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Nexlizet (bempedoic acid 180 mg ezetimibe 10 mg) Dailymed

  1. Human Prescription
  2. Adenosine Triphosphate-Citrate Lyase Inhibitor
  3. Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.

Generic: bempedoic acid and ezetimibe is used for the treatment of Hyperlipoproteinemia Type II Atherosclerosis Hypercholesterolemia Hyperlipidemia, Familial Combined Pregnancy

Nexlizet tablet, film coated - (bempedoic acid 180 mg ezetimibe 10 mg) image

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Recent Major Changes Section


Indications and Usage (1) 03/2024
Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2) 03/2024
Contraindications (4) 03/2024
Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2) 03/2024

1 Indications And Usage


NEXLIZET, a combination of bempedoic acid and ezetimibe, is indicated:
  • As an adjunct to diet, alone or in combination with other low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering therapies, to reduce LDL-C in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).

The bempedoic acid component of NEXLIZET is indicated:
  • To reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and coronary revascularization in adults who are unable to take recommended statin therapy (including those not taking a statin) with:
    • established cardiovascular disease (CVD), or
    • a high risk for a CVD event but without established CVD.


NEXLIZET, a combination of bempedoic acid, an adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor, and ezetimibe, a dietary cholesterol absorption inhibitor, is indicated:
  • As an adjunct to diet, alone or in combination with other low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering therapies, to reduce LDL-C in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). (1)

The bempedoic acid component of NEXLIZET is indicated:
  • To reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and coronary revascularization in adults who are unable to take recommended statin therapy (including those not taking a statin) with:
    • established cardiovascular disease (CVD), or
    • a high risk for a CVD event but without established CVD. (1)

2 Dosage And Administration


  • Administer one tablet (180 mg bempedoic acid and 10 mg ezetimibe) orally once daily with or without food. (2.1)
  • Swallow the tablet whole. (2.1)
  • Coadministration with Bile Acid Sequestrants: Administer at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after bile acid sequestrants. (2.2)

2.1Recommended Dosage and Administration

  • The recommended dosage of NEXLIZET is one tablet orally once daily. One tablet of NEXLIZET contains 180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe.
  • Swallow the tablet whole. NEXLIZET can be taken with or without food.
  • If a dose is missed, take the missed dose as soon as possible. Do not double the next dose.
  • After initiation of NEXLIZET, analyze lipid levels within 8 to 12 weeks.

2.2Coadministration with Bile Acid Sequestrants


Administer NEXLIZET either at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after administration of a bile acid sequestrant [see Drug Interactions (7)].

3 Dosage Forms And Strengths


NEXLIZET is available as:
  • Tablets: 180 mg/10 mg, blue, oval shaped, debossed with "818" on one side and "ESP" on the other side.


Tablets: 180 mg bempedoic acid/10 mg ezetimibe (3)

4 Contraindications


NEXLIZET is contraindicated in patients with a prior hypersensitivity to ezetimibe or bempedoic acid or any of the excipients in NEXLIZET [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash and urticaria have been reported with ezetimibe or bempedoic acid.


Known hypersensitivity to ezetimibe or bempedoic acid or any of the excipients in NEXLIZET. (4, 6.2)

5 Warnings And Precautions



Hyperuricemia: Elevations in serum uric acid have occurred. Assess uric acid levels periodically as clinically indicated. Monitor for signs and symptoms of hyperuricemia, and initiate treatment with urate-lowering drugs as appropriate. (5.1)

Tendon Rupture: Tendon rupture has occurred. Discontinue NEXLIZET at the first sign of tendon rupture. Avoid NEXLIZET in patients who have a history of tendon disorders or tendon rupture. (5.2)

5.1Hyperuricemia


Bempedoic acid, a component of NEXLIZET, inhibits renal tubular OAT2 and may increase blood uric acid levels [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In the primary hyperlipidemia trials [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], 26% of bempedoic acid-treated patients with normal baseline uric acid values (versus 9.5% placebo) experienced hyperuricemia one or more times, and 3.5% of patients experienced clinically significant hyperuricemia reported as an adverse reaction (versus 1.1% placebo). Increases in uric acid levels usually occurred within the first 4 weeks of treatment initiation, persisted throughout treatment, and returned to baseline following discontinuation of treatment. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean placebo-adjusted increase in uric acid compared to baseline was 0.8 mg/dL for patients treated with bempedoic acid. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial [see Clinical Studies (14.2)], 16.4% of bempedoic acid-treated patients experienced clinically significant hyperuricemia reported as an adverse reaction (versus 8.2% placebo).

Elevated blood uric acid may lead to the development of gout. In the primary hyperlipidemia trials, gout was reported in 1.5% of patients treated with bempedoic acid versus 0.4% of patients treated with placebo. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, gout was reported in 3.2% of patients treated with bempedoic acid and 2.2% treated with placebo.

Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if symptoms of hyperuricemia occur. Assess serum uric acid when clinically indicated. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hyperuricemia, and initiate treatment with urate-lowering drugs as appropriate.

5.2Tendon Rupture


Bempedoic acid, a component of NEXLIZET, is associated with an increased risk of tendon rupture or injury. In the primary hyperlipidemia trials [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], tendon rupture occurred in 0.5% of patients treated with bempedoic acid versus 0% of placebo-treated patients and involved the rotator cuff (the shoulder), biceps tendon, or Achilles tendon. Tendon rupture occurred within weeks to months of starting bempedoic acid. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial [see Clinical Studies (14.2)], tendon rupture events occurred in 1.2% of bempedoic acid-treated patients versus 0.9% of placebo-treated patients. Tendon rupture may occur more frequently in patients over 60 years of age, in those taking corticosteroid or fluoroquinolone drugs, in patients with renal failure, and in patients with previous tendon disorders.

Discontinue NEXLIZET immediately if the patient experiences rupture of a tendon. Consider discontinuing NEXLIZET if the patient experiences joint pain, swelling, or inflammation. Advise patients to rest at the first sign of tendinitis or tendon rupture and to contact their healthcare provider if tendinitis or tendon rupture symptoms occur. Consider alternative therapy in patients with a history of tendon disorders or tendon rupture.

