^
Instructions for Use Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, for oral inhalation use
Important Information:
The parts of your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler (see Figure 1):
Each canister of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol contains enough medicine for you to spray your medicine 200 times (See Figure 2a).
Note: Do not place the canister under water to find out the amount of medicine left in the canister.
Preparing your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler for use:
Priming your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler:
Before you use Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol for the first time or if you have not taken your medicine for 3 days in a row, you must prime the inhaler.
If you do not use your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler for more than 3 days, you will need to prime the inhaler again before use.
Using your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler:
Step 1: Take the cap off the mouthpiece of the actuator (See Figure 3). Check inside the mouthpiece for objects. Make sure the canister fits firmly in the actuator.
Step 2: Shake the inhaler well for 5 seconds before use.
Step 3: Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece pointing towards you. Before you put the mouthpiece in your mouth, breathe out through your mouth and push out as much air from your lungs as you can (See Figure 6).
Step 4: Put the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it.
Step 5: While breathing in deeply and slowly, press down on the center of the targeting rings (See Figure 7) until a spray of medicine has been released. Then stop pressing the dose indicator.
Step 6: When you have finished breathing in, remove the mouthpiece from your mouth. Close your mouth and hold your breath for 10 seconds if possible. Then breathe out gently.
Step 7: Wait about 1 minute, then shake the inhaler well. Repeat steps 3 through 6 to take your second spray of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol.
Step 8: Put the cap back on the mouthpiece right away after use.
Make sure the cap snaps firmly into place.
Cleaning your Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler:
Clean the inhaler 1 time each week. It is very important to keep the actuator clean so that medicine will not build up and block the spray from the mouthpiece (See Figure 8).
To clean the actuator:
Step 1: Take the canister out of the actuator (See Figure 9). Do not clean the canister or let it get wet.
Step 2: Take the cap off the mouthpiece.
Step 3: Hold the actuator under the faucet and run warm water through it for at least 30 seconds. Turn the actuator upside down and rinse the actuator again through the mouthpiece for at least 30 seconds (See Figure 10).
Step 4: Shake off as much water from the actuator as you can.
Step 5: Look inside the actuator and mouthpiece to make sure any medicine build-up has been completely washed away. Medicine build-up is more likely to happen if the actuator is not allowed to air-dry completely.
Step 6: Let the actuator air-dry overnight. Do not put the canister back into the actuator if it is still wet.
Step 7: When the actuator is dry, put the canister back in the actuator and put the cap back on the mouthpiece. Make sure to firmly press the canister down in the actuator.
Note: If your actuator becomes blocked, it means that little or no medicine is coming out of the mouthpiece (See Figure 11). Repeat Steps 1 through 7 above in the section “To clean the actuator”.
If you need to use your inhaler before the plastic actuator is completely dry:
How should I store Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol?
Keep Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and all medicines out of the reach of children.
This Patient Information and Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Distributed by: Actavis Pharma, Inc.Parsippany, NJ 07054 USA
© 2017 All rights reserved.
For customer service, call 1-888-394-7377.To report adverse events, call 1-877-737-7226.For medical information, call 1-800-739-0565.
Revised February 2017
10118-02
0
345
^ Paradoxical Bronchospasm
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life-threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy instituted. It should be recognized that paradoxical bronchospasm, when associated with inhaled formulations, frequently occurs with the first use of a new canister.
^ Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Or Tricyclic Antidepressants
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of albuterol on the vascular system may be potentiated. Consider alternative therapy in patients taking MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants.
^ Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use).
Patients should be given the following information:
Frequency of Use
The action of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol should last for 4 to 6 hours. Do not use Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol more frequently than recommended. Instruct patients to not increase the dose or frequency of doses of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol without consulting their physician. If patients find that treatment with Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol becomes less effective for symptomatic relief, symptoms become worse, or they need to use the product more frequently than usual, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Priming, Cleaning and Storage
Priming: SHAKE WELL BEFORE USING. Patients should be instructed that priming Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is essential to ensure appropriate levalbuterol content in each actuation. Patients should prime Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol before using for the first time and in cases where the inhaler has not been used for more than 3 days by releasing 4 test sprays into the air, away from the face.
