Katya 30/75 coated tablets – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) for healthcare professionals

1 NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

Katya 30/75 coated tablets

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION

Active ingredients:

Katya 30/75 coated tablets: Each tablet contains 30 micrograms ethinylestradiol and 75 micrograms gestodene

Excipients:

Katya 30/75 coated tablets contain 38 mg lactose monohydrate and 20 mg sucrose

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1.

3 PHARMACEUTICAL FORM

Coated tablet.

White, round, biconvex sugar coated tablets, both sides are without imprinting.

4 CLINICAL PARTICULARS

4.1 Therapeutic indications

Oral contraception and the recognised gynaecological indications for such oestrogen-progestogen combinations.

The decision to prescribe Katya 30/75 coated tablets should take into consideration the individual woman’s current risk factors, particularly those for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and how the risk of VTE with Katya 30/75 coated tablets compares with other Combined Hormonal Contraceptives, CHCs (see sections 4.3 and 4.4).

4.2 Posology and method of administration

How to take Katya 30/75 coated tablets

The tablets should be taken in the order indicated on the package, every day at approximately the same time. One tablet per day should be taken for 21 days. Each subsequent pack should be started after a 7-day tablet-free interval during which time a withdrawal bleeding will occur. This bleeding usually starts on the 2^nd or 3^rd day after taking the last tablet, and may not stop until the next pack is started.

How to start taking Katya 30/75 coated tablets

If no preceding hormonal contraceptive use in the past month

Taking of the tablets should begin on the first day of the woman’s natural cycle (i.e. on the first day of the woman’s menstrual bleeding). One may begin taking the pills on day 2-5, but in these cases, it is recommended that a barrier method also be used for the first 7 days on which pills are taken during the first cycle.

When replacing another contraceptive pill of the combination type (COC), vaginal ring or transdermal patch

The woman should start taking Katya 30/75 coated tablets on the next day after taking the last active tablet in her previous package of contraceptive pills – but no later than the day after the usual tablet-free or placebo-tablet period of her previous contraceptive pill. In case a vaginal ring or transdermal patch has been used, the woman

should preferably start taking Katya 30/75 coated tablets one day before scheduled removal of the ring or patch,

or at the latest, when the next application would have been due.

When changing from progestogen-only preparations (progestogen-only pills, injection, implant, or from a progestogen-releasing intrauterine system (IUS))

The woman may change from progestogen-only pills (POPs) on any day. The first tablet should be taken on the day after any tablet of the POP package. When changing from an implant or the IUS, Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be started on the day the implant is removed. When changing from injections, Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be started when the next injection is due to be given. In all these cases, the woman is advised to also use a barrier method for the first 7 days of taking the pills.

After an abortion in the first trimester

The woman may start taking the pills immediately. If she does so, no further contraceptive steps need be taken.

After delivery or abortion in the second trimester

For breastfeeding women - see section 4.6.

The woman should be advised to begin taking the tablets on day 21- 28 after delivery in non-lactating women or after abortion in the second trimester. If she starts later, she should be advised to also use a barrier method during the first 7 days of taking the pills. If she has already had intercourse, the possibility of pregnancy should be excluded before she begins taking the pills, or she should wait for her first menstruation.

Missed tablets

Missing a tablet for less than 12 hours does not diminish the contraceptive protection. The woman should take the tablet as soon as she remembers, and continue taking the rest of the tablets as usual.

Missing a tablet for more than 12 hours can diminish the contraceptive protection. The two following rules may be helpful in dealing with missed tablets.

1. 1. Taking of the tablets should never be discontinued for longer than 7 days.
2. 2. It takes 7 days of uninterrupted ingestion of the tablets to achieve sufficient suppression of the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis.

Thus, the following advice can be given in daily practice:

Week 1

The user should take the last missed tablet as soon as she remembers, even if this means that she needs to take 2 tablets at the same time. From then on, she should continue to take the tablets at the usual time. At the same time, she should use a barrier method, i.e. a condom, for the next 7 days. If she had intercourse during the past 7 days, she should consider the possibility that she might be pregnant. The more tablets have been missed, and the closer this happened to the monthly tablet-free period, the higher the risk of pregnancy.

