 to 85 years old) were similar to those in younger volunteers (18 to 40 years old) for the 5-day therapeutic regimen.

In multiple-dose clinical trials of intravenous azithromycin in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia, 45% of patients (188/414) were at least 65 years of age and 22% of patients (91/414) were at least 75 years of age. No overall differences in safety were observed between these subjects and younger subjects in terms of adverse events, laboratory abnormalities, and discontinuations. Similar decreases in clinical response were noted in azithromycin- and comparator-treated patients with increasing age.

Azithromycin for injection contains 114 mg (4.96 mEq) of sodium per vial. At the usual recommended doses, patients would receive 114 mg (4.96 mEq) of sodium. The geriatric population may respond with a blunted natriuresis to salt loading. The total sodium content from dietary and non-dietary sources may be clinically important with regard to such diseases as congestive heart failure.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

In clinical trials of intravenous azithromycin for community-acquired pneumonia, in which 2 to 5 I.V. doses were given, most of the reported side effects were mild to moderate in severity and were reversible upon discontinuation of the drug. The majority of patients in these trials had one or more comorbid diseases and were receiving concomitant medications. Approximately 1.2% of the patients discontinued intravenous azithromycin therapy, and a total of 2.4% discontinued azithromycin therapy by either the intravenous or oral route because of clinical or laboratory side effects.

In clinical trials conducted in patients with pelvic inflammatory disease, in which 1 to 2 I.V. doses were given, 2% of women who received monotherapy with azithromycin and 4% who received azithromycin plus metronidazole discontinued therapy due to clinical side effects.

Clinical side effects leading to discontinuations from these studies were most commonly gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), and rashes; laboratory side effects leading to discontinuation were increases in transaminase levels and/or alkaline phosphatase levels.

Clinical

Overall, the most common side effects associated with treatment in adult patients who received I.V./P.O. azithromycin in studies of community-acquired pneumonia were related to the gastrointestinal system with diarrhea/loose stools (4.3%), nausea (3.9%), abdominal pain (2.7%), and vomiting (1.4%) being the most frequently reported. Approximately 12% of patients experienced a side effect related to the intravenous infusion; most common were pain at the injection site (6.5%) and local inflammation (3.1%).

The most common side effects associated with treatment in adult women who received I.V./P.O. azithromycin in studies of pelvic inflammatory disease were related to the gastrointestinal system. Diarrhea (8.5%) and nausea (6.6%) were most commonly reported, followed by vaginitis (2.8%), abdominal pain (1.9%), anorexia (1.9%), rash and pruritus (1.9%). When azithromycin was co-administered with metronidazole in these studies, a higher proportion of women experienced side effects of nausea (10.3%), abdominal pain (3.7%), vomiting (2.8%), application site reaction, stomatitis, dizziness, or dyspnea (all at 1.9%).

No other side effects occurred in patients on the multiple dose I.V./P.O. regimen of azithromycin in these studies with a frequency greater than 1%.

Side effects that occurred with a frequency of 1% or less included the following:

Gastrointestinal: dyspepsia, flatulence, mucositis, oral moniliasis, and gastritis

Nervous System: headache, somnolence

Allergic: bronchospasm

Special Senses: taste perversion

Post-Marketing Experience

Adverse events reported with azithromycin during the post-marketing period in adult and/or pediatric patients for which a causal relationship may not be established include:

Allergic: Arthralgia, edema, urticaria and angioedema.

Cardiovascular: Arrhythmias including ventricular tachycardia and hypotension. There have been rare reports of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.

Gastrointestinal: Anorexia, constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence, vomiting/diarrhea rarely resulting in dehydration, pseudomembranous colitis, pancreatitis, oral candidiasis and rare reports of tongue discoloration.

General: Asthenia, paresthesia, fatigue, malaise and anaphylaxis (rarely fatal).

Genitourinary: Interstitial nephritis and acute renal failure and vaginitis.

Hematopoietic: Thrombocytopenia.

