Controversies Surrounding ADHD Diagnosis

Stories regarding whether ADHD is real or a made-up psychiatric disorder.Stories regarding whether ADHD is real or a made-up psychiatric disorder.

Is ADHD a made-up disease, a plot developed by the drug companies to sell medications and make more money? Some people think so.

Are teachers and schools contributing to the problem by ordering parents to have their children evaluated for ADHD and put on stimulant medication just so they can have a calm classroom? There are many parents who would say "yes."

Over the last 15 years, with the growing numbers of children taking ADHD medications, the actual diagnosis of ADHD has continually been brought into question. Below are some articles which focus on the controversy of whether ADHD is real or just a ficticious diagnosis.


 


next: Diagnosing a Child with ADHD
~ adhd library articles
~ all add/adhd articles

APA Reference
Tracy, N. (2008, April 22). Controversies Surrounding ADHD Diagnosis, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/adhd/articles/controversies-surrounding-adhd-diagnosis

Last Updated: February 14, 2016

Exubera Diabetes Treatment - Exubera Patient Information

Brand Names: Exubera
Generic Name: insulin inhalation

Pronounced: IN soo lin in hel AY shun

Exubera, insulin inhalation, full prescribing information

What is Exubera and what is it used for?

Insulin inhalation (Exubera) was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2007 due to lack of consumer demand for the product. No drug safety concerns were cited in this withdrawal.

Exubera is a rapid-acting form of human insulin that is inhaled through the mouth. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

Exubera is used to treat type 1 (insulin dependent) or type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes in adults.

Important information about Exubera

Do not use Exubera if you smoke, or if you have recently quit smoking (within the past 6 months). If you start smoking while using Exubera, you will have to stop using this medication and switch to another form of insulin to control your blood sugar.

Before using Exubera, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or lung disorders such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

You should not Exubera if you have a lung disease that is not well controlled with medication or other treatments.

There are many other drugs that can potentially interfere with the glucose-lowering effects of Exubera. It is extremely important that you tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of insulin you use, your dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine given to you at the pharmacy.

If you use Exubera as a meal-time insulin, use it no more than 10 minutes before eating the meal.


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Exubera is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Before you take Exubera

Before using Exubera, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or lung disorders such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

You should not use Exubera if you have a lung disease that is not well controlled with medication or other treatments.

If you have type 1 diabetes, you should use Exubera in addition to another long-acting type of insulin.

If you have type 2 diabetes, this may be the only medication you use to control your blood sugar, or your doctor may prescribe another long-acting insulin or diabetes medicine you take by mouth.

Exubera is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of insulin you use, your dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine given to you at the pharmacy.

FDA pregnancy category C. Exubera may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Exubera can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use Exubera without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Exubera?

Use Exubera exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from Exubera.

If you use Exubera as a meal-time insulin, use it no more than 10 minutes before eating the meal.

To be sure Exubera is not causing certain side effects, your lung function will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Continue using Exubera if you have a cold or flu virus that causes upper respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, nasal congestion). Check your blood sugar carefully during a time of stress or illness, since this can also affect your glucose levels.

Exubera is a powder that is supplied in "dose blisters" on cards that are packaged in a clear plastic tray. This tray is sealed inside a foil pouch that also contains a moisture-absorbing preservative packet. The 1-milligram (mg) dose blisters are supplied on a card printed with green ink. The 3-mg dose blisters are supplied on a card printed with blue ink.

Each 1-milligram dose blister of Exubera powder is equal to 3 units of injectable insulin and each 3-milligram dose blister is equal to 8 units of injectable insulin. Using three of the 1-mg dose blisters will not give you the same amount of medicine as one 3-mg dose blister. You may receive too much insulin when using three 1-mg dose blisters together, which could result in hypoglycemia.

If you are combining 1-mg and 3-mg dose blisters to get your correct dose of insulin, always use the least number of blisters possible. For example, if your dose is 4 mg, use a 1-mg blister and a 3-mg blister (a total of two blisters). Do not use four 1-mg blisters or you may receive too much Exubera.

The inhaler unit supplied with Exubera includes a base, a chamber, and a release unit. Each release unit may be used for up to 2 weeks before replacing. You may use the inhaler for up to 1 year before replacing it.

Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect the medicine from moisture and humidity at all times. Do not store the medicine in a bathroom where you shower.

Once you have opened the foil pouch, keep the unused dose blisters in the pouch and use them within 3 months after opening the pouch. Keep the moisture-absorbing preservative packet contained in the foil pouch and do not open the packet or use its contents.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

If you use Exubera as meal-time insulin and you forget to use your dose before a meal, use the insulin when you remember and wait 10 minutes before eating.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of an Exubera overdose may be the same as signs of low blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, weakness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea.

What should I avoid while taking Exubera?

Do not smoke while using Exubera. You should not use this medication if you have smoked within the past 6 months. If you start smoking while using Exubera, you will have to stop using the medication and switch to another form of insulin to control your blood sugar.

Avoid letting your blood sugar get too low, causing hypoglycemia. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Exubera side effects

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is the most common side effect of Exubera. Watch for signs of low blood sugar, which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, or itching; wheezing, gasping for breath; fast heartbeat; sweating; feeling light-headed or fainting.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

  • cough, sore throat;
  • runny or stuffy nose;
  • dry mouth; or
  • ear pain.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Exubera?

There are many other drugs that can potentially interfere with the glucose-lowering effects of Exubera. It is extremely important that you tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

If you use other inhaled medications, use them before using Exubera.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has more information about Exubera written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Exubera only for the indication prescribed.

last revision 04/2008

Exubera, insulin inhalation, full prescribing information

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Diabetes

back to: Browse all Medications for Diabetes

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2008, April 1). Exubera Diabetes Treatment - Exubera Patient Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/diabetes/medications/exubera-inhaler-diabetes-treatment

Last Updated: July 21, 2014

Exubera for Treatment of Diabetes - Exubera Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: Exubera
Generic Name: insulin human

Dosage Form: inhalation powder

Contents:

Description
Clinical Pharmacology
Clinical Studies
Indications and Usage
Contraindications
Warnings
Precautions
Drug Interactions
Adverse Reactions
Overdosage
Dosage and Administration
How Supplied

Exubera, insulin human [rDNA origin] Patient information (in plain English)

Description

Exubera® consists of blisters containing human insulin inhalation powder, which are administered using the Exubera® Inhaler. Exubera blisters contain human insulin produced by recombinant DNA technology utilizing a non-pathogenic laboratory strain of Escherichia coli (K12). Chemically, human insulin has the empirical formula C257H383N65O77S6 and a molecular weight of 5808. Human insulin has the following primary amino acid sequence:

Human insulin primary amino acid sequence:

Exubera (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is a white to off-white powder in a unit dose blister (fill mass, see Table 1). Each unit dose blister of Exubera contains a 1 mg or 3 mg dose of insulin (see Table 1) in a homogeneous powder formulation containing sodium citrate (dihydrate), mannitol, glycine, and sodium hydroxide. After an Exubera blister is inserted into the inhaler, the patient pumps the handle of the inhaler and then presses a button, causing the blister to be pierced. The insulin inhalation powder is then dispersed into the chamber, allowing the patient to inhale the aerosolized powder.


 


Under standardized in vitro test conditions, Exubera delivers a specific emitted dose of insulin from the mouthpiece of the inhaler (see Table 1). A fraction of the total particle mass is emitted as fine particles capable of reaching the deep lung. Up to 45% of the 1 mg blister contents, and up to 25% of the 3 mg blister contents, may be retained in the blister.

Table 1: Dose Nomenclature and Information

Fill Mass
(mg powder)
Nominal Dose
(mg insulin)
Emitted Dose*,†
(mg insulin)
Fine Particle Dosec,†
(mg insulin)
* Flow rate of 30 L/min for 2.5 seconds
† Emitted dose and fine particle dose information are not intended to predict actual pharmacodynamic response.
c Flow rate of 28.3 L/min for 3 seconds
1.7 1.0 0.53 0.4
5.1 3.0 2.03 1.0

The actual amount of insulin delivered to the lung will depend on individual patient factors, such as inspiratory flow profile. In vitro, emitted aerosol metrics are unaffected at flow rates above 10 L/min.

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Clinical Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

The primary activity of insulin is regulation of glucose metabolism. Insulin lowers blood glucose concentrations by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake by skeletal muscle and fat, and by inhibiting hepatic glucose production. Insulin inhibits lipolysis in the adipocyte, inhibits proteolysis, and enhances protein synthesis.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Exubera delivers insulin by oral inhalation. The insulin is absorbed as quickly as subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs and more quickly than subcutaneously administered regular human insulin in healthy subjects and in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Mean Changes in Free Insulin Serum Concentrations ( µU/mL) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Following Administration of Single Doses of Inhaled Insulin from Exubera (6 mg) and Subcutaneous Regular Human Insulin (18U)

Mean Changes in Free Insulin Serum Concentrations

In clinical studies in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, after inhalation of Exubera, serum insulin reached peak concentration more quickly than after subcutaneous injection of regular human insulin, 49 minutes (range 30 to 90 minutes) compared to 105 minutes (range 60 to 240 minutes), respectively.

In clinical studies, the absorption of subcutaneous regular human insulin declined with increasing patient body mass index (BMI). However, the absorption of insulin following inhalation of Exubera was independent of BMI.

In a study in healthy subjects, systemic insulin exposure (AUC and Cmax) following administration of Exubera increased with dose over a range of 1 to 6 mg when administered as combinations of 1 and 3 mg blisters.

In a study where the dosage form of three 1 mg blisters was compared with one 3 mg blister, Cmax and AUC after administration of three 1 mg blisters were approximately 30% and 40% greater, respectively, than that after administration of one 3 mg blister (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Distribution and Elimination

Because recombinant human insulin is identical to endogenous insulin, the systemic distribution and elimination are expected to be the same. However, this has not been confirmed for Exubera.

Pharmacodynamics

Exubera, like subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs, has a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering activity than subcutaneously administered regular human insulin. In healthy volunteers, the duration of glucose-lowering activity for Exubera was comparable to subcutaneously administered regular human insulin and longer than subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs (see Figure 2).

Figure 2. Mean Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) Normalized to GIRmax for Each Subject Treatment Versus Time in Healthy Volunteers

Mean Glucose Infusion Rate

*Determined as amount of glucose infused to maintain constant plasma glucose concentrations, normalized to maximum values (percent of maximum values); indicative of insulin activity.

When Exubera is inhaled, the onset of glucose-lowering activity in healthy volunteers occurs within 10-20 minutes. The maximum effect on glucose lowering is exerted approximately 2 hours after inhalation. The duration of glucose-lowering activity is approximately 6 hours.

In patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, Exubera has a greater glucose-lowering effect within the first two hours after dosing when compared with subcutaneously administered regular human insulin.

The intra-subject variability of glucose-lowering activity of Exubera is generally comparable to that of subcutaneously administered regular human insulin in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes.

Special Populations

Pediatric Patients

In children (6-11 years) and adolescents (12-17 years) with type 1 diabetes, time to peak insulin concentration for Exubera was achieved faster than for subcutaneous regular human insulin, which is consistent with observations in adult patients with type 1 diabetes.

Geriatric Patients

There are no apparent differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of Exubera when comparing patients over the age of 65 years and younger adult patients.

Gender

In subjects with and without diabetes, no apparent differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of Exubera were observed between men and women.

Race

A study was performed in 25 healthy Caucasian and Japanese non-diabetic subjects to compare the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of Exubera, versus subcutaneous injection of regular human insulin. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of Exubera were comparable between the two populations.

Obesity

The absorption of Exubera is independent of patient BMI.

Renal Impairment

The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Exubera has not been studied. Careful glucose monitoring and dose adjustments of insulin may be necessary in patients with renal dysfunction (see PRECAUTIONS, Renal Impairment).

Hepatic Impairment

The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Exubera has not been studied. Careful glucose monitoring and dose adjustments of insulin may be necessary in patients with hepatic dysfunction (see PRECAUTIONS).

Pregnancy

The absorption of Exubera in pregnant patients with gestational and pre-gestational type 2 diabetes was consistent with that in non-pregnant patients with type 2 diabetes (see PRECAUTIONS).

Smoking

In smokers, the systemic insulin exposure for Exubera is expected to be 2 to 5 fold higher than in non-smokers. Exubera is contraindicated in patients who smoke or who have discontinued smoking less than 6 months prior to starting Exubera therapy. If a patient starts or resumes smoking, Exubera must be discontinued immediately due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia, and an alternative treatment must be utilized (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

In clinical studies of Exubera in 123 patients (69 of whom were smokers), smokers experienced a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering action, greater maximum effect, and a greater total glucose-lowering effect (particularly during the first 2-3 hours after dosing), compared to non-smokers.

Passive Cigarette Smoke

In contrast to the increase in insulin exposure following active smoking, when Exubera was administered to 30 healthy non-smoking volunteers following 2 hours of exposure to passive cigarette smoke in a controlled experimental setting, insulin AUC and Cmax were reduced by approximately 20% and 30%, respectively. The pharmacokinetics of Exubera have not been studied in nonsmokers who are chronically exposed to passive cigarette smoke.

Patients with Underlying Lung Diseases

The use of Exubera in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the safety and efficacy of Exubera in this population have not been established (see WARNINGS). The use of Exubera is contraindicated in patients with unstable or poorly controlled lung disease, because of wide variations in lung function that could affect the absorption of Exubera and increase the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

In a pharmacokinetic study in 24 non-diabetic subjects with mild asthma, the absorption of insulin following administration of Exubera, in the absence of treatment with a bronchodilator, was approximately 20% lower than the absorption seen in subjects without asthma. However, in a study in 24 non-diabetic subjects with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the systemic exposure following administration of Exubera was approximately two-fold higher than that in normal subjects without COPD (see PRECAUTIONS).

Administration of albuterol 30 minutes prior to administration of Exubera in non-diabetic subjects with both mild asthma (n=36) and moderate asthma (n=31) resulted in a mean increase in insulin AUC and Cmax of between 25 and 50% compared to when Exubera was administered alone (see PRECAUTIONS).

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Clinical Studies

The safety and efficacy of Exubera has been studied in approximately 2500 adult patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The primary efficacy parameter for most studies was glycemic control, as measured by the reduction from baseline in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

Type 1 Diabetes

A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study A) was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of Exubera administered pre-meal three times daily (TID) with a single nighttime injection of Humulin® U Ultralente® (human insulin extended zinc suspension) (n = 136). The comparator treatment was subcutaneous regular human insulin administered twice daily (BID) (pre-breakfast and pre-dinner) with BID injection of NPH human insulin (human insulin isophane suspension) (n = 132). In this study, the mean age was 38.2 years (range: 20-64) and 52% of the subjects were male.

A second 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study B) was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of Exubera (n = 103) compared to subcutaneous regular human insulin (n = 103) when administered TID prior to meals. In both treatment arms, NPH human insulin was administered BID (in the morning and at bedtime) as the basal insulin. In this study, the mean age was 38.4 years (range: 19-65) and 54% of the subjects were male.

In each study, the reduction in HbA1c and the rates of hypoglycemia were comparable for the two treatment groups. Exubera-treated patients had a greater reduction in fasting plasma glucose than patients in the comparator group. The percentage of patients reaching an HbA1c level of <8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct) and an HbA1c level of <7% was comparable between the two treatment groups. The results for Studies A and B are shown in Table 2.

Table 2: Results of Two 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label Trials in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes (Studies A and B)

Study AStudy B  
Exubera (TID) + UL (QD)SC R (BID) + NPH (BID)Exubera (TID) + NPH (BID)SC R (TID) + NPH (BID)
Sample Size136132103103
UL = Humulin® U Ultralente®; SC R = subcutaneous regular human insulin
* A negative treatment difference favors Exubera
† American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct
c 1 mg inhaled insulin from Exubera is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION)
HbA1c (%)        
Baseline mean 7.9 8.0 7.8 7.8
Adj. mean change from baseline -0.2 -0.4 -0.3 -0.2
Exubera minus SC R* 0.14 -0.11
95% CI for treatment difference (-0.03, 0.32) (-0.30, 0.08)
Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL)        
Baseline mean 191 198 178 191
Adj. mean change from baseline -32 -6 -23 13
Exubera minus SC R -27 -35
95% CI for treatment difference (-47, -6) (-58, -13)
2-hr Post-Prandial Glucose Concentration (mg/dL)        
Baseline mean 283 305 273 293
Adj. mean change from baseline -21 14 -1 -3
Exubera minus SC R -35 2
95% CI for treatment difference (-61, -8) (-29, 32)
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%† 64.0% 68.2% 74.8% 66.0%
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% 16.9% 19.7% 28.2% 30.1%
Body Weight        
Baseline mean (kg) 77.4 76.4 76.0 76.9
Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) 0.4 1.1 0.4 0.6
Exubera minus SC R -0.72 -0.24
95% CI for treatment difference (-1.48, 0.04) (-1.07, 0.59)
End of study daily insulin dose        
Short-acting insulin 13.4 mgc 18.3 IU 10.9 mgc 25.7 IU
Long-acting insulin 26.4 IU 37.1 IU 31.5 IU 31.9 IU

 

Type 2 Diabetes

Monotherapy in Patients Not Optimally Controlled With Diet and Exercise Treatment

A 12-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study C) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes not optimally controlled with diet and exercise, assessing the safety and efficacy of pre-meal TID Exubera (n = 75) compared to an insulin-sensitizing agent. In this study, the mean age was 53.7 years (range: 28-80), 55% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 32.3 kg/m2.

At 12 weeks, HbA1c levels in patients treated with Exubera decreased 2.2% (SD = 1.0) from a baseline of 9.5% (SD = 1.1). The proportion of patients treated with Exubera reaching an end-of-study HbA1c level of <8% increased to 82.7%. The proportion of patients treated with Exubera reaching an end-of-study HbA1c level of

Monotherapy and Add-On Therapy in Patients Previously Treated With Oral Agent Therapy

A 12-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study D) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes who were currently receiving treatment, but were poorly controlled, with two oral agents (OA). Baseline OAs included an insulin secretagogue, and either metformin or a thiazolidinedione. Patients were randomized to one of three arms: continuing OA therapy alone (n = 96), switching to pre-meal TID Exubera monotherapy (n = 102) or adding pre-meal TID Exubera to continued OA therapy (n = 100). In this study, the mean age was 57.4 years (range: 33-80), 66% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 30 kg/m2.

