Angeliq (estradiol 1 mg drospirenone 0.5 mg) Dailymed

• •Do not use with conditions that predispose to hyperkalemia (5.2
• •Estrogens increase the risk of gallbladder disease (5.5)
• •Discontinue estrogen if severe hypercalcemia, loss of vision, severe hypertriglyceridemia or cholestatic jaundice occurs (5.6, 5.7, 5.9, 5.10)
• •Monitor thyroid function in women on thyroid hormone replacement therapy (5.11, 5.19)

5.1 Cardiovascular Disorders

Increased risks of PE, DVT, stroke, and MI are reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Increased risks of stroke and DVT are reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Immediately discontinue estrogen with or without progestogen therapy if any of these occur or are suspected.

Manage appropriately any risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and/or obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) [for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, systemic lupus erythematosus].

Stroke

The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 strokes per 10,000 women years, respectively) [see Clinical Studies (14.4)]. The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted.¹ Immediately discontinue estrogen with or without progestogen therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected.

The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 strokes per 10,000 women-years). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year one and persisted ¹ [see Clinical Studies (14.4)]. Immediately discontinue estrogen-alone therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected.

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years).¹

Coronary Heart Disease

The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported an increased risk (not statistically significant) of coronary heart disease (CHD) events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) in those women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women-years).¹ An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5 [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported no overall effect on CHD events in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo² [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age, who were less than 10 years since menopause, suggest a reduction (not statistically significant) in CHD events in those women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years).¹

In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n=2,763), average 66.7 years of age, in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study; HERS), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established CHD. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand, three hundred and twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE plus MPA group and the placebo group in HERS, HERS II, and overall.

Venous Thromboembolism

The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant 2-fold greater rate of VTE (DVT and PE) in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (35 versus 17 per 10,000 women-years). Statistically significant increases in risk for both DVT (26 versus 13 per 10,000 women-years) and PE (18 versus 8 per 10,000 women-years) were also demonstrated. The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first year and persisted³ [see Clinical Studies (14.4)]. Immediately discontinue estrogen plus progestogen therapy if a VTE occurs or is suspected.

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, the risk of VTE was increased for women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (30 versus 22 per 10,000 women-years), although only the increased risk of DVT reached statistical significance (23 versus 15 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first 2 years⁴ [see Clinical Studies (14.4)]. Immediately discontinue estrogen-alone therapy if a VTE occurs or is suspected.

If feasible, discontinue estrogens at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery of the type associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization.

5.2 Hyperkalemia

Angeliq contains the progestin DRSP that has antialdosterone activity, including the potential for hyperkalemia in high-risk patients. Angeliq is contraindicated in patients with conditions that predispose to hyperkalemia (renal impairment, hepatic impairment, and adrenal insufficiency).

Use caution when prescribing Angeliq to women who regularly take other medications that can increase potassium, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin-II receptor antagonists, heparin and aldosterone antagonists. Consider monitoring serum potassium concentrations during the first month of dosing in high-risk patients who take strong CYP3A4 inhibitors long-term and concomitantly. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include azole antifungals (for example, ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitors (for example, indinavir, boceprevir), and clarithromycin [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.3 Malignant Neoplasms

Breast Cancer

After a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) reported an increased risk of invasive breast cancer in women who took daily CE plus MPA compared to placebo. In this substudy, prior use of estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy was reported by 26 percent of the women. The relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.24 and the absolute risk was 41 versus 33 cases per 10,000 women-years, for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.86 and the absolute risk was 46 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported no prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.09 and the absolute risk was 40 versus 36 cases per 10,000 women-years for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. In the same substudy, invasive breast cancers were larger, were more likely to be node positive, and were diagnosed at a more advanced stage in the CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) group compared with the placebo group. Metastatic disease was rare, with no apparent difference between the two groups. Other prognostic factors, such as histologic subtype, grade and hormone receptor status did not differ between the groups⁵ [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone provided information about breast cancer in estrogen-alone users. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone was not associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [relative risk (RR) 0.80]⁶ compared to placebo [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

Consistent with the WHI clinical trial, observational studies have also reported an increased risk of breast cancer with estrogen plus progestin therapy, and a smaller increase in the risk for breast cancer with estrogen-alone therapy, after several years of use. One large meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies reported increased risks that were dependent upon duration of use and could last up to >10 years after discontinuation of estrogen plus progestin therapy and estrogen-alone therapy. Extension of the WHI trials also demonstrated increased breast cancer risk associated with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Observational studies also suggest that the risk of breast cancer was greater, and became apparent earlier, with estrogen plus progestin therapy as compared to estrogen-alone therapy. These studies have not generally found significant variation in the risk of breast cancer among different estrogen plus progestin combinations, doses, or routes of administration.

