Posaconazole

Posaconazole is an azole antifungal indicated as follows: Posaconazole delayed-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis in adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg. ( 1.1 ) Posaconazole is indicated for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in patients who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or those with hematologic malignancies with prolonged neutropenia from chemotherapy as follows: ( 1.2 ) Posaconazole delayed-release tablets : adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg Posaconazole oral suspension: adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older Posaconazole oral suspension is indicated for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), including OPC refractory (rOPC) to itraconazole and/or fluconazole in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older. ( 1.3 )

1.1 Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis Posaconazole delayed-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis in adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg.

1.2 Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida Infections Posaconazole is indicated for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in patients who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or those with hematologic malignancies with prolonged neutropenia from chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] as follows: Posaconazole delayed-release tablets : adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg Posaconazole oral suspension: adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older

1.3 Treatment of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis Including Oropharyngeal Candidiasis Refractory to Itraconazole and/or Fluconazole Posaconazole oral suspension is indicated for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis, including oropharyngeal candidiasis refractory to itraconazole and/or fluconazole in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older.

Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets 100 mg of posaconazole: Yellow, coated, oblong tablets, debossed with "100" on one side. Posaconazole Oral Suspension 4,200 mg/105 mL (40 mg/mL) of posaconazole: White, cherry-flavored suspension in amber glass bottles with child-resistant closures. Posaconazole delayed-release tablet: 100 mg ( 3 ) Posaconazole oral suspension: 40 mg per mL ( 3 )

Known hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungal agents. ( 4.1 ) Coadministration of posaconazole with the following drugs is contraindicated: posaconazole increases concentrations and toxicities of: Sirolimus ( 4.2 , 7.2 ) CYP3A4 substrates (pimozide, quinidine): can result in QTc interval prolongation and cases of torsades de pointes (TdP) ( 4.3 , 5.2 , 7.2 ) HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Primarily Metabolized through CYP3A4 ( 4.4 , 7.2 ) Ergot alkaloids ( 4.5 , 7.2 ) Venetoclax: In patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) at initiation and during the ramp-up phase ( 4.6 , 5.10 , 7.2 )

4.1 Hypersensitivity Posaconazole is contraindicated in persons with known hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungal agents.

4.2 Use with Sirolimus Posaconazole is contraindicated with sirolimus. Concomitant administration of posaconazole with sirolimus increases the sirolimus blood concentrations by approximately 9-fold and can result in sirolimus toxicity [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 4.3 QT Prolongation with Concomitant Use with CYP3A4 Substrates Posaconazole is contraindicated with CYP3A4 substrates that prolong the QT interval. Concomitant administration of posaconazole with the CYP3A4 substrates, pimozide and quinidine may result in increased plasma concentrations of these drugs, leading to QTc prolongation and cases of torsades de pointes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ] . 4.4 HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Primarily Metabolized Through CYP3A4 Coadministration with the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that are primarily metabolized through CYP3A4 (e.g., atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin) is contraindicated since increased plasma concentration of these drugs can lead to rhabdomyolysis [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .

4.5 Use with Ergot Alkaloids Posaconazole may increase the plasma concentrations of ergot alkaloids (ergotamine and dihydroergotamine) which may lead to ergotism [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] .

4.6 Use with Venetoclax Coadministration of posaconazole with venetoclax at initiation and during the ramp-up phase is contraindicated in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) due to the potential for increased risk of tumor lysis syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ].

