Safety Profile of ICLUSIG (ponatinib) in the PACE trial

PACE established the safety profile for ICLUSIG in patients with Ph+ ALL1

Adverse Reactions (≥20%) in Patients with Ph+ ALL

Adverse reactions in patients with Ph+ALL who received ICLUSIG include: Rash and related conditions, dry skin, arthralgia, abdominal pain, cons pa on, nausea, vomiting, fatigue or asthenia, fluid retention and edema, pyrexia, headache, hypertension, hemorrhage, cardiac arrhythmias, pneumonia, sepsis, decreased appetite, febrile neutropenia.

aDerived from BP measurement.
bSepsis includes abdominal sepsis, bacteremia, device-related sepsis, escherichia bacteremia, fungemia, klebsiella bacteremia, klebsiella sepsis, neutropenic sepsis, sepsis, septic shock, staphylococcal bacteremia, staphylococcal sepsis, streptococcal bacteremia, and urosepsis. Graded using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v4.03.

Serious Adverse Reactions2

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 69% of patients who received ICLUSIG. Serious adverse reactions in >2% of patients included AOEs (20%), pneumonia (10%), cardiac arrhythmias (8%), pancreatitis/lipase elevation (7%), abdominal pain (6%), cardiac failure (6%), hemorrhage (6%), sepsis (5%), VTEs (5%), fluid retention and edema (4.5%), pyrexia (4.5%), secondary malignancies (5%), anemia (3.3%), hypertension (3.1%), thrombocytopenia (3.1%), febrile neutropenia (2.9%), cellulitis (2.7%), and arthralgia (2.2%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 9% of patients who received ICLUSIG; the most frequent fatal adverse reactions were AOEs (2%), sepsis (1.6%), and hemorrhage (1.3%). 

Arterial Occlusive Events2

26% of 449 patients experienced AOEs, of which 15%, 7%, and 11% experienced cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular AOEs, respectively. Some patients experienced recurrent or multisite vascular occlusion.

  • Grade 3 or 4 AOEs occurred in 14% of patients; the most frequent Grade 3 or 4 AOEs were peripheral arterial occlusive disease (3.1%), myocardial infarction (2%), coronary artery disease (1.6%), and cerebral infarction (1.6%). Fatal AOEs occurred in 9 patients (2%); the most frequent fatal AOE was cardiac arrest (0.9%). 

Discontinuation Rates2

Permanent discontinuation of ICLUSIG due to an adverse reaction occurred in 21% of CP‑CML, 12% of AP-CML, 15% of BP-CML, and 9% of Ph+ ALL patients. The most frequent adverse reactions that led to treatment discontinuation were thrombocytopenia (4.5%) and AOEs (4%).

Please see the full Prescribing Information for a full list of adverse reactions.

Review efficacy in resistant/intolerant Ph+ ALL

PACE data in Ph+ ALL

Discover the convenient dosing schedule for ICLUSIG

Dosing overview

AOE=arterial occlusive effect; AP-CML=accelerated-phase chronic myeloid leukemia; BP=blood pressure; BP‑CML=blast phase chronic myeloid leukemia; CP‑CML=chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia; Ph+ ALL=Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia; VTE=venous thromboembolic event; WBC=white blood cell. 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION, INDICATION, AND USAGE

Expand+

WARNING: ARTERIAL OCCLUSIVE EVENTS, VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLIC EVENTS, HEART FAILURE, and HEPATOTOXICITY

See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.