6 Adverse Reactions


The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Common adverse reactions with NEXLIZET in the primary hyperlipidemia trials (incidence ≥ 2% and more frequently than placebo) were upper respiratory tract infection, muscle spasms, hyperuricemia, back pain, abdominal pain or discomfort, bronchitis, pain in extremity, anemia, elevated liver enzymes, diarrhea, arthralgia, sinusitis, fatigue, and influenza. (6.1)
  • The common adverse reaction associated with bempedoic acid in the cardiovascular outcomes trial (incidence ≥ 2% and more frequently than placebo) were hyperuricemia, renal impairment, anemia, elevated liver enzymes, muscle spasms, gout, and cholelithiasis. (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Esperion at 833-377-7633 (833 ESPRMED) 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 clinical practice.


Bempedoic acid

The data in Table 1 reflect exposure to bempedoic acid in two placebo-controlled primary hyperlipidemia trials that included 2,009 patients treated with bempedoic acid for 52 weeks (median treatment duration of 52 weeks) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The mean age for bempedoic acid-treated patients was 65 years, 29% were female, 95% were White, 3% were Black or African American, 1% were Asian, and 1% were other races; 3% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. All patients received bempedoic acid 180 mg orally once daily plus maximally tolerated statin therapy alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies. At baseline, 97% of patients had CVD and about 4% had a diagnosis of HeFH. Patients on simvastatin 40 mg/day or higher were excluded from the trials.

In the primary hyperlipidemia trials, adverse reactions led to discontinuation of treatment in 11% of bempedoic acid-treated patients and 8% of placebo-treated patients. The most common reasons for bempedoic acid treatment discontinuation were muscle spasms (0.5% versus 0.3% placebo), diarrhea (0.4% versus 0.1% placebo), and pain in extremity (0.3% versus 0.0% placebo). Adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of bempedoic acid-treated patients and more frequently than in placebo-treated patients are shown in Table 1.
Table 1. Adverse Reactions (≥ 2% and greater than placebo) in Bempedoic Acid-Treated Patients with Primary Hyperlipidemia and CVD or HeFH (Trials 2 and 3)
Adverse Reaction PlaceboBackground therapy included statin ± other lipid-lowering therapies (N = 999) % Bempedoic acid (N = 2,009) %
Upper respiratory tract infection 4.0 4.5
Muscle spasms 2.3 3.6
HyperuricemiaGrouped term that includes other related terms 1.1 3.5
Back pain 2.2 3.3
Abdominal pain or discomfort 2.2 3.1
Bronchitis 2.5 3.0
Pain in extremity 1.7 3.0
Anemia 1.9 2.8
Elevated liver enzymes 0.8 2.1

In the cardiovascular outcomes trial in which 7,001 patients were exposed to bempedoic acid and 6,964 patients were exposed to placebo for a median of 3.1 years [see Clinical Studies (14.2)], adverse reactions led to discontinuation of treatment in 11% of bempedoic acid-treated patients and 10% of placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of bempedoic acid-treated patients and more frequently than placebo are shown in Table 2.
Table 2. Adverse Reactions (≥ 2% and 0.5% greater than placebo) in Bempedoic Acid-Treated Patients with CVD or at High Risk for CVD (Trial 4)
Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=6,964) % Bempedoic Acid (N=7,001) %
HyperuricemiaGrouped term that includes other related terms 8 16
Renal impairmentRenal impairment includes laboratory related terms including glomerular filtration rate decreased, blood creatinine increased and hematuria 9 11
Anemia 4 5
Elevated liver enzymes 3 4
Muscle spasms 3 4
Gout 2 3
Cholelithiasis 1 2


Other Adverse Reactions


Tendon Rupture

In the hyperlipidemia trials, tendon rupture occurred in 0.5% of bempedoic acid-treated patients versus 0% of placebo-treated patients. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, tendon rupture events occurred in 1.2% of bempedoic acid-treated patients versus 0.9% of placebo-treated patients.


Gout

In the hyperlipidemia trials, gout occurred in 1.5% of bempedoic acid-treated patients versus 0.4% of placebo-treated patients. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, gout occurred in 3.2% of bempedoic acid-treated patients versus 2.2% of placebo-treated patients.


Laboratory Tests

Bempedoic acid was associated with persistent changes in multiple laboratory tests that occurred within the first 4 weeks of treatment, and returned to baseline following discontinuation of treatment.


Increase in Creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen

In the hyperlipidemia trials, there was a mean increase in serum creatinine of 0.05 mg/dL compared to baseline with bempedoic acid at Week 12. Approximately 3.8% of patients treated with bempedoic acid had blood urea nitrogen values that doubled (versus 1.5% placebo), and about 2.2% of patients had creatinine values that increased by 0.5 mg/dL (versus 1.1% placebo). In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, 7.1% of patients had creatinine values that increased by 0.5 mg/dL (versus 5.5% placebo) and 9.5% of patients in the bempedoic acid group had BUN values that increased ≥ 2× baseline (versus 6.2% placebo).


Decrease in Hemoglobin and Leukocytes

In the hyperlipidemia trials, approximately 5.1% of patients treated with bempedoic acid (versus 2.3% placebo) had decreases in hemoglobin levels of 2 or more g/dL and below the lower limit of normal on one or more occasion. Anemia was reported in 2.8% of patients treated with bempedoic acid and 1.9% of patients treated with placebo. Approximately 9.0% of bempedoic acid-treated patients with normal baseline leukocyte count had a decrease to less than the lower limit of normal on one or more occasion (versus 6.7% placebo). Leukocyte decrease was generally asymptomatic and did not require medical intervention. In the hyperlipidemia trials, there was a small imbalance in skin or soft tissue infections, including cellulitis (0.8% versus 0.4%), but there was no imbalance in other infections.

In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, 10.8% of patients (versus 7.4% placebo) had a decrease in hemoglobin of 2 or more g/dL and below the lower limit of normal. Anemia was reported in 4.7% of patients treated with bempedoic acid and 3.9% of patients treated with placebo. There were 9.3% of bempedoic acid-treated patients with a leukocyte count below the lower limit of normal (and normal at baseline) at any point (versus 6.8% placebo).


Increase in Platelet Count

In the hyperlipidemia trials, approximately 10.1% of bempedoic acid-treated patients (versus 4.7% placebo) had increases in platelet counts of 100× 109/L or more on one or more occasion. In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, 18.6% of patients in the bempedoic acid-treated group (versus 10.2% placebo) had an increase in platelet count of 100 × 109/L or more. Platelet count increase was asymptomatic and did not result in increased risk for thromboembolic events.


