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GEMCITABINE Dailymed

  1. Human Prescription
  2. Nucleoside Metabolic Inhibitor
  3. Hospira, Inc.

Generic: gemcitabine is used for the treatment of Breast Neoplasms Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung Ovarian Neoplasms Pregnancy Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal

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  1. FDA Adverse Reactions

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Recent Major Changes Section



Warnings and Precautions,

Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (5.3)
5/2024

1 Indications And Usage



Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated:
  • •in combination with carboplatin, for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy. (1.1)
  • •in combination with paclitaxel, for first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated. (1.2)
  • •in combination with cisplatin, for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. (1.3)
  • •as a single agent for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. (1.4)

1.1Ovarian Cancer


Gemcitabine in combination with carboplatin is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy.

1.2Breast Cancer


Gemcitabine in combination with paclitaxel is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated.

1.3Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer


Gemcitabine in combination with cisplatin is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with inoperable, locally advanced (Stage IIIA or IIIB) or metastatic (Stage IV) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

1.4Pancreatic Cancer


Gemcitabine is indicated as first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced (nonresectable Stage II or Stage III) or metastatic (Stage IV) adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Gemcitabine is indicated for patients previously treated with fluorouracil.

2 Dosage And Administration



Gemcitabine for injection, USP is for intravenous use only.
  • •Ovarian Cancer: 1,000 mg/m2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. (2.1)
  • •Breast Cancer: 1,250 mg/m2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. (2.2)
  • •Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: 1,000 mg/m2 over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle or 1,250 mg/m2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. (2.3)
  • •Pancreatic Cancer: 1,000 mg/m2 over 30 minutes once weekly for the first 7 weeks, then one week rest, then once weekly for 3 weeks of each 28-day cycle. (2.4)

2.1Ovarian Cancer


Recommended Dose and Schedule

The recommended dosage of gemcitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with carboplatin AUC 4 administered intravenously on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration. Refer to carboplatin prescribing information for additional information.


Dosage Modifications

Recommended gemcitabine dosage modifications for myelosuppression are described in Tables 1 and 2 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
Table 1: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Ovarian Cancer
Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (× 106/L) Platelet Count (× 106/L) Dosage Modification

Day 1

Greater than or equal to 1,500
And
Greater than or equal to 100,000
None

Less than 1,500
Or
Less than 100,000
Delay Treatment Cycle

Day 8

Greater than or equal to 1,500
And
Greater than or equal to 100,000
None

1,000 to 1,499
Or
75,000 to 99,999
50% of full dose

Less than 1,000
Or
Less than 75,000
Hold
Absolute neutrophil count less than 500 × 106/L for more than 5 days or
    • Absolute neutrophil count less than 100 × 106/L for more than 3 days or
    • Febrile neutropenia or
    • Platelets less than 25,000 × 106/L or
    • Cycle delay for more than one week due to toxicity
    Table 2: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine for Myelosuppression in Previous Cycle in Ovarian Cancer
    Occurrence Myelosuppression During Treatment Cycle Dosage Modification

    Initial Occurrence
    • • • • •

    Permanently reduce gemcitabine to 800 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8

    Subsequent Occurrence

    If any of the above toxicities occur after the initial dose reduction:
    Permanently reduce gemcitabine to 800 mg/m2 on Day 1 only

    2.2Breast Cancer



    Recommended Dose and Schedule

    The recommended dosage of gemcitabine is 1,250 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 administered as a 3-hour intravenous infusion on Day 1 before gemcitabine administration. Refer to paclitaxel prescribing information for additional information.


    Dosage Modifications

    Recommended gemcitabine dosage modifications for myelosuppression are described in Table 3 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
    Table 3: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Breast Cancer
    Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (× 106/L) Platelet Count (× 106/L) Dosage Modification

    Day 1

    Greater than or equal to 1,500
    And
    Greater than or equal to 100,000
    None

    Less than 1,500
    Or
    Less than 100,000
    Hold

    Day 8

    Greater than or equal to 1,200
    And
    Greater than 75,000
    None

    1,000 to 1,199
    Or
    50,000 to 75,000
    75% of full dose

    700 to 999
    And
    Greater than or equal to 50,000
    50% of full dose

    Less than 700
    Or
    Less than 50,000
    Hold

    2.3Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer



    Recommended Dose and Schedule


    28-day schedule

    The recommended dosage of gemcitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle in combination with cisplatin 100 mg/m2 administered intravenously on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration.


    21-day schedule

    The recommended dosage of gemcitabine is 1,250 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with cisplatin 100 mg/m2 administered intravenously on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration.

    Refer to cisplatin prescribing information for additional information.


    Dosage Modifications

    Recommended dosage modifications for gemcitabine myelosuppression are described in Table 4 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

    2.4Pancreatic Cancer



    Recommended Dose and Schedule

    The recommended dosage of gemcitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes. The recommended treatment schedule is as follows:
    • •Weeks 1 to 8: weekly dosing for the first 7 weeks followed by one week rest.
    • •After week 8: weekly dosing on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle.


    Dosage Modifications

    Recommended dosage modifications for gemcitabine for myelosuppression are described in Table 4 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
    Table 4: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine for Myelosuppression in Pancreatic Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
    Absolute Neutrophil Count (× 106/L) Platelet Count (× 106/L) Dosage Modification

    Greater than or equal to 1,000
    And
    Greater than or equal to 100,000
    None

    500 to 999
    Or
    50,000 to 99,999
    75% of full dose

    Less than 500
    Or
    Less than 50,000
    Hold

    2.5Dosage Modifications for Non-Hematologic Adverse Reactions


    Permanently discontinue gemcitabine for any of the following:

    Withhold gemcitabine or reduce dose by 50% for other Grade 3 or 4 non-hematological adverse reactions until resolved. No dose modifications are recommended for alopecia, nausea, or vomiting.

    2.6Preparation

    • •Gemcitabine vials contain no antimicrobial preservatives and are intended for single dose only.
    • •Gemcitabine is a cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1
    • •Exercise caution and wear gloves when preparing gemcitabine solutions. Immediately wash the skin thoroughly or rinse the mucosa with copious amounts of water if gemcitabine contacts the skin or mucus membranes. Death has occurred in animal studies due to dermal absorption.
    • •Reconstitute the 2 g vial with 50 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to yield a gemcitabine concentration of 38 mg/mL. Reconstituted gemcitabine is a clear, colorless to light straw-colored solution.
    • •Visually inspect reconstituted product for particulate matter and discoloration. Discard if particulate matter or discoloration is observed.
    • •Withdraw the calculated dose from the vial and discard any unused portion.
    • •Prior to administration, dilute the reconstituted solution with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to a minimum final concentration of at least 0.1 mg/mL.
    • •Store gemcitabine solutions (reconstituted and diluted) at controlled room temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Do not refrigerate as crystallization can occur. Discard gemcitabine solutions if not used within 24 hours after reconstitution.
    • •No incompatibilities have been observed with infusion bottles or polyvinyl chloride bags and administration sets.