  • Arterial occlusive events (AOEs), including fatalities, have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. AOEs included fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, stenosis of large arterial vessels of the brain, severe peripheral vascular disease, and the need for urgent revascularization procedures. Patients with and without cardiovascular risk factors, including patients age 50 years or younger, experienced these events. Monitor for evidence of AOEs. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity. Consider benefit-risk to guide a decision to restart ICLUSIG.
  • Venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor for evidence of VTEs. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity.
  • Heart failure, including fatalities, occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor for heart failure and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG for new or worsening heart failure.
  • Hepatotoxicity, liver failure and death have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor liver function tests. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Arterial Occlusive Events (AOEs): AOEs, including fatalities, have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. These included cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular events. In PhALLCON, 6% of 163 patients experienced AOEs; 3.7% experienced Grade 3 or 4. The incidence of AOEs in OPTIC (45 mg → 15 mg) was 14% of 94 patients; 6% experienced Grade 3 or 4. In PACE, the incidence of AOEs was 26% of 449 patients; 14% experienced Grade 3 or 4. Fatal AOEs occurred in 0.6% of patients in PhALLCON, 2.1% of patients in OPTIC, and in 2% of patients in PACE. Some patients in PACE experienced recurrent or multisite vascular occlusion. Patients with and without cardiovascular risk factors, including patients age 50 years or younger, experienced these events. The most common risk factors observed with these events in PACE were history of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and non-ischemic cardiac disease. In PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE, AOEs were more frequent with increasing age.

In PhALLCON, patients with uncontrolled hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, or diabetes were excluded. Patients with clinically significant, uncontrolled, or active cardiovascular disease, including any history of myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular infarction, revascularization procedure, venous thromboembolism, clinically significant atrial/ventricular tachyarrhythmias, unstable angina, or congestive heart failure within the 6 months prior to the first dose of ICLUSIG, were also excluded.

In OPTIC, patients with uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes and patients with clinically significant, uncontrolled, or active cardiovascular disease were excluded.

In PACE, patients with uncontrolled hypertriglyceridemia and patients with clinically significant or active cardiovascular disease within the 3 months prior to the first dose of ICLUSIG were excluded.

Consider whether the benefits of ICLUSIG are expected to exceed the risks. Monitor for evidence of AOEs. Interrupt, then resume at the same or decreased dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity. Consider benefit-risk to guide a decision to restart ICLUSIG.

Venous Thromboembolic Events (VTEs): Serious or severe VTEs have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PhALLCON, VTEs occurred in 12% of 163 patients, including serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) in 3.1% of patients.  One of 94 patients in OPTIC experienced a VTE (Grade 1 retinal vein occlusion). In PACE, VTEs occurred in 6% of 449 patients including serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) VTEs in 5.8% of patients. In PhALLCON and PACE VTEs included deep venous thrombosis, embolism, pulmonary embolism, superficial vein thrombosis, thrombosis, jugular vein thrombosis, superficial thrombophlebitis, retinal vein occlusion, and retinal vein thrombosis with vision loss. The incidence of VTEs in PACE was higher in patients with Ph+ ALL (9% of 32 patients) and BP-CML (10% of 62 patients). Monitor for evidence of VTEs. Interrupt, then resume at the same or decreased dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Heart Failure: Fatal, serious or severe heart failure events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PhALLCON, heart failure occurred in 6% of 163 patients; 1.2% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) heart failure. Heart failure occurred in 13% of 94 patients in OPTIC; 1.1% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4). In PACE, heart failure occurred in 9% of 449 patients; 7% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or higher).  In PhALLCON the most frequently reported heart failure event (>1 patient) was increased brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (2.5%). In OPTIC, the most frequently reported heart failure events (>1 patient each) were left ventricular hypertrophy (3.2%) and BNP increased (3.2%). In PACE, the most frequently reported heart failure events (≥2%) were congestive cardiac failure (3.1%), decreased ejection fraction (2.9%), and cardiac failure (2%). Monitor patients for signs or symptoms consistent with heart failure and manage heart failure as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG for new or worsening heart failure.