The use of estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin has been reported to result in an increase in abnormal mammograms requiring further evaluation.

All women should receive yearly breast examinations by a healthcare provider and perform monthly breast self-examinations. In addition, mammography examinations should be scheduled based on patient age, risk factors, and prior mammogram results.

Endometrial Cancer

An increased risk of endometrial cancer has been reported with the use of unopposed estrogen therapy in a woman with a uterus. The reported endometrial cancer risk among unopposed estrogen users is about 2- to 12-fold greater than in non-users, and appears dependent on duration of treatment and on estrogen dose. Most studies show no significant increased risk associated with use of estrogens for less than 1 year. The greatest risk appears associated with prolonged use, with increased risks of 15- to 24-fold for 5 to 10 years or more. This risk has been shown to persist for at least 8 to 15 years after estrogen therapy is discontinued.

Clinical surveillance of all women using estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy is important. Perform adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding with unknown etiology.

There is no evidence that the use of natural estrogens results in a different endometrial risk profile than synthetic estrogens of equivalent estrogen dose. Adding a progestogen to estrogen therapy in postmenopausal women has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer.

Ovarian Cancer

The CE plus MPA substudy of WHI reported that estrogen plus progestin increased the risk of ovarian cancer. After an average follow-up of 5.6 years, the relative risk for ovarian cancer for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 1.58 (95 percent CI 0.77-3.24) but was not statistically significant. The absolute risk for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 4 versus 3 cases per 10,000 women-years.⁷

A meta-analysis of 17 prospective and 35 retrospective epidemiology studies found that women who used hormonal therapy for menopausal symptoms had an increased risk for ovarian cancer. The primary analysis, using case-control comparisons, included 12,110 cancer cases from the 17 prospective studies. The relative risks associated with current use of hormonal therapy was 1.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32 to 1.50); there was no difference in the risk estimates by duration of the exposure (less than 5 years [median of 3 years] vs. greater than 5 years [median of 10 years] of use before the cancer diagnosis). The relative risk associated with combined current and recent use (discontinued use within 5 years before cancer diagnosis) was 1.37 (95% CI 1.27 to 1.48), and the elevated risk was significant for both estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin products. The exact duration of hormone therapy use associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer, however, is unknown.

5.4 Probable Dementia

In the WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) estrogen plus progestin ancillary study, a population of 4,532 postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) or placebo. After an average follow-up of 4 years, 40 women in the CE plus MPA group and 21 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia.  The relative risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 2.05 (95 percent CI, 1.21-3.48). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 45 versus 22 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸ [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5), and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

In the WHIMS estrogen-alone ancillary study, a population of 2,947 hysterectomized women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone or placebo. After an average follow-up of 5.2 years, 28 women in the estrogen-alone group and 19 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia. The relative risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 1.49 (95 percent CI, 0.83-2.66). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 37 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸ [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

When data from the two populations in the WHIMS estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin ancillary studies were pooled as planned in the WHIMS protocol, the reported overall relative risk for probable dementia was 1.76 (95 percent CI 1.19-2.60). Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸ [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

5.5 Gallbladder Disease

A 2- to 4-fold increase in the risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery in postmenopausal women receiving estrogens has been reported.

5.6 Hypercalcemia

Estrogen administration may lead to severe hypercalcemia in women with breast cancer and bone metastases. Discontinue estrogen plus progestin, including Angeliq if hypercalcemia occurs, and take appropriate measures to reduce the serum calcium concentration.

