Tuesday, October 18, 2016

Zarzio Solution for Injection





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Zarzio 30 MU/0.5 ml solution for injection or infusion in pre-filled syringe


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each ml of solution contains 60 million units (MU) [equivalent to 600 micrograms (μg)] filgrastim*.



Each pre-filled syringe contains 30 MU (equivalent to 300 μg) filgrastim in 0.5 ml.



* recombinant methionylated human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) produced in E. coli by recombinant DNA technology.



Excipient: Each ml of solution contains 50 mg sorbitol (E420).



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for injection or infusion in pre-filled syringe



Clear, colourless to slightly yellowish solution.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



- Reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients treated with established cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy (with the exception of chronic myeloid leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes) and reduction in the duration of neutropenia in patients undergoing myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation considered to be at increased risk of prolonged severe neutropenia.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim are similar in adults and children receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy.



- Mobilisation of peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPC).



- In children and adults with severe congenital, cyclic, or idiopathic neutropenia with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 9/l, and a history of severe or recurrent infections, long term administration of filgrastim is indicated to increase neutrophil counts and to reduce the incidence and duration of infection-related events.



- Treatment of persistent neutropenia (ANC 9/l) in patients with advanced HIV infection, in order to reduce the risk of bacterial infections when other therapeutic options are inappropriate.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Filgrastim therapy should only be given in collaboration with an oncology centre which has experience in granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment and haematology and has the necessary diagnostic facilities.



The mobilisation and apheresis procedures should be performed in collaboration with an oncology-haematology centre with acceptable experience in this field and where the monitoring of haematopoietic progenitor cells can be correctly performed.



Zarzio is available in strengths of 30 MU/0.5 ml and 48 MU/0.5 ml.



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



The recommended dose of filgrastim is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day). The first dose of filgrastim should not be administered less than 24 hours following cytotoxic chemotherapy.



Daily dosing with filgrastim should continue until the expected neutrophil nadir is passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Following established chemotherapy for solid tumours, lymphomas, and lymphoid leukaemias, it is expected that the duration of treatment required to fulfil these criteria will be up to 14 days. Following induction and consolidation treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia the duration of treatment may be substantially longer (up to 38 days) depending on the type, dose and schedule of cytotoxic chemotherapy used.



In patients receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, a transient increase in neutrophil counts is typically seen 1 - 2 days after initiation of filgrastim therapy. However, for a sustained therapeutic response, filgrastim therapy should not be discontinued before the expected nadir has passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Premature discontinuation of filgrastim therapy, prior to the time of the expected neutrophil nadir, is not recommended.



Patients treated with myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation



The recommended starting dose of filgrastim is 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day). The first dose of filgrastim should not be administered less than 24 hours following cytotoxic chemotherapy and within 24 hours of bone marrow infusion.



Dose adjustments: Once the neutrophil nadir has been passed, the daily dose of filgrastim should be titrated against the neutrophil response as follows:












Absolute neutrophil count




Filgrastim dose adjustment




ANC > 1.0 x 109/l for 3 consecutive days




Reduce to 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day)




Then, if ANC remains > 1.0 x 109/l for 3 more consecutive days




Discontinue filgrastim




If the ANC decreases to < 1.0 x 109/l during the treatment period, the dose of filgrastim should be re-escalated according to the above steps


 


Mobilisation of PBPC



Patients undergoing myelosuppressive or myeloablative therapy followed by autologous PBPC transplantation



The recommended dose of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation when used alone is 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) for 5 - 7 consecutive days. Timing of leukapheresis: 1 or 2 leukaphereses on days 5 and 6 are often sufficient. In other circumstances, additional leukaphereses may be necessary. Filgrastim dosing should be maintained until the last leukapheresis.



The recommended dose of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation after myelosuppressive chemotherapy is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day) given daily from the first day after completion of chemotherapy until the expected neutrophil nadir is passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Leukapheresis should be performed during the period when the ANC rises from < 0.5 x 109/l to > 5.0 x 109/l. For patients who have not had extensive chemotherapy, one leukapheresis is often sufficient. In other circumstances, additional leukaphereses are recommended.



There are no prospectively randomised comparisons of the two recommended mobilisation methods (filgrastim alone or in combination with myelosuppressive chemotherapy) within the same patient population. The degree of variation between individual patients and between laboratory assays of CD34+ cells means that direct comparison between different studies is difficult. It is therefore difficult to recommend an optimum method. The choice of mobilisation method should be considered in relation to the overall objectives of treatment for an individual patient.



Normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation



For PBPC mobilisation in normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation, filgrastim should be administered at 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) for 4 - 5 consecutive days. Leukapheresis should be started at day 5 and continued until day 6 if needed in order to collect 4 x 106 CD34+ cells/kg recipient bodyweight (BW).



Severe chronic neutropenia (SCN)



Congenital neutropenia



The recommended starting dose is 1.2 MU/kg/day (12 μg/kg/day) as a single dose or in divided doses.



Idiopathic or cyclic neutropenia



The recommended starting dose is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day) as a single dose or in divided doses.