Week 2

The user should take the last missed tablet as soon as she remembers, even if this means that she needs to take 2 tablets at the same time. From then on, she should continue to take the tablets at the usual time. If the tablets have been taken correctly for the 7 days prior to the missed tablet, it is not necessary to take any additional contraceptive precautions. If this is not the case, however, or if more than 1 tablet has been missed, the woman should use a barrier method, i.e. a condom for the next 7 days.

Week 3

The risk of reduced protection is imminent because of the approaching tablet-free period. The reduced contraceptive protection can be prevented, however, by adjusting the intake of the tablets. By adhering to either of the following two options, it is, therefore, not necessary to take any additional contraceptive precautions, provided that the tablets have been taken correctly for the 7 days prior to the missed tablet. If this is not the case, the woman should be advised to follow the first of the two choices, and at the same time use a barrier method, i.e. a condom for the next 7 days.

1. 1. The user should take the last missed tablet as soon as she remembers even if this means that she needs to take 2 tablets at the same time. From then on, she should continue to take the tablets at the usual time. She begins the next pack immediately after she took the last tablet from the current package; that means no pause between packages. The user will probably not get her menstruation before the end of the second package, but she may experience spotting or withdrawal bleeding on the days when she takes the tablets.
2. 2. The woman can also be advised to stop taking tablets from the current package. In that case, she should have a tablet-free period for up to 7 days, including the days when she missed the tablets, and subsequently continue with the next pack.

If the woman missed the tablets, and subsequently did not get her menstruation in the first normal tablet-free period, she should consider the possibility that she may be pregnant.

What to do in case of vomiting/diarrhoea

If vomiting occurs within 3-4 hours after tablet taking, absorption may not be complete. In this case, the advice concerning missed tablets, described above should be followed. Unless Diarrhoea is extremely severe it does not affect the absorption of combined oral contraceptives and therefore use of additional contraception is not necessary. If severe diarrhoea continues for 2 or more days, the procedures for missed pills should be followed. If the woman does not want to change her usual tablet intake, she should take an extra tablet(s) from another blister pack.

How to advance or delay menstruation

To delay menstruation, the woman should continue with another pack of Katya 30/75 coated tablets without a tablet-free period. Menstruation can be delayed as long as is desired up to the end of the second package, but no longer. While menstruation is being delayed, the woman may experience withdrawal bleeding or spotting. Regular intake of Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be resumed after the normal tablet-free period of 7 days.

To move menstruation to another day of the week than the woman is used to with her current tablet schedule, she can be advised to shorten the next tablet-free period by as many days as she wishes. The shorter the interval, the higher the risk that she will not get her menstruation and will have breakthrough bleeding or spotting while she is taking the next pack (just as when menstruation is being delayed).

Special populations

Paediatric population

Katya 30/75 coated tablets is only indicated after menarche.

Elderly population

Katya 30/75 coated tablets is contraindicated after menopause.

Patients with hepatic impairment

Katya 30/75 coated tablets is contraindicated in women with severe liver impairment (see section 4.3).

Patients with renal impairment

Katya 30/75 coated tablets has not been specifically studied in patients with impaired renal function. No data are available.

4.3 Contraindications

Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) should not be used in the following conditions. If such a condition should occur for the first time during use of CHCs, the use must be discontinued immediately:

• Hypersensitivity to the active substances or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1

• Presence or risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE)

  o Venous thromboembolism – current VTE (on anticoagulants) or history of (e.g. deep venous thrombosis [DVT] or pulmonary embolism [PE])

  o Known hereditary or acquired predisposition for venous

  thromboembolism, such as APC- resistance, (including Factor V Leiden), antithrombin-III-deficiency, protein C deficiency, protein S deficiency

  o Major surgery with prolonged immobilisation (see section 4.4)

  o A high risk of venous thromboembolism due to the presence of multiple risk factors (see section 4.4)

