Thursday, 29 September 2016

Coly-Mycin M


Generic Name: Colistimethate Sodium
Class: Polymyxins
VA Class: AM900
CAS Number: 8068-28-8


Special Alerts:


[Posted 06/30/2011] A National Alert for Serious Medication Errors has been issued by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), warning that potentially fatal errors may occur with dosing for the antibiotic colistimethate for injection. The use of this drug has been increasing due to its value as a last resort treatment for multi-drug resistant organisms.


Colistimethate is a prodrug, a pre-cursor of a drug that converts to an active drug in the human body as it is metabolized. However, in the U.S., the strength of all FDA-approved colistimethate for injection products is labeled in terms of the base drug, colistin, not the prodrug. The label expresses the strength as 150 mg of colistin base per vial.


Dosing information also is expressed in terms of the colistin base. However, on the Internet and in some journal references, dosing information is based on the prodrug, colistimethate. This has resulted in situations where the prodrug dose is ordered but confused as a colistin dose, which results in doses approximately 2.5 times higher than intended.


In a recent case, a physician mistakenly ordered a dose of colistimethate as the prodrug, but the amount was dispensed as the colistin base. The patient developed complications including acute renal failure and later died.


The alert provides recommendations to prevent misdosing of colistimethate, which include developing dose limits, restricting prescribing to infectious disease specialists, and monitoring the patients’ renal function. Physicians, pharmacists, and nurses are expected to use these recommendations to take immediate action to prevent serious medication errors at their facility.


Alerts are issued by ASHP and ISMP when a significant risk for serious or fatal errors is detected through ISMP’s National Medication Error Reporting Program (MERP). Alerts are distributed to healthcare practitioners and organizations through ISMP, ASHP, and the National Council on Medication Error Reporting and Prevention.



Introduction

Antibacterial; sulfamethyl derivative (methane sulfonate) of colistin that is hydrolyzed to colistin in vitro (in aqueous solutions) and in vivo.134 Colistin (polymyxin E) is a polymyxin antibiotic structurally and pharmacologically related to polymyxin B.134


Uses for Coly-Mycin M


Gram-negative Aerobic Bacterial Infections


Treatment of acute or chronic infections caused by certain susceptible gram-negative bacteria (e.g., Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa).100


Used only when the causative agent is susceptible and other more effective and less toxic anti-infectives are contraindicated or ineffective.a


May be useful alone or in conjunction with other anti-infectives for treatment of infections caused by multiple-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria, such as respiratory tract infections in cystic fibrosis patients caused by multiple-drug resistant Ps. aeruginosa.106 119 121 122 135


Not indicated for infections caused by Proteus or Neisseria.100


Respiratory Tract Infections


Administered by oral inhalation via nebulization in adult and pediatric cystic fibrosis patients for early treatment of Ps. aeruginosa respiratory tract infections and for suppressive therapy in those colonized with Ps. aeruginosa.109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126


Safety and efficacy not established and the drug is not labeled by FDA for administration via nebulization.109 110 Adverse respiratory effects (e.g., bronchoconstriction) have occurred with this route119 130 131 and there has been at least one fatality in a patient who self-administered a nebulizer treatment using a premixed solution of the drug.109 110 (See Respiratory Effects under Cautions.)


Coly-Mycin M Dosage and Administration


Administration


Administer by IM injection, IV injection, or continuous IV infusion.100 Also has been administered by oral inhalation via nebulization.109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126


Solutions for IM injection, IV injection, or continuous IV infusion should be freshly prepared and used within 24 hours.100


Extemporaneously prepared solutions for nebulization should be used promptly after being prepared.109 A fatality has been reported in a cystic fibrosis patient who self-administered a nebulizer treatment using a premixed solution of the drug.109 110 (See Respiratory Effects under Cautions.)


IM Administration


Reconstitution

Reconstitute colistimethate sterile powder by adding 2 mL of sterile water for injection to a vial labeled as containing 150 mg of colistin; swirl gently to avoid frothing.100 The resultant solution contains 75 mg of colistin per mL.100


Inject the appropriate dose of reconstituted solution IM.100


IV Injection


Reconstitution

Reconstitute colistimethate sterile powder by adding 2 mL of sterile water for injection to a vial labeled as containing 150 mg of colistin; swirl gently to avoid frothing.100 Resultant solution contains 75 mg of colistin per mL.100


Rate of Administration

Inject the appropriate dose of reconstituted solution directly into a vein over 3–5 minutes.100


IV Infusion


For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Reconstitution and Dilution

Reconstitute colistimethate sterile powder by adding 2 mL of sterile water for injection to a vial labeled as containing 150 mg of colistin; swirl gently to avoid frothing.100 Resultant solution contains 75 mg of colistin per mL.100


Add one-half of the total daily dose to a compatible IV solution.100 (See Compatibility under Stability.)


Rate of Administration

Inject one-half of the total daily dose directly into a vein over 3–5 minutes (as reconstituted solution), then administer the dilution containing the remaining one-half of the total daily dose by slow IV infusion over 22–23 hours beginning 1–2 hours after the injection.100


The infusion rate should be 5–6 mg/hour in patients with normal renal function.a Reduce rate depending on the degree of renal impairment.100


Oral Inhalation


For oral inhalation via nebulization, an isotonic solution has been prepared by diluting the appropriate dose in 2–4 mL of preservative-free 0.9% sodium chloride injection, sterile water, or a mixture of 0.9% sodium chloride injection and sterile water.110 111 112 114 115 121 126 131


Extemporaneously prepared solutions for nebulization should be used promptly after being prepared.109 A fatality has been reported in a cystic fibrosis patient who self-administered a nebulizer treatment using a premixed solution of the drug.109 110 (See Respiratory Effects under Cautions.)


Bronchoconstriction has occurred almost immediately after initiation of nebulization;119 premedication with bronchodilators can be used to reduce the potential for bronchoconstriction.119 120 122 130 131 (See Respiratory Effects under Cautions.)


