Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., Usa
Manufacturer Details
There are currently no manufacturer details available.
Share This Page
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., Usa Drugs
-
Frovatriptan Succinate
Dosing Information
The recommended dose is a single tablet of frovatriptan succinate (frovatriptan 2.5 mg) taken orally with fluids.
If the migraine recurs after initial relief, a second tablet may be taken, providing there is an interval of at least 2 hours between doses. The total daily dose of frovatriptan succinate should not exceed 3 tablets (3 x 2.5 mg per 24 hour period).
There is no evidence that a second dose of frovatriptan succinate is effective in patients who do not respond to a first dose of the drug for the same headache.
The safety of treating an average of more than 4 migraine attacks in a 30-day period has not been established.
-
Drospirenone And Ethinyl Estradiol Kit
2.1 How to Take Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
Take one tablet by mouth at the same time every day. The failure rate may increase when pills are missed or taken incorrectly.
To achieve maximum contraceptive, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets must be taken exactly as directed, in the order directed on the blister pack. Single missed pills should be taken as soon as remembered.
2.2 How to Start Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
Instruct the patient to begin taking drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets either on the first day of her menstrual period (Day 1 Start) or on the first Sunday after the onset of her menstrual period (Sunday Start).
Day 1 Start
During the first cycle of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets use, instruct the patient to take one brown to reddish brown drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets daily, beginning on Day 1 of her menstrual cycle. (The first day of menstruation is Day 1.) She should take one brown to reddish brown drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets daily for 24 consecutive days, followed by one white to off-white inert tablet daily on Days 25 through 28. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be taken in the order directed on the package at the same time each day, preferably after the evening meal or at bedtime with some liquid, as needed. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets can be taken without regard to meals. If drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets are first taken later than the first day of the menstrual cycle, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should not be considered effective as a contraceptive until after the first 7 consecutive days of product administration. Instruct the patient to use a non-hormonal contraceptive as back-up during the first 7 days. The possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of medication should be considered.
Sunday Start
During the first cycle of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets use, instruct the patient to take brown o reddish brown drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets daily, beginning on the first Sunday after the onset of her menstrual period. She should take one brown to reddish brown drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets daily for 24 consecutive days, followed by one white to off-white inert tablet daily on Days 25 through 28. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be taken in the order directed on the package at the same time each day, preferably after the evening meal or at bedtime with some liquid, as needed. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets can be taken without regard to meals. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should not be considered effective as a contraceptive until after the first 7 consecutive days of product administration. Instruct the patient to use a non-hormonal contraceptive as back-up during the first 7 days. The possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of medication should be considered.
The patient should begin her next and all subsequent 28-day regimens of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets on the same day of the week that she began her first regimen, following the same schedule. She should begin taking her brown to reddish brown tablets on the next day after ingestion of the last white to off-white tablet, regardless of whether or not a menstrual period has occurred or is still in progress. Anytime a subsequent cycle of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets is started later than the day following administration of the last white to off-white tablet, the patient should use another method of contraception until she has taken a brown to reddish brown drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablet daily for seven consecutive days.
When switching from a different birth control pill
When switching from another birth control pill, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be started on the same day that a new pack of the previous oral contraceptive would have been started.
When switching from a method other than a birth control pill
When switching from a transdermal patch or vaginal ring, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be started when the next application would have been due. When switching from an injection, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be started when the next dose would have been due. When switching from an intrauterine contraceptive or an implant, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be started on the day of removal.Withdrawal bleeding usually occurs within 3 days following the last brown to reddish brown tablet. If spotting or breakthrough bleeding occurs while taking drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets, instruct the patient to continue taking drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets by the regimen described above. Counsel her that this type of bleeding is usually transient and without significance; however, advise her that if the bleeding is persistent or prolonged, she should consult her healthcare provider.
Although the occurrence of pregnancy is low if drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets is taken according to directions, if withdrawal bleeding does not occur, consider the possibility of pregnancy. If the patient has not adhered to the prescribed dosing schedule (missed one or more active tablets or started taking them on a day later than she should have), consider the possibility of pregnancy at the time of the first missed period and take appropriate diagnostic measures. If the patient has adhered to the prescribed regimen and misses two consecutive periods, rule out pregnancy. Discontinue drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets if pregnancy is confirmed.
The risk of pregnancy increases with each active brown to reddish brown tablet missed. For additional patient instructions regarding missed pills, see the "WHAT TO DO IF YOU MISS PILLS" section in the FDA Approved Patient Labeling which follows. If breakthrough bleeding occurs following missed tablets, it will usually be transient and of no consequence. If the patient misses one or more white to off-white tablets, she should still be protected against pregnancy provided she begins taking a new cycle of brown to reddish brown tablets on the proper day.
For postpartum women who do not breastfeed or after a second trimester abortion, start drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets no earlier than 4 weeks postpartum due to the increased risk of thromboembolism. If the patient starts on drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets postpartum and has not yet had a period, evaluate for possible pregnancy, and instruct her to use an additional method of contraception until she has taken drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets for 7 consecutive days.
2.3 Advice in Case of Gastrointestinal Disturbances
In case of severe vomiting or diarrhea, absorption may not be complete and additional contraceptive measures should be taken. If vomiting occurs within 3–4 hours after tablet-taking, this can be regarded as a missed tablet.
-
Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol Kit
Although the occurrence of pregnancy is unlikely if levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP are taken according to directions, if withdrawal bleeding does not occur while taking white (inactive) tablets, the possibility of pregnancy must be considered. Appropriate diagnostic measures to rule out pregnancy should be taken at the time of any missed menstrual period. Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be discontinued if pregnancy is confirmed.
The dosage of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP is one blue (active) tablet daily for 84 consecutive days, followed by 7 days of white (inert) tablets. To achieve maximum contraceptive effectiveness, levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP must be taken exactly as directed and at intervals not exceeding 24 hours. Ideally, the tablets should be taken at the same time of the day on each day of active treatment. The tablets should not be removed from the protective blister packaging and outer dispenser to avoid damage to the product. The dispenser should be kept in the foil pouch until dispensed to the patient.
During the first cycle of medication, the patient is instructed to begin taking levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP on the first Sunday after the onset of menstruation. If menstruation begins on a Sunday, the first tablet (blue) is taken that day. One blue tablet should be taken daily for 84 consecutive days, followed by 7 days on which a white (inert) tablet is taken. Withdrawal bleeding should occur during the 7 days following discontinuation of blue active tablets. During the first cycle, contraceptive reliance should not be placed on levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP until a blue (active) tablet has been taken daily for 7 consecutive days and a non-hormonal backup method of birth control (such as condoms or spermicide) should be used during those 7 days. The possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of medication should be considered.
The patient begins her next and all subsequent 91-day courses of tablets without interruption on the same day of the week (Sunday) on which she began her first course, following the same schedule: 84 days on which blue tablets are taken followed by 7 days on which white tablets are taken. If in any cycle the patient starts tablets later than the proper day, she should protect herself against pregnancy by using a non-hormonal backup method of birth control until she has taken a blue tablet daily for 7 consecutive days.
If spotting or breakthrough bleeding occurs, the patient is instructed to continue on the same regimen. This type of bleeding may be transient and without significance; however, if the bleeding is persistent or prolonged, the patient is advised to consult her healthcare provider.
For patient instructions regarding missed pills, see the “WHAT TO DO IF YOU MISS PILLS” section in the DETAILED PATIENT LABELING. Any time the patient misses two or more blue tablets, she should also use another method of non-hormonal back-up contraception until she has taken a blue tablet daily for seven consecutive days. If the patient misses one or more white tablets, she is still protected against pregnancy provided she begins taking blue tablets again on the proper day. The possibility of ovulation increases with each successive day that scheduled blue tablets are missed. The risk of pregnancy increases with each active (blue) tablet missed.
In the nonlactating mother, levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP may be initiated no earlier than day 28 postpartum, for contraception due to the increased risk for thromboembolism. When the tablets are administered in the postpartum period, the increased risk of thromboembolic disease associated with the postpartum period must be considered (See CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGSand PRECAUTIONSconcerning thromboembolic disease). The patient should be advised to use a nonhormonal back-up method for the first 7 days of tablet-taking. However, if intercourse has already occurred, the possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of medication should be considered. Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP may be initiated immediately after a first-trimester abortion; if the patient starts levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP immediately, additional contraceptive measures are not needed.
-
Norethindrone Acetate And Ethinyl Estradiol
Use of estrogen-alone, or in combination with a progestin, should be with the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Postmenopausal women should be re-evaluated periodically as clinically appropriate to determine if treatment is still necessary.
