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Winthrop U.s. Drugs
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Methocarbamol
Oxaliplatin injection should be administered under the supervision of a qualified physician experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Appropriate management of therapy and complications is possible only when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available.
2.1 Dosage
Administer oxaliplatin in combination with 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin every 2 weeks. For advanced disease, treatment is recommended until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. For adjuvant use, treatment is recommended for a total of 6 months (12 cycles):
Day 1: Oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 intravenous infusion in 250–500 mL 5% Dextrose injection, USP and leucovorin 200 mg/m2 intravenous infusion in 5% Dextrose Injection, USP both given over 120 minutes at the same time in separate bags using a Y-line, followed by 5-fluorouracil 400 mg/m2 intravenous bolus given over 2–4 minutes, followed by 5-fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 intravenous infusion in 500 mL 5% Dextrose Injection, USP (recommended) as a 22-hour continuous infusion.
Day 2: Leucovorin 200 mg/m2 intravenous infusion over 120 minutes, followed by 5-fluorouracil 400 mg/m2 intravenous bolus given over 2–4 minutes, followed by 5-fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 intravenous infusion in 500 mL 5% Dextrose Injection, USP (recommended) as a 22-hour continuous infusion.
Figure 1
The administration of oxaliplatin does not require prehydration. Premedication with antiemetics, including 5-HT3 blockers with or without dexamethasone, is recommended.
For information on 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin, see the respective package inserts.
2.2 Dose Modification Recommendations
Prior to subsequent therapy cycles, patients should be evaluated for clinical toxicities and recommended laboratory tests [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]. Prolongation of infusion time for oxaliplatin from 2 hours to 6 hours may mitigate acute toxicities. The infusion times for 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin do not need to be changed.
Adjuvant Therapy in Patients with Stage III Colon Cancer
Neuropathy and other toxicities were graded using the NCI CTC scale version 1 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
For patients who experience persistent Grade 2 neurosensory events that do not resolve, a dose reduction of oxaliplatin to 75 mg/m2 should be considered. For patients with persistent Grade 3 neurosensory events, discontinuing therapy should be considered. The infusional 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin regimen need not be altered.
A dose reduction of oxaliplatin to 75 mg/m2 and infusional 5-fluorouracil to 300 mg/m2 bolus and 500 mg/m2 22 hour infusion is recommended for patients after recovery from grade 3/4 gastrointestinal (despite prophylactic treatment), or grade 4 neutropenia, or febrile neutropenia, or grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia. The next dose should be delayed until: neutrophils ≥1.5 × 109/L and platelets ≥75 × 109/L.
Dose Modifications in Therapy in Previously Untreated and Previously Treated Patients with Advanced Colorectal Cancer
Neuropathy was graded using a study-specific neurotoxicity scale [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Other toxicities were graded by the NCI CTC, Version 2.0.
For patients who experience persistent Grade 2 neurosensory events that do not resolve, a dose reduction of oxaliplatin to 65 mg/m2 should be considered. For patients with persistent Grade 3 neurosensory events, discontinuing therapy should be considered. The 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin regimen need not be altered.
A dose reduction of oxaliplatin to 65 mg/m2 and 5-fluorouracil by 20% (300 mg/m2 bolus and 500 mg/m2 22-hour infusion) is recommended for patients after recovery from grade 3/4 gastrointestinal (despite prophylactic treatment), or grade 4 neutropenia, or febrile neutropenia, or grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia. The next dose should be delayed until: neutrophils ≥1.5 × 109/L and platelets ≥75 × 109/L.
Dose Modifications in Therapy for Patients with Renal Impairment
In patients with normal renal function or mild to moderate renal impairment, the recommended dose of oxaliplatin is 85 mg/m2. In patients with severe renal impairment, the initial recommended oxaliplatin dose should be reduced to 65 mg/m2 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.3 Preparation of Infusion Solution
Do not freeze and protect from light the concentrated solution.
A final dilution must never be performed with a sodium chloride solution or other chloride-containing solutions.
The solution must be further diluted in an infusion solution of 250–500 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP.
After dilution with 250–500 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP, the shelf life is 6 hours at room temperature [20–25°C (68–77°F)] or up to 24 hours under refrigeration [2–8°C (36–46°F)]. After final dilution, protection from light is not required.
Oxaliplatin is incompatible in solution with alkaline medications or media (such as basic solutions of 5-fluorouracil) and must not be mixed with these or administered simultaneously through the same infusion line. The infusion line should be flushed with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP prior to administration of any concomitant medication.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration and discarded if present.
Needles or intravenous administration sets containing aluminum parts that may come in contact with oxaliplatin should not be used for the preparation or mixing of the drug. Aluminum has been reported to cause degradation of platinum compounds.