Cleaning : To ensure proper dosing and prevent actuator orifice blockage, instruct patients to wash the actuator in warm water and air-dry thoroughly at least once a week. Patients should be informed that detailed cleaning instructions are included in the FDA-approved patient labeling.
Storage : Store canister between 20° and 25°C (68° and 77°F). Protect from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight.
Paradoxical Bronchospasm
Inform patients that Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol can produce paradoxical bronchospasm. Instruct patients to discontinue Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol if paradoxical bronchospasm occurs.
Concomitant Drug Use
While patients are using Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, other inhaled drugs and asthma medications should be taken only as directed by the physician.
Common Adverse Reactions
Common adverse effects of treatment with inhaled beta-agonists include palpitations, chest pain, rapid heart rate, tremor, and nervousness.
Pregnancy
Patients who are pregnant or nursing should contact their physicians about the use of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol.
General Information on Use
Effective and safe use of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol includes an understanding of the way that it should be administered.
Shake the inhaler well immediately before each use.
Use Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol only with the actuator supplied with the product. When the dose indicator display window shows a red zone, approximately 20 inhalations are left, and a refill is required. Discard the inhaler when the dose indicator display window shows zero, indicating that 200 sprays have been used. Never immerse the canister in water to determine how full the canister is (“float test”).
In general, the technique for administering Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol to children is similar to that for adults. Children should use Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol under adult supervision, as instructed by the patient’s physician [advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling – (Patient Information and Instructions for Use)].
Distributed by: Actavis Pharma, Inc.Parsippany, NJ 07054 USA
© 2017 All rights reserved.
For customer service, call 1-888-394-7377.To report adverse events, call 1-877-737-7226.For medical information, call 1-800-739-0565.
Revised February 201710118-02
^ Description
The active component of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is levalbuterol tartrate, the (R)-enantiomer of albuterol. Levalbuterol tartrate is a relatively selective beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist [see Clinical Pharmacology (12) ]. Levalbuterol tartrate has the chemical name (R)-α1-[[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]methyl]-4-hydroxy-1,3-benzenedimethanol L-tartrate (2:1 salt), and it has the following chemical structure:
The molecular weight of levalbuterol tartrate is 628.71, and its empirical formula is (C13H21NO3)2 · C4H6O6. It is a white to light-yellow solid, freely soluble in water and very slightly soluble in ethanol.
Levalbuterol tartrate is the generic name for (R)-albuterol tartrate in the United States. Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is a pressurized metered-dose aerosol inhaler (MDI) fitted with a dose indicator, which produces an aerosol for oral inhalation. It contains a suspension of micronized levalbuterol tartrate, propellant HFA-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane), Dehydrated Alcohol USP, and Oleic Acid NF.
After priming with 4 actuations, each actuation of the inhaler delivers 67.8 mcg of levalbuterol tartrate (equivalent to 51.6 mcg of levalbuterol free base) from the valve and 59 mcg of levalbuterol tartrate (equivalent to 45 mcg of levalbuterol free base) from the actuator mouthpiece. Each 15 g canister provides 200 actuations (or inhalations).
^ Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Adult s and Adolescents 12 Years of Age and Older
Adverse reaction information concerning Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in adults and adolescents is derived from two 8-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active- and placebo-controlled trials in 748 adult and adolescent patients with asthma that compared Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, a marketed albuterol HFA inhalation aerosol inhaler, and an HFA-134a placebo inhaler. Table 1 lists the incidence of all adverse reactions (whether considered by the investigator to be related or unrelated to drug) from these trials that occurred at a rate of 2% or greater in the group treated with Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and more frequently than in the HFA-134a placebo inhaler group.