Exubera monotherapy and Exubera in combination with OA therapy were superior to OA therapy alone in reducing HbA1c levels from baseline. The rates of hypoglycemia for the two Exubera treatment groups were slightly higher than in the OA therapy alone group. Compared to OA therapy alone, the percentage of patients reaching an HbA1c level of <8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at time of study conduct) and an HbA1c level of <7% was greater for patients treated with Exubera monotherapy and Exubera in combination with OA therapy. Patients in both Exubera treatment groups had greater reductions in fasting plasma glucose than patients treated with OA therapy alone. The results for Study D are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Results of a 12-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label Trial in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Not Optimally Controlled With Dual Oral Agent Therapy (Study D)

Study DExubera monotherapy OAs* Exubera + OAs
Sample Size102 96 100
* OAs = treatment with two oral agents (an insulin secretagogue in addition to metformin or a thiazolidinedione)
† A negative treatment difference favors Exubera
c Comparison of Exubera monotherapy to combination oral agent therapy alone
§ p < 0.0001
Comparison of Exubera plus oral agents to combination oral agent therapy alone
# American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct
HbA1c (%)          
Baseline mean 9.3   9.3   9.2
Adj. mean change from baseline -1.4   -0.2   -1.9
Exubera group minus OAs† -1.18†,c, §   -1.67†,, §
95% CI for treatment difference (-1.41, -0.95)   (-1.90, -1.44)
Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL)          
Baseline mean 203   203   195
Adj. mean change from baseline -23   1   -53
Exubera group minus OAs -24c   -53
95% CI for treatment difference (-36, -11)   (-66, -41)
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%# 55.9%   18.8%   86.0%
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% 16.7%   1.0%   32.0%
Body Weight          
Baseline mean (kg) 89.5   88.0   88.6
Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) 2.8   0.0   2.7
Exubera group minus OAs 2.80c   2.75
95% CI for treatment difference (1.94, 3.65)   (1.89, 3.61)

A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study E) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes, currently receiving sulfonylurea therapy. This study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of the addition of pre-meal Exubera to continued sulfonylurea therapy (n = 214) compared to the addition of pre-meal metformin to continued sulfonylurea therapy (n = 196). Subjects were stratified according to their HbA1c at Week -1. Two strata were defined: a low HbA1c stratum (HbA1c ≥8% to ≤9.5%) and a high HbA1c stratum (HbA1c >9.5 to ≤12%).

Exubera in combination with sulfonylurea was superior to metformin and sulfonylurea in reducing HbA1c values from baseline in the high stratum group. Exubera in combination with sulfonylurea was comparable to metformin in combination with sulfonylurea in reducing HbA1c values from baseline in the low stratum group. The rate of hypoglycemia was higher after the addition of Exubera to sulfonylurea than after the addition of metformin to sulfonylurea. The percentage of patients reaching target HbA1c values of 8% and 7% was comparable between treatment groups in both strata, as was reduction in fasting plasma glucose (see Table 4).

Another 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study F) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes, currently receiving metformin therapy. This study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of the addition of pre-meal Exubera to continued metformin therapy (n = 234) compared to the addition of pre-meal glibenclamide to continued metformin therapy (n = 222). Subjects in this study were also stratified to one of two strata as defined in Study E.

Exubera in combination with metformin was superior to glibenclamide and metformin in reducing HbA1c values from baseline and achieving target HbA1c values in the high stratum group. Exubera in combination with metformin was comparable to glibenclamide in combination with metformin in reducing HbA1c values from baseline and achieving target HbA1c values in the low stratum group. The rate of hypoglycemia was slightly higher after the addition of Exubera to metformin than after the addition of glibenclamide to metformin. Reduction in fasting plasma glucose was comparable between treatment groups (see Table 4).

Table 4: Results of Two 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label Trials in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Previously On Oral Agent Therapy (Studies E and F)

 Study EStudy F
 Exubera + SU*Met*+ SU*Exubera + SU*Met*+ SU*Exubera + Met*Gli* + Met*Exubera + Met*Gli* + Met*
 High stratum†Low stratum†High stratum†Low stratum†
Sample Size11310310193109103125119
* SU = sulfonylurea, Met = metformin, Gli = glibenclamide
† Low stratum = entry HbA1c ≥8.0% to ≤9.5%; high stratum = entry HbA1c >9.5% to ≤12%
c A negative treatment difference favors Exubera
§ p = 0.002
p = 0.004
# American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct
HbA1c (%)        
Baseline mean 10.5 10.6 8.8 8.8 10.4 10.6 8.6 8.7
Adj. mean change from baseline -2.2 -1.8 -1.9 -1.9 -2.2 -1.9 -1.8 -1.9
Exubera minus OAc -0.38c, § -0.07 -0.37c, 0.04
95% CI for treatment difference (-0.63, -0.14) (-0.33, 0.19) (-0.62, -0.12) (-0.19, 0.27)
Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL)        
Baseline mean 241 237 197 198 223 243 187 196
Mean change from baseline -46 -47 -48 -52 -42 -40 -46 -49
Exubera minus OA 1 4 -2 4
95% CI for treatment difference (-11, 12) (-8, 16) (-14, 10) (-7, 15)
Subjects with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%# 48.7% 44.7% 81.2% 73.1% 72.5% 56.3% 80.8% 86.6%
Subjects with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% 20.4% 14.6% 30.7% 32.3% 33.9% 17.5% 40.0% 42.9%
Body Weight        
Baseline mean (kg) 80.8 79.5 79.9 81.9 88.3 87.8 90.3 88.2
Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) 3.6 -0.0 2.4 -0.3 2.8 2.5 2.0 1.6
Exubera minus OA 3.60 2.67 0.26 0.38
95% CI for treatment difference (2.81, 4.39) (1.84, 3.51) (-0.70, 1.21) (-0.52, 1.27)

 

Use in Patients Previously Treated With Subcutaneous Insulin

A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study G) was conducted in insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of Exubera administered pre-meal TID with a single nighttime injection of Humulin® U Ultralente® (n = 146) compared to subcutaneous regular human insulin administered BID (pre-breakfast and pre-dinner) with BID injection of NPH human insulin (n = 149). In this study, the mean age was 57.5 years (range: 23-80), 66% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 30.3 kg/m2.

The reductions from baseline in HbA1c, percent of patients reaching an HbA1c level of <8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at time of study conduct) and an HbA1c level of <7%, as well as the rates of hypoglycemia, were similar between treatment groups. Exubera-treated patients had a greater reduction in fasting plasma glucose than patients in the comparator group. The results for Study G are shown in Table 5.

Table 5: Results of a 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label Trial in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Previously Treated With Subcutaneous Insulin (Study G)

Study GExubera (TID) + UL (QD)SC R (BID) + NPH (BID)
Sample Size146149
UL = Humulin® U Ultralente®; SC R = subcutaneous regular human insulin
* A negative treatment difference favors Exubera
† American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct
c 1 mg inhaled insulin from Exubera is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
HbA1c (%)    
Baseline mean 8.1 8.2
Adj. mean change from baseline -0.7 -0.6
Exubera minus SC R* -0.07
95% CI for treatment difference (-0.31, 0.17)
Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL)    
Baseline mean 152 159
Adj. mean change from baseline -22 -6
Exubera minus SC R -16.36
95% CI for treatment difference (-27.09, -5.36)
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%† 76.0% 69.1%
Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% 45.2% 32.2%
Body Weight  
Baseline mean (kg) 90.6 89.0
Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) 0.1 1.3
Exubera minus SC R -1.28
95% CI for treatment difference (-1.96, -0.60)
End of study daily insulin dose  
Short-acting insulin 16.6 mgc 25.5 IU
Long-acting insulin 37.9 IU 52.3 IU

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Indications and Usage

Exubera is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with diabetes mellitus for the control of hyperglycemia. Exubera has an onset of action similar to rapid-acting insulin analogs and has a duration of glucose-lowering activity comparable to subcutaneously administered regular human insulin. In patients with type 1 diabetes, Exubera should be used in regimens that include a longer-acting insulin. In patients with type 2 diabetes, Exubera can be used as monotherapy or in combination with oral agents or longer-acting insulins.

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Contraindications

Exubera is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Exubera or one of its excipients.

Exubera is contraindicated in patients who smoke or who have discontinued smoking less than 6 months prior to starting Exubera therapy. If a patient starts or resumes smoking, Exubera must be discontinued immediately due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia, and an alternative treatment must be utilized (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Smoking). The safety and efficacy of Exubera in patients who smoke have not been established.

Exubera is contraindicated in patients with unstable or poorly controlled lung disease, because of wide variations in lung function that could affect the absorption of Exubera and increase the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

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Warnings

Exubera differs from regular human insulin by its rapid onset of action. When used as mealtime insulin, the dose of Exubera should be given within 10 minutes before a meal.

Hypoglycemia is the most commonly reported adverse event of insulin therapy, including Exubera. The timing of hypoglycemia may differ among various insulin formulations.

Patients with type 1 diabetes also require a longer-acting insulin to maintain adequate glucose control.

Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision. Changes in insulin strength, manufacturer, type (e.g., regular, NPH, analogs), or species (animal, human) may result in the need for a change in dosage. Concomitant oral antidiabetic treatment may need to be adjusted.

Glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients with diabetes.

Because of the effect of Exubera on pulmonary function, all patients should have pulmonary function assessed prior to initiating therapy with Exubera (see PRECAUTIONS: Pulmonary Function).

The use of Exubera in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the safety and efficacy of Exubera in this population have not been established (see PRECAUTIONS: Underlying Lung Disease).

In clinical trials of Exubera, there have been 6 newly diagnosed cases of primary lung malignancies among Exubera-treated patients, and 1 newly diagnosed case among comparator-treated patients. There has also been 1 postmarketing report of a primary lung malignancy in an Exubera-treated patient. In controlled clinical trials of Exubera, the incidence of new primary lung cancer per 100 patient-years of study drug exposure was 0.13 (5 cases over 3900 patient-years) for Exubera-treated patients and 0.02 (1 case over 4100 patient-years) for comparator-treated patients. There were too few cases to determine whether the emergence of these events is related to Exubera. All patients who were diagnosed with lung cancer had a prior history of cigarette smoking.

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Precautions

General

As with all insulin preparations, the time course of Exubera action may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual. Adjustment of dosage of any insulin may be necessary if patients change their physical activity or their usual meal plan. Insulin requirements may be altered during intercurrent conditions such as illness, emotional disturbances, or stress.

Hypoglycemia

As with all insulin preparations, hypoglycemic reactions may be associated with the administration of Exubera. Rapid changes in serum glucose concentrations may induce symptoms similar to hypoglycemia in persons with diabetes, regardless of the glucose value. Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, use of medications such as beta-blockers, or intensified diabetes control (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions). Such situations may result in severe hypoglycemia (and, possibly, loss of consciousness) prior to patients' awareness of hypoglycemia.

Renal Impairment

Studies have not been performed in patients with renal impairment. As with other insulin preparations, the dose requirements for Exubera may be reduced in patients with renal impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).

Hepatic Impairment

Studies have not been performed in patients with hepatic impairment. As with other insulin preparations, the dose requirements for Exubera may be reduced in patients with hepatic impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).

Allergy

Systemic Allergy

In clinical studies, the overall incidence of allergic reactions in patients treated with Exubera was similar to that in patients using subcutaneous regimens with regular human insulin.

As with other insulin preparations, rare, but potentially serious, generalized allergy to insulin may occur, which may cause rash (including pruritus) over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, rapid pulse, or sweating. Severe cases of generalized allergy, including anaphylactic reactions, may be life threatening. If such reactions occur from Exubera, Exubera should be stopped and alternative therapies considered.

Antibody Production

Insulin antibodies may develop during treatment with all insulin preparations including Exubera. In clinical studies of Exubera where the comparator was subcutaneous insulin, increases in insulin antibody levels (as reflected by assays of insulin binding activity) were significantly greater for patients who received Exubera than for patients who received subcutaneous insulin only. No clinical consequences of these antibodies were identified over the time period of clinical studies of Exubera; however, the long-term clinical significance of this increase in antibody formation is unknown.


 


Respiratory

Pulmonary Function

In clinical trials up to two years duration, patients treated with Exubera demonstrated a greater decline in pulmonary function, specifically the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO), than comparator-treated patients. The mean treatment group difference in pulmonary function favoring the comparator group, was noted within the first several weeks of treatment with Exubera, and did not change over the two year treatment period (See ADVERSE REACTIONS: Pulmonary Function).

During the controlled clinical trials, individual patients experienced notable declines in pulmonary function in both treatment groups. A decline from baseline FEV1 of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 1.5% of Exubera-treated and 1.3% of comparator-treated patients. A decline from baseline DLCO of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 5.1% of Exubera-treated and 3.6% of comparator treated patients.

Because of the effect of Exubera on pulmonary function, all patients should have spirometry (FEV1) assessed prior to initiating therapy with Exubera. Assessment of DLCO should be considered. The efficacy and safety of Exubera in patients with baseline FEV1 or DLCO < 70% predicted have not been established and the use of Exubera in this population is not recommended.

Assessment of pulmonary function (e.g., spirometry) is recommended after the first 6 months of therapy, and annually thereafter, even in the absence of pulmonary symptoms. In patients who have a decline of ≥ 20% in FEV1 from baseline, pulmonary function tests should be repeated. If the ≥ 20% decline from baseline FEV1 is confirmed, Exubera should be discontinued. The presence of pulmonary symptoms and lesser declines in pulmonary function may require more frequent monitoring of pulmonary function and consideration of discontinuation of Exubera.

Underlying Lung Disease

The use of Exubera in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the efficacy and safety of Exubera in this population have not been established.

Bronchospasm

Bronchospasm has been rarely reported in patients taking Exubera. Patients experiencing such a reaction should discontinue Exubera and seek medical evaluation immediately. Re-administration of Exubera requires a careful risk evaluation, and should only be done under close medical monitoring with appropriate clinical facilities available.

Intercurrent Respiratory Illness

Exubera has been administered to patients with intercurrent respiratory illness (e.g. bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections, rhinitis) during clinical studies. In patients experiencing these conditions, 3-4% temporarily discontinued Exubera therapy. There was no increased risk of hypoglycemia or worsened glycemic control observed in Exubera-treated patients compared to patients treated with subcutaneous insulin. During intercurrent respiratory illness, close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations, and dose adjustment, may be required.

Information for Patients

Patients should be instructed on self-management procedures including glucose monitoring; proper Exubera inhalation technique; and hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia management. Patients must be instructed on handling of special situations such as intercurrent conditions (illness, stress, or emotional disturbances), an inadequate or skipped insulin dose, inadvertent administration of an increased insulin dose, inadequate food intake, or skipped meals.

Patients should be informed that in clinical studies, treatment with Exubera was associated with small, non-progressive mean declines in pulmonary function relative to comparator treatments. Because of the effect of Exubera on pulmonary function, pulmonary function tests are recommended prior to initiating treatment with Exubera. Following initiation of therapy, periodic pulmonary function tests are recommended (see PRECAUTIONS Respiratory, Pulmonary Function).

Patients should inform their physician if they have a history of lung disease, because the use of Exubera is not recommended in patients with underlying lung disease (e.g., asthma or COPD), and is contraindicated in patients with poorly controlled lung disease.

Women with diabetes should be advised to inform their doctor if they are pregnant or are contemplating pregnancy.

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Drug Interactions

A number of substances affect glucose metabolism and may require insulin dose adjustment and particularly close monitoring.

The following are examples of substances that may reduce the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin that may result in hyperglycemia: corticosteroids, danazol, diazoxide, diuretics, sympathomimetic agents (e.g., epinephrine, albuterol, terbutaline), glucagon, isoniazid, phenothiazine derivatives, somatropin, thyroid hormones, estrogens, progestogens (e.g., in oral contraceptives), protease inhibitors, and atypical antipsychotic medications (e.g., olanzapine and clozapine).

The following are examples of substances that may increase the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin and susceptibility to hypoglycemia: oral antidiabetic products, ACE inhibitors, disopyramide, fibrates, fluoxetine, MAO inhibitors, pentoxifylline, propoxyphene, salicylates, and sulfonamide antibiotics.

Beta-blockers, clonidine, lithium salts, and alcohol may either increase or reduce the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin. Pentamidine may cause hypoglycemia, which may sometimes be followed by hyperglycemia.

In addition, under the influence of sympatholytic medicinal products such as beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine, and reserpine, the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia may be reduced or absent.

Bronchodilators and other inhaled products may alter the absorption of inhaled human insulin (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations). Consistent timing of dosing of bronchodilators relative to Exubera administration, close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations and dose titration as appropriate are recommended.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Two-year carcinogenicity studies in animals have not been performed. Insulin was not mutagenic in the Ames bacterial reverse mutation test in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.

In Sprague-Dawley rats, a 6-month repeat-dose toxicity study was conducted with insulin inhalation powder at doses up to 5.8 mg/kg/day (compared to the clinical starting dose of 0.15 mg/kg/day, the rat high dose was 39 times or 8.3 times the clinical dose, based on either a mg/kg or a mg/m2 body surface area comparison). In Cynomolgus monkeys, a 6-month repeat-dose toxicity study was conducted with inhaled insulin at doses up to 0.64 mg/kg/day. Compared to the clinical starting dose of 0.15 mg/kg/day, the monkey high dose was 4.3 times or 1.4 times the clinical dose, based on either a mg/kg or a mg/m2 body surface area comparison. These were maximum tolerated doses based on hypoglycemia.

Compared to control animals, there were no treatment-related adverse effects in either species on pulmonary function, gross or microscopic morphology of the respiratory tract or bronchial lymph nodes. Similarly, there was no effect on cell proliferation indices in alveolar or bronchiolar area of the lung in either species.

Because recombinant human insulin is identical to the endogenous hormone, reproductive/fertility studies were not performed in animals.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic Effects

Pregnancy Category C

Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with Exubera. It is also not known whether Exubera can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or whether Exubera can affect reproductive capacity. Exubera should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

Nursing Mothers

Many drugs, including human insulin, are excreted in human milk. For this reason, caution should be exercised when Exubera is administered to a nursing woman. Patients with diabetes who are lactating may require adjustments in Exubera dose, meal plan, or both.