    3 Dosage Forms And Strengths


    For injection: 2 g gemcitabine as a sterile white to off-white lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution.


    For injection: 2 gram lyophilized powder in single-dose vials for reconstitution. (3)

    4 Contraindications


    Gemcitabine is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. Reactions include anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].


    Patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. (4)

    5 Warnings And Precautions


    • •Schedule-Dependent Toxicity: Increased toxicity with infusion time greater than 60 minutes or dosing more frequently than once weekly. (5.1)
    • •Myelosuppression: Monitor for myelosuppression prior to each cycle and reduce or withhold dose for severe myelosuppression. (5.2, 5.8)
    • •Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Permanently discontinue gemcitabine injection if SCARs occur. (5.3)
    • •Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure: Discontinue gemcitabine for injection for unexplained dyspnea or other evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity. (5.4)
    • •Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): Monitor renal function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue gemcitabine for injection for HUS or severe renal impairment. (5.5)
    • •Hepatic Toxicity: Monitor hepatic function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue gemcitabine for injection for severe hepatic toxicity. (5.6)
    • •Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise females and males of reproductive potential to use effective contraception. (5.7, 8.1)
    • •Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity: May cause severe and life-threatening toxicity when administered during or within 7 days of radiation therapy. (5.8)
    • •Capillary Leak Syndrome: Discontinue gemcitabine for injection. (5.9)
    • •Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): Discontinue gemcitabine for injection. (5.10)

    5.1Schedule-Dependent Toxicity


    In clinical trials evaluating the maximum tolerated dose of gemcitabine, prolongation of the infusion time beyond 60 minutes or more frequent than weekly dosing resulted in an increased incidence of clinically significant hypotension, severe flu-like symptoms, myelosuppression, and asthenia. The half-life of gemcitabine is influenced by the length of the infusion [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Refer to the recommended gemcitabine dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4)].

    5.2Myelosuppression


    Myelosuppression manifested by neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia occurs with gemcitabine as a single agent and the risks are increased when gemcitabine is combined with other cytotoxic drugs. In clinical trials, Grade 3–4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia occurred in 25%, 8%, and 5%, respectively of the 979 patients who received single agent gemcitabine. The frequencies of Grade 3–4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia varied from 48% to 71%, 8% to 28%, and 5% to 55%, respectively, in patients receiving gemcitabine in combination with another drug [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

    Prior to each dose of gemcitabine, obtain a complete blood count (CBC) with a differential and a platelet count. Modify the dosage as recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4)].

    5.3Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs)


    SCARs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), which can be life-threatening or fatal, have been reported in association with gemcitabine treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Permanently discontinue gemcitabine in patients who develop SCARs.

    5.4Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure


    Pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary edema, and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), has been reported. In some cases, these pulmonary events can lead to fatal respiratory failure despite the discontinuation of therapy. The onset of pulmonary symptoms may occur up to 2 weeks after the last dose of gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)].

    Permanently discontinue gemcitabine in patients who develop unexplained dyspnea, with or without bronchospasm, or evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity.

    5.5Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome


    Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), including fatalities from renal failure or the requirement for dialysis, can occur with gemcitabine. In clinical trials, HUS occurred in 0.25% of 2,429 patients. Most fatal cases of renal failure were due to HUS [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Serious cases of thrombotic microangiopathy other than HUS have been reported with gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

    Assess renal function prior to initiation of gemcitabine and periodically during treatment. Consider the diagnosis of HUS in patients who develop anemia with evidence of microangiopathic hemolysis; increased bilirubin or LDH; reticulocytosis; severe thrombocytopenia; or renal failure (increased serum creatinine or BUN). Permanently discontinue gemcitabine in patients with HUS or severe renal impairment. Renal failure may not be reversible even with the discontinuation of therapy.

    5.6Hepatic Toxicity


    Drug-induced liver injury, including liver failure and death, has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine alone or with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)]. Administration of gemcitabine in patients with concurrent liver metastases or a pre-existing medical history of hepatitis, alcoholism, or liver cirrhosis can lead to exacerbation of the underlying hepatic insufficiency. Assess hepatic function prior to initiation of gemcitabine and periodically during treatment. Permanently discontinue gemcitabine in patients who develop severe hepatic toxicity.

    5.7Embryo-Fetal Toxicity


    Based on animal data and its mechanism of action, gemcitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Gemcitabine was teratogenic, embryotoxic, and fetotoxic in mice and rabbits.

    Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 6 months after the final dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 3 months following the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

    5.8Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity


    Gemcitabine is not recommended for use in combination with radiation therapy.


    Concurrent (given together or ≤7 days apart)

    Life-threatening mucositis, especially esophagitis and pneumonitis occurred in a trial in which gemcitabine was administered at a dose of 1,000 mg/m2 to patients with non-small cell lung cancer for up to 6 consecutive weeks concurrently with thoracic radiation.


    Non-concurrent (given >7 days apart)

    Excessive toxicity has not been observed when gemcitabine is administered more than 7 days before or after radiation. Radiation recall has been reported in patients who received gemcitabine after prior radiation.

    5.9Capillary Leak Syndrome


    Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) with severe consequences has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Permanently discontinue gemcitabine if CLS develops during therapy.

    5.10Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome


    Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. PRES can present with headache, seizure, lethargy, hypertension, confusion, blindness, and other visual and neurologic disturbances. Confirm the diagnosis of PRES with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Permanently discontinue gemcitabine if PRES develops during therapy.

    6 Adverse Reactions


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


    The most common adverse reactions for the single agent (≥20%) are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. (6.1)

    To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hospira, Inc. at 1-800-441-4100, or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or https://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.


    Single Agent

    The data described below reflect exposure to gemcitabine as a single agent administered at doses between 800 mg/m2 to 1,250 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly in 979 patients with various malignancies. The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions of single agent gemcitabine are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. The most common (≥5%) Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions were neutropenia, nausea/vomiting, increased ALT, increased alkaline phosphatase, anemia, increased AST, and thrombocytopenia. Approximately 10% of the 979 patients discontinued gemcitabine due to adverse reactions. Adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in 2% of 979 patients were cardiovascular adverse reactions (myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, arrhythmia, and hypertension) and adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in <1% of 979 patients were anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatic dysfunction, renal dysfunction, nausea/vomiting, fever, rash, dyspnea, hemorrhage, infection, stomatitis, somnolence, flu-like syndrome, and edema.