Increase in Liver Enzymes

In the hyperlipidemia trials, increases in hepatic transaminases (AST and/or ALT) were observed with bempedoic acid. In most cases, the elevations were transient and resolved or improved with continued therapy or after discontinuation of therapy. Increases to more than 3× the upper limit of normal (ULN) in AST occurred in 1.4% of patients treated with bempedoic acid versus 0.4% of placebo patients, and increases to more than 5× ULN occurred in 0.4% of bempedoic acid- treated versus 0.2% of placebo-treated patients. Increases in ALT occurred with similar incidence between bempedoic acid- and placebo-treated patients. Elevations in transaminases were generally asymptomatic and not associated with elevations ≥ 2× ULN in bilirubin or with cholestasis.

In the cardiovascular outcomes trial, the incidence of repeated and confirmed ALT and/or AST >3× ULN was 1.6% in the bempedoic acid-treated group (versus 1.0% placebo). A higher percentage of patients in the bempedoic acid-treated group had hepatic enzyme elevations versus placebo (4.5% versus 3.0%, respectively).


Increase in Creatine Kinase

In the hyperlipidemia trials, approximately 1.0% of patients (versus 0.6% placebo) had elevations of CK levels of 5 or more times the normal value on one or more occasions, and 0.4% of patients (versus 0.2% placebo) had elevations of CK levels of 10 or more times.


Ezetimibe

In 10 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], 2,396 patients with primary hyperlipidemia (age range 9 to 86 years, 50% were female, 90% were White, 5% were Black or African American, 2% were Asian, 3% other races; 3% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity) and elevated LDL-C were treated with ezetimibe 10 mg/day for a median treatment duration of 12 weeks (range 0 to 39 weeks).

Adverse reactions reported in ≥ 2% of patients treated with ezetimibe and at an incidence greater than placebo in placebo-controlled studies of ezetimibe are shown in Table 3.
Table 3. Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 2% and greater than placebo in Ezetimibe-treated Patients
Adverse Reaction Placebo(%)N = 1,159 Ezetimibe 10 mg(%)N = 2,396
Upper respiratory tract infection 2.5 4.3
Diarrhea 3.7 4.1
Arthralgia 2.2 3.0
Sinusitis 2.2 2.8
Pain in extremity 2.5 2.7
Fatigue 1.5 2.4
Influenza 1.5 2.0


NEXLIZET

In a 4-arm, 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group, factorial trial, 85 patients received NEXLIZET (180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe) once daily [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The mean age for NEXLIZET-treated patients was 62 years, 51% were female, 78% were White, 19% were Black or African American, 2% were Asian, and 1% were American Indian or Alaska Native; 11% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. At baseline, 61% of patients had CVD and/or a diagnosis of HeFH. All patients received NEXLIZET plus maximally tolerated statin therapy. Patients taking simvastatin 40 mg/day or higher and patients taking non-statin lipid-lowering therapy (including fibrates, niacin, bile acid sequestrants, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors) were excluded from the trial.

Adverse reactions led to discontinuation of treatment in 8% of patients on NEXLIZET, 5% of patients on placebo, 10% of patients on bempedoic acid, and 12% of patients on ezetimibe. The most common reason for NEXLIZET treatment discontinuation was oral discomfort (2% NEXLIZET versus 0% placebo). The most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 3% and greater than placebo) observed with NEXLIZET, but not observed in clinical trials of bempedoic acid or ezetimibe, were urinary tract infection (5.9% NEXLIZET versus 2.4% placebo), nasopharyngitis (4.7% NEXLIZET versus 0% placebo), and constipation (4.7% NEXLIZET versus 0% placebo).

6.2 Postmarketing Experience


The following additional adverse reactions have been reported in postmarketing experience for ezetimibe and/or bempedoic acid. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Blood Disorders: thrombocytopenia

Gastrointestinal Disorders: abdominal pain; pancreatitis; nausea

Hepatobiliary Disorders: elevations in liver transaminases, including elevations more than 5× ULN; hepatitis; cholelithiasis; cholecystitis

Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions including: anaphylaxis, angioedema, wheezing, rash, and urticaria

Musculoskeletal Disorders: elevated creatine phosphokinase; myopathy/rhabdomyolysis

Nervous System Disorders: dizziness; paresthesia; depression; headache

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: erythema multiforme

7 Drug Interactions


No specific pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies with NEXLIZET have been conducted. Table 4 uls drug interactions with NEXLIZET that have been identified in studies with bempedoic acid or ezetimibe.
Table 4. Clinically Important Drug Interactions with NEXLIZET
Simvastatin
Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of NEXLIZET with simvastatin causes an increase in simvastatin concentration and may increase the risk of simvastatin-related myopathy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Intervention: Avoid concomitant use of NEXLIZET with simvastatin greater than 20 mg.
Pravastatin
Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of NEXLIZET with pravastatin causes an increase in pravastatin concentration and may increase the risk of pravastatin-related myopathy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Intervention: Avoid concomitant use of NEXLIZET with pravastatin greater than 40 mg.
Cyclosporine
Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of NEXLIZET and cyclosporine increases ezetimibe and cyclosporine concentrations. The degree of increase in ezetimibe exposure may be greater in patients with severe renal insufficiency [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Intervention: Monitor cyclosporine concentrations in patients receiving NEXLIZET and cyclosporine. In patients treated with cyclosporine, weigh the potential effects of the increased exposure to ezetimibe from concomitant use against the benefits of alterations in lipid levels provided by NEXLIZET.
Fibrates
Clinical Impact: Both fenofibrate and ezetimibe may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. Coadministration of NEXLIZET with fibrates other than fenofibrate is not recommended [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Intervention: If cholelithiasis is suspected in a patient receiving NEXLIZET and fenofibrate, gallbladder studies are indicated and alternative lipid-lowering therapy should be considered.
Cholestyramine
Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of NEXLIZET and cholestyramine decreases ezetimibe concentration. This may result in a reduction of efficacy. [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]
Intervention: Administer NEXLIZET either at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after bile acid sequestrants [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

  • Simvastatin: Avoid concomitant use of NEXLIZET with simvastatin greater than 20 mg. (7)
  • Pravastatin: Avoid concomitant use of NEXLIZET with pravastatin greater than 40 mg. (7)
  • Cyclosporine: Monitor cyclosporine concentrations. (7)
  • Fibrates: If cholelithiasis is suspected in a patient receiving NEXLIZET and fenofibrate, consider alternative lipid-lowering therapy. (6.2, 7)

8 Use In Specific Populations


  • Pregnancy: Based on mechanism of action, may cause fetal harm. (8.1)
  • Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended with NEXLIZET. (8.2)

8.1 Pregnancy


Risk Summary

Discontinue NEXLIZET when pregnancy is recognized unless the benefits of therapy outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.