Pediatric Use

Long-term safety and effectiveness of Exubera in pediatric patients have not been established (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).

Geriatric Use

In controlled Phase 2/3 clinical studies (n=1975), Exubera was administered to 266 patients ≥65 years of age and 30 patients ≥75 years of age. The majority of these patients had type 2 diabetes. The change in HbA1C and rate of hypoglycemia did not differ by age.

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Adverse Reactions

The safety of Exubera alone, or in combination with subcutaneous insulin or oral agents, has been evaluated in approximately 2500 adult patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who were exposed to Exubera. Approximately 2000 patients were exposed to Exubera for greater than 6 months and more than 800 patients were exposed for more than 2 years.

Non-Respiratory Adverse Events

Non-respiratory adverse events reported in ≥1% of 1977 Exubera-treated patients in controlled Phase 2/3 clinical studies, regardless of causality, include (but are not limited to) the following:

Metabolic and Nutritional: hypoglycemia (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

Body as a whole: chest pain

Digestive: dry mouth

Special senses: otitis media (type 1 pediatric diabetics)

Hypoglycemia

The rates and incidence of hypoglycemia were comparable between Exubera and subcutaneous regular human insulin in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 2 patients who were not adequately controlled with single oral agent therapy, the addition of Exubera was associated with a higher rate of hypoglycemia than was the addition of a second oral agent.

Chest pain

A range of different chest symptoms were reported as adverse reactions and were grouped under the non-specific term chest pain. These events occurred in 4.7% of Exubera-treated patients and 3.2% of patients in comparator groups. The majority (>90%) of these events were reported as mild or moderate. Two patients in the Exubera and one in the comparator group discontinued treatment due to chest pain. The incidence of all-causality adverse events related to coronary artery disease, such as angina pectoris or myocardial infarction was comparable in the Exubera (0.7% angina pectoris; 0.7% myocardial infarction) and comparator (1.3% angina pectoris; 0.7% myocardial infarction) treatment groups.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth was reported in 2.4% of Exubera-treated patients and 0.8% of patients in comparator groups. Nearly all (>98%) of dry mouth reported was mild or moderate. No patients discontinued treatment due to dry mouth.

Ear Events in Pediatric Diabetics

Pediatric type 1 diabetics in Exubera groups experienced adverse events related to the ear more frequently than did pediatric type 1 diabetics in treatment groups receiving only subcutaneous insulin. These events included otitis media (Exubera 6.5%; SC 3.4%), ear pain (Exubera 3.9%; SC 1.4%), and ear disorder (Exubera 1.3%; SC 0%).

Respiratory Adverse Events

Table 6 shows the incidence of respiratory adverse events for each treatment group that were reported in ≥1% of any treatment group in controlled Phase 2 and 3 clinical studies, regardless of causality.

Table 6: Respiratory Adverse Events Reported in ≥1% of Any Treatment Group in Controlled Phase 2 and 3 Clinical Studies, Regardless of Causality

Percent of Patients Reporting Event  
Adverse EventType 1 DiabetesType 2 Diabetes
Exubera
N = 698
SC
N = 705
Exubera
N = 1279
SC
N = 488
OAs
N = 644
SC = subcutaneous insulin comparator; OA = oral agent comparators
Respiratory Tract Infection 43.3 42.0 29.2 38.1 19.7
Cough Increased 29.5 8.8 21.9 10.2 3.7
Pharyngitis 18.2 16.6 9.5 9.6 5.9
Rhinitis 14.5 10.9 8.8 10.5 3.0
Sinusitis 10.3 7.4 5.4 10.0 2.3
Respiratory Disorder 7.4 4.1 6.1 10.2 1.7
Dyspnea 4.4 0.9 3.6 2.5 1.4
Sputum Increased 3.9 1.3 2.8 1.0 0.5
Bronchitis 3.2 4.1 5.4 3.9 4.0
Asthma 1.3 1.3 2.0 2.3 0.5
Epistaxis 1.3 0.4 1.2 0.4 0.8
Laryngitis 1.1 0.4 0.5 0.4 0.3
Pneumonia 0.9 1.1 0.9 1.6 0.6
Voice Alteration 0.1 0.1 1.3 0.0 0.3

Cough

In 3 clinical studies, patients who completed a cough questionnaire reported that the cough tended to occur within seconds to minutes after Exubera inhalation, was predominantly mild in severity and was rarely productive in nature. The incidence of this cough decreased with continued Exubera use. In controlled clinical studies, 1.2% of patients discontinued Exubera treatment due to cough.

Dyspnea

Nearly all (>97%) of dyspnea was reported as mild or moderate. A small number of Exubera-treated patients (0.4%) discontinued treatment due to dyspnea compared to 0.1% of comparator-treated patients.

Other Respiratory Adverse Events - Pharyngitis, Sputum Increased and Epistaxis

The majority of these events were reported as mild or moderate. A small number of Exubera-treated patients discontinued treatment due to pharyngitis (0.2%) and sputum increased (0.1%); no patients discontinued treatment due to epistaxis.

Pulmonary Function

The effect of Exubera on the respiratory system has been evaluated in over 3800 patients in controlled phase 2 and 3 clinical studies (in which 1977 patients were treated with Exubera). In randomized, open-label clinical trials up to two years duration, patients treated with Exubera demonstrated a greater decline in pulmonary function, specifically the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO), than comparator treated patients. The mean treatment group differences in FEV1 and DLCO, were noted within the first several weeks of treatment with Exubera, and did not progress over the two year treatment period. In one completed controlled clinical trial in patients with type 2 diabetes following two years of treatment with Exubera, patients showed resolution of the treatment group difference in FEV1 six weeks after discontinuation of therapy. Resolution of the effect of Exubera on pulmonary function in patients with type 1 diabetes has not been studied after long-term treatment.

Figures 3 through 6 display the mean FEV1 and DLCO change from baseline versus time from two ongoing randomized, open-label, two year studies in 580 patients with type 1 and 620 patients with type 2 diabetes.

Figure 3: Change from Baseline FEV1 (L) in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes (Mean +/-Standard Deviation)

Change from Baseline

Figure 4: Change from Baseline FEV1 (L) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)

Change from Baseline

Following 2 years of Exubera treatment in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the difference between treatment groups for the mean change from baseline FEV1 was approximately 40 mL, favoring the comparator.

Figure 5: Change from Baseline DLco (mL/min/mmHg) in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)

Change from Baseline

Figure 6: Change from Baseline DLco (mL/min/mmHg) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)

Change from Baseline

Following 2 years of Exubera treatment, the difference between treatment groups for the mean change from baseline DLCO was approximately 0.5mL/min/mmHg (type 1 diabetes), favoring the comparator, and approximately 0.1mL/min/mmHg (type 2 diabetes), favoring Exubera.

During the two-year clinical trials, individual patients experienced notable declines in pulmonary function in both treatment groups. A decline from baseline FEV1 of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 1.5% of Exubera-treated and 1.3% of comparator-treated patients. A decline from baseline DLCO of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 5.1% of Exubera-treated and 3.6% of comparator treated patients.

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Overdosage

Hypoglycemia may occur as a result of an excess of insulin relative to food intake, energy expenditure, or both.

Mild to moderate episodes of hypoglycemia usually can be treated with oral glucose. Adjustments in drug dosage, meal patterns, or exercise, may be needed.

Severe episodes of hypoglycemia with coma, seizure, or neurologic impairment may be treated with intramuscular/subcutaneous glucagon or concentrated intravenous glucose. Sustained carbohydrate intake and observation may be necessary because hypoglycemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery.

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Dosage and Administration

Exubera, like rapid-acting insulin analogs, has a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering activity compared to subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. Exubera has a duration of glucose-lowering activity comparable to subcutaneously injected regular human insulin and longer than rapid-acting insulin. Exubera doses should be administered immediately prior to meals (no more than 10 minutes prior to each meal).

In patients with type 1 diabetes, Exubera should be used in regimens that include a longer-acting insulin. For patients with type 2 diabetes, Exubera may be used as monotherapy or in combination with oral agents or longer-acting insulin.

Because of the effect of Exubera on pulmonary function, all patients should have pulmonary function assessed prior to initiating therapy with Exubera. Periodic monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended for patients being treated with Exubera (see PRECAUTIONS, Pulmonary Function).

Exubera is intended for administration by inhalation and must only be administered using the Exubera® Inhaler. Refer to the Exubera Medication Guide for a description of the Exubera® Inhaler and for instructions on how to use the inhaler.

Calculation of Initial Pre-Meal Exubera Dose

The initial dosage of Exubera should be individualized and determined based on the physician's advice in accordance with the needs of the patient. Recommended initial pre-meal doses are based on clinical trials in which patients were requested to eat three meals per day. Initial pre-meal doses may be calculated using the following formula: [Body weight (kg) X 0.05 mg/kg = pre-meal dose (mg)] rounded down to the nearest whole milligram number (e.g., 3.7 mg rounded down to 3 mg).

Approximate guidelines for initial, pre-meal Exubera doses, based on patient body weight, are indicated in Table 7:

Table 7: Approximate Guidelines for Initial, Pre-Meal Exubera Dose (based on patient body weight)

Patient Weight
(in kg)
Patient Weight
(in lb)
Initial Dose per MealNumber of 1 mg Blisters per DoseNumber of 3 mg Blisters per Dose
30 to 39.9 kg 66 - 87 lb 1 mg per meal 1 -
40 to 59.9 kg 88 - 132 lb 2 mg per meal 2 -
60 to 79.9 kg 133 - 176 lb 3 mg per meal - 1
80 to 99.9 kg 177 - 220 lb 4 mg per meal 1 1
100 to 119.9 kg 221- 264 lb 5 mg per meal 2 1
120 to 139.9 kg 265 - 308 lb 6 mg per meal - 2

A 1 mg blister of Exubera inhaled insulin is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. A 3 mg blister of Exubera inhaled insulin is approximately equivalent to 8 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. Table 8 provides the approximate IU dose of regular subcutaneous human insulin for Exubera inhaled insulin doses from 1 mg to 6 mg.

Table 8: Approximate Equivalent IU Dose of Regular Human Subcutaneous Insulin for Exubera Inhaled Insulin Doses Ranging from 1 mg to 6 mg

Dose (mg)Approximate Regular Insulin SC Dose in IUNumber of 1 mg Exubera Blisters per DoseNumber of 3 mg Exubera Blisters per Dose
1 mg 3 1 -
2 mg 6 2 -
3 mg 8 - 1
4 mg 11 1 1
5 mg 14 2 1
6 mg 16 - 2

Patients should combine 1 mg and 3 mg blisters so that the least number of blisters per dose are taken (e.g., a 4 mg dose should be administered as one 1 mg blister and one 3 mg blister). Consecutive inhalation of three 1 mg unit dose blisters results in significantly greater insulin exposure than inhalation of one 3 mg unit dose blister. Therefore, three 1 mg doses should not be substituted for one 3 mg dose (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Pharmacokinetics). When a patient is stabilized on a dosing regimen that includes 3 mg blisters, and the 3 mg blisters become temporarily unavailable, the patient can temporarily substitute two 1 mg blisters for one 3 mg blister. Blood glucose should be monitored closely.

As with all insulins, additional factors that should be taken into consideration when determining the Exubera starting dose include, but are not limited to, patient's current glycemic control, previous response to insulin, duration of diabetes, and dietary and exercise habits.

Considerations for Dose Titration

After initiating Exubera therapy, as with other glucose-lowering agents, dose adjustment may be required based on the patient's need (e.g., blood glucose concentrations, meal size and nutrient composition, time of day and recent or anticipated exercise). Each patient should be titrated to their optimal dosage based on blood glucose monitoring results.

As for all insulins, the time course of Exubera action may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual.

Exubera may be used during intercurrent respiratory illness (e.g., bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infection, rhinitis). Close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations and dose adjustment may be required on an individual basis. Inhaled medicinal products (e.g. bronchodilators) should be administered prior to administration of Exubera.

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How Supplied

Exubera (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is available in 1 mg and 3 mg unit dose blisters. The blisters are dispensed on perforated cards of six unit dose blisters (PVC/Aluminum). The two strengths are differentiated by color print and tactile marks that can be differentiated by touch. The 1 mg blisters and respective perforated cards are printed with green ink and the cards are marked with one raised bar. The 3 mg blisters and respective perforated cards are printed with blue ink and the cards are marked with three raised bars.

Five blister cards are packaged in a clear plastic (PET) thermoformed tray. Each PET tray also contains a desiccant and is covered with a clear plastic (PET) lid. The tray of five blister cards (30 unit dose blisters) is sealed in a foil laminate pouch with a desiccant.

Exubera (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder blisters, an Exubera® Inhaler, and replacement Exubera® Release Units are required to initiate therapy with Exubera and are provided in the Exubera Kit. A fully assembled Exubera® Inhaler consists of the inhaler base, a chamber, and an Exubera® Release Unit. A fully assembled Inhaler is packaged with a replacement Chamber and is available in the Exubera Kit and as a separate unit. The Chamber is also available as an individual component.

Exubera® Release Units are individually packaged in a sealed thermoformed tray. One Exubera® Release Unit is included in each fully assembled Inhaler. Two additional Release Units are provided in the Exubera Kit and in each Combination Pack. Exubera Release Units are also available individually.

See Tables 9 and 10 for a description of these configurations.

Table 9

Exubera (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is available as follows:
DescriptionContentsNDC
Exubera KIT 1 Exubera Inhaler
1 Replacement Chamber
1 mg × 180 blisters
3 mg × 90 blisters
2 Exubera® Release Units
0069-0050-85
Exubera Combination Pack 12 1 mg × 90 blisters
3 mg × 90 blisters
2 Exubera® Release Units
0069-0050-19
Exubera Combination Pack 15 1 mg × 180 blisters
3 mg × 90 blisters
2 Exubera® Release Units
0069-0050-53
Exubera 1 mg Patient Pack 90 × 1 mg
2 Exubera® Release Units
0069-0707-37
Exubera 3 mg Patient Pack 90 × 3 mg
2 Exubera® Release Units
0069-0724-37

Table 10

Exubera® Inhaler and Components are available as follows:
DescriptionContentsNDC
Exubera® Inhaler & Chamber 1 Exubera® Inhaler
1 Replacement Chamber
0069-0054-19
Exubera® Release Units 2 Exubera® Release Units 0069-0097-41
Exubera® Chamber 1 Replacement Chamber 0069-0061-19

Blister Storage

Not in-use (Unopened): Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate.

In-use: Once the foil overwrap is opened, unit dose blisters should be protected from moisture, stored at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate. Unit dose blisters should be used within 3 months after opening the foil overwrap. Return the blisters to the overwrap to protect from moisture. Additional care should be taken to avoid humid environments, e.g. steamy bathroom following a shower.

Discard blister if frozen.

Inhaler Storage

Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate.

The Exubera® Inhaler can be used for up to 1 year from the date of first use.

Replacing The Exubera® Release Unit

The Exubera® Release Unit in the Exubera® Inhaler should be changed every 2 weeks.

Keep out of reach of children

Rx only

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LAB-0331-12.0

last revision 04/2008

Exubera, insulin human [rDNA origin] Patient information (in plain English)

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Diabetes


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.

back to: Browse all Medications for Diabetes

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2008, April 1). Exubera for Treatment of Diabetes - Exubera Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/diabetes/medications/exubera-inhaler-prescribing-information

Last Updated: March 10, 2016

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Last Updated: January 14, 2014

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APA Reference
(2008, February 28). Thursday, February 28, 2008, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/healthyplace/artical/Thursday%2C-February-28%2C-2008

Last Updated: January 14, 2014

Avandia for Treatment of Diabetes - Avandia Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: AVANDIA
Generic Name: rosiglitazone maleate

Contents:

Indications and Usage
Dosage and Administration
Dosage Forms and Strenghts
Contraindications
Warnings and Precautions
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
Use in Specific Populations
Overdosage
Description
Clinical Pharmacology
Nonclinical Toxicology
Clinical Studies
How Supplied

Avandia, rosiglitazone maleate, patient information (in plain English)

WARNING

CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE AND MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA

  • Thiazolidinediones, including rosiglitazone, cause or exacerbate congestive heart failure in some patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. After initiation of AVANDIA, and after dose increases, observe patients carefully for signs and symptoms of heart failure (including excessive, rapid weight gain, dyspnea, and/or edema). If these signs and symptoms develop, the heart failure should be managed according to current standards of care. Furthermore, discontinuation or dose reduction of AVANDIA must be considered.
  • AVANDIA is not recommended in patients with symptomatic heart failure. Initiation of AVANDIA in patients with established NYHA Class III or IV heart failure is contraindicated. [See CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.]
  • A meta-analysis of 42 clinical studies (mean duration 6 months; 14,237 total patients), most of which compared AVANDIA to placebo, showed AVANDIA to be associated with an increased risk of myocardial ischemic events such as angina or myocardial infarction. Three other studies (mean duration 41 months; 14,067 total patients), comparing AVANDIA to some other approved oral antidiabetic agents or placebo, have not confirmed or excluded this risk. In their entirety, the available data on the risk of myocardial ischemia are inconclusive. [See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.]

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Indications and Usage

Monotherapy and Combination Therapy

AVANDIA is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Important Limitations of Use

  • Due to its mechanism of action, AVANDIA is active only in the presence of endogenous insulin. Therefore, AVANDIA should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
  • The coadministration of AVANDIA and insulin is not recommended.
  • The use of AVANDIA with nitrates is not recommended.

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Dosage and Administration

The management of antidiabetic therapy should be individualized. All patients should start AVANDIA at the lowest recommended dose. Further increases in the dose of AVANDIA should be accompanied by careful monitoring for adverse events related to fluid retention [see Boxed Warning and WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS].

AVANDIA may be administered at a starting dose of 4 mg either as a single daily dose or in 2 divided doses. For patients who respond inadequately following 8 to 12 weeks of treatment, as determined by reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), the dose may be increased to 8 mg daily as monotherapy or in combination with metformin, sulfonylurea, or sulfonylurea plus metformin. Reductions in glycemic parameters by dose and regimen are described under Clinical Studies . AVANDIA may be taken with or without food.

The total daily dose of AVANDIA should not exceed 8 mg.