2.1 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms due to Menopause
Norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol tablets therapy consists of a single tablet to be taken orally once daily.
2.2 Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol tablets therapy consists of a single tablet taken orally once daily.
-
Chewable Aspirin
Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of nabumetone tablets and other treatment options before deciding to use nabumetone. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals (see WARNINGS).
After observing the response to initial therapy with nabumetone tablets, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs.
Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis:
The recommended starting dose is 1,000 mg taken as a single dose with or without food. Some patients may obtain more symptomatic relief from 1,500 mg to 2,000 mg per day. Nabumetone tablets can be given in either asingl or twice-daily dose. Dosages greater than 2,000 mg per day have not been studied. The lowest effective dose should be used for chronic treatment (see WARNINGS: Renal Effects: ). Patients weighing under 50 kg may be less likely to require dosages beyond 1,000 mg; therefore, after observing the response to initial therapy, the dose should be adjusted to meet individual patients' requirements.
-
Zonisamide
Zonisamide capsules USP are recommended as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of partial seizures in adults. Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients below the age of 16 have not been established. Zonisamide capsules USP should be administered once or twice daily, using 25 mg or 100 mg capsules. Zonisamide capsules USP are given orally and can be taken with or without food. Capsules should be swallowed whole.
Adults over Age 16:
The prescriber should be aware that, because of the long half-life of zonisamide, up to two weeks may be required to achieve steady state levels upon reaching a stable dose or following dosage adjustment. Although the regimen described below is one that has been shown to be tolerated, the prescriber may wish to prolong the duration of treatment at the lower doses in order to fully assess the effects of zonisamide at steady state, noting that many of the side effects of zonisamide are more frequent at doses of 300 mg per day and above. Although there is some evidence of greater response at doses above 100 to 200 mg/day, the increase appears small and formal dose-response studies have not been conducted.
The initial dose of zonisamide should be 100 mg daily. After two weeks, the dose may be increased to 200 mg/day for at least two weeks. It can be increased to 300 mg/day and 400 mg/day, with the dose stable for at least two weeks to achieve steady state at each level. Evidence from controlled trials suggests that zonisamide doses of 100 to 600 mg/day are effective, but there is no suggestion of increasing response above 400 mg/day (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Studies subsection). There is little experience with doses greater than 600 mg/day.
Patients with Renal or Hepatic Disease:
Because zonisamide is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, patients with renal or hepatic disease should be treated with caution, and might require slower titration and more frequent monitoring (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and PRECAUTIONS).
-
Betamethasone Dipropionate
Apply a thin film of betamethasone dipropionate cream, 0.5% (augmented) to the affected skin areas once or twice daily. Therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved. Betamethasone dipropionate cream, 0.5% (augmented)is a high-potency corticosteroid. Treatment with betamethasone dipropionate cream, 0.5% (augmented)should not exceed 50 g per week because of the potential for the drug to suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
Betamethasone dipropionate cream, 0.5% (augmented)should not be used with occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician.
Betamethasone dipropionate cream, 0.5% (augmented)is for topical use only. It is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.
Avoid use on the face, groin, or axillae, or if skin atrophy is present at the treatment site.
-
Enalapril Maleate And Hydrochlorothiazide
The daily dose should be taken at the same time each day with food or a milky drink. In the event of vomiting within 1 hour after dosing, a repeat dose should be taken.
Atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride pediatric tablets may be crushed and mixed with condensed milk just prior to administration to patients who may have difficulty swallowing tablets.
2.1 Prevention of Malaria
Start prophylactic treatment withatovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride tablets 1 or 2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area and continue daily during the stay and for 7 days after return.
Adults: One atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride tablet(adult strength = 250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil hydrochloride) per day.
Pediatric Patients: The dosage for prevention of malaria in pediatric patients is based upon body weight (Table 1).
Table 1. Dosage for Prevention of Malaria in Pediatric Patients
Weight (kg)
Atovaquone/ Proguanil HCl Total Daily Dose
Dosage Regimen
11-20
62.5 mg/25 mg
1 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Pediatric Tablet daily
21-30
125 mg/50 mg
2 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Pediatric Tablets as a single daily dose
31-40
187.5 mg/75 mg
3 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Pediatric Tablets as a single daily dose
>40
250 mg/100 mg
1 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Tablet (adult strength) as a single daily dose
2.2 Treatment of Acute Malaria
Adults: Fouratovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride tablets(adult strength; total daily dose 1 g atovaquone/400 mg proguanil hydrochloride) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days.
Pediatric Patients: The dosage for treatment of acute malaria in pediatric patients is based upon body weight (Table 2).
Table 2. Dosage for Treatment of Acute Malaria in Pediatric Patients
Weight (kg)
Atovaquone/ Proguanil HCl Total Daily Dose
Dosage Regimen
5-8
125 mg/50 mg
2 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Pediatric Tablets daily for 3 consecutive days
9-10
187.5 mg/75 mg
3 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Pediatric Tablets daily for 3 consecutive days
11-20
250 mg/100 mg
1 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Tablet (adult strength) daily for 3 consecutive days
21-30
500 mg/200 mg
2 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days
31-40
750 mg/300 mg
3 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days
>40
1 g/400 mg
4 atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride Tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days
2.3 Renal Impairment
Do not useatovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride tablets for malaria prophylaxis in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) [See Contraindications (4.2)]. Use with caution for the treatment of malaria in patients with severe renal impairment, only if the benefits of the 3 day treatment regimen outweigh the potential risks associated with increased drug exposure. No dosage adjustments are needed in patients with mild (creatinine clearance 50 to 80 mL/min) or moderate (creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min) renal impairment. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).
-
Alclometasone Dipropionate
Apply a thin film of alclometasone dipropionate cream USP or alclometasone dipropionate ointment USP to the affected skin areas 2 or 3 times daily; massage gently until the medication disappears.
Alclometasone dipropionate cream and ointment may be used in pediatric patients 1 year of age or older. Safety and effectiveness of alclometasone dipropionate cream or ointment in pediatric patients for more than 3 weeks of use have not been established. Use in pediatric patients under 1 year of age is not recommended.
As with other corticosteroids, therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks, reassessment of diagnosis may be necessary.
Alclometasone dipropionate cream or ointment should not be used with occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician. Alclometasone dipropionate cream or ointment should not be applied in the diaper area if the child still requires diapers or plastic pants as these garments may constitute occlusive dressing.
Geriatric Use: In studies where geriatric patients (65 years of age or older, see PRECAUTIONS) have been treated with alclometasone dipropionate cream or ointment, safety did not differ from that in younger patients; therefore, no dosage adjustment is recommended.
-
Ketorolac Tromethamine Solution Drops
Gently massage sufficient clotrimazole cream into the affected and surrounding skin areas twice a day, in the morning and evening.
Clinical improvement, with relief of pruritis, usually occurs within the first week of treatment with clotrimazole cream. If the patient shows no clinical improvement after four weeks of treatment with clotrimazole cream, the diagnosis should be reviewed.
-
Pramipexole Dihydrochloride
2.1 General Dosing Considerations
Pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets are taken orally, with or without food.
If a significant interruption in therapy with pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets has occurred, re-titration of therapy may be warranted.
2.2 Dosing for Parkinson's Disease
In all clinical studies, dosage was initiated at a subtherapeutic level to avoid intolerable adverse effects and orthostatic hypotension. Pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets should be titrated gradually in all patients. The dose should be increased to achieve a maximum therapeutic effect, balanced against the principal side effects of dyskinesia, hallucinations, somnolence, and dry mouth.
Dosing in Patients with Normal Renal Function
Initial Treatment
Doses should be increased gradually from a starting dose of 0.375 mg/day given in three divided doses and should not be increased more frequently than every 5 to 7 days. A suggested ascending dosage schedule that was used in clinical studies is shown in Table 1:
Table 1 Ascending Dosage Schedule of Pramipexole Dihydrochloride Tablets for Parkinson's Disease
Week
Dosage (mg)
Total Daily Dose (mg)
1
0.125 three times a day
0.375
2
0.25 three times a day
0.75
3
0.5 three times a day
1.5
4
0.75 three times a day
2.25
5
1 three times a day
3
6
1.25 three times a day
3.75
7
1.5 three times a day
4.5
Maintenance Treatment
Pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets were effective and well tolerated over a dosage range of 1.5 to 4.5 mg/day administered in equally divided doses three times per day with or without concomitant levodopa (approximately 800 mg/day).