Hepatotoxicity: ICLUSIG can cause hepatotoxicity, including liver failure and death. Fulminant hepatic failure leading to death occurred in 3 patients, with hepatic failure occurring within 1 week of starting ICLUSIG in one of these patients. These fatal cases occurred in patients with BP-CML or Ph+ ALL treated with monotherapy. Hepatotoxicity occurred in 66% of 163 patients in PhALLCON, in 28% of 94 patients in OPTIC and in 32% of 449 patients in PACE. Grade 3 or 4 hepatotoxicity occurred in PhALLCON (30% of 163 patients), in OPTIC (6% of 94 patients), and in PACE (13% of 449 patients). The most frequent hepatotoxic events were elevations of ALT, AST, GGT, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase. Monitor liver function tests at baseline, then at least monthly or as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at a reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Hypertension: Serious or severe hypertension, including hypertensive crisis, has occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Patients may require urgent clinical intervention for hypertension associated with confusion, headache, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Monitor blood pressure at baseline and as clinically indicated and manage hypertension as clinically indicated. Interrupt, dose reduce, or stop ICLUSIG if hypertension is not medically controlled. For significant worsening, labile or treatment-resistant hypertension, interrupt ICLUSIG and consider evaluating for renal artery stenosis.

Pancreatitis: Serious or severe pancreatitis has occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Elevations of lipase and amylase also occurred. In the majority of cases that led to dose modification or treatment discontinuation, pancreatitis resolved within 2-3 weeks. Monitor serum lipase every 2 weeks for the first 2 months and then monthly thereafter or as clinically indicated. Consider additional serum lipase monitoring in patients with a history of pancreatitis or alcohol abuse. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity. Evaluate for pancreatitis when lipase elevation is accompanied by abdominal symptoms.

Increased Toxicity in Newly Diagnosed Chronic Phase CML: In a prospective randomized clinical trial in the first-line treatment of newly diagnosed patients with CP-CML, single agent ICLUSIG 45 mg once daily increased the risk of serious adverse reactions 2-fold compared to single agent imatinib 400 mg once daily. The median exposure to treatment was less than 6 months. The trial was halted for safety. Arterial and venous thrombosis and occlusions occurred at least twice as frequently in the ICLUSIG arm compared to the imatinib arm. Compared to imatinib-treated patients, ICLUSIG-treated patients exhibited a greater incidence of myelosuppression, pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity, cardiac failure, hypertension, and skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. ICLUSIG is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed CP-CML.

Neuropathy: Peripheral and cranial neuropathy occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. Some of these events in PhALLCON and PACE were Grade 3 or 4. Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain or weakness. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Ocular Toxicity: Serious or severe ocular toxicity leading to blindness or blurred vision have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. The most frequent ocular toxicities occurring in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE were dry eye, blurred vision, and eye pain. Retinal toxicities included age-related macular degeneration, macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, retinal hemorrhage, and vitreous floaters. Conduct comprehensive eye exams at baseline and periodically during treatment.

Hemorrhage: Fatal and serious hemorrhage events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Fatal hemorrhages occurred in PACE and serious hemorrhages occurred in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. In PACE, the incidence of serious bleeding events was higher in patients with AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL. Intracranial hemorrhage, gastrointestinal hemorrhage and subdural hematoma were the most frequently reported serious hemorrhages. Events often occurred in patients with Grade 4 thrombocytopenia. Monitor for hemorrhage and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Fluid Retention: Fatal and serious fluid retention events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PACE, one instance of brain edema was fatal and serious events included pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, and angioedema. In PhALLCON serious fluid retention included pericardial effusion. The most frequent occurrences of fluid retention in patients who received ICLUSIG were peripheral edema and pleural effusion. Monitor for fluid retention and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Cardiac Arrhythmias: Cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular, atrial arrhythmias, tachycardia, syncope, atrial fibrillation and supraventricular tachycardia occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC, and PACE. For some patients, events were serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) and led to hospitalization. Monitor for signs and symptoms suggestive of slow heart rate (fainting, dizziness) or rapid heart rate (chest pain, palpitations or dizziness) and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Myelosuppression: Grade 3 or 4 events of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. In PACE, the incidence of myelosuppression was greater in patients with AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL treated with monotherapy than in patients with CP-CML. Obtain complete blood counts every 2 weeks for the first 3 months and then monthly or as clinically indicated. If ANC less than 1 x 109/L or platelets less than 50 x 109/L, interrupt ICLUSIG until ANC at least 1.5 x 109/L and platelets at least 75 x 109/L, then resume at same or reduced dose.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS): Serious TLS was reported in ICLUSIG-treated patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. Ensure adequate hydration and treat high uric acid levels prior to initiating ICLUSIG.