• Presence or risk of arterial thromboembolism (ATE)

  o Arterial thromboembolism – current arterial thromboembolism, history of arterial thromboembolism (e.g. myocardial infarction) or prodromal condition (e.g. angina pectoris)

  o Cerebrovascular disease – current stroke, history of stroke or prodromal condition (e.g. transient ischaemic attack, TIA)

  o Known hereditary or acquired predisposition for arterial thromboembolism, such as hyperhomocysteinaemia and antiphospholipid-antibodies (anticardiolipin-antibodies, lupus anticoagulant).

  o History of migraine with focal neurological symptoms.

  o Elevated risk of arterial thromboembolism due to multiple risk factors (see section 4.4) or to the presence of one serious risk factor such as:

  • diabetes mellitus with vascular symptoms
  • severe hypertension
  • severe dyslipoproteinaemia
• Presence or history of severe hepatic disorders, as long as liver function tests are not normalised
• Known or suspected sex-steroid influenced malignancies (e.g. of the genital organs or the breast)
• Presence or history of severe hepatic disorders, as long as liver function tests are not normalised
• Presence or history of benign or malignant liver tumours
• Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding

Katya 30/75 is contraindicated for concomitant use with the medicinal products containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir (see section 4.5).

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

If any of the conditions or risk factors mentioned below are present, the suitability of Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be discussed with the woman.

In the event of aggravation, or first appearance of any of these conditions or risk factors, the woman should be advised to contact her doctor to determine whether the use of Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be discontinued.

Risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE)

The use of any combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) compared with no use. Products that contain levonorgestrel, norgestimate or norethisterone are associated with the lowest risk of VTE. Other products such as Katya 30/75 coated tablets may have up to twice this level of risk. The decision to use any product other than one with the lowest VTE risk should be taken only after a discussion with the woman to ensure she understands the risk of VTE with Katya 30/75 coated tablets, how her current risk factors influence this risk, and that her VTE risk is highest in the first ever year of use. There is also some evidence that the risk is increased when a CHC is re-started after a break in use of 4 weeks or more.

In women who do not use a CHC and are not pregnant about 2 out of 10,000 will develop a VTE over the period of one year. However, in any individual woman the risk may be far higher, depending on her underlying risk factors (see below).

It is estimated¹ that out of 10,000 women who use a CHC containing gestodene between 9 and 12 women will develop a VTE in one year; this compares with

¹ These incidences were estimated from the totality of the epidemiological study data, using relative risks for the different products compared with levonorgestrel-containing CHCs.

about 6² in women who use a levonorgestrel-containing CHC.

In both cases, the number of VTEs per year is fewer than the number expected during pregnancy or in the postpartum period.

VTE may be fatal in 1-2% of cases.

² Mid-point of range of 5-7 per 10,000 WY, based on a relative risk for CHCs containing levonorgestrel versus non-use of approximately 2.3 to 3.6

Number of VTE events per 10,000 women in one year

Extremely rarely, thrombosis has been reported to occur in CHC users in other blood vessels, e.g. hepatic, mesenteric, renal or retinal veins and arteries.

Risk factors for VTE

The risk for venous thromboembolic complications in CHC users may increase substantially in a woman with additional risk factors, particularly if there are multiple risk factors (see table).

Katya 30/75 coated tablets are contraindicated if a woman has multiple risk factors that put her at high risk of venous thrombosis (see section 4.3). If a woman has more than one risk factor, it is possible that the increase in risk is greater than the sum of the individual factors – in this case her total risk of VTE should be considered. If the balance of benefits and risks is considered to be negative a CHC should not be prescribed (see section 4.3).

Table: Risk factors for VTE

There is no consensus about the possible role of varicose veins and superficial thrombophlebitis in the onset or progression of venous thrombosis.

The increased risk of thromboembolism in pregnancy, and particularly the 6-week period of the puerperium, must be considered (for information on “Pregnancy and lactation” see section 4.6).

Symptoms of VTE (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)

In the event of symptoms women should be advised to seek urgent medical attention and to inform the healthcare professional that she is taking a CHC.