In a fixed-dose study in early Parkinson's disease patients, doses of 3 mg, 4.5 mg, and 6 mg per day of pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets were not shown to provide any significant benefit beyond that achieved at a daily dose of 1.5 mg/day. However, in the same fixed-dose study, the following adverse events were dose related: postural hypotension, nausea, constipation, somnolence, and amnesia. The frequency of these events was generally 2-fold greater than placebo for pramipexole doses greater than 3 mg/day. The incidence of somnolence reported with pramipexole at a dose of 1.5 mg/day was comparable to placebo.
When pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets are used in combination with levodopa, a reduction of the levodopa dosage should be considered. In a controlled study in advanced Parkinson's disease, the dosage of levodopa was reduced by an average of 27% from baseline.
Dosing in Patients with Renal Impairment
The recommended dosing of pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets in Parkinson’s disease patients with renal impairment is provided in Table 2.
Table 2 Dosing of Pramipexole Dihydrochloride Tablets in Parkinson’s Disease Patients with Renal Impairment
Renal Status
Starting Dose (mg)
Maximum Dose (mg)
Normal to mild impairment (creatinine Cl >50 mL/min)
0.125 three times a day
1.5 three times a day
Moderate impairment (creatinine Cl =30 to 50 mL/min)
0.125 twice a day
0.75 three times a day
Severe impairment (creatinine Cl =15 to <30 mL/min)
0.125 once a day
1.5 once a day
Very severe impairment (creatinine Cl <15 mL/min and hemodialysis patients)
The use of pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets has not been adequately studied in this group of patients.
Discontinuation of Treatment
Pramipexole dihydrochloride tablets may be tapered off at a rate of 0.75 mg per day until the daily dose has been reduced to 0.75 mg. Thereafter, the dose may be reduced by 0.375 mg per day.
-
Prednicarbate Ointment
Gently massage ciclopirox olamine cream into the affected and surrounding skin areas twice daily, in the morning and evening. Clinical improvement with relief of pruritus and other symptoms usually occurs within the first week of treatment. If a patient shows no clinical improvement after four weeks of treatment with ciclopirox olamine cream, the diagnosis should be redetermined. Patients with tinea versicolor usually exhibit clinical and mycological clearing after two weeks of treatment.
-
Acamprosate Calcium
The recommended dose of acamprosate calcium delayed-release tablets is two 333 mg tablets (each dose should total 666 mg) taken three times daily. A lower dose may be effective in some patients.
Although dosing may be done without regard to meals, dosing with meals was employed during clinical trials and is suggested in those patients who regularly eat three meals daily.
Treatment with acamprosate calcium delayed-release tablets should be initiated as soon as possible after the period of alcohol withdrawal, when the patient has achieved abstinence, and should be maintained if the patient relapses. Acamprosate calcium delayed-release tablets should be used as part of a comprehensive psychosocial treatment program.
2.1 Dosage in Renal Impairment
For patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance of 30 to 50 mL/min), a starting dose of one 333 mg tablet taken three times daily is recommended. Acamprosate calcium delayed-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance of ≤30 mL/min) [see Contraindications (4.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
-
Ciclopirox Gel
Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp
Apply ciclopirox gel to affected scalp areas twice daily, in the morning and evening for 4 weeks. Clinical improvement usually occurs within the first week with continuing resolution of signs and symptoms through the fourth week of treatment. If a patient shows no clinical improvement after 4 weeks of treatment, the diagnosis should be reviewed.
-
Junior Fast-dissolving Pain And Fever
Adapalene gel 0.1% should be applied once a day to affected areas after washing in the evening before retiring. A thin film of the gel should be applied, avoiding eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
During the early weeks of therapy, an apparent exacerbation of acne may occur. This is due to the action of the medication on previously unseen lesions and should not be considered a reason to discontinue therapy. Therapeutic results should be noticed after eight to twelve weeks of treatment.
-
Lamotrigine
2.1 General Dosing Considerations
Rash: There are suggestions, yet to be proven, that the risk of severe, potentially life-threatening rash may be increased by (1) coadministration of lamotrigine with valproate, (2) exceeding the recommended initial dose of lamotrigine, or (3) exceeding the recommended dose escalation for lamotrigine. However, cases have occurred in the absence of these factors [see Boxed Warning]. Therefore, it is important that the dosing recommendations be followed closely.
The risk of nonserious rash may be increased when the recommended initial dose and/or the rate of dose escalation for lamotrigine is exceeded and in patients with a history of allergy or rash to other AEDs.
It is recommended that lamotrigine not be restarted in patients who discontinued due to rash associated with prior treatment with lamotrigine, unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If the decision is made to restart a patient who has discontinued lamotrigine, the need to restart with the initial dosing recommendations should be assessed. The greater the interval of time since the previous dose, the greater consideration should be given to restarting with the initial dosing recommendations. If a patient has discontinued lamotrigine for a period of more than 5 half-lives, it is recommended that initial dosing recommendations and guidelines be followed. The half-life of lamotrigine is affected by other concomitant medications [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Lamotrigine Added to Drugs Known to Induce or Inhibit Glucuronidation: Because lamotrigine is metabolized predominantly by glucuronic acid conjugation, drugs that are known to induce or inhibit glucuronidation may affect the apparent clearance of lamotrigine. Drugs that induce glucuronidation include carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, rifampin, estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Valproate inhibits glucuronidation. For dosing considerations for lamotrigine in patients on estrogen-containing contraceptives and atazanavir/ritonavir, see below and Table 13. For dosing considerations for lamotrigine in patients on other drugs known to induce or inhibit glucuronidation, see Tables 1, 2, 5-6, and 13.
Target Plasma Levels for Patients With Epilepsy or Bipolar Disorder: A therapeutic plasma concentration range has not been established for lamotrigine. Dosing of lamotrigine should be based on therapeutic response [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives:Starting Lamotrigine in Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: Although estrogen-containing oral contraceptives have been shown to increase the clearance of lamotrigine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustments to the recommended dose-escalation guidelines for lamotrigine should be necessary solely based on the use of estrogen-containing oral contraceptives. Therefore, dose escalation should follow the recommended guidelines for initiating adjunctive therapy with lamotrigine based on the concomitant AED or other concomitant medications (see Tables 1, 5, and 7). See below for adjustments to maintenance doses of lamotrigine in women taking estrogen-containing oral contraceptives.
Adjustments to the Maintenance Dose of Lamotrigine In Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives:
(1) Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose of lamotrigine will in most cases need to be increased, by as much as 2-fold over the recommended target maintenance dose to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level.
(2) Starting Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women taking a stable dose of lamotrigine and not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose will in most cases need to be increased by as much as 2-fold to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level. The dose increases should begin at the same time that the oral contraceptive is introduced and continue, based on clinical response, no more rapidly than 50 to 100 mg/day every week. Dose increases should not exceed the recommended rate (see Tables 1 and 5) unless lamotrigine plasma levels or clinical response support larger increases. Gradual transient increases in lamotrigine plasma levels may occur during the week of inactive hormonal preparation (pill-free week), and these increases will be greater if dose increases are made in the days before or during the week of inactive hormonal preparation. Increased lamotrigine plasma levels could result in additional adverse reactions, such as dizziness, ataxia, and diplopia. If adverse reactions attributable to lamotrigine consistently occur during the pill-free week, dose adjustments to the overall maintenance dose may be necessary. Dose adjustments limited to the pill-free week are not recommended. For women taking lamotrigine in addition to carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustment to the dose of lamotrigine should be necessary.
(3) Stopping Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose of lamotrigine will in most cases need to be decreased by as much as 50% in order to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level. The decrease in dose of lamotrigine should not exceed 25% of the total daily dose per week over a 2-week period, unless clinical response or lamotrigine plasma levels indicate otherwise [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In women taking lamotrigine in addition to carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustment to the dose of lamotrigine should be necessary.
Women and Other Hormonal Contraceptive Preparations or Hormone Replacement Therapy: The effect of other hormonal contraceptive preparations or hormone replacement therapy on the pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine has not been systematically evaluated. It has been reported that ethinylestradiol, not progestogens, increased the clearance of lamotrigine up to 2-fold, and the progestin-only pills had no effect on lamotrigine plasma levels. Therefore, adjustments to the dosage of lamotrigine in the presence of progestogens alone will likely not be needed.