Dosage


Available as colistimethate sodium.100


Dosage of colistimethate sodium commercially available in the US is expressed in terms of colistin base.100


Dosage of colistimethate sodium preparations commercially available in some other countries (e.g., United Kingdom, Greece) is expressed in terms of colistimethate sodium or in terms of international units.111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 121 129 The fact that dosages reported in published clinical studies or case reports may vary depending on the preparation used should be considered.120 129


To avoid confusion, it has been suggested that dosage of colistimethate should preferably be expressed in terms of international units.129 135 When expressed in terms of international units, each mg of colistin base has a potency of 30,000 international units129 134 and each mg of colistimethate sodium has a potency of 12,500 international units.129


Dosage is identical for either IV or IM administration.100


Pediatric Patients


General Dosage for Infants and Children

IM or IV Injection

2.5–5 mg/kg of colistin daily given in 2–4 divided doses, depending on the severity of the infection.100


Continuous IV Infusion

2.5–5 mg/kg of colistin daily, depending on the severity of the infection.100 Give the first half of the dose by direct IV injection and the second half of the dose by slow IV infusion over 22–23 hours beginning 1–2 hours after the injection.100


Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Oral Inhalation

33.33–66.66 mg of colistin 2 or 3 times daily.111 112 113 114 115 117 128 This corresponds to 1–2 million international units 2 or 3 times daily.111 112 113 114 115 116 117 121 128


Adults


General Adult Dosage

IM or IV Injection

2.5–5 mg/kg of colistin daily given in 2–4 divided doses, depending on the severity of the infection.100


Continuous IV Infusion

2.5–5 mg/kg of colistin daily, depending on the severity of the infection.100 Give the first half of the dose by direct IV injection and the second half of the dose by slow IV infusion over 22–23 hours beginning 1–2 hours after the injection.100


Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Oral Inhalation

33.33–66.66 mg of colistin 2 or 3 times daily.111 112 113 114 115 117 128 This corresponds to 1–2 million international units 2 or 3 times daily.111 112 113 114 115 116 117 121 128


Prescribing Limits


Pediatric Patients


IM or IV

Maximum of 5 mg/kg of colistin daily in those with normal renal function.100


Adults


IM or IV

Maximum of 5 mg/kg of colistin daily in those with normal renal function.100


Special Populations


Hepatic Impairment


No specific dosage recommendations at this time.100


Renal Impairment


Adjust IM or IV dosage in patients with renal impairment.100 Decrease IM or IV dose and frequency in proportion to the degree of renal impairment.100 (See Table.)




























Dosage for Adults with Renal Impairment100

Scr (mg/100mL)



IM or IV Dose (mg)



Frequency (times/day)



Total daily dose (mg)



Approximate daily dose (mg/kg/day)



0.7–1.2



100–150



2–4



300



5



1.3–1.5



75–115



2



150–230



2.5–3.8



1.6–2.5



66–150



1–2



133–150



2.5



2.6–4



100–150



every 36 hours



100



1.5


Geriatric Patients


Select IM or IV dosage with caution, usually initiating therapy at the low end of the dosage range.100 Consider the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and of concomitant disease and drug therapy observed in the elderly.100


Obese Patients


Base dosage on ideal body weight.100


Cautions for Coly-Mycin M


Contraindications



  • Hypersensitivity to colistimethate or any ingredient in the formulation.100



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Nephrotoxicity

Nephrotoxicity (decreased urine output, increased BUN and Scr, proteinuria, hematuria, casts in the urine) reported with usual dosage.a Acute tubular necrosis has been reported and was not necessarily preceded by progressive renal impairment.a


Nephrotoxicity generally reversible when the drug is discontinued.a Additional increases in Scr frequently occur for 1–2 weeks following discontinuance of the drug.a


Monitor renal function.a Nephrotoxicity probably is dose-dependent,100 but adverse renal effects may occur regardless of dosage.a


Use with caution in patients in whom the possibility of renal impairment exists (e.g., geriatric patients).100


Discontinue drug immediately if diminishing urine output, increasing BUN or Scr, or decreased Clcr occur.100 If colistimethate must be reinstated, dosage should be adjusted after plasma concentrations of the drug have declined.100 (See Renal Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Neurotoxicity

Transient neurologic effects reported, including circumoral or peripheral paresthesia or numbness, tingling, or formication of the extremities or tongue, generalized pruritus, dizziness, vertigo, giddiness, ataxia, blurred vision, and slurred speech.100 a


If neurologic effects occur, they generally appear within the first 4 days of therapy and disappear upon discontinuing the drug.a


More severe neurotoxic effects (e.g., mental confusion, coma, psychosis, seizures) also reported, especially when high dosage was used or renal function was impaired.a


The drug does not necessarily have to be discontinued if neurologic effects occur, but monitor patient closely; some of these effects may be alleviated by reducing dosage.100 a


Patients should not drive vehicles or use hazardous machinery while receiving colistimethate.100


Neuromuscular Blockade

Neuromuscular blockade (which may result in respiratory arrest) can occur, especially when used in patients who have neuromuscular disease such as myasthenia gravis or are receiving neuromuscular blocking agents, general anesthetics, or other drugs with neuromuscular blocking potential.a (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)


Apnea and neuromuscular blockade reported most frequently when dosage was not reduced in proportion to the degree of renal impairment.a


If apnea occurs, respiration should be assisted, and calcium chloride injections and oxygen administered if appropriate.a


Neuromuscular blockade induced by colistimethate is noncompetitive and is not reversed by neostigmine.a


Respiratory Effects

Administration by oral inhalation via nebulization has caused bronchoconstriction in adult and pediatric cystic fibrosis patients.119 130 131 Bronchoconstriction has occurred almost immediately after initiation of nebulization and can last for >30 minutes.119


Premedication with bronchodilators may reduce the potential for bronchoconstriction.119 120 122 130 131


Pre- and posttreatment pulmonary function tests recommended to identify patients who may be predisposed to bronchoconstriction.119 Bronchodilator premedication recommended in young children who are unable to perform pulmonary function tests.131


Respiratory distress progressing over several days to acute respiratory failure, multi-organ system failure, and death was reported in a patient who received colistimethate by oral inhalation via nebulization.109 110 This patient self-administered the nebulizer treatment using a colistimethate solution prepared by a pharmacy and dispensed in premixed unit dose ready-to-use vials.109 110 This fatality may have been related to the fact that a premixed solution of colistimethate was used in the nebulizer.109 110


Extemporaneously prepared solutions of colistimethate should be used promptly.109 After colistimethate is mixed with water and buffer, it undergoes spontaneous hydrolysis to colistin.110 A component of colistin (polymyxin E1) has been shown to cause pulmonary inflammatory reactions in animals and may contribute to such local toxicity in humans.109 110 119