    Tables 5 and 6 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in patients with various malignancies receiving single agent gemcitabine across 5 clinical trials. Additional clinically significant adverse reactions are provided following Table 6.
    Table 5: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥10% of Patients Receiving Single Agent GemcitabineGrade based on criteria from the World Health Organization (WHO).
    Adverse Reactions For approximately 60% of patients, non-laboratory adverse reactions were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Gemcitabine N=699–974; all patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Nausea and Vomiting
    69
    13
    1

    Fever
    41
    2
    0

    Rash
    30
    <1
    0

    Dyspnea
    23
    3
    <1

    Diarrhea
    19
    1
    0

    Hemorrhage
    17
    <1
    <1

    Infection
    16
    1
    <1

    Alopecia
    15
    <1
    0

    Stomatitis
    11
    <1
    0

    Somnolence
    11
    <1
    <1

    Paresthesias
    10
    <1
    0
    Table 6: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Single Agent GemcitabineGrade based on criteria from the WHO.
    Laboratory Abnormality Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine N=699–974; all patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Hematologic

      Anemia
    68
    7
    1

      Neutropenia
    63
    19
    6

      Thrombocytopenia
    24
    4
    1

    Hepatic

      Increased ALT
    68
    8
    2

      Increased AST
    67
    6
    2

      Increased Alkaline

    55
    7
    2

      Phosphatase

      Hyperbilirubinemia
    13
    2
    <1

    Renal

      Proteinuria
    45
    <1
    0

      Hematuria
    35
    <1
    0

      Increased BUN
    16
    0
    0

      Increased Creatinine
    8
    <1
    0

    Additional adverse reactions include the following:
    • •Transfusion requirements: Red blood cell transfusions (19%); platelet transfusions (<1%)
    • •Edema: Edema (13%), peripheral edema (20%), generalized edema (<1%)
    • •Flu-like symptoms: Fever, asthenia, anorexia, headache, cough, chills, myalgia, asthenia insomnia, rhinitis, sweating and/or malaise (19%)
    • •Infection: Sepsis (<1%)
    • •Extravasation: Injection-site reactions (4%)
    • •Allergic: Bronchospasm (<2%); anaphylactoid reactions


    Ovarian Cancer

    Tables 7 and 8 presents the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with carboplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 1) of gemcitabine with carboplatin (n=175) compared to carboplatin alone (n=174) for the second-line treatment of ovarian cancer in women with disease that had relapsed more than 6 months following first-line platinum-based chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Additional clinically significant adverse reactions, occurring in <10% of patients, are provided following Table 8.

    The proportion of patients with dose adjustments for carboplatin (1.8% versus 3.8%), doses of carboplatin omitted (0.2% versus 0) and discontinuing treatment for adverse reactions (11% versus 10%), were similar between arms. Dose adjustment for gemcitabine occurred in 10% of patients and gemcitabine dose was omitted in 14% of patients in the gemcitabine/carboplatin arm.
    Table 7: Adverse Reactions Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Carboplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Carboplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 1Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0.
    Adverse Reactions Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N=175) Carboplatin (N=174)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Nausea
    69
    6
    0
    61
    3
    0

    Alopecia
    49
    0
    0
    17
    0
    0

    Vomiting
    46
    6
    0
    36
    2
    <1

    Constipation
    42
    6
    1
    37
    3
    0

    Fatigue
    40
    3
    <1
    32
    5
    0

    Diarrhea
    25
    3
    0
    14
    <1
    0

    Stomatitis/Pharyngitis
    22
    <1
    0
    13
    0
    0

    Hematopoietic growth factors were administered more frequently in the gemcitabine-containing arm: leukocyte growth factor (24% and 10%) and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (7% and 3.9%).

    The following clinically relevant Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in the gemcitabine with carboplatin arm: dyspnea (3.4% versus 2.9%), febrile neutropenia (1.1% versus 0), hemorrhagic event (2.3% versus 1.1 %), motor neuropathy (1.1% versus 0.6%), and rash/desquamation (0.6% versus 0).
    Table 8: Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Carboplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Carboplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 1Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0.
    Laboratory Abnormality Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N=175) Carboplatin (N=174)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Hematologic

    Neutropenia
    90
    42
    29
    58
    11
    1

    Anemia
    86
    22
    6
    75
    9
    2

    Thrombocytopenia
    78
    30
    5
    57
    10
    1

    RBC TransfusionsPercent of patients receiving transfusions. Transfusions are not CTC-graded events. Blood transfusions included both packed red blood cells and whole blood.

    38
    -
    -
    15
    -
    -

    Platelet Transfusions

    9
    -
    -
    3
    -
    -

    Hematopoietic growth factors were administered more frequently in the gemcitabine-containing arm: leukocyte growth factor (24% and 10%) and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (7% and 3.9%).

    The following clinically relevant Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in the gemcitabine with carboplatin arm: dyspnea (3.4% versus 2.9%), febrile neutropenia (1.1% versus 0), hemorrhagic event (2.3% versus 1.1 %), motor neuropathy (1.1% versus 0.6%), and rash/desquamation (0.6% versus 0).


    Breast Cancer

    Tables 9 and 10 presents the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with paclitaxel arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 2) of gemcitabine with paclitaxel (n=262) compared to paclitaxel alone (n=259) for the first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in women who received anthracycline-containing chemotherapy in the adjuvant/neo-adjuvant setting or for whom anthracyclines were contraindicated [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Additional clinically significant adverse reactions, occurring in <10% of patients, are provided following Table 10.