There are insufficient data on bempedoic acid use in pregnant women to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are insufficient data on ezetimibe use in pregnant women to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, bempedoic acid was not teratogenic in rats and rabbits when administered at doses resulting in exposures up to 11 and 12 times, respectively, the human exposures at the maximum clinical dose, based on AUC. In oral (gavage) embryo-fetal development studies of ezetimibe conducted in rats and rabbits during organogenesis, there was no evidence of maternal toxicity or embryo-fetal teratogenic or toxicologic effects at exposures up to 10 and 150 times the human exposure, respectively, based on AUC (see Data). NEXLIZET decreases cholesterol synthesis and possibly the synthesis of other biologically active substances derived from cholesterol; therefore, NEXLIZET may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women based on the mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. In addition, treatment of hyperlipidemia is not generally necessary during pregnancy. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process and the discontinuation of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should have little impact on the outcome of long-term therapy of primary hyperlipidemia for most patients.

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.

Report pregnancies to the Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. Adverse Event reporting line at 1-833-377-7633.


Data


Animal Data

8.2 Lactation



Risk Summary

There is no information regarding the presence of bempedoic acid in human or animal milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. There is no information about the presence of ezetimibe in human milk. Ezetimibe is present in rat milk (see Data ). When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. There is no information about the effects of ezetimibe on the breastfed infant or the effects of ezetimibe on milk production.

NEXLIZET decreases cholesterol synthesis and possibly the synthesis of other biologically active substances derived from cholesterol and may cause harm to the breastfed infant. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, based on the mechanism of action, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with NEXLIZET [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)].


Data


Animal Data

Ezetimibe was present in the milk of lactating rats. The pup to maternal plasma ratio for total ezetimibe was 0.5 on lactation day 12.

8.4 Pediatric Use


The safety and effectiveness of NEXLIZET have not been established in pediatric patients.

8.5 Geriatric Use


Of the 301 patients in the clinical trial of NEXLIZET, 149 (50%) were 65 years of age and older, while 49 (16%) were 75 years of age and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of NEXLIZET have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger adult patients.

8.6 Renal Impairment


No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. There is limited experience with bempedoic acid in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30mL/min/1.73 m2), and bempedoic acid has not been studied in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.7 Hepatic Impairment


No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. NEXLIZET is not recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C) due to the unknown effects of the increased exposure to ezetimibe [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

10 Overdosage


There is no clinical experience with NEXLIZET overdosage. In the event of an overdosage, consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations.

11 Description


NEXLIZET tablets, for oral use, contain bempedoic acid, an adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor, and ezetimibe, a dietary cholesterol absorption inhibitor.

The chemical name for bempedoic acid is 8-hydroxy-2,2,14,14-tetramethyl-pentadecanedioic acid. The molecular formula is C19H36O5, and the molecular weight is 344.5 grams per mole. Bempedoic acid is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in ethanol, isopropanol and pH 8.0 phosphate buffer, and insoluble in water and aqueous solutions below pH 5.

Structural formula:

The chemical name for ezetimibe is 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3(R)-[3-(4-fluorophenyl)-3(S)- hydroxypropyl]-4(S)-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-azetidinone. The molecular formula is C24H21F2NO3 and the molecular weight is 409.4 grams per mole. Ezetimibe is a white, crystalline powder that is freely to very soluble in ethanol, methanol, and acetone and practically insoluble in water.

Structural formula:

Each film-coated tablet of NEXLIZET contains 180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe, and the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxy propyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone K30, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium starch glycolate. The film coating comprises of FD&C Blue #1/Brilliant Blue FCF Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue #2/Indigo Carmine Aluminum Lake, glyceryl monocaprylocaprate, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc, and titanium dioxide.

12 Clinical Pharmacology


12.1 Mechanism of Action


NEXLIZET contains bempedoic acid and ezetimibe. NEXLIZET reduces elevated LDL-C through inhibition of cholesterol synthesis in the liver and absorption in the intestine.


Bempedoic acid

Bempedoic acid is an adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor that lowers LDL-C by inhibition of cholesterol synthesis in the liver. ACL is an enzyme upstream of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Bempedoic acid and its active metabolite, ESP15228, require coenzyme A (CoA) activation by very long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACSVL1) to ETC-1002-CoA and ESP15228-CoA, respectively. ACSVL1 is expressed primarily in the liver. Inhibition of ACL by ETC-1002-CoA results in decreased cholesterol synthesis in the liver and lowers LDL-C in blood via upregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptors.


Ezetimibe

Ezetimibe reduces blood cholesterol by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol by the small intestine. The molecular target of ezetimibe has been shown to be the sterol transporter, Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1), which is involved in the intestinal uptake of cholesterol and phytosterols. Ezetimibe localizes at the brush border of the small intestine and inhibits the absorption of cholesterol, leading to a decrease in the delivery of intestinal cholesterol to the liver. This causes a reduction of hepatic cholesterol stores and an increase in LDL receptors, resulting in clearance of cholesterol from the blood.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics


Administration of bempedoic acid and ezetimibe in combination with other lipid modifying agents, decreases LDL-C, non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), apolipoprotein B (apo B), and total cholesterol (TC) in patients with hyperlipidemia.


Cardiac Electrophysiology

At a dose of 240 mg (1.3 times the approved recommended dose), bempedoic acid does not prolong the QT interval to any clinically relevant extent.

The effect of ezetimibe or NEXLIZET on QT interval has not been evaluated.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics



Absorption


NEXLIZET

The bioavailability of NEXLIZET tablets was similar relative to that from the individual tablets, coadministered. Maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) values for bempedoic acid and its active metabolite (ESP15228) were similar between formulations, but ezetimibe glucuronide and ezetimibe Cmax values were approximately 22% and 13% lower, respectively, for NEXLIZET relative to the individual tablets, coadministered. Given a similar overall extent of ezetimibe glucuronide and ezetimibe exposure (as measured by AUC), a 22% lower Cmax is unlikely to be clinically significant.