5.7 Visual Abnormalities

Retinal vascular thrombosis has been reported in women receiving estrogens. Discontinue Angeliq pending examination if there is sudden partial or complete loss of vision, or a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. Permanently discontinue estrogen plus progestin, including Angeliq, if examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions.

5.8 Elevated Blood Pressure

In a small number of case reports, substantial increases in blood pressure have been attributed to idiosyncratic reactions to estrogens. In a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a generalized effect of estrogen therapy on blood pressure was not seen.

5.9 Exacerbation of Hypertriglyceridemia

In women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis. Discontinuation Angeliq if pancreatitis occurs.

5.10 Hepatic Impairment and/or Past History of Cholestatic Jaundice

Estrogens may be poorly metabolized in women with hepatic impairment. Exercise caution in any woman with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy. In the case of recurrence of cholestatic jaundice, discontinue Angeliq.

The clearance of drospirenone was decreased in patients with moderate hepatic impairment.

5.11 Exacerbation of Hypothyroidism

Estrogen administration leads to increased thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) concentrations. Women with normal thyroid function can compensate for the increased TBG by making more thyroid hormone, thus maintaining free T₄ and T₃ serum concentrations in the normal range. Women dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy who are also receiving estrogens may require increased doses of their thyroid replacement therapy. Monitor thyroid function in these women during treatment with Angeliq to maintain their free thyroid hormone concentrations in an acceptable range.

5.12 Fluid Retention

Estrogens plus progestogens may cause some degree of fluid retention. Monitor any woman with a condition(s) that might predispose her to fluid retention, such as a cardiac or renal impairment. Discontinue estrogen plus progestogen therapy, including Angeliq, with evidence of medically concerning fluid retention.

5.13 Hypocalcemia

Estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur in women with hypoparathyroidism. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy, including Angeliq, outweigh the risks in such women.

5.14 Hyponatremia

As an aldosterone antagonist, drospirenone may increase the possibility of hyponatremia in high-risk women.

5.15 Exacerbation of Endometriosis

A few cases of malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants have been reported in women treated post-hysterectomy with estrogen-alone therapy.

5.16 Hereditary Angioedema

Exogenous estrogens may exacerbate symptoms of angioedema in women with hereditary angioedema. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy, including Angeliq, outweigh the risks in such women.

5.17 Exacerbation of Other Conditions

Estrogen therapy, including Angeliq, may cause an exacerbation of asthma, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, migraine, porphyria, systemic lupus erythematosus otosclerosis, chorea minor and hepatic hemangiomas. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy outweigh the risks in women with such conditions.

5.18 Laboratory Tests

Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol concentrations have not been shown to be useful in the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms.

5.19 Interference with Laboratory Tests

• •Accelerated prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet aggregation time; increased platelet count; increased factors II, VII antigen, VIII antigen, VIII coagulant activity, IX, X, XII, VII–X complex, II–VII–X complex, and beta-thromboglobulin; decreased concentrations of anti-factor Xa and antithrombin III, decreased antithrombin III activity; increased concentrations of fibrinogen and fibrinogen activity; increased plasminogen antigen and activity.
• •Increased TBG concentrations leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI), T₄ concentrations (by column or by radioimmunoassay) or T₃ concentrations by radioimmunoassay. T₃ resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T₄ and free T₃ concentrations are unaltered. Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone.
• •Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum, for example, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), sex hormone binding globulin, leading to increased total circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free hormone concentrations, such as testosterone and estradiol, may be decreased. Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-l-antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin).
• •Increased plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL₂ subfraction concentrations, reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration, and increased triglyceride concentrations.
• •Impaired glucose tolerance.

6 Adverse Reactions

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:

• •Cardiovascular Disorders [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• •Malignant Neoplasms [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]

The most common adverse reactions with Angeliq that occurred in at least 1% of users in clinical trials are: gastrointestinal and abdominal pain, female genital tract bleeding, breast pain and discomfort, and headache. (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-888-842-2937 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 the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

From clinical trials with different dose formulations of Angeliq containing E2 dose ranging from 0.5 mg to 1.0 mg combined with DRSP dose ranging from 0.25 mg to 3 mg:

• •The most common adverse reactions were gastrointestinal and abdominal pain, female genital bleeding, breast pain and headache. The frequencies of common adverse reactions, in general, were higher for the Angeliq dose formulation containing E2 1 mg compared to Angeliq containing E2 0.5 mg.
• •The most common adverse reactions leading to drug discontinuation in controlled clinical trials were abdominal pain, headache, postmenopausal bleeding, breast tenderness, and weight increased.