Table 1: Adverse Reaction Incidence (% of Patients) in Two 8-Week Clinical Trials in Adults and Adolescents ≥ 12 Years of Age*
Adverse reactions reported by less than 2% and at least 2 or more of the adolescent and adult patients receiving Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and by a greater proportion than receiving HFA-134a placebo inhaler include cyst, flu syndrome, viral infection, constipation, gastroenteritis, myalgia, hypertension, epistaxis, lung disorder, acne, herpes simplex, conjunctivitis, ear pain, dysmenorrhea, hematuria, and vaginal moniliasis. There were no significant laboratory abnormalities observed in these studies.
Pediatric Patients 4 to 11 Years of Age
Adverse reaction information concerning Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in children is derived from a 4-week, randomized, double-blind trial of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, a marketed albuterol HFA inhaler, and an HFA-134a placebo inhaler in 150 children aged 4 to 11 years with asthma. Table 2 lists the adverse reactions reported for Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in children at a rate of 2% or greater and more frequently than for placebo.
Table 2: Adverse Reaction Incidence (% of Patients) in a 4-Week Clinical Trial in Children 4-11 Years of Age
The incidence of systemic beta-adrenergic adverse reactions (e.g., tremor, nervousness) was low and comparable across all treatment groups, including placebo.
^ Overdosage
The expected symptoms with overdosage are those of excessive beta-adrenergic receptor stimulation and/or occurrence or exaggeration of any of the symptoms listed under Adverse Reactions (6) , e.g., seizures, angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats/minute, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, and sleeplessness. Hypokalemia also may occur. As with all sympathomimetic medications, cardiac arrest and even death may be associated with the abuse of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol. Treatment consists of discontinuation of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol together with appropriate symptomatic therapy. The judicious use of a cardioselective beta-receptor blocker may be considered, bearing in mind that such medication can produce bronchospasm. There is insufficient evidence to determine if dialysis is beneficial for overdosage of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol.
^ Lactation
Risk Summary
There are no available data on the presence of levalbuterol in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol or from the underlying maternal condition.
^ Renal Impairment
Albuterol is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.
^3 Dosage Forms And Strengths
Inhalation aerosol: Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is a pressurized, metered dose aerosol.
Each Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol 15 gram canister contains 200 metered actuations (or inhalations).
Each canister is fitted with a dose indicator and is supplied with a blue plastic actuator mouthpiece and a red mouthpiece cap. After priming, each actuation of the inhaler delivers 59 mcg of levalbuterol tartrate (equivalent to 45 mcg of levalbuterol free base) from the actuator mouthpiece.
^ Bronchospasm Associated With Asthma
Adults and Adolescent Patients 12 Years of Age and Older
The efficacy and safety of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol were established in two 8-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active- and placebo-controlled trials in 748 adults and adolescents with asthma between the ages of 12 and 81 years. In these two trials, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol (403 patients) was compared to an HFA-134a placebo MDI (166 patients), and the trials included a marketed albuterol HFA-134a MDI (179 patients) as an active control. Serial forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) measurements demonstrated that 90 mcg (2 inhalations) of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol produced significantly greater improvement in FEV1 over the pretreatment value than placebo. The results from one of the trials are shown in Figure 1 as the mean percent change in FEV1 from test-day baseline at Day 1 (n=445) and Day 56 (n=387). The results from the second trial were similar.
Figure 1: Percent Change in FEV 1 from Test-Day Baseline in Adults and Adolescents Aged 12 to 81 Years at Day 1 and Day 56
For Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol on Day 1, the median time to onset of a 15% increase in FEV1 ranged from 5.5 to 10.2 minutes and the median time to peak effect ranged from 76 to 78 minutes. In the responder population, on Day 1 the median duration of effect as measured by a 15% increase in FEV1 was 3 to 4 hours, with duration of effect in some patients of up to 6 hours.
Pediatric Patients 4 to 11 Years of Age
The efficacy and safety of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in children were established in a 4-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active- and placebo-controlled trial in 150 pediatric patients with asthma between the ages of 4 and 11 years. In this trial, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol (76 patients) was compared to a placebo HFA-134a MDI (35 patients), and the trial included a marketed albuterol HFA-134a MDI (39 patients) as an active control. Serial FEV1 measurements demonstrated that 90 mcg (2 inhalations) of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol produced significantly greater improvement in FEV1 over the pretreatment value than placebo and were consistent with the efficacy findings in the adult studies.
For Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, on Day 1 the median time to onset of a 15% increase in FEV1 was 4.5 minutes and the median time to peak effect was 77 minutes. In the responder population, the median duration of effect as measured by a 15% increase in FEV1 was 3 hours, with a duration of effect in some pediatric patients of up to 6 hours.
^ Cardiovascular Effects
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, like other beta-adrenergic agonists, can produce clinically significant cardiovascular effects in some patients, as measured by heart rate, blood pressure, and symptoms. Although such effects are uncommon after administration of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol at recommended doses, if they occur, the drug may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, such as flattening of the T-wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST segment depression. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension.
^ Pediatric Use
Pediatric Patients 4 Years of Age and Older
The safety and efficacy of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol have been established in pediatric patients 4 years of age and older in an adequate and well-controlled clinical trial [see Adverse Reactions (6) and Clinical Studies (14) ].
Pediatric Patients less than 4 Years of Age
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is not indicated for pediatric patients less than 4 years of age. A clinical trial in pediatric patients below the age of 4 years showed no statistical significant difference between treatment groups in the primary efficacy endpoint. There was an increased incidence of asthma-related adverse reactions reported in pediatric patients below the age of 4 years treated with Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol compared to placebo.
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol was evaluated in one 4-week, multicenter, randomized, modified-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial of 196 pediatric patients ages birth to < 4 years of age with asthma or reactive airway disease (68 patients birth to < 2 years of age and 128 patients 2 to < 4 years of age). Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol 45 mcg (N=23), Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol 90 mcg (N=42), levalbuterol inhalation solution 0.31 mg (N=63), and placebo HFA (N=68) were administered three times daily. Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol or placebo HFA was delivered with the Monaghan AeroChamber MAX™ Valved Holding Chamber with mask. The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean change in Pediatric Asthma Caregiver Assessment (PACA) total score from baseline over the 4 week treatment period. There was no statistical difference in the change in PACA total score between Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and placebo. Regarding safety, an increased number of treatment-emergent asthma-related adverse reactions were reported in Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol-treated patients. Eight subjects reported asthma-related adverse reactions for Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol compared to 3 subjects for placebo. There was one subject that discontinued treatment due to asthma in the Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol group compared to zero subjects in the placebo group (Table 3). Other adverse reactions were consistent with those observed in the clinical trial population of patients 4 years of age and older [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ].
^ Diuretics
The ECG changes or hypokalemia that may result from the administration of non-potassium-sparing diuretics (such as loop and thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta-agonists, especially when the recommended dose of the beta-agonist is exceeded. Although the clinical significance of these effects is not known, caution is advised in the coadministration of beta-agonists with non-potassium-sparing diuretics. Consider monitoring potassium levels.
^ Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers: Beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents not only block the pulmonary effect of beta-adrenergic agonists, such as Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, but may produce severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. However, under certain circumstances, e.g., as prophylaxis after myocardial infarction, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta-adrenergic blocking agents in patients with asthma. In this setting, cardioselective beta-blockers should be considered, although they should be administered with caution.
^4 Contraindications
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levalbuterol, racemic albuterol, or any other component of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol. Reactions have included urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema.
^ Recommended Dosages
The recommended dosage of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol for adults and children 4 years of age and older is 2 inhalations (90 mcg of levalbuterol free base) repeated every 4 to 6 hours; in some patients, 1 inhalation (45 mcg of levalbuterol free base) every 4 hours may be sufficient. More frequent administration or a larger number of inhalations is not routinely recommended.
If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide the usual response, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires reevaluation of the patient and the treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for anti-inflammatory treatment, e.g., corticosteroids.
^ Digoxin
Mean decreases of 16% to 22% in serum digoxin levels were demonstrated after single-dose intravenous and oral administration of racemic albuterol, respectively, to normal volunteers who had received digoxin for 10 days. The clinical significance of these findings for patients with obstructive airway disease who are receiving Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol and digoxin on a chronic basis is unclear. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to carefully evaluate the serum digoxin levels in patients who are currently receiving digoxin and Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol.