Bempedoic acid

Following single oral administration of NEXLIZET (180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe), mean (± SD) Cmax and AUC of bempedoic acid were 12.6 (± 2.80) µg/mL and 202 (± 43.4) µg.hr/mL, respectively; the median time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was 3.0 hours. Following multiple-dose administration of bempedoic acid monotherapy, the steady-state maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and AUC at 180 mg/day were 20.6 ± 6.1 µg/mL and 289.0 ± 96.4 µg∙h/mL, respectively. Bempedoic acid steady-state pharmacokinetics were generally linear over a range of >60 mg to 220 mg (approximately 33% to 122% of the recommended dosage of 180 mg daily). There were no time-dependent changes in bempedoic acid pharmacokinetics following repeat administration at the recommended dosage, and bempedoic acid steady-state was achieved after 7 days. The mean accumulation ratio was approximately 2.3-fold.

The steady-state Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite (ESP15228) of bempedoic acid were 2.8 ± 0.9 µg/mL and 51.2 ± 17.2 µg∙h/mL, respectively. ESP15228 likely made a minor contribution to the overall clinical activity of bempedoic acid based on systemic exposure, relative potency, and pharmacokinetic properties.


Ezetimibe

After a single dose of NEXLIZET to fasted adults, mean ± SD ezetimibe Cmax of 3.56 ± 1.90 ng/mL were attained with a median Tmax of 5 hr. Ezetimibe-glucuronide mean Cmax values of 107 ± 46 ng/mL were achieved with a median Tmax of 1 hr. For ezetimibe monotherapy, there was no substantial deviation from dose proportionality between 5 mg and 20 mg (0.5- to 2-fold the recommended dosage). The absolute bioavailability of ezetimibe cannot be determined, as the compound is virtually insoluble in aqueous media suitable for injection.


Effect of Food


Distribution


Elimination


Bempedoic acid

The steady-state clearance (CL/F) of bempedoic acid was 11.2 mL/min after once-daily dosing; renal clearance of unchanged bempedoic acid represented less than 2% of total clearance. The mean ± SD half-life for bempedoic acid in humans was 21 ± 11 hours at steady-state.


Ezetimibe

Both ezetimibe and ezetimibe-glucuronide are eliminated from plasma with a half-life of approximately 22 hours for both.


Metabolism


Ezetimibe

Ezetimibe is primarily metabolized in the small intestine and liver via glucuronide conjugation with subsequent biliary and renal excretion. Minimal oxidative metabolism has been observed in all species evaluated.

In humans, ezetimibe is rapidly metabolized to ezetimibe-glucuronide. Ezetimibe and ezetimibe- glucuronide are the major drug-derived compounds detected in plasma, constituting approximately 10% to 20% and 80% to 90% of the total drug in plasma, respectively. Plasma concentration-time profiles exhibit multiple peaks, suggesting enterohepatic recycling.


Excretion


Specific Populations


Patients with Renal Impairment


Patients with Hepatic Impairment

NEXLIZET is not recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment due to the unknown effects of the increased exposure to ezetimibe [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].


Other Specific Populations


Drug Interaction Studies


Bempedoic acid


Ezetimibe

Ezetimibe had no significant effect on a series of probe drugs (caffeine, dextromethorphan, tolbutamide, and IV midazolam) known to be metabolized by cytochrome P450 (1A2, 2D6, 2C8/9 and 3A4) in a "cocktail" study of twelve healthy adult males. This indicates that ezetimibe is neither an inhibitor nor an inducer of these cytochrome P450 isozymes, and it is unlikely that ezetimibe will affect the metabolism of drugs that are metabolized by these enzymes.

13 Nonclinical Toxicology


13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility


Bempedoic acid

Bempedoic acid was negative for mutagenicity in an in vitro Ames assay and negative for clastogenicity in the vitro human lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay. Bempedoic acid was negative in both in vivo mouse micronucleus and in vivo rat bone marrow micronucleus/liver comet assay. In a 2-year rat carcinogenicity study, Wistar rats were given oral doses of bempedoic acid at 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg/day. An increased incidence of liver hepatocellular adenomas and hepatocellular adenomas combined with carcinomas, thyroid gland follicular cell adenoma and follicular cell adenomas combined with carcinomas, and pancreatic islet cell adenomas combined with carcinomas were observed in male rats at the dose of 30 mg/kg/day (exposure equivalent to the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), based on AUC). In a 2-year mice carcinogenicity study, CD-1 mice were given oral doses of bempedoic acid at 25, 75 and 150 mg/kg/day. Bempedoic acid-related increases in the incidence of liver hepatocellular adenomas, hepatocellular carcinomas and hepatocellular adenomas combined with carcinomas in male mice were observed at 75 and 150 mg/kg/day (exposures equivalent to the MRHD). Observations of liver and thyroid tumors are consistent with PPAR alpha agonism in rodents. The human relevance of pancreatic islet cell tumor findings is unknown.

In fertility and early embryofetal development study in rats, bempedoic acid was given orally to male and female rats at 10, 30 and 60 mg/kg/day. Males were dosed for 28 days prior to mating and females were dosed 14 days prior to mating through gestation day 7. No adverse effects on fertility were observed in females in the absence of maternal toxicity. No effects were observed on male fertility outcomes, but decreases in sperm counts were observed at 60 mg/kg/day (9 times the MRHD).


Ezetimibe

A 104-week dietary carcinogenicity study with ezetimibe was conducted in rats at doses up to 1,500 mg/kg/day (males) and 500 mg/kg/day (females) (approximately 20 times the human exposure at 10 mg daily based on AUC0-24hr for total ezetimibe). A 104-week dietary carcinogenicity study with ezetimibe was also conducted in mice at doses up to 500 mg/kg/day (>150 times the human exposure at 10 mg daily based on AUC0-24hr for total ezetimibe). There were no statistically significant increases in tumor incidences in drug-treated rats or mice.

No evidence of mutagenicity was observed in vitro in a microbial mutagenicity (Ames) test with Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli with or without metabolic activation. No evidence of clastogenicity was observed in vitro in a chromosomal aberration assay in human peripheral blood lymphocytes with or without metabolic activation. In addition, there was no evidence of genotoxicity in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test.

In oral (gavage) fertility studies of ezetimibe conducted in rats, there was no evidence of reproductive toxicity at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day in male or female rats (approximately 7 times the human exposure at 10 mg daily based on AUC0-24hr for total ezetimibe).