Placebo-Controlled Trial:

In a placebo-controlled trial evaluating Angeliq 0.25 mg DRSP/0.5 mg E2, 183 postmenopausal women received at least one dose of DRSP 0.25 mg/0.5 mg E2 and 180 received placebo. Study participants were treated for 3 cycles of 28 days each for a total of 12 weeks of treatment. The median age was 53 years (range: 40-77 years) and over 50% of women had a hysterectomy, 68% were Caucasian and 24% were Black. Table 1 summarizes adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of women receiving Angeliq 0.25 mg DRS/0.5 mg E2 and at a higher incidence than subjects receiving placebo.

Table 1: Adverse Reactions that Occurred at a Frequency of ≥ 2% with Angeliq 0.25 mg DRSP/0.5 mg E2 and at a Higher Incidence than Placebo

Adverse Reaction	Angeliq (0.25 mg DRSP/0.5 mg E2)N=183 (100%) n (%)	Placebo N=180 (100%) n (%)
Gastrointestinal and abdominal painsGastrointestinal and abdominal pain includes: abdominal pain (overall, lower, and upper), abdominal discomfort, abdominal tenderness	11 (6.0)	5 (2.8)
Headache	11 (6.0)	9 (5.0)
Vulvovaginal fungal infections	10 (5.5)	1 (0.6)
Breast painBreast pain includes: breast pain, breast tenderness, nipple pain	6 (3.3)	1 (0.6)
Nausea	6 (3.3)	2 (1.1)
Diarrhea	4 2.2)	1 (0.6)
Peripheral Edema	4 (2.2)	2 (1.1)

Pooled data of clinical trials with different dose formulations of Angeliq:

Data from 13 clinical trials in postmenopausal women treated with different dose formulations of Angeliq containing 1 mg E2 (1 mg E2 + 0.5 mg – 3.0 mg DRSP; N=2842) were pooled to provide an overall estimate of adverse reactions. Similarly, data from 2 clinical trials with Angeliq containing 0.5 mg E2 (0.5 mg E2 + DRSP 0.25 mg – 0.5 mg; N=853) were pooled for the same purpose. Table 2 shows adverse reactions reported in at least 1% of women treated with Angeliq.

Table 2: Adverse Reactions that Occurred at a Frequency of ≥ 1% in Clinical Trials

Adverse Reaction	Angeliq containing 1 mg E2 N = 2842 n (%)	Angeliq containing 0.5 mg E2 N=853 n (%)
Breast pain or discomfort	508 (17.9)	53 (6.2)
Female genital tract bleeding	397 (14.0)	21 (2.5)
Gastrointestinal and abdominal pain	186 (6.5)	31 (3.6)
Cervical polyp	34 (1.2)	3 (0.4)
Emotional lability	35 (1.2)	11 (1.3)
Migraine	28 (1.0)	5 (0.6)

Adverse Reactions in clinical studies were coded using the MedDRA dictionary (version 13.0). Different MedDRA terms representing the same medical phenomenon have been grouped together as single adverse reactions to avoid diluting or obscuring the true effect.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following additional adverse reactions have been reported during post-approval use of Angeliq. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establishing a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, pruritis, and urticaria

Reproductive system and breast disorders: Breast cancer

Vascular disorders: venous and arterial thromboembolic events (peripheral deep venous occlusion, thrombosis and embolism/pulmonary vascular occlusion, thrombosis, embolism and infarction/myocardial infarction/cerebral infarction and stroke not specified as hemorrhagic)

7 Drug Interactions

• •Inducers and inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism and decrease or increase the estrogen plasma concentration. (7.1)
• •Serum potassium concentration may increase in women taking drospirenone with other drugs that have the potential to increase potassium. (7.1)

7.1 Metabolic Interactions

Effect of Drospirenone on Other Drugs

The potential effect of DRSP on CYP2C19 activity was investigated in a clinical pharmacokinetic study using omeprazole as a marker substrate. No significant effect of DRSP on the systemic clearance of the CYP3A4 product omeprazole sulfone was found. These results demonstrated that DRSP did not inhibit CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 in vivo. Two further clinical drug-drug interaction studies using simvastatin and midazolam as marker substrates for CYP3A4, respectively, were performed and the results of these studies demonstrated that pharmacokinetics of the CYP3A4 substrates were not influenced by steady-state DRSP concentrations.