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Methenamine Hippurate
1 tablet (1.0 g) twice daily (morning and night) for adults and pediatric patients over 12 years of age. 1/2 to 1 tablet (0.5 to 1.0 g) twice daily (morning and night) for pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age. Since the antibacterial activity of methenamine hippurate is greater in acid urine, restriction of alkalinizing foods and medications is desirable. If necessary, as indicated by urinary pH and clinical response, supplemental acidification of the urine should be instituted. The efficacy of therapy should be monitored by repeated urine cultures.
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Ergocalciferol
THE RANGE BETWEEN THERAPEUTIC AND TOXIC DOSES IS NARROW.
Vitamin D Resistant Rickets: 12,000 to 500,000 IU units daily.
Hypoparathyroidism: 50,000 to 200,000 IU units daily concomitantly with calcium lactate 4 g, six times per day.
DOSAGE MUST BE INDIVIDUALIZED UNDER CLOSE MEDICAL SUPERVISION.
Calcium intake should be adequate. Blood calcium and phosphorus determinations must be made every 2 weeks or more frequently if necessary.
X-rays of the bones should be taken every month until condition is corrected and stabilized.
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Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride
Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is available as 2.5 mg/5 mL (0.5 mg/mL) oral solution and as 5 mg breakable (scored) tablets, allowing for the administration of 2.5 mg, if needed. Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride can be taken without regard to food consumption.
2.1 Adults and Children 12 Years of Age and Older
The recommended dose of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is 5 mg (1 tablet or 2 teaspoons [10 mL] oral solution) once daily in the evening. Some patients may be adequately controlled by 2.5 mg (1/2 tablet or 1 teaspoon [5 mL] oral solution) once daily in the evening.
2.2 Children 6 to 11 Years of Age
The recommended dose of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is 2.5 mg (1/2 tablet or 1 teaspoon [5 mL] oral solution) once daily in the evening. The 2.5 mg dose should not be exceeded because the systemic exposure with 5 mg is approximately twice that of adults [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.3 Children 6 months to 5 Years of Age
The recommended initial dose of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is 1.25 mg (1/2 teaspoon oral solution) [2.5mL] once daily in the evening. The 1.25 mg once daily dose should not be exceeded based on comparable exposure to adults receiving 5 mg [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.4 Dose Adjustment for Renal and Hepatic Impairment
In adults and children 12 years of age and older with:
Mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CLCR] = 50-80 mL/min): a dose of 2.5 mg once daily is recommended; Moderate renal impairment (CLCR = 30-50 mL/min): a dose of 2.5 mg once every other day is recommended; Severe renal impairment (CLCR = 10-30 mL/min): a dose of 2.5 mg twice weekly (administered once every 3-4 days) is recommended; End-stage renal disease patients (CLCR < 10 mL/min) and patients undergoing hemodialysis should not receive Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride .No dose adjustment is needed in patients with solely hepatic impairment. In patients with both hepatic impairment and renal impairment, adjustment of the dose is recommended.
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Triamcinolone Acetonide Spray
Administer Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray by the intranasal route only. Shake Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray well before each use.
2.1 Adults and Adolescents 12 Years of Age and Older
The recommended starting and maximum dose is 220 mcg per day as two sprays in each nostril once daily. Titrate an individual patient to the minimum effective dose to reduce the possibility of side effects. When the maximum benefit has been achieved and symptoms have been controlled, reducing the dose to 110 mcg per day (one spray in each nostril once a day) has been shown to be effective in maintaining control of the allergic rhinitis symptoms.
2.2 Children 2 to 12 Years of Age
Children 6 to 12 years of age: The recommended starting dose is 110 mcg per day given as one spray in each nostril once daily. Children not responding adequately to 110 mcg per day may use 220 mcg (2 sprays in each nostril) once daily. Once symptoms have been controlled, the dosage may be decreased to 110 mcg once daily [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].
Children 2 to 5 years of age: The recommended and maximum dose is 110 mcg per day given as one spray in each nostril once daily [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].
Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray is not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
2.3 Administration Information
Priming: Prime Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray before using for the first time by shaking the contents well and releasing 5 sprays into the air away from the face. It will remain adequately primed for two weeks. If the product is not used for more than 2 weeks, then it can be adequately reprimed with one spray. Shake Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray well before each use.
If adequate relief of symptoms has not been obtained after 3 weeks of treatment, Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray should be discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5), Patient Counseling Information (17), and Adverse Reactions (6)].
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Enoxaparin Sodium
All patients should be evaluated for a bleeding disorder before administration of enoxaparin sodium, unless the medication is needed urgently. Since coagulation parameters are unsuitable for monitoring enoxaparin activity, routine monitoring of coagulation parameters is not required [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
For subcutaneous use, enoxaparin sodium should not be mixed with other injections or infusions. For intravenous use (i.e., for treatment of acute STEMI), enoxaparin sodium can be mixed with normal saline solution (0.9%) or 5% dextrose in water.