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can include:

• unilateral swelling of the leg and/or foot or along a vein in the leg;
• pain or tenderness in the leg which may be felt only when standing or walking,
• increased warmth in the affected leg; red or

discoloured skin on the leg.

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE) can include:

• sudden onset of unexplained shortness of breath or rapid breathing;
• sudden coughing which may be associated with haemoptysis;
• sharp chest pain;
• severe light headedness or dizziness;
• rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Some of these symptoms (e.g. “shortness of breath”, “coughing”) are non-specific and might be misinterpreted as more common or less severe events (e.g. respiratory tract infections).

Other signs of vascular occlusion can include: sudden pain, swelling and slight blue discoloration of an extremity.

If the occlusion occurs in the eye symptoms can range from painless blurring of vision which can progress to loss of vision. Sometimes loss of vision can occur almost immediately.

Risk of arterial thromboembolism (ATE)

Epidemiological studies have associated the use of CHCs with an increased risk for arterial thromboembolism (myocardial infarction) or for cerebrovascular accident (e.g. transient ischaemic attack, stroke). Arterial thromboembolic events may be fatal.

Risk factors for ATE

The risk of arterial thromboembolic complications or of a cerebrovascular accident in CHC users increases in women with risk factors (see table). Katya 30/75 coated tablets are contraindicated if a woman has one serious or multiple risk factors for ATE that puts her at high risk of arterial thrombosis (see section 4.3). If a woman has more than one risk factor, it is possible that the increase in risk is greater than the sum of the individual factors - in this case her total risk should be considered. If the balance of benefits and risks is considered to be negative a CHC should not be prescribed (see section 4.3).

Table: Risk factors for ATE

Symptoms of ATE

In the event of symptoms women should be advised to seek urgent medical attention and to inform the healthcare professional that she is taking a CHCs.

Symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident can include:

• sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body;
• sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination;
• sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding;
• sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes;
• sudden, severe or prolonged headache with no known cause;
• loss of consciousness or fainting with or without seizure.

Temporary symptoms suggest the event is a transient

ischaemic attack (TIA).

Symptoms of myocardial infarction (MI) can include:

• pain, discomfort, pressure, heaviness, sensation of squeezing or fullness in the chest, arm, or below the breastbone;
• discomfort radiating to the back, jaw, throat, arm, stomach;
• feeling of being full, having indigestion or choking;
• sweating, nausea, vomiting or dizziness;
• extreme weakness, anxiety, or shortness of breath;
• rapid or irregular heartbeats.

Tumours:

Cervical cancer

In some epidemiological studies an increased risk of cervical cancer has been reported in long term users of COCs, but it is still not clear to which extent this finding may be influenced by impacts of sexual behaviour and other factors, such as human papilloma virus (HPV).

Breast cancer

A meta-analysis from 54 epidemiological studies reported that there is a slightly increased relative risk (RR=1.24) of having breast cancer diagnosed in woman who are currently using COCs. The excess risk gradually disappears during the course of the 10 years after cessation of COC use. Because breast cancer is rare in women below 40 years of age, the excess number of breast cancer diagnoses in current and recent users of COC is small in relation to the overall risk of breast cancer.

These studies do not provide evidence for causation. The observed pattern of increased risk may be due to an earlier diagnosis of breast cancer in COC users, the biological effects of COCs or a combination of both. The breast cancers diagnosed in users tend to be less advanced clinically than the cancers diagnosed in non-users.

Liver tumours

Benign and malignant liver tumours have been reported in users of COCs. These tumours have, in isolated cases, lead to life threatening, intra-abdominal haemorrhage. A liver tumour must be taken into consideration as a differential diagnosis when severe pain occurs in the upper abdomen, if there is hepatomegaly, or if there are signs of intra-abdominal haemorrhage in women taking COCs.

Other conditions

Women with hypertriglyceridaemia, or a family history thereof, may be at increased risk of pancreatitis when taking COCs.