Calcineurin-Inhibitor Toxicity: Posaconazole increases concentrations of cyclosporine or tacrolimus; reduce dose of cyclosporine and tacrolimus and monitor concentrations frequently. ( 5.1 ) Arrhythmias and QTc Prolongation: Posaconazole has been shown to prolong the QTc interval and cause cases of TdP. Administer with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions. Do not administer with drugs known to prolong QTc interval and metabolized through CYP3A4. ( 5.2 , 7.2 ) Electrolyte Disturbances: Monitor and correct, especially those involving potassium (K + ), magnesium (Mg ++ ), and calcium (Ca ++ ), before and during posaconazole therapy. ( 5.3 ) Pseudoaldosteronism : Manifested by the onset or worsening of hypertension, and abnormal laboratory findings. Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels, and manage as necessary. ( 5.4 ) Hepatic Toxicity: Elevations in liver tests may occur. Discontinuation should be considered in patients who develop abnormal liver tests or monitor liver tests during treatment. ( 5.5 ) Concomitant Use with Midazolam: Posaconazole can prolong hypnotic/sedative effects. Monitor patients and benzodiazepine receptor antagonists should be available. ( 5.7 , 7.2 ) Vincristine Toxicity: Concomitant administration of azole antifungals, including posaconazole, with vincristine has been associated with neurotoxicity and other serious adverse reactions; reserve azole antifungals, including posaconazole, for patients receiving a vinca alkaloid, including vincristine, who have no alternative antifungal treatment options. ( 5.8 , 7.2 ) Breakthrough Fungal Infections : Monitor patients with severe diarrhea or vomiting when receiving Posaconazole delayed-release tablets and Posaconazole oral suspension. ( 5.9 ) Venetoclax Toxicity: Concomitant administration of posaconazole with venetoclax may increase venetoclax toxicities, including the risk of tumor lysis syndrome, neutropenia, and serious infections; monitor for toxicity and reduce venetoclax dose. ( 4.6 , 5.10 , 7.2 )

5.1 Calcineurin-Inhibitor Toxicity Concomitant administration of posaconazole with cyclosporine or tacrolimus increases the whole blood trough concentrations of these calcineurin-inhibitors [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Nephrotoxicity and leukoencephalopathy (including deaths) have been reported in clinical efficacy studies in patients with elevated cyclosporine or tacrolimus concentrations. Frequent monitoring of tacrolimus or cyclosporine whole blood trough concentrations should be performed during and at discontinuation of posaconazole treatment and the tacrolimus or cyclosporine dose adjusted accordingly.

5.2 Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation Some azoles, including posaconazole, have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram. In addition, cases of torsades de pointes have been reported in patients taking posaconazole. Results from a multiple time-matched ECG analysis in healthy volunteers did not show any increase in the mean of the QTc interval. Multiple, time-matched ECGs collected over a 12-hour period were recorded at baseline and steady-state from 173 healthy male and female volunteers (18-85 years of age) administered Noxafil oral suspension 400 mg twice daily with a high-fat meal. In this pooled analysis, the mean QTc (Fridericia) interval change from baseline was –5 msec following administration of the recommended clinical dose. A decrease in the QTc(F) interval (–3 msec) was also observed in a small number of subjects (n=16) administered placebo. The placebo-adjusted mean maximum QTc(F) interval change from baseline was <0 msec (–8 msec). No healthy subject administered Noxafil had a QTc(F) interval ≥500 msec or an increase ≥60 msec in their QTc(F) interval from baseline. Posaconazole should be administered with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions. Do not administer with drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval and are metabolized through CYP3A4 [see Contraindications (4.3) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ] .

5.3 Electrolyte Disturbances Electrolyte disturbances, especially those involving potassium, magnesium or calcium levels, should be monitored and corrected as necessary before and during posaconazole therapy.

5.4 Pseudoaldosteronism Pseudoaldosteronism, manifested by the onset of hypertension or worsening of hypertension, and abnormal laboratory findings (hypokalemia, low serum renin and aldosterone, and elevated 11-deoxycortisol), has been reported with posaconazole use in the postmarket setting. Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels and manage as necessary. Management of pseudoaldosteronism may include discontinuation of posaconazole, substitution with an appropriate antifungal drug that is not associated with pseudoaldosteronism, or use of aldosterone receptor antagonists.