Patients Taking Atazanavir/Ritonavir:
While atazanavir/ritonavir does reduce the lamotrigine plasma concentration, no adjustments to the recommended dose-escalation guidelines for lamotrigine should be necessary solely based on the use of atazanavir/ritonavir. Dose escalation should follow the recommended guidelines for initiating adjunctive therapy with lamotrigine based on concomitant AED or other concomitant medications (see Tables 1, 2, and 5). In patients already taking maintenance doses of lamotrigine and not taking glucuronidation inducers, the dose of lamotrigine may need to be increased if atazanavir/ritonavir is added, or decreased if atazanavir/ritonavir is discontinued [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Patients With Hepatic Impairment:
Experience in patients with hepatic impairment is limited. Based on a clinical pharmacology study in 24 subjects with mild, moderate, and severe liver impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the following general recommendations can be made. No dosage adjustment is needed in patients with mild liver impairment. Initial, escalation, and maintenance doses should generally be reduced by approximately 25% in patients with moderate and severe liver impairment without ascites and 50% in patients with severe liver impairment with ascites. Escalation and maintenance doses may be adjusted according to clinical response.
Patients With Renal Impairment:
Initial doses of lamotrigine should be based on patients' concomitant medications (see Tables 1-3 and 5); reduced maintenance doses may be effective for patients with significant renal impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Few patients with severe renal impairment have been evaluated during chronic treatment with lamotrigine. Because there is inadequate experience in this population, lamotrigine should be used with caution in these patients.
Discontinuation Strategy:
Epilepsy:
For patients receiving lamotrigine in combination with other AEDs, a re-evaluation of all AEDs in the regimen should be considered if a change in seizure control or an appearance or worsening of adverse reactions is observed.
If a decision is made to discontinue therapy with lamotrigine, a step-wise reduction of dose over at least 2 weeks (approximately 50% per week) is recommended unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Discontinuing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation should prolong the half-life of lamotrigine; discontinuing valproate should shorten the half-life of lamotrigine.
Bipolar Disorder:
In the controlled clinical trials, there was no increase in the incidence, type, or severity of adverse reactions following abrupt termination of lamotrigine. In the clinical development program in adults with bipolar disorder, 2 patients experienced seizures shortly after abrupt withdrawal of lamotrigine. Discontinuation of lamotrigine should involve a step-wise reduction of dose over at least 2 weeks (approximately 50% per week) unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
2.2 Epilepsy - Adjunctive Therapy
This section provides specific dosing recommendations for patients older than 12 years and patients aged 2 to 12 years. Within each of these age-groups, specific dosing recommendations are provided depending upon concomitant AEDs or other concomitant medications (see Table 1 for patients older than 12 years and Table 2 for patients aged 2 to 12 years). A weight-based dosing guide for patients aged 2 to 12 years on concomitant valproate is provided in Table 3.
Patients Older Than 12 Years:
Recommended dosing guidelines are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Patients Older Than 12 Years With EpilepsyIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
25 mg every other day
25 mg every day
50 mg/day
Weeks 3 and 4
25 mg every day
50 mg/day
100 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
Week 5 onward to maintenance
Increase by 25 to 50 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks
Increase by 50 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks
Increase by 100 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks.
Usual Maintenance Dose
100 to 200 mg/day with valproate alone
100 to 400 mg/day with valproate and other drugs that induce glucuronidation (in 1 or 2 divided doses)
225 to 375 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
300 to 500 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years:
Recommended dosing guidelines are summarized in Table 2.
Lower starting doses and slower dose escalations than those used in clinical trials are recommended because of the suggestion that the risk of rash may be decreased by lower starting doses and slower dose escalations. Therefore, maintenance doses will take longer to reach in clinical practice than in clinical trials. It may take several weeks to months to achieve an individualized maintenance dose. Maintenance doses in patients weighing less than 30 kg, regardless of age or concomitant AED, may need to be increased as much as 50%, based on clinical response.
The smallest available strength of lamotrigine tablets (chewable, dispersible) is 2 mg, and only whole tablets should be administered. If the calculated dose cannot be achieved using whole tablets, the dose should be rounded down to the nearest whole tablet[see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16) and MEDICATION GUIDE].
Table 2. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years With EpilepsyIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
0.15 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet (see Table 3 for weight based dosing guide)
0.3 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
Weeks 3 and 4
0.3 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet (see Table 3 for weight based dosing guide)
0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
1.2 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
Week 5 onward to maintenance
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 0.3 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 0.6 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 1.2 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
Usual Maintenance Dose
1 to 5 mg/kg/day (maximum 200 mg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses) 1 to 3 mg/kg/day with valproate alone
4.5 to 7.5 mg/kg/day (maximum 300 mg/day in 2 divided doses)
5 to 15 mg/kg/day (maximum 400 mg/day in 2 divided doses)
Maintenance dose in patients less than 30 kg
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
Note: Only whole tablets should be used for dosing.
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 3. The Initial Weight-Based Dosing Guide for Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years Taking Valproate (Weeks 1 to 4) With EpilepsyIf the patient’s weight is
Give this daily dose, using the most appropriate combination of lamotrigine 2-mg and 5-mg tablets
Greater than
And less than
Weeks 1 and 2
Weeks 3 and 4
6.7 kg
14 kg
2 mg every other day
2 mg every day
14.1 kg
27 kg
2 mg every day
4 mg every day
27.1 kg
34 kg
4 mg every day
8 mg every day
34.1 kg
40 kg
5 mg every day
10 mg every day
Usual Adjunctive Maintenance Dose for Epilepsy
The usual maintenance doses identified in Tables 1 and 2 are derived from dosing regimens employed in the placebo-controlled adjunctive trials in which the efficacy of lamotrigine was established. In patients receiving multidrug regimens employing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, or primidone without valproate, maintenance doses of adjunctive lamotrigine as high as 700 mg/day have been used. In patients receiving valproate alone, maintenance doses of adjunctive lamotrigine as high as 200 mg/day have been used. The advantage of using doses above those recommended in Tables 1 - 4 has not been established in controlled trials.
2.3 Epilepsy - Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy to Monotherapy
The goal of the transition regimen is to attempt to maintain seizure control while mitigating the risk of serious rash associated with the rapid titration of lamotrigine.
The recommended maintenance dose of lamotrigine as monotherapy is 500 mg/day given in 2 divided doses.
To avoid an increased risk of rash, the recommended initial dose and subsequent dose escalations for lamotrigine should not be exceeded [see Boxed Warning].
Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy With Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidone to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
After achieving a dose of 500 mg/day of lamotrigine using the guidelines in Table 1, the concomitant enzyme-inducing AED should be withdrawn by 20% decrements each week over a 4-week period. The regimen for the withdrawal of the concomitant AED is based on experience gained in the controlled monotherapy clinical trial.
Conversion from Adjunctive Therapy With Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
The conversion regimen involves the 4 steps outlined in Table 4.
Table 4. Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy With Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine in Patients Aged 16 Years and Older With EpilepsyLamotrigine
Valproate
Step 1
Achieve a dose of 200 mg/day according to guidelines in Table 1.
Maintain established stable dose.
Step 2
Maintain at 200 mg/day.
Decrease dose by decrements no greater than 500 mg/day/week to 500 mg/day and then maintain for 1 week.
Step 3
Increase to 300 mg/day and maintain for 1 week.
Simultaneously decrease to 250 mg/day and maintain for 1 week.
Step 4
Increase by 100 mg/day every week to achieve maintenance dose of 500 mg/day.
Discontinue.
Conversion from Adjunctive Therapy With Antiepileptic Drugs Other Than Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone, or Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
No specific dosing guidelines can be provided for conversion to monotherapy with lamotrigine with AEDs other than carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or valproate.
2.4 Bipolar Disorder
The goal of maintenance treatment with lamotrigine is to delay the time to occurrence of mood episodes (depression, mania, hypomania, mixed episodes) in patients treated for acute mood episodes with standard therapy [see Indications and Usage (1)]. Patients taking lamotrigine for more than 16 weeks should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Adults
The target dose of lamotrigine is 200 mg/day (100 mg/day in patients taking valproate, which decreases the apparent clearance of lamotrigine, and 400 mg/day in patients not taking valproate and taking either carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir that increase the apparent clearance of lamotrigine). In the clinical trials, doses up to 400 mg/day as monotherapy were evaluated; however, no additional benefit was seen at 400 mg/day compared with 200 mg/day [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Accordingly, doses above 200 mg/day are not recommended.
Treatment with lamotrigine is introduced, based on concurrent medications, according to the regimen outlined in Table 5. If other psychotropic medications are withdrawn following stabilization, the dose of lamotrigine should be adjusted. In patients discontinuing valproate, the dose of lamotrigine should be doubled over a 2-week period in equal weekly increments (see Table 6). In patients discontinuing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation, the dose of lamotrigine should remain constant for the first week and then should be decreased by half over a 2-week period in equal weekly decrements (see Table 6). The dose of lamotrigine may then be further adjusted to the target dose (200 mg) as clinically indicated.