Monotherapy

The usual starting dose of AVANDIA is 4 mg administered either as a single dose once daily or in divided doses twice daily. In clinical trials, the 4-mg twice-daily regimen resulted in the greatest reduction in FPG and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

Combination With Sulfonylurea or Metformin

When AVANDIA is added to existing therapy, the current dose(s) of the agent(s) can be continued upon initiation of therapy with AVANDIA.

Sulfonylurea: When used in combination with sulfonylurea, the usual starting dose of AVANDIA is 4 mg administered as either a single dose once daily or in divided doses twice daily. If patients report hypoglycemia, the dose of the sulfonylurea should be decreased.

Metformin: The usual starting dose of AVANDIA in combination with metformin is 4 mg administered as either a single dose once daily or in divided doses twice daily. It is unlikely that the dose of metformin will require adjustment due to hypoglycemia during combination therapy with AVANDIA.

Combination With Sulfonylurea Plus Metformin

The usual starting dose of AVANDIA in combination with a sulfonylurea plus metformin is 4 mg administered as either a single dose once daily or divided doses twice daily. If patients report hypoglycemia, the dose of the sulfonylurea should be decreased.

Specific Patient Populations

Renal Impairment: No dosage adjustment is necessary when AVANDIA is used as monotherapy in patients with renal impairment. Since metformin is contraindicated in such patients, concomitant administration of metformin and AVANDIA is also contraindicated in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: Liver enzymes should be measured prior to initiating treatment with AVANDIA. Therapy with AVANDIA should not be initiated if the patient exhibits clinical evidence of active liver disease or increased serum transaminase levels (ALT >2.5X upper limit of normal at start of therapy). After initiation of AVANDIA, liver enzymes should be monitored periodically per the clinical judgment of the healthcare professional. [See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY.]

Pediatric: Data are insufficient to recommend pediatric use of AVANDIA [see USE in SPECIFIC POPULATIONS].

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Dosage forms and Strengths

Pentagonal film-coated TILTAB tablet contains rosiglitazone as the maleate as follows:

  • 2 mg - pink, debossed with SB on one side and 2 on the other
  • 4 mg - orange, debossed with SB on one side and 4 on the other
  • 8 mg - red-brown, debossed with SB on one side and 8 on the other

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Contraindications

Initiation of AVANDIA in patients with established New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class III or IV heart failure is contraindicated [see BOXED WARNING].

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Warnings and Precautions

Cardiac Failure

AVANDIA, like other thiazolidinediones, alone or in combination with other antidiabetic agents, can cause fluid retention, which may exacerbate or lead to heart failure. Patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure. If these signs and symptoms develop, the heart failure should be managed according to current standards of care. Furthermore, discontinuation or dose reduction of rosiglitazone must be considered [see BOXED WARNING].

Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) NYHA Class I and II treated with AVANDIA have an increased risk of cardiovascular events. A 52-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled echocardiographic study was conducted in 224 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and NYHA Class I or II CHF (ejection fraction ≤ 45%) on background antidiabetic and CHF therapy. An independent committee conducted a blinded evaluation of fluid-related events (including congestive heart failure) and cardiovascular hospitalizations according to predefined criteria (adjudication). Separate from the adjudication, other cardiovascular adverse events were reported by investigators. Although no treatment difference in change from baseline of ejection fractions was observed, more cardiovascular adverse events were observed following treatment with AVANDIA compared to placebo during the 52-week study. (See Table 1.)

Table 1. Emergent Cardiovascular Adverse Events in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure (NYHA Class I and II) Treated With AVANDIA or Placebo (in Addition to Background Antidiabetic and CHF Therapy)

Events AVANDIA
N = 110
n (%)
Placebo
N = 114
n (%)
Adjudicated
Cardiovascular deaths 5 (5%) 4 (4%)
CHF worsening 7 (6%) 4 (4%)
- with overnight hospitalization 5 (5%) 4 (4%)
- without overnight hospitalization 2 (2%) 0 (0%)
New or worsening edema 28 (25%) 10 (9%)
New or worsening dyspnea 29 (26%) 19 (17%)
Increases in CHF medication 36 (33%) 20 (18%)
Cardiovascular hospitalization* 21 (19%) 15 (13%)
Investigator-reported, non-adjudicated
Ischemic adverse events 10 (9%) 5 (4%)
- Myocardial infarction 5 (5%) 2 (2%)
- Angina 6 (5%) 3 (3%)
* Includes hospitalization for any cardiovascular reason.

Initiation of AVANDIA in patients with established NYHA Class III or IV heart failure is contraindicated. AVANDIA is not recommended in patients with symptomatic heart failure. [See BOXED WARNING.]

Patients experiencing acute coronary syndromes have not been studied in controlled clinical trials. In view of the potential for development of heart failure in patients having an acute coronary event, initiation of AVANDIA is not recommended for patients experiencing an acute coronary event, and discontinuation of AVANDIA during this acute phase should be considered.

Patients with NYHA Class III and IV cardiac status (with or without CHF) have not been studied in controlled clinical trials. AVANDIA is not recommended in patients with NYHA Class III and IV cardiac status.

Myocardial Ischemia

Meta-Analysis of Myocardial Ischemia in a Group of 42 Clinical Trials

A meta-analysis was conducted retrospectively to assess cardiovascular adverse events reported across 42 double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trials (mean duration 6 months).1

These studies had been conducted to assess glucose-lowering efficacy in type 2 diabetes, and prospectively planned adjudication of cardiovascular events had not occurred in the trials. Some trials were placebo-controlled and some used active oral antidiabetic drugs as controls. Placebo-controlled studies included monotherapy trials (monotherapy with AVANDIA versus placebo monotherapy) and add-on trials (AVANDIA or placebo, added to sulfonylurea, metformin, or insulin). Active control studies included monotherapy trials (monotherapy with AVANDIA versus sulfonylurea or metformin monotherapy) and add-on trials (AVANDIA plus sulfonylurea or AVANDIA plus metformin, versus sulfonylurea plus metformin). A total of 14,237 patients were included (8,604 in treatment groups containing AVANDIA, 5,633 in comparator groups), with 4,143 patient-years of exposure to AVANDIA and 2,675 patient-years of exposure to comparator. Myocardial ischemic events included angina pectoris, angina pectoris aggravated, unstable angina, cardiac arrest, chest pain, coronary artery occlusion, dyspnea, myocardial infarction, coronary thrombosis, myocardial ischemia, coronary artery disease, and coronary artery disorder. In this analysis, an increased risk of myocardial ischemia with AVANDIA versus pooled comparators was observed (2% AVANDIA versus 1.5% comparators, odds ratio 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1, 1.8). An increased risk of myocardial ischemic events with AVANDIA was observed in the placebo-controlled studies, but not in the active-controlled studies. (See Figure 1.)

A greater increased risk of myocardial ischemic events was observed in studies where AVANDIA was added to insulin (2.8% for AVANDIA plus insulin versus 1.4% for placebo plus insulin, [OR 2.1, 95% CI 0.9, 5.1]). This increased risk reflects a difference of 3 events per 100 patient-years (95% CI -0.1, 6.3) between treatment groups. [See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.]

Figure 1. Forest Plot of Odds Ratios (95% Confidence Intervals) for Myocardial Ischemic Events in the Meta-Analysis of 42 Clinical Trials

Myocardial Ischemic Events

A greater increased risk of myocardial ischemia was also observed in patients who received AVANDIA and background nitrate therapy. For AVANDIA (N = 361) versus control (N = 244) in nitrate users, the odds ratio was 2.9 (95% CI 1.4, 5.9), while for non-nitrate users (about 14,000 patients total), the odds ratio was 1.3 (95% CI 0.9, 1.7). This increased risk represents a difference of 12 myocardial ischemic events per 100 patient-years (95% CI 3.3, 21.4). Most of the nitrate users had established coronary heart disease. Among patients with known coronary heart disease who were not on nitrate therapy, an increased risk of myocardial ischemic events for AVANDIA versus comparator was not demonstrated.

Myocardial Ischemic Events in Large Long-Term Prospective Randomized Controlled Trials of AVANDIA

Data from 3 other large, long-term, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trials of AVANDIA were assessed separately from the meta-analysis. These 3 trials include a total of 14,067 patients (treatment groups containing AVANDIA N = 6,311, comparator groups N = 7,756), with patient-year exposure of 21,803 patient-years for AVANDIA and 25,998 patient-years for comparator. Duration of follow-up exceeded 3 years in each study. ADOPT (A Diabetes Outcomes Progression Trial) was a 4- to 6-year randomized, active-controlled study in recently diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes naïve to drug therapy.

It was an efficacy and general safety trial that was designed to examine the durability of

AVANDIA as monotherapy (N = 1,456) for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, with comparator arms of sulfonylurea monotherapy (N = 1,441) and metformin monotherapy (N = 1,454). DREAM (Diabetes Reduction Assessment with Rosiglitazone and Ramipril Medication, published report2) was a 3- to 5-year randomized, placebo-controlled study in patients with impaired glucose tolerance and/or impaired fasting glucose. It had a 2x2 factorial design, intended to evaluate the effect of AVANDIA, and separately of ramipril (an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor [ACEI]), on progression to overt diabetes. In DREAM, 2,635 patients were in treatment groups containing AVANDIA, and 2,634 were in treatment groups not containing AVANDIA.Interim results have been published 3 for RECORD (Rosiglitazone Evaluated for Cardiac Outcomes and Regulation of Glycemia in Diabetes), an ongoing open-label, 6-year cardiovascular outcomes study in patients with type 2 diabetes with an average treatment duration of 3.75 years. RECORD includes patients who have failed metformin or sulfonylurea monotherapy; those who have failed metformin are randomized to receive either add-on AVANDIA or add-on sulfonylurea, and those who have failed sulfonylurea are randomized to receive either add-on AVANDIA or add-on metformin. In RECORD, a total of 2,220 patients are receiving add-on AVANDIA, and 2,227 patients are on one of the add-on regimens not containing AVANDIA.

For these 3 trials, analyses were performed using a composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death, or stroke), referred to hereafter as MACE. This endpoint differed from the meta-analysis' broad endpoint of myocardial ischemic events, more than half of which were angina. Myocardial infarction included adjudicated fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction plus sudden death. As shown in Figure 2, the results for the 3 endpoints (MACE, MI, and Total Mortality) were not statistically significantly different between AVANDIA and comparators.

Hazard Ratios

In preliminary analyses of the DREAM trial, the incidence of cardiovascular events was higher among subjects who received AVANDIA in combination with ramipril than among subjects who received ramipril alone, as illustrated in Figure 2. This finding was not confirmed in ADOPT and RECORD (active-controlled trials in patients with diabetes) in which 30% and 40% of patients respectively, reported ACE-inhibitor use at baseline.

In their entirety, the available data on the risk of myocardial ischemia are inconclusive. Definitive conclusions regarding this risk await completion of an adequately-designed cardiovascular outcome study.

There have been no clinical studies establishing conclusive evidence of macrovascular risk reduction with AVANDIA or any other oral antidiabetic drug.

Congestive Heart Failure and Myocardial Ischemia During Coadministration of AVANDIA With Insulin

In studies in which AVANDIA was added to insulin, AVANDIA increased the risk of congestive heart failure and myocardial ischemia. (See Table 2.)

Coadministration of AVANDIA and insulin is not recommended. [See Indications and Usage and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.]

In five, 26-week, controlled, randomized, double-blind trials which were included in the meta-analysis[see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] , patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized to coadministration of AVANDIA and insulin (N = 867) or insulin (N = 663). In these 5 trials, AVANDIA was added to insulin. These trials included patients with long-standing diabetes (median duration of 12 years) and a high prevalence of pre-existing medical conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, retinopathy, ischemic heart disease, vascular disease, and congestive heart failure. The total number of patients with emergent congestive heart failure was 21 (2.4%) and 7 (1.1%) in the AVANDIA plus insulin and insulin groups, respectively. The total number of patients with emergent myocardial ischemia was 24 (2.8%) and 9 (1.4%) in the AVANDIA plus insulin and insulin groups, respectively (OR 2.1 [95% CI 0.9, 5.1]). Although the event rate for congestive heart failure and myocardial ischemia was low in the studied population, consistently the event rate was 2-fold or higher with coadministration of AVANDIA and insulin. These cardiovascular events were noted at both the 4 mg and 8 mg daily doses of AVANDIA. (See Table 2.)

Table 2. Occurrence of Cardiovascular Events in 5 Controlled Trials of Addition of AVANDIA to Established Insulin Treatment

Event* AVANDIA + Insulin
(n = 867)
n (%)
Insulin
(n = 663)
n (%)
Congestive heart failure 21 (2.4%) 7 (1.1%)
Myocardial ischemia 24 (2.8%) 9 (1.4%)
Composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke 10 (1.2%) 5 (0.8%)
Stroke 5 (0.6%) 4 (0.6%)
Myocardial infarction 4 (0.5%) 1 (0.2%)
Cardiovascular death 4 (0.5%) 1 (0.2%)
All deaths 6 (0.7%) 1 (0.2%)
* Events are not exclusive; i.e., a patient with a cardiovascular death due to a myocardial infarction would be counted in 4 event categories (myocardial ischemia; cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction or stroke; myocardial infarction; cardiovascular death).

In a sixth, 24-week, controlled, randomized, double-blind trial of AVANDIA and insulin coadministration, insulin was added to AVANDAMET® (rosiglitazone maleate and metformin HCl) (n = 161) and compared to insulin plus placebo (n = 158), after a single-blind 8-week run-in with AVANDAMET. Patients with edema requiring pharmacologic therapy and those with congestive heart failure were excluded at baseline and during the run-in period.

In the group receiving AVANDAMET plus insulin, there was one myocardial ischemic event and one sudden death. No myocardial ischemia was observed in the insulin group, and no congestive heart failure was reported in either treatment group.

Edema

AVANDIA should be used with caution in patients with edema. In a clinical study in healthy volunteers who received 8 mg of AVANDIA once daily for 8 weeks, there was a statistically significant increase in median plasma volume compared to placebo.

Since thiazolidinediones, including rosiglitazone, can cause fluid retention, which can exacerbate or lead to congestive heart failure, AVANDIA should be used with caution in patients at risk for heart failure. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of heart failure [see BOXED WARNING, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ].

In controlled clinical trials of patients with type 2 diabetes, mild to moderate edema was reported in patients treated with AVANDIA, and may be dose related. Patients with ongoing edema were more likely to have adverse events associated with edema if started on combination therapy with insulin and AVANDIA [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Weight Gain

Dose-related weight gain was seen with AVANDIA alone and in combination with other hypoglycemic agents (Table 3). The mechanism of weight gain is unclear but probably involves a combination of fluid retention and fat accumulation.

In postmarketing experience, there have been reports of unusually rapid increases in weight and increases in excess of that generally observed in clinical trials. Patients who experience such increases should be assessed for fluid accumulation and volume-related events such as excessive edema and congestive heart failure [see BOXED WARNING].

Table 3. Weight Changes (kg) From Baseline at Endpoint During Clinical Trials

Monotherapy Duration Control Group AVANDIA
4 mg
Median
(25th, 75th
percentile)
AVANDIA
8 mg
Median
(25th, 75th
percentile)
  Median
(25th, 75th
percentile)
  26 weeks placebo -0.9 (-2.8, 0.9)
n = 210
1.0 (-0.9, 3.6)
n = 436
3.1 (1.1, 5.8)
n = 439
  52 weeks sulfonylurea 2.0 (0, 4.0)
n = 173
2.0 (-0.6, 4.0)
n = 150
2.6 (0, 5.3)
n = 157
Combination therapy
Sulfonylurea 24-26 weeks sulfonylurea 0 (-1.0, 1.3)
n = 1,155
2.2 (0.5, 4.0)
n = 613
3.5 (1.4, 5.9)
n = 841
Metformin 26 weeks metformin -1.4 (-3.2, 0.2)
n = 175
0.8 (-1.0, 2.6)
n = 100
2.1 (0, 4.3)
n = 184
Insulin 26 weeks insulin 0.9 (-0.5, 2.7)
n = 162
4.1 (1.4, 6.3)
n = 164
5.4 (3.4, 7.3)
n = 150
Sulfonylurea + metformin 26 weeks sulfonylurea + metformin 0.2 (-1.2, 1.6)
n = 272
2.5 (0.8, 4.6)
n = 275
4.5 (2.4, 7.3)
n = 276

In a 4- to 6-year, monotherapy, comparative trial (ADOPT) in patients recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes not previously treated with antidiabetic medication [see Clinical Studies], the median weight change (25th, 75th percentiles) from baseline at 4 years was 3.5 kg (0.0, 8.1) for AVANDIA, 2.0 kg (-1.0, 4.8) for glyburide, and -2.4 kg (-5.4, 0.5) for metformin.

In a 24-week study in pediatric patients aged 10 to 17 years treated with AVANDIA 4 to 8 mg daily, a median weight gain of 2.8 kg (25th, 75th percentiles: 0.0, 5.8) was reported.

Hepatic Effects

Liver enzymes should be measured prior to the initiation of therapy with AVANDIA in all patients and periodically thereafter per the clinical judgment of the healthcare professional. Therapy with AVANDIA should not be initiated in patients with increased baseline liver enzyme levels (ALT > 2.5X upper limit of normal). Patients with mildly elevated liver enzymes (ALT levels ≤ 2.5X upper limit of normal) at baseline or during therapy with AVANDIA should be evaluated to determine the cause of the liver enzyme elevation. Initiation of, or continuation of, therapy with AVANDIA in patients with mild liver enzyme elevations should proceed with caution and include close clinical follow-up, including liver enzyme monitoring, to determine if the liver enzyme elevations resolve or worsen. If at any time ALT levels increase to > 3X the upper limit of normal in patients on therapy with AVANDIA, liver enzyme levels should be rechecked as soon as possible. If ALT levels remain > 3X the upper limit of normal, therapy with AVANDIA should be discontinued.

If any patient develops symptoms suggesting hepatic dysfunction, which may include unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia and/or dark urine, liver enzymes should be checked. The decision whether to continue the patient on therapy with AVANDIA should be guided by clinical judgment pending laboratory evaluations. If jaundice is observed, drug therapy should be discontinued. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS.]