Enoxaparin sodium is not intended for intramuscular administration.
2.1 Adult Dosage
Abdominal Surgery: In patients undergoing abdominal surgery who are at risk for thromboembolic complications, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 40 mg once a day administered by SC injection with the initial dose given 2 hours prior to surgery. The usual duration of administration is 7 to 10 days; up to 12 days administration has been administered in clinical trials.
Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery: In patients undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 30 mg every 12 hours administered by SC injection. Provided that hemostasis has been established, the initial dose should be given 12 to 24 hours after surgery. For hip replacement surgery, a dose of 40 mg once a day SC, given initially 12 (±3) hours prior to surgery, may be considered. Following the initial phase of thromboprophylaxis in hip replacement surgery patients, it is recommended that continued prophylaxis with enoxaparin sodium 40 mg once a day be administered by SC injection for 3 weeks. The usual duration of administration is 7 to 10 days; up to 14 days administration has been administered in clinical trials.
Medical Patients During Acute Illness: In medical patients at risk for thromboembolic complications due to severely restricted mobility during acute illness, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 40 mg once a day administered by SC injection. The usual duration of administration is 6 to 11 days; up to 14 days of enoxaparin sodium has been administered in the controlled clinical trial.
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis with or without Pulmonary Embolism: In outpatient treatment, patients with acute deep vein thrombosis without pulmonary embolism who can be treated at home, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 1 mg/kg every 12 hours administered SC. In inpatient (hospital) treatment, patients with acute deep vein thrombosis with pulmonary embolism or patients with acute deep vein thrombosis without pulmonary embolism (who are not candidates for outpatient treatment), the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 1 mg/kg every 12 hours administered SC or 1.5 mg/kg once a day administered SC at the same time every day. In both outpatient and inpatient (hospital) treatments, warfarin sodium therapy should be initiated when appropriate (usually within 72 hours of enoxaparin sodium). Enoxaparin sodium should be continued for a minimum of 5 days and until a therapeutic oral anticoagulant effect has been achieved (International Normalization Ratio 2.0 to 3.0). The average duration of administration is 7 days; up to 17 days of enoxaparin sodium administration has been administered in controlled clinical trials.
Unstable Angina and Non-Q-Wave Myocardial Infarction: In patients with unstable angina or non-Q-wave myocardial infarction, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is 1 mg/kg administered SC every 12 hours in conjunction with oral aspirin therapy (100 to 325 mg once daily). Treatment with enoxaparin sodium should be prescribed for a minimum of 2 days and continued until clinical stabilization. The usual duration of treatment is 2 to 8 days; up to 12.5 days of enoxaparin sodium has been administered in clinical trials [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Studies (14.5)].
Treatment of Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: In patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, the recommended dose of enoxaparin sodium is a single IV bolus of 30 mg plus a 1 mg/kg SC dose followed by 1 mg/kg administered SC every 12 hours (maximum 100 mg for the first two doses only, followed by 1 mg/kg dosing for the remaining doses). Dosage adjustments are recommended in patients ≥75 years of age [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. All patients should receive aspirin as soon as they are identified as having STEMI and maintained with 75 to 325 mg once daily unless contraindicated.
When administered in conjunction with a thrombolytic (fibrin-specific or non-fibrin specific), enoxaparin sodium should be given between 15 minutes before and 30 minutes after the start of fibrinolytic therapy. In the pivotal clinical study, the enoxaparin sodium treatment duration was 8 days or until hospital discharge, whichever came first. An optimal duration of treatment is not known, but it is likely to be longer than 8 days.
For patients managed with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI): If the last enoxaparin sodium SC administration was given less than 8 hours before balloon inflation, no additional dosing is needed. If the last enoxaparin sodium SC administration was given more than 8 hours before balloon inflation, an IV bolus of 0.3 mg/kg of enoxaparin sodium should be administered [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
2.2 Renal Impairment
Although no dose adjustment is recommended in patients with moderate (creatinine clearance 30–50 mL/min) and mild (creatinine clearance 50–80 mL/min) renal impairment, all such patients should be observed carefully for signs and symptoms of bleeding.