Respiratory arrest reported following IM administration.100


Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea and Colitis

Treatment with anti-infectives may permit overgrowth of Clostridium difficile.100 101 102 103 104 105 C. difficile-associated diarrhea and colitis (CDAD; also known as antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis or pseudomembranous colitis) has been reported with nearly all anti-infectives, including colistimethate, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis.100 101 102 103 104 105


Consider CDAD if diarrhea develops during or after therapy and manage accordingly.100 101 102 103 104 105 Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur as late as 2 months or longer after anti-infective therapy is discontinued.100


If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, discontinuance of the anti-infective may be necessary.100 101 102 103 104 105 Some mild cases may respond to discontinuance alone.100 101 102 103 104 105 Manage moderate to severe cases with fluid, electrolyte, and protein supplementation, anti-infective therapy active against C. difficile (e.g., oral metronidazole or vancomycin), and surgical evaluation when clinically indicated.100 101 102 103 104 105


General Precautions


Superinfection

Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms (e.g., Proteus).a If suprainfection or superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate anti-infective therapy should be instituted.a


Selection and Use of Anti-Infectives

To reduce development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain effectiveness of colistimethate and other antibacterials, use only for treatment or prevention of infections proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.100


When selecting or modifying anti-infective therapy, use results of culture and in vitro susceptibility testing.100 In the absence of such data, consider local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns when selecting anti-infectives for empiric therapy.100


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category C.100


Lactation

Not known whether colistimethate is distributed into milk;100 colistin is distributed into milk.100 Use with caution.100


Pediatric Use

Used in neonates, infants, children, and adolescents.100 Adverse effect profile in pediatric patients appears to be similar to that in adults; however, monitor closely since subjective symptoms of toxicity may not be reported by pediatric patients.100


Geriatric Use

Insufficient experience in patients ≥65 years of age to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger adults.100 Other clinical experience has not revealed age-related differences in response.100


Select dosage with caution, usually starting at the low end of the dosage range, because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.100


Substantially eliminated by kidneys; risk of toxicity may be greater in those with impaired renal function.100 Consider monitoring renal function because of age-related decreases in renal function.100 (See Renal Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Renal Impairment

Use with caution in patients in whom the possibility of renal impairment exists (e.g., geriatric patients).100


If used in patients with renal impairment, reduce dosage and frequency of administration in proportion to the degree of impairment.100 (See Renal Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Dosage that exceeds renal excretory capacity will lead to high serum concentrations of the drug, which can result in further impairment of renal function and possibly acute renal insufficiency, renal shutdown, and neuromuscular blockade.100


Discontinue drug immediately if diminishing urine output, increasing concentrations of BUN or Scr, or decreased Clcr occur.100


Common Adverse Effects


Renal effects, nervous system effects.100


Interactions for Coly-Mycin M


Neurotoxic or Nephrotoxic Drugs


Concomitant or sequential use with other drugs that have neurotoxic and/or nephrotoxic effects may result in additive toxicity and should be avoided, if possible.100 a


Specific Drugs
























Drug



Interaction



Comments



Aminoglycosides



Possible increased risk of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic effects;100 a possible potentiation of neuromuscular blockade100



Use caution;100 avoid concurrent or sequential use, if possiblea



Amphotericin B



Possible increased risk of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic effectsa



Avoid concurrent or sequential use, if possiblea



Capreomycin



Possible increased risk of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic effectsa



Avoid concurrent or sequential use, if possiblea



Neuromuscular blocking agents and general anesthetics (succinylcholine, tubocurarine, ether, decamethonium)



Possible potentiation of neuromuscular blockade100 a



Use extreme caution100



Polymyxin B sulfate



Possible increased risk of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic effects;100 a possible potentiation of neuromuscular blockade100



Use caution;100 avoid concurrent or sequential use, if possible100 a



Vancomycin



Possible increased risk of nephrotoxic and/or neurotoxic effectsa



Avoid concurrent or sequential use, if possiblea


Coly-Mycin M Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Not absorbed orally;a must be given parenterally.a


Following IM administration, peak serum concentrations attained within 2 hours.a


Special Populations

Following IV administration of colistimethate sodium in a dosage of 5–7 mg/kg of colistin daily given in 3 equally divided doses (maximum 70–100 mg every 8 hours) in cystic fibrosis patients 14–53 years of age, mean peak serum concentrations after first dose and at steady state are 21.4 mcg/mL and 23 mcg/mL, respectively;133 mean 8-hour trough concentrations after first dose and at steady state are 2.8 mcg/mL and 4.5 mcg/mL, respectively.133


Following oral inhalation via nebulization of colistimethate sodium in a dosage of 66.66 mg of colistin (2 million international units) in cystic fibrosis patients 12–48 years of age, peak serum concentrations of 0.17 mcg/mL are attained in 1.5 hours.132


Distribution


Extent


Widely distributed into body tissues following IV or IM administration.a Negligible concentrations attained in synovial, pleural, or pericardial fluids.a


Minimal concentrations attained in CSF following IV or IM administration in patients with normal or inflamed meninges.a


Crosses placenta.100


Not known whether colistimethate is distributed into milk; colistin is distributed into milk.100


Plasma Protein Binding


>50% bound.a


Special Populations

Following IV administration in cystic fibrosis patients 14–53 years of age, steady state volume of distribution is 0.09 L/kg.133


Following oral inhalation via nebulization in cystic fibrosis patients 12–48 years of age, sputum concentrations peaked in 1 hour and remained >4 mcg/mL for up to 12 hours in most patients.132


Elimination


Metabolism


Hydrolyzed in vivo to colistin and possibly other metabolites with fewer substituted amino groups.a Rate and extent of hydrolysis as well as the specific metabolites and their antibacterial activities have not been determined to date.a


Elimination Route


Excreted mainly by the kidneys via glomerular filtration.a Antimicrobial activity in urine generally higher than in serum.a


May be removed by hemodialysis and, to a lesser extent, by peritoneal dialysis.134


Half-life


1.5–8 hours in adults with normal renal function.a


Special Populations


Children: Serum concentrations decline more rapidly than in adults.a


Impaired renal function: Serum concentrations are higher and the half-life prolonged.a Half-life ranges from 10–20 hours in patients with Clcr <20 mL/minute.a In a few anuric patients, half-life of antimicrobial activity ranged from 2–3 days.a


Cystic fibrosis patients 14–53 years of age receiving IV colistimethate: Half-life is 3.4 hours after the first dose and 3.5 hours at steady state.133


Cystic fibrosis patients 12–48 years of age receiving colistimethate by oral inhalation via nebulization: Half-life is 4.1–4.5 hours.132


Stability


Storage


Parenteral


Powder for Injection

20–25°C.100


Following reconstitution, store at 2–8°C or 20–25°C and use within 7 days.100


Reconstituted solutions further diluted with a compatible IV solution should be used within 24 hours.100


Extemporaneously prepared solutions for oral inhalation via nebulization should be used promptly after being mixed.109 (See Respiratory Effects under Cautions.)