Macular Edema

Macular edema has been reported in postmarketing experience in some diabetic patients who were taking AVANDIA or another thiazolidinedione. Some patients presented with blurred vision or decreased visual acuity, but some patients appear to have been diagnosed on routine ophthalmologic examination. Most patients had peripheral edema at the time macular edema was diagnosed. Some patients had improvement in their macular edema after discontinuation of their thiazolidinedione. Patients with diabetes should have regular eye exams by an ophthalmologist, per the Standards of Care of the American Diabetes Association. Additionally, any diabetic who reports any kind of visual symptom should be promptly referred to an ophthalmologist, regardless of the patient's underlying medications or other physical findings. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS.]

Fractures

In a 4- to 6-year comparative study (ADOPT) of glycemic control with monotherapy in drug-naïve patients recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, an increased incidence of bone fracture was noted in female patients taking AVANDIA. Over the 4- to 6-year period, the incidence of bone fracture in females was 9.3% (60/645) for AVANDIA versus 3.5% (21/605) for glyburide and 5.1% (30/590) for metformin. This increased incidence was noted after the first year of treatment and persisted during the course of the study. The majority of the fractures in the women who received AVANDIA occurred in the upper arm, hand, and foot. These sites of fracture are different from those usually associated with postmenopausal osteoporosis (e.g., hip or spine). No increase in fracture rates was observed in men treated with AVANDIA. The risk of fracture should be considered in the care of patients, especially female patients, treated with AVANDIA, and attention given to assessing and maintaining bone health according to current standards of care.

Hematologic Effects

Decreases in mean hemoglobin and hematocrit occurred in a dose-related fashion in adult patients treated with AVANDIA [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. The observed changes may be related to the increased plasma volume observed with treatment with AVANDIA.

Diabetes and Blood Glucose Control

Patients receiving AVANDIA in combination with other hypoglycemic agents may be at risk for hypoglycemia, and a reduction in the dose of the concomitant agent may be necessary.

Periodic fasting blood glucose and HbA1c measurements should be performed to monitor therapeutic response.

Ovulation

Therapy with AVANDIA, like other thiazolidinediones, may result in ovulation in some premenopausal anovulatory women. As a result, these patients may be at an increased risk for pregnancy while taking AVANDIA [see Use in Specific Populations]. Thus, adequate contraception in premenopausal women should be recommended. This possible effect has not been specifically investigated in clinical studies; therefore, the frequency of this occurrence is not known.

Although hormonal imbalance has been seen in preclinical studies [see Nonclinical Toxicology], the clinical significance of this finding is not known. If unexpected menstrual dysfunction occurs, the benefits of continued therapy with AVANDIA should be reviewed.

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Adverse Reactions

Clinical Trial Experience

Adult

In clinical trials, approximately 9,900 patients with type 2 diabetes have been treated with AVANDIA.

Short-Term Trials of AVANDIA as Monotherapy and in Combination With Other Hypoglycemic Agents

The incidence and types of adverse events reported in short-term clinical trials of AVANDIA as monotherapy are shown in Table 4.

Table 4. Adverse Events ( ≥ 5% in Any Treatment Group) Reported by Patients in Short-Term*Double-Blind Clinical Trials With AVANDIA as Monotherapy

Preferred Term AVANDIA
Monotherapy
N = 2,526
%
Placebo
N = 601
%
Metformin
N = 225
%
Sulfonylureas†
N = 626
%
Upper respiratory tract infection 9.9 8.7 8.9 7.3
Injury 7.6 4.3 7.6 6.1
Headache 5.9 5.0 8.9 5.4
Back pain 4.0 3.8 4.0 5.0
Hyperglycemia 3.9 5.7 4.4 8.1
Fatigue 3.6 5.0 4.0 1.9
Sinusitis 3.2 4.5 5.3 3.0
Diarrhea 2.3 3.3 15.6 3.0
Hypoglycemia 0.6 0.2 1.3 5.9
* Short-term trials ranged from 8 weeks to 1 year.
† Includes patients receiving glyburide (N = 514), gliclazide (N = 91), or glipizide (N = 21).

Overall, the types of adverse reactions without regard to causality reported when AVANDIA was used in combination with a sulfonylurea or metformin were similar to those during monotherapy with AVANDIA.

Events of anemia and edema tended to be reported more frequently at higher doses, and were generally mild to moderate in severity and usually did not require discontinuation of treatment with AVANDIA.

In double-blind studies, anemia was reported in 1.9% of patients receiving AVANDIA as monotherapy compared to 0.7% on placebo, 0.6% on sulfonylureas, and 2.2% on metformin. Reports of anemia were greater in patients treated with a combination of AVANDIA and metformin (7.1%) and with a combination of AVANDIA and a sulfonylurea plus metformin (6.7%) compared to monotherapy with AVANDIA or in combination with a sulfonylurea (2.3%). Lower pre-treatment hemoglobin/hematocrit levels in patients enrolled in the metformin combination clinical trials may have contributed to the higher reporting rate of anemia in these studies [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

In clinical trials, edema was reported in 4.8% of patients receiving AVANDIA as monotherapy compared to 1.3% on placebo, 1.0% on sulfonylureas, and 2.2% on metformin. The reporting rate of edema was higher for AVANDIA 8 mg in sulfonylurea combinations (12.4%) compared to other combinations, with the exception of insulin. Edema was reported in 14.7% of patients receiving AVANDIA in the insulin combination trials compared to 5.4% on insulin alone. Reports of new onset or exacerbation of congestive heart failure occurred at rates of 1% for insulin alone, and 2% (4 mg) and 3% (8 mg) for insulin in combination with AVANDIA [see BOXED WARNING and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

In controlled combination therapy studies with sulfonylureas, mild to moderate hypoglycemic symptoms, which appear to be dose related, were reported. Few patients were withdrawn for hypoglycemia ( < 1%) and few episodes of hypoglycemia were considered to be severe ( < 1%). Hypoglycemia was the most frequently reported adverse event in the fixed-dose insulin combination trials, although few patients withdrew for hypoglycemia (4 of 408 for AVANDIA plus insulin and 1 of 203 for insulin alone). Rates of hypoglycemia, confirmed by capillary blood glucose concentration ≤ 50 mg/dL, were 6% for insulin alone and 12% (4 mg) and 14% (8 mg) for insulin in combination with AVANDIA. [See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.]

Long-Term Trial of AVANDIA as Monotherapy

A 4- to 6-year study (ADOPT) compared the use of AVANDIA (n = 1,456), glyburide (n = 1,441), and metformin (n = 1,454) as monotherapy in patients recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who were not previously treated with antidiabetic medication. Table 5 presents adverse reactions without regard to causality; rates are expressed per 100 patient-years (PY) exposure to account for the differences in exposure to study medication across the 3 treatment groups.

In ADOPT, fractures were reported in a greater number of women treated with AVANDIA (9.3%, 2.7/100 patient-years) compared to glyburide (3.5%, 1.3/100 patient-years) or metformin (5.1%, 1.5/100 patient-years).

The majority of the fractures in the women who received rosiglitazone were reported in the upper arm, hand, and foot. [See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.] The observed incidence of fractures for male patients was similar among the 3 treatment groups.

Table 5. On-Therapy Adverse Events ( ≥ 5 Events/100 Patient-Years [PY]) in Any Treatment Group Reported in a 4- to 6-Year Clinical Trial of AVANDIA as Monotherapy (ADOPT)

  AVANDIA
N = 1,456
PY = 4,954
Glyburide
N = 1,441
PY = 4,244
Metformin
N = 1,454
PY = 4,906
Nasopharyngitis 6.3 6.9 6.6
Back pain 5.1 4.9 5.3
Arthralgia 5.0 4.8 4.2
Hypertension 4.4 6.0 6.1
Upper respiratory tract infection 4.3 5.0 4.7
Hypoglycemia 2.9 13.0 3.4
Diarrhea 2.5 3.2 6.8

Pediatric

Avandia has been evaluated for safety in a single, active-controlled trial of pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes in which 99 were treated with Avandia and 101 were treated with metformin. The most common adverse reactions (>10%) without regard to causality for either Avandia or metformin were headache (17% versus 14%), nausea (4% versus 11%), nasopharyngitis (3% versus 12%), and diarrhea (1% versus 13%). In this study, one case of diabetic ketoacidosis was reported in the metformin group. In addition, there were 3 patients in the rosiglitazone group who had FPG of ∼300 mg/dL, 2+ ketonuria, and an elevated anion gap.

Laboratory Abnormalities

Hematologic

Decreases in mean hemoglobin and hematocrit occurred in a dose-related fashion in adult patients treated with Avandia (mean decreases in individual studies as much as 1.0 g/dL hemoglobin and as much as 3.3% hematocrit). The changes occurred primarily during the first 3 months following initiation of therapy with Avandia or following a dose increase in Avandia. The time course and magnitude of decreases were similar in patients treated with a combination of Avandia and other hypoglycemic agents or monotherapy with Avandia. Pre-treatment levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit were lower in patients in metformin combination studies and may have contributed to the higher reporting rate of anemia. In a single study in pediatric patients, decreases in hemoglobin and hematocrit (mean decreases of 0.29 g/dL and 0.95%, respectively) were reported. Small decreases in hemoglobin and hematocrit have also been reported in pediatric patients treated with Avandia. White blood cell counts also decreased slightly in adult patients treated with Avandia. Decreases in hematologic parameters may be related to increased plasma volume observed with treatment with Avandia.

Lipids

Changes in serum lipids have been observed following treatment with Avandia in adults [see Clinical Pharmacology ]. Small changes in serum lipid parameters were reported in children treated with Avandia for 24 weeks.

Serum Transaminase Levels

In pre-approval clinical studies in 4,598 patients treated with Avandia (3,600 patient-years of exposure) and in a long-term 4- to 6-year study in 1,456 patients treated with Avandia (4,954 patient-years exposure), there was no evidence of drug-induced hepatotoxicity.

In pre-approval controlled trials, 0.2% of patients treated with Avandia had elevations in ALT >3X the upper limit of normal compared to 0.2% on placebo and 0.5% on active comparators. The ALT elevations in patients treated with Avandia were reversible. Hyperbilirubinemia was found in 0.3% of patients treated with Avandia compared with 0.9% treated with placebo and 1% in patients treated with active comparators. In pre-approval clinical trials, there were no cases of idiosyncratic drug reactions leading to hepatic failure. [See Warnings and Precautions]

In the 4- to 6-year ADOPT trial, patients treated with Avandia (4,954 patient-years exposure), glyburide (4,244 patient-years exposure), or metformin (4,906 patient-years exposure), as monotherapy, had the same rate of ALT increase to >3X upper limit of normal (0.3 per 100 patient-years exposure).

Postmarketing Experience

In addition to adverse reactions reported from clinical trials, the events described below have been identified during post-approval use of Avandia. Because these events are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or to always establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

In patients receiving thiazolidinedione therapy, serious adverse events with or without a fatal outcome, potentially related to volume expansion (e.g., congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, and pleural effusions) have been reported [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions].

There are postmarketing reports with Avandia of hepatitis, hepatic enzyme elevations to 3 or more times the upper limit of normal, and hepatic failure with and without fatal outcome, although causality has not been established.

Rash, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic reaction, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome have been reported rarely.

Reports of new onset or worsening diabetic macular edema with decreased visual acuity have also been received [see Warnings and Precautions].

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Drug Interactions

CYP2C8 Inhibitors and Inducers

An inhibitor of CYP2C8 (e.g., gemfibrozil) may increase the AUC of rosiglitazone and an inducer of CYP2C8 (e.g., rifampin) may decrease the AUC of rosiglitazone. Therefore, if an inhibitor or an inducer of CYP2C8 is started or stopped during treatment with rosiglitazone, changes in diabetes treatment may be needed based upon clinical response. [See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY.]

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Use in Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C.

All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcome regardless of drug exposure. This background risk is increased in pregnancies complicated by hyperglycemia and may be decreased with good metabolic control. It is essential for patients with diabetes or history of gestational diabetes to maintain good metabolic control before conception and throughout pregnancy. Careful monitoring of glucose control is essential in such patients. Most experts recommend that insulin monotherapy be used during pregnancy to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible.

Human Data: Rosiglitazone has been reported to cross the human placenta and bedetectable in fetal tissue. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. AVANDIA should not be used during pregnancy.

Animal Studies: There was no effect on implantation or the embryo with rosiglitazone treatment during early pregnancy in rats, but treatment during mid-late gestation was associated with fetal death and growth retardation in both rats and rabbits. Teratogenicity was not observed at doses up to 3 mg/kg in rats and 100 mg/kg in rabbits (approximately 20 and 75 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose, respectively). Rosiglitazone caused placental pathology in rats (3 mg/kg/day). Treatment of rats during gestation through lactation reduced litter size, neonatal viability, and postnatal growth, with growth retardation reversible after puberty. For effects on the placenta, embryo/fetus, and offspring, the no-effect dose was 0.2 mg/kg/day in rats and 15 mg/kg/day in rabbits. These no-effect levels are approximately 4 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose. Rosiglitazone reduced the number of uterine implantations and live offspring when juvenile female rats were treated at 40 mg/kg/day from 27 days of age through to sexual maturity (approximately 68 times human AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose). The no-effect level was 2 mg/kg/day (approximately 4 times human AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose). There was no effect on pre- or post-natal survival or growth.

Labor and Delivery

The effect of rosiglitazone on labor and delivery in humans is not known.

Nursing Mothers

Drug-related material was detected in milk from lactating rats. It is not known whether AVANDIA is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, AVANDIA should not be administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

After placebo run-in including diet counseling, children with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged 10 to 17 years and with a baseline mean body mass index (BMI) of 33 kg/m , were randomized to treatment with 2 mg twice daily of AVANDIA (n = 99) or 500 mg twice daily of metformin (n = 101) in a 24-week, double-blind clinical trial. As expected, FPG decreased in patients naïve to diabetes medication (n = 104) and increased in patients withdrawn from prior medication (usually metformin) (n = 90) during the run-in period. After at least 8 weeks of treatment, 49% of patients treated with AVANDIA and 55% of metformin-treated patients had their dose doubled if FPG >126 mg/dL. For the overall intent-to-treat population, at week 24, the mean change from baseline in HbA1c was -0.14% with AVANDIA and -0.49% with metformin. There was an insufficient number of patients in this study to establish statistically whether these
observed mean treatment effects were similar or different. Treatment effects differed for patients naïve to therapy with antidiabetic drugs and for patients previously treated with antidiabetic therapy (Table 6).

Table 6. Week 24 FPG and HbA1c Change From Baseline Last-Observation-Carried Forward in Children With Baseline HbA1c > 6.5%

  Naïve Patients Previously-Treated Patients

Metformin
N = 40

Rosiglitazone
N = 45

Metformin
N = 43

Rosiglitazone
N = 32
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 170 165 221 205
Change from baseline (mean) -21 -11 -33 -5
Adjusted treatment difference* (rosiglitazone-metformin)† (95% CI)   8
(-15, 30)
  21
(-9, 51)
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 43% 27% 44% 28%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 8.3 8.2 8.8 8.5
Change from baseline (mean) -0.7 -0.5 -0.4 0.1
Adjusted treatment difference* (rosiglitazone-metformin)† (95% CI)   0.2
(-0.6, 0.9)
  0.5
(-0.2, 1.3)
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 63% 52% 54% 31%
* Change from baseline means are least squares means adjusting for baseline HbA1c, gender, and region.
† Positive values for the difference favor metformin.

Treatment differences depended on baseline BMI or weight such that the effects of AVANDIA and metformin appeared more closely comparable among heavier patients. The median weight gain was 2.8 kg with rosiglitazone and 0.2 kg with metformin [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Fifty-four percent of patients treated with rosiglitazone and 32% of patients treated with metformin gained ≥ 2 kg, and 33% of patients treated with rosiglitazone and 7% of patients treated with metformin gained ≥ 5 kg on study.

Adverse events observed in this study are described in Adverse Reactions).

Figure 3. Mean HbA1c Over Time in a 24-Week Study of AVANDIA and Metformin in Pediatric Patients — Drug-Naïve Subgroup

 

 Mean HbA1c Over Time

Geriatric Use

Results of the population pharmacokinetic analysis showed that age does not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Therefore, no dosage adjustments are required for the elderly. In controlled clinical trials, no overall differences in safety and effectiveness between older ( ≥ 65 years) and younger ( < 65 years) patients were observed.

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Overdosage

Limited data are available with regard to overdosage in humans. In clinical studies in volunteers, AVANDIA has been administered at single oral doses of up to 20 mg and was well-tolerated. In the event of an overdose, appropriate supportive treatment should be initiated as dictated by the patient's clinical status.

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Description

AVANDIA (rosiglitazone maleate) is an oral antidiabetic agent which acts primarily by increasing insulin sensitivity. AVANDIA improves glycemic control while reducing circulating insulin levels.

Rosiglitazone maleate is not chemically or functionally related to the sulfonylureas, the biguanides, or the alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.

Chemically, rosiglitazone maleate is ( ±)-5-[[4-[2-(methyl-2-pyridinylamino)ethoxy]phenyl]methyl]-2,4-thiazolidinedione, (Z)-2-butenedioate (1:1) with a molecular weight of 473.52 (357.44 free base). The molecule has a single chiral center and is present as a racemate. Due to rapid interconversion, the enantiomers are functionally indistinguishable. The structural formula of rosiglitazone maleate is:

Avandia structural formula

The molecular formula is C18H19N3O3S-C4H4O4. Rosiglitazone maleate is a white to off-white solid with a melting point range of 122 to 123°C. The pKa values of rosiglitazone maleate are 6.8 and 6.1. It is readily soluble in ethanol and a buffered aqueous solution with pH of 2.3; solubility decreases with increasing pH in the physiological range.

Each pentagonal film-coated TILTAB tablet contains rosiglitazone maleate equivalent to rosiglitazone, 2 mg, 4 mg, or 8 mg, for oral administration. Inactive ingredients are: Hypromellose 2910, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol 3000, sodium starch glycolate, titanium dioxide, triacetin, and 1 or more of the following: Synthetic red and yellow iron oxides and talc.

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Clinical Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Rosiglitazone, a member of the thiazolidinedione class of antidiabetic agents, improves glycemic control by improving insulin sensitivity. Rosiglitazone is a highly selective and potent agonist for the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ). In humans, PPAR receptors are found in key target tissues for insulin action such as adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver. Activation of PPARγ nuclear receptors regulates the transcription of insulin-responsive genes involved in the control of glucose production, transport, and utilization. In addition, PPARγ-responsive genes also participate in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism.