    The requirement for dose reduction of paclitaxel were higher for patients in the gemcitabine/paclitaxel arm (5% versus 2%). The number of paclitaxel doses omitted (<1%), the proportion of patients discontinuing treatment for adverse reactions (7% versus 5%) and the number of treatment-related deaths (1 patient in each arm) were similar between the two arms.
    Table 9: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Paclitaxel and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Paclitaxel [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 2Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0.
    Adverse Reactions Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N=262) Paclitaxel (N=259)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Alopecia
    90
    14
    4
    92
    19
    3

    Neuropathy-Sensory
    64
    5
    <1
    58
    3
    0

    Nausea
    50
    1
    0
    31
    2
    0

    Fatigue
    40
    6
    <1
    28
    1
    <1

    Vomiting
    29
    2
    0
    15
    2
    0

    Diarrhea
    20
    3
    0
    13
    2
    0

    Anorexia
    17
    0
    0
    12
    <1
    0

    Neuropathy-Motor
    15
    2
    <1
    10
    <1
    0

    Stomatitis/Pharyngitis
    13
    1
    <1
    8
    <1
    0

    Fever
    13
    <1
    0
    3
    0
    0

    Rash/Desquamation
    11
    <1
    <1
    5
    0
    0

    Febrile Neutropenia
    6
    5
    <1
    2
    1
    0
    Table 10: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Paclitaxel and at a Higher Incidence than Patients Receiving Single Agent Paclitaxel [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 2Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0.
    Laboratory Abnormality Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine / Paclitaxel (N=262) Paclitaxel (N=259)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Hematologic

      Anemia
    69
    6
    1
    51
    3
    <1

      Neutropenia
    69
    31
    17
    31
    4
    7

      Thrombocytopenia
    26
    5
    <1
    7
    <1
    <1

    Hepatobiliary

      Increased ALT
    18
    5
    <1
    6
    <1
    0

      Increased AST
    16
    2
    0
    5
    <1
    0

    Clinically relevant Grade 3 or 4 dyspnea occurred with a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with paclitaxel arm compared with the paclitaxel arm (1.9% versus 0).


    Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

    Tables 11 and 12 presents the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 3) of gemcitabine with cisplatin (n=260) administered in 28-day cycles as compared to cisplatin alone (n=262) in patients receiving first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC [see Clinical Studies (14.3)].

    Patients randomized to gemcitabine with cisplatin received a median of 4 cycles of treatment and those randomized to cisplatin alone received a median of 2 cycles of treatment. In this trial, the requirement for dose adjustments (>90% versus 16%), discontinuation of treatment for adverse reactions (15% versus 8%), and the proportion of patients hospitalized (36% versus 23%) were all higher for patients receiving gemcitabine with cisplatin compared to those receiving cisplatin alone. The incidence of febrile neutropenia (3% versus <1%), sepsis (4% versus 1%), Grade 3 cardiac dysrhythmias (3% versus <1%) were all higher in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm compared to the cisplatin alone arm. The two-drug combination was more myelosuppressive with 4 (1.5%) possibly treatment-related deaths, including 3 resulting from myelosuppression with infection and one case of renal failure associated with pancytopenia and infection. No deaths due to treatment were reported on the cisplatin arm.
    Table 11: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Cisplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 3Grade based on National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC).
    Adverse Reactions Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Gemcitabine/Cisplatin N=217–253; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Cisplatin N=213–248; all cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Nausea
    93
    25
    2
    87
    20
    <1

    Vomiting
    78
    11
    12
    71
    10
    9

    Alopecia
    53
    1
    0
    33
    0
    0

    Neuro Motor
    35
    12
    0
    15
    3
    0

    Diarrhea
    24
    2
    2
    13
    0
    0

    Neuro Sensory
    23
    1
    0
    18
    1
    0

    Infection
    18
    3
    2
    12
    1
    0

    Fever
    16
    0
    0
    5
    0
    0

    Neuro Cortical
    16
    3
    1
    9
    1
    0

    Neuro Mood
    16
    1
    0
    10
    1
    0

    Local
    15
    0
    0
    6
    0
    0

    Neuro Headache
    14
    0
    0
    7
    0
    0

    Stomatitis
    14
    1
    0
    5
    0
    0

    Hemorrhage
    14
    1
    0
    4
    0
    0

    Hypotension
    12
    1
    0
    7
    1
    0

    Rash
    11
    0
    0
    3
    0
    0
    Table 12: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Cisplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3–4)] in Study 3Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC.
    Laboratory Abnormality Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine/ Cisplatin N=217–253; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Cisplatin N=213–248; all cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Hematologic

      Anemia
    89
    22
    3
    67
    6
    1

      Thrombocytopenia
    85
    25
    25
    13
    3
    1

      Neutropenia
    79
    22
    35
    20
    3
    1

      Lymphopenia
    75
    25
    18
    51
    12
    5

      RBC TransfusionsPercent of patients receiving transfusions. Percent transfusions are not CTC-graded events.

    39
    -
    -
    13
    -
    -

      Platelet Transfusions

    21
    -
    -
    <1
    -
    -

    Hepatic

      Increased Transaminases
    22
    2
    1
    10
    1
    0

      Increased Alkaline

    19
    1
    0
    13
    0
    0

      Phosphatase

    Renal

      Increased Creatinine

    38
    4
    <1
    31
    2
    <1

      Proteinuria
    23
    0
    0
    18
    0
    0

      Hematuria
    15
    0
    0
    13
    0
    0

    Other Laboratory

      Hyperglycemia
    30
    4
    0
    23
    3
    0

      Hypomagnesemia
    30
    4
    3
    17
    2
    0

      Hypocalcemia
    18
    2
    0
    7
    0
    <1

    Tables 13 and 14 presents the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 4) of gemcitabine with cisplatin (n=69) administered in 21-day cycles as compared to etoposide with cisplatin (n=66) in patients receiving first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC [see Clinical Studies (14.3)]. Additional clinically significant adverse reactions are provided following Table 14.

    Patients in the gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) arm received a median of 5 cycles and those in the etoposide/cisplatin (EC) arm received a median of 4 cycles. The majority of patients receiving more than one cycle of treatment required dose adjustments; 81% in the GC arm and 68% in the EC arm. The incidence of hospitalizations for adverse reactions was 22% in the GC arm and 27% in the EC arm. The proportion of patients who discontinued treatment for adverse reactions was higher in the GC arm (14% versus 8%). The proportion of patients who were hospitalized for febrile neutropenia was lower in the GC arm (7% versus 12%). There was one death attributed to treatment, a patient with febrile neutropenia and renal failure, which occurred in the GC arm.
    Table 13: Selected Adverse Reactions in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin in Study 4Grade based on criteria from the WHO.
    Adverse Reactions Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Pain data were not collected. Gemcitabine/Cisplatin N=67–69; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Etoposide/Cisplatin N=57–63; all Etoposide/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Nausea and Vomiting
    96
    35
    4
    86
    19
    7

    Alopecia
    77
    13
    0
    92
    51
    0

    Paresthesias
    38
    0
    0
    16
    2
    0

    Infection
    28
    3
    1
    21
    8
    0

    Stomatitis
    20
    4
    0
    18
    2
    0

    Diarrhea
    14
    1
    1
    13
    0
    2

    EdemaFlu-like syndrome and edema were not graded.

