VIMIZIM 1 MG / ML CONCENTRATE FOR SOLUTION FOR INFUSION - summary of medicine characteristics

Vimizim 1 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion

2 QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION

Each ml of solution contains 1 mg elosulfase alfa*. Each vial of 5 ml contains 5 mg elosulfase alfa.

*Elosulfase alfa is a recombinant form of human N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase (rhGALNS) and is produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary cell culture by recombinant DNA technology.

Excipients with known effect:

Each 5 ml vial contains 8 mg sodium and 100 mg sorbitol (E420).

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1.

Concentrate for solution for infusion (Sterile concentrate).

A clear to slightly opalescent and colourless to pale yellow solution.

4.1 Therapeutic indications

Vimizim is indicated for the treatment of mucopolysaccha­ridosis, type IVA (Morquio A Syndrome, MPS IVA) in patients of all ages.

4.2 Posology and method of administration

Treatment should be supervised by a physician experienced in the management of patients with MPS IVA or other inherited metabolic diseases. Administration of Vimizim should be carried out by an appropriately trained healthcare professional with the ability to manage medical emergencies. Home administration under the supervision of an appropriately trained healthcare professional may be considered for patients who are tolerating their infusions well.

Posology

The recommended dose of elosulfase alfa is 2 mg/kg of body weight administered once a week. The total volume of the infusion should be delivered over approximately 4 hours (see Table 1).

Because of the potential for hypersensitivity reactions with elosulfase alfa, patients should receive antihistamines with or without antipyretics 30 to 60 minutes prior to start of infusion (see section 4.4).

Special populations

Elderly patients (> 65 years old)

The safety and efficacy of Vimizim in patients older than 65 years has not been established, and no alternative treatment regimen can be recommended in these patients. It is not known whether elderly patients respond differently from younger patients.

Paediatric population

The posology in the paediatric population is the same as in adults. Currently available data are described in section 4.8 and section 5.1.

Method of administration

For intravenous infusion only.

Patients weighing less than 25 kg should receive a total volume of 100 ml. When diluted in 100 ml, the initial infusion rate should be 3 ml/hr. The infusion rate may be increased as tolerated, every 15 minutes as follows: first increase the rate to 6 ml/hr, then increase the rate every 15 minutes by 6 ml/hr increments until a maximum rate of 36 ml/hr is reached.

Patients weighing 25 kg or more should receive a total volume of 250 ml. When diluted in 250 ml, the initial infusion rate should be 6 ml/hr. The infusion rate may be increased as tolerated, every 15 minutes as follows: first increase the rate to 12 ml/hr, then increase the rate every 15 minutes by 12 ml/hr increments until a maximum rate of 72 ml/hr is reached.

*

Table 1: Recommended infusion volumes and rates

Infusion rate may be increased as tolerated by patient.

For instructions for dilution of the medicinal product prior to administration, see section 6.6.

4.3 Contraindications

Life-threatening hypersensitivity (anaphylactic reaction) to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1 (see section 4.4).

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

Traceability

In order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number of the administered product should be clearly recorded.

Anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions

Anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions have been reported in clinical studies. Therefore, appropriate medical support must be readily available when elosulfase alfa is administered. If these reactions occur, immediately stop the infusion and initiate appropriate medical treatment. The current medical standards for emergency treatment are to be followed. For patients who have experienced allergic reactions during infusion, caution should be exercised upon re-administration.

Infusion reactions

Infusion reactions (IRs) were the most commonly observed adverse reactions in clinical studies. IRs may include allergic reactions. Patients should receive antihistamines with or without antipyretics prior to infusion (see section 4.2). Management of IRs should be based on the severity of the reaction and include slowing or temporary interruption of the infusion and/or administration of additional antihistamines, antipyretics, and/or corticosteroids. If severe IRs occur, immediately stop the infusion and initiate appropriate treatment. Re-administration after a severe reaction should be carried out with caution and close monitoring by the treating physician.

Spinal/Cervical cord compression

In clinical studies, spinal/cervical cord compression (SCC) was observed both in patients receiving Vimizim and patients receiving placebo. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of SCC (including back pain, paralysis of limbs below the level of compression, urinary and faecal incontinence) and given appropriate clinical care.

Sodium restricted diet

This medicinal product contains 8 mg sodium per vial, equivalent to 0.4% of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult, and is administered in sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for infusion (see section 6.6).