Insulin resistance is a common feature characterizing the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. The antidiabetic activity of rosiglitazone has been demonstrated in animal models of type 2 diabetes in which hyperglycemia and/or impaired glucose tolerance is a consequence of insulin resistance in target tissues. Rosiglitazone reduces blood glucose concentrations and reduces hyperinsulinemia in the ob/ob obese mouse, db/db diabetic mouse, and fa/fa fatty Zucker rat.

In animal models, the antidiabetic activity of rosiglitazone was shown to be mediated by increased sensitivity to insulin's action in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissues. Pharmacological studies in animal models indicate that rosiglitazone inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis. The expression of the insulin-regulated glucose transporter GLUT-4 was increased in adipose tissue. Rosiglitazone did not induce hypoglycemia in animal models of type 2 diabetes and/or impaired glucose tolerance.

Pharmacodynamics

Patients with lipid abnormalities were not excluded from clinical trials of AVANDIA.

In all 26-week controlled trials, across the recommended dose range, AVANDIA as monotherapy was associated with increases in total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL and decreases in free fatty acids. These changes were statistically significantly different from placebo or glyburide controls (Table 7).

Increases in LDL occurred primarily during the first 1 to 2 months of therapy with AVANDIA and LDL levels remained elevated above baseline throughout the trials. In contrast, HDL continued to rise over time. As a result, the LDL/HDL ratio peaked after 2 months of therapy and then appeared to decrease over time. Because of the temporal nature of lipid changes, the 52-week glyburide-controlled study is most pertinent to assess long-term effects on lipids. At baseline, week 26, and week 52, mean LDL/HDL ratios were 3.1, 3.2, and 3.0, respectively, for AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily. The corresponding values for glyburide were 3.2, 3.1, and 2.9. The differences in change from baseline between AVANDIA and glyburide at week 52 were statistically significant.

The pattern of LDL and HDL changes following therapy with AVANDIA in combination with other hypoglycemic agents were generally similar to those seen with AVANDIA in monotherapy.

The changes in triglycerides during therapy with AVANDIA were variable and were generally not statistically different from placebo or glyburide controls.

Table 7. Summary of Mean Lipid Changes in 26-Week Placebo-Controlled and 52-Week Glyburide-Controlled Monotherapy Studies

  Placebo-Controlled Studies Week 26 Glyburide-Controlled Study Week 26 and Week 52
Placebo AVANDIA Glyburide Titration AVANDIA 8 mg
  4 mg daily* 8 mg daily* Wk 26 Wk 52 Wk 26 Wk 52
Free fatty acids
N 207 428 436 181 168 166 145
Baseline (mean) % 18.1 17.5 17.9 26.4 26.4 26.9 26.6
Change from baseline (mean) +0.2% -7.8% -14.7% -2.4% -4.7% -20.8% -21.5%
LDL
N 190 400 374 175 160 161 133
Baseline (mean) % 123.7 126.8 125.3 142.7 141.9 142.1 142.1
Change from baseline (mean) +4.8% +14.1% +18.6% -0.9% -0.5% +11.9% +12.1%
HDL
N 208 429 436 184 170 170 145
Baseline (mean) % 44.1 44.4 43.0 47.2 47.7 48.4 48.3
Change from baseline (mean) +8.0% +11.4% +14.2% +4.3% +8.7% +14.0% +18.5%
* Once daily and twice daily dosing groups were combined.

Pharmacokinetics

Maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and the area under the curve (AUC) of rosiglitazone increase in a dose-proportional manner over the therapeutic dose range (Table 8). The elimination half-life is 3 to 4 hours and is independent of dose.

Table 8. Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Rosiglitazone Following Single Oral Doses (N = 32)

Parameter 1 mg Fasting 2 mg Fasting 8 mg Fasting 8 mg Fed
AUC0-inf
[ng-hr/mL]
358
(112)
733
(184)
2,971
(730)
2,890
(795)
Cmax
[ng/mL]
76
(13)
156
(42)
598
(117)
432
(92)
Half-life
[hr]
3.16
(0.72)
3.15
(0.39)
3.37
(0.63)
3.59
(0.70)
CL/F*
[L/hr]
3.03
(0.87)
2.89
(0.71)
2.85
(0.69)
2.97
(0.81)
* CL/F = Oral clearance.

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of rosiglitazone is 99%. Peak plasma concentrations are observed about 1 hour after dosing. Administration of rosiglitazone with food resulted in no change in overall exposure (AUC), but there was an approximately 28% decrease in Cmax and a delay in Tmax (1.75 hours). These changes are not likely to be clinically significant; therefore, AVANDIA may be administered with or without food.

Distribution

The mean (CV%) oral volume of distribution (Vss/F) of rosiglitazone is approximately 17.6 (30%) liters, based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis. Rosiglitazone is approximately 99.8% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.

Metabolism

Rosiglitazone is extensively metabolized with no unchanged drug excreted in the urine. The major routes of metabolism were N-demethylation and hydroxylation, followed by conjugation with sulfate and glucuronic acid. All the circulating metabolites are considerably less potent than parent and, therefore, are not expected to contribute to the insulin-sensitizing activity of rosiglitazone.

In vitro data demonstrate that rosiglitazone is predominantly metabolized by Cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzyme 2C8, with CYP2C9 contributing as a minor pathway.

Excretion

Following oral or intravenous administration of [14C]rosiglitazone maleate, approximately 64% and 23% of the dose was eliminated in the urine and in the feces, respectively. The plasma half-life of [14C]related material ranged from 103 to 158 hours.

Population Pharmacokinetics in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Population pharmacokinetic analyses from 3 large clinical trials including 642 men and 405 women with type 2 diabetes (aged 35 to 80 years) showed that the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone are not influenced by age, race, smoking, or alcohol consumption. Both oral clearance (CL/F) and oral steady-state volume of distribution (Vss/F) were shown to increase with increases in body weight. Over the weight range observed in these analyses (50 to 150 kg), the range of predicted CL/F and Vss/F values varied by < 1.7-fold and < 2.3-fold, respectively.

Additionally, rosiglitazone CL/F was shown to be influenced by both weight and gender, being lower (about 15%) in female patients.

Special Populations

Geriatric

Results of the population pharmacokinetic analysis (n = 716 < 65 years; n = 331 ≥ 65 years) showed that age does not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone.

Gender

Results of the population pharmacokinetics analysis showed that the mean oral clearance of rosiglitazone in female patients (n = 405) was approximately 6% lower compared to male patients of the same body weight (n = 642).

As monotherapy and in combination with metformin, AVANDIA improved glycemic control in both males and females. In metformin combination studies, efficacy was demonstrated with no gender differences in glycemic response.

In monotherapy studies, a greater therapeutic response was observed in females; however, in more obese patients, gender differences were less evident. For a given body mass index (BMI), females tend to have a greater fat mass than males. Since the molecular target PPARγ is expressed in adipose tissues, this differentiating characteristic may account, at least in part, for the greater response to AVANDIA in females. Since therapy should be individualized, no dose adjustments are necessary based on gender alone.

Hepatic Impairment

Unbound oral clearance of rosiglitazone was significantly lower in patients with moderate to severe liver disease (Child-Pugh Class B/C) compared to healthy subjects. As a result, unbound Cmax and AUC0-inf were increased 2- and 3-fold, respectively. Elimination half-life for rosiglitazone was about 2 hours longer in patients with liver disease, compared to healthy subjects.

Therapy with AVANDIA should not be initiated if the patient exhibits clinical evidence of active liver disease or increased serum transaminase levels (ALT > 2.5X upper limit of normal) at baseline [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Pediatric

Pharmacokinetic parameters of rosiglitazone in pediatric patients were established using a population pharmacokinetic analysis with sparse data from 96 pediatric patients in a single pediatric clinical trial including 33 males and 63 females with ages ranging from 10 to 17 years (weights ranging from 35 to 178.3 kg). Population mean CL/F and V/F of rosiglitazone were 3.15 L/hr and 13.5 L, respectively. These estimates of CL/F and V/F were consistent with the typical parameter estimates from a prior adult population analysis.

Renal Impairment

There are no clinically relevant differences in the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone in patients with mild to severe renal impairment or in hemodialysis-dependent patients compared to subjects with normal renal function. No dosage adjustment is therefore required in such patients receiving AVANDIA. Since metformin is contraindicated in patients with renal impairment, coadministration of metformin with AVANDIA is contraindicated in these patients.

Race

Results of a population pharmacokinetic analysis including subjects of Caucasian, black, and other ethnic origins indicate that race has no influence on the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Drugs That Inhibit, Induce, or are Metabolized by Cytochrome P450

In vitro drug metabolism studies suggest that rosiglitazone does not inhibit any of the major P450 enzymes at clinically relevant concentrations. In vitro data demonstrate that rosiglitazone is predominantly metabolized by CYP2C8, and to a lesser extent, 2C9. AVANDIA (4 mg twice daily) was shown to have no clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine and oral contraceptives (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone), which are predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4.

Gemfibrozil

Concomitant administration of gemfibrozil (600 mg twice daily), an inhibitor of CYP2C8, and rosiglitazone (4 mg once daily) for 7 days increased rosiglitazone AUC by 127%, compared to the administration of rosiglitazone (4 mg once daily) alone. Given the potential for dose-related adverse events with rosiglitazone, a decrease in the dose of rosiglitazone may be needed when gemfibrozil is introduced [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Rifampin

Rifampin administration (600 mg once a day), an inducer of CYP2C8, for 6 days is reported to decrease rosiglitazone AUC by 66%, compared to the administration of rosiglitazone (8 mg) alone [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].4

Glyburide

AVANDIA (2 mg twice daily) taken concomitantly with glyburide (3.75 to 10 mg/day) for 7 days did not alter the mean steady-state 24-hour plasma glucose concentrations in diabetic patients stabilized on glyburide therapy. Repeat doses of AVANDIA (8 mg once daily) for 8 days in healthy adult Caucasian subjects caused a decrease in glyburide AUC and Cmax of approximately 30%. In Japanese subjects, glyburide AUC and Cmax slightly increased following coadministration of AVANDIA.

Glimepiride

Single oral doses of glimepiride in 14 healthy adult subjects had no clinically significant effect on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of AVANDIA. No clinically significant reductions in glimepiride AUC and Cmax were observed after repeat doses of AVANDIA (8 mg once daily) for 8 days in healthy adult subjects.

Metformin

Concurrent administration of AVANDIA (2 mg twice daily) and metformin (500 mg twice daily) in healthy volunteers for 4 days had no effect on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of either metformin or rosiglitazone.

Acarbose

Coadministration of acarbose (100 mg three times daily) for 7 days in healthy volunteers had no clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of AVANDIA.

Digoxin

Repeat oral dosing of AVANDIA (8 mg once daily) for 14 days did not alter the steady-state pharmacokinetics of digoxin (0.375 mg once daily) in healthy volunteers.

Warfarin

Repeat dosing with AVANDIA had no clinically relevant effect on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of warfarin enantiomers.

Ethanol

A single administration of a moderate amount of alcohol did not increase the risk of acute hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients treated with AVANDIA.

Ranitidine

Pretreatment with ranitidine (150 mg twice daily for 4 days) did not alter the pharmacokinetics of either single oral or intravenous doses of rosiglitazone in healthy volunteers.

These results suggest that the absorption of oral rosiglitazone is not altered in conditions accompanied by increases in gastrointestinal pH.

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Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis:

A 2-year carcinogenicity study was conducted in Charles River CD-1 mice at doses of 0.4, 1.5, and 6 mg/kg/day in the diet (highest dose equivalent to approximately 12 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). Sprague-Dawley rats were dosed for 2 years by oral gavage at doses of 0.05, 0.3, and 2 mg/kg/day (highest dose equivalent to approximately 10 and 20 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose for male and female rats, respectively).

Rosiglitazone was not carcinogenic in the mouse. There was an increase in incidence of adipose hyperplasia in the mouse at doses 1.5 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). In rats, there was a significant increase in the incidence of benign adipose tissue tumors (lipomas) at doses 0.3 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). These proliferative changes in both species are considered due to the persistent pharmacological overstimulation of adipose tissue.

Mutagenesis:

Rosiglitazone was not mutagenic or clastogenic in the in vitro bacterial assays for gene mutation, the in vitro chromosome aberration test in human lymphocytes, the in vivo mouse micronucleus test, and the in vivo/in vitro rat UDS assay. There was a small (about 2-fold) increase in mutation in the in vitro mouse lymphoma assay in the presence of metabolic activation.

Impairment of Fertility:

Rosiglitazone had no effects on mating or fertility of male rats given up to 40 mg/kg/day (approximately 116 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). Rosiglitazone altered estrous cyclicity (2 mg/kg/day) and reduced fertility (40 mg/kg/day) of female rats in association with lower plasma levels of progesterone and estradiol (approximately 20 and 200 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose, respectively). No such effects were noted at 0.2 mg/kg/day (approximately 3 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). In juvenile rats dosed from 27 days of age through to sexual maturity (at up to 40 mg/kg/day), there was no effect on male reproductive performance, or on estrous cyclicity, mating performance or pregnancy incidence in females (approximately 68 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose). In monkeys, rosiglitazone (0.6 and 4.6 mg/kg/day; approximately 3 and 15 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose, respectively) diminished the follicular phase rise in serum estradiol with consequential reduction in the luteinizing hormone surge, lower luteal phase progesterone levels, and amenorrhea. The mechanism for these effects appears to be direct inhibition of ovarian steroidogenesis.

Animal Toxicology

Heart weights were increased in mice (3 mg/kg/day), rats (5 mg/kg/day), and dogs (2 mg/kg/day) with rosiglitazone treatments (approximately 5, 22, and 2 times human AUC at the maximum recommended human daily dose, respectively). Effects in juvenile rats were consistent with those seen in adults. Morphometric measurement indicated that there was hypertrophy in cardiac ventricular tissues, which may be due to increased heart work as a result of plasma volume expansion.

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Clinical Studies

Monotherapy

In clinical studies, treatment with AVANDIA resulted in an improvement in glycemic control, as measured by FPG and HbA1c, with a concurrent reduction in insulin and C-peptide. Postprandial glucose and insulin were also reduced. This is consistent with the mechanism of action of AVANDIA as an insulin sensitizer.

The maximum recommended daily dose is 8 mg. Dose-ranging studies suggested that no additional benefit was obtained with a total daily dose of 12 mg.

Short-Term Clinical Studies: A total of 2,315 patients with type 2 diabetes, previously treated with diet alone or antidiabetic medication(s), were treated with AVANDIA as monotherapy in 6 double-blind studies, which included two 26-week placebo-controlled studies, one 52-week glyburide-controlled study, and 3 placebo-controlled dose-ranging studies of 8 to 12 weeks duration. Previous antidiabetic medication(s) were withdrawn and patients entered a 2 to 4 week placebo run-in period prior to randomization.

Two 26-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, in patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 1,401) with inadequate glycemic control (mean baseline FPG approximately 228 mg/dL [101 to 425 mg/dL] and mean baseline HbA1c 8.9% [5.2% to 16.2%]), were conducted. Treatment with AVANDIA produced statistically significant improvements in FPG and HbA1c compared to baseline and relative to placebo. Data from one of these studies are summarized in Table 9.

Table 9: Glycemic Parameters in a 26-Week Placebo-Controlled Trial

  Placebo
N = 173
AVANDIA AVANDIA
4 mg once daily
N = 180
2 mg twice daily
N = 186
8 mg once daily
N = 181
4 mg twice daily
N = 187
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 225 229 225 228 228
Change from baseline (mean) 8 -25 -35 -42 -55
Difference from placebo (adjusted mean) - -31* -43* -49* -62*
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 19% 45% 54% 58% 70%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 8.9 8.9 8.9 8.9 9.0
Change from baseline (mean) 0.8 0.0 -0.1 -0.3 -0.7
Difference from placebo (adjusted mean) - -0.8* -0.9* -1.1* -1.5*
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 9% 28% 29% 39% 54%
* p < 0.0001 compared to placebo.

When administered at the same total daily dose, AVANDIA was generally more effective in reducing FPG and HbA1c when administered in divided doses twice daily compared to once daily doses. However, for HbA1c, the difference between the 4 mg once daily and 2 mg twice daily doses was not statistically significant.

Long-Term Clinical Studies

Long-term maintenance of effect was evaluated in a 52-week, double-blind, glyburide-controlled trial in patients with type 2 diabetes. Patients were randomized to treatment with AVANDIA 2 mg twice daily (N = 195) or AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily (N = 189) or glyburide (N = 202) for 52 weeks. Patients receiving glyburide were given an initial dosage of either 2.5 mg/day or 5.0 mg/day. The dosage was then titrated in 2.5 mg/day increments over the next 12 weeks, to a maximum dosage of 15.0 mg/day in order to optimize glycemic control. Thereafter, the glyburide dose was kept constant.

The median titrated dose of glyburide was 7.5 mg. All treatments resulted in a statistically significant improvement in glycemic control from baseline (Figure 4 and Figure 5). At the end of week 52, the reduction from baseline in FPG and HbA1c was -40.8 mg/dL and -0.53% with AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily; -25.4 mg/dL and -0.27% with AVANDIA 2 mg twice daily; and -30.0 mg/dL and -0.72% with glyburide. For HbA1c, the difference between AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily and glyburide was not statistically significant at week 52. The initial fall in FPG with glyburide was greater than with AVANDIA; however, this effect was less durable over time.

The improvement in glycemic control seen with AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily at week 26 was maintained through week 52 of the study.

Figure 4. Mean FPG Over Time in a 52-Week Glyburide-Controlled Study

FPG Over Time

Figure 5. Mean HbA1c Over Time in a 52-Week Glyburide-Controlled Study

HbA1c Over Time Graphic

Hypoglycemia was reported in 12.1% of glyburide-treated patients versus 0.5% (2 mg twice daily) and 1.6% (4 mg twice daily) of patients treated with AVANDIA. The improvements in glycemic control were associated with a mean weight gain of 1.75 kg and 2.95 kg for patients treated with 2 mg and 4 mg twice daily of AVANDIA, respectively, versus 1.9 kg in glyburide-treated patients. In patients treated with AVANDIA, C-peptide, insulin, pro-insulin, and pro-insulin split products were significantly reduced in a dose-ordered fashion, compared to an increase in the glyburide-treated patients.