    12
    -
    -
    2
    -
    -

    Rash
    10
    0
    0
    3
    0
    0

    Hemorrhage
    9
    0
    3
    3
    0
    3

    Fever
    6
    0
    0
    3
    0
    0

    Somnolence
    3
    0
    0
    3
    2
    0

    Flu-like Syndrome

    3
    -
    -
    0
    -
    -

    Dyspnea
    1
    0
    1
    3
    0
    0
    Table 14: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin in Study 4Grade based on criteria from the WHO.
    Laboratory Abnormality Regardless of causality. Gemcitabine/Cisplatin N=67–69; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Etoposide/Cisplatin N=57–63; all etoposide/ cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data.
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)

    Hematologic

      Anemia
    88
    22
    0
    77
    13
    2

      Neutropenia
    88
    36
    28
    87
    20
    56

      Thrombocytopenia
    81
    39
    16
    45
    8
    5

      RBC Transfusions

    29
    -
    -
    21
    -
    -

      Platelet TransfusionsWHO grading scale not applicable to proportion of patients with transfusions.

    3
    -
    -
    8
    -
    -

    Hepatic

      Increased Alkaline

    16
    0
    0
    11
    0
    0

      Phosphatase

      Increased ALT
    6
    0
    0
    12
    0
    0

      Increased AST
    3
    0
    0
    11
    0
    0

    Renal

      Hematuria
    22
    0
    0
    10
    0
    0

      Proteinuria
    12
    0
    0
    5
    0
    0

      Increased BUN
    6
    0
    0
    4
    0
    0

      Increased Creatinine
    2
    0
    0
    2
    0
    0

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience


    The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of gemcitabine. 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 and lymphatic system: Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)
    • • Cardiovascular: Congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, supraventricular arrhythmias
    • • Vascular: Peripheral vasculitis, gangrene, capillary leak syndrome
    • • Skin: Cellulitis; pseudocellulitis; severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP); desquamation and bullous skin eruptions
    • • Hepatic: Hepatic failure, hepatic veno-occlusive disease
    • • Pulmonary: Interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary edema, adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary eosinophilia
    • • Nervous System: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)

    8 Use In Specific Populations



    Lactation: Advise not to breastfeed. (8.2)

    8.1 Pregnancy


    Risk Summary

    Based on animal data and its mechanism of action, gemcitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. There are no available data on the use of gemcitabine in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, gemcitabine was teratogenic, embryotoxic, and fetotoxic in mice and rabbits (see Data ). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus [see Use in Special Populations (8.3)].

    In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20% respectively.

    Data


    Animal Data

    Gemcitabine is embryotoxic in mice. Daily dosing of gemcitabine to pregnant mice increased the incidence of fetal malformation (cleft palate, incomplete ossification) at doses of 1.5 mg/kg/day [approximately 0.005 times the 1,000 mg/m2 clinical dose based on body surface area (BSA)]. Gemcitabine was embryotoxic and fetotoxic in rabbits. Daily dosing of gemcitabine to pregnant rabbits resulted in fetotoxicity (decreased fetal viability, reduced litter sizes, and developmental delays) and increased the incidence of fetal malformations (fused pulmonary artery, absence of gall bladder) at doses of 0.1 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.002 times the 1,000 mg/m2 clinical dose based on BSA).

    8.2 Lactation



    Risk Summary

    There is no information regarding the presence of gemcitabine or its metabolites in human milk, or their effects on the breastfed infant or on milk production. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from gemcitabine, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with gemcitabine and for at least one week following the last dose.

    8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential



    Pregnancy Testing

    Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating gemcitabine [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].


    Contraception

    Gemcitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].


    Females

    Because of the potential for genotoxicity, advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 6 months after the final dose of gemcitabine.


    Males

    Because of the potential for genotoxicity, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 3 months after the final dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].


    Infertility


    Males

    Based on animal studies, gemcitabine may impair fertility in males of reproductive potential [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible.

    8.4 Pediatric Use


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

    The safety and pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine were evaluated in a trial in pediatric patients with refractory leukemia. The maximum tolerated dose was 10 mg/m2/min for 360 minutes weekly for three weeks followed by a one-week rest period.

    The safety and activity of gemcitabine were evaluated in a trial of pediatric patients with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (22 patients) and acute myelogenous leukemia (10 patients) at a dose of 10 mg/m2/min administered over 360 minutes weekly for three weeks followed by a one-week rest period. Patients with M1 or M2 bone marrow on Day 28 who did not experience unacceptable toxicity were eligible to receive a maximum of one additional four-week course. Toxicities observed included myelosuppression, febrile neutropenia, increased serum transaminases, nausea, and rash/desquamation. No meaningful clinical activity was observed in this trial.

    8.5 Geriatric Use


    In clinical studies which enrolled 979 patients with various malignancies who received single agent gemcitabine, no overall differences in safety were observed between patients aged 65 and older and younger patients, with the exception of a higher rate of Grade 3–4 thrombocytopenia in older patients as compared to younger patients.

    In a randomized trial in women with ovarian cancer (Study 1), 175 women received gemcitabine with carboplatin, of which 29% were age 65 years or older. Similar effectiveness was observed between older and younger women. There was significantly higher Grade 3–4 neutropenia in women 65 years of age or older [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

    Gemcitabine clearance is affected by age; however, there are no recommended dose adjustments based on patients' age [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

    8.6Gender


    Gemcitabine clearance is decreased in females [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In single agent studies of gemcitabine, women, especially older women, were more likely not to proceed to a subsequent cycle and to experience Grade 3–4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4)].

    10 Overdosage


    There is no known antidote for overdoses of gemcitabine. Myelosuppression, paresthesias, and severe rash were the principal toxicities seen when a single dose as high as 5,700 mg/m2 was administered by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes every 2 weeks to several patients in a dose-escalation study. In the event of suspected overdose, monitor with appropriate blood counts and provide supportive therapy, as necessary.

    11 Description


    Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. Gemcitabine hydrochloride is 2´-deoxy-2´,2´-difluorocytidine monohydrochloride (β-isomer) with the following structural formula:

    The empirical formula for gemcitabine hydrochloride is C9H11F2N3O4 ∙ HCl. It has a molecular weight of 299.66 g/mol.

    Gemcitabine hydrochloride is soluble in water, slightly soluble in methanol, and practically insoluble in ethanol and polar organic solvents.

    Gemcitabine hydrochloride is a sterile white to off-white lyophilized powder and available as 2 g single-dose vials for intravenous use only. Each 2 g vial contains 2 g of gemcitabine hydrochloride (expressed as free base), 2 g mannitol, and 125 mg sodium acetate. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may have been added for pH adjustment.