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS): RPLS (also known as Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome) has been reported in patients who received ICLUSIG. Patients may present with neurological signs and symptoms, visual disturbances, and hypertension. Diagnosis is made with supportive findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Interrupt ICLUSIG until resolution. The safety of resumption of ICLUSIG in patients upon resolution of RPLS is unknown.

Impaired Wound Healing and Gastrointestinal Perforation: Impaired wound healing occurred in patients receiving ICLUSIG. Withhold ICLUSIG for at least 1 week prior to elective surgery. Do not administer for at least 2 weeks following major surgery and until adequate wound healing. The safety of resumption of ICLUSIG after resolution of wound healing complications has not been established. Gastrointestinal perforation or fistula occurred in patients receiving ICLUSIG. Permanently discontinue in patients with gastrointestinal perforation.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action and findings from animal studies, ICLUSIG can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ICLUSIG and for 3 weeks after the last dose.
 

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions (occurring in >20% of patients) are: 

  • ICLUSIG as a single agent: rash and related conditions, arthralgia, abdominal pain, headache, constipation, dry skin, hypertension, fatigue, fluid retention and edema, pyrexia, nausea, pancreatitis/lipase elevation, hemorrhage, anemia, hepatic dysfunction and AOEs. The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities (>20%) are platelet count decreased, neutrophil cell count decreased, and white blood cell decreased.
  • ICLUSIG in combination with chemotherapy: hepatic dysfunction, arthralgia, rash and related conditions, headache, pyrexia, abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, nausea, oral mucositis, hypertension, pancreatitis/lipase elevation, neuropathy peripheral, hemorrhage, febrile neutropenia, fluid retention and edema, vomiting, paresthesia and cardiac arrhythmias. The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities (>20%) are decreased white blood cell count, decreased neutrophil cell count, decreased platelet count, decreased lymphocyte cell count, decreased hemoglobin, increased lipase and increased alanine aminotransferase.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Takeda Pharmaceuticals at 1-844-217-6468 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Strong CYP3A Inhibitors: Avoid coadministration or reduce ICLUSIG dose if coadministration cannot be avoided.
Strong CYP3A Inducers: Avoid coadministration.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with ICLUSIG and for 1 week following last dose.

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Verify pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating ICLUSIG. Ponatinib may impair fertility in females, and it is not known if these effects are reversible. 

Pre-existing Hepatic Impairment: For patients with CP-CML, AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL receiving monotherapy, reduce the starting dose of ICLUSIG to 30mg orally once daily for patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment as these patients are more likely to experience adverse reactions compared to patients with normal hepatic function. For patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL, no dosage adjustment is recommended. 

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ICLUSIG is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with: 

Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph+ ALL)

  • Newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL in combination with chemotherapy.  
    This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative complete remission (CR) at the end of induction. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s).
  • As monotherapy in Ph+ ALL for whom no other kinase inhibitors are indicated or T315I-positive Ph+ ALL. 

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) 

  • Chronic phase (CP) CML with resistance or intolerance to at least two prior kinase inhibitors. 
  • Accelerated phase (AP) or blast phase (BP) CML for whom no other kinase inhibitors are indicated. 
  • T315I-positive CML (chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blast phase). 

Limitations of Use: ICLUSIG is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed CP-CML.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: ARTERIAL OCCLUSIVE EVENTS, VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLIC EVENTS, HEART FAILURE, and HEPATOTOXICITY

See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.