If other drugs are subsequently introduced, the dose of lamotrigine may need to be adjusted. In particular, the introduction of valproate requires reduction in the dose of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
To avoid an increased risk of rash, the recommended initial dose and subsequent dose escalations of lamotrigine should not be exceeded [see Boxed Warning].
Table 5. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Adults With Bipolar DisorderIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
25 mg every other day
25 mg daily
50 mg daily
Weeks 3 and 4
25 mg daily
50 mg daily
100 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 5
50 mg daily
100 mg daily
200 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 6
100 mg daily
200 mg daily
300 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 7
100 mg daily
200 mg daily
up to 400 mg daily, in divided doses
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 6. Dosage Adjustments to Lamotrigine In Adults With Bipolar Disorder Following Discontinuation of Psychotropic MedicationsDiscontinuation of Psychotropic Drugs (excluding Valproatea, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital or Primidoneb)
After Discontinuation of Valproatea
After Discontinuation of Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb
Current dose of lamotrigine (mg/day) 100
Current dose of lamotrigine (mg/day) 400
Week 1
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
150
400
Week 2
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
200
300
Week 3 onward
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
200
200
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.5 Administration of Lamotrigine Tablets (chewable, dispersible)
Lamotrigine tablets (chewable, dispersible) may be swallowed whole, chewed, or dispersed in water or diluted fruit juice. If the tablets are chewed, consume a small amount of water or diluted fruit juice to aid in swallowing.
To disperse lamotrigine tablets (chewable, dispersible), add the tablets to a small amount of liquid (1 teaspoon, or enough to cover the medication). Approximately 1 minute later, when the tablets are completely dispersed, swirl the solution and consume the entire quantity immediately. No attempt should be made to administer partial quantities of the dispersed tablets.
-
Edema Hp
2.1 Instructions for Use in All Patients
Voriconazole tablets should be taken at least one hour before or after a meal.
2.3 Recommended Dosing in Adults
Invasive Aspergillosis and Serious Fungal Infections due to Fusarium Spp. and Scedosporium Apiospermum
See Table 1. Therapy must be initiated with the specified loading dose regimen of intravenous voriconazole on Day 1 followed by the recommended maintenance dose regimen. Intravenous treatment should be continued for at least 7 days. Once the patient has clinically improved and can tolerate medication given by mouth, the oral tablet form or oral suspension form of voriconazole may be utilized. The recommended oral maintenance dose of 200 mg achieves a voriconazole exposure similar to 3 mg/kg IV; a 300 mg oral dose achieves an exposure similar to 4 mg/kg IV. Switching between the intravenous and oral formulations is appropriate because of the high bioavailability of the oral formulation in adults [see Clinical Pharmacology (12)].
Candidemia in Non-neutropenic Patients and Other Deep Tissue Candida Infections
See Table 1. Patients should be treated for at least 14 days following resolution of symptoms or following last positive culture, whichever is longer.
Esophageal Candidiasis
See Table 1. Patients should be treated for a minimum of 14 days and for at least 7 days following resolution of symptoms.
Table 1 Recommended Dosing RegimenInfection
Loading Dose
Maintenance Dosea,b
IV
IV
Oralc
Invasive Aspergillosisd
6 mg/kg q12h for the first 24 hours
4 mg/kg q12h
200 mg q12h
Candidemia in non-neutropenic patients and other deep tissue Candida infections
6 mg/kg q12h for the first 24 hours
3 to 4 mg/kg q12he
200 mg q12h
Esophageal Candidiasis
f
f
200 mg q12h
Scedosporiosis and Fusariosis
6 mg/kg q12h for the first 24 hours
4 mg/kg q12h
200 mg q12h
a Increase dose when voriconazole is co-administered with phenytoin or efavirenz (7); Decrease dose in patients with hepatic impairment (2.7)bIn healthy volunteer studies, the 200 mg oral q12h dose provided an exposure (AUCτ) similar to a 3 mg/kg IV q12h dose; the 300 mg oral q12h dose provided an exposure (AUCτ) similar to a 4 mg/kg IV q12h dose [see Clinical Pharmacology (12)].c Adult patients who weigh less than 40 kg should receive half of the oral maintenance dose.d In a clinical study of invasive aspergillosis, the median duration of intravenous voriconazole therapy was 10 days (range 2 to 85 days). The median duration of oral voriconazole therapy was 76 days (range 2 to 232 days) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].e In clinical trials, patients with candidemia received 3 mg/kg IV q12h as primary therapy, while patients with other deep tissue Candida infections received 4 mg/kg q12h as salvage therapy. Appropriate dose should be based on the severity and nature of the infectionf Not evaluated in patients with esophageal candidiasis.
2.4 Dosage Adjustment
If patient response is inadequate, the oral maintenance dose may be increased from 200 mg every 12 hours (similar to 3 mg/kg IV q12h) to 300 mg every 12 hours (similar to 4 mg/kg IV q12h). For adult patients weighing less than 40 kg, the oral maintenance dose may be increased from 100 mg every 12 hours to 150 mg every 12 hours. If patient is unable to tolerate 300 mg orally every 12 hours, reduce the oral maintenance dose by 50 mg steps to a minimum of 200 mg every 12 hours (or to 100 mg every 12 hours for adult patients weighing less than 40 kg).
The maintenance dose of voriconazole should be increased when co-administered with phenytoin or efavirenz [seeDrug Interactions (7)].
The maintenance dose of voriconazole should be reduced in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, Child-Pugh Class A and B [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)]. There are no PK data to allow for dosage adjustment recommendations in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C).
Duration of therapy should be based on the severity of the patient’s underlying disease, recovery from immunosuppression, and clinical response.
2.7 Use in Patients With Hepatic Impairment
In the clinical program, patients were included who had baseline liver function tests (ALT, AST) up to 5 times the upper limit of normal. No dose adjustment is necessary in patients with this degree of abnormal liver function, but continued monitoring of liver function tests for further elevations is recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
It is recommended that the standard loading dose regimens be used but that the maintenance dose be halved in patients with mild to moderate hepatic cirrhosis (Child-Pugh Class A and B) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Voriconazole tablets have not been studied in patients with severe hepatic cirrhosis (Child-Pugh Class C) or in patients with chronic hepatitis B or chronic hepatitis C disease. Voriconazole has been associated with elevations in liver function tests and clinical signs of liver damage, such as jaundice, and should only be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment if the benefit outweighs the potential risk. Patients with hepatic insufficiency must be carefully monitored for drug toxicity.
2.8 Use in Patients With Renal Impairment
The pharmacokinetics of orally administered voriconazole tablets are not significantly affected by renal impairment. Therefore, no adjustment is necessary for oral dosing in patients with mild to severe renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
In patients with moderate or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min), accumulation of the intravenous vehicle, SBECD, occurs. Oral voriconazole should be administered to these patients, unless an assessment of the benefit/risk to the patient justifies the use of intravenous voriconazole. Serum creatinine levels should be closely monitored in these patients, and, if increases occur, consideration should be given to changing to oral voriconazole therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Voriconazole is hemodialyzed with clearance of 121 mL/min. The intravenous vehicle, SBECD, is hemodialyzed with clearance of 55 mL/min. A 4-hour hemodialysis session does not remove a sufficient amount of voriconazole to warrant dose adjustment.
-
Eszopiclone
Use the lowest effective dose for the patient.
2.1 Dosage in Adults
The recommended starting dose is 1 mg. Dosing can be raised to 2 mg or 3 mg if clinically indicated. In some patients, the higher morning blood levels of eszopiclone following use of the 2 mg or 3 mg dose increase the risk of next day impairment of driving and other activities that require full alertness [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. The total dose of eszopiclone should not exceed 3 mg, once daily immediately before bedtime [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
2.2 Geriatric or Debilitated Patients
The total dose of eszopiclone should not exceed 2 mg in elderly or debilitated patients.
2.3 Patients with Severe Hepatic Impairment, or Taking Potent CYP3A4 Inhibitors
In patients with severe hepatic impairment, or in patients coadministered eszopiclone tablets with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors, the total dose of eszopiclone should not exceed 2 mg [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
2.4 Use with CNS Depressants
Dosage adjustments may be necessary when eszopiclone tablets are combined with other CNS depressant drugs because of the potentially additive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
2.5 Administration with Food
Taking eszopiclone tablets with or immediately after a heavy, high-fat meal results in slower absorption and would be expected to reduce the effect of eszopiclone tablets on sleep latency [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
-
Vida Mia Hand Sanitizer
Click here to enter Dosage and Administration
2.1 How to Start Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are dispensed in blister packs [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)]. Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg may be started using either a Day 1 start or a Sunday start (see Table 1). For the first cycle of a Sunday Start regimen, an additional method of contraception should be used until after the first 7 consecutive days of administration.