In the case of acute or chronic impairment of liver function, the use of Katya 30/75 coated tablets should be stopped until liver function tests have returned to normal (see section 4.3). Steroid hormones may be poorly metabolised in patients with impaired liver function.

Even though slight increases in blood pressure have been reported in many women taking COCs, clinically important increases in blood pressure are rare. If persistent clinical hypertension develops during COC use, intake should be discontinued and the hypertension treated. Use of COCs may be resumed, if appropriate, when normotensive values are reached with antihypertensive therapy.

It has been reported that the following conditions may occur, or worsen both during pregnancy and during use of COCs, but the evidence of a relationship is inconclusive: Jaundice and/or pruritus in connection with cholestasis; development of gallstones; porphyria; systemic lupus erythematosus; haemolytic uraemic syndrome; Sydenham's chorea; herpes gestationis; loss of hearing due to otosclerosis.

COCs may have an influence on peripheral insulin resistance and glucose tolerance. Therefore, diabetics should be closely monitored during COC use.

Worsening of endogenous depression, of epilepsy (see section 4.5 interactions), of Crohn’s disease and of ulcerative colitis has been reported during COC use.

Depressed mood and depression are well-known undesirable effects of hormonal contraceptive use (see section 4.8). Depression can be serious and is a well-known risk factor for suicidal behaviour and suicide. Women should be advised to contact their physician in case of mood changes and depressive symptoms, including shortly after initiating the treatment.

Chloasma may occur, in particular in women with a medical history of chloasma gravidarum. Women with a tendency to chloasma should avoid exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation while taking COCs.

Herbal preparations containing St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) should not be used while taking Katya 30/75 coated tablets due to the risk of decreased plasma concentrations and reduced clinical effects of Katya 30/75 coated tablets (see section 4.5).

Immune system disorders

Angioedema

Exogenous estrogens may induce or exacerbate symptoms of hereditary and acquired angioedema.

Reduced efficacy

The efficacy of oral contraceptives may be reduced in the case of missed tablets, severe diarrhoea or vomiting (see section 4.2) or concomitant use of other medicinal products (see section 4.5).

Reduced cycle control

With all combined oral contraceptives, irregular bleeding (spotting or break through bleeding) may occur, especially during the first months. Hence, the evaluation of any irregular bleeding should be considered after a period of adaptation of approximately 3 cycles.

If bleeding irregularities persist COCs with a higher hormonal content may need to be considered. If bleeding irregularities occur after previously regular cycles, then non-hormonal causes should be considered, and adequate diagnostic measures are indicated to exclude malignancy or pregnancy.

Occasionally withdrawal bleeding during the tablet-free interval may not occur at all. If the tablets have been taken according to the instructions described in section 4.2, it is unlikely that the woman is pregnant. However, if the tablets have not been taken according to the instructions, before the first absent withdrawal bleeding, or if two withdrawal bleedings are overdue, pregnancy should be excluded before COC use is continued.

Medical examination/consultation

Prior to the initiation or reinstitution of Katya 30/75 coated tablets a complete medical history (including family history) should be taken and pregnancy must be ruled out. Blood pressure should be measured and a physical examination should be performed, guided by the contra-indications (see section 4.3) and warnings (see section 4.4). It is important to draw a woman’s attention to the information on venous and arterial thrombosis, including the risk of Katya 30/75 coated tablets compared with other CHCs, the symptoms of VTE and ATE, the known risk factors and what to do in the event of a suspected thrombosis.

The woman should also be instructed to carefully read the user leaflet and to adhere to the advice given. The frequency and nature of examinations should be based on established practice guidelines and be adapted to the individual woman.

Women should be advised that oral contraceptives do not protect against HIV infections (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Excipients

Katya 30/75 coated tablets contain lactose and sucrose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption or with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicinal product.

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Effect of other medicines on Katya 30/75 coated tablets

Interactions between oral contraceptives and other medicines may result in increased clearance of sex hormones.