14 Clinical Studies


14.1 Primary Hyperlipidemia Trials in Adults


The efficacy of NEXLIZET was investigated in a single, multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial that enrolled 301 patients with HeFH, established CVD, or multiple risk factors for CVD on maximally tolerated statin therapy. The efficacy of NEXLIZET in patients with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease has not been established.

Trial 1 (NCT03337308) was a 4-arm, 12-week trial that assessed the efficacy of NEXLIZET in 301 patients randomized 2:2:2:1 to receive either oral NEXLIZET (180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe) (n = 86), bempedoic acid 180 mg (n = 88), ezetimibe 10 mg (n = 86), or placebo (n = 41) once daily as add-on to maximally tolerated statin therapy. Patients were stratified by cardiovascular risk and baseline statin intensity. Patients on simvastatin 40 mg per day or higher and patients taking non-statin lipid-lowering therapy (including fibrates, niacin, bile acid sequestrants, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors) were excluded from the trial.


Baseline Demographics and Disease Characteristics: Overall, the mean age at baseline was 64 years (range: 30 to 87 years), 50% were 65 years of age and older, 50% were female, 81% were White, 17% were Black or African American, 1% were Asian, and 1% were other races; 12% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. Sixty-two percent (62%) of patients had clinical CVD and/or a diagnosis of HeFH. The mean baseline LDL-C was 149.7 mg/dL. At the time of randomization, 65% of patients were receiving statin therapy; and 35% were receiving high intensity statin therapy.


Efficacy Results: The primary efficacy outcome measure of the study was the percent change from baseline to Week 12 in LDL-C. The difference between NEXLIZET and placebo in mean percent change in LDL-C from baseline to Week 12 was -38% (95% CI: -47%, -30%; p <0.001). High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides (TG) were examined as exploratory endpoints and were not included in the statistical hierarchy. The difference between NEXLIZET and placebo in mean percent change from baseline to Week 12 was -5% for HDL and median percent change from baseline to Week 12 was -11% for TG. The maximum LDL-C lowering effect was observed at Week 4. For additional results see Table 5.
Table 5. Lipid Parameters in Adult Patients with HeFH, CVD or Risk Factors for CVD on Maximally Tolerated Statin Therapy (Mean % Change from Baseline to Week 12 in Trial 1)a. 3.5% of subjects on NEXLIZET, 6.8% of subjects on bempedoic acid, 7% of subjects on ezetimibe and 2.4% of subjects on placebo had missing LDL-C data at Week 12. Percent change from baseline was analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with treatment and randomization strata (high intensity statin versus other and CVD and/or HeFH versus multiple CV risk factors) as factors and baseline lipid parameter as a covariate. Missing data for LDL-C, non-HDL-C, TC and apo B were imputed through multiple imputation using a pattern mixture model (PMM) account for treatment adherence.
LDL-C LS Mean non-HDL-C LS Mean apo B LS Mean TC LS Mean
apo B = apolipoprotein B; HDL-C = high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C = low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; LS = least squares; SE = standard error; TC = total cholesterol.
Background statin: atorvastatin, lovastatin, pitavastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin.
NEXLIZET (180 mg/10 mg; n = 86Number of randomized subjects at baseline) -36 -32 -25 -26
Bempedoic acid (180 mg; n = 88) -17 -14 -12 -12
Ezetimibe (10 mg; n = 86) -23 -20 -15 -16
Placebo (n = 41) 2 2 6 1
Mean Difference of NEXLIZET versus Placebo (95% CI) -38 (-47, -30) -34 (-44, -23) -30 (-40, -20) -27 (-35, -19)

Examination of age, sex, and race subgroups did not identify differences in response to NEXLIZET among these subgroups in any of the trials.


Bempedoic Acid


Primary Hyperlipidemia

In the two primary hyperlipidemia (52-week) trials (Trials 2 and 3) that included 3,009 adult patients with HeFH or established CVD on maximally tolerated statin therapy, the difference between bempedoic acid and placebo in mean percent change in LDL-C from baseline to Week 12 was -17% to -18%. Bempedoic acid also significantly lowered non-HDL-C (-13%), apo B (-12% to -13%), and TC (-11%) compared with placebo.


Ezetimibe


Ezetimibe Added to On-going Statin Therapy: In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 8-week trial, 769 patients (age range 22 to 85 years, 42% were females; 90% were White, 6% were Black or African American, 1% were Asian, and 3% were other races; 2% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity) with primary hyperlipidemia, known coronary heart disease or multiple cardiovascular risk factors who were already receiving statin monotherapy, but who had not met their NCEP ATP II target LDL-C goal, were randomized to receive either ezetimibe or placebo in addition to their on-going statin therapy.

Ezetimibe, added to on-going statin therapy, significantly lowered TC (-17%), LDL-C (-25%), apo B (-19%), and non-HDL-C (-23%) relative to baseline and compared with a statin administered alone. LDL-C reductions induced by ezetimibe were generally consistent across all statins.


Ezetimibe Initiated Concurrently with a Statin: In four, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 12-week trials, in 2,382 patients (age range 18 to 87 years, 57% were female; 88% were White, 5% were Black or African American, 2% were Asian, and 5% were other races mostly identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity) with hyperlipidemia, ezetimibe or placebo was orally administered alone or with various doses of atorvastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin, or lovastatin. When all patients receiving ezetimibe with a statin were compared to all those receiving the corresponding statin alone, ezetimibe significantly lowered LDL-C (ezetimibe + all atorvastatin doses [-56%] versus all atorvastatin doses alone [-44%]; ezetimibe + all simvastatin doses [-51%] versus all simvastatin doses alone [-36%]; ezetimibe + all pravastatin doses [-39%] versus all pravastatin doses alone [-25%]; ezetimibe + all lovastatin doses [-40%] versus all lovastatin doses alone [-25%]). LDL-C reductions induced by ezetimibe were generally consistent across all statins.