A Diabetes Outcome Progression Trial (ADOPT) was a multicenter, double-blind, controlled trial (N = 4,351) conducted over 4 to 6 years to compare the safety and efficacy of AVANDIA, metformin, and glyburide monotherapy in patients recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus ( ≤ 3 years) inadequately controlled with diet and exercise. The mean age of patients in this trial was 57 years and the majority of patients (83%) had no known history of cardiovascular disease. The mean baseline FPG and HbA1c were 152 mg/dL and 7.4%, respectively. Patients were randomized to receive either AVANDIA 4 mg once daily, glyburide 2.5 mg once daily, or metformin 500 mg once daily, and doses were titrated to optimal glycemic control up to a maximum of 4 mg twice daily for AVANDIA, 7.5 mg twice daily for glyburide, and 1,000 mg twice daily for metformin. The primary efficacy outcome was time to consecutive FPG > 180 mg/dL after at least 6 weeks of treatment at the maximum tolerated dose of study medication or time to inadequate glycemic control, as determined by an independent adjudication committee.

The cumulative incidence of the primary efficacy outcome at 5 years was 15% with AVANDIA, 21% with metformin, and 34% with glyburide (hazard ratio 0.68 [95% CI 0.55, 0.85] versus metformin, HR 0.37 [95% CI 0.30, 0.45] versus glyburide).

Cardiovascular and adverse event data (including effects on body weight and bone fracture) from ADOPT for AVANDIA, metformin, and glyburide are described in WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS, respectively. As with all medications, efficacy results must be considered together with safety information to assess the potential benefit and risk for an individual patient.

Combination With Metformin or Sulfonylurea

The addition of AVANDIA to either metformin or sulfonylurea resulted in significant reductions in hyperglycemia compared to either of these agents alone. These results are consistent with an additive effect on glycemic control when AVANDIA is used as combination therapy.

Combination With Metformin

A total of 670 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in two 26-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo/active-controlled studies designed to assess the efficacy of AVANDIA in combination with metformin. AVANDIA, administered in either once daily or twice daily dosing regimens, was added to the therapy of patients who were inadequately controlled on a maximum dose (2.5 grams/day) of metformin.

In one study, patients inadequately controlled on 2.5 grams/day of metformin (mean baseline FPG 216 mg/dL and mean baseline HbA1c 8.8%) were randomized to receive 4 mg of AVANDIA once daily, 8 mg of AVANDIA once daily, or placebo in addition to metformin. A statistically significant improvement in FPG and HbA1c was observed in patients treated with the combinations of metformin and 4 mg of AVANDIA once daily and 8 mg of AVANDIA once daily, versus patients continued on metformin alone (Table 10).

Table 10. Glycemic Parameters in a 26-Week Combination Study of AVANDIA Plus Metformin

  Metformin
N = 113
AVANDIA
4 mg once daily + metformin
N = 116
AVANDIA
8 mg once daily + metformin
N = 110
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 214 215 220
Change from baseline (mean) 6 -33 -48
Difference from metformin alone (adjusted mean) - -40* -53*
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 20% 45% 61%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 8.6 8.9 8.9
Change from baseline (mean) 0.5 -0.6 -0.8
Difference from metformin alone (adjusted mean) - -1.0* -1.2*
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 11% 45% 52%
* p < 0.0001 compared to metformin.

In a second 26-week study, patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on 2.5 grams/day of metformin who were randomized to receive the combination of AVANDIA 4 mg twice daily and metformin (N = 105) showed a statistically significant improvement in glycemic control with a mean treatment effect for FPG of -56 mg/dL and a mean treatment effect for HbA1c of -0.8% over metformin alone. The combination of metformin and AVANDIA resulted in lower levels of FPG and HbA1c than either agent alone.

Patients who were inadequately controlled on a maximum dose (2.5 grams/day) of metformin and who were switched to monotherapy with AVANDIA demonstrated loss of glycemic control, as evidenced by increases in FPG and HbA1c. In this group, increases in LDL and VLDL were also seen.

Combination With a Sulfonylurea

A total of 3,457 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in ten 24- to 26-week randomized, double-blind, placebo/active-controlled studies and one 2-year double-blind, active-controlled study in elderly patients designed to assess the efficacy and safety of AVANDIA in combination with a sulfonylurea. AVANDIA 2 mg, 4 mg, or 8 mg daily was administered, either once daily (3 studies) or in divided doses twice daily (7 studies), to patients inadequately controlled on a submaximal or maximal dose of sulfonylurea.

In these studies, the combination of AVANDIA 4 mg or 8 mg daily (administered as single or twice daily divided doses) and a sulfonylurea significantly reduced FPG and HbA1c compared to placebo plus sulfonylurea or further up-titration of the sulfonylurea. Table 11 shows pooled data for 8 studies in which AVANDIA added to sulfonylurea was compared to placebo plus sulfonylurea.

Table 11. Glycemic Parameters in 24- to 26-Week Combination Studies of AVANDIA Plus Sulfonylurea

Twice Daily Divided Dosing (5 Studies) Sulfonylurea
N = 397
AVANDIA
2 mg twice daily + sulfonylurea
N = 497
Sulfonylurea
N = 248
AVANDIA
4 mg twice daily + sulfonylurea
N = 346
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 204 198 188 187
Change from baseline (mean) 11 -29 8 -43
Difference from sulfonylurea alone (adjusted mean) - -42* - -53*
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 17% 49% 15% 61%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 9.4 9.5 9.3 9.6
Change from baseline (mean) 0.2 -1.0 0.0 -1.6
Difference from sulfonylurea alone (adjusted mean) - -1.1* - -1.4*
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 21% 60% 23% 75%
Once Daily Dosing(3 Studies) Sulfonylurea
N = 172
AVANDIA
4 mg once daily + sulfonylurea
N = 172
Sulfonylurea
N = 173
AVANDIA
8 mg once daily + sulfonylurea
N = 176
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 198 206 188 192
Change from baseline (mean) 17 -25 17 -43
Difference from sulfonylurea alone (adjusted mean) - -47* - -66*
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 17% 48% 19% 55%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 8.6 8.8 8.9 8.9
Change from baseline (mean) 0.4 -0.5 0.1 -1.2
Difference from sulfonylurea alone (adjusted mean) - -0.9* - -1.4*
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 11% 36% 20% 68%
* p < 0.0001 compared to sulfonylurea alone.

One of the 24- to 26-week studies included patients who were inadequately controlled on maximal doses of glyburide and switched to 4 mg of AVANDIA daily as monotherapy; in this group, loss of glycemic control was demonstrated, as evidenced by increases in FPG and HbA1c.

In a 2-year double-blind study, elderly patients (aged 59 to 89 years) on half-maximal sulfonylurea (glipizide 10 mg twice daily) were randomized to the addition of AVANDIA (n = 115, 4 mg once daily to 8 mg as needed) or to continued up-titration of glipizide (n = 110), to a maximum of 20 mg twice daily. Mean baseline FPG and HbA1c were 157 mg/dL and 7.72%, respectively, for the AVANDIA plus glipizide arm and 159 mg/dL and 7.65%, respectively, for the glipizide up-titration arm. Loss of glycemic control (FPG ≥ 180 mg/dL) occurred in a significantly lower proportion of patients (2%) on AVANDIA plus glipizide compared to patients in the glipizide up-titration arm (28.7%). About 78% of the patients on combination therapy completed the 2 years of therapy while only 51% completed on glipizide monotherapy. The effect of combination therapy on FPG and HbA1c was durable over the 2-year study period, with patients achieving a mean of 132 mg/dL for FPG and a mean of 6.98% for HbA1c compared to no change on the glipizide arm.

Combination With Sulfonylurea Plus Metformin

In two 24- to 26-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, studies designed to assess the efficacy and safety of AVANDIA in combination with sulfonylurea plus metformin, AVANDIA 4 mg or 8 mg daily, was administered in divided doses twice daily, to patients inadequately controlled on submaximal (10 mg) and maximal (20 mg) doses of glyburide and maximal dose of metformin (2 g/day). A statistically significant improvement in FPG and HbA1c was observed in patients treated with the combinations of sulfonylurea plus metformin and 4 mg of AVANDIA and 8 mg of AVANDIA versus patients continued on sulfonylurea plus metformin, as shown in Table 12.

Table 12. Glycemic Parameters in a 26-Week Combination Study of AVANDIA Plus Sulfonylurea and Metformin

  Sulfonylurea +
metformin
N = 273
AVANDIA
2 mg twice
daily + sulfonylurea + metformin
N = 276
AVANDIA
4 mg twice daily + sulfonylurea + metformin
N = 277
FPG (mg/dL)
Baseline (mean) 189 190 192
Change from baseline (mean) 14 -19 -40
Difference from sulfonylurea plus metformin (adjusted mean) - -30* -52*
% of patients with ≥ 30 mg/dL decrease from baseline 16% 46% 62%
HbA1c (%)
Baseline (mean) 8.7 8.6 8.7
Change from baseline (mean) 0.2 -0.4 -0.9
Difference from sulfonylurea plus metformin (adjusted mean) - -0.6* -1.1*
% of patients with ≥ 0.7% decrease from baseline 16% 39% 63%
* p < 0.0001 compared to placebo.

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References

  1. Food and Drug Administration Briefing Document. Joint meeting of the Endocrino Metabolic Drugs and Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory Committees. Ju 2007.
  2. DREAM Trial Investigators. Effect of rosiglitazone on the frequency of diabetes in with impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose: a randomised controll Lancet 2006;368:1096-1105.
  3. Home PD, Pocock SJ, Beck-Nielsen H, et al. Rosiglitazone evaluated for cardiovas outcomes - an interim analysis. NEJM 2007;357:1-11.
  4. Park JY, Kim KA, Kang MH, et al. Effect of rifampin on the pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone in healthy subjects. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2004;75:157-162.

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How Supplied/Storage and Handling

Each pentagonal film-coated TILTAB tablet contains rosiglitazone as the maleate as follows: 2 mg-pink, debossed with SB on one side and 2 on the other; 4 mg-orange, debossed with SB on one side and 4 on the other; 8 mg-red-brown, debossed with SB on one side and 8 on the other.

  • 2 mg bottles of 60: NDC 0029-3158-18
  • 4 mg bottles of 30: NDC 0029-3159-13
  • 4 mg bottles of 90: NDC 0029-3159-00
  • 8 mg bottles of 30: NDC 0029-3160-13
  • 8 mg bottles of 90: NDC 0029-3160-59

Store at 25 C (77°F); excursions 15 to 30 C (59 to 86 F). Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.

last updated 02/2008

Avandia, rosiglitazone maleate, patient information (in plain English)

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Diabetes


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.

back to: Browse all Medications for Diabetes

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2008, February 28). Avandia for Treatment of Diabetes - Avandia Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/diabetes/medications/avandia-diabetes-treatment-information

Last Updated: July 21, 2014

Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse

Relationship between bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse and abuse, exploring treatment and diagnostic issues.Relationship between bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse and abuse, exploring treatment and diagnostic issues.

Inside the Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse Factsheet

The Mental Health & Alcohol Misuse Project (MHAMP) provides factsheets, a newsletter and web pages aimed at sharing good practice between clinicians and professionals working in the mental health and alcohol fields. MHAMP promotes the inclusion of alcohol in strategies developed for the Mental Health National Service Framework, and updates the mental health and alcohol fields.

Project Factsheet 5:

This factsheet outlines the relationship between bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse, exploring treatment and diagnostic issues. Although bipolar disorder only affects 1-2% of the population, it often requires long-term treatment, which may involve a number of health and social care providers. Importantly, alcohol misuse is high among people with bipolar disorder, and it adversely affects the course of the illness.

Target audience

This factsheet is intended primarily for clinicians and staff working in mental health services, alcohol agencies and primary care. The factsheet may also be of interest to people working in Local Implementation Teams and Primary Care Trusts with an interest in commissioning and planning services to meet the needs of people with comorbid alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder.

Summary: The factsheet at a glance

  • People with bipolar disorder are five times more likely to develop alcohol misuse or dependence than the rest of the population
  • Comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse is commonly associated with poor medication compliance, heightened severity of bipolar symptoms, and poor treatment outcomes
  • The complex relationship between co-existing alcohol problems and bipolar disorder demonstrates the pressing need to screen for and treat alcohol misuse in this group
  • Alcohol misuse can mask diagnostic accuracy in determining the presence of bipolar disorder. Measures that can help determine whether bipolar disorder is present include taking a chronological history of when symptoms developed, considering family history, and observation of mood over extended periods of abstinence
  • There are a number of treatment measures that may help those with concurrent alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder. These include screening for alcohol misuse in mental health and primary care settings, screening for mental health problems in primary care and substance misuse agencies and referral to mental health and substance misuse services as required, care planning, patient and carer advice and education, monitoring medication compliance, psychological interventions, and specialist relapse prevention groups.

Introduction

Description

Often called manic depression, bipolar disorder is a type of mood (affective) disorder that affects about 1-2% of the population (Sonne & Brady 2002). People with bipolar disorder experience extreme fluctuations in mood and levels of activity, from euphoria to severe depression, as well as periods of euthymia (normal mood) (Sonne & Brady 2002). Periods of elevated mood and increased energy and activity are called "mania" or "hypomania", while lowered mood and decreased energy and activity is considered "depression" (World Health Organization [WHO] 1992). Bipolar disorder may also include psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions (O'Connell 1998).

Classification

Bipolar disorder can be characterised by different manifestations of the illness at different times. The ICD-10 features a range of diagnostic guidelines for various episodes of bipolar disorder: for example, current episode manic with or without psychotic symptoms; current episode severe depression with or without psychotic symptoms (WHO 1992). Bipolar disorders are classified as bipolar I and bipolar II. Bipolar I is the most severe, characterised by manic episodes that last for at least a week and depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks. People can also have symptoms of both depression and mania at the same time (called 'mixed mania'), which may carry a heightened risk of suicide. Bipolar II disorder is characterised by episodes of hypomania, a less severe form of mania, which lasts for at least four consecutive days. Hypomania is interspersed with depressive episodes that last for at least 14 days. Due to elevated mood and inflated self-esteem, people with bipolar II disorder often enjoy being hypomanic and are more likely to seek treatment during a depressive episode than a manic period (Sonne & Brady 2002). Other affective disorders include cyclothymia, characterised by persistent instability of mood, with frequent periods of mild depression and mild elation (WHO 1992).


As with many other mental illnesses, a significant proportion of people with bipolar disorder misuse alcohol, often complicating their condition. The American Epidemiologic Catchment Area study reported the following findings in relation to bipolar disorders and alcohol:

  • 60.7% lifetime prevalence for substance misuse or dependence in persons with bipolar I disorder. Alcohol was the most commonly misused substance, with 46.2% of people with bipolar I disorder experiencing alcohol misuse or dependence at some point in their lives
  • The lifetime prevalence of alcohol problems among people with bipolar II disorder was also very high. The likelihood of having bipolar II disorder and any substance misuse or dependence was 48.1%. Again, alcohol was the most commonly misused substance, with 39.2% having either alcohol misuse or dependence at some time in their lives
  • For people with any bipolar disorder, the likelihood of having alcohol misuse or dependence is 5.1 times that of the rest of the population-Of the different mental health problems examined in the survey, bipolar I and bipolar II disorders ranked second and third respectively (after antisocial personality disorder) for lifetime prevalence of any alcohol diagnosis (misuse or dependence) (Regier et al. 1990).

 

The relationship between bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse

 

The relationship between alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder is complex and frequently bidirectional (Sonne & Brady 2002). Explanations for the relationship between the two conditions include the following:

  • Bipolar disorder may be a risk factor for alcohol misuse (Sonne & Brady 2002)
  • Alternatively, the symptoms of bipolar disorder may emerge during chronic alcohol intoxication or during withdrawal (Sonne & Brady 2002)
  • People with bipolar disorder may use alcohol during manic episodes in an attempt at "self-medication", either to extend their pleasurable state or to dampen the agitation of mania (Sonne & Brady 2002)
  • There is evidence of familial transmission of both alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder, suggesting a family history of bipolar disorder or alcohol misuse can be important risk factors for these conditions (see studies by Merikangas & Gelernter 1990; Preisig et al. 2001, cited in Sonne & Brady 2002)

Alcohol use and withdrawal may affect the same brain chemicals (ie neurotransmitters) involved in bipolar disorder, thereby allowing one disorder to alter the clinical course of the other. In other words, alcohol use or withdrawal may "prompt" the symptoms of bipolar disorder (Tohen et al. 1998, cited in Sonne & Brady 2002).

 

Where is bipolar disorder treated?

 

People with bipolar disorder are frequently treated by GPs and community mental health teams, and in a range of settings, including hospitals, psychiatric wards and psychiatric day hospitals, and special residential care (Gupta & Guest 2002).

Clinicians working with people with comorbid alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder should be competent in the treatment of addictions and bipolar illness. The integrated treatment advocated in the Dual Diagnosis Good Practice Guide entails the concurrent provision of psychiatric and substance misuse interventions, with the same staff member or clinical team working in one setting to provide treatment in a co-ordinated manner (Department of Health [DoH] 2002; see also Mind the Gap, published by the Scottish Executive, 2003). Integrated treatment helps to ensure that both comorbid conditions are treated.

Some dual diagnosis specialist substance misuse services - which include staffing by mental health professionals - also treat clients with comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol problems (see, for example, MIDAS in East Hertfordshire, reported in Bayney et al. 2002).

Research findings: clinical characteristics

The following section looks at some of the clinical characteristics that the research literature has identified in people with comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse.

High incidence of comorbidity

As noted previously, of all the different mental health problems considered in the Epidemiologic Catchment Area study, bipolar I and bipolar II disorders ranked second and third for lifetime prevalence of alcohol misuse or dependence (Regier et al. 1990). Other researchers have also found high rates of comorbidity. For example, a study by Winokur et al. (1998) found that alcohol misuse is more frequent among people with bipolar disorder than those with unipolar depression. Therefore, despite the comparatively low incidence of bipolar disorder, the likelihood of alcohol misuse increases markedly with this condition.