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Parenteral


Solution Compatibility








Compatible100



Dextrose 5% in 0.225%, 0.45%, or 0.9% sodium chloride



Dextrose 5% in water



Invert sugar 10%



Ringer’s injection, lactated



Sodium chloride 0.9%


Drug Compatibility



















Admixture CompatibilityHID

Compatible



Amikacin sulfate



Ascorbic acid injection



Chloramphenicol sodium succinate



Cimetidine HCl



Diphenhydramine HCl



Heparin sodium



Penicillin G potassium



Penicillin G sodium



Phenobarbital sodium



Polymyxin B sulfate



Ranitidine HCl



Vitamin B complex with C



Incompatible



Erythromycin lactobionate



Hydrocortisone sodium succinate



Kanamycin sulfate


Actions and Spectrum



  • Inactive until hydrolyzed to colistin;a hydrolysis occurs in vitro in aqueous solutions and in vivo.a




  • Usually bactericidal.a




  • Acts like a cationic detergent and binds to and damages bacterial cytoplasmic membrane of susceptible bacteria causing alteration of the osmotic barrier and leakage of essential intracellular metabolites and nucleosides.a




  • In vitro spectrum of activity includes certain gram-negative bacteria.100 a Inactive against gram-positive bacteria, fungi, and viruses.a




  • Gram-negative bacteria: Active in vitro against Acinetobacter, Citrobacter, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella, Shigella, and some strains of Bordetella and Vibrio.100 a Most strains of Proteus, Providencia, Serratia, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, N. meningitidis, and Bacteroides fragilis are resistant to colistin.100 a




  • Resistance has been induced in vitro in strains originally susceptible.a Resistance may be reversible when drug is withdrawn.a Resistance developed rarely during therapy.a




  • Resistant Ps. aeruginosa reported rarely, including in some patients receiving long-term treatment with colistimethate administered by oral inhalation via nebulization.122 134




  • Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii,136 Enterobacter cloacae,138 and Klebsiella pneumoniae reported rarely.137 138




  • Complete cross-resistance occurs between colistin and polymyxin B;134 cross-resistance with other anti-infectives has not been reported to date.a



Advice to Patients



  • Advise patients that antibacterials (including colistimethate) should only be used to treat bacterial infections and not used to treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold).100




  • Importance of completing full course of therapy, even if feeling better after a few days.100




  • Advise patients that skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may decrease effectiveness and increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable with colistimethate or other antibacterials in the future.100




  • Importance of informing clinician if there is evidence of neurotoxicity (e.g., paresthesia, lethargy, confusion, dizziness, ataxia, nystagmus, speech disorders, apnea) or nephrotoxicity (e.g., decreased urine output).a




  • Patients should be warned that the drug may impair their ability to perform hazardous activities requiring mental alertness or physical coordination (e.g., operating machinery, driving a motor vehicle).a




  • Advise patients that diarrhea is a common problem caused by anti-infectives and usually ends when the drug is discontinued.100 Importance of contacting a clinician if watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) occur during or as late as 2 months or longer after the last dose.100




  • Patients should be advised not to use any premixed, ready-to-use liquid preparations of colistimethate for nebulization and to discard any unused vials of premixed, ready-to-use liquid preparations of the drug that they may have in their possession.109 110




  • Importance of informing clinician of existing or contemplated therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, and any concomitant illnesses.a




  • Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.a




  • Importance of advising patients of other important precautionary information.a (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.


* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name


















Colistimethate Sodium

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Parenteral



For injection



150 mg (of colistin)*



Colistimethate Sodium for Injection



Paddock, X-Gen



Coly-Mycin M Parenteral



Monarch



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions October 25, 2011. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.


† Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.




References



100. Monarch Pharmaceuticals. Coly-mycin M parenteral (colistimethate) for injection, USP prescribing information. Bristol, TN; 2006 Oct.



101. Johnson S, Gerding DN. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Clin Infect Dis. 1998; 26:1027-36. [IDIS 407733] [PubMed 9597221]



102. Gerding DN, Johnson S, Peterson LR et al for the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America. Position paper on Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and colitis. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 1995; 16:459-77. [PubMed 7594392]



103. Fekety R for the American College of Gastroenterology Practice Parameters Committee. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and colitis. Am J Gastroenterol. 1997; 92:739-50. (IDIS 386628) [IDIS 386628] [PubMed 9149180]



104. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Commission on Therapeutics. ASHP therapeutic position statement on the preferential use of metronidazole for the treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated disease. Am J Health-Syst Pharm. 1998; 55:1407-11. [IDIS 407213] [PubMed 9659970]



105. Wilcox MH.Treatment of Clostridium difficile infection. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1998; 41(Suppl C):41-6. [IDIS 407246] [PubMed 9630373]



106. Evans ME, Feola DJ, Rapp RP. Polymyxin B sulfate and colistin: old antibiotics for emerging multiresistant gram-negative bacteria. Ann Pharmacol. 1999; 33:960-7.



108. Anon. Choice of antibacterial drugs. Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2004; 2:20-22.



109. Food and Drug Administration. Public health advisory on colistimethate (marketed as Coly-Mycin M and generic products). Rockville, MD; 2007 June 28. From FDA website.



110. Food and Drug Administration. Information for healthcare professionals on colistimethate (marketed as Coly-Mycin M and generic products). Rockville, MD; June 28 2007. From FDA website.



111. Hodson ME, Gallagher CG, Govan JRW. A randomised clinical trial of nebulised tobramycin or colistin in cystic fibrosis. Eur Respir J. 2002; 20:658–64.



112. Jensen T, Pedersn SS, Garne S et al. Colistin inhalation therapy in cystic fibrosis patients with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1987; 19:831–8.



