ARTHROTEC (diclofenac sodium 50 mg misoprostol 200 ug) Dailymed
Generic: diclofenac sodium and misoprostol is used for the treatment of Arthritis, Juvenile Arthritis, Rheumatoid Asthma Bronchial Spasm Dysmenorrhea Inflammation Keratosis Osteoarthritis Porphyrias Pregnancy Trimester, Third Rhinitis Spondylitis, Ankylosing Urticaria Bronchial Hyperreactivity Photophobia Pregnancy Stomach Ulcer
IMPRINT: SEARLE 1411 AAAA 50
SHAPE: round
COLOR: white
All Imprints
diclofenac sodium 75 mg / misoprostol 0.2 mg delayed release oral tablet [arthrotec] - searle 1421 aaaa 75 round white
diclofenac sodium 50 mg / misoprostol 0.2 mg delayed release oral tablet [arthrotec] - searle 1411 aaaa 50 round white
diclofenac sodium 75 mgmisoprostol 200 ug - searle 1421 aaaa 75 round white
diclofenac sodium 50 mgmisoprostol 200 ug - searle 1411 aaaa 50 round white
Boxed Warning
Warning: Risk Of Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, Birth Defects; Serious Cardiovascular Events; And Serious Gastrointestinal Events
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• Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion. (4 ,5.1 ,8.1 ) -
• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy and is not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others. (5.1 ,8.3 ) -
• Increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. (5.2 ) -
• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. (4 ,5.2 ) -
• Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal and can occur at any time and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk. (5.3 )
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• Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. -
• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy [see Contraindications (4)] and not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. -
• If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiation of treatment and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
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• NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. -
• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
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• NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
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Warning: Risk Of Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, Birth Defects; Serious Cardiovascular Events; And Serious Gastrointestinal Events
WARNING: RISK OF UTERINE RUPTURE, ABORTION, PREMATURE BIRTH, BIRTH DEFECTS; SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS; AND SERIOUS GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
• Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion. (4 ,5.1 ,8.1 )• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy and is not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others. (5.1 ,8.3 )• Increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. (5.2 )• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. (4 ,5.2 )• Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal and can occur at any time and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk. (5.3 )
Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, and Birth Defects
• Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy [see Contraindications (4)] and not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].• If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiation of treatment and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
• NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].• ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
• NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
1 Indications And Usage
ARTHROTEC is indicated for treatment of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients at high risk of developing NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications. For a ul of factors that may increase the risk of NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
ARTHROTEC is a combination of diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and misoprostol, a prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog, indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients at high risk of developing NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications. (1 )
2 Dosage And Administration
• Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. (2.1 )• Osteoarthritis: The recommended dosage for maximal GI protection is one tablet (containing 50 mg of diclofenac and 200 mcg of misoprostol) three times daily. A dosage of diclofenac higher than 150 mg/day is not recommended. (2.2 )• Rheumatoid Arthritis: The recommended dosage for maximal GI protection is one tablet (containing 50 mg of diclofenac and 200 mcg of misoprostol) three or four times daily A dosage of diclofenac higher than 200 mg/day is not recommended. (2.3 )• For dosage modifications due to intolerance, see the full Prescribing Information. (2.2 ,2.3 )2.1Important Dosage Information
• Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of ARTHROTEC and other treatment options before deciding to use ARTHROTEC. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warnings and Precautions (5)].• After observing the response to initial therapy with ARTHROTEC, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs.• ARTHORTEC is not recommended for patients who would not receive the appropriate dosage of both active ingredients.• ARTHROTEC, a fixed combination product, is administered asARTHROTEC 50 (50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol) orARTHROTEC 75 (75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol).2.2Recommended Dosage in Patients with Osteoarthritis
The recommended dosage for the treatment of osteoarthritis for maximal GI mucosal protection is ARTHROTEC 50 three times a day. For patients who experience intolerance, ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day or ARTHROTEC 50 two times a day can be used, but these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers. A daily dosage of diclofenac sodium greater than 150 mg/day is not recommended. Daily doses of the components delivered with these regimens are as follows:
Osteoarthritis Regimen Diclofenac sodium (mg/day) Misoprostol (mcg/day)
ARTHROTEC 50
three times a day
150
600
two times a dayFor patients who experience intolerance; these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers
100
400
ARTHROTEC 75
two times a day
150
400
2.3Recommended Dosage in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
The recommended dosage for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is ARTHROTEC 50 three or four times a day. For patients who experience intolerance, ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day or ARTHROTEC 50 two times a day can be used, but are less effective in preventing ulcers. A daily dosage of diclofenac sodium greater than 200 mg/day is not recommended. Daily doses of the components delivered with these regimens are as follows:
Rheumatoid Arthritis Regimen Diclofenac sodium (mg/day) Misoprostol (mcg/day)
ARTHROTEC 50
four times a day
200
800
three times a day
150
600
two times a dayFor patients who experience intolerance; these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers
100
400
ARTHROTEC 75
two times a day
150
400
2.4Additional Dosage Recommendations
ARTHROTEC contains misoprostol, which provides protection against gastric and duodenal ulcers [see Clinical Studies (14)]. For gastric ulcer prevention, the 200Â mcg four and three times a day regimens are therapeutically equivalent, but more protective than the two times a day regimen. For duodenal ulcer prevention, the four times a day regimen is more protective than the three or two times a day regimens. However, the four times a day regimen is less well tolerated than the three times a day regimen because of usually self-limited diarrhea related to the misoprostol dose [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)], and the two times a day regimen may be better tolerated than three times a day in some patients.
Dosages may be individualized using the separate products (misoprostol and diclofenac sodium), after which the patient may be switched to the appropriate ARTHROTEC dosage. If clinically indicated, misoprostol co-therapy with ARTHROTEC to optimize the misoprostol dose and/or frequency of administration, may be appropriate. Do not exceed a total misoprostol dose of 800Â mcg/day and do not administer more than 200Â mcg of misoprostol at any one time.
When concomitant use of CYP2C9 inhibitors is necessary, the maximum total daily dose of diclofenac is 100 mg per day. Do not exceed a dosage of ARTHOTEC 50 mg twice daily [see Drug Interactions (7)].
For additional information, refer to the Prescribing Information for the individual products of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol.
3 Dosage Forms And Strengths
Delayed-release tablets:
• 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "50" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1411" on the other.• 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "75" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1421" on the other.
Delayed-release tablets:
• 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol (3 )• 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol (3 )
4 Contraindications
ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the following patients:
• Pregnancy. Use of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, during pregnancy can result in maternal and fetal harm, including uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]• In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]• Active gastrointestinal bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]• History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8, 5.9)]• Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to diclofenac sodium and misoprostol, other prostaglandins, or any components of the drug product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8, 5.10)]
• Pregnancy (4 )• In the setting of CABG surgery (4 )• Active gastrointestinal bleeding (4 )• History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (4 )• Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac sodium, misoprostol, or any components of the drug product (4 )
5 Warnings And Precautions
• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity with NSAIDs: Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac in women at about 20 weeks gestation and later in pregnancy may cause oligohydramnios/fetal renal dysfunction and premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. (4 ,5.1 ,8.1 )• Hepatotoxicity: Inform patients of warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Discontinue if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen or if clinical signs and symptoms of liver disease develop. (5.4 )• Hypertension: Patients taking some antihypertensive medications may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs. Monitor blood pressure. (5.5 ,7 )• Heart Failure and Edema: Avoid in patients with severe heart failure unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening heart failure. (5.6 )• Renal Toxicity: Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia. Avoid in patients with advanced renal disease unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening renal function. (5.7 )• Anaphylactic Reactions: Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs. (5.8 )• Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma. Monitor patients with preexisting asthma (without aspirin sensitivity). (5.9 )• Serious Skin Reactions: Discontinue at first appearance of skin rash or other signs of hypersensitivity. (5.10 )• Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS): Discontinue and evaluate clinically. (5.11 )• Hematologic Toxicity: Monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit in patients with any signs or symptoms of anemia. (5.12 ,7 )5.1Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, or Birth Defects with Misoprostol and Embryo-Fetal Toxicity with NSAIDs
Misoprostol
Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered to pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion.
ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women. ARTHROTEC is not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiation of treatment and advise the use effective contraception during treatment with ARTHROTEC [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Diclofenac
Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus
NSAIDs, including diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, increase the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus at about 30 weeks of gestation and later.
Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment
Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac, at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. These adverse outcomes are seen, on average, after days to weeks of treatment, although oligohydramnios has been infrequently reported as soon as 48 hours after NSAID initiation. Oligohydramnios is often, but not always, reversible with treatment discontinuation. Complications of prolonged oligohydramnios may, for example, include limb contractures and delayed lung maturation. In some postmarketing cases of impaired neonatal renal function, invasive procedures such as exchange transfusion or dialysis were required [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
5.2Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal. Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease. However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate. Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment. The increase in CV thrombotic risk has been observed most consistently at higher doses.
To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur.
There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID, such as diclofenac, increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Status Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery
Two large, controlled clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of CABG [see Contraindications (4)].
Post-MI Patients
Observational studies conducted in the Danish National Registry have demonstrated that patients treated with NSAIDs in the post-MI period were at increased risk of reinfarction, CV-related death, and all-cause mortality beginning in the first week of treatment. In this same cohort, the incidence of death in the first year post-MI was 20 per 100 person years in NSAID-treated patients compared to 12 per 100 person years in non-NSAID exposed patients. Although the absolute rate of death declined somewhat after the first year post-MI, the increased relative risk of death in NSAID users persisted over at least the next four years of follow-up.
Avoid the use of ARTHROTEC in patients with a recent MI unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent CV thrombotic events. If ARTHROTEC is used in patients with a recent MI, monitor patients for signs of cardiac ischemia.
5.3Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
NSAIDs, including diclofenac, cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with NSAIDs. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs occurred in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3 to 6 months, and in about 2% to 4% of patients treated for one year. However, even short-term NSAID therapy is not without risk.
Risk Factors for GI Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding who used NSAIDs had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Other factors that increase the risk of GI bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs include longer duration of NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet drugs (such as aspirin), anticoagulants, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); smoking; use of alcohol; older age; and poor general health status. Most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in elderly or debilitated patients. Additionally, patients with advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy are at increased risk for GI bleeding.
Strategies to Minimize the GI Risks in NSAID-treated patients:
• Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration.• Avoid administration of more than one NSAID at a time.• Remain alert for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding during NSAID therapy.• If a serious GI adverse event is suspected, promptly initiate evaluation and treatment, and discontinue ARTHROTEC until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out.• In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, monitor patients more closely for evidence of GI bleeding [see Drug Interactions (7)].5.4Hepatotoxicity
In clinical trials with ARTHROTEC, meaningful elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase [SGPT], more than 3 times the upper limit of the normal range [ULN]) occurred in 1.6% of 2,184 patients treated with ARTHROTEC and in 1.4% of 1,691 patients treated with diclofenac sodium. These increases were generally transient, and enzyme levels returned to within the normal range upon discontinuation of therapy with ARTHROTEC. The misoprostol component of ARTHROTEC does not appear to exacerbate the hepatic effects caused by the diclofenac sodium component.
In clinical trials of diclofenac-containing products, meaningful elevations (i.e., more than 3 times the ULN) of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase [SGOT]) occurred in about 2% of approximately 5,700 patients at some time during diclofenac treatment (ALT was not measured in all studies).
In a large, open-label, controlled trial of 3,700 patients treated with oral diclofenac sodium for 2 to 6 months, patients were monitored first at 8 weeks and 1,200 patients were monitored again at 24 weeks. Meaningful elevations of ALT and/or AST occurred in about 4% of patients and included marked elevations (i.e., greater than 8 times the ULN) in about 1% of the 3,700 patients. In that open-label study, a higher incidence of borderline (less than 3 times the ULN), moderate (3 to 8 times the ULN), and marked (greater than 8 times the ULN) elevations of ALT or AST was observed in patients receiving diclofenac when compared to other NSAIDs. Elevations in transaminases were seen more frequently in patients with osteoarthritis than in those with rheumatoid arthritis.
Almost all meaningful elevations in transaminases were detected before patients became symptomatic. Abnormal tests occurred during the first 2 months of therapy with diclofenac in 42 of the 51 patients in all trials who developed marked transaminase elevations.
In postmarketing reports, cases of drug-induced hepatotoxicity have been reported in the first month, and in some cases, the first 2 months of therapy, but can occur at any time during treatment with diclofenac. Postmarketing surveillance has reported cases of severe hepatic reactions, including liver necrosis, jaundice, fulminant hepatitis with and without jaundice, and liver failure. Some of these reported cases resulted in fatalities or liver transplantation.
In a European retrospective population-based, case-controlled study, 10 cases of diclofenac associated drug-induced liver injury with current use compared with non-use of diclofenac were associated with a statistically significant 4-fold adjusted odds ratio of liver injury. In this particular study, based on an overall number of 10 cases of liver injury associated with diclofenac, the adjusted odds ratio increased further with female gender, doses of 150 mg or more, and duration of use for more than 90 days.
Physicians should measure transaminases at baseline and periodically in patients receiving long-term therapy with diclofenac, because severe hepatotoxicity may develop without a prodrome of distinguishing symptoms. The optimum times for making the first and subsequent transaminase measurements are not known. Based on clinical trial data and postmarketing experiences, transaminases should be monitored within 4 to 8 weeks after initiating treatment with diclofenac. However, severe hepatic reactions can occur at any time during treatment with diclofenac.
If abnormal liver tests persist or worsen, if clinical signs and/or symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dark urine, etc.), ARTHROTEC should be discontinued immediately.
Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, diarrhea, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and "flu-like" symptoms). If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.), discontinue ARTHROTEC immediately, and perform a clinical evaluation of the patient.
To minimize the potential risk for an adverse liver related event in patients treated with ARTHROTEC, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. Exercise caution when prescribing ARTHROTEC with concomitant drugs that are known to be potentially hepatotoxic (e.g., antibiotics, anti-epileptics).
5.5Hypertension
NSAIDs, including diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, either of which may contribute to the increased incidence of CV events. Patients taking angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, thiazide diuretics, or loop diuretics may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Monitor blood pressure (BP) during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.
5.6Heart Failure and Edema
The Coxib and traditional NSAID Triauls' Collaboration meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials demonstrated an approximately two-fold increase in hospitalizations for heart failure in COX-2 selective-treated patients and nonselective NSAID-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients. In a Danish National Registry study of patients with heart failure, NSAID use increased the risk of MI, hospitalization for heart failure, and death.
Additionally, fluid retention and edema have been observed in some patients treated with NSAIDs. Use of diclofenac may blunt the CV effects of several therapeutic agents used to treat these medical conditions (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs]) [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Avoid the use of ARTHROTEC in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. If ARTHROTEC is used in patients with severe heart failure, monitor patients for signs of worsening heart failure.