    12 Clinical Pharmacology


    12.1 Mechanism of Action


    Gemcitabine kills cells undergoing DNA synthesis and blocks the progression of cells through the G1/S-phase boundary. Gemcitabine is metabolized by nucleoside kinases to diphosphate (dFdCDP) and triphosphate (dFdCTP) nucleosides. Gemcitabine diphosphate inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme responsible for catalyzing the reactions that generate deoxynucleoside triphosphates for DNA synthesis, resulting in reductions in deoxynucleotide concentrations, including dCTP. Gemcitabine triphosphate competes with dCTP for incorporation into DNA. The reduction in the intracellular concentration of dCTP by the action of the diphosphate enhances the incorporation of gemcitabine triphosphate into DNA (self-potentiation). After the gemcitabine nucleotide is incorporated into DNA, only one additional nucleotide is added to the growing DNA strands, which eventually results in the initiation of apoptotic cell death.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics


    The pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine were examined in 353 patients with various solid tumors. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived using data from patients treated for varying durations of therapy given weekly with periodic rest weeks and using both short infusions (<70 minutes) and long infusions (70 to 285 minutes). The total gemcitabine dose varied from 500 mg/m2 to 3,600 mg/m2.


    Distribution

    The volume of distribution was increased with infusion length. Volume of distribution of gemcitabine was 50 L/m2 following infusions lasting <70 minutes. For long infusions, the volume of distribution rose to 370 L/m2.

    Gemcitabine pharmacokinetics are linear and are described by a 2-compartment model. Population pharmacokinetic analyses of combined single and multiple dose studies showed that the volume of distribution of gemcitabine was significantly influenced by duration of infusion and sex. Gemcitabine plasma protein binding is negligible.


    Elimination


    Metabolism

    The active metabolite, gemcitabine triphosphate, can be extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The half-life of the terminal phase for gemcitabine triphosphate from mononuclear cells ranges from 1.7 to 19.4 hours.


    Excretion

    Gemcitabine disposition was studied in 5 patients who received a single 1,000 mg/m2 of radiolabeled drug as a 30-minute infusion. Within one week, 92% to 98% of the dose was recovered, almost entirely in the urine. Gemcitabine (<10%) and the inactive uracil metabolite, 2´-deoxy-2´,2´-difluorouridine (dFdU) accounted for 99% of the excreted dose. The metabolite dFdU is also found in plasma.


    Specific Populations


    Geriatric Patients

    Clearance of gemcitabine was affected by age. The lower clearance in geriatric patients results in higher concentrations of gemcitabine for any given dose. Differences in either clearance or volume of distribution based on patient characteristics or the duration of infusion result in changes in half-life and plasma concentrations. Table 15 shows plasma clearance and half-life of gemcitabine following short infusions for typical patients by age and sex.
    Table 15: Gemcitabine Clearance and Half-Life for the "Typical" Patient
    Age Clearance Men (L/hr/m2) Clearance Women (L/hr/m2) Half-Life Half-life for patients receiving a <70 minute infusion. Men (min) Half-Life Women (min)

    29
    92.2
    69.4
    42
    49

    45
    75.7
    57.0
    48
    57

    65
    55.1
    41.5
    61
    73

    79
    40.7
    30.7
    79
    94

    Gemcitabine half-life for short infusions ranged from 42 to 94 minutes and for long infusions varied from 245 to 638 minutes, depending on age and sex, reflecting a greatly increased volume of distribution with longer infusions.


    Male and Female Patients

    Females have lower clearance and longer half-lives than male patients as described in Table 15.


    Patients with Renal Impairment

    No clinical studies have been conducted with gemcitabine in patients with decreased renal function.


    Patients with Hepatic Impairment

    No clinical studies have been conducted with gemcitabine in patients with decreased hepatic function.


    Drug Interaction Studies

    When gemcitabine (1,250 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8) and cisplatin (75 mg/m2 on Day 1) were administered in patients with NSCLC, the clearance of gemcitabine on Day 1 was 128 L/hr/m2 and on Day 8 was 107 L/hr/m2. Data from patients with NSCLC demonstrate that gemcitabine and carboplatin given in combination does not alter the pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine or carboplatin compared to administration of either single agent; however, due to wide confidence intervals and small sample size, interpatient variability may be observed.

    Data from metastatic breast cancer patients shows that gemcitabine has little or no effect on the pharmacokinetics (clearance and half-life) of paclitaxel and paclitaxel has little or no effect on the pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine.

    13 Nonclinical Toxicology


    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility


    Long-term animal studies to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of gemcitabine have not been conducted. Gemcitabine was mutagenic in an in vitro mouse lymphoma (L5178Y) assay and was clastogenic in an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. Gemcitabine intraperitoneal doses of 0.5 mg/kg/day [about 1/700 the 1,000 mg/m2 clinical dose based on body surface area (BSA)] in male mice resulted in moderate to severe hypospermatogenesis, decreased fertility, and decreased implantations. In female mice, fertility was not affected but maternal toxicities were observed at 1.5 mg/kg/day administered intravenously (about 1/200 the 1,000 mg/m2 clinical dose based on BSA) and fetotoxicity or embryolethality was observed at 0.25 mg/kg/day administered intravenously (about 1/1,300 the 1,000 mg/m2 clinical dose based on BSA).

    14 Clinical Studies


    14.1Ovarian Cancer


    The efficacy of gemcitabine was evaluated in a randomized trial (Study 1) conducted in women with advanced ovarian cancer that had relapsed at least 6 months after first-line platinum-based therapy. Patients were randomized to receive either gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle with carboplatin AUC 4 on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration (n=178) or carboplatin AUC 5 on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle (n=178). The major efficacy outcome measure was progression-free survival (PFS).

    A total of 356 patients were enrolled. Demographics and baseline characteristics are shown in Table 16.

    Efficacy results are presented in Table 17 and Figure 1. The addition of gemcitabine to carboplatin resulted in statistically significant improvements in PFS and overall response rate. Approximately 75% of patients in each arm received additional chemotherapy for disease progression; 13 of 120 patients in the carboplatin alone arm received gemcitabine for treatment of disease progression. There was no significant difference in overall survival between the treatment arms.
    Table 16: Baseline Demographics and Clinical Characteristics for Study 1
    Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N=178) Carboplatin (N=178)

    Median age, years
    59
    58

      Range
    36 to 178
    21 to 81

    Baseline ECOG performance status 0–15 patients on gemcitabine with carboplatin arm and 4 patients on carboplatin arm had no baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status.

    94%
    95%

    Disease Status

      Evaluable
    8%
    3%

      Bidimensionally measurable
    92%
    96%

    Platinum-free interval2 patients on gemcitabine with carboplatin arm and 1 patient on carboplatin arm had platinum-free interval <6 months.