^ Administration Information
For oral inhalation only
^ Animal Toxicology And/or Pharmacology
Propellant HFA-134a
In animals and humans, propellant HFA-134a was found to be rapidly absorbed and rapidly eliminated, with an elimination half-life of 3 to 27 minutes in animals and 5 to 7 minutes in humans. Time to maximum plasma concentration (tmax) and mean residence time are both extremely short, leading to a transient appearance of HFA-134a in the blood with no evidence of accumulation. Based on studies in animals, the propellant HFA-134a had no detectable toxicological activity at amounts less than 380 times the maximum human exposure based on comparisons of AUC values. The toxicological effects observed at these very high doses included ataxia, tremors, dyspnea, or salivation, similar to effects produced by the structurally-related chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in metered-dose inhalers, that were extensively used in the past.
^ How Supplied/storage And Handling
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is supplied as a pressurized aluminum canister in a box:
Each canister is fitted with a dose indicator and is supplied with a blue plastic actuator mouthpiece, a red mouthpiece cap, and patient’s instructions.
Shake well before using. Store between 20° and 25°C (68° and 77°F; see USP controlled room temperature). Protect from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Store inhaler with the actuator mouthpiece down.
Contents under pressure
Do not puncture or incinerate. Do not store near heat or open flame. Exposure to temperatures above 120°F may cause bursting. Never throw container into fire or incinerator. Keep out of reach of children.
The blue actuator supplied with Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol should not be used with any other product canisters. Actuators from other products should not be used with a Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol canister. The correct amount of medication in each actuation cannot be assured after 200 actuations, even though the canister is not completely empty. When the dose indicator display window shows a red zone, approximately 20 inhalations are left, and a refill is required. The canister should be discarded when the dose indicator display window shows zero, indicating that 200 actuations have been used.
Repackaged/Relabeled by:Bryant Ranch Prepack, Inc.Burbank, CA 91504
^ Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant diseases or other drug therapy.
^ Coexisting Conditions
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, hypertension, and cardiac arrhythmias; in patients with convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus; and in patients who are unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines. Clinically significant changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure have been seen in individual patients and could be expected to occur in some patients after the use of any beta-adrenergic bronchodilator.
Large doses of intravenous racemic albuterol have been reported to aggravate preexisting diabetes mellitus and ketoacidosis.
^ Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility
Although there have been no carcinogenesis studies with levalbuterol tartrate, racemic albuterol sulfate has been evaluated for its carcinogenic potential.
In a 2-year study in Sprague-Dawley rats, dietary administration of racemic albuterol sulfate resulted in a significant dose-related increase in the incidence of benign leiomyomas of the mesovarium at doses of 2 mg/kg/day and greater (approximately 30 times the MRHDID) of levalbuterol tartrate for adults and approximately 15 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for children on a mg/m2 basis). In an 18‑month study in CD-1 mice and a 22-month study in the golden hamster, dietary administration of racemic albuterol sulfate showed no evidence of tumorigenicity. Dietary doses in CD-1 mice were up to 500 mg/kg/day (approximately 3800 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for adults and approximately 1800 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for children on a mg/m2 basis) and doses in the golden hamster study were up to 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 500 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for adults on a mg/m2 basis and approximately 240 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for children on a mg/m2 basis).
Levalbuterol HCl was not mutagenic in the Ames test or the CHO/HPRT Mammalian Forward Gene Mutation Assay. Levalbuterol HCl was not clastogenic in the in vivo micronucleus test in mouse bone marrow. Racemic albuterol sulfate was not clastogenic in an in vitro chromosomal aberration assay in CHO cell cultures.
No fertility studies have been conducted with levalbuterol tartrate. Reproduction studies in rats using racemic albuterol sulfate demonstrated no evidence of impaired fertility at oral doses up to 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 750 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for adults on a mg/m2 basis).