  • Arterial occlusive events (AOEs), including fatalities, have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. AOEs included fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, stenosis of large arterial vessels of the brain, severe peripheral vascular disease, and the need for urgent revascularization procedures. Patients with and without cardiovascular risk factors, including patients age 50 years or younger, experienced these events. Monitor for evidence of AOEs. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity. Consider benefit-risk to guide a decision to restart ICLUSIG.
  • Venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor for evidence of VTEs. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity.
  • Heart failure, including fatalities, occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor for heart failure and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG for new or worsening heart failure.
  • Hepatotoxicity, liver failure and death have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. Monitor liver function tests. Interrupt or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Arterial Occlusive Events (AOEs): AOEs, including fatalities, have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. These included cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular events. In PhALLCON, 6% of 163 patients experienced AOEs; 3.7% experienced Grade 3 or 4. The incidence of AOEs in OPTIC (45 mg → 15 mg) was 14% of 94 patients; 6% experienced Grade 3 or 4. In PACE, the incidence of AOEs was 26% of 449 patients; 14% experienced Grade 3 or 4. Fatal AOEs occurred in 0.6% of patients in PhALLCON, 2.1% of patients in OPTIC, and in 2% of patients in PACE. Some patients in PACE experienced recurrent or multisite vascular occlusion. Patients with and without cardiovascular risk factors, including patients age 50 years or younger, experienced these events. The most common risk factors observed with these events in PACE were history of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and non-ischemic cardiac disease. In PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE, AOEs were more frequent with increasing age.

In PhALLCON, patients with uncontrolled hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, or diabetes were excluded. Patients with clinically significant, uncontrolled, or active cardiovascular disease, including any history of myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular infarction, revascularization procedure, venous thromboembolism, clinically significant atrial/ventricular tachyarrhythmias, unstable angina, or congestive heart failure within the 6 months prior to the first dose of ICLUSIG, were also excluded.

In OPTIC, patients with uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes and patients with clinically significant, uncontrolled, or active cardiovascular disease were excluded.

In PACE, patients with uncontrolled hypertriglyceridemia and patients with clinically significant or active cardiovascular disease within the 3 months prior to the first dose of ICLUSIG were excluded.

Consider whether the benefits of ICLUSIG are expected to exceed the risks. Monitor for evidence of AOEs. Interrupt, then resume at the same or decreased dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity. Consider benefit-risk to guide a decision to restart ICLUSIG.

Venous Thromboembolic Events (VTEs): Serious or severe VTEs have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PhALLCON, VTEs occurred in 12% of 163 patients, including serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) in 3.1% of patients.  One of 94 patients in OPTIC experienced a VTE (Grade 1 retinal vein occlusion). In PACE, VTEs occurred in 6% of 449 patients including serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) VTEs in 5.8% of patients. In PhALLCON and PACE VTEs included deep venous thrombosis, embolism, pulmonary embolism, superficial vein thrombosis, thrombosis, jugular vein thrombosis, superficial thrombophlebitis, retinal vein occlusion, and retinal vein thrombosis with vision loss. The incidence of VTEs in PACE was higher in patients with Ph+ ALL (9% of 32 patients) and BP-CML (10% of 62 patients). Monitor for evidence of VTEs. Interrupt, then resume at the same or decreased dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Heart Failure: Fatal, serious or severe heart failure events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PhALLCON, heart failure occurred in 6% of 163 patients; 1.2% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) heart failure. Heart failure occurred in 13% of 94 patients in OPTIC; 1.1% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4). In PACE, heart failure occurred in 9% of 449 patients; 7% experienced serious or severe (Grade 3 or higher).  In PhALLCON the most frequently reported heart failure event (>1 patient) was increased brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (2.5%). In OPTIC, the most frequently reported heart failure events (>1 patient each) were left ventricular hypertrophy (3.2%) and BNP increased (3.2%). In PACE, the most frequently reported heart failure events (≥2%) were congestive cardiac failure (3.1%), decreased ejection fraction (2.9%), and cardiac failure (2%). Monitor patients for signs or symptoms consistent with heart failure and manage heart failure as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG for new or worsening heart failure.