The recommended prophylaxis and treatment dosage regimens for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) are described in Table 1 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 1 Dosage Regimens for Patients with Severe Renal Impairment(creatinine clearance <30mL/minute) Indication Dosage Regimen Prophylaxis in abdominal surgery 30 mg administered SC once daily Prophylaxis in hip or knee replacement surgery 30 mg administered SC once daily Prophylaxis in medical patients during acute illness 30 mg administered SC once daily Inpatient treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis with or without pulmonary embolism, when administered in conjunction with warfarin sodium 1 mg/kg administered SC once daily Outpatient treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis without pulmonary embolism, when administered in conjunction with warfarin sodium 1 mg/kg administered SC once daily Prophylaxis of ischemic complications of unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction, when concurrently administered with aspirin 1 mg/kg administered SC once daily Treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in patients <75 years of age, when administered in conjunction with aspirin 30 mg single IV bolus plus a 1 mg/kg SC dose followed by 1 mg/kg administered SC once daily. Treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in geriatric patients ≥75 years of age, when administered in conjunction with aspirin 1 mg/kg administered SC once daily (no initial bolus)2.3 Geriatric Patients with Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
For treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in geriatric patients ≥75 years of age, do not use an initial IV bolus. Initiate dosing with 0.75 mg/kg SC every 12 hours (maximum 75 mg for the first two doses only, followed by 0.75 mg/kg dosing for the remaining doses) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
No dose adjustment is necessary for other indications in geriatric patients unless kidney function is impaired [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].
2.4 Administration
Enoxaparin sodium injection is a clear, colorless to pale yellow sterile solution, and as with other parenteral drug products, should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.
The use of a tuberculin syringe or equivalent is recommended when using enoxaparin sodium multiple-dose vials to assure withdrawal of the appropriate volume of drug.
Enoxaparin sodium must not be administered by intramuscular injection. Enoxaparin sodium is intended for use under the guidance of a physician.
For subcutaneous administration, patients may self-inject only if their physicians determine that it is appropriate and with medical follow-up, as necessary. Proper training in subcutaneous injection technique (with or without the assistance of an injection device) should be provided.
Subcutaneous Injection Technique: Patients should be lying down and enoxaparin sodium administered by deep SC injection. To avoid the loss of drug when using the 30 and 40 mg prefilled syringes, do not expel the air bubble from the syringe before the injection. Administration should be alternated between the left and right anterolateral and left and right posterolateral abdominal wall. The whole length of the needle should be introduced into a skin fold held between the thumb and forefinger; the skin fold should be held throughout the injection. To minimize bruising, do not rub the injection site after completion of the injection.
Enoxaparin sodium prefilled syringes and graduated prefilled syringes are for single, one-time use only and are available with a system that shields the needle after injection.
Remove the prefilled syringe from the blister packaging by peeling at the arrow as directed on the blister. Do not remove by pulling on the plunger as this may damage the syringe.
Remove the needle shield by pulling it straight off the syringe (see Figure A). If adjusting the dose is required, the dose adjustment must be done prior to injecting the prescribed dose to the patient.Figure ANOTE:
The safety system can only be activated once the syringe has been emptied. Activation of the safety system must be done only after removing the needle from the patient's skin. Do not replace the needle shield after injection. The safety system should not be sterilized.Activation of the safety system may cause minimal splatter of fluid. For optimal safety activate the system while orienting it downwards away from yourself and others.
Intravenous (Bolus) Injection Technique: For intravenous injection, the multiple-dose vial should be used. Enoxaparin sodium should be administered through an intravenous line. Enoxaparin sodium should not be mixed or co-administered with other medications. To avoid the possible mixture of enoxaparin sodium with other drugs, the intravenous access chosen should be flushed with a sufficient amount of saline or dextrose solution prior to and following the intravenous bolus administration of enoxaparin sodium to clear the port of drug. Enoxaparin sodium may be safely administered with normal saline solution (0.9%) or 5% dextrose in water.
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Docetaxel
For all indications, toxicities may warrant dosage adjustments [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].
Administer in a facility equipped to manage possible complications (e.g. anaphylaxis).