^ Hypokalemia
As with other beta-adrenergic agonist medications, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol may produce significant hypokalemia in some patients, possibly through intracellular shunting, which has the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects. The decrease is usually transient, not requiring supplementation.
^ Pharmacokinetics
A population pharmacokinetic model was developed using plasma concentrations of (R)-albuterol obtained from 632 asthmatic patients aged 4 to 81 years in three large trials. For adolescent and adult patients 12 years and older, following 90 mcg dose of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, yielded mean peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC0-6) of approximately 199 pg/mL and 695 pg•h/mL, respectively, compared to approximately 238 pg/mL and 798 pg•h/mL, respectively, following 180 mcg dose of Racemic Albuterol HFA metered-dose inhaler. For pediatric patients from 4 to 11 years of age, following 90 mcg dose of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, yielded Cmax and AUC0-6 of approximately 163 pg/mL and 579 pg•h/mL, respectively, compared to approximately 238 pg/mL and 828 pg•h/mL, respectively, following 180 mcg dose of Racemic Albuterol HFA metered-dose inhaler.
These pharmacokinetic data indicate that mean exposure to (R)-albuterol was 13% to 16% less in adult and 30% to 32% less in pediatric patients given Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol as compared to those given a comparable dose of racemic albuterol. When compared to adult patients, pediatric patients given 90 mcg of levalbuterol have a 17% lower mean exposure to (R)-albuterol.
Metabolism and Elimination
Information available in the published literature suggests that the primary enzyme responsible for the metabolism of albuterol enantiomers in humans is SULT1A3 (sulfotransferase). When racemic albuterol was administered either intravenously or via inhalation after oral charcoal administration, there was a 3- to 4-fold difference in the area under the concentration-time curves between the (R)- and (S)-albuterol enantiomers, with (S)-albuterol concentrations being consistently higher. However, without charcoal pretreatment, after either oral or inhalation administration the differences were 8- to 24-fold, suggesting that (R)-albuterol is preferentially metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract, presumably by SULT1A3.
The primary route of elimination of albuterol enantiomers is through renal excretion (80% to 100%) of either the parent compound or the primary metabolite. Less than 20% of the drug is detected in the feces. Following intravenous administration of racemic albuterol, between 25% and 46% of the (R)-albuterol fraction of the dose was excreted as unchanged (R)-albuterol in the urine.
Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol has not been evaluated.
Renal Impairment
The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of racemic albuterol was evaluated in 5 subjects with creatinine clearance of 7 to 53 mL/min, and the results were compared with those from healthy volunteers. Renal disease had no effect on the half-life, but there was a 67% decline in racemic albuterol clearance. Caution should be used when administering high doses of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol to patients with renal impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
^ Deterioration Of Asthma
Asthma may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If the patient needs more doses of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol than usual, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires reevaluation of the patient and treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for anti-inflammatory treatment, e.g., corticosteroids.
^ Pregnancy
Risk Summary
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in pregnant women. There are clinical considerations with the use of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol in pregnant women [see Clinical Considerations].
Following oral administration of levalbuterol HCl to pregnant rabbits, there was no evidence of teratogenicity at doses up to 25 mg/kg/day [approximately 750 times the maximum recommended human daily inhalation dose (MRHDID) of levalbuterol tartrate for adults on a mg/m2 basis]; however, racemic albuterol sulfate was teratogenic in mice (cleft palate) and rabbits (cranioschisis) at doses slightly higher than the human therapeutic range (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) are unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal control.
Labor or Delivery
Because of the potential for beta-adrenergic agonists to interfere with uterine contractility, the use of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol for the treatment of bronchospasm during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risk.
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol has not been approved for the management of preterm labor. The benefit:risk ratio when levalbuterol tartrate is administered for tocolysis has not been established. Serious adverse reactions, including maternal pulmonary edema, have been reported during or following treatment of premature labor with beta2-agonists, including racemic albuterol.