5.7Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia
Renal Toxicity
Long-term administration of NSAIDs has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients, administration of an NSAID may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction, those taking diuretics and ACE inhibitors or ARBs, and the elderly. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy is usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.
No information is available from controlled clinical studies regarding the use of ARTHROTEC in patients with advanced renal disease. The renal effects of ARTHROTEC may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with pre-existing renal disease.
Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating ARTHROTEC. Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during use of ARTHROTEC [see Drug Interactions (7)]. Avoid the use of ARTHROTEC in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function. If ARTHROTEC is used in patients with advanced renal disease, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.
Hyperkalemia
Increases in serum potassium concentration, including hyperkalemia, with use of NSAIDs, even in some patients without renal impairment. In patients with normal renal function, these effects have been attributed to a hyporeninemic-hypoaldosteronism state.
5.8Anaphylactic Reactions
ARTHROTEC has been associated with anaphylactic reactions in patients with and without known hypersensitivity to the individual components of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol and in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs.
5.9Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity
A subpopulation of patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma which may include chronic rhinosinusitis complicated by nasal polyps; severe, potentially fatal bronchospasm; and/or intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Because cross-reactivity between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity [see Contraindications (4)]. When ARTHROTEC is used in patients with preexisting asthma (without known aspirin sensitivity), monitor patients for changes in the signs and symptoms of asthma.
5.10Serious Skin Reactions
NSAIDs, including diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, can cause serious skin adverse reactions such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal. These serious events may occur without warning. Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin reactions, and to discontinue the use of ARTHROTEC at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in patients with previous serious skin reactions to NSAIDs [see Contraindications (4)].
5.11Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)
Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) has been reported in patients taking NSAIDs such as ARTHROTEC. Some of these events have been fatal or life-threatening. DRESS typically, although not exclusively, presents with fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and/or facial swelling. Other clinical manifestations may include hepatitis, nephritis, hematological abnormalities, myocarditis, or myositis. Sometimes symptoms of DRESS may resemble an acute viral infection. Eosinophilia is often present. Because this disorder is variable in its presentation, other organ systems not noted here may be involved. It is important to note that early manifestations of hypersensitivity, such as fever or lymphadenopathy, may be present even though rash is not evident. If such signs or symptoms are present, discontinue ARTHROTEC and evaluate the patient immediately.
5.12Hematologic Toxicity
Anemia has occurred in NSAID-treated patients. This may be due to occult or gross blood loss, fluid retention, or an incompletely described effect on erythropoiesis. If a patient treated with ARTHROTEC has any signs or symptoms of anemia, monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit.
NSAIDs, including diclofenac a component ARTHROTEC, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Co-morbid conditions such as coagulation disorders or concomitant use of warfarin and other anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), and SSRIs and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase this risk. Monitor these patients for signs of bleeding [see Drug Interactions (7)].
5.13Masking of Inflammation and Fever
The pharmacological activity of diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, in reducing inflammation, and possibly fever, may diminish the utility of diagnostic signs in detecting infections.
5.14Laboratory Monitoring
Because serious GI bleeding, hepatotoxicity, and renal injury can occur without warning symptoms or signs, consider monitoring patients on long-term NSAID treatment with a complete blood count (CBC) and a chemistry profile periodically [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.7)].
6 Adverse Reactions
The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
• Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]• GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]• Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]• Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]• Heart Failure and Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]• Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]• Anaphylactic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]• Serious Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]• Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]
Most common adverse reactions (>2%) are: abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, flatulence, gastritis, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, alanine aminotransferase increased, hematocrit decreased (6.1 )
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc.at 1-800-438-1985 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.
Adverse reaction information for ARTHROTEC is derived from multinational controlled clinical trials in over 2,000 patients receiving ARTHROTEC 50 or ARTHROTEC 75, as well as from blinded, controlled trials of diclofenac sodium delayed-release tablets and misoprostol tablets.
Gastrointestinal
GI disorders had the highest reported incidence of adverse reactions for patients receiving ARTHROTEC. These events were generally minor, but led to discontinuation of therapy in 9% of patients on ARTHROTEC and 5% of patients on diclofenac sodium. For GI ulcer rates, [see Clinical Studies (14)].
GI disorder ARTHROTEC Diclofenac Sodium
Abdominal pain
21%
15%
Diarrhea
19%
11%
Dyspepsia
14%
11%
Nausea
11%
6%
Flatulence
9%
4%
ARTHROTEC can cause more abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other GI symptoms than diclofenac alone.
Diarrhea and abdominal pain developed early in the course of therapy, and were usually self-limited (resolved after 2 to 7 days). Rare instances of profound diarrhea leading to severe dehydration have been reported in patients receiving misoprostol. Patients with an underlying condition such as inflammatory bowel disease, or those in whom dehydration, were it to occur, would be dangerous, should be monitored carefully if ARTHROTEC is prescribed. The incidence of diarrhea can be minimized by administering ARTHROTEC with food and by avoiding coadministration with magnesium-containing antacids.
Gynecological
Gynecological disorders previously reported with misoprostol use have also been reported for women receiving ARTHROTEC (see below). Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding may be related to administration of ARTHROTEC. If it occurs, diagnostic workup should be undertaken to rule out gynecological pathology [see Boxed Warnings, Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5)].
Other adverse experiences reported occasionally with ARTHROTEC, diclofenac or other NSAIDs, or misoprostol are:
Body as a whole: asthenia, fatigue, malaise.
Central and peripheral nervous system: dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, paresthesia, vertigo.
Digestive: anorexia, appetite changes, constipation, dry mouth, dysphagia, esophageal ulceration, esophagitis, eructation, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, GI neoplasm benign, peptic ulcer, tenesmus, vomiting.
Female reproductive disorders: breast pain, dysmenorrhea, menstrual disorder, menorrhagia, vaginal hemorrhage.
Hemic and lymphatic system: epistaxis, leukopenia, melena, purpura, decreased hematocrit.
Metabolic and nutritional: alanine aminotransferase increased, alkaline phosphatase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, dehydration, hyponatremia.
Musculoskeletal system: arthralgia, myalgia.
Psychiatric: anxiety, concentration impaired, depression, irritability.
Respiratory system: asthma, coughing, hyperventilation.
Skin and appendages: alopecia, eczema, pemphigoid reaction, photosensitivity, sweating increased, pruritus.
Special senses: taste perversion, tinnitus.
Renal and urinary disorders: dysuria, nocturia, polyuria, proteinuria, urinary tract infection.
Vision: diplopia.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval of ARTHROTEC, diclofenac or misoprostol. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliable estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Body as a whole: death, fever, infection, sepsis, chills, edema.
Cardiovascular system: arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, hypertension, hypotension, increased creatine phosphokinase (CPK), increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), myocardial infarction, palpitations, phlebitis, premature ventricular contractions, syncope, tachycardia, vasculitis.
Central and peripheral nervous system: coma, convulsions, hyperesthesia, hypertonia, hypoesthesia, meningitis, migraine, neuralgia, somnolence, stroke, tremor.
Congenital, familial and genetic disorders: birth defects.
Digestive: enteritis, GI bleeding, glossitis, heartburn, hematemesis, hemorrhoids, intestinal perforation, stomatitis and ulcerative stomatitis.
Female reproductive disorders: intermenstrual bleeding, leukorrhea, vaginitis, uterine cramping, uterine hemorrhage.