Sorbitol (E 420)

This medicinal product contains 100 mg sorbitol in each vial which is equivalent to 40 mg/kg. Patients with hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) must not be given this medicinal product unless strictly necessary.

Babies and young children (below 2 years of age) may not yet be diagnosed with hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI). Medicinal products containing sorbitol/fructose given intravenously may be life-threatening. The treatment benefit to the child compared to the associated risks must be fully evaluated prior to treatment.

A detailed history with regard to HFI symptoms has to be taken for each patient prior to being given this medicinal product.

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

No interaction studies have been performed.

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

There are no data on the use of Vimizim in pregnant women.

Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to pregnancy or embryo-foetal development (see section 5.3). These studies however, are of limited relevance. As a precautionary measure, it is preferable to avoid the use of Vimizim during pregnancy, unless clearly necessary.

Breast-feeding

Available reproductive data in animals have shown excretion of elosulfase alfa in milk. It is not known whether elosulfase alfa is excreted in human breast milk, but systemic exposure via breast milk is not expected. Due to lack of human data, Vimizim should only be administered to breast-feeding woman if the potential benefit is considered to outweigh the potential risk to the infant.

Fertility

No impairment of fertility has been observed in nonclinical studies (see section 5.3) with elosulfase alfa.

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Vimizim has minor influence on the ability to drive and use machines. Dizziness was reported during Vimizim infusions; if dizziness occurs after the infusion, the ability to drive and use machines may be affected.

4.8 Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

The assessment of adverse reactions is based on the exposure of 176 patients with MPS IVA, ages 5 to 57 years old to 2 mg/kg elosulfase alfa once a week (n=58), 2 mg/kg elosulfase alfa once every other week (n=59), or placebo (n=59) in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

The majority of adverse reactions in clinical studies were IRs, which are defined as reactions occurring after initiation of infusion until the end of the day following the infusion. Serious IRs were observed in clinical studies and included anaphylaxis, hypersensitivity and vomiting. The most common symptoms of IRs (occurring in > 10% of patients treated with Vimizim and > 5% more when compared to placebo) were headache, nausea, vomiting, pyrexia, chills and abdominal pain. IRs were generally mild or moderate, and the frequency was higher during the first 12 weeks of treatment and tended to occur less frequently with time.

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

The data in Table 2 below describes adverse reactions from clinical studies in patients treated with Vimizim.

Frequencies are defined as: very common (> 1/10), common (> 1/100 to < 1/10), uncommon (> 1/1,000 to < 1/100), rare (> 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000), very rare (< 1/10,000) and not known (cannot be estimated from available data). Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

Table 2: Adverse reactions in patients treated with Vimizim

Description of selected adverse reactions

Immunogenicity

All patients developed antibodies to elosulfase alfa in clinical studies. Approximately 80% of patients developed neutralizing antibodies capable of inhibiting the elosulfase alfa from binding to the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor. Sustained improvements in efficacy measures and reductions in urine keratan sulphate (KS) over time were observed across studies, despite the presence of anti elosulfase alfa antibodies. No correlations were found between higher antibody titres or neutralizing antibody positivity and reductions in efficacy measurements or occurrence of anaphylaxis or other hypersensitivity reactions. IgE antibodies against elosulfase alfa were detected in < 10% of treated patients and have not consistently been related to anaphylaxis or other hypersensitivity reactions and/or treatment withdrawal.

Paediatric population

In patients < 5 years of age, the overall safety profile of Vimizim at 2 mg/kg/week was consistent with the safety profile of Vimizim observed in older children.

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 at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9 Overdose

In clinical studies, doses of elosulfase alfa were explored up to 4 mg/kg per week and no specific signs or symptoms were identified following the higher doses. No differences in the safety profile were observed. For management of adverse reactions, see sections 4.4 and 4.8.

5 PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Other alimentary tract and metabolism products, enzymes. ATC code: A16AB12.

Mechanism of action

Mucopolysaccha­ridoses comprises a group of lysosomal storage disorders caused by the deficiency of specific lysosomal enzymes required for the catabolism of glycosaminoglycans (GAG). MPS IVA is characterised by the absence or marked reduction in N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase activity. The sulfatase activity deficiency results in the accumulation of the GAG substrates, KS and chondroitin 6 sulphate (C6S), in the lysosomal compartment of cells throughout the body. The accumulation leads to widespread cellular, tissue, and organ dysfunction. Elosulfase alfa is intended to provide the exogenous enzyme N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase that will be taken up into the lysosomes and increase the catabolism of the GAGs KS and C6S. Enzyme uptake by cells into lysosomes is mediated by cation independent mannose-6-phosphate receptors leading to restored GALNS activity and clearance of KS and C6S.