Data
Animal Data
The oral administration of levalbuterol HCl to pregnant New Zealand White rabbits during the period of organogenesis found no evidence of teratogenicity at doses up to 25 mg/kg/day (approximately 750 times the MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for adults on a mg/m2 basis). In a rat developmental study, a racemic albuterol sulfate (comprising approximately 50% levalbuterol)/HFA-134a formulation administered by inhalation did not produce any teratogenic effects at exposures approximately 160 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 10.5 mg/kg).
However, other developmental studies with the racemic albuterol sulfate, did result in teratogenic effects in mice and rabbits at doses slightly higher than the human therapeutic range. In a rabbit development study, orally administered albuterol sulfate induced cranioschisis in 7 of 19 fetuses (37%) at approximately 1500 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 50 mg/kg). In a mouse developmental study, subcutaneously administered albuterol sulfate produced cleft palate formation in 5 of 111 (4.5%) fetuses at an exposure approximately 2 times MRHDID for adults (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 0.25 mg/kg/day) and in 10 of 108 (9.3%) fetuses at approximately 20 times MRHDID (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day). Similar effects were not observed at approximately 0.2 times MRHDID of levalbuterol tartrate for adults on a mg/m2 basis (i.e., less than the therapeutic dose). Cleft palate also occurred in 22 of 72 (30.5%) fetuses from females treated subcutaneously with isoproterenol (positive control).
^ Bronchospasm
Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults, adolescents, and children 4 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease.
^6 Adverse Reactions
Use of Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol may be associated with the following:
^ Post-marketing Experience
In addition to the adverse reactions reported in clinical trials, the following adverse reactions have been observed in post-approval use of levalbuterol inhalation solution. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. These events have been chosen for inclusion due to their seriousness, their frequency of reporting, or their likely beta-mediated mechanism: angioedema, anaphylaxis, arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, extrasystoles), asthma, chest pain, cough increased, dysphonia, dyspnea, gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GERD), metabolic acidosis, nausea, nervousness, rash, tachycardia, tremor, urticaria.
In addition, Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol, like other sympathomimetic agents, can cause adverse reactions such as hypertension, angina, vertigo, central nervous system stimulation, sleeplessness, headache, and drying or irritation of the oropharynx.
^7 Drug Interactions
Other short-acting sympathomimetic aerosol bronchodilators or epinephrine should not be used concomitantly with Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol. If additional adrenergic drugs are to be administered by any route, they should be used with caution to avoid deleterious cardiovascular effects.
^ Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions
Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur after administration of racemic albuterol, as demonstrated by rare cases of urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema. The potential for hypersensitivity must be considered in the clinical evaluation of patients who experience immediate hypersensitivity reactions while receiving Levalbuterol tartrate HFA inhalation aerosol.
^ Do Not Exceed Recommended Dose
Fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs in patients with asthma. The exact cause of death is unknown, but cardiac arrest following an unexpected development of a severe acute asthmatic crisis and subsequent hypoxia is suspected.
^ Use Of Anti-inflammatory Agents
The use of a beta-adrenergic agonist alone may not be adequate to control asthma in many patients. Early consideration should be given to adding anti-inflammatory agents, e.g., corticosteroids, to the therapeutic regimen.
^ Mechanism Of Action
Activation of beta2-adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle leads to the activation of adenylate cyclase and to an increase in the intracellular concentration of cyclic-3', 5'-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). The increase in cyclic AMP is associated with the activation of protein kinase A, which in turn, inhibits the phosphorylation of myosin and lowers intracellular ionic calcium concentrations, resulting in muscle relaxation. Levalbuterol relaxes the smooth muscles of all airways, from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles. Increased cyclic AMP concentrations are also associated with the inhibition of the release of mediators from mast cells in the airways. Levalbuterol acts as a functional antagonist to relax the airway irrespective of the spasmogen involved, thus protecting against all bronchoconstrictor challenges. While it is recognized that beta2-adrenergic receptors are the predominant receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, data indicate that there are beta-receptors in the human heart, 10% to 50% of which are beta2-adrenergic receptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established [see Warnings and Precautions (5) ]. However, all beta-adrenergic agonist drugs can produce a significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and/or electrocardiographic changes.