Hemic and lymphatic system: agranulocytosis, anemia, aplastic anemia, coagulation time increased, ecchymosis, eosinophilia, hemolytic anemia, leukocytosis, lymphadenopathy, pancytopenia, pulmonary embolism, rectal bleeding, thrombocythemia, thrombocytopenia.
Hypersensitivity: angioedema, laryngeal/pharyngeal edema, urticaria.
Liver and biliary system: abnormal hepatic function, bilirubinemia, liver failure, pancreatitis, hepatitis, jaundice.
Male reproductive disorders: impotence, perineal pain.
Metabolic and nutritional: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increased, glycosuria, gout, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia, hypoglycemia, periorbital edema, porphyria, weight changes, fluid retention.
Pregnancy, puerperium and perinatal conditions: abnormal uterine contractions, uterine rupture/perforation, retained placenta, amniotic fluid embolism, incomplete abortion, premature birth, fetal death.
Psychiatric: confusion, disorientation, dream abnormalities, hallucinations, nervousness, paranoia, psychotic reaction.
Reproductive system and breast disorders: female fertility decreased.
Respiratory system: dyspnea, pneumonia, respiratory depression.
Skin and appendages: acne, bruising, erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, pruritus ani, rash, skin ulceration, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, cutaneous reactions (bullous eruption).
Special senses: hearing impairment, taste loss.
Renal and urinary disorders: cystitis, hematuria, interstitial nephritis, micturition frequency, nephrotic syndrome, oliguria, papillary necrosis, renal failure, glomerulonephritis membranous, glomerulonephritis minimal lesion, glomerulonephritis.
Vision: amblyopia, blurred vision, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, iritis, lacrimation abnormal, night blindness, vision abnormal.
7 Drug Interactions
See Table 1 for clinically significant drug interactions with diclofenac and misoprostol.
Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Diclofenac and Misoprostol
Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis
Clinical Impact:
• Diclofenac and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of diclofenac and anticoagulants have an increased risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone.• Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone.
Intervention:
Monitor patients with concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), SSRIs, and SNRIs for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Aspirin
Clinical Impact:
Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Intervention:
Concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].ARTHROTEC is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers
Clinical Impact:
• NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers (including propranolol).• In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible.
Intervention:
• The concomitant administration of these drugs should be done with caution. Patients should be adequately hydrated and the clinical need to monitor the renal function should be assessed at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter.• During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained.• During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and ACE inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Diuretics
Clinical Impact:
Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Digoxin
Clinical Impact:
The concomitant use of diclofenac with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin.
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels.
Lithium
Clinical Impact:
NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance. The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15%, and the renal clearance decreased by approximately 20%. This effect has been attributed to NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and lithium, monitor patients for signs of lithium toxicity.
Methotrexate
Clinical Impact:
Concomitant use of NSAIDs and methotrexate may increase the risk for methotrexate toxicity (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, renal dysfunction).
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and methotrexate, monitor patients for methotrexate toxicity.
Cyclosporine
Clinical Impact:
Concomitant use of diclofenac and cyclosporine may increase cyclosporine's nephrotoxicity.
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and cyclosporine, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.
NSAIDs and Salicylates
Clinical Impact:
Concomitant use of diclofenac with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) increases the risk of GI toxicity, with little or no increase in efficacy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Intervention:
The concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with other NSAIDs or salicylates is not recommended.
Pemetrexed
Clinical Impact:
Concomitant use of diclofenac and pemetrexed may increase the risk of pemetrexed-associated myelosuppression, renal, and GI toxicity (see the pemetrexed prescribing information).
Intervention:
During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and pemetrexed, in patients with renal impairment whose creatinine clearance ranges from 45 to 79 mL/min, monitor for myelosuppression, renal and GI toxicity.Avoid ARTHROTEC for a period of two days before, the day of, and two days following administration of pemetrexed.
Antacids
Clinical Impact:
Antacids reduce the bioavailability of misoprostol acid. Antacids may also delay absorption of diclofenac. Magnesium-containing antacids exacerbate misoprostol-associated diarrhea.
Intervention:
Concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and magnesium-containing antacids is not recommended.
Corticosteroids
Clinical Impact:
Concomitant use of corticosteroids with diclofenac may increase the risk of GI ulceration or bleeding.
Intervention
Monitor patients with concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with corticosteroids for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
CYP2C9 Inhibitors or Inducers
Clinical Impact:
Diclofenac is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, predominantly by CYP2C9. Co-administration of diclofenac with CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., voriconzaole) may enhance the exposure and toxicity of diclofenac [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] whereas co-administration with CYP2C9 inducers (e.g., rifampin) may lead to compromised efficacy of diclofenac.
Intervention:
CYP2C9 inhibitors: When concomitant use of CYP2C9 inhibitors is necessary, the total daily dose of diclofenac should not exceed the lowest recommended dose of ARTHROTEC 50 twice daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].CYP2C9 inducers: A dosage adjustment may be warranted when ARTHROTEC is administered with CYP2C9 inducers. Administer the separate products of misoprostol and diclofenac if a higher dose of diclofenac is deemed necessary.
See full prescribing information for a ul of clinically important drug interactions. (7 )
8 Use In Specific Populations
• Reversible Infertility: Consider withdrawal in women who have difficulties conceiving. (8.3 )• Geriatric Patients: Avoid use in patients with cardiovascular and/or renal risk factors. (8.5 )• Renal Impairment: Avoid use in patients with advanced renal disease. (8.6 )8.1 Pregnancy
Risk Summary
ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women [see Contraindications (4)]. If a woman becomes pregnant while taking ARTHROTEC, discontinue the drug and advise the woman of the potential risks to her and to a fetus.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of ARTHROTEC in pregnant women; however, there is information available about the active drug components of ARTHROTEC, diclofenac sodium and misoprostol. Administration of misoprostol to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Congenital anomalies sometimes associated with fetal death have been reported subsequent to the unsuccessful use of misoprostol as an abortifacient, but the drug's teratogenic mechanism has not been demonstrated. Use of NSAIDS, including diclofenac a component of ARTHROTEC, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment (see Data ). There are clinical considerations when misoprostol and diclofenac are used in pregnant women (see Clinical Considerations). In reproduction studies with pregnant rabbits, there were no skeletal or visceral malformations when the combination of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol was administered during organogenesis at doses less than the maximum recommended human doses (MRHD); however, embryotoxicity was observed at this exposure (see Data). Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as diclofenac, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss.
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. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Maternal Adverse Reactions
Misoprostol may produce uterine contractions, uterine bleeding, and expulsion of the products of conception. Misoprostol has been used to ripen the cervix, to induce labor, and to treat postpartum hemorrhage, outside of its approved indication. A major adverse effect of these uses is hyperstimulation of the uterus. Uterine rupture, amniotic fluid embolism, severe bleeding, shock, and maternal death have been reported when misoprostol was administered to pregnant women to induce labor to induce abortion beyond the eighth week of pregnancy. Higher doses of misoprostol, including the 100 mcg tablet, may increase the risk of complications from uterine hyperstimulation. ARTHROTEC, which contains 200 mcg of misoprostol, is likely to have a greater risk of uterine hyperstimulation than the 100 mcg tablet of misoprostol. Abortions caused by misoprostol may be incomplete.
Cases of amniotic fluid embolism, which resulted in maternal and fetal death, have been reported with use of misoprostol during pregnancy. Severe vaginal bleeding, retained placenta, shock, and pelvic pain have also been reported. These women were administered misoprostol vaginally and/or orally over a range of doses.
ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women [see Contraindications (4)].