5.5 Hepatic Toxicity Hepatic reactions (e.g., mild to moderate elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and/or clinical hepatitis) have been reported in clinical trials. The elevations in liver tests were generally reversible on discontinuation of therapy, and in some instances these tests normalized without drug interruption. Cases of more severe hepatic reactions including cholestasis or hepatic failure including deaths have been reported in patients with serious underlying medical conditions (e.g., hematologic malignancy) during treatment with posaconazole. These severe hepatic reactions were seen primarily in subjects receiving the Posaconazole oral suspension 800 mg daily (400 mg twice daily or 200 mg four times a day) in clinical trials. Liver tests should be evaluated at the start of and during the course of posaconazole therapy. Patients who develop abnormal liver tests during posaconazole therapy should be monitored for the development of more severe hepatic injury. Patient management should include laboratory evaluation of hepatic function (particularly liver tests and bilirubin). Discontinuation of posaconazole must be considered if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop that may be attributable to posaconazole.

5.6 Renal Impairment Due to the variability in exposure with Posaconazole delayed-release tablets and Posaconazole oral suspension, patients with severe renal impairment should be monitored closely for breakthrough fungal infections [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ].

5.7 Midazolam Toxicity Concomitant administration of posaconazole with midazolam increases the midazolam plasma concentrations by approximately 5-fold. Increased plasma midazolam concentrations could potentiate and prolong hypnotic and sedative effects. Patients must be monitored closely for adverse effects associated with high plasma concentrations of midazolam and benzodiazepine receptor antagonists must be available to reverse these effects [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .

5.8 Vincristine Toxicity Concomitant administration of azole antifungals, including posaconazole, with vincristine has been associated with neurotoxicity and other serious adverse reactions, including seizures, peripheral neuropathy, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, and paralytic ileus. Reserve azole antifungals, including posaconazole, for patients receiving a vinca alkaloid, including vincristine, who have no alternative antifungal treatment options [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] .

5.9 Breakthrough Fungal Infections Patients who have severe diarrhea or vomiting should be monitored closely for breakthrough fungal infections when receiving Posaconazole delayed-release tablets or Posaconazole oral suspension. […]

The following serious and otherwise important adverse reactions are discussed in detail in another section of the labeling: Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Electrolyte Disturbances [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Pseudoaldosteronism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Hepatic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Common adverse reactions in studies with posaconazole are diarrhea, nausea, fever, vomiting, headache, coughing, and hypokalemia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in clinical trials of Noxafil cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis in Adults and Adolescents (Noxafil Injection and Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablets) The safety of Noxafil injection and Noxafil delayed-release tablets was assessed in a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled clinical study of Noxafil injection and Noxafil delayed-release tablets versus voriconazole for treatment of invasive aspergillosis (Aspergillosis Treatment Study). A total of 575 adult and pediatric patients 14 years of age and older (288 in the Noxafil group, 287 in voriconazole group (voriconazole for injection or voriconazole tablets)) with proven, probable or possible invasive aspergillosis were included. The median duration of treatment was 67 days for Noxafil injection or Noxafil delayed-release tablet and 64 days for voriconazole (voriconazole for injection). In this study, with 55% to 60% of patients started intravenous treatment with Noxafil (Noxafil injection) or voriconazole (voriconazole for injection). The median duration of the first instance of intravenous treatment (before switching to oral treatment or discontinuing or completing study treatment) was 9 days for both groups. Table 5 presents adverse reactions reported at an incidence of ≥10% in either one of the treatment groups in the Aspergillosis Treatment Study. Adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation were reported for 34% of patients. The most commonly reported adverse reactions (>2% of patients) leading to treatment discontinuation were septic shock, respiratory failure, and bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in the Noxafil group, and septic shock and acute myeloid leukemia in the voriconazole group. The most frequently reported adverse reactions in the Noxafil-treated group were pyrexia (28%), hypokalemia (28%), and nausea (23%). Table 5: Adverse Reactions in at least 10% of Adults and Adolescents Receiving Noxafil Injection or Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablets for the Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis Adverse Reactions Noxafil injection or Noxafil delayed-release tablets n=288 (%) Voriconazole for injection or Voriconazole tablets n=287 (%) Percentage of Patients Reporting any Adverse Reaction 97.6