Clinical efficacy and safety

Clinical studies performed with Vimizim assessed the impact of treatment on the systemic manifestations of MPS IVA in various domains including endurance, respiratory function, growth velocity, and mobility, as well as urine KS.

A total of 235 patients with MPS IVA were enrolled and exposed to Vimizim in six clinical studies.

The safety and efficacy of Vimizim was assessed in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 clinical study of 176 patients with MPS IVA, ranging in age from 5 to 57 years. The majority of the patients presented with short stature, impaired endurance, and musculoskeletal symptoms. Patients who could walk more than 30 meters (m) but less than 325 m in a 6 Minute Walk Test (MWT) at baseline were enrolled in the study.

Patients received elosulfase alfa 2 mg/kg every week (n=58) or 2 mg/kg every other week (n=59), or placebo (n=59) for a total of 24 weeks. All patients were treated with antihistamines prior to each infusion. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline in the 6 MWT distance compared to placebo at Week 24. The secondary endpoints were the change from baseline in the 3 Minute Stair Climb Test (MSCT) and urine KS levels at Week 24. A total of 173 patients subsequently enrolled in an extension study in which patients received 2 mg/kg of elosulfase alfa every week or 2 mg/kg every other week, and then all were switched to 2 mg/kg every week upon availability of the Week 24 results.

The primary and secondary endpoints were evaluated at Week 24 (see Table 3). The modelled treatment effect in the distance walked in 6 minutes, compared to placebo, was 22.5 m (CI95, 4.0, 40.9; p=0.0174) for the 2 mg/kg per week regimen. The modelled treatment effect in stairs climbed per minute, compared to placebo, was 1.1 stairs/minute (CI95, –2.1, 4.4; p=0.4935) for the 2 mg/kg per week regimen. The modelled treatment effect for the percent change in urine KS, compared to placebo, was –40.7 % (CI95, –49.0, –32.4; p<0.0001) for the 2 mg/kg per week regimen. The difference was greatest between the placebo group and the weekly treatment group for all endpoints. The results from the every other week regimen in the distance walked in 6 minutes or in stairs climbed per minute were comparable to placebo.

Table 3: Results from placebo-controlled clinical study at 2 mg per kg per week

6-Minute walk test (meters)

* One patient in the Vimizim group dropped out after 1 infusion

* Model-based mean of Vimizim versus placebo, adjusted for baseline

In additional extension studies, patients receiving elosulfase alfa 2 mg/kg every week, showed maintenance of initial improvement in endurance and sustained reduction of urinary KS up to 156 weeks.

Paediatric population

It is important to initiate treatment as early as possible.

The majority of patients who received Vimizim during clinical studies were in the paediatric and adolescent age range (5 to 17 years). In an open-label study, 15 paediatric patients with MPS IVA under the age of 5 years (9 months to <5 years) received 2 mg/kg of Vimizim once a week for 52 weeks. Patients continued a longterm follow-up observational study for at least another 52 weeks, for a total of 104 weeks. Safety and pharmacodynamic results in these patients are consistent with results observed in the first 52 weeks (see section 4.8). The baseline mean (±SD) normalised standing height z-score was – 1.6 (±1.61). After the first 52 weeks of treatment the normalised standing height z-score was –1.9 (±1.62). At Week 104 mean (±SD) normalised standing height z-score was –3.1 (± 1.13).

The European Medicines Agency has deferred the obligation to submit the results of studies with Vimizim in one or more subsets of the paediatric population in MPS IVA. See section 4.2 for information on paediatric use.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

The pharmacokinetic parameters of elosulfase alfa were evaluated in 23 patients with MPS IVA who received weekly intravenous infusions of 2 mg/kg of elosulfase alfa over approximately 4 hours for 22 weeks and the parameters at Week 0 and Week 22 were compared. At Week 22, the mean AUC0-t and Cmax increased by 181% and 192%, respectively, when compared to Week 0

Table 4: Pharmacokinetic properties

* AUC0-t, area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to the time of last measurable concentration;

1 Cmax, observed maximum plasma concentration;

* CL, total clearance of elosulfase alfa after intravenous administration;

§ t1/2, elimination half-life;

1 Tmax, time from zero to maximum plasma concentration

Biotransformation

Elosulfase alfa is a protein and is expected to be metabolically degraded through peptide hydrolysis. Consequently, impaired liver function is not expected to affect the pharmacokinetics of elosulfase alfa.