Liver/Biliary: Abnormal liver function including hepatitis and cholestatic jaundice, as well as rare cases of hepatic necrosis and hepatic failure, some of which have resulted in death.

Nervous System: Convulsions, dizziness/vertigo, headache, somnolence, hyperactivity, nervousness, agitation and syncope.

Psychiatric: Aggressive reaction and anxiety.

Skin/Appendages: Pruritus, rarely serious skin reactions including erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Special Senses: Hearing disturbances including hearing loss, deafness and/or tinnitus and rare reports of taste/smell perversion and/or loss.

Laboratory Abnormalities

Significant abnormalities (irrespective of drug relationship) occurring during the clinical trials were reported as follows: with an incidence of 4 to 6%, elevated ALT (SGPT), AST (SGOT), creatinine with an incidence of 1 to 3%, elevated LDH, bilirubin with an incidence of less than 1%, leukopenia, neutropenia, decreased platelet count, and elevated serum alkaline phosphatase.

When follow-up was provided, changes in laboratory tests appeared to be reversible.

In multiple-dose clinical trials involving more than 750 patients treated with azithromycin (I.V./P.O.), less than 2% of patients discontinued azithromycin therapy because of treatment-related liver enzyme abnormalities.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

(See INDICATIONS AND USAGE and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY.)

The recommended dose of azithromycin for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250 mg tablets to complete a 7 to 10 day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response.

The recommended dose of azithromycin for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7 day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with azithromycin.

Renal Insufficiency

No dosage adjustment is recommended for subjects with renal impairment (GFR ≤80 mL/min). The mean AUC0-120 was similar in subjects with GFR 10 to 80 mL/min compared to subjects with normal renal function, whereas it increased 35% in subjects with GFR <10 mL/min compared to subjects with normal renal function. Caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to subjects with severe renal impairment. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Renal Insufficiency.)

Hepatic Insufficiency

The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in subjects with hepatic impairment have not been established. No dose adjustment recommendations can be made in patients with impaired hepatic function (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Hepatic Insufficiency.)

No dosage adjustment is recommended based on age or gender. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations.)

The infusate concentration and rate of infusion for azithromycin for injection should be either 1 mg/mL over 3 hours or 2 mg/mL over 1 hour. Azithromycin for injection should not be given as a bolus or as an intramuscular injection.

Preparation of the solution for intravenous administration is as follows:

Reconstitution

Prepare the initial solution of azithromycin for injection by adding 4.8 mL of Sterile Water For Injection to the 500 mg vial and shaking the vial until all of the drug is dissolved. Since azithromycin for injection is supplied under vacuum, it is recommended that a standard 5 mL (non-automated) syringe be used to ensure that the exact amount of 4.8 mL of Sterile Water is dispensed. Each mL of reconstituted solution contains 100 mg azithromycin. Reconstituted solution is stable for 24 hours when stored below 30°C or 86°F.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter prior to administration. If particulate matter is evident in reconstituted fluids, the drug solution should be discarded.

Dilute this solution further prior to administration as instructed below.

Dilution

To provide azithromycin over a concentration range of 1 to 2 mg/mL, transfer 5 mL of the 100 mg/mL azithromycin solution into the appropriate amount of any of the diluents listed below:

Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride)

1/2 Normal saline (0.45% sodium chloride)

5% Dextrose in water

Lactated Ringer’s solution

5% Dextrose in 1/2 normal saline (0.45% sodium chloride) with 20 mEq KCl 5% dextrose in Lactated Ringer’s solution

5% Dextrose in 1/3 normal saline (0.3% sodium chloride)

5% Dextrose in 1/2 normal saline (0.45% sodium chloride)

Normosol®-M in 5% dextrose

Normosol®-R in 5% dextrose

• Final Infusion Solution Concentration (mg/mL): Amount of Diluent (mL)
• 1 mg/mL: 500 mL
• 2 mg/mL: 250 mL

It is recommended that a 500 mg dose of azithromycin for injection, diluted as above, be infused over a period of not less than 60 minutes.