14.2 Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial in Adults With CVD or at High Risk for CVD


Trial 4 (NCT02993406) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, event-driven trial in 13,970 adult patients with established CVD (70%) or at high risk for a CVD event but without CVD (30%) who were not receiving recommended statin dosages. Patients with established CVD had documented history of coronary artery disease, symptomatic peripheral arterial disease, and/or cerebrovascular atherosclerotic disease. Patients without established CVD were considered at high risk for CVD based on meeting at least one of the following criteria:
  •  (1) Diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2) in females over 65 years of age or males over 60 years of age;(2) A Reynolds Risk score > 30% or a SCORE Risk score > 7.5% over 10 years. Reynolds risk score and SCORE risk score evaluate a 10-year risk of having a cardiovascular (CV) event. The Reynolds risk score is based on the following risk factors: sex, age, smoking status, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and familial history of CVD events. LDL-C is an additional risk factor considered in SCORE risk score; or (3) A coronary artery calcium score >400 Agatston units at any time in the past.

Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either oral bempedoic acid 180 mg per day (n = 6,992) or placebo (n = 6,978), alone or as an add on to other background lipid-lowering therapies. Background therapy could include less than low-intensity statin dosages. Overall, 95.3% of adult patients were followed until the end of the trial or death. The median follow-up duration was 3.4 years.


Baseline Demographics and Disease Characteristics

At baseline, the mean age was 66 years (range 21 to 92 years), 59% were 65 years of age and older, 15% were 75 years of age and older, 48% were female, 91% were White, 2% were Black or African American, 4% were American Indian or Alaska Native, 2% were Asian, and 1% were other races; 17% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity.

Selected additional baseline characteristics included hypertension (85%), diabetes mellitus (46%), current tobacco user (22%), eGFR < 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (21%), and a mean body mass index of 30 kg/m2. The mean baseline LDL-C was 139 mg/dL. At baseline, 38% of patients were taking at least one lipid modifying therapy including less than low-intensity statin dosages (23%), ezetimibe (12%), or fibrates (5%). Most patients were taking at least one other CV medication including acetylsalicylic acid (57%), selective beta blockers (52%), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (40%), or angiotensin receptor blockers (32%).


Efficacy Results

The risk for the primary composite endpoint (MACE-4: time to first occurrence of CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization; p= 0.0037) and the key secondary composite endpoint (MACE-3: time to first occurrence of CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke; p= 0.0058) was significantly reduced in bempedoic acid-treated patients compared to the placebo-treated patients (Table 6). The difference between bempedoic acid and placebo in mean percent change in LDL-C from baseline to Month 6 was -20% (95% CI: -21%, -19%).
Table 6: Major Cardiovascular Events in Adults with Established CVD or at High Risk for CVD (Trial 4)
Endpoint Bempedoic acid N=6,992 Placebo N=6,978 Bempedoic acid vs. Placebo
n (%) n (%) Hazard Ratio (95% CI)
CI = confidence interval; MACE = major adverse cardiac event.
aHazard ratio and corresponding 95% CI were based on a Cox proportional hazard model fitting treatment as explanatory variable.
This table also presents the time to first occurrence for each of the components of MACE; patients may have been included in more than one category.
Primary Composite Endpoint
Cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, coronary revascularization (MACE-4) 819 (11.7) 927 (13.3) 0.87 (0.79, 0.96)
Key Secondary Endpoint
Cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke (MACE-3) 575 (8.2) 663 (9.5) 0.85 (0.76, 0.96)
Components of Primary Composite Endpoint
Non-fatal myocardial infarction 236 (3.4) 317 (4.5) 0.73 (0.62, 0.87)
Coronary revascularization 435 (6.2) 529 (7.6) 0.81 (0.72, 0.92)
Non-fatal stroke 119 (1.7) 144 (2.1) 0.82 (0.64, 1.05)
Cardiovascular death 269 (3.8) 257 (3.7) 1.04 (0.88, 1.24)

The Kaplan-Meier estimates of the cumulative incidence of the MACE-4 and MACE-3 endpoints are shown in Figure 1 and 2 below.
MACE = major adverse cardiac eventNote: MACE-4 was defined as the time to first occurrence of the composite endpoint of CV death, nonfatal MI, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization.
Figure 1: Cumulative Incidence of Primary Composite Endpoint (MACE-4) Over 4.5 Years in Adults with Established CVD or at High Risk for CVD (Trial 4)


MACE = major adverse cardiac event MACE-3 was defined as time to first occurrence of the composite endpoint of CV death, nonfatal MI, or nonfatal stroke.
Figure 2: Cumulative Incidence of Composite Endpoint (MACE-3) Over 4.5 Years in Adults with Established CVD or at High Risk for CVD (Trial 4)



16 How Supplied/storage And Handling


HOW SUPPLIED SECTION


How Supplied

NEXLIZET tablets are supplied as follows:
Tablet Strength Description Package Configuration NDC No.
180 mg of bempedoic acid and 10 mg of ezetimibe blue, oval shaped, debossed with "818" on one side and "ESP" on the other side Bottle of 30 tablets with child-resistant cap 72426-818-03
Bottle of 90 tablets with child-resistant cap 72426-818-09

STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION


Storage and Handling

Store at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C); excursions permitted to 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store and dispense in the original package protected from extreme heat and humidity. Do not discard desiccant.

17 Patient Counseling Information


Advise patients to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).


Risk of Hyperuricemia

Advise patients of the risk of elevated serum uric acid levels, including development of gout. Inform patients that serum uric acid levels may be monitored during treatment with NEXLIZET. Patients with signs or symptoms of hyperuricemia should contact their healthcare provider if symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].


Risk of Tendon Rupture

Inform patients of the risk of tendon rupture. Advise patients to rest at the first sign of tendinitis or tendon rupture and to immediately contact their healthcare provider if tendinitis or tendon rupture symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].


Risk of Myopathy with Concomitant Use of Simvastatin or Pravastatin

Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider(s) if they are taking, or plan to take simvastatin or pravastatin. The risk of myopathy occurring with the use of simvastatin or pravastatin may be increased when taken with NEXLIZET [see Drug Interactions (7)].


Pregnancy

Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus based on NEXLIZET's mechanism of action. Advise females to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy safety study that monitors pregnancy outcomes in patients exposed to NEXLIZET during pregnancy. Encourage these patients to report their pregnancy to Esperion at 1-833-377-7633 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].


Manufactured for: Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. 3891 Ranchero Drive, Suite 150 Ann Arbor, MI 48108

NEXLIZET® (bempedoic acid and ezetimibe) © 2024 Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.