If a woman is or becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the drug should be discontinued and the patient apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Labor or Delivery
There are no studies on the effects of ARTHROTEC or diclofenac during labor or delivery. In animal studies, NSAIDS, including diclofenac, inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, cause delayed parturition, and increase the incidence of stillbirth. In humans, some case reports and studies have associated misoprostol with risk of stillbirth, uterine hyperstimulation, perineal tear, amniotic fluid embolism, severe bleeding, shock, uterine rupture and death. The risk of uterine rupture associated with misoprostol use in pregnancy may occur at any gestational age, and increases with advancing gestational age and with prior uterine surgery, including cesarean delivery. Grand multiparity also appears to be a risk factor for uterine rupture.
Data
Human Data
Animal Data
The reproductive and developmental effects of both the combination of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol and each component of ARTHROTEC alone have been studied in animals. In all studies there was no evidence of teratogenicity. In an oral teratology study in pregnant rabbits, ARTHROTEC was administered at dose combinations (diclofenac and misoprostol, 250:1 ratio) up to 10 mg/kg/day diclofenac sodium (120 mg/m2/day, 0.8 times the MRHD based on body surface area) and 0.04 mg/kg/day misoprostol (0.48 mg/m2/day, 0.8 times the MRHD based on body surface area) and there was no evidence of teratogenicity. At the high dose, there was evidence of embryotoxicity (resorption and decreased fetal body weight) and maternal toxicity (decreased food intake and weight gain).
In oral teratology studies with misoprostol in pregnant rats at doses up to 1.6 mg/kg/day (9.6 mg/m2/day, 16 times the MRHD based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at doses up to 1.0 mg/kg/day (12 mg/m2/day, 20 times the MRHD based on body surface area), there was no evidence of teratogenicity.
In oral teratology studies with diclofenac sodium in pregnant mice at doses up to 20 mg/kg/day (60 mg/m2/day, 0.4 times the MRHD based on body surface area), pregnant rats at doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (60 mg/m2/day, 0.4 times the MRHD based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (120 mg/m2/day, 0.8 times the MRHD based on body surface area), there was no evidence of teratogenicity.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
No lactation studies have been conducted with ARTHROTEC; however, limited published literature reports that diclofenac and the active metabolite of misoprostol are present in breast milk [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for ARTHROTEC and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from the ARTHROTEC or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential
ARTHROTEC is not recommended in women of childbearing potential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others.
Pregnancy Testing
Verify pregnancy status for females of reproductive potential within 2 weeks prior to initiating ARTHROTEC.
Contraception
Females
ARTHROTEC can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Contraindications (4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ARTHROTEC.
ARTHROTEC may be prescribed if the patient:
• has had a negative serum pregnancy test within 2 weeks prior to beginning therapy.• is capable of complying with effective contraceptive measures.• has received both oral and written warnings of the hazards of misoprostol, the risk of possible contraception failure, and the danger to other women of childbearing potential should the drug be taken by mistake.• will begin ARTHROTEC only on the second or third day of the next normal menstrual period.
Advise females to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy.
Infertility
Females
Based on the mechanism of action, the use of prostaglandin-mediated NSAIDs, including diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, may delay or prevent rupture of ovarian follicles, which has been associated with reversible infertility in some women [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. Published animal studies have shown that administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors has the potential to disrupt prostaglandin-mediated follicular rupture required for ovulation. Small studies in women treated with NSAIDs have also shown a reversible delay in ovulation. Consider withdrawal of NSAIDs, including ARTHROTEC, in women who have difficulties conceiving or who are undergoing investigation of infertility.
8.4 Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness of ARTHROTEC in pediatric patients have not been established.
8.5 Geriatric Use
Geriatric patients (those 65 years of age and older), compared to younger adult patients, are at greater risk for NSAID-associated serious cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and/or renal adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3, 5.7)]. In addition, the risk of diclofenac-associated adverse reactions may be greater in geriatric patients with renal impairment or those taking concomitant ACE inhibitors or ARBs [see Drug Interactions (7) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Avoid use of ARTHROTEC in geriatric patients with cardiovascular and/or renal risk factors. If use cannot be avoided, use the lowest recommended dosage for the shortest duration and monitor for cardiac and renal adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Monitor renal function in geriatric patients during treatment with ARTHROTEC, especially in patients with concomitant use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs.
Of the 2,184 patients in clinical studies with ARTHROTEC, 557 (25.5%) were 65 years of age and over. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger adult patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in effectiveness between geriatric patients and younger adult patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
No clinically meaningful differences in the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac and misoprostol were observed in geriatric patients compared to younger adult patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
8.6 Renal Impairment
Diclofenac and misoprostol are primarily excreted by the kidney. Long-term administration of NSAIDs has resulted in renal toxicity. Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating ARTHROTEC. Monitor renal function, especially during concomitant use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs. Also, monitor renal function in patients with hepatic impairment. Avoid the use of ARTHROTEC in patients with advanced renal disease. If use cannot be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease, use the lowest dosage for the shortest duration, monitor the patient's renal function and monitor for clinical signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
10 Overdosage
Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an acute NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. It is advisable to contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) to determine the latest recommendations because strategies for the management of overdose are continually evolving.
The toxic dose of ARTHROTEC has not been determined. However, signs of overdosage from the components of the product have been described.
Diclofenac
Symptoms following acute NSAID overdosages have been typically limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which have been generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding has occurred. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma have occurred, but were rare [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3, 5.5, 5.7)].
Clinical signs that may suggest diclofenac sodium overdose include GI complaints, confusion, drowsiness, or general hypotonia.
If gastric decontamination may be potentially beneficial to the patient, e.g., short time since ingestion or a large overdosage (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage), consider emesis and/or activated charcoal (60 grams to 100 grams in adults, 1 gram to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or an osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients. Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding.
Misoprostol
The toxic dose of misoprostol in humans has not been determined. Cumulative total daily doses of 1600 mcg have been tolerated, with only symptoms of GI discomfort being reported. Clinical signs that may indicate an overdose are sedation, tremor, convulsions, dyspnea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, palpitations, hypotension, or bradycardia.
ARTHROTEC
Symptoms of acute overdosage with ARTHROTEC should be treated with supportive and symptomatic therapy. There are no specific antidotes. In case of acute overdosage, emesisis and/or gastric lavage may be considered dependent upon amount ingested and time since ingestion. The use of oral activated charcoal may help to reduce the absorption of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol. Induced diuresis may be beneficial because diclofenac sodium and misoprostol metabolites are excreted in the urine. The effect of dialysis or hemoperfusion on the elimination of diclofenac sodium (99%Â protein bound) and misoprostol acid remains unproven.
11 Description
ARTHROTEC is a combination product containing diclofenac sodium, an NSAID with analgesic properties, and misoprostol, a gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal protective prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog. ARTHROTEC tablets are white to off-white, round, biconvex, and approximately 11 mm in diameter. Each tablet consists of an enteric-coated core containing 50 mg (ARTHROTEC 50) or 75 mg (ARTHROTEC 75) of diclofenac sodium (equivalent to 46.39 mg or 69.58 mg of diclofenac, respectively) surrounded by an outer mantle containing 200 mcg misoprostol.
Diclofenac sodium is a phenylacetic acid derivative that is a white to off-white, virtually odorless, crystalline powder. Diclofenac sodium is freely soluble in methanol, soluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in chloroform and in dilute acid. Diclofenac sodium is sparingly soluble in water. Its chemical formula and name are:
C14H10Cl2NO2Na [M.W. = 318.14] 2-[(2,6-dichlorophenyl) amino] benzeneacetic acid, monosodium salt.