2.2 How to Take Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Table 1: Instructions for Administration of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Starting COCs in women not currently using hormonal contraception (Day 1 Start or Sunday Start)
Important: Consider the possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of this product.
Tablet Color:
• Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg active tablets are blue (Day 1 to Day 21). • Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg active tablets are white to off-white (Day 1 to Day 7), light blue (Day 8 to Day 15) and blue (Day 16 to Day 21). • Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg both have light green inactive tablets (Day 22 to Day 28).Day 1 Start:
• Take first active tablet without regard to meals on the first day of menses. • Take subsequent active tablets once daily at the same time each day for a total of 21 days. • Take one light green inactive tablet daily for 7 days and at the same time of day that active tablets were taken. • Begin each subsequent pack on the same day of the week as the first cycle pack (i.e., on the day after taking the last inactive tablet)Sunday Start:
• Take first active tablet without regard to meals on the first Sunday after the onset of menses. Due to the potential risk of becoming pregnant, use additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) for the first seven days of the patient’s first cycle pack of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg • Take subsequent active tablets once daily at the same time each day for a total of 21 days. • Take one light green inactive tablet daily for the following 7 days and at the same time of day that active tablets were taken. • Begin each subsequent pack on the same day of the week as the first cycle pack (i.e., on the Sunday after taking the last inactive tablet) and additional non-hormonal contraceptive is not needed.Switching to Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg from another oral contraceptive
Start on the same day that a new pack of the previous oral contraceptive would have started.
Switching from another contraceptive method to Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Start Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
• Transdermal patch • On the day when next application would have been scheduled • Vaginal ring • On the day when next insertion would have been scheduled • Injection • On the day when next injection would have been scheduled • Intrauterine contraceptive • On the day of removal • If the IUD is not removed on first day of the patient’s menstrual cycle, additional non-hormonal contraceptive (such as condoms and spermicide) is needed for the first seven days of the first cycle pack • Implant • On the day of removalComplete instructions to facilitate patient counseling on proper tablet usage are located in the FDA-Approved Patient Labeling.
Starting Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg after Abortion or Miscarriage
First-trimester
• After a first-trimester abortion or miscarriage, Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg may be started immediately. An additional method of contraception is not needed if Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg is started immediately. • If Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg is not started within 5 days after termination of the pregnancy, the patient should use additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) for the first seven days of her first cycle pack of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg.Second-trimester
• Do not start until 4 weeks after a second-trimester abortion or miscarriage, due to the increased risk of thromboembolic disease. Start Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, following the instructions in Table 1 for Day 1 or Sunday start, as desired. If using Sunday start, use additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) for the first seven days of the patient’s first cycle pack of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg. [See Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and FDA-Approved Patient Labeling.]Starting Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg after Childbirth
• Do not start until 4 weeks after delivery, due to the increased risk of thromboembolic disease. Start contraceptive therapy with Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg following the instructions in Table 1 for women not currently using hormonal contraception. • Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are not recommended for use in lactating women [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. • If the woman has not yet had a period postpartum, consider the possibility of ovulation and conception occurring prior to use of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg. [See Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.1 and 8.3), and FDA-Approved Patient Labeling].Blister Card Tablet Dispenser
• If the patient starts pill-taking on Sunday, the first active pill should be taken on the first Sunday after the patient’s menstrual period begins. Remove the first active pill in the top row of the blister card (Sunday) by pressing the pill through the foil in the bottom of the blister card.Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets USP, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets USP, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg:
• If the patient will start pill-taking on a day other than Sunday, a day label strip has been provided and should be placed over the calendar at the top of the blister card. • To place the label correctly, pick the day label strip that starts with the first day of the patient’s period (this is the day the patient starts bleeding or spotting, even if it is almost midnight when the bleeding begins). Place this day label strip on the tablet blister card over the area that has the days of the week (starting with Sunday) imprinted in the plastic. Remove the first blue pill by pressing the pill through the foil in the bottom of the blister card.Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
• If the patient will start pill-taking on a day other than Sunday, a day label strip has been provided and should be placed over the calendar at the top of the blister card. • To place the label correctly, pick the day label strip that starts with the first day of the patient’s period (this is the day the patient starts bleeding or spotting, even if it is almost midnight when the bleeding begins). Place this day label strip on the tablet blister card over the area that has the days of the week (starting with Sunday) imprinted in the plastic. Remove the first white to off-white pill by pressing the pill through the foil in the bottom of the blister card. • After all the light green pills have been taken, start a new blister pack. The patient should take the first pill on the next day, even if the patient’s period is not over yet.2.3 Missed Tablets
Table 2: Instructions for Missed Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
• If one active tablet is missed in Weeks 1, 2, or 3Take the tablet as soon as possible. Continue taking one tablet a day until the pack is finished.
• If two active tablets are missed in Week 1 or Week 2Take the two missed tablets as soon as possible and the next two active tablets the next day. Continue taking one tablet a day until the pack is finished. Additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) should be used as back-up if the patient has sex within 7 days after missing tablets.
• If two active tablets are missed in the third week or three or more active tablets are missed in a row in Weeks 1, 2, or 3.Day 1 start: Throw out the rest of the pack and start a new pack that same day.
Sunday start: Continue taking one tablet a day until Sunday, then throw out the rest of the pack and start a new pack that same day. Additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) should be used as back-up if the patient has sex within 7 days after missing tablets.
2.4 Advice in Case of Gastrointestinal Disturbances
In case of severe vomiting or diarrhea, absorption may not be complete and additional contraceptive measures should be taken. If vomiting or diarrhea occurs within 3 to 4 hours after taking an active tablet, handle this as a missed tablet [see FDA-Approved Patient Labeling].
2.5 Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg Use for Acne
The timing of initiation of dosing with Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg for acne should follow the guidelines for use of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg as an oral contraceptive. Consult the DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section (2.1) for instructions.
-
Amlodipine Besylate
2.1 Dosage for Postherpetic Neuralgia
In adults with postherpetic neuralgia, gabapentin tablets may be initiated on Day 1 as a single 300 mg dose, on Day 2 as 600 mg/day (300 mg two times a day), and on Day 3 as 900 mg/day (300 mg three times a day). The dose can subsequently be titrated up as needed for pain relief to a dose of 1800 mg/day (600 mg three times a day). In clinical studies, efficacy was demonstrated over a range of doses from 1800 mg/day to 3600 mg/day with comparable effects across the dose range; however, in these clinical studies, the additional benefit of using doses greater than 1800 mg/day was not demonstrated.
2.2 Dosage for Epilepsy with Partial Onset Seizures
Patients 12 years of age and above
The starting dose is 300 mg three times a day. The recommended maintenance dose of gabapentin tablets is 300 mg to 600 mg three times a day. Dosages up to 2400 mg/day have been well tolerated in long-term clinical studies. Doses of 3600 mg/day have also been administered to a small number of patients for a relatively short duration, and have been well tolerated. Administer gabapentin three times a day using 600 mg or 800 mg tablets. The maximum time between doses should not exceed 12 hours.
Pediatric Patients Age 3 to 11 years
The starting dose range is 10 mg/kg/day to 15 mg/kg/day, given in three divided doses, and the recommended maintenance dose reached by upward titration over a period of approximately 3 days. The recommended maintenance dose of gabapentin tablets in patients 3 to 4 years of age is 40 mg/kg/day, given in three divided doses. The recommended maintenance dose of gabapentin tablets in patients 5 to 11 years of age is 25 mg/kg/day to 35 mg/kg/day, given in three divided doses. Dosages up to 50 mg/kg/day have been well tolerated in a long-term clinical study. The maximum time interval between doses should not exceed 12 hours.
2.3 Dosage Adjustment in Patients with Renal Impairment
Dosage adjustment in patients 12 years of age and older with renal impairment or undergoing hemodialysis is recommended, as follows (see dosing recommendations above for effective doses in each indication):
TABLE 1. Gabapentin Tablets Dosage Based on Renal Function
Renal Function Creatinine Clearance
(mL/min)
Total Daily Dose Range
(mg/day)
Dose Regimen
(mg)
≥60
900 to 3600
300 TID
400 TID
600 TID
800 TID
1200 TID
>30-59
400 to 1400
200 BID
300 BID
400 BID
500 BID
700 BID
>15-29
200 to 700
200 QD
300 QD
400 QD
500 QD
700 QD
15a
100 to 300
100 QD
125 QD
150 QD
200 QD
300 QD
Post-Hemodialysis Supplemental Dose (mg)b
Hemodialysis
125b
150b
200b
250b
350b
TID = Three times a day; BID = Two times a day; QD = Single daily dose
a For patients with creatinine clearance <15 mL/min, reduce daily dose in proportion to creatinine clearance (e.g., patients with a creatinine clearance of 7.5 mL/min should receive one-half the daily dose that patients with a creatinine clearance of 15 mL/min receive).
b Patients on hemodialysis should receive maintenance doses based on estimates of creatinine clearance as indicated in the upper portion of the table and a supplemental post-hemodialysis dose administered after each 4 hours of hemodialysis as indicated in the lower portion of the table.