      6–12 months
    40%
    40%

      >12 months
    59%
    60%

    First-line therapy

      Platinum-taxane combination
    70%
    71%

      Platinum-non-taxane combination
    29%
    28%

      Platinum monotherapy
    1%
    1%
    Table 17: Efficacy Results in Study 1
    Efficacy Parameter Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N=178) Carboplatin (N=178)

    Progression-Free Survival

    Median (95% CICI=confidence interval.) in months
    8.6 (8.0, 9.7)
    5.8 (5.2, 7.1)

      Hazard Ratio (95% CI)
    0.72 (0.57, 0.90)

      p-valueLog rank, unadjusted.

    p=0.0038

      Overall Survival

    Median (95% CI) in months
    18.0 (16.2, 20.3)
    17.3 (15.2, 19.3)

      Hazard Ratio (95% CI)
    0.98 (0.78, 1.24)

      p-value

    p=0.8977

    Overall Response Rate by Investigator Review

    47.2%
    30.9%

      p-valueChi square.

    p=0.0016

      CRCR=Complete response.

    14.6%
    6.2%

      PR with PRNMPR with PRNM=Partial response with partial response, non-measurable disease.

    32.6%
    24.7%

    Overall Response Rate Independently reviewed cohort - gemcitabine/carboplatin (n=121), carboplatin (n=101); independent reviewers unable to measure disease detected by sonography or physical exam. by Independent Review

    46.3%
    35.6%

      p-value

    p=0.11

      CR

    9.1%
    4.0%

      PR with PRNM

    37.2%
    31.7%

    Figure 1: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Progression-Free Survival in Study 1

    14.2Breast Cancer


    The efficacy of gemcitabine was evaluated in a multinational, randomized, open-label trial (Study 2) conducted in women receiving initial treatment for metastatic breast cancer and who have received prior adjuvant/neoadjuvant anthracycline chemotherapy unless clinically contraindicated. Patients were randomized to receive either gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 administered on Day 1 before gemcitabine administration (n=267) or paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle (n=262). The major efficacy outcome measure was time to documented disease progression.

    A total of 529 patients were enrolled. Demographic and baseline characteristics were similar between treatment arms (Table 18).

    Efficacy results are presented in Table 19 and Figure 2. The addition of gemcitabine to paclitaxel resulted in statistically significant improvement in time to documented disease progression and overall response rate compared to paclitaxel alone. There was no significant difference in overall survival.
    Table 18: Baseline Demographics and Clinical Characteristics for Study 2
    Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N=267) Paclitaxel (N=262)

    Median age (years)
    53
    52

      Range
    26 to 83
    26 to 75

    Metastatic disease
    97%
    97%

    Baseline KPS Karnofsky Performance Status. ≥90
    70%
    74%

    Number of tumor sites

        1–2
    57%
    59%

        ≥3
    43%
    41%

    Visceral disease
    73%
    73%

    Prior anthracycline
    97%
    96%
    Table 19: Efficacy Results in Study 2
    Efficacy Parameter Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N=267) Paclitaxel (N=262)

    Time to Documented Disease Progression These represent reconciliation of investigator and Independent Review Committee assessments according to a predefined algorthm.

    Median (95% CI) in months
    5.2 (4.2, 5.6)
    2.9 (2.6, 3.7)

        Hazard Ratio (95% CI)
    0.650 (0.524, 0.805)

        p-value
    p<0.0001

    Overall Survival Based on the ITT population.

        Median (95% CI) in months
    18.6(16.5, 20.7)
    15.8 (14.1, 17.3)

        Hazard Ratio (95% CI)
    0.86 (0.71, 1.04)

        p-value
    Not Significant

    Overall Response Rate

    40.8%
    22.1%

        (95% CI)
    (34.9, 46.7)
    (17.1, 27.2)

        p-value
    p<0.0001

    Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Time to Documented Disease Progression in Study 2

    14.3Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer


    The efficacy of gemcitabine was evaluated in two randomized, multicenter trials.


    Study 3: 28-Day Schedule

    A multinational, randomized trial (Study 3) compared gemcitabine with cisplatin to cisplatin alone in the treatment of patients with inoperable Stage IIIA, IIIB, or IV NSCLC who had not received prior chemotherapy. Patients were randomized to receive either gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle with cisplatin 100 mg/m2 on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration (N=260) or cisplatin 100 mg/m2 on Day 1 of each 28-day cycle (N=262). The major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.

    A total of 522 patients were enrolled. Demographics and baseline characteristics (Table 20) were similar between arms with the exception of histologic subtype of NSCLC, with 48% of patients on the cisplatin arm and 37% of patients on the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm having adenocarcinoma.

    Efficacy results are presented in Table 21 and Figure 3.


    Study 4: 21-Day Schedule

    A randomized (1:1), multicenter trial (Study 4) was conducted in patients with Stage IIIB or IV NSCLC. Patients were randomized to receive either gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle with cisplatin 100 mg/m2 on Day 1 after gemcitabine administration or etoposide 100 mg/m2 intravenously on Days 1, 2, and 3 with cisplatin 100 mg/m2 on Day 1 of each 21 -day cycle. The major efficacy outcome measure was response rate.

    A total of 135 patients were enrolled. Demographics and baseline characteristics are summarized in Table 20.

    Efficacy results are presented in Table 21. There was no significant difference in survival between the two treatment arms. The median survival was 8.7 months for the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm versus 7 months for the etoposide with cisplatin arm. Median time to disease progression for the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm was 5 months compared to 4.1 months on the etoposide with cisplatin arm (Log rank p=0.015, two-sided). The objective response rate for the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm was 33% compared to 14% on the etoposide with cisplatin arm (Fisher's Exact p=0.01, two-sided).
    Table 20: Baseline Demographics and Clinical Characteristics for Studies 3 and 4
    Trial 28-day Schedule (Study 3) 21-day Schedule (Study 4)
    Gemcitabine/Cisplatin (N=260) Cisplatin (N=262) Gemcitabine/Cisplatin (N=69) Etoposide/ Cisplatin (N=66)

    Male
    70%
    71%
    93%
    92%

    Median age, years
    62
    63
    58
    60

    Range
    36 to 88
    35 to 79
    33 to 76
    35 to 75

    Stage IIIA
    7%
    7%
    N/AN/A Not applicable.