Misoprostol is a water-soluble, viscous liquid that contains approximately equal amounts of two diastereomers. Its chemical formula and name are:
C22H38O5 [M.W. = 382.54] (±) methyl 11α,16-dihydroxy-16-methyl-9-oxoprost-13E-en-1-oate.
Inactive ingredients in ARTHROTEC include: colloidal silicon dioxide; crospovidone; hydrogenated castor oil; hypromellose; lactose; magnesium stearate; methacrylic acid copolymer; microcrystalline cellulose; povidone (polyvidone) K-30; sodium hydroxide; starch (corn); talc; triethyl citrate.
12 Clinical Pharmacology
12.1 Mechanism of Action
ARTHROTEC is a combination product containing diclofenac sodium, an NSAID with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, and misoprostol, a GI mucosal protective prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog.
Diclofenac
The mechanism of action of diclofenac, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2).
Diclofenac is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in vitro. Diclofenac concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because diclofenac is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.
Misoprostol
Misoprostol is a synthetic PGE1 analog with gastric antisecretory and mucosal protective properties. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. A deficiency of prostaglandins within the gastric and duodenal mucosa may lead to diminishing bicarbonate and mucus secretion and may contribute to the mucosal damage caused by NSAIDs.
Misoprostol can increase bicarbonate and mucus production, but it has been shown at doses 200 mcg and above that are also antisecretory. It is therefore not possible to differentiate whether the ability of misoprostol to reduce the risk of gastric and duodenal ulcers is the result of its antisecretory effect, its mucosal protective effect, or both.
In vitro studies on canine parietal cells using titrated misoprostol acid as the ligand have led to the identification and characterization of specific prostaglandin receptors. Receptor binding is saturable, reversible, and stereo-specific. The sites have a high affinity for misoprostol, for its acid metabolite, and for other E type prostaglandins, but not for F or I prostaglandins and other unrelated compounds, such as histamine or cimetidine. Receptor-site affinity for misoprostol correlates well with an indirect index of antisecretory activity. It is likely that these specific receptors allow misoprostol taken with food to be effective topically, despite the lower serum concentrations attained.
Misoprostol, over the range of 50 mcg to 200 mcg, inhibits basal and nocturnal gastric acid secretion, and acid secretion in response to a variety of stimuli, including meals, histamine, pentagastrin, and coffee. Activity is apparent 30 minutes after oral administration and persists for at least 3 hours. In general, the effects of 50 mcg were modest and shorter-lived, and only the 200 mcg dose had substantial effects on nocturnal secretion or on histamine- and meal-stimulated secretion.
Misoprostol also produces a moderate decrease in pepsin concentration during basal conditions, but not during histamine stimulation. It has no significant effect on fasting or postprandial gastrin nor intrinsic factor output.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
General Pharmacokinetic Characteristics
The pharmacokinetic profiles of diclofenac and misoprostol administered as the fixed combination (ARTHROTEC 50 or 75) are similar to the profiles when the two drugs are administered as separate tablets (see Table 2). No pharmacokinetic interaction between the two drugs has been observed following multiple dosing. The diclofenac total exposure [area under the curve (AUC)] is dose-proportional within the range of 25 mg to 150 mg. Approximately dose-proportional increase in misoprostol exposure was also observed within the range of 200 mcg to 400 mcg. Neither diclofenac nor misoprostol accumulated in plasma following repeated doses of ARTHROTEC given every 12 hours under fasted conditions.
Table 2: Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Diclofenac and Misoprostol Acid Following Single Oral Doses of ARTHROTEC or Separate Products in Healthy Subjects SD: Standard deviation of the mean; AUC: Area under the curve; Cmax: Peak concentration; Tmax: Time to peak concentration
MISOPROSTOL ACID Mean (SD)
Treatment (n=36)
Cmax (pg/mL)
Tmax (hr)
AUC(0–4h) (pg∙hr/mL)
ARTHROTEC 50
441 (137)
0.30 (0.13)
266 (95)
Misoprostol
478 (201)
0.30 (0.10)
295 (143)
ARTHROTEC 75
304 (110)
0.26 (0.09)
177 (49)
Misoprostol
290 (130)
0.35 (0.12)
176 (58)
DICLOFENAC Mean (SD)
Treatment (n=36)
Cmax (ng/mL)
Tmax (hr)
AUC(0–12h) (ng∙hr/mL)
ARTHROTEC 50
1207 (364)
2.4 (1.0)
1380 (272)
Diclofenac Sodium
1298 (441)
2.4 (1.0)
1357 (290)
ARTHROTEC 75
2025 (2005)
2.0 (1.4)
2773 (1347)
Diclofenac Sodium
2367 (1318)
1.9 (0.7)
2609 (1185)
Absorption
Diclofenac: Diclofenac is completely absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration under fasted condition, and peak plasma levels are achieved in 2 hours (range 1–4 hours), and the area under the plasma concentration curve (AUC) is dose-proportional within the range of 25 mg to 150 mg. Peak plasma levels are less than dose-proportional and are approximately 1.5 and 2.0 mcg/mL for 50 mg and 75 mg doses, respectively. The diclofenac in ARTHROTEC is in a pharmaceutical formulation that resists dissolution in the low pH of gastric fluid but allows a rapid release of drug in the higher pH environment of the duodenum. Only 50% of the absorbed dose is systemically available due to first pass metabolism (i.e., oral bioavailability is 50%).
Misoprostol: Misoprostol is rapidly absorbed following oral administration of ARTHROTEC, and misoprostol acid (active metabolite) reaches a maximum plasma concentration in approximately 20 minutes. Maximum plasma concentrations of misoprostol acid are diminished when the dose is taken with food, and total availability of misoprostol acid is reduced by use of concomitant antacid. Clinical trials were conducted with concomitant antacid; this effect does not appear to be clinically important.
Food decreases the multiple-dose bioavailability profile of ARTHROTEC 50 and ARTHROTEC 75.
Distribution
Diclofenac: The volume of distribution of diclofenac is approximately 0.55 L/kg. More than 99% of diclofenac is bound to plasma albumin.
Misoprostol: The plasma protein binding of misoprostol acid is less than 90% and is concentration-independent in the therapeutic range.
After a single oral dose of misoprostol to nursing mothers, misoprostol acid was excreted in breast milk. The maximum concentration of misoprostol acid in expressed breast milk was achieved within 1 hour after dosing and was 7.6 pg/mL (CV 37%) and 20.9 pg/mL (CV 77%) after single 200 mcg and 600 mcg misoprostol administration, respectively. The misoprostol acid concentrations in breast milk declined to <1 pg/mL at 5 hours post-dose. These data may not reflect drug level in mature milk and in a daily dosing regimen for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Elimination
Metabolism
Excretion
Specific Populations
Geriatric Patients
No differences in the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac were observed in geriatric subjects (66 to 81 years; N=10) compared to younger adult subjects (26 to 46 years; N=10) following administration of diclofenac 50 mg twice daily for 4 weeks.
Though the mean AUC value of misoprostol acid for elderly subjects was 41% higher in geriatric healthy subjects (mean age, 69.5±4.6 years, N=24) compared to younger adult healthy subjects (mean age, 25.4±4.2 years, N=24) following single dose of misoprostol 400 µg, the increase in exposure is not clinically meaningful.