Azithromycin for injection should not be given as a bolus or as an intramuscular injection.

Other intravenous substances, additives, or medications should not be added to azithromycin for injection, or infused simultaneously through the same intravenous line.

Storage

When diluted according to the instructions (1 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL), azithromycin for injection is stable for 24 hours at or below room temperature (30°C or 86°F), or for 7 days if stored under refrigeration (5°C or 41°F).

HOW SUPPLIED

Azithromycin for injection is supplied in lyophilized form under a vacuum in a 10 mL vial (NDC: 60505-6076-4) equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin for intravenous administration. Each vial also contains 384.5 mg of citric acid and sodium hydroxide.

These are packaged as follows:

10 vials of 500 mg NDC: 60505-6076-4

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

*Normosol®-M in 5% dextrose and Normosol®-R in 5% dextrose are the trademarks of Hospira.

CLINICAL STUDIES

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

In a controlled study of community-acquired pneumonia performed in the U.S., azithromycin (500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for 2 to 5 days, followed by 500 mg/day by the oral route to complete 7 to 10 days therapy) was compared to cefuroxime (2250 mg/day in three divided doses by the intravenous route for 2 to 5 days followed by 1000 mg/day in two divided doses by the oral route to complete 7 to 10 days therapy), with or without erythromycin. For the 291 patients who were evaluable for clinical efficacy, the clinical outcome rates, i.e., cure, improved, and success (cure + improved) among the 277 patients seen at 10 to 14 days post-therapy were as follows:

Clinical Outcome	Azithromycin	Comparator
Cure	46%	44%
Improved	32%	30%
Success (Cure + Improved)	78%	74%

In a separate, uncontrolled clinical and microbiological trial performed in the U. S., 94 patients with community-acquired pneumonia who received azithromycin in the same regimen were evaluable for clinical efficacy. The clinical outcome rates, i.e., cure, improved, and success (cure + improved) among the 84 patients seen at 10 to 14 days post-therapy were as follows:

• Clinical Outcome: Azithromycin
• Cure: 60%
• Improved: 29%
• Success (Cure + Improved): 89%

Microbiological determinations in both trials were made at the pre-treatment visit and, where applicable, were reassessed at later visits. Serological testing was done on baseline and final visit specimens. The following combined presumptive bacteriological eradication rates were obtained from the evaluable groups:

Combined Bacteriological Eradication Rates for Azithromycin:

(at last completed visit)	Azithromycin
S. pneumoniae	64/67 (96%) a
H. influenzae	41/43 (95%)
M. catarrhalis	9/10
S. aureus	9/10
aNineteen of twenty-four patients (79%) with positive blood cultures for S. pneumoniae were cured (intent to treat analysis) with eradication of the pathogen.

The presumed bacteriological outcomes at 10 to 14 days post-therapy for patients treated with azithromycin with evidence (serology and/or culture) of atypical pathogens for both trials were as follows:

Evidence of Infection	Total	Cure	Improved	Cure + Improved
Mycoplasma pneumoniae	18	11 (61%)	5 (28%)	16 (89%)
Chlamydia pneumoniae	34	15 (44%)	13 (38%)	28 (82%)
Legionella pneumophila	16	5 (31%)	8 (50%)	13 (81%)