97.6 Hypokalemia 28.5

17.1 Pyrexia 28.1

25.1 Nausea 22.6

17.8 Diarrhea 18.1

18.1 Vomiting 18.1

13.6 Alanine aminotransferase increased 14.6

12.9 Febrile neutropenia 14.6

13.2 Aspartate aminotransferase increased 13.2

12.5 Pneumonia 12.5

9.1 Headache 12.2

8.7 Constipation 11.1

8.0 Edema peripheral 11.1

8.4 Epistaxis 11.1

5.9 Cough 10.4

8.4 Abdominal pain 10.1

8.4 Hypomagnesemia 10.1

6.3 Clinical Trial Experience with Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablets for Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida Infections The safety of Noxafil delayed-release tablets has been assessed in 230 patients in clinical trials. Patients were enrolled in a non-comparative pharmacokinetic and safety trial of Noxafil delayed-release tablets when given as antifungal prophylaxis (Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablet Study). Patients were immunocompromised with underlying conditions including hematological malignancy, neutropenia post-chemotherapy, GVHD, and post HSCT. This patient population was 62% male, had a mean age of 51 years (range: 19-78 years, 17% of patients were ≥65 years of age), and were 93% White and 16% Hispanic. Noxafil delayed-release tablets were given for a median duration of 28 days. In this study, 20 adult patients received 200 mg daily dose and 210 adult patients received 300 mg daily dosage (following twice daily dosing on Day 1 in each cohort). Table 6 presents adverse reactions (incidence of >10%) observed in patients treated with the Noxafil delayed-release tablets 300 mg daily dosage in the Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablet Study. The most frequently reported adverse reactions (>25%) in patients treated with Noxafil delayed-release tablets 300 mg once daily were diarrhea, pyrexia, and nausea. The most common adverse reaction leading to discontinuation of Noxafil delayed-release tablets 300 mg once daily was nausea (2%). Table 6: Adverse Reactions in at least 10% of Adults Receiving Noxafil Delayed-Release Tablets (300 mg Daily Dosage) for the Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections Adverse Reactions Noxafil delayed-release tablet (300 mg) n=210 (%) Percentage of Patients Reporting any Adverse Reaction 99 Diarrhea 29 Pyrexia 28 Nausea 27 Hypokalemia 22 Cough 17 Edema Peripheral 16 Rash 16 Epistaxis 14 Headache 14 Mucosal Inflammation 14 Thrombocytopenia 14 Vomiting 13 Abdominal Pain 11 Hypertension 11 Anemia 10 Asthenia 10 Chills 10 Constipation 10 Hypomagnesemia 10 Clinical Trials Safety Experience with Noxafil Oral Suspension The safety of Noxafil oral suspension has been assessed in 1,844 patients, including: 605 patients in the active-controlled prophylaxis studies for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections 557 patients in the active-controlled OPC studies (not refractory to itraconazole or fluconazole) 239 patients in refractory OPC studies (refractory to itraconazole or fluconazole) (rOPC), and 443 patients in other patient populations These studies included immunocompromised patients (e.g., patients with hematological malignancy, neutropenia post-chemotherapy, GVHD post HSCT, and HIV infection), as well as non-neutropenic patients. This patient population was 71% male, had a mean age of 42 years (range: 8-84 years, 6% of patients were ≥65 years of age and 1% was <18 years of age), and were 64% White, 14% Black, and 16% Hispanic. Noxafil oral suspension therapy was given to 171 patients for ≥6 months, including 58 patients who received Noxafil oral suspension therapy for ≥12 months. Table 7 presents adverse reactions observed at an incidence of >10% in the studies for prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections. Table 8 presents adverse reactions observed at an incidence of at least 10% in the OPC/rOPC studies. Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida Infections (Noxafil oral suspension) In the two randomized, comparative studies for prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in those at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised (Noxafil Oral Suspension Study 1 and 2), the safety of Noxafil oral suspension 200 mg three times a day was compared to fluconazole 400 mg once daily or itraconazole 200 mg twice a day in severely immunocompromised patients. The most frequently reported adverse reactions (>30%) in these trials were fever, diarrhea, and nausea. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of Noxafil oral suspension were GI adverse reactions, specifically, nausea (2%), vomiting (2%), and hepatic enzymes increased (2%). […]