In a multiple-dose crossover study of ARTHROTEC administered twice daily to 24 subjects aged 65 years of age and older, misoprostol did not affect the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].
Racial or Ethnic Groups
Pharmacokinetic differences due to race have not been identified.
Patients with Renal Impairment
In patients with renal impairment (N=5, creatinine clearance 3 to 42 mL/min) following intravenous administration of 50 mg diclofenac, AUC values and elimination rates were comparable to those in healthy subjects.
Pharmacokinetic studies with misoprostol in patients with severe renal impairment requiring hemodialysis (n=8, mean creatinine clearance 6.2±3.3 mL/min/1.73m2) who received a single dose of 400 mcg misoprostol during a interdialytic period showed an approximate doubling of elimination half-life, Cmax, and AUC of misoprostol acid compared to healthy subjects [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Patients with Hepatic Impairment
In patients with biopsy-confirmed cirrhosis or chronic active hepatitis (variably elevated transaminases and mildly elevated bilirubin, N=10), diclofenac concentrations and urinary elimination values following administration of 100 mg oral solution were comparable to those in healthy subjects.
In a study of subjects with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, mean misoprostol acid AUC and Cmax showed approximately twice high as the mean values obtained in healthy subjects. Three subjects who had the lowest antipyrine and lowest indocyanine green clearance values had the highest misoprostol acid AUC and Cmax values.
Drug Interaction Studies
Diclofenac
Misoprostol
13 Nonclinical Toxicology
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Carcinogenesis
Long-term animal studies to evaluate the potential for carcinogenesis and animal studies to evaluate the effects on fertility have been performed with each component of ARTHROTEC given alone.
In a 24 month rat carcinogenicity study, misoprostol administered orally at doses up to 2.4 mg/kg/day (14.4 mg/m2/day, 24 times the MRHD of 0.6 mg/m2/day) was not tumorigenic. In a 21-month mouse carcinogenicity study, misoprostol administered orally at doses up to 16 mg/kg/day (48 mg/m2/day), 80 times the MRHD based on body surface area, was not tumorigenic.
In a 24-month rat carcinogenicity study, diclofenac sodium administered orally at up to 2 mg/kg/day (12 mg/m2/day) was not tumorigenic. In a 24-month mouse carcinogenicity study, oral diclofenac sodium at doses up to 0.3 mg/kg/day (0.9 mg/m2/day, 0.006 times the MRHD based on body surface area) in males and 1 mg/kg/day (3 mg/m2/day, 0.02 times the MRHD based on body surface area) in females was not tumorigenic.
Mutagenesis
Diclofenac sodium and misoprostol combination in 250:1 ratio was not genotoxic in the Ames test, the Chinese hamster ovary cell (CHO/HGPRT) forward mutation test, the rat lymphocyte chromosome aberration test, or the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test.
Impairment of Fertility
The effects of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol on male or female fertility have not been studied in animals; however, there are data with diclofenac sodium and misoprostol given alone. Misoprostol, when administered to male and female breeding rats in an oral dose range of 0.1 to 10 mg/kg/day (0.6 to 60 mg/m2/day, 1 to 100 times the MRHD based on body surface area) produced dose-related pre- and post-implantation losses and a significant decrease in the number of live pups born at the highest dose (60 mg/m2/day, 100 times the MRHD based on body surface area). Diclofenac sodium at oral doses up to 4 mg/kg/day (24 mg/m2/day, 0.16 times the MRHD based on body surface area) was found to have no effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.
13.2 Animal Toxicology
A reversible increase in the number of normal surface gastric epithelial cells occurred in the dog, rat, and mouse during long-term toxicology studies with misoprostol. No such increase has been observed in humans administered misoprostol for up to 1 year. An apparent response of the female mouse to misoprostol in long-term studies at 100 to 1000 times the human dose was hyperostosis, mainly of the medulla of sternebrae. Hyperostosis did not occur in long-term studies in the dog and rat and has not been seen in humans treated with misoprostol.
14clinical Studies
Osteoarthritis
Diclofenac sodium, as a single ingredient or in combination with misoprostol, has been shown to be effective in the management of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Diclofenac sodium, as a single ingredient or in combination with misoprostol, has been shown to be effective in the management of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Upper Gastrointestinal Safety
Diclofenac, and other NSAIDs, have caused serious gastrointestinal toxicity, such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach, small intestine or large intestine. Misoprostol has been shown to reduce the incidence of endoscopically diagnosed NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers. In a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, dose-response study, misoprostol 200 mcg administered four, three or two times a day, was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing the incidence of gastric ulcer in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients using a variety of NSAIDs. The three times a day regimen was therapeutically equivalent to misoprostol 200 mcg four times a day with respect to the prevention of gastric ulcers. Misoprostol 200 mcg given two times a day was less effective than 200 mcg given three or four times a day. The incidence of NSAID-induced duodenal ulcer was also significantly reduced with all three regimens of misoprostol compared to placebo (see Table 3).
Table 3 Misoprostol 200 mcg Dosage Regimen Placebo two times a day three times a day four times a day N=1623; 12 weeks
Gastric ulcer
11%
6%Misoprostol significantly different from placebo (p<0.05)
3%
3%
Duodenal ulcer
6%
2%
3%
1%
Results of a study in 572 patients with osteoarthritis demonstrate that patients receiving ARTHROTEC have a lower incidence of endoscopically defined gastric ulcers compared to patients receiving diclofenac sodium (see Table 4).
Table 4 Osteoarthritis patients with history of ulcer or erosive disease (N=572), 6 weeks Incidence of ulcers Gastric Duodenal
ARTHROTEC 50 three times a day
3%Statistically significantly different from diclofenac (p<0.05)
6%
ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day
4%
3%
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg two times a day
11%
7%
Placebo
3%
1%
16 How Supplied/storage And Handling
ARTHROTEC (diclofenac sodium and misoprostol delayed-release tablets) are supplied as:
• 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "50" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1411" on the other.• 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "75" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1421" on the other.
The dosage strengths are supplied in:
Strength NDC Number Size
ARTHROTEC 50
50 mg diclofenac sodiumand200 mcg misoprostol
0025-1411-60
bottle of 60
0025-1411-90
bottle of 90
ARTHROTEC 75
75 mg diclofenac sodiumand200 mcg misoprostol
0025-1421-60
bottle of 60
STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
17 Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Inform patients, families, or their caregivers of the following information before initiating therapy with ARTHROTEC and periodically during the course of ongoing therapy.
Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, or Birth Defects with Misoprostol and Embryo-Fetal Toxicity with NSAIDs
• Advise females that ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women. Use of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC during pregnancy can result in maternal and fetal harm, including uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Use of diclofenac may cause oligohydramnios/fetal renal dysfunction and premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.• Advise patients not to give ARTHROTEC to others.• Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception during treatment with ARTHROTEC. Advise females to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].
Infertility
Advise females of reproductive potential that ARTHROTEC may delay or prevent rupture of ovarian follicles, which has been associated with reversible infertility in some women [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events, including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech, and to report any of these symptoms to their health care provider immediately [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
Advise patients to report symptoms of ulcerations and bleeding, including epigastric pain, dyspepsia, melena, and hematemesis to their health care provider. In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, inform patients of the increased risk for and the signs and symptoms of GI bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Hepatotoxicity
Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, pruritus, diarrhea, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and "flu-like" symptoms). If these occur, instruct patients to stop ARTHROTEC and seek immediate medical therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Heart Failure and Edema
Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of congestive heart failure including shortness of breath, unexplained weight gain, or edema and to contact their healthcare provider if such symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Anaphylactic Reactions
Inform patients of the signs of an anaphylactic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat). Instruct patients to seek immediate emergency help if these occur [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Serious Skin Reactions, including DRESS
Advise patients to stop taking ARTHROTEC immediately if they develop any type of rash or fever and contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10, 5.11)].