2.1 Breast Cancer
For locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior chemotherapy, the recommended dose of docetaxel is 60 mg/m2 to 100 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 1 hour every 3 weeks. For the adjuvant treatment of operable node-positive breast cancer, the recommended docetaxel dose is 75 mg/m2 administered 1 hour after doxorubicin 50 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 every 3 weeks for 6 courses. Prophylactic G-CSF may be used to mitigate the risk of hematological toxicities [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].2.2 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
For treatment after failure of prior platinum-based chemotherapy, docetaxel was evaluated as monotherapy, and the recommended dose is 75 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 1 hour every 3 weeks. A dose of 100 mg/m2 in patients previously treated with chemotherapy was associated with increased hematologic toxicity, infection, and treatment-related mortality in randomized, controlled trials [see Boxed Warning, Dosage and Administration (2.7), Warnings and Precautions (5), Clinical Studies (14)]. For chemotherapy-naïve patients, docetaxel was evaluated in combination with cisplatin. The recommended dose of docetaxel is 75 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 1 hour immediately followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m2 over 30–60 minutes every 3 weeks [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].2.3 Prostate Cancer
For hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer, the recommended dose of docetaxel is 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks as a 1 hour intravenous infusion. Prednisone 5 mg orally twice daily is administered continuously [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].2.4 Gastric Adenocarcinoma
For gastric adenocarcinoma, the recommended dose of docetaxel is 75 mg/m2 as a 1 hour intravenous infusion, followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m2, as a 1 to 3 hour intravenous infusion (both on day 1 only), followed by fluorouracil 750 mg/m2 per day given as a 24-hour continuous intravenous infusion for 5 days, starting at the end of the cisplatin infusion. Treatment is repeated every three weeks. Patients must receive premedication with antiemetics and appropriate hydration for cisplatin administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].2.5 Head and Neck Cancer
Patients must receive premedication with antiemetics, and appropriate hydration (prior to and after cisplatin administration). Prophylaxis for neutropenic infections should be administered. All patients treated on the docetaxel containing arms of the TAX323 and TAX324 studies received prophylactic antibiotics.
Induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy (TAX323) For the induction treatment of locally advanced inoperable SCCHN, the recommended dose of docetaxel is 75 mg/m2 as a 1 hour intravenous infusion followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m2 intravenously over 1 hour, on day one, followed by fluorouracil as a continuous intravenous infusion at 750 mg/m2 per day for five days. This regimen is administered every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. Following chemotherapy, patients should receive radiotherapy. [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)]. Induction chemotherapy followed by chemoradiotherapy (TAX324) For the induction treatment of patients with locally advanced (unresectable, low surgical cure, or organ preservation) SCCHN, the recommended dose of docetaxel is 75 mg/m2 as a 1 hour intravenous infusion on day 1, followed by cisplatin 100 mg/m2 administered as a 30-minute to 3 hour infusion, followed by fluorouracil 1000 mg/m2/day as a continuous infusion from day 1 to day 4. This regimen is administered every 3 weeks for 3 cycles. Following chemotherapy, patients should receive chemoradiotherapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].2.6 Premedication Regimen
All patients should be premedicated with oral corticosteroids (see below for prostate cancer) such as dexamethasone 16 mg per day (e.g., 8 mg twice daily) for 3 days starting 1 day prior to docetaxel administration in order to reduce the incidence and severity of fluid retention as well as the severity of hypersensitivity reactions [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
For hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer, given the concurrent use of prednisone, the recommended premedication regimen is oral dexamethasone 8 mg, at 12 hours, 3 hours and 1 hour before the docetaxel infusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
2.7 Dosage Adjustments During Treatment
Breast Cancer
Patients who are dosed initially at 100 mg/m2 and who experience either febrile neutropenia, neutrophils <500 cells/mm3 for more than 1 week, or severe or cumulative cutaneous reactions during docetaxel therapy should have the dosage adjusted from 100 mg/m2 to 75 mg/m2. If the patient continues to experience these reactions, the dosage should either be decreased from 75 mg/m2 to 55 mg/m2 or the treatment should be discontinued. Conversely, patients who are dosed initially at 60 mg/m2 and who do not experience febrile neutropenia, neutrophils <500 cells/mm3 for more than 1 week, severe or cumulative cutaneous reactions, or severe peripheral neuropathy during docetaxel therapy may tolerate higher doses. Patients who develop ≥grade 3 peripheral neuropathy should have docetaxel treatment discontinued entirely.
Combination Therapy with Docetaxel in the Adjuvant Treatment of Breast Cancer
Docetaxel in combination with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide should be administered when the neutrophil count is ≥1,500 cells/mm3. Patients who experience febrile neutropenia should receive G-CSF in all subsequent cycles. Patients who continue to experience this reaction should remain on G-CSF and have their docetaxel dose reduced to 60 mg/m2. Patients who experience grade 3 or 4 stomatitis should have their docetaxel dose decreased to 60 mg/m2. Patients who experience severe or cumulative cutaneous reactions or moderate neurosensory signs and/or symptoms during docetaxel therapy should have their dosage of docetaxel reduced from 75 mg/m2 to 60 mg/m2. If the patient continues to experience these reactions at 60 mg/m2, treatment should be discontinued.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Monotherapy with docetaxel for NSCLC treatment after failure of prior platinum-based chemotherapy
Patients who are dosed initially at 75 mg/m2 and who experience either febrile neutropenia, neutrophils <500 cells/mm3 for more than one week, severe or cumulative cutaneous reactions, or other grade 3/4 non-hematological toxicities during docetaxel treatment should have treatment withheld until resolution of the toxicity and then resumed at 55 mg/m2. Patients who develop ≥grade 3 peripheral neuropathy should have docetaxel treatment discontinued entirely.