Creatinine clearance (CLCr) is difficult to measure in outpatients. In patients with stable renal function, creatinine clearance can be reasonably well estimated using the equation of Cockcroft and Gault:
The use of gabapentin tablets in patients less than 12 years of age with compromised renal function has not been studied.
2.4 Dosage in Elderly
Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and dose should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance values in these patients.
2.5 Administration Information
Administer gabapentin tablets orally with or without food.
Inform patients that, should they divide the scored 600 mg or 800 mg gabapentin tablet in order to administer a half-tablet, they should take the unused half-tablet as the next dose. Half-tablets not used within 28 days of dividing the scored tablet should be discarded.
If the gabapentin dose is reduced, discontinued, or substituted with an alternative medication, this should be done gradually over a minimum of 1 week (a longer period may be needed at the discretion of the prescriber).
-
Gemfibrozil
2.1 General Dosing Considerations
Rash: There are suggestions, yet to be proven, that the risk of severe, potentially life-threatening rash may be increased by (1) coadministration of lamotrigine with valproate, (2) exceeding the recommended initial dose of lamotrigine, or (3) exceeding the recommended dose escalation for lamotrigine. However, cases have occurred in the absence of these factors [see Boxed Warning]. Therefore, it is important that the dosing recommendations be followed closely.
The risk of nonserious rash may be increased when the recommended initial dose and/or the rate of dose escalation for lamotrigine is exceeded and in patients with a history of allergy or rash to other AEDs.
It is recommended that lamotrigine not be restarted in patients who discontinued due to rash associated with prior treatment with lamotrigine, unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If the decision is made to restart a patient who has discontinued lamotrigine, the need to restart with the initial dosing recommendations should be assessed. The greater the interval of time since the previous dose, the greater consideration should be given to restarting with the initial dosing recommendations. If a patient has discontinued lamotrigine for a period of more than 5 half-lives, it is recommended that initial dosing recommendations and guidelines be followed. The half-life of lamotrigine is affected by other concomitant medications [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Lamotrigine Added to Drugs Known to Induce or Inhibit Glucuronidation: Because lamotrigine is metabolized predominantly by glucuronic acid conjugation, drugs that are known to induce or inhibit glucuronidation may affect the apparent clearance of lamotrigine. Drugs that induce glucuronidation include carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, rifampin, estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Valproate inhibits glucuronidation. For dosing considerations for lamotrigine in patients on estrogen-containing contraceptives and atazanavir/ritonavir, see below and Table 13. For dosing considerations for lamotrigine in patients on other drugs known to induce or inhibit glucuronidation, see Table 1, Table 2, Table 5- 6, and Table 13.
Target Plasma Levels for Patients With Epilepsy or Bipolar Disorder: A therapeutic plasma concentration range has not been established for lamotrigine. Dosing of lamotrigine should be based on therapeutic response [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives:Starting Lamotrigine in Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: Although estrogen-containing oral contraceptives have been shown to increase the clearance of lamotrigine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustments to the recommended dose-escalation guidelines for lamotrigine should be necessary solely based on the use of estrogen-containing oral contraceptives. Therefore, dose escalation should follow the recommended guidelines for initiating adjunctive therapy with lamotrigine based on the concomitant AED or other concomitant medications (see Table 1, 5 and 7). See below for adjustments to maintenance doses of lamotrigine in women taking estrogen-containing oral contraceptives.
Adjustments to the Maintenance Dose of Lamotrigine In Women Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives:
(1) Taking Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose of lamotrigine will in most cases need to be increased, by as much as 2-fold over the recommended target maintenance dose to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level.
(2) Starting Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women taking a stable dose of lamotrigine and not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose will in most cases need to be increased by as much as 2-fold to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level. The dose increases should begin at the same time that the oral contraceptive is introduced and continue, based on clinical response, no more rapidly than 50 to 100 mg/day every week. Dose increases should not exceed the recommended rate (see Table 1 or Table 5) unless lamotrigine plasma levels or clinical response support larger increases. Gradual transient increases in lamotrigine plasma levels may occur during the week of inactive hormonal preparation (pill-free week), and these increases will be greater if dose increases are made in the days before or during the week of inactive hormonal preparation. Increased lamotrigine plasma levels could result in additional adverse reactions, such as dizziness, ataxia, and diplopia. If adverse reactions attributable to lamotrigine consistently occur during the pill-free week, dose adjustments to the overall maintenance dose may be necessary. Dose adjustments limited to the pill-free week are not recommended. For women taking lamotrigine in addition to carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustment to the dose of lamotrigine should be necessary.
(3) Stopping Estrogen-Containing Oral Contraceptives: In women not taking carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the maintenance dose of lamotrigine will in most cases need to be decreased by as much as 50% in order to maintain a consistent lamotrigine plasma level. The decrease in dose of lamotrigine should not exceed 25% of the total daily dose per week over a 2-week period, unless clinical response or lamotrigine plasma levels indicate otherwise [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In women taking lamotrigine in addition to carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], no adjustment to the dose of lamotrigine should be necessary.
Women and Other Hormonal Contraceptive Preparations or Hormone Replacement Therapy: The effect of other hormonal contraceptive preparations or hormone replacement therapy on the pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine has not been systematically evaluated. It has been reported that ethinylestradiol, not progestogens, increased the clearance of lamotrigine up to 2-fold, and the progestin-only pills had no effect on lamotrigine plasma levels. Therefore, adjustments to the dosage of lamotrigine in the presence of progestogens alone will likely not be needed.
Patients Taking Atazanavir/Ritonavir:
While atazanavir/ritonavir does reduce the lamotrigine plasma concentration, no adjustments to the recommended dose-escalation guidelines for lamotrigine should be necessary solely based on the use of atazanavir/ritonavir. Dose escalation should follow the recommended guidelines for initiating adjunctive therapy with lamotrigine based on concomitant AED or other concomitant medications (see Tables 1, 2, and 5). In patients already taking maintenance doses of lamotrigine and not taking glucuronidation inducers, the dose of lamotrigine may need to be increased if atazanavir/ritonavir is added, or decreased if atazanavir/ritonavir is discontinued [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Patients With Hepatic Impairment:
Experience in patients with hepatic impairment is limited. Based on a clinical pharmacology study in 24 subjects with mild, moderate, and severe liver impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], the following general recommendations can be made. No dosage adjustment is needed in patients with mild liver impairment. Initial, escalation, and maintenance doses should generally be reduced by approximately 25% in patients with moderate and severe liver impairment without ascites and 50% in patients with severe liver impairment with ascites. Escalation and maintenance doses may be adjusted according to clinical response.
Patients With Renal Impairment:
Initial doses of lamotrigine should be based on patients' concomitant medications (see Tables 1-3 or Table 5); reduced maintenance doses may be effective for patients with significant renal impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Few patients with severe renal impairment have been evaluated during chronic treatment with lamotrigine. Because there is inadequate experience in this population, lamotrigine should be used with caution in these patients.
Discontinuation Strategy:
Epilepsy:
For patients receiving lamotrigine in combination with other AEDs, a re-evaluation of all AEDs in the regimen should be considered if a change in seizure control or an appearance or worsening of adverse reactions is observed.
If a decision is made to discontinue therapy with lamotrigine, a step-wise reduction of dose over at least 2 weeks (approximately 50% per week) is recommended unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Discontinuing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation should prolong the half-life of lamotrigine; discontinuing valproate should shorten the half-life of lamotrigine.
Bipolar Disorder:
In the controlled clinical trials, there was no increase in the incidence, type, or severity of adverse reactions following abrupt termination of lamotrigine. In clinical trials in patients with bipolar disorder, 2 patients experienced seizures shortly after abrupt withdrawal of lamotrigine. However, there were confounding factors that may have contributed to the occurrence of seizures in these patients with bipolar disorder. Discontinuation of lamotrigine should involve a step-wise reduction of dose over at least 2 weeks (approximately 50% per week) unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
2.2 Epilepsy - Adjunctive Therapy
This section provides specific dosing recommendations for patients older than 12 years and patients aged 2 to 12 years. Within each of these age-groups, specific dosing recommendations are provided depending upon concomitant AEDs or other concomitant medications (see Table 1 for patients older than 12 years and Table 2 for patients aged 2 to 12 years). A weight-based dosing guide for patients aged 2 to 12 years on concomitant valproate is provided in Table 3.