113. Valerius NH, Koch C, Hoiby N. Prevention of chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonisation in cystic fibrosis by early treatment. Lancet . 1991; 338:725–6.



114. Hoiby N, Frederiksen B, Pressler T. Eradication of early Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. J Cystic Fibro. 2005; 4:49-54.



115. Frederiksen B, Koch C, Hoiby N. Antibiotic treatment of initial colonization with Pseudomonas aeruginosa postpones chronic infection and prevents deterioration of pulmonary function in cystic fibrosis. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1997; 23:330–5.



116. Littlewood JM, Miller MG, G

Wednesday, 28 September 2016

Sintelin




Sintelin may be available in the countries listed below.


Ingredient matches for Sintelin



Ampicillin

Ampicillin is reported as an ingredient of Sintelin in the following countries:


  • Peru

International Drug Name Search

Ibritumomab Tiuxetan


Class: Antineoplastic Agents
VA Class: AN600
Chemical Name: N - [2 - [bis(carboxymethyl)amino] - 3 - (4 - isothiocyanatophenyl)propyl] - N - [2 - [bis(carboxymethyl)amino]propyl] glycine conjugate dimer disulfide with mouse monoclonal IDEC-Y2B8k-chain anti-(human CD20 (antigen)) (mouse monoclonal IDEC-Y2B8 γ1-chain) immuglobulin G1
CAS Number: 206181-63-7
Brands: Zevalin


  • Experience of Supervising Clinician


  • Use only by qualified clinicians experienced in the safe use and handling of radionuclides.1 7



  • Rituximab-related Infusion Reactions


  • Fatalities have occurred within 24 hours following rituximab infusion, an essential component of the ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen.1 2




  • Fatalities were associated with an infusion reaction symptom complex that included hypoxia, pulmonary infiltrates, acute respiratory distress syndrome, MI, ventricular fibrillation, and/or cardiogenic shock.1




  • Approximately 80% of fatal infusion reactions occurred with initial infusion of rituximab.1 4




  • If severe infusion-related effects develop, discontinue rituximab, indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan, and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan, and initiate appropriate therapy.1 (See Infusion-related Effects under Cautions.)



  • Cytopenias


  • Most patients receiving the ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen develop prolonged and severe cytopenias.1




  • Do not use in patients with ≥25% lymphoma marrow involvement and/or impaired bone marrow reserve.1 (See Hematologic Effects under Cautions.)



  • Severe Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Reactions


  • Severe, sometimes fatal, cutaneous and mucocutaneous reactions reported.1 11 (See Severe Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Reactions under Cautions.)




  • If severe cutaneous or mucocutaneous reactions occur, discontinue rituximab, indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan, and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan.11 b



  • Yttrium Y 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan


  • Do not administer yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan to patients with altered distribution as determined by imaging with indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1




  • Dosage of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan should not exceed 32 mCi.1




Introduction

Radioimmunotherapeutic agent; a murine anti-human antigen CD20 monoclonal antibody (conjugated with the chelating agent tiuxetan) that readily chelates the radioisotopes indium 111 and yttrium 90.1 2 3 5 7


Uses for Ibritumomab Tiuxetan


Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma


Part of a specific therapeutic regimen (ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen) for treatment of relapsed or refractory low-grade, follicular, or transformed B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, including follicular non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that is refractory to rituximab therapy (designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use).1 2 12


Part of a specific therapeutic regimen (ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen) for the treatment of relapsed or refractory, low-grade, follicular B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in patients that are rituximab-naive.b


Efficacy determined based on overall response rates; actual clinical benefits (e.g., effects on survival) not clearly elucidated.1


Ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen may be associated with higher overall response rate than rituximab monotherapy;1 5 6 9 however, median duration of response and median time to disease progression were similar between the 2 groups in one study.1 9


Safety and efficacy not evaluated in patients with ≥25% involvement of bone marrow by lymphoma and/or impaired bone marrow reserve (e.g., prior myeloablative therapies, prior external beam radiation to >25% of active marrow, platelet count <100,000/mm3, neutrophil count <1500/mm3).1 5


Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Dosage and Administration


General



  • Consult specialized references for procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastic drugs.




  • The ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen consists of 2 low doses of rituximab (to deplete peripheral B lymphocytes and to improve distribution of ibritumomab tiuxetan), an imaging dose of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan coupled with one or more whole body scans (to assess distribution), and a therapeutic dose of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1 2 3 5 7 Regimen administered in 2 steps.1




  • Intended for use as a single course of treatment.1 Safety of multiple courses or of other forms of therapeutic irradiation preceding, following, or in combination with ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen not established.1




  • Do not use in absence of rituximab predose.1 Dose of rituximab is lower when used as part of ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen than when used alone.1




  • To minimize risk of infusion-related reactions, consider oral premedication with acetaminophen 650 mg and an antihistamine (e.g., diphenhydramine, 50 mg) prior to each infusion of rituximab.1 4 b




  • Distribution is restricted.2 (See Preparations.)



Administration


IV Administration


For solution compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Rituximab Administration

Administer rituximab by IV infusion; rituximab must be diluted prior to IV infusion.1 4 Do not administer by rapid IV injection (e.g., IV push or bolus).1


Consult manufacturer’s labeling for additional information on the reconstitution and administration of rituximab.1


Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Administration

Administer indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan by slow IV injection.1 5 7


A 0.22-mcm low-protein-binding filter should be inline between syringe and infusion port prior to injection of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1 Following injection, flush line with at least 10 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution.1


Observe standard precautions to avoid extravasation of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan (e.g., establish free-flowing IV line prior to administration).1 Monitor infusion site for signs of extravasation; if manifestations of extravasation appear, immediately stop infusion, restart infusion in another limb, and consult radiation safety officer.1 2 b


Yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan can be routinely administered on an outpatient basis.1 2 7 Presumably low risk of exposure to radiation in health-care professionals, family members, and other close personal contacts.2 7 Standard precautions for reducing risk of radiation exposure not necessary;2 however, some clinicians recommend following universal precautions for minimizing exposure to blood and other body fluids (e.g., saliva, urine, stool).7


Preparation of Radiolabeled Ibritumomab Tiuxetan

Instructions for preparation of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan solutions differ.1 Changing the recommended ratio of any reactant in the radiolabeling process may adversely affect therapeutic results.1


Consult manufacturer’s labeling for detailed information on preparation of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1


Rate of Administration

Rituximab step 1: Administer at initial rate of 50 mg/hour.1 If no infusion reactions occur, increase infusion rate in 50 mg/hour increments every 30 minutes, to a maximum rate of 400 mg/hour.b


Rituximab step 2: If no infusion reaction occurred during step 1, administer at an initial rate of 100 mg/hour.1 Increase infusion rate in 100 mg/hour increments every 30 minutes, to a maximum rate of 400 mg/hour as tolerated.b


If infusion reaction occurred during step 1, administer at an initial rate of 50 mg/hour.b Increase infusion rate in 50 mg/hour increments every 30 minutes, to a maximum rate of 400 mg/hour.b


If hypersensitivity reactions and/or infusion-related events develop, reduce infusion rate or temporarily interrupt infusion; when symptoms improve, resume infusion at one-half previous rate.1 (See Infusion-related Effects under Cautions.)


Indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan or yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan: administer over 10 minutes.1


Dosage


Available as ibritumomab tiuxetan; dosage expressed in terms of ibritumomab tiuxetan.1


Adults


Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

IV

Step 1 (day 1): 250 mg/m2 rituximab, then (within 4 hours) 5 mCi (1.6 mg total antibody dose) indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1 To determine distribution of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan, perform whole body scans at 48–72 hours following imaging dose and, if necessary, at other time points;1 do not proceed with therapy in patients with altered distribution.1 (See Altered Distribution under Cautions.)


Step 2 (7, 8, or 9 days after Step 1): a second 250-mg/m2 dose of rituximab, then (within 4 hours) 0.4 mCi/kg (up to a maximum dose of 32 mCi) yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan (for patients with normal platelet counts ≥150,000/mm3) or 0.3 mCi/kg yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan (for patients with platelet counts of 100,000–149,000/mm3).1 2 5 b


Prescribing Limits


Adults


Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

IV

Yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan: maximum 32 mCi regardless of patient’s weight.1 5


Special Populations


No special population dosage recommendations at this time.b (See Geriatric Use under Cautions.)


Cautions for Ibritumomab Tiuxetan


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to ibritumomab tiuxetan, murine proteins, rituximab, indium chloride, yttrium chloride, or any ingredient in the formulation.1



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Infusion-related Effects

Risk of severe, potentially fatal infusion-related effects associated with rituximab infusion.1 Onset of most severe reactions between 30–120 minutes after starting first rituximab infusion;1 4 fatalities reported within 24 hours of infusion.1 (See Boxed Warning.)


If severe infusion-related effects (e.g., urticaria, hypotension, angioedema, hypoxia, bronchospasm, pulmonary infiltrates, acute respiratory distress syndrome, MI, ventricular fibrillation, cardiogenic shock) develop, discontinue rituximab, indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan, or yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan and initiate appropriate therapy.1 4 b


For less severe infusion reactions, temporarily slow or interrupt rituximab infusion; if symptoms improve, continue at half the previous rate.1 (See Rate of Administration under Dosage and Administration.)


Monitor closely for extravasation during infusion of ibritumumab tiuxetan.b If signs or symptoms of extravasation occur, immediately terminate the infusion and restart in another limb.b (See Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Administration under Dosing and Administration.)


Hematologic Effects

Severe and prolonged cytopenia (e.g., thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, anemia) occurs in most patients;1 2 filgrastim, erythropoietin, platelet transfusions, or red blood cell transfusions required in some patients.1 2 6


Median time to nadir neutrophil or platelet count or nadir hemoglobin concentration was 7–9 weeks; median duration of cytopenia was 22–35 days.1 Possible prolonged severe cytopenia (>12 weeks following treatment).1


Risk of hemorrhage, including fatal cerebral hemorrhage.1 Carefully monitor hematologic function and promptly manage cytopenias and their complications (e.g., febrile neutropenia, hemorrhage) for up to 3 months following completion of therapy.1


Do not use in patients with ≥25% lymphoma marrow involvement and/or impaired bone marrow reserve (as indicated by prior myeloablative therapies, platelet count <100,000/mm3, neutrophil count <1500/mm3, hypocellular bone marrow [cellularity ≤15% or marked reduction in bone marrow precursor cells]), or in patients with history of failed stem cell collection.1 2 (See Hematologic Monitoring under Cautions.)


Severe Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Reactions

Severe, sometimes fatal, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, bullous dermatitis, and exfoliative dermatitis reported.1 11 Reaction may be acute (developing within days) or delayed (e.g., 3–4 months).1 11


Patients experiencing a severe cutaneous or mucocutaneous reaction should not receive any further components of the ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen and should promptly seek medical evaluation.1 11


Other Warnings and Precautions


Concomitant Use with Rituximab

When used in therapeutic regimen with rituximab, consider the cautions, precautions, and contraindications associated with rituximab.1


Secondary Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Secondary malignancies (e.g., meningioma, myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myelogenous leukemia) may develop.1 2 6 Median time to diagnosis following treatment in expanded access program or clinical studies was 1.5 or 2.9 years, respectively.1 Cumulative incidence increasing with longer follow-up.1


Risk of developing secondary malignancies not associated with the number of prior treatments.1 14 Multiple cytogenetic abnormalities reported, most commonly involving chromosomes 5 and/or 7.1


Altered Distribution

Do not administer yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan in patients with altered distribution of ibritumomab tiuxetan (as determined by imaging studies with indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan).1 Assess biodistribution with images at 48–72 hours following injection.1


Altered biodistribution of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan is characterized by intense localization of radiotracer in liver, spleen, and bone marrow indicative of reticuloendothelial system uptake or by increased uptake in normal organs not involved by tumor as indicated by diffuse uptake in normal lung more intense than that in liver; greater intensity in kidneys than in liver on posterior view; fixed areas (unchanged with time) of uptake in normal bowel greater than uptake in liver; or prominent bone marrow uptake, characterized by clear visualization of long bones and ribs (seen in <0.5% of patients).1 (See Distribution under Pharmacokinetics.)