Gender

As with the general population, men with bipolar disorder tend to be more likely than women with bipolar disorder to experience alcohol problems. A study by Frye et al. (2003) found that fewer women with bipolar disorder had a lifetime history of alcohol misuse (29.1% of subjects), compared with men with bipolar disorder (49.1%). However, women with bipolar disorder had a much greater likelihood of alcohol misuse compared with the general female population (odds ratio 7.25), than did men with bipolar disorder compared with the general male population (odds ratio 2.77). This suggests that, while men with bipolar disorder are more likely to present with comorbid alcohol misuse than women, bipolar disorder may particularly heighten women's risk of alcohol misuse (when compared to women without the disorder). The study also demonstrates the importance of mental health professionals carefully assessing alcohol use on an ongoing basis among both men and women with bipolar disorder (Frye et al. 2003).

Family history

There may be a link between family history of bipolar illness and alcohol misuse. Research by Winokur et al. (1998) found that, among people with bipolar disorder, familial diathesis (susceptibility) for mania is significantly associated with substance misuse. Family history may be more significant for men than for women. The study by Frye and colleagues (2003) found a stronger relationship between family history of bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse among men with this comorbidity than among women (Frye et al. 2003).


Other mental health problems

In addition to substance misuse problems, bipolar disorders often co-exist with other mental health problems. A study of patients with bipolar disorder found that 65% had lifetime psychiatric comorbidity for at least one comorbid problem: 42% had comorbid anxiety disorders, 42% substance use disorders, and 5% had eating disorders (McElroy et al. 2001).

Greater severity of symptoms/poorer outcome

Comorbidity of bipolar disorder and substance misuse may be associated with a more adverse onset and course of bipolar disorder. Comorbid conditions are associated with early age at onset of affective symptoms and the bipolar disorder syndrome (McElroy et al. 2001). Compared to bipolar disorder alone, concurrent bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse may lead to more frequent hospitalisations and has been associated with more mixed mania and rapid cycling (four or more mood episodes within 12 months); symptoms considered to increase treatment-resistance (Sonne & Brady 2002). If left untreated, alcohol dependence and withdrawal are likely to worsen mood symptoms, creating an ongoing cycle of alcohol use and mood instability (Sonne & Brady 2002).

Poor medication compliance

There is evidence to suggest that people with comorbid alcohol misuse and bipolar disorder are less likely to be compliant with medication than people with bipolar disorder alone. A study by Keck et al. (1998) followed up bipolar disorder patients discharged from hospital, finding that patients with substance use disorders (including alcohol misuse) were less likely to be fully compliant with pharmacological treatment than patients without substance misuse problems. Importantly, the study also showed that patients with full treatment compliance were more likely to achieve syndromic recovery than those who were noncompliant or only partially compliant. Syndromic recovery was defined as "eight contiguous weeks during which the patient no longer met criteria for a manic, mixed or depressive syndrome" (Keck et al. 1998: 648). Given the relationship of full treatment compliance to syndromic recovery, this study demonstrates the deleterious impact of substance misuse on bipolar disorder, reiterating the pressing need for the treatment of substance misuse.

Suicide risk

Alcohol misuse may increase the risk of suicide among people with bipolar disorder. One study found that 38.4% of their subjects with comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse make a suicide attempt at some point in their lives, compared to 21.7% of those with bipolar disorder alone (Potash et al. 2000). The authors suggest one possible explanation for the increase in suicide is the "transient disinhibition" caused by alcohol. Potash et al. also found that bipolar disorder, alcohol misuse and attempted suicide cluster in some families, suggesting the possibility of a genetic explanation for these concurrent problems. A non-genetic explanation may be intoxication's "permissive effect" on suicidal behaviour in people with bipolar disorder (Potash et al. 2000).

Diagnostic issues

Determining a correct diagnosis is one of the principal concerns associated with comorbid alcohol misuse and (possible) bipolar disorder. Almost every person with alcohol problems reports mood swings, yet it is important to distinguish these alcohol-induced symptoms from actual bipolar disorder (Sonne & Brady 2002). On the other hand, early recognition of bipolar disorder may help commence appropriate treatment for the condition and lead to decreased vulnerability to alcohol problems (Frye et al. 2003).

Diagnosing bipolar disorder can be difficult because alcohol use and withdrawal, especially with chronic use, can mimic psychiatric disorders (Sonne & Brady 2002). Diagnostic accuracy may also be hampered due to underreporting of symptoms (particularly symptoms of mania), and because of common features shared by both bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse (such as involvement in pleasurable activities with high potential for painful consequences). People with bipolar disorder are also quite likely to misuse drugs other than alcohol (for example, stimulant drugs such as cocaine), which can further confuse the diagnostic process (Shivani et al. 2002). Therefore, it is important to consider whether a person misusing alcohol has an actual bipolar disorder or is merely showing symptoms similar to bipolar disorder.

Making a distinction between primary and secondary disorders can help determine prognosis and treatment: for example, some clients presenting with alcohol problems may have pre-existing bipolar disorder, and could benefit from pharmacological interventions (Schuckit 1979). According to one researcher, primary affective disorder "indicates a persistent change in affect or mood, occurring to the point of interfering with an individual's body and mind functioning" (Schuckit 1979:10). As noted, in people with bipolar disorder, both depression and mania will be observed in the client (Schuckit 1979). Primary alcohol misuse or dependence "implies that the first major life problem related to alcohol occurred in an individual who had no existing psychiatric disorder" (Schuckit 1979: 10). Such problems typically include four areas - legal, occupational, medical and social relationships (Shivani et al. 2002). In considering the relationship between primary and secondary disorders, one approach is to gather information from patients and their families and consider the chronology of when symptoms developed (Schuckit 1979). Medical records are also useful in determining the chronology of symptoms (Shivani et al. 2002).

Alcohol intoxication can produce a syndrome indistinguishable from mania or hypomania, characterised by euphoria, increased energy, decreased appetite, grandiosity, and sometimes paranoia. However, these alcohol-induced manic symptoms generally occur only during active alcohol intoxication - a period of sobriety would make these symptoms easier to differentiate from mania associated with actual bipolar I disorder (Sonne & Brady 2002). Similarly, alcohol-dependent patients undergoing withdrawal may appear to have depression, but studies have shown that depressive symptoms are common in withdrawal, and may persist for two to four weeks following withdrawal (Brown & Schuckit 1988). Observation over lengthier periods of abstinence following withdrawal will help determine a diagnosis of depression (Sonne & Brady 2002).


Given their more subtle psychiatric symptoms, bipolar II disorder and cyclothymia are even more difficult to diagnose reliably than bipolar I disorder. The researchers Sonne and Brady suggest that it is generally appropriate to diagnose bipolar disorder if bipolar symptoms clearly occur before the onset of alcohol problems or if they persist during periods of sustained abstinence. Family history and the severity of symptoms may also be useful factors in making a diagnosis (Sonne & Brady 2002).

In summary, means to help determine a possible diagnosis of comorbid bipolar disorder include:

  • Taking a careful history of the chronology of when symptoms developed
  • Considering family and medical history, and severity of symptoms
  • Observation of mood over extended periods of abstinence if possible.

Treatments for comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse

Pharmacological treatments (such as the mood stabilizer lithium) and psychological treatments (such as cognitive therapy and counselling) may work effectively for patients with bipolar disorder alone (O'Connell 1998; Manic Depression Fellowship). Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been effective in treating mania and depression in patients who, for example, are pregnant or unresponsive to standard treatments (Hilty et al. 1999; Fink 2001).

As noted earlier, concurrent alcohol misuse complicates the prognosis and treatment of people with bipolar disorder. However, there is little published information on specific pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments for this comorbidity (Sonne & Brady 2002). The following section is not intended as clinical guidance, but as an exploration of treatment considerations for this group.

Screening for alcohol misuse in mental health and primary care settings

Given the significance of alcohol in intensifying the symptoms of psychiatric disorders, clinicians in primary care and mental health services should screen for alcohol misuse when patients present with symptoms of bipolar disorder (Schuckit et al. 1998; Sonne & Brady 2002). A useful tool to gauge alcohol consumption is the World Health Organization's Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Download AUDIT at: http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2001/WHO_MSD_MSB_01.6a.pdf

Referral to mental health services for assessment

Early recognition of bipolar disorder may help commence appropriate treatment for the illness and lead to decreased vulnerability to alcohol problems (Frye et al. 2003). In conjunction with local mental health services, and with suitable training, substance misuse agencies should develop screening tools for mental health problems. This action may help determine whether clients need referral to mental health services for further assessment and treatment.

Treating the addiction and providing education

Given the negative impact of alcohol problems and the benefits of reducing consumption, it is important to treat alcohol problems in people with bipolar disorder. For example, reducing or stopping alcohol intake is recommended in the treatment of rapid cycling in bipolar patients (Kusumakar et al. 1997). In addition, education about the problems associated with alcohol misuse can help clients with pre-existing psychiatric problems (including bipolar disorder) (Schuckit et al. 1997).

Care planning

The Care Programme Approach (CPA) provides a framework for effective mental health care, and comprises:

  • Arrangements for assessing the needs of people accepted into mental health services
  • The formulation of a care plan that identifies the care required from different providers
  • The appointment of a key worker for the service user
  • Regular reviews of the care plan (DoH 1999a).

The Mental Health National Service Framework emphasises that the CPA should be applied to people with dual diagnosis, whether they are located in mental health or substance misuse services, beginning with a proper assessment (DoH 2002). A specialist dual diagnosis service in Ayrshire and Arran in Scotland illustrates the use of care planning for people with comorbid mental health and substance misuse problems. At Ayrshire and Arran, care programmes are planned in full consultation with the client, along with a thorough assessment of attendant risk. Care is rarely provided by the dual diagnosis team alone, but in liaison with mainstream services and other organisations relevant to the client's care (Scottish Executive 2003).

Given the complex problems associated with comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol misuse - such as high suicide risk and poor mediation compliance - it is important that clients with this comorbidity have their care planned and monitored through the CPA. Carers of people on CPA also have the right to an assessment of their needs and to their own written care plan, which should be implemented in consultation with the carer (DoH 1999b).

Medication

Medications frequently used for treating bipolar disorder include the mood stabiliser lithium and a number of anticonvulsants (Geddes & Goodwin 2001). However, these drugs might not be as effective for people with comorbid problems. For example, several studies have reported that substance misuse is a predictor of poor response of bipolar disorder to lithium (Sonne & Brady 2002). As noted, medication compliance can be low among people with bipolar disorder and substance misuse, and the efficacy of medications is frequently being tested (Keck et al. 1998; Kupka et al. 2001; Weiss et al. 1998). For reviews of medications, see Weiss et al. 1998; Geddes & Goodwin 2001; Sonne & Brady 2002.


Psychological interventions

Psychological interventions such as cognitive therapy may be effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder, possibly as an adjunct to medication (Scott 2001). These interventions can also be useful in treating people with co-existing alcohol problems (Sonne & Brady 2002; Petrakis et al. 2002). Cognitive therapy in patients with bipolar disorder aims "to facilitate acceptance of the disorder and the need for treatment; to help the individual recognise and manage psychosocial stressors and interpersonal problems; to improve medication adherence; to teach strategies to cope with depression and hypomania; to teach early recognition of relapse symptoms and coping techniques; to improve self-management through homework assignments; and to identify and modify negative automatic thoughts, and underlying maladaptive assumptions and beliefs" (Scott 2001: s166). Over a number of sessions, patient and therapist identify and explore problem areas in the patient's life, concluding with a review of the skills and techniques learned (Scott 2001). Cognitive therapy is not the only therapy that can be used for bipolar disorder patients - psychotherapies of proven efficiency in major depressive disorder, such as family therapies, are also being piloted (Scott 2001).

Relapse prevention group

The American researchers Weiss et al. (1999) have developed a manualised relapse prevention group therapy specifically for the treatment of comorbid bipolar disorder and substance misuse. As an integrated programme, the therapy focuses on the treatment of both disorders simultaneously. The group is not considered suitable for patients with acute symptoms of bipolar disorder. Participants must also be seeing a psychiatrist who is prescribing their medication. Weiss et al. are currently evaluating the effectiveness of this therapy.

The major goals of the program are to:

  1. "Educate patients about the nature and treatment of their two illnesses
  2. Help patients gain further acceptance of their illnesses
  3. Help patients offer and receive mutual social support in their effort to recover from their illnesses
  4. Help patients desire and attain a goal of abstinence from substances of abuse
  5. elp patients comply with the medication regimen and other treatment recommended for their bipolar disorder" (Weiss et al. 1999: 50).

Group therapy comprises 20 hour-long weekly sessions, each covering a specific topic. The group begins with a "check-in", in which participants report their progress towards meeting the treatment goals: saying whether they used alcohol or drugs in the preceding week; the state of their mood during the week; whether they took medications as directed; whether they experienced high risk situations; whether they used any positive coping skills learned in the group; and whether they anticipate any high risk situations in the coming week.

After check-in, the group leader reviews the highlights of the previous week's session and introduces the current group topic. This is followed by an instructive session and a discussion of the current topic. At each meeting, patients receive a session handout summarising the main points. Resources are also available at each session, including information about self-help groups for substance misuse, bipolar disorder and dual diagnosis issues.

Specific session topics cover areas such as:

  • The relationship between substance misuse and bipolar disorder
  • Instruction on the nature of "triggers"- ie, high-risk situations that might trigger substance misuse, mania and depression
  • Reviews on the concepts of depressive thinking and manic thinking
  • Experiences with family members and friends
  • Recognising early warning signs of relapse to mania, depression and substance misuse
  • Alcohol and drug refusal skills
  • Using self-help groups for addiction and bipolar disorder
  • Taking medication
  • Self-care, covering skills for establishing a healthy sleep pattern and HIV risk behaviours
  • Developing healthy and supportive relationships (Weiss et al.1999).

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References

Bayney, R., St John-Smith, P., and Conhye, A. (2002) 'MIDAS: a new service for the mentally ill with comorbid drug and alcohol misuse', Psychiatric Bulletin 26: 251-254.

Brown, S.A. and Schuckit, M.A. (1988) 'Changes in depression among abstinent alcoholics', Journal of Studies on Alcohol 49 (5): 412-417.

Department of Health (1999a) Effective Care Coordination in Mental Health Services: Modernising the Care Programme Approach, A Policy Booklet (http://www.publications.doh.gov.uk/pub/docs/doh/polbook.pdf)

Department of Health (1999b) A National Service Framework for Mental Health (http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/index.htm)

Department of Health (2002) Mental Health Policy Implementation Guide: Dual diagnosis Good Practice Guide .

Fink, M. (2001) 'Treating bipolar affective disorder', letter, British Medical Journal 322 (7282): 365a.

Frye, M.A. (2003) 'Gender differences in prevalence, risk, and clinical correlates of alcoholism comorbidity in bipolar disorder', American Journal of Psychiatry 158 (3): 420-426.

Geddes, J. and Goodwin, G. (2001) 'Bipolar disorder: clinical uncertainty, evidence-based medicine and large-scale randomised trials', British Journal of Psychiatry 178 (suppl. 41): s191-s194.

Gupta, R.D. and Guest, J.F. (2002) 'Annual cost of bipolar disorder to UK society', British Journal of Psychiatry 180: 227-233.

Hilty, D.M., Brady, K.T., and Hales, R.E. (1999) 'A review of bipolar disorder among adults', Psychiatric services 50 (2): 201-213.

Keck, P.E. et al. (1998) '12-month outcome of patients with bipolar disorder following hospitalization for a manic or mixed episode', American Journal of Psychiatry 155 (5): 646-652.

Kupka, R.W. (2001) 'The Stanley Foundation Bipolar Network: 2. Preliminary summary of demographics, course of illness and response to novel treatments', British Journal of Psychiatry 178 (suppl. 41): s177-s183.

Kusumakar, V. et al (1997) 'Treatment of mania, mixed state, and rapid cycling', Canadian Journal of Psychiatry 42 (suppl. 2): 79S-86S.

Manic Depression Fellowship Treatments (http://www.mdf.org.uk/?o=56892)

McElroy, S.L. et al. (2001) 'Axis I psychiatric comorbidity and its relationship to historical illness variables in 288 patients with bipolar disorder', American Journal of Psychiatry 158 (3): 420-426.

O'Connell, D.F. (1998) Dual disorders: Essentials for Assessment and Treatment, New York, The Haworth Press.

Petrakis, I.L. et al. (2002) 'Comorbidity of alcoholism and psychiatric disorders: An overview', Alcohol Research & Health26 (2): 81-89.

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Schuckit, M.A. (1979) 'Alcoholism and affective disorder: diagnostic confusion', in Goodwin, D.W. and Erickson, C.K. (eds), Alcoholism and Affective Disorders: Clinical, Genetic, and Biochemical Studies, New York, SP Medical & Scientific Books: 9-19.

Schuckit, M.A. et al. (1997) 'The life-time rates of three major mood disorders and four major anxiety disorders in alcoholics and controls', Addiction 92 (10): 1289-1304.

Scott, J. (2001) 'Cognitive therapy as an adjunct to medication in bipolar disorder', British Journal of Psychiatry 178 (suppl. 41): s164-s168.

Scottish Executive (2003) Mind the Gap: Meeting the Needs of People with Co-Occurring Substance and Mental Health Problems (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library5/health/mtgd.pdf )

Shivani, R., Goldsmith, R.J. and Anthenelli, R.M. (2002) 'Alcoholism and psychiatric disorders: diagnostic challenges', Alcohol Research & Health 26 (2): 90-98.

Sonne, S.C. and Brady, K.T. (2002) 'Bipolar disorder and alcoholism', Alcohol Research and Health 26 (2): 103-108.

Trevisan, L.A. et al. (1998) 'Complications of alcohol withdrawal: pathophysiological insights', Alcohol Health & Research World 22 (1): 61-66.

Weiss, R.D. et al. (1998) 'Medication compliance among patients with bipolar disorder and substance use disorder', Journal of Clinical Psychiatry 59 (4): 172-174.Weiss, R.D. et al. (1999) 'A relapse prevention group for patients with bipolar and substance use disorders', Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment 16 (1): 47-54.

World Health Organization (1992) The ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders: Clinical Descriptions and Diagnostic Guidelines, Geneva, World Health Organization.

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APA Reference
Staff, H. (2008, February 6). Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 2 from https://www.healthyplace.com/bipolar-disorder/articles/bipolar-disorder-and-alcohol-abuse-compliance

Last Updated: April 7, 2017