Table 12 and Table 13 include drugs with clinically important drug interactions when administered concomitantly with posaconazole and instructions for preventing or managing them. Table 14 includes important drug interactions specific to the absorption of posaconazole administered as Posaconazole oral suspension. These recommendations are based on either drug interaction studies or predicted interactions due to the expected magnitude of interaction and potential for serious adverse reactions or loss of efficacy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . The following information was derived from data with Noxafil oral suspension or another posaconazole tablet formulation unless otherwise noted. All clinically important drug interactions with Posaconazole oral suspension, except for those that affect the absorption of posaconazole (via gastric pH and motility), are considered relevant to clinically important drug interactions with Posaconazole delayed-release tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Consult the labeling of concomitantly used drugs to obtain further information about interactions with posaconazole. Interaction Drug Interaction Rifabutin, phenytoin, efavirenz, cimetidine, esomeprazole The drug interactions with esomeprazole and metoclopramide do not apply to Posaconazole tablets ( 7.3 , 12.3 ) . Avoid coadministration unless the benefit outweighs the risks ( 7.1 , 7.2 ) Other drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 Consider dosage adjustment and monitor for adverse effects and toxicity ( 7.2 ) Digoxin Monitor digoxin plasma concentrations ( 7.2 ) Fosamprenavir, metoclopramide Monitor for breakthrough fungal infections ( 7.1 )

7.1 Effects of Other Drugs on Posaconazole Posaconazole is primarily metabolized via UDP-glucuronosyltransferase and is a substrate of p-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux. Therefore, inhibitors or inducers of these clearance pathways may affect posaconazole plasma concentrations. Concomitant use of posaconazole with drugs that can decrease the plasma posaconazole concentrations should generally be avoided unless the benefit outweighs the risk. If such drugs are necessary, patients should be monitored closely for breakthrough fungal infections. Table 12: Drug Interactions Affecting Posaconazole When Administered Concomitantly with Other Drugs UDP-Glucuronidase Inducers Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Posaconazole is a UDP-glucuronosyltransferase substrate. Concomitant use of posaconazole with UDP-glucuronidase inducers may decrease posaconazole exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may reduce the effectiveness of posaconazole. Prevention or Management Efavirenz Avoid concomitant use of posaconazole with efavirenz, unless the benefit outweighs the risks. Rifabutin Avoid concomitant use of posaconazole with rifabutin unless the benefit to the patient outweighs the risk. If concomitant use is needed, monitor closely for breakthrough fungal infections. See Table 17 for rifabutin monitoring considerations when posaconazole affects rifabutin via CYP3A4 inhibition. Phenytoin Avoid concomitant use of posaconazole with phenytoin unless the benefit to the patient outweighs the risk. If concomitant use is needed, monitor for breakthrough fungal infections. See Table 17 for phenytoin monitoring considerations when posaconazole affects phenytoin via CYP3A4 inhibition. Fosamprenavir Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Concomitant use of posaconazole with fosamprenavir may lead to decreased posaconazole plasma concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may reduce effectiveness of posaconazole. Prevention or Management If concomitant use of posaconazole with fosamprenavir is needed, monitor closely for breakthrough fungal infections. Table 13: Drug Interactions Affecting Posaconazole Oral Suspension Absorption When Administered Concomitantly with Other Drugs Posaconazole Oral Suspension Cimetidine and Esomeprazole Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Concomitant use of Noxafil oral suspension with cimetidine or esomeprazole resulted in decreased posaconazole plasma concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may reduce effectiveness of posaconazole. Prevention or Management Avoid concomitant use of posaconazole oral suspension with cimetidine or esomeprazole unless the benefit outweighs the risks. If concomitant use is needed, monitor closely for breakthrough fungal infections. Metoclopramide Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Concomitant use of Noxafil oral suspension with metoclopramide decreased posaconazole plasma concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may reduce effectiveness of Posaconazole oral suspension. Prevention or Management If Posaconazole oral suspension is concomitantly administered with metoclopramide, closely monitor for breakthrough fungal infections.