Safety and efficacy of administration of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan in patients with prominent bone marrow uptake not established.1 Consider possible causes of prominent bone marrow uptake (e.g., bone marrow involvement by lymphoma, increased marrow activity due to recent hematopoietic growth factor administration, increased reticuloendothelial uptake in patients with human antimurine antibodies [HAMA] and human antichimeric antibody [HACA]); reassess biodistribution after correction of underlying factors.1 Do not administer yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan in patients with persistently prominent marrow uptake on repeat biodistribution scans.1


Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality

Yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan may cause fetal harm.1 Avoid pregnancy during therapy and for up to 12 months following completion of therapy.1 2 If used during pregnancy or if patient becomes pregnant, apprise of potential fetal hazard.1 (See Advice to Patients.)


Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and Viral Diseases

Because indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan and yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan contain albumin human, the preparations carry an extremely remote risk for transmitting viral diseases or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.1 No cases of transmission of viral diseases or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease reported with albumin human.1


Infectious Complications

Risk of severe (e.g., urinary tract infection, febrile neutropenia, sepsis, pneumonia, cellulitis, colitis, diarrhea, osteomyelitis, upper respiratory tract infection) or life-threatening infections (e.g., sepsis, empyema, pneumonia, febrile neutropenia, fever, biliary stent-associated cholangitis); may occur up to 4 years following completion of therapy.1 2


Sensitivity Reactions

Anaphylactic and other hypersensitivity reactions reported following IV administration of proteins.1


Drugs for treatment of hypersensitivity reactions, including epinephrine, antihistamines, and corticosteroids, should be available for immediate use in case of a reaction during administration of ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen.1 4 7


Patients who have received murine proteins should be screened for HAMA.1 Safety not studied in patients with evidence of HAMA; such patients may be at increased risk of allergic or serious hypersensitivity reactions during administration of ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen.1


Radionuclide Precautions

Contents of ibritumomab tiuxetan kits are not radioactive.1 However, employ institutional good radiation safety practices and patient management procedures during and after radiolabeling of ibritumomab tiuxetan with indium 111 or yttrium 90 to minimize exposure of patients and medical personnel to radiation.1


Immunologic Effects

Positive HAMA or HACA responses detected following ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen.1 2 3 6 HAMA/HACA responses develop rarely, are typically transient, and do not increase with time.b


Hematologic Monitoring

Following completion of therapy, monitor CBCs and platelet counts weekly until levels return to normal;2 more frequent monitoring required in patients who develop severe cytopenia or as clinically indicated.1


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category D.1 (See Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality under Cautions.)


Lactation

Not known whether ibritumomab tiuxetan is distributed into milk.1 However, human IgG is excreted in human milk, therefore, manufacturer states ibritumomab would be expected to be present in human milk.b Discontinue nursing or do not administer regimen.b


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established in children <18 years of age.1 2


Geriatric Use

No overall differences relative to younger adults, but increased sensitivity cannot be ruled out.1


Hematologic Impairment

Do not administer ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen to patients with hematologic impairment.1 2 (See Hematologic Effects under Cautions.)


Common Adverse Effects


Thrombocytopenia,1 2 9 neutropenia,1 2 9 anemia,1 2 9 asthenia,1 2 7 9 nausea,1 2 7 9 infection,1 7 chills,1 2 7 9 fever,1 2 7 9 abdominal pain,1 2 7 9 dyspnea,1 2 9 pain,1 2 9 headache,1 2 9 vomiting,1 2 9 throat irritation,1 2 9 dizziness,1 2 9 increased cough.1 2 9


Interactions for Ibritumomab Tiuxetan


No formal drug interaction studies to date.1


Specific Drugs


















Drug



Interaction



Comments



Anticoagulants



Possible increased risk of thrombocytopenia, bleeding, and hemorrhage1



More frequent laboratory monitoring for thrombocytopenia and modification of transfusion practices recommended; weigh risk versus benefit of concomitant administration1



Drugs affecting platelet function



Possible increased risk of thrombocytopenia, bleeding, and hemorrhage1



More frequent laboratory monitoring for thrombocytopenia and modification of transfusion practices recommended;1 weigh risk versus benefit of concomitant administration1



Hematopoietic growth factors



Altered biodistribution of ibritumomab (increased uptake in bone marrow) may occur due to increased marrow activity from recent administration of hematopoietic growth factors1



In clinical studies, use of growth factors was prohibited 2 weeks before and after completion of regimen1



Vaccines



Safety of immunization with live virus vaccines following therapy not studied1


Ability of patients receiving ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen to generate primary or anamnestic humoral response to any vaccine not studied1



Do not administer live viral vaccines for 12 months following the ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimenb


Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Onset


Median number of circulating B cells drops to 0 (range: 0–1084 cells/mm3) at 4 weeks following treatment.1


Distribution


Extent


Binding observed on lymphoid cells of the bone marrow, lymph node, thymus, red and white pulp of the spleen, lymphoid follicles of the tonsil, and lymphoid nodules of other organs (e.g., large and small intestines).1 2 Little or no binding observed on nonlymphoid or gonadal tissues.1 2


Normal distribution is characterized by faintly visible uptake of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan in blood pool areas (i.e., heart, abdomen, neck, extremities); moderately high to high uptake in normal liver and spleen; moderately low or very low uptake in normal kidneys, urinary bladder, and normal (uninvolved) bowel; nonfixed areas within bowel lumen that change position with time; or focal fixed areas of uptake in bowel wall (localized to lymphoid aggregates in bowel wall).1


Human IgG distributed into milk.1 Not known whether ibritumomab tiuxetan is distributed into milk.1


Elimination


Elimination Route


Approximately 7.2% of injected dose of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan is excreted in urine within 7 days.1 2 7


Half-life


Indium 111: physical half-life is 67.3 hours (2.81 days).1


Yttrium 90: physical half-life is 64.1 hours (2.67 days).1 Mean effective half-life in blood is 30 hours; mean area under the fraction of injected activity-time curve in blood is 39 hours.1


Stability


Storage


Parenteral


Injection

Indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan: 2–8°C; do not freeze.1 Administer within 12 hours of radiolabeling.1


Yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan: 2–8°C; do not freeze.1 Administer within 8 hours of radiolabeling.1


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Parenteral


Solution Compatibility1





Compatible



Sodium acetate



Sodium chloride 0.9%


ActionsActions



  • Ibritumomab tiuxetan radiolabeled with indium 111 (indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan) is used for imaging purposes; ibritumomab tiuxetan radiolabeled with yttrium 90 (yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan) is used for radioimmunotherapy.1 2 3 5 7




  • Ibritumomab binds specifically to antigen CD20 (expressed on normal pre-B and mature B lymphocytes and on essentially all B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas),1 2 triggering apoptosis of normal and malignant B cells through complement-dependent cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.1 2