Avoid Concomitant Use of NSAIDs
Inform patients that the concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) is not recommended due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity, and little or no increase in efficacy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Drug Interactions (7)]. Alert patients that NSAIDs may be present in "over the counter" medications for treatment of colds, fever, or insomnia.
Use of NSAIDS and Low-Dose Aspirin
Inform patients not to use low-dose aspirin concomitantly with ARTHROTEC until they talk to their healthcare provider [see Drug Interactions (7)].
This product's labeling may have been updated. For the most recent prescribing information, please visit www.pfizer.com.
For medical information about Arthrotec, please visit www.pfizermedinfo.com or call 1‑800‑438-1985
LAB-0061-31.0
Spl Medguide Section
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Revised: August 2022
MEDICATION GUIDE Medication Guide for ARTHROTEC (ARTH' roe-tek) (diclofenac sodium and misoprostol delayed- release tablets) for oral use
What is the most important information I should know about ARTHROTEC? ARTHROTEC contains diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)) and misoprostol, and can cause uterus to tear (uterine rupture), abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. The risk of uterine rupture increases as your pregnancy advances, if you have given birth to 5 or more children, and if you have had surgery on the uterus, such as a cesarean delivery. Do not take ARTHROTEC if you are pregnant.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with ARTHROTEC. If you are able to become pregnant, your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with ARTHROTEC. Females who are able to become pregnant should use an effective form of birth control (contraception) during treatment with ARTHROTEC.
What is the most important information I should know about medicines containing Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)? NSAIDs can cause serious side effects, including:
• Increased risk of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to death. This risk may happen early in treatment and may increase:
o with increasing doses of NSAIDso with longer use of NSAIDs
Do not take NSAID containing medicines right before or after a heart surgery called a "coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)." Avoid taking NSAID containing medicines after a recent heart attack, unless your healthcare provider tells you to. You may have an increased risk of another heart attack if you take NSAIDs after a recent heart attack.
• Increased risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears (perforation) of the esophagus (tube leading from the mouth to the stomach), stomach and intestines:
o anytime during useo without warning symptomso that may cause death
The risk of getting an ulcer or bleeding increases with:
o past history of stomach ulcers, or stomach or intestinal bleeding with use of NSAIDso taking medicines called "corticosteroids", "antiplatelet drugs", "anticoagulants", "SSRIs", or "SNRIs"
o increasing doses of NSAIDso longer use of NSAIDso smokingo drinking alcohol
o older ageo poor healtho advanced liver diseaseo bleeding problems
NSAID containing medicines should only be used:
o exactly as prescribedo at the lowest dose possible for your treatmento for the shortest time needed
What is ARTHROTEC? ARTHROTEC contains 2 medicines:
1. Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). See "What is the most important information I should know about medicines called Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?2. Misoprostol is a medicine used to protect the lining of the esophagus, stomach and intestines while taking diclofenac.
ARTHROTEC is a prescription medicine used to treat:
• symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adults at high risk of developing stomach (gastric) and intestinal (duodenal) ulcers while taking NSAIDs.
It is not known if ARTHROTEC is safe and effective for use in children. What are NSAIDs? NSAIDs are used to treat pain and redness, swelling, and heat (inflammation) from medical conditions such as different types of arthritis.
Who should not take ARTHROTEC? Do not take ARTHROTEC:
• if you are pregnant.• right before or after heart bypass surgery.• if you currently have bleeding in your stomach (gastrointestinal bleeding).• if you have had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction with aspirin or any other NSAIDs.• if you are allergic to diclofenac sodium and misoprostol, other prostaglandins or any other ingredients in ARTHROTEC. See the end of this Medication Guide for a ul of ingredients in ARTHROTEC.
Before taking ARTHROTEC, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
• have liver or kidney problems.• have high blood pressure.• have heart problems, including a history of heart failure or heart attack.• have asthma.• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. See "Who should not take ARTHROTEC?"• are breastfeeding or plan to breast feed.
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. NSAIDs and some other medicines can interact with each other and cause serious side effects. Do not start taking any new medicine without talking to your healthcare provider first.
What are the possible side effects of NSAIDs? NSAIDs can cause serious side effects, including: See "What is the most important information I should know about medicines called Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?
• new or worse high blood pressure• heart failure• liver problems including liver failure• kidney problems including kidney failure• low red blood cells (anemia)• life-threatening skin reactions• life-threatening allergic reactions• asthma attacks in people who have asthma• Other side effects of NSAIDs include: stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness
Get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms:
• shortness of breath or trouble breathing• chest pain• weakness in one part or side of your body
• slurred speech• swelling of the face or throat
Stop taking your NSAID and call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms:
• nausea• more tired or weaker than usual• diarrhea• itching• your skin or eyes look yellow• indigestion or stomach pain• flu-like symptoms
• vomit blood• there is blood in your bowel movement or it is black and sticky like tar• unusual weight gain• skin rash or bulers with fever• swelling of the arms, legs, hands and feet
If you take too much of your NSAID, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away. These are not all the possible side effects of NSAIDs. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about NSAIDs. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Other information about NSAIDs
• Aspirin is an NSAID but it does not increase the chance of a heart attack. Aspirin can cause bleeding in the brain, stomach, and intestines. Aspirin can also cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines.• Some NSAIDs are sold in lower doses without a prescription (over-the-counter). Talk to your healthcare provider before using over-the-counter NSAIDs for more than 10 days.
General information about the safe and effective use of NSAIDs Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those uled in a Medication Guide. Do not use NSAIDs for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give NSAIDs to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. If you would like more information about NSAIDs, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about NSAIDs that is written for health professionals.
Active ingredients: diclofenac sodium, misoprostol. Inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, hydrogenated castor oil, hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acid copolymer, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone (polyvidone) K-30, sodium hydroxide, starch (corn), talc, triethyl citrate. This product's labeling may have been updated. For the most recent prescribing information, please visit www.pfizer.com. For more information, go to www.pfizer.com or call 1-800-438-1985.LAB: 0793-8.0
Principal Display Panel - 50 Mg Tablet Label
Arthrotec® 50
50 mg diclofenac sodium/ 200 mcg misoprostol
Distributed by G.D. Searle LLC Division of Pfizer Inc, NY, NY 10017
Principal Display Panel - 50 Mg Tablet Bottle Label
ALWAYS DISPENSE WITH MEDICATION GUIDE
Pfizer
NDC 0025-1411-60
Arthrotec® 50diclofenac sodium and misoprostoldelayed-release tablets
50 mg/200 mcg
DOSAGE AND USESee accompanying prescribing information.
60 TabletsRx only
20688677
Principal Display Panel - 75 Mg Tablet Label
Arthrotec® 75
75 mg diclofenac sodium/ 200 mcg misoprostol
Distributed by G.D. Searle LLC Division of Pfizer Inc, NY, NY 10017
Principal Display Panel - 75 Mg Tablet Bottle Label
ALWAYS DISPENSE WITH MEDICATION GUIDE
Pfizer
NDC 0025-1421-60
Arthrotec® 75diclofenac sodium and misoprostoldelayed-release tablets
75 mg/200 mcg
DOSAGE AND USESee accompanying prescribing information.
60 TabletsRx only
20688676
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