7.2 Effects of Posaconazole on Other Drugs Posaconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Therefore, concomitant use of posaconazole may increase plasma concentrations of drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Table 14: Drug Interactions Affecting Drugs Administered Concomitantly with Posaconazole Digoxin Clinical Effect(s) Increased digoxin plasma concentrations have been reported in patients who received concomitant posaconazole and digoxin. Prevention or Management Monitor digoxin plasma concentrations during concomitant use of posaconazole. Glipizide Clinical Effect(s) No dosage modification of glipizide is needed when used concomitantly with posaconazole. However, glucose concentrations decrease in some patients concomitantly administered posaconazole and glipizide. Prevention or Management Increase monitoring of glucose concentrations when used concomitantly. CYP3A Substrates Immunosuppressants that are CYP3A4 Substrates Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Posaconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Therefore, plasma concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates may be increased by posaconazole use [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Prevention or Management Sirolimus Posaconazole is contraindicated with sirolimus [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Tacrolimus At initiation of posaconazole treatment, reduce the tacrolimus dosage to approximately one-third of the original tacrolimus dosage. Frequent monitoring of tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations should be performed during and at discontinuation of posaconazole treatment and the tacrolimus dosage should be modified accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Cyclosporine At initiation of posaconazole treatment reduce the cyclosporine dosage to approximately three-fourths of the original dosage. Frequent monitoring of cyclosporine whole blood trough concentrations should be performed during and at discontinuation of posaconazole treatment and the cyclosporine dosage should be modified accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . CYP3A4 Substrates that Prolong QTc Interval Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Concomitant use of posaconazole with CYP3A4 substrates such as pimozide and quinidine may result in increased plasma concentrations of the CYP3A4 substrates leading to QTc interval prolongation and torsades de pointes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Prevention or Management Pimozide Concomitant use with posaconazole is contraindicated. Quinidine HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors (Statins) that are CYP3A4 Substrates Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) Concomitant use of posaconazole with simvastatin increased simvastatin plasma concentrations which can lead to rhabdomyolysis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Prevention or Management Atorvastatin, Lovastatin, Simvastatin Concomitant use with posaconazole is contraindicated. […]

Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm. ( 8.1 ) Pediatrics: Safety and effectiveness in patients younger than 2 years of age have not been established. ( 8.4 ) Severe Renal Impairment : Monitor closely for breakthrough fungal infections. ( 8.6 )

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal data, posaconazole may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. Available data for use of Noxafil in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, skeletal malformations were observed when posaconazole was dosed orally to pregnant rats during organogenesis at doses ≥1.4 times the 400 mg twice daily oral suspension regimen based on steady-state plasma concentrations of Noxafil in healthy volunteers. In pregnant rabbits dosed orally during organogenesis, doses of ≥3 times the clinical exposure caused an increase in resorptions (see Data ) . Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data : Posaconazole resulted in maternal toxicity (reduced food consumption and reduced body weight gain) and skeletal malformations (cranial malformations and missing ribs) when given orally to pregnant rats during organogenesis (Gestational Days 6 through 15) at doses ≥27 mg/kg (≥1.4 times the 400 mg twice daily oral suspension regimen based on steady-state plasma concentrations of drug in healthy volunteers). The no-effect dose for malformations and maternal toxicity in rats was 9 mg/kg, which is 0.7 times the exposure achieved with the 400 mg twice daily oral suspension regimen. No malformations were seen in rabbits dosed during organogenesis (Gestational Days 7 through 19) at doses up to 80 mg/kg (5 times the exposure achieved with the 400 mg twice daily oral suspension regimen). In the rabbit, the no-effect dose was 20 mg/kg, while high doses of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg (3 or 5 times the clinical exposure) caused an increase in resorptions. In rabbits dosed at 80 mg/kg, a reduction in body weight gain of females and a reduction in litter size were seen.