Hepatotoxicity: ICLUSIG can cause hepatotoxicity, including liver failure and death. Fulminant hepatic failure leading to death occurred in 3 patients, with hepatic failure occurring within 1 week of starting ICLUSIG in one of these patients. These fatal cases occurred in patients with BP-CML or Ph+ ALL treated with monotherapy. Hepatotoxicity occurred in 66% of 163 patients in PhALLCON, in 28% of 94 patients in OPTIC and in 32% of 449 patients in PACE. Grade 3 or 4 hepatotoxicity occurred in PhALLCON (30% of 163 patients), in OPTIC (6% of 94 patients), and in PACE (13% of 449 patients). The most frequent hepatotoxic events were elevations of ALT, AST, GGT, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase. Monitor liver function tests at baseline, then at least monthly or as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at a reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Hypertension: Serious or severe hypertension, including hypertensive crisis, has occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Patients may require urgent clinical intervention for hypertension associated with confusion, headache, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Monitor blood pressure at baseline and as clinically indicated and manage hypertension as clinically indicated. Interrupt, dose reduce, or stop ICLUSIG if hypertension is not medically controlled. For significant worsening, labile or treatment-resistant hypertension, interrupt ICLUSIG and consider evaluating for renal artery stenosis.

Pancreatitis: Serious or severe pancreatitis has occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Elevations of lipase and amylase also occurred. In the majority of cases that led to dose modification or treatment discontinuation, pancreatitis resolved within 2-3 weeks. Monitor serum lipase every 2 weeks for the first 2 months and then monthly thereafter or as clinically indicated. Consider additional serum lipase monitoring in patients with a history of pancreatitis or alcohol abuse. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on severity. Evaluate for pancreatitis when lipase elevation is accompanied by abdominal symptoms.

Increased Toxicity in Newly Diagnosed Chronic Phase CML: In a prospective randomized clinical trial in the first-line treatment of newly diagnosed patients with CP-CML, single agent ICLUSIG 45 mg once daily increased the risk of serious adverse reactions 2-fold compared to single agent imatinib 400 mg once daily. The median exposure to treatment was less than 6 months. The trial was halted for safety. Arterial and venous thrombosis and occlusions occurred at least twice as frequently in the ICLUSIG arm compared to the imatinib arm. Compared to imatinib-treated patients, ICLUSIG-treated patients exhibited a greater incidence of myelosuppression, pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity, cardiac failure, hypertension, and skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. ICLUSIG is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed CP-CML.

Neuropathy: Peripheral and cranial neuropathy occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. Some of these events in PhALLCON and PACE were Grade 3 or 4. Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain or weakness. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Ocular Toxicity: Serious or severe ocular toxicity leading to blindness or blurred vision have occurred in ICLUSIG-treated patients. The most frequent ocular toxicities occurring in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE were dry eye, blurred vision, and eye pain. Retinal toxicities included age-related macular degeneration, macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, retinal hemorrhage, and vitreous floaters. Conduct comprehensive eye exams at baseline and periodically during treatment.

Hemorrhage: Fatal and serious hemorrhage events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. Fatal hemorrhages occurred in PACE and serious hemorrhages occurred in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. In PACE, the incidence of serious bleeding events was higher in patients with AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL. Intracranial hemorrhage, gastrointestinal hemorrhage and subdural hematoma were the most frequently reported serious hemorrhages. Events often occurred in patients with Grade 4 thrombocytopenia. Monitor for hemorrhage and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Fluid Retention: Fatal and serious fluid retention events have occurred in patients who received ICLUSIG. In PACE, one instance of brain edema was fatal and serious events included pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, and angioedema. In PhALLCON serious fluid retention included pericardial effusion. The most frequent occurrences of fluid retention in patients who received ICLUSIG were peripheral edema and pleural effusion. Monitor for fluid retention and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Cardiac Arrhythmias: Cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular, atrial arrhythmias, tachycardia, syncope, atrial fibrillation and supraventricular tachycardia occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC, and PACE. For some patients, events were serious or severe (Grade 3 or 4) and led to hospitalization. Monitor for signs and symptoms suggestive of slow heart rate (fainting, dizziness) or rapid heart rate (chest pain, palpitations or dizziness) and manage patients as clinically indicated. Interrupt, then resume at the same or reduced dose or discontinue ICLUSIG based on recurrence/severity.