    N/A

    Stage IIIB
    26%
    23%
    48%
    52%

    Stage IV
    67%
    70%
    52%
    49%

    Baseline KPSKarnofsky Performance Status. 70 to 80
    41%
    44%
    45%
    52%

    Baseline KPS 90 to 100
    57%
    55%
    55%
    49%
    Table 21: Efficacy Results for Studies 3 and 4
    Trial 28-day Schedule (Study 3) 21-day Schedule (Study 4)
    Efficacy Parameter Gemcitabine/Cisplatin (N=260) Cisplatin (N=262) Gemcitabine/Cisplatin (N=69) Etoposide/Cisplatin (N=66)

    Survival

      Median (95% CICI=confidence intervals.) in months
    9.0 (8.2, 11.0)
    7.6 (6.6, 8.8)
    8.7 (7.8, 10.1)
    7.0 (6.0, 9.7)

      p-valuep-value two-sided Fisher's Exact test for difference in binomial proportions; log rank test for time-to-event analyses.

    p=0.008
    p=0.18

    Time to Disease Progression

      Median in months (95% CI) in months
    5.2 (4.2, 5.7)
    3.7 (3.0, 4.3)
    5.0 (4.2, 6.4)
    4.1 (2.4, 4.5)

      p-value

    p=0.009
    p=0.015

    Tumor Response

    26%
    10%
    33%
    14%

      p-value

    p<0.0001
    p=0.01

    Figure 3: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Overall Survival in Study 3

    14.4Pancreatic Cancer


    The efficacy of gemcitabine was evaluated in two trials (Studies 5 and 6), a randomized, single-blind, two-arm, active-controlled trial (Study 5) conducted in patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer who had received no prior chemotherapy and in a single-arm, open-label, multicenter trial (Study 6) conducted in patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer previously treated with fluorouracil or a fluorouracil-containing regimen. In Study 5, patients were randomized to receive either gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly for 7 weeks followed by a one-week rest, then once weekly for 3 consecutive weeks every 28-days in subsequent cycles (n=63) or fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly (n=63). In Study 6, all patients received gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly for 7 weeks followed by a one-week rest, then once weekly for 3 consecutive weeks every 28-days in subsequent cycles.

    The major efficacy outcome measure in both trials was "clinical benefit response". A patient was considered to have had a clinical benefit response if either of the following occurred:
    • •The patient achieved a ≥50% reduction in pain intensity (Memorial Pain Assessment Card) or analgesic consumption, or a 20-point or greater improvement in performance status (Karnofsky Performance Status) for a period of at least 4 consecutive weeks, without showing any sustained worsening in any of the other parameters. Sustained worsening was defined as 4 consecutive weeks with either any increase in pain intensity or analgesic consumption or a 20-point decrease in performance status occurring during the first 12 weeks of therapy.OR
    • •The patient was stable on all of the aforementioned parameters and showed a marked, sustained weight gain (≥7% increase maintained for ≥4 weeks) not due to fluid accumulation.

    Study 5 enrolled 126 patients. Demographics and baseline characteristics were similar between the arms (Table 22).

    The efficacy results are shown in Table 23 and Figure 4. Patients treated with gemcitabine had statistically significant increases in clinical benefit response, survival, and time to disease progression compared to those randomized to receive fluorouracil. No confirmed objective tumor responses were observed in either treatment arm.
    Table 22: Baseline Demographics and Clinical Characteristics for Study 5
    Gemcitabine (N=63) Fluorouracil (N=63)

      Male
    54%
    54%61

    Median age, years
    62
    61

      Range
    37 to 79
    36 to 77

    Stage IV disease
    71%
    76%

    Baseline KPSKarnofsky Performance Status. ≤70
    70%
    68%
    Table 23: Efficacy Results in Study 5
    Efficacy Parameter Gemcitabine (N=63) Fluorouracil (N=63)

    Clinical Benefit Response

    22.2%
    4.8%

      p-valuep-value for clinical benefit response calculated using the two-sided test for difference in binomial proportions. All other p-values are calculated using log rank test.

    p=0.004

    Overall Survival   Median (95% CI) in months
    5.7 (4.7, 6.9)
    4.2 (3.1, 5.1)

      p-value

    p=0.0009

    Time to Disease Progression   Median (95% CI) in months
    2.1 (1.9, 3.4)
    0.9 (0.9, 1.1)

      p-value

    p=0.0013

    Figure 4: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Overall Survival in Study 5

    15 References


    1. “OSHA Hazardous Drugs.” OSHA. https://www.osha.gov/hazardous-drugs

    16 How Supplied/storage And Handling


    Gemcitabine for injection, USP is available is a sterile white to off-white lyophilized powder available in single-dose vials individually packaged in a carton containing 2 g gemcitabine:
    • •2 g vial - NDC 0409-0187-01

    Gemcitabine is a cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1

    STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION


    Store at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

    17 Patient Counseling Information



    Myelosuppression

    Advise patients of the risks of myelosuppression. Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider should any signs or symptoms of infection, including fever, or if bleeding or signs of anemia, occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

    Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs)

    Advise patients of the risks of SCARs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider should any signs or symptoms of severe skin rash or skin peeling, bulering and/or mouth sores occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].


    Pulmonary Toxicity

    Advise patients of the risks of pulmonary toxicity, including respiratory failure and death. Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider for development of shortness of breath, wheezing, or cough [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ].


    Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and Renal Failure

    Advise patients of the risks of hemolytic uremic syndrome and associated renal failure. Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider for changes in the color or volume of urine output or for increased bruising or bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ].


    Hepatic Toxicity

    Advise patients of the risks of hepatic toxicity including liver failure and death. Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider for signs of jaundice or for pain/tenderness in the right upper abdominal quadrant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ].


    Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

    Advise females and males of reproductive potential that gemcitabine can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 6 months after the final dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with gemcitabine and for 3 months after the final dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].


    Lactation

    Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with gemcitabine and for at least one week after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].


    Infertility

    Advise males of reproductive potential of the potential for reduced fertility with gemcitabine [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].


    Distributed by Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA

    LAB-0919-5.0

    Principal Display Panel - 2 G Vial Label


    2 g Single-dose VialNDC 0409-0187-01

    SterileRx only
    •   Gemcitabine forInjection, USP
    •   2 g/vial
    •   (lyophilized)For Intravenous Use OnlyCaution: Cytotoxic Agent

    Principal Display Panel - 2 G Vial Carton

    •   VIAL
    •   Hospira

    1 x 2 g VialNDC 0409-0187-01

    SterileRx only
    •   Gemcitabine forInjection, USP
    •   2 g/vial
    •   (lyophilized)
    •   For Intravenous Use Only

    DO NOT REFRIGERATE

    Single-dose Vial
    •   Caution: Cytotoxic Agent

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