Enzyme induction can be observed after a few days of treatment. Peak enzyme induction is usually observed within a few weeks. After discontinuation of drug treatment, enzyme induction can be maintained for approximately 4 weeks.

The following interactions have been described in the literature.

• Medicines that may decrease the effectiveness of COCs

Reduced ethinylestradiol levels may increase the incidence of breakthrough bleeding and menstrual irregularities, and reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.

• By induction of metabolism (cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 3A4)
• Anticonvulsants: hydantoins (phenytoin), barbiturates (phenobarbital), primidone, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, felbamate.
• Antitubercular drugs: rifampicin, rifabutin.
• Others: griseofulvin, modafinil, Hypericum perforatum (St John's-wort). In the case of the latter, the inducing effect may persist for at least 2 weeks after stopping St John's-wort treatment.
• Drugs with variable effects on COC clearance
• When co-administered with COCs, many HIV and hepatitis C virus protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, nelfinavir) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., nevirapine) may increase or decrease plasma concentrations of oestrogens or progestogens. These changes may be clinically relevant in some cases.

During treatment with any of these drugs they should temporarily use a barrier method in addition to Katya 30/75 coated tablets, or choose another method of contraception if these drugs are to be used for prolonged periods of time. The barrier method should be used for the duration of concomitant drug administration and for 28 days after discontinuation.

If the period during which the barrier method is used exceeds the end of the tablets in the Katya 30/75 coated tablets pack, the next pack of Katya 30/75 coated tablets is started without respecting the usual tablet-free interval.

For long-term users of medicinal products that induce liver enzymes, use of other contraceptive measures should be advised.

• Medicines that can increase the serum concentrations of COCs

Enzyme inhibitors (decreased COC clearance)

Potent and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors such as azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole), verapamil, macrolides (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), diltiazem and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of oestrogen, progestogen or both.

Etoricoxib doses of 60-120 mg/day have been shown to increase plasma ethinylestradiol concentrations by 1.4-1.6 times respectively, when taken in conjunction with a combined hormonal contraceptive containing 0.035 mg ethinylestradiol.

Effects of Katya 30/75 coated tablets on other medicines

Ethinylestradiol may interfere with the metabolism of other drugs by inhibition of hepatic microsomal enzymes or by induction of hepatic drug conjugation, particularly glucuronidation. Accordingly, the concentration in plasma and tissues can:

A. Increase

• Cyclosporine: concomitant administration with COCs increases the risk of hepatotoxicity.
• Theophylline.
• Corticosteroids: prednisolone. COCs increase the levels of corticosteroid transporter proteins, increasing the proportion of corticosteroids bound to them, delaying their elimination and lengthening their half-life, with the danger of increasing their toxic effects.

B. Decrease

• Analgesics: ethinylestradiol may reduce the intensity and duration of the analgesic effect of paracetamol.
• Lamotrigine.

In vitro ethinylestradiol is a reversible inhibitor of CYP2C19, CYP1A1 and CYP1A2, as well as a mechanism-based inhibitor of CYP3A4/5, CYP2C8 and CYP2J2. In clinical studies, administration of a hormonal contraceptive with ethinylestradiol resulted in no or a low increase in plasma concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates (e.g., midazolam), while plasma concentrations of CYP1A2 substrates may be weakly (e.g., theophylline) or moderately (e.g., melatonin and tizanidine) increased.

Laboratory tests

The use of contraceptive steroids can influence the results of certain laboratory tests, including the biochemical parameters of liver, thyroid, adrenal, and kidney function; plasma levels of (transport) proteins, such as corticosteroid-binding globulin and lipid/lipoprotein fractions; the parameters of carbohydrate metabolism, and the parameter of coagulation and fibrinolysis. The changes usually remain within the normal test ranges.

Pharmacodynamic interactions

During clinical trials with patients treated for hepatitis C virus infections (HCV) with medicinal products containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin, transaminase (ALT) elevations higher than 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) occurred significantly more frequently in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medications such as combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs). Additionally, also in patients treated with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, ALT elevations were observed in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medications such as CHCs (see section 4.3).