Spl Patient Package Insert Section

PATIENT INFORMATION NEXLIZET® (NEX-lee-zet)(bempedoic acid and ezetimibe)tablets, for oral use
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Revised: 03/2024                    
What is NEXLIZET? NEXLIZET is a prescription medicine that contains 2 cholesterol-lowering medicines, bempedoic acid and ezetimibe.
  • NEXLIZET is used along with diet, with or without other cholesterol-lowering medicines, to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or bad cholesterol) in adults with high blood cholesterol levels called primary hyperlipidemia, including a type of high cholesterol called heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).
  • Bempedoic acid when used as a component of NEXLIZET is used:
    • to lower the risk of heart attack and heart procedures like stent placement or bypass surgery, in adults who are unable to take recommended statin treatment (a cholesterol-lowering medicine), or are not taking a statin, who:
      • have known heart disease, or
      • are at high risk for heart disease but without known heart disease.
It is not known if NEXLIZET is safe and effective in children.
Do not take NEXLIZET if you are allergic to ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, or any of the ingredients in NEXLIZET. See the end of this leaflet for a complete ul of ingredients in NEXLIZET. Stop taking NEXLIZET, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you have any signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction including:
  • swelling of your face, lips, mouth or tongue
  • wheezing
  • severe itching
  • fast heart beat or pounding in your chest
  • trouble breathing
  • skin rashes, redness, or swelling
  • dizziness or fainting
Before you start taking NEXLIZET, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:
  • have or had gout.
  • have or had tendon problems.
  • are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while taking NEXLIZET. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take NEXLIZET while you are pregnant. If you are pregnant during NEXLIZET treatment, you are encouraged to call Esperion at 1-833-377-7633 to share information about the health of you and your baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if NEXLIZET passes into your breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take NEXLIZET or breastfeed. You should not do both.
  • have severe kidney problems.
  • have moderate or severe liver problems.
NEXLIZET may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how NEXLIZET works. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take or plan to take:
  • simvastatin or pravastatin (other cholesterol-lowering medicines). Taking simvastatin or pravastatin with NEXLIZET may increase your risk of developing muscle pain or weakness (myopathy).
  • cyclosporine (often used in organ transplant patients)
  • fibrates (used to lower cholesterol)
  • cholestyramine (used to lower cholesterol)
Know the medicines you take. Keep a ul of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I take NEXLIZET?
  • Take NEXLIZET exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure.
  • Take 1 NEXLIZET tablet by mouth each day.
  • Swallow the NEXLIZET tablet whole. Do not cut, chew, or crush the tablet.
  • You may take NEXLIZET with or without food.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses of NEXLIZET at the same time.
  • If you take a medicine that lowers cholesterol by binding bile acids, such as colesevelam or cholestyramine, take NEXLIZET at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after you take bile acid binding medicines. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you take these medicines.
  • Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your LDL-C levels between 8 to 12 weeks after starting treatment with NEXLIZET.
  • In case of an overdose, get medical help or contact a live Poison Center expert right away at 1-800-222-1222. Advice is also available online at poisonhelp.org.
What are possible side effects of NEXLIZET? NEXLIZET may cause serious side effects, including:
  • increased levels of uric acid in your blood (hyperuricemia). This can happen within 4 weeks of you starting NEXLIZET and continue throughout your treatment. Your healthcare provider may monitor your blood uric acid levels while you are taking NEXLIZET. High levels of blood uric acid may lead to gout. Call your healthcare provider if you have the following symptoms of hyperuricemia and gout:
  • severe foot pain especially in the toe joint
  • warm joints
  • swelling
  • tender joints
  • joint redness
  • tendon rupture or injury. Tendon problems can happen in people who take bempedoic acid, one of the medicines in NEXLIZET. Tendons are tough cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Symptoms of tendon problems may include pain, swelling, tears, and inflammation of tendons, most commonly with the rotator cuff (the shoulder), the biceps tendon (upper arm), and Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. This can also happen with other tendons. Tendon ruptures can happen within weeks or months of starting NEXLIZET.
    • The risk of getting tendon problems while you take NEXLIZET is higher if you:
  • are over 60 years of age
  • are taking antibiotics (fluoroquinolones)
  • have had tendon problems
  • are taking steroids (corticosteroids)
  • have renal failure
  • Stop taking NEXLIZET immediately and get medical help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of a tendon rupture:
    • hear or feel a snap or pop in a tendon area
    • bruising right after an injury in a tendon area
    • unable to move the affected area or put weight on the affected area
    Avoid exercise and using the affected area.
The most common side effects of NEXLIZET in people with primary hyperlipidemia include:
  • symptoms of the common cold, flu, or flu-like symptoms
  • muscle spasms
  • back pain
  • stomach pain
  • bronchitis
  • pain in shoulder, legs, or arms
  • anemia
  • increased liver enzymes
  • diarrhea
  • joint pain
  • swelling of sinuses (sinusitis)
  • fatigue
The most common side effects of bempedoic acid in people with heart problems include:
  • kidney problems
  • anemia
  • increased liver enzymes
  • muscle spasms
  • gallstones
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of NEXLIZET. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store NEXLIZET?
  • Store NEXLIZET in the original package at room temperature between 68ºF to 77ºF (20ºC to 25ºC).
  • Protect from heat and moisture.
  • Do not throw away the packet that helps to keep your medicine dry (desiccant).
  • NEXLIZET comes in a bottle with a child-resistant cap.
Keep NEXLIZET and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of NEXLIZET. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those uled in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use NEXLIZET for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give NEXLIZET to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about NEXLIZET that is written for healthcare professionals.
What are the ingredients in NEXLIZET?
  • active ingredients: bempedoic acid and ezetimibe
  • inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxy propyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone K30, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium starch glycolate
  • tablet coating: FD&C Blue #1/Brilliant Blue FCF Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue #2/Indigo Carmine Aluminum Lake, glyceryl monocaprylocaprate, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc, and titanium dioxide
Manufactured for:Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.3891 Ranchero Drive, Suite 150Ann Arbor, MI 48108© 2024 Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.

Principal Display Panel - 180 Mg/10 Mg Tablet Bottle Label


NDC 72426-818-03 Rx only

NEXLIZET® (bempedoic acid and ezetimibe) tablets

Contains 30 Tablets

180 mg/10 mg

DISCLAIMER:

"This tool does not provide medical advice, and is for informational and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Call your doctor to receive medical advice. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please dial 911."

"Do not rely on openFDA to make decisions regarding medical care. While we make every effort to ensure that data is accurate, you should assume all results are unvalidated. We may limit or otherwise restrict your access to the API in line with our Terms of Service."

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