Patients Older Than 12 Years:
Recommended dosing guidelines are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Patients Older Than 12 Years With EpilepsyIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
25 mg every other day
25 mg every day
50 mg/day
Weeks 3 and 4
25 mg every day
50 mg/day
100 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
Week 5 onward to maintenance
Increase by 25 to 50 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks
Increase by 50 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks
Increase by 100 mg/day every 1 to 2 weeks.
Usual Maintenance Dose
100 to 200 mg/day with valproate alone
100 to 400 mg/day with valproate and other drugs that induce glucuronidation (in 1 or 2 divided doses)
225 to 375 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
300 to 500 mg/day (in 2 divided doses)
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years:
Recommended dosing guidelines are summarized in Table 2.
Lower starting doses and slower dose escalations than those used in clinical trials are recommended because of the suggestion that the risk of rash may be decreased by smaller starting doses and slower dose escalations. Therefore, maintenance doses will take longer to reach in clinical practice than in clinical trials. It may take several weeks to months to achieve an individualized maintenance dose. Maintenance doses in patients weighing less than 30 kg, regardless of age or concomitant AED, may need to be increased as much as 50%, based on clinical response.
Table 2. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years With EpilepsyIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
0.15 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet (see Table 3 for weight based dosing guide)
0.3 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
Weeks 3 and 4
0.3 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet (see Table 3 for weight based dosing guide)
0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
1.2 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses, rounded down to the nearest whole tablet
Week 5 onward to maintenance
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 0.3 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 0.6 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
The dose should be increased every 1 to 2 weeks as follows: calculate 1.2 mg/kg/day, round this amount down to the nearest whole tablet, and add this amount to the previously administered daily dose
Usual Maintenance Dose
1 to 5 mg/kg/day (maximum 200 mg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses) 1 to 3 mg/kg/day with valproate alone
4.5 to 7.5 mg/kg/day (maximum 300 mg/day in 2 divided doses)
5 to 15 mg/kg/day (maximum 400 mg/day in 2 divided doses)
Maintenance dose in patients less than 30 kg
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
May need to be increased by as much as 50%, based on clinical response
Note: Only whole tablets should be used for dosing.
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 3. The Initial Weight-Based Dosing Guide for Patients Aged 2 to 12 Years Taking Valproate (Weeks 1 to 4) With EpilepsyIf the patient’s weight is
Give this daily dose, using the most appropriate combination of lamotrigine 2-mg and 5-mg tablets
Greater than
And less than
Weeks 1 and 2
Weeks 3 and 4
6.7 kg
14 kg
2 mg every other day
2 mg every day
14.1 kg
27 kg
2 mg every day
4 mg every day
27.1 kg
34 kg
4 mg every day
8 mg every day
34.1 kg
40 kg
5 mg every day
10 mg every day
Usual Adjunctive Maintenance Dose for Epilepsy
The usual maintenance doses identified in Tables 1 and 2 are derived from dosing regimens employed in the placebo-controlled adjunctive trials in which the efficacy of lamotrigine was established. In patients receiving multidrug regimens employing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, or primidone without valproate, maintenance doses of adjunctive lamotrigine as high as 700 mg/day have been used. In patients receiving valproate alone, maintenance doses of adjunctive lamotrigine as high as 200 mg/day have been used. The advantage of using doses above those recommended in Tables 1 - 4 has not been established in controlled trials.
2.3 Epilepsy - Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy to Monotherapy
The goal of the transition regimen is to attempt to maintain seizure control while mitigating the risk of serious rash associated with the rapid titration of lamotrigine.
The recommended maintenance dose of lamotrigine as monotherapy is 500 mg/day given in 2 divided doses.
To avoid an increased risk of rash, the recommended initial dose and subsequent dose escalations for lamotrigine should not be exceeded [see Boxed Warning].
Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy With Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidone to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
After achieving a dose of 500 mg/day of lamotrigine using the guidelines in Table 1, the concomitant enzyme-inducing AED should be withdrawn by 20% decrements each week over a 4-week period. The regimen for the withdrawal of the concomitant AED is based on experience gained in the controlled monotherapy clinical trial.
Conversion from Adjunctive Therapy With Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
The conversion regimen involves the 4 steps outlined in Table 4.
Table 4. Conversion From Adjunctive Therapy With Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine in Patients Aged 16 Years and Older With EpilepsyLamotrigine
Valproate
Step 1
Achieve a dose of 200 mg/day according to guidelines in Table 1.
Maintain established stable dose.
Step 2
Maintain at 200 mg/day.
Decrease dose by decrements no greater than 500 mg/day/week to 500 mg/day and then maintain for 1 week.
Step 3
Increase to 300 mg/day and maintain for 1 week.
Simultaneously decrease to 250 mg/day and maintain for 1 week.
Step 4
Increase by 100 mg/day every week to achieve maintenance dose of 500 mg/day.
Discontinue.
Conversion from Adjunctive Therapy With Antiepileptic Drugs Other Than Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone, or Valproate to Monotherapy With Lamotrigine
No specific dosing guidelines can be provided for conversion to monotherapy with lamotrigine with AEDs other than carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or valproate.
2.4 Bipolar Disorder
The goal of maintenance treatment with lamotrigine is to delay the time to occurrence of mood episodes (depression, mania, hypomania, mixed episodes) in patients treated for acute mood episodes with standard therapy [see Indications and Usage (1)]. Patients taking lamotrigine for more than 16 weeks should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Adults
The target dose of lamotrigine is 200 mg/day (100 mg/day in patients taking valproate, which decreases the apparent clearance of lamotrigine, and 400 mg/day in patients not taking valproate and taking either carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir that increase the apparent clearance of lamotrigine). In the clinical trials, doses up to 400 mg/day as monotherapy were evaluated; however, no additional benefit was seen at 400 mg/day compared with 200 mg/day [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Accordingly, doses above 200 mg/day are not recommended.
Treatment with lamotrigine is introduced, based on concurrent medications, according to the regimen outlined in Table 5. If other psychotropic medications are withdrawn following stabilization, the dose of lamotrigine should be adjusted. For patients discontinuing valproate, the dose of lamotrigine should be doubled over a 2-week period in equal weekly increments (see Table 6). For patients discontinuing carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or other drugs such as rifampin and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation, the dose of lamotrigine should remain constant for the first week and then should be decreased by half over a 2-week period in equal weekly decrements (see Table 6). The dose of lamotrigine may then be further adjusted to the target dose (200 mg) as clinically indicated.
If other drugs are subsequently introduced, the dose of lamotrigine may need to be adjusted. In particular, the introduction of valproate requires reduction in the dose of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
To avoid an increased risk of rash, the recommended initial dose and subsequent dose escalations of lamotrigine should not be exceeded [see Boxed Warning].
Table 5. Escalation Regimen for Lamotrigine in Patients With Bipolar DisorderIn Patients TAKING Valproatea
In Patients NOT TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidoneb, or Valproatea
In Patients TAKING Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb and NOT TAKING Valproatea
Weeks 1 and 2
25 mg every other day
25 mg daily
50 mg daily
Weeks 3 and 4
25 mg daily
50 mg daily
100 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 5
50 mg daily
100 mg daily
200 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 6
100 mg daily
200 mg daily
300 mg daily, in divided doses
Week 7
100 mg daily
200 mg daily
up to 400 mg daily, in divided doses
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 6. Dosage Adjustments to Lamotrigine In Patients With Bipolar Disorder Following Discontinuation of Psychotropic MedicationsDiscontinuation of Psychotropic Drugs (excluding Valproatea, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital or Primidoneb)
After Discontinuation of Valproatea
After Discontinuation of Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, or Primidoneb
Current dose of lamotrigine (mg/day) 100
Current dose of lamotrigine (mg/day) 400
Week 1
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
150
400
Week 2
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
200
300
Week 3 onward
Maintain current dose of lamotrigine
200
200
a Valproate has been shown to inhibit glucuronidation and decrease the apparent clearance of lamotrigine [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
b Drugs that induce lamotrigine glucuronidation and increase clearance, other than the specified antiepileptic drugs, include estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, rifampin, and the protease inhibitors lopinavir/ritonavir and atazanavir/ritonavir. Dosing recommendations for oral contraceptives and the protease inhibitor atazanavir/ritonavir can be found in General Dosing Considerations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Patients on rifampin and the protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir should follow the same dosing titration/maintenance regimen used with antiepileptic drugs that induce glucuronidation and increase clearance [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Sign Up for a Free Account