Combination therapy with docetaxel for chemotherapy-naïve NSCLC
For patients who are dosed initially at docetaxel 75 mg/m2 in combination with cisplatin, and whose nadir of platelet count during the previous course of therapy is <25,000 cells/mm3, in patients who experience febrile neutropenia, and in patients with serious non-hematologic toxicities, the docetaxel dosage in subsequent cycles should be reduced to 65 mg/m2. In patients who require a further dose reduction, a dose of 50 mg/m2 is recommended. For cisplatin dosage adjustments, see manufacturers' prescribing information.
Prostate Cancer
Combination therapy with docetaxel for hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer
Docetaxel should be administered when the neutrophil count is ≥1,500 cells/mm3. Patients who experience either febrile neutropenia, neutrophils <500 cells/mm3 for more than one week, severe or cumulative cutaneous reactions or moderate neurosensory signs and/or symptoms during docetaxel therapy should have the dosage of docetaxel reduced from 75 mg/m2 to 60 mg/m2. If the patient continues to experience these reactions at 60 mg/m2, the treatment should be discontinued.
Gastric or Head and Neck Cancer
Docetaxel in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil in gastric cancer or head and neck cancer
Patients treated with docetaxel in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil must receive antiemetics and appropriate hydration according to current institutional guidelines. In both studies, G-CSF was recommended during the second and/or subsequent cycles in case of febrile neutropenia, or documented infection with neutropenia, or neutropenia lasting more than 7 days. If an episode of febrile neutropenia, prolonged neutropenia or neutropenic infection occurs despite G-CSF use, the docetaxel dose should be reduced from 75 mg/m2 to 60 mg/m2. If subsequent episodes of complicated neutropenia occur the docetaxel dose should be reduced from 60 mg/m2 to 45 mg/m2. In case of grade 4 thrombocytopenia the docetaxel dose should be reduced from 75 mg/m2 to 60 mg/m2. Patients should not be retreated with subsequent cycles of docetaxel until neutrophils recover to a level >1,500 cells/mm3 and platelets recover to a level >100,000 cells/mm3. Discontinue treatment if these toxicities persist. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Recommended dose modifications for toxicities in patients treated with docetaxel in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil are shown in Table 1.
Table 1 - Recommended Dose Modifications for Toxicities in Patients Treated with Docetaxel in Combination with Cisplatin and Fluorouracil Toxicity Dosage adjustment Diarrhea grade 3 First episode: reduce fluorouracil dose by 20%.Second episode: then reduce docetaxel dose by 20%. Diarrhea grade 4 First episode: reduce docetaxel and fluorouracil doses by 20%.Second episode: discontinue treatment. Stomatitis/mucositis grade 3 First episode: reduce fluorouracil dose by 20%.Second episode: stop fluorouracil only, at all subsequent cycles.Third episode: reduce docetaxel dose by 20%. Stomatitis/mucositis grade 4 First episode: stop fluorouracil only, at all subsequent cycles.Second episode: reduce docetaxel dose by 20%.Liver dysfunction:
In case of AST/ALT >2.5 to ≤5 × ULN and AP ≤2.5 × ULN, or AST/ALT >1.5 to ≤5 × ULN and AP >2.5 to ≤5 × ULN, docetaxel should be reduced by 20%.
In case of AST/ALT >5 × ULN and/or AP >5 × ULN docetaxel should be stopped.
The dose modifications for cisplatin and fluorouracil in the gastric cancer study are provided below:
Cisplatin dose modifications and delays
Peripheral neuropathy: A neurological examination should be performed before entry into the study, and then at least every 2 cycles and at the end of treatment. In the case of neurological signs or symptoms, more frequent examinations should be performed and the following dose modifications can be made according to NCIC-CTC grade:
Grade 2: Reduce cisplatin dose by 20%. Grade 3: Discontinue treatment.Ototoxicity: In the case of grade 3 toxicity, discontinue treatment.
Nephrotoxicity: In the event of a rise in serum creatinine ≥grade 2 (>1.5 x normal value) despite adequate rehydration, CrCl should be determined before each subsequent cycle and the following dose reductions should be considered (see Table 2).
For other cisplatin dosage adjustments, also refer to the manufacturers' prescribing information.