Therefore, Katya 30/75-users must switch to an alternative method of contraception (e.g. progestogen-only contraception or non-hormonal methods) prior to starting therapy with these combination drug regimens. Katya 30/75 can be restarted 2 weeks following completion of the treatment with these combination drug regimens.

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Katya 30/75 coated tablets are not indicated during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs during medication with Katya 30/75 coated tablets, the preparation should be withdrawn immediately.

Extensive epidemiological studies have revealed neither an increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who used COCs prior to pregnancy, nor a teratogenic effect when COCs were taken inadvertently during pregnancy.

Contraceptive steroids can influence breastfeeding, as they can lower the amount and change the composition of breast milk. Small amounts of contraceptive steroids and/or their metabolites can be excreted in the milk. The use of contraceptive steroids should, therefore, generally not be advised to a breastfeeding mother before her child is completely weaned.

The increased risk of VTE during the postpartum period should be considered when re-starting Katya 30/75 coated tablets (see section 4.2 and 4.4).

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Not known.

4.8 Undesirable effects

The most commonly reported adverse reactions are irregular bleeding, nausea, abdominal pain, weight increase, headache, depression, mood changes, breast pain, breast tenderness. They occur in ≥ 1% of users.

Serious adverse reactions include arterial and venous thromboembolism.

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(*) Optic neuritis can lead to complete or partial loss of vision.

(**) Serum folate levels may be decreased by oral contraceptive therapy. This may be of clinical significance in women who become pregnant soon after discontinuing the medicine.

Description of selected adverse reactions

An increased risk of arterial and venous thrombotic and thrombo-embolic events, including myocardial infarction, stroke, transient ischemic attacks, venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism has been observed in women using CHCs, which are discussed in more detail in section 4.4.

Adverse reactions with a very low frequency or delayed onset of symptoms, which are considered to be related to the combined oral contraceptive group, are listed below (see also section 4.3 and 4.4):

Tumours

• The frequency of breast cancer diagnosis among COC users is very slightly increased. Since breast cancer is rare in women under 40, this increase is low in relation to the overall risk of breast cancer. Causality related to COC use is unknown.
• Liver tumours (benign and malignant)

Other abnormalities

• Women with hypertriglyceridaemia (increased risk of pancreatitis with the use of COCs)
• Hypertension
• Occurrence or aggravation of conditions inconclusively associated with COC use: jaundice and/or pruritus related to cholestasis; gallstone formation; porphyria; systemic lupus erythematosus; haemolytic uraemic syndrome; Sydenham's chorea; gestational herpes; hearing loss related to otosclerosis
• In women with hereditary angioedema, exogenous oestrogens may induce or exacerbate angioedema symptoms
• Liver function disorders
• Changes in glucose tolerance or effect on peripheral insulin resistance
• Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis
• Chloasma

Interactions

Interactions between oral contraceptives and other medicines (enzyme inducers) may result in withdrawal bleeding and/or contraceptive failure (see section 4.5).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme. Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard

4.9 Overdose

No serious harmful effects have been reported with overdoses. Symptoms that can arise in connection with

an overdose are: Nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. There is no antidote, and further treatment should be symptomatic.

5 PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: hormonal contraceptives for systemic use ATC code: G03 AA10

Combined oral contraceptives, when taken correctly, have an error rate of about 0.3% per year. The error rate may increase if tablets are missed or taken incorrectly.

The contraceptive effect of contraceptive pills rests on the interaction of various factors, the most important of which are inhibition of ovulation and changes in the endometrium. Along with protecting against pregnancy, COCs have several positive properties which, next to the negative properties (see 4.8 Warnings, Undesirable effects), can be useful in deciding on the method of birth control. The menstrual cycle is more regular and the menstruation is often less painful, and bleeding is lighter. The latter may result in a decrease in the occurrence of iron deficiency.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

Gestodene

Absorption

Gestodene, when taken orally, is absorbed quickly and completely. Following a single dose, the maximum serum concentration of 4 ng/ml is reached in approximately one hour. Bioavailability is approximately 99%.