Co-administration of DRSP and drugs that may increase serum potassium: There is a potential for an increase in serum potassium in women taking DRSP with other drugs that may affect electrolytes, such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, or NSAIDs, more pronounced in diabetic women [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Electrolytes were studied in postmenopausal women with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus requiring an ACE inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker. After 28 days of exposure to 1 mg E2 and 3 mg DRSP (n=112) or placebo (n=118). The mean change from baseline in serum potassium was 0.11 mEq/L for the E2/DRSP group and 0.08 mEq/L for the placebo group. None of the subjects with serum potassium concentrations ≥5.5 mEq/L had cardiovascular adverse events.

A drug-drug interaction study of DRSP 3 mg/E2 1 mg versus placebo was performed in mildly hypertensive postmenopausal women taking enalapril maleate 10 mg twice daily. Potassium concentrations were obtained every other day for a total of 2 weeks in all subjects. Mean serum potassium concentrations in the DRSP/E2 treatment group relative to baseline were 0.22 mEq/L higher than those in the placebo group. On Day 14, the ratios for serum potassium C_max and AUC in the DRSP/E2 group to those in the placebo group were 0.955 (90% CI: 0.914, 0.999) and 1.01 (90% CI: 0.944, 1.08), respectively. No woman in either treatment group developed hyperkalemia (serum potassium concentrations >5.5 mEq/L).

Of note, occasional or chronic use of NSAID medication was not restricted in any of the Angeliq clinical trials.

Effect of Other Drugs on Estrogens and Progestins

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that estrogens and progestins are metabolized partially by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Therefore, inducers or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism. In a clinical drug-drug interaction study conducted in premenopausal women, once daily co-administration of DRSP 3 mg/E2 1.5 mg containing tablets with strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily for 10 days resulted in a moderate increase of exposure and a mild increase of peak concentration for DRSP. The E2 exposure and peak concentration were unaffected by ketoconazole, although the exposure and peak concentration of estrone (E1) increased. Although no clinically relevant effects on any safety or laboratory parameters including serum potassium were observed, this study only assessed women for 10 days. The clinical impact for a woman taking a DRSP-containing combination hormone and chronic use of a CYP3A4/5 inhibitor is unknown.

Substances decreasing the exposure and possibly diminishing the efficacy of estrogens and progestins (enzyme inducers)

Inducers of CYP3A4 such as St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and rifampin may reduce plasma concentrations of estrogens and progestins, possibly resulting in a decrease in therapeutic effects and/or changes in the uterine bleeding profile.

Substances increasing the exposure of estrogens and progestins (enzyme inhibitors)

Concomitant administration of moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as azole antifungals (for example, ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole), verapamil, macrolides (for example, clarithromycin, erythromycin), diltiazem, and grapefruit juice did increase the plasma concentrations of the estrogen or the progestin or both [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

HIV/HCV protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

Significant changes (increase or decrease) in the plasma concentrations of estrogen and progestin have been noted in some cases of co-administration with HIV/HCV protease inhibitors or with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.

7.2 Interaction with Alcohol

Acute alcohol ingestion during use of hormone therapy may lead to elevations of circulating E2 concentrations.

8 Use In Specific Populations

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Angeliq is not indicated for use in pregnancy. There are no data with the use of Angeliq in pregnant women, however, epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or nongenital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies or limb-reduction defects) following exposure to combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogens and progestins) before conception or during early pregnancy.