8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of posaconazole in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Posaconazole is excreted in the milk of lactating rats. When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for posaconazole and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from posaconazole or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.4 Pediatric Use The posaconazole dosage forms (delayed-release tablets and oral suspension) are different products; are approved for different pediatric indications, age groups, and weights; have different dosing regimens; and have different preparation and administration instructions. Therefore, select the recommended dosage form based on the pediatric indication, age group, and weight [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis The safety and effectiveness of Posaconazole delayed-release tablets have been established for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older. Use of posaconazole for these pediatric indications is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of Noxafil in adults and safety and pharmacokinetic (PK) data from pediatric studies [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . The safety of Noxafil in pediatric patients for these pediatric indications was consistent with the known safety profile of Noxafil in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. The safety and effectiveness of posaconazole have not been established in pediatric patients less than 2 years of age . Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida Infections The safety and effectiveness of Posaconazole delayed-release tablets have been established for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised. The safety and effectiveness of Posaconazole oral suspension have been established for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in pediatric patients 13 years of age and older who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised. Use of posaconazole for these pediatric indications is supported by adequate and well-controlled studies of Noxafil in adults and pediatric patients aged 13 years and older and additional PK and safety data in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Clinical Studies (14) ] . The safety and effectiveness of posaconazole have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age. Treatment of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis, including Refractory to Itraconazole and/or Fluconazole The safety and effectiveness of Posaconazole oral suspension have been established for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), including OPC refractory (rOPC) to itraconazole and/or fluconazole in pediatric patients 13 years of age and older. Use of Posaconazole oral suspension for this pediatric indication is supported by adequate and well controlled studies in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older [see Clinical studies (14.4) ]. Posaconazole delayed-release tablets are not approved for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis in pediatric patients. Posaconazole oral suspension is the only dosage form approved for the treatment of OPC and rOPC in pediatric patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ]. The safety and effectiveness of Posaconazole oral suspension for the treatment of OPC and rOPC have not been established in pediatric patients less than 13 years of age.

8.5 Geriatric Use No overall differences in the safety of Noxafil delayed-release tablets and Noxafil oral suspension have been observed between geriatric patients and younger adult patients in the clinical trials; therefore, the recommended dosage in geriatric patients is the same as that for younger adult patients. No clinically meaningful differences in posaconazole pharmacokinetics were observed in Noxafil-treated geriatric patients compared to Noxafil-treated younger adult patients during clinical trials [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Of the 230 patients treated with Noxafil delayed-release tablets, 38 (17%) patients were >65 years of age. Of the 605 patients treated with Noxafil oral suspension in Noxafil Oral Suspension Study 1 and Study 2 (prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in those at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised), 63 (10%) patients were ≥65 years of age. In studies of Noxafil for an unapproved indication, 48 patients treated with Noxafil oral suspension (greater than or equal to 800 mg/day (eight times the maximum recommended maintenance dosage for the treatment of OPC)) were ≥65 years of age. Of the 288 patients treated with Noxafil injection or Noxafil delayed-release tablets in the Aspergillosis Treatment Study, 85 (29%) patients were ≥65 years of age.

8.6 Renal Impairment Posaconazole Oral Suspension and Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets No dosage adjustment is required for patients with eGFR 20 mL/minute/1.73 m 2 or higher. […]

Posaconazole is an azole antifungal agent [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4) ] .