ANIMAL TOXICOLOGY

Phospholipidosis (intracellular phospholipid accumulation) has been observed in some tissues of mice, rats, and dogs given multiple doses of azithromycin. It has been demonstrated in numerous organ systems (e.g., eye, dorsal root ganglia, liver, gallbladder, kidney, spleen, and pancreas) in dogs treated with azithromycin at doses which, expressed on the basis of mg/m2, are approximately equal to the recommended adult human dose, and in rats treated at doses approximately one-sixth of the recommended adult human dose. This effect has been shown to be reversible after cessation of azithromycin treatment. Phospholipidosis has been observed to a similar extent in the tissues of neonatal rats and dogs given daily doses of azithromycin ranging from 10 days to 30 days. Based on the pharmacokinetic data, phospholipidosis has been seen in the rat (30 mg/kg dose) at observed Cmax value of 1.3 mcg/mL (six times greater than the observed Cmax of 0.216 mcg/mL at the pediatric dose of 10 mg/kg). Similarly, it has been shown in the dog (10 mg/kg dose) at observed Cmax value of 1.5 mcg/mL (seven times greater than the observed same Cmax and drug dose in the studied pediatric population). On a mg/m2 basis, 30 mg/kg dose in the neonatal rat (135 mg/m2) and 10 mg/kg dose in the neonatal dog (79 mg/m2) are approximately 0.45 and 0.3 times, respectively, the recommended dose in the pediatric patients with an average body weight of 25 kg. Phospholipidosis, similar to that seen in the adult animals, is reversible after cessation of azithromycin treatment. The significance of these findings for animals and for humans is unknown.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

Rx only

Manufactured for:

APOTEX CORP.

Weston,

FL 33326

Manufactured by:

Gland Pharma Ltd, Hyderabad 500 043

India

ML # 103 / AP / RR / 97 / F / R

April 2010

PSGG0106-00

REFERENCES

1. National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards, Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria That Grow Aerobically– Fifth Edition. Approved Standard NCCLS Document M7-A5, Vol. 20, No. 2 (ISBN 1-56238-394-9). NCCLS, 940 West Valley Road, Suite 1400, Wayne, PA 19087-1898, January, 2000.
2. National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards, P erformance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Susceptibility Tests- Seventh Edition. Approved Standard NCCLS Document M2-A7, Vol. 20, No. 1 (ISBN 1-56238-393-0). NCCLS, 940 West Valley Road, Suite 1400, Wayne, PA 19087-1898, January, 2000.
3. National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing– Eleventh Informational Supplement. NCCLS Document M100-S11, Vol. 21, No. 1 (ISBN 1-56238-426-0). NCCLS, 940 West Valley Road, Suite 1400, Wayne, PA 19087-1898, January, 2001.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

Representative sample of labeling (see the HOW SUPPLIED section for complete listing):

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 500 mg*/vial

APOTEX CORP. NDC: 60505-6076-4

AZITHROMYCIN for Injection

equivalent to 500 mg*/vial

Sterile, Rx only

10 Single Dose Vials

For Intravenous Infusion Only

Carton Label

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

Representative sample of labeling (see the HOW SUPPLIED section for complete listing):

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 500 mg*/vial

APOTEX CORP. NDC: 60505-6076-4

AZITHROMYCIN for Injection

equivalent to 500 mg*/vial

Sterile, Rx only

10 Single Dose Vials

For Intravenous Infusion Only

Label

INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE

AZITHROMYCIN 
azithromycin for injection injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution injection

Product Information
Product Type	HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG	Item Code (Source)	NDC: 60505-6076
Route of Administration	INTRAVENOUS

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient Name	Basis of Strength	Strength
Azithromycin Monohydrate (UNII: JTE4MNN1MD) (Azithromycin Anhydrous - UNII:J2KLZ20U1M)	Azithromycin Anhydrous	500 mg  in 10 mL

Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient Name	Strength
Citric Acid Monohydrate (UNII: 2968PHW8QP)
SODIUM HYDROXIDE (UNII: 55X04QC32I)

Packaging
#	Item Code	Package Description	Marketing Start Date	Marketing End Date
1	NDC: 60505-6076-4	10 in 1 CARTON	04/25/2010
1		10 mL in 1 VIAL; Type 0: Not a Combination Product

Marketing Information
Marketing Category	Application Number or Monograph Citation	Marketing Start Date	Marketing End Date
ANDA	ANDA065501	04/25/2010

Labeler - APOTEX CORP. (845263701)

Registrant - Gland Pharma Limited (918601238)

Establishment
Name	Address	ID/FEI	Business Operations
Gland Pharma Limited		918601238	analysis(60505-6076) , manufacture(60505-6076)