Distribution

Gestodene is bound to serum albumin and to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Only 1-2% of the total amount of gestodene in serum is found as free steroid, while 50-70% is specifically bound to SHBG. The ethinylestradiol-induced increase in SHBG influences the distribution of serum proteins, which causes an increase of the SHBG-bound fraction, and a decrease of the albumin-bound fraction. The apparent distribution volume of gestodene is 0.7 l/kg.

Metabolism

Gestodene is metabolised completely via the known pathways of steroid metabolism. The metabolic clearance rate from serum is 0.8 ml/min/kg. No interaction occurs when gestodene is taken together with ethinylestradiol.

Elimination

Serum level of gestodene is reduced at 2 rates. The last rate is characterised by a half-life of 12 – 15 hours.

Gestodene is not excreted unchanged. Its metabolites are excreted in urine and in bile at a ratio of 6:4.

The half-life of metabolite excretion is approximately 1 day.

Steady-state

Pharmacokinetics of gestodene is influenced by the levels of SHBG in serum, which increase to triple values with ethinylestradiol. Upon daily intake, the level of gestodene in serum increases till approximately four times the single dose value, and reaches steady-state within the second half of the treatment cycle.

Ethinylestradiol

Absorption

Ethinylestradiol, taken orally, is absorbed quickly and completely. Maximal serum concentration of about 80 pg/ml is reached within 1-2 hours. Complete bioavailability, resulting from pre-systemic conjugation and first-pass metabolism, is approximately 60%.

Distribution

During lactation, 0.02% of the daily maternal dose passes into breast milk. Ethinylestradiol is predominantly bound non-specifically to albumin (approx. 98.5%), and causes increase in serum concentration of SHBG. The apparent distribution volume is found to be approximately 5 l/kg.

Metabolism

Ethinylestradiol undergoes pre-systemic conjugation both in the mucosa of the small intestine, and in the liver. Ethinylestradiol is primarily metabolised by aromatic hydroxylation, but many different hydroxylated and methylated metabolites are formed, and found as free metabolites and as glucuronide and sulphate conjugates. The metabolic clearance rate is approximately 5 ml/min/kg.

Elimination

Serum level of ethinylestradiol is reduced at 2 rates, the last one with a half-life of 24 hours. Unchanged Ethinylestradiol is not excreted, but its metabolites are excreted in urine and in bile at a ratio of 4:6. The half-life of metabolite excretion is approximately 1 day.

Steady-state

Steady-state occurs after 3-4 days, and the serum levels of ethinylestradiol are 30-40% higher than at single dose.

5.3 Preclinical safety data

Ethinylestradiol and gestodene are not genotoxic. Carcinogenicity studies with ethinylestradiol alone or in combination with various progestogens do not indicate any particular carcinogenic hazard to women when used as indicated for contraception. However, it should be noted that sex hormones can advance the growth of certain hormone-dependent tissues and tumours.

Reproductive toxicity studies on fertility, development of the fetus or reproductive ability with ethinylestradiol alone or in combination with progestogens revealed no undesirable effects for humans when used as recommended.

6 PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS

6.1 List of excipients

Tablet core:

Magnesium stearate

Povidone K-25

Maize starch

Lactose monohydrate

Tablet coating:

Povidone K-90

Macrogol 6000

Talc

Calcium carbonate

Sucrose

Wax montan glycol

6.2 Incompatibilities

Not applicable.

6.3 Shelf life

3 years

6.4 Special precautions for storage

Do not store above 30 °C.

6.5 Nature and contents of container

Blister: PVC/aluminium.

Pack sizes: 1 x 21 tablets; 3 x 21 tablets, 6 x 21 tablets

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

6.6 Special precautions for disposal

No special requirements.

7 MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

Stragen UK Ltd

Castle Court

41 London Road

Reigate

Surrey

RH2 9RJ

United Kingdom

8 MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S)

PL 21844/0011

9 DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE

AUTHORISATION

20/04/2012

10 DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT

27/11/2023