Table 2 – Dose Reductions for Evaluation of Creatinine Clearance Creatinine clearance result before next cycle Cisplatin dose next cycle CrCl = Creatinine clearance CrCl ≥60 mL/min Full dose of cisplatin was given. CrCl was to be repeated before each treatment cycle. CrCl between 40 and 59 mL/min Dose of cisplatin was reduced by 50% at subsequent cycle. If CrCl was >60 mL/min at end of cycle, full cisplatin dose was reinstituted at the next cycle.If no recovery was observed, then cisplatin was omitted from the next treatment cycle. CrCl <40 mL/min Dose of cisplatin was omitted in that treatment cycle only.If CrCl was still <40 mL/min at the end of cycle, cisplatin was discontinued.If CrCl was >40 and <60 mL/min at end of cycle, a 50% cisplatin dose was given at the next cycle.If CrCl was >60 mL/min at end of cycle, full cisplatin dose was given at next cycle.Fluorouracil dose modifications and treatment delays
For diarrhea and stomatitis, see Table 1.
In the event of grade 2 or greater plantar-palmar toxicity, fluorouracil should be stopped until recovery. The fluorouracil dosage should be reduced by 20%.
For other greater than grade 3 toxicities, except alopecia and anemia, chemotherapy should be delayed (for a maximum of 2 weeks from the planned date of infusion) until resolution to grade ≤1 and then recommenced, if medically appropriate.
For other fluorouracil dosage adjustments, also refer to the manufacturers' prescribing information.
Combination Therapy with Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors:
Avoid using concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, indinavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin and voriconazole). There are no clinical data with a dose adjustment in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Based on extrapolation from a pharmacokinetic study with ketoconazole in 7 patients, consider a 50% docetaxel dose reduction if patients require co-administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. [see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.8 Administration Precautions
Docetaxel is a cytotoxic anticancer drug and, as with other potentially toxic compounds, caution should be exercised when handling and preparing docetaxel solutions. The use of gloves is recommended. Please refer to [see How Supplied/ Storage and Handling (16.3)].
If Docetaxel Injection Concentrate, initial diluted solution, or final dilution for infusion should come into contact with the skin, immediately and thoroughly wash with soap and water. If Docetaxel Injection Concentrate, initial diluted solution, or final dilution for infusion should come into contact with mucosa, immediately and thoroughly wash with water.
Contact of the docetaxel concentrate with plasticized PVC equipment or devices used to prepare solutions for infusion is not recommended. In order to minimize patient exposure to the plasticizer DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), which may be leached from PVC infusion bags or sets, the final docetaxel dilution for infusion should be stored in bottles (glass, polypropylene) or plastic bags (polypropylene, polyolefin) and administered through polyethylene-lined administration sets.
One-vial Docetaxel (Injection Concentrate)
Docetaxel Injection Concentrate requires NO prior dilution with a diluent and is ready to add to the infusion solution.
Please follow the preparation instructions provided below.
2.9 Preparation and Administration
DO NOT use the two-vial formulation (Injection Concentrate and diluent) with the one-vial formulation.
One-vial Docetaxel (Injection Concentrate)
Docetaxel Injection Concentrate (20 mg/mL) requires NO prior dilution with a diluent and is ready to add to the infusion solution. Use only a 21 gauge needle to withdraw docetaxel from the vial because larger bore needles (e.g., 18 and 19 gauge) may result in stopper coring and rubber particulates.
Docetaxel vials should be stored between 2 and 25°C (36 and 77°F). If the vials are stored under refrigeration, allow the appropriate number of vials of Docetaxel Injection Concentrate vials to stand at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes before use. Using only a 21 gauge needle, aseptically withdraw the required amount of docetaxel injection concentrate (20 mg docetaxel/mL) with a calibrated syringe and inject via a single injection (one shot) into a 250 mL infusion bag or bottle of either 0.9% Sodium Chloride solution or 5% Dextrose solution to produce a final concentration of 0.3 mg/mL to 0.74 mg/mL. If a dose greater than 200 mg of docetaxel is required, use a larger volume of the infusion vehicle so that a concentration of 0.74 mg/mL docetaxel is not exceeded. Thoroughly mix the infusion by gentle manual rotation. As with all parenteral products, docetaxel should be inspected visually for particulate matter or discoloration prior to administration whenever the solution and container permit. If the docetaxel dilution for intravenous infusion is not clear or appears to have precipitation, it should be discarded. Docetaxel infusion solution is supersaturated, therefore may crystallize over time. If crystals appear, the solution must no longer be used and shall be discarded.The docetaxel dilution for infusion should be administered intravenously as a 1-hour infusion under ambient room temperature (below 25°C) and lighting conditions.
2.10 Stability
Docetaxel final dilution for infusion, if stored between 2°C and 25°C (36°F and 77°F) is stable for 6 hours. Docetaxel final dilution for infusion (in either 0.9% Sodium Chloride solution or 5% Dextrose solution) should be used within 6 hours (including the 1 hour intravenous administration).
In addition, physical and chemical in-use stability of the infusion solution prepared as recommended has been demonstrated in non-PVC bags up to 48 hours when stored between 2°C and 8°C (36 and 46°F).