Elimination

Renal elimination of elosulfase alfa is considered a minor pathway for clearance. Mean half-life (t1/2) increased from 7.52 minutes at Week 0 to 35.9 minutes at Week 22. Male and female patients had comparable elosulfase alfa clearance, and clearance did not trend with age or weight at week 22. Impact of antibodies on elosulfase alfa pharmacokinetics was assessed. No association was apparent between the total antibody titre and elosulfase clearance. However, patients with positive neutralizing antibodies responses had decreased total clearance (CL) values and prolonged t1/2. Despite the alteration of the pharmacokinetics profile, presence of neutralizing antibodies did not affect pharmacodynamics, efficacy, or safety of the patients who were treated with elosulfase alfa. No accumulation of elosulfase alfa in plasma was evident following weekly dosing.

6.1 List of excipients

Sodium acetate trihydrate

Sodium dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate

Arginine hydrochloride

Sorbitol (E 420)

Polysorbate 20

Water for injections

6.2 Incompatibilities

This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products except those mentioned in section 6.6.

6.3

3 years

After dilution

Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for up to 24 hours at 2°C – 8°C followed by up to 24 hours at 23°C – 27°C.

From a microbiological safety point of view, the diluted solution should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions are the responsibility of the user and should normally not be longer than 24 hours at 2°C –8°C followed by up to 24 hours at 23°C – 27°C during administration.

6.4 Special precautions for storage

Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). Do not freeze.

Store in the original package in order to protect from light.

For storage conditions after dilution of the medicinal product, see section 6.3.

6.5 Nature and contents of container

Clear glass vial (Type I) with a butyl rubber stopper and a flip-off crimp seal (aluminium) with a plastic cap.

Pack sizes: 1 vial

6.6 Special precautions for disposal

Each vial of Vimizim is intended for single use only. Vimizim has to be diluted with sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for infusion using aseptic technique. The diluted solution is administered to patients using an infusion set. An infusion set equipped with an in-line 0.2 jim filter can be used.

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

Preparation of the Vimizim infusion

Aseptic technique is to be used.

Vimizim must be diluted prior to administration.

The number of vials to be diluted is based on the individual patient's weight. The recommended dose is 2 mg per kg.

1. The number of vials to be diluted based on the individual patient’s weight and the recommended dose of 2 mg/kg is determined, using the following calculation:

Patient weight (kg) multiplied by 2 (mg/kg) = Patient dose (mg)

Patient dose (mg) divided by 1 (mg/ml concentrate of Vimizim) = Total number of ml of Vimizim

Total amount (ml) Vimizim divided by 5 ml per vial = Total number of vials

2. The calculated total number of vials is rounded up to the next whole vial. The appropriate number of vials is removed from the refrigerator. Do not heat or microwave vials. Do not shake vials.

3. An infusion bag containing sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for infusion is obtained suitable for intravenous administration. The total volume of the infusion is determined by the patient’s body weight.

Patients weighing less than 25 kg should receive a total volume of 100 ml.

Patients weighing 25 kg or more should receive a total volume of 250 ml.

4. Before withdrawing Vimizim from the vial, each vial is visually inspected for particulate matter and discoloration. Because this is a protein solution, slight flocculation (thin translucent fibres) may occur. The Vimizim solution should be clear to slightly opalescent and colourless to pale yellow. Do not use if the solution is discoloured or if there is particulate matter in the solution.

5. A volume of the sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for infusion is to be withdrawn and discarded from the infusion bag, equal to the volume of Vimizim concentrate to be added.

6. The calculated volume of Vimizim from the appropriate number of vials is slowly withdrawn using caution to avoid excessive agitation.

7. Vimizim is slowly added to the infusion bag using care to avoid agitation.

8. The infusion bag is gently rotated to ensure proper distribution of Vimizim. Do not shake the solution.

9. The diluted solution is administered to patients using an infusion set. An infusion set equipped with an in-line 0.2|jm filter can be used.