In reproduction studies in rats, rabbits and monkeys with oral administration of DRSP either as single compound or in combination with EE, no non-genital teratogenicity was observed. Adverse developmental outcomes like an increase in fetal mortality and a retardation of fetal maturation were seen in rats and rabbits at exposures to DRSP exceeding the human exposure by a factor of >15 (in rats) or >60 (rabbits). Related to the antiandrogenic activity of drospirenone, a feminization of male fetuses and an impairment of male fertility was observed in rats (>150 times the human exposure to drospirenone) but not in monkeys (at up to more than 300 times the human exposure to drospirenone). Due to the large safety margins observed in the animal studies only a low likelihood of an increased risk for human pregnancy was concluded (see Data).

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

In an embryo-fetal toxicity study in pregnant rats, DRSP was given from day 6 to 15 of gestation orally at doses of 5, 15 and 45 mg/kg/day, more than 60 times the human exposure starting from the low dose based on AUC of DRSP. A slight increase in postimplantational loss and a slight increase in retardation of fetal development (e.g. delayed ossification of bones of the feet) was seen in the two higher doses. No teratogenicity was observed in rats.

In an embryo-fetal study in rabbits, DRSP was given from day 6 to 18 of gestation orally at doses of 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg/day, about 20, 60 and 250 times the human exposure based on AUC. This resulted in a retardation of fetal development (delayed ossification of small bones, multiple fusions of ribs) at the high dose only and in an increase in fetal loss from the mid dose level. No compound-related teratogenicity was seen in rabbits.

In a further embryo-fetal toxicity study in pregnant rats, DRSP was orally administered in combination with ethinyl estradiol (100:1) from day 6 to 17 of gestation at doses of 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg/day DRSP, at about 1, 3 and 23 times the human exposure to DRSP on basis of AUC. Maternal toxicity (decreased body weight gain and food consumption) was seen starting at the low dose and an increase of early resorptions at the high dose level. Skeletal variations and retardations were seen in fetuses at the high dose. No malformed fetuses and no effect on the external genitalia of the fetuses were observed.

DRSP was administered with ethinyl estradiol (100:1) orally to pregnant rats during late pregnancy from day 14 to 21 of gestation (the period of genital development) at doses of 5, 15 and 45 mg/kg of DRSP, more than 60 times the human exposure starting from the low dose based on AUC of DRSP. Maternal toxicity (decreased body weight gain) and fetal retardation (decreased fetal body weights) were seen starting at the low dose. There was a dose dependent increase in feminization of male rat fetuses starting at the mid dose level (that is, >150 times the human exposure to DRSP).

DRSP was administered with ethinyl estradiol (100:1) orally to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys at doses up to 10 mg/kg DRSP, more than 300 times the human exposure based on AUC from day 20 to 90 of gestation. A dose-dependent increase of abortions was observed. No teratogenic or feminization effects were seen in any dose group.

DRSP was administered with ethinyl estradiol (100:1) in a peri-postnatal study in rats from day 6 to 16 of gestation and day 1 to 22 postpartum at doses of 5, 15 and 45 mg/kg; more than 60 times the human exposure starting from the low dose based on AUC of DRSP. There was a dose dependent delay in fetal development and an increase in mortality of the F1-generation during the lactational phase. Fertility was impaired in the male offspring at the high dose level.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

Estrogens plus progestogens are present in human milk and can reduce milk production in breast-feeding women. This reduction can occur at any time but is less likely to occur once breast-feeding is well established. After administration of an oral contraceptive containing DRSP about 0.02% of the DRSP dose was excreted into the breast milk of postpartum women within 24 hours. This results in a maximal daily dose of about 3 mcg DRSP in an infant. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Angeliq and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from Angeliq or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Angeliq is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.

8.5 Geriatric Use

There have not been sufficient numbers of geriatric women involved in clinical studies utilizing Angeliq to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger women in their response to Angeliq.

The Womens Health Initiative Studies

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.3) and Clinical Studies (14.4)].

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The Womens Health Initiative Memory Study

In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen plus progestin or estrogen-alone when compared to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4), and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸ [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4), and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

Angeliq is contraindicated in patients with renal impairment because of the risk of hyperkalemia [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2 )  and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

Angeliq is contraindicated in patients with hepatic impairment because of the risk of increased DRSP exposure and subsequent hyperkalemia [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.10)   and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.8 Adrenal Insufficiency

Angeliq is contraindicated in patients with adrenal insufficiency because of the risk of hyperkalemia [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].