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Irbesartan And Hydrochlorothiazide
2.1 General Considerations
The side effects of irbesartan are generally rare and apparently independent of dose; those of hydrochlorothiazide are a mixture of dose-dependent (primarily hypokalemia) and dose-independent phenomena (e.g., pancreatitis), the former much more common than the latter. [See Adverse Reactions (6).]
Maximum antihypertensive effects are attained within 2 to 4 weeks after a change in dose.
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be administered with or without food.
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be administered with other antihypertensive agents.
Renal impairment. The usual regimens of therapy with irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be followed as long as the patient's creatinine clearance is >30 mL/min. In patients with more severe renal impairment, loop diuretics are preferred to thiazides, so irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are not recommended.
Hepatic impairment. No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with hepatic impairment.
2.2 Add-On Therapy
In patients not controlled on monotherapy with irbesartan or hydrochlorothiazide, the recommended doses of irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, in order of increasing mean effect, are (irbesartan-hydrochlorothiazide) 150/12.5 mg, 300/12.5 mg, and 300/25 mg. The largest incremental effect will likely be in the transition from monotherapy to 150/12.5 mg. [See Clinical Studies (14.2).]
2.3 Replacement Therapy
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be substituted for the titrated components.
2.4 Initial Therapy
The usual starting dose is irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide 150/12.5 mg once daily. The dosage can be increased after 1 to 2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of 300/25 mg once daily as needed to control blood pressure [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are not recommended as initial therapy in patients with intravascular volume depletion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
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Desipramine Hydrochloride
Not recommended for use in children (see WARNINGS).
Lower dosages are recommended for elderly patients and adolescents. Lower dosages are also recommended for outpatients compared to hospitalized patients, who are closely supervised. Dosage should be initiated at a low level and increased according to clinical response and any evidence of intolerance. Following remission, maintenance medication may be required for a period of time and should be at the lowest dose that will maintain remission.
Usual Adult Dose
The usual adult dose is 100 to 200 mg per day. In more severely ill patients, dosage may be further increased gradually to 300 mg/day if necessary. Dosages above 300 mg/day are not recommended.
Dosage should be initiated at a lower level and increased according to tolerance and clinical response.
Treatment of patients requiring as much as 300 mg should generally be initiated in hospitals, where regular visits by the physician, skilled nursing care, and frequent electrocardiograms (ECGs) are available.
The best available evidence of impending toxicity from very high doses of desipramine hydrochloride is prolongation of the QRS or QT intervals on the ECG. Prolongation of the PR interval is also significant, but less closely correlated with plasma levels. Clinical symptoms of intolerance, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and postural hypotension, should also alert the physician to the need for reduction in dosage.
Initial therapy may be administered in divided doses or a single daily dose.
Maintenance therapy may be given on a once-daily schedule for patient convenience and compliance.
Adolescent and Geriatric Dose
The usual adolescent and geriatric dose is 25 to 100 mg daily.
Dosage should be initiated at a lower level and increased according to tolerance and clinical response to a usual maximum of 100 mg daily. In more severely ill patients, dosage may be further increased to 150 mg/day. Doses above 150 mg/day are not recommended in these age groups.
Initial therapy may be administered in divided doses or a single daily dose.
Maintenance therapy may be given on a once-daily schedule for patient convenience and compliance.
Switching a Patient To or From a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) Intended to Treat Psychiatric Disorders
At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders and initiation of therapy with desipramine hydrochloride. Conversely, at least 14 days should be allowed after stopping desipramine hydrochloride before starting an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Use of Desipramine Hydrochloride With Other MAOI's Such as Linezolid or Methylene Blue
Do not start desipramine hydrochloride in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue because there is increased risk of serotonin syndrome. In a patient who requires more urgent treatment of a psychiatric condition, other interventions, including hospitalization, should be considered (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
In some cases, a patient already receiving desipramine hydrochloride therapy may require urgent treatment with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. If acceptable alternatives to linezolid or intravenous methylene blue treatment are not available and the potential benefits of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue treatment are judged to outweigh the risks of serotonin syndrome in a particular patient, desipramine hydrochloride should be stopped promptly, and linezolid or intravenous methylene blue can be administered. The patient should be monitored for symptoms of serotonin syndrome for 2 weeks or until 24 hours after the last dose of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, whichever comes first. Therapy with desipramine hydrochloride may be resumed 24 hours after the last dose of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue (see WARNINGS).
The risk of administering methylene blue by non-intravenous routes (such as oral tablets or by local injection) or in intravenous doses much lower than 1 mg/kg with desipramine hydrochloride is unclear. The clinician should, nevertheless, be aware of the possibility of emergent symptoms of serotonin syndrome with such use (see WARNINGS).
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