Myelosuppression: Grade 3 or 4 events of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia occurred in patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. In PACE, the incidence of myelosuppression was greater in patients with AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL treated with monotherapy than in patients with CP-CML. Obtain complete blood counts every 2 weeks for the first 3 months and then monthly or as clinically indicated. If ANC less than 1 x 109/L or platelets less than 50 x 109/L, interrupt ICLUSIG until ANC at least 1.5 x 109/L and platelets at least 75 x 109/L, then resume at same or reduced dose.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS): Serious TLS was reported in ICLUSIG-treated patients in PhALLCON, OPTIC and PACE. Ensure adequate hydration and treat high uric acid levels prior to initiating ICLUSIG.

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS): RPLS (also known as Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome) has been reported in patients who received ICLUSIG. Patients may present with neurological signs and symptoms, visual disturbances, and hypertension. Diagnosis is made with supportive findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Interrupt ICLUSIG until resolution. The safety of resumption of ICLUSIG in patients upon resolution of RPLS is unknown.

Impaired Wound Healing and Gastrointestinal Perforation: Impaired wound healing occurred in patients receiving ICLUSIG. Withhold ICLUSIG for at least 1 week prior to elective surgery. Do not administer for at least 2 weeks following major surgery and until adequate wound healing. The safety of resumption of ICLUSIG after resolution of wound healing complications has not been established. Gastrointestinal perforation or fistula occurred in patients receiving ICLUSIG. Permanently discontinue in patients with gastrointestinal perforation.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action and findings from animal studies, ICLUSIG can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ICLUSIG and for 3 weeks after the last dose.
 

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions (occurring in >20% of patients) are: 

  • ICLUSIG as a single agent: rash and related conditions, arthralgia, abdominal pain, headache, constipation, dry skin, hypertension, fatigue, fluid retention and edema, pyrexia, nausea, pancreatitis/lipase elevation, hemorrhage, anemia, hepatic dysfunction and AOEs. The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities (>20%) are platelet count decreased, neutrophil cell count decreased, and white blood cell decreased.
  • ICLUSIG in combination with chemotherapy: hepatic dysfunction, arthralgia, rash and related conditions, headache, pyrexia, abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, nausea, oral mucositis, hypertension, pancreatitis/lipase elevation, neuropathy peripheral, hemorrhage, febrile neutropenia, fluid retention and edema, vomiting, paresthesia and cardiac arrhythmias. The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities (>20%) are decreased white blood cell count, decreased neutrophil cell count, decreased platelet count, decreased lymphocyte cell count, decreased hemoglobin, increased lipase and increased alanine aminotransferase.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Takeda Pharmaceuticals at 1-844-217-6468 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Strong CYP3A Inhibitors: Avoid coadministration or reduce ICLUSIG dose if coadministration cannot be avoided.
Strong CYP3A Inducers: Avoid coadministration.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with ICLUSIG and for 1 week following last dose.

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Verify pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating ICLUSIG. Ponatinib may impair fertility in females, and it is not known if these effects are reversible. 

Pre-existing Hepatic Impairment: For patients with CP-CML, AP-CML, BP-CML, and Ph+ ALL receiving monotherapy, reduce the starting dose of ICLUSIG to 30mg orally once daily for patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment as these patients are more likely to experience adverse reactions compared to patients with normal hepatic function. For patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL, no dosage adjustment is recommended. 

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ICLUSIG is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with: 

Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph+ ALL)

  • Newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL in combination with chemotherapy.  
    This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative complete remission (CR) at the end of induction. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s).
  • As monotherapy in Ph+ ALL for whom no other kinase inhibitors are indicated or T315I-positive Ph+ ALL. 

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) 

  • Chronic phase (CP) CML with resistance or intolerance to at least two prior kinase inhibitors. 
  • Accelerated phase (AP) or blast phase (BP) CML for whom no other kinase inhibitors are indicated. 
  • T315I-positive CML (chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blast phase). 

Limitations of Use: ICLUSIG is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed CP-CML.

Show References
Reference: 1. Cortes JE, Kim DW, Pinilla-Ibarz J, et al. PACE Investigators. N Engl J Med. 2013;369(19):1783-1796. 2. ICLUSIG. Prescribing information. Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A. Inc. 03/2024.