  • Yttrium 90 responsible for the primary cytotoxic effect of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan; induces cellular damage by forming free radicals in target and neighboring cells.1 2




  • Median number of circulating B cells drops to 0 (range: 0–1084 cells/mm3) at 4 weeks following completion of therapy.1 Recovery of B cells begins at approximately 3 months; median levels of B cells return to normal by 9 months.1 2 Median serum concentrations of IgG and IgA remain within normal range throughout the period of B-cell depletion; median serum IgM concentrations decline to below normal values but return to normal by 6 months following treatment.1



Advice to Patients



  • Importance of advising family members and other close contacts to follow standard precautions for minimizing exposure to blood and other body fluids (e.g., saliva, urine, stool).2 7




  • Importance of taking premedications as prescribed.b




  • Importance of promptly seeking medical attention if severe signs or symptoms of an infusion reaction occur.b (See Infusion-related Effects under Cautions.)




  • Importance of promptly seeking medical attention if severe cutaneous or mucocutaneous reaction develops (e.g., diffuse rash, bullae, or desquamation of the skin or oral mucosa).11 b




  • Importance of promptly reporting to a clinician any signs or symptoms of cytopenias (e.g., bleeding, easy bruising, petechiae or purpura, pallor, weakness or fatigue).b




  • Importance of immediately reporting any signs or symptoms of infection (e.g., fever).b




  • Importance of women informing clinicians immediately if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.1 Necessity of advising women to use an effective method of contraception while receiving therapy and for up to 12 months following completion of therapy.1 Necessity of advising pregnant women of risk to the fetus.1 Importance of discontinuing nursing during and after therapy.b




  • Importance of not receiving live viral vaccines for 12 months after completion of the ibritumomab tiuxetan therapeutic regimen.b




  • Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs (e.g., live viral vaccines, medications that interfere with platelet function or coagulation) and dietary or herbal supplements, as well as any concomitant illnesses.1 b (See Interactions.)




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information. (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.


Distribution restricted to qualified and appropriately licensed clinicians and facilities equipped to handle radionuclides (e.g., nuclear pharmacies); not available through community pharmacies.2


Commercially available as 2 separate and distinctly labeled kits (In-111-Zevalin and Y-90-Zevalin) that contain all nonradioactive ingredients necessary to prepare a single dose of indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan and a single dose of yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan.1 Indium 111 chloride must be ordered separately, from either GE Healthcare or Mallinckrodt Inc., at the time the indium In 111 ibritumomab tiuxetan (In-111-Zevalin) kit is ordered; yttrium 90 chloride sterile solution is supplied by MDS Nordion when the yttrium Y 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan (Y-90-Zevalin) kit is ordered.1 Rituximab must be ordered separately.1


















Ibritumomab Tiuxetan

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Parenteral



Kit



1 Vial, 3.2 mg/2 mL, Injection, for preparation of radioactive pharmaceutical, Ibritumomab Tiuxetan (Zevalin; preservative-free)


1 Vial, 50 mM/2 mL, Sodium Acetate Injection (preservative-free)


1 Vial, Buffer Formulation Injection (with albumin; preservative-free)


1 Vial, Reaction Vial (sterile and empty)



Zevalin In-111



Biogen Idec



 



Zevalin Y-90



Biogen Idec



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions October 2009. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.




References



1. Biogen Idec Inc. Zevalin (ibritumomab tiuxetan) injection prescribing information. Cambridge, MA; 2007 Jan.



2. IDEC Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA: Personal communication.



3. Witzig TE. Radioimmunotherapy for patients with relapsed B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2001; 48(Suppl 1):S91-5. [PubMed 11587375]



4. Biogen Idec/Genentech, Inc. Rituxan (rituximab) prescribing information. San Diego/South San Francisco, CA; 2007 Feb 21.



5. Wiseman GA, White CA, Sparks RB et al. Biodistribution and dosimetry results from a phase III prospectively randomized controlled trial of Zevalin radioimmunotherapy for low-grade, follicular, or transformed B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2001; 39:181-94. [PubMed 11418315]



6. Maung K, D’Orazio AI. 6th European Hematology Association Meeting. Frankfurt, Germany. June 21-24, 2001. Clin Lymphoma. 2001; 2:74-9. [PubMed 11712544]



7. Wagner HN Jr, Wiseman GA, Marcus CS et al. Administration guidelines for radioimmunotherapy of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with90Y-labeled anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody. J Nucl Med. 2002; 43:267-72. [IDIS 476756] [PubMed 11850494]



8. Witzig TE, Flinn IW, Gordon LI et al. Treatment with ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy in patients with rituximab-refractory follicular non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. J Clin Oncol.



9. Witzig TE, Gordon LI, Cabanillas F et al. Randomized controlled trial of yttrium-90-labeled ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy versus rituximab immunotherapy for patients with relapsed or refractory low-grade, follicular, or transformed B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. J Clin Oncol. 2002; 20:2453-63. [IDIS 486286] [PubMed 12011122]



10. Wiseman GA, Gordon LI, Multani PS et al. Ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy for relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients with mild thrombocytopenia: a phase II multicenter trial. Blood. 2002; 99.



11. Kooijmans-Coutinho M. Dear healthcare professional letter regarding severe cutaneous or mucocutaneous reactions associated with Zevalin. Cambridge, MA: Biogen Idec; 2005 Oct. From FDA website.



12. Anon. Drugs of choice for cancer. Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2003; 1:41-52.



13. Witzig TE, Molina A, Gordon LI et al. Long-term responses in patients with recurring or refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated with yttrium 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan. Cancer. 2007; 109:1804-10. [PubMed 17380530]



14. Cell Therapeutics, Seattle, WA: Personal communication.



b. Biogen Idec Inc. Zevalin (ibritumomab tiuxetan) injection prescribing information. Cambridge, MA; 2008 Mar.



More Ibritumomab Tiuxetan resources


  • Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Drug Interactions
  • Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Ibritumomab Tiuxetan - Add your own review/rating


Compare Ibritumomab Tiuxetan with other medications


  • Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Asovorin




Asovorin may be available in the countries listed below.


Ingredient matches for Asovorin



Calcium Folinate

Calcium Folinate is reported as an ingredient of Asovorin in the following countries:


  • Argentina

International Drug Name Search