Dose adjustments



Filgrastim should be administered daily until the neutrophil count has reached and can be maintained at more than 1.5 x 109/l. When the response has been obtained, the minimal effective dose to maintain this level should be established. Long-term daily administration is required to maintain an adequate neutrophil count.



After 1 - 2 weeks of therapy, the initial dose may be doubled or halved depending upon the patient's response. Subsequently the dose may be individually adjusted every 1 - 2 weeks to maintain the average neutrophil count between 1.5 x 109/l and 10 x 109/l. A faster schedule of dose escalation may be considered in patients presenting with severe infections. In clinical studies, 97% of patients who responded had a complete response at doses of



HIV infection



Reversal of neutropenia



The recommended starting dose of filgrastim is 0.1 MU/kg/day (1 μg/kg/day) given daily with titration up to a maximum of 0.4 MU/kg/day (4 μg/kg/day) until a normal neutrophil count is reached and can be maintained (ANC > 2.0 x 109/l). In clinical studies, > 90% of patients responded at these doses, achieving reversal of neutropenia in a median of 2 days.



In a small number of patients (< 10%), doses up to 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) were required to achieve reversal of neutropenia.



Maintenance of normal neutrophil counts



When reversal of neutropenia has been achieved, the minimal effective dose to maintain a normal neutrophil count should be established. Initial dose adjustment to alternate day dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) is recommended. Further dose adjustment may be necessary, as determined by the patient's ANC, to maintain the neutrophil count at > 2.0 x 109/l. In clinical studies, dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) on 1 - 7 days per week was required to maintain the ANC > 2.0 x 109/l, with the median dose frequency being 3 days per week. Long-term administration may be required to maintain the ANC > 2.0 x 109/l.



Special populations



Patients with renal/hepatic impairment



Studies of filgrastim in patients with severe impairment of renal or hepatic function demonstrate that it exhibits a similar pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile to that seen in normal individuals. Dose adjustment is not required in these circumstances.



Paediatric patients in the SCN and cancer settings



In clinical studies 65% of patients treated for SCN were younger than 18 years. For this age-group, which mostly includes patients with congenital neutropenia, efficacy was proven. There were no differences in the safety profiles for paediatric patients treated for SCN in comparison to adults.



Data from clinical studies in paediatric patients indicate that the safety and efficacy of filgrastim are similar in both adults and children receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy.



The dosage recommendations in paediatric patients are the same as those in adults receiving myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy.



Elderly patients



In clinical investigations with filgrastim a small number of elderly patients was included. No specific studies have been performed for this patient population. Therefore, specific posology recommendations for these patients cannot be made.



Method of administration



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



Filgrastim may be administered as a daily subcutaneous injection or alternatively as a daily intravenous infusion over 30 minutes. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6. The subcutaneous route is preferred in most cases. There is some evidence from a study of single dose administration that intravenous dosing may shorten the duration of effect. The clinical relevance of this finding to multiple dose administration is not clear. The choice of route should depend on the individual clinical circumstance. In randomised clinical studies, a subcutaneous dose of 23 MU/m2/day (230 μg/m2/day) or rather 0.4 - 0.84 MU/kg/day (4 - 8.4 μg/kg/day) was used.



Patients treated with myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation



Filgrastim is administered as an intravenous short-term infusion over 30 minutes or as a subcutaneous or intravenous continuous infusion over 24 hours, in each case after dilution in 20 ml of glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6.



Mobilisation of PBPC



Subcutaneous injection.



For the mobilisation of PBPC in patients undergoing myelosuppressive or myeloablative therapy followed by autologous PBPC transplantation the recommended dose of filgrastim may also be administered as a 24 hour subcutaneous continuous infusion. For infusions filgrastim should be diluted in 20 ml of glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6.



SCN/HIV infection



Subcutaneous injection.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Special warnings



Filgrastim should not be used to increase the dose of cytotoxic chemotherapy beyond established posology regimens (see below).



Filgrastim should not be administered to patients with severe congenital neutropenia (Kostmann's syndrome) with abnormal cytogenetics (see below).



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



Malignant cell growth



Since investigations showed that G-CSF can promote growth of myeloid cells in vitro the following warnings should be considered.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim administration in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome, or chronic myelogenous leukaemia have not been established. Therefore filgrastim is not indicated for use in these conditions. Particular care should be taken to distinguish the diagnosis of blast transformation of chronic myeloid leukaemia from acute myeloid leukaemia.



In view of limited safety and efficacy data in patients with secondary AML, filgrastim should be administered with caution.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim administration in de novo AML patients aged < 55 years with good cytogenetics [t(8;21), t(15;17), and inv(16)] have not been established.



Leucocytosis



White blood cell counts of 100 x 109/l or greater have been observed in less than 5% of patients receiving filgrastim at doses above 0.3 MU/kg/day (3 μg/kg/day). No undesirable effects directly attributable to this degree of leucocytosis have been reported. However, in view of the potential risks associated with severe leucocytosis, a white blood cell count should be performed at regular intervals during filgrastim therapy. If leukocyte counts exceed 50 x 109/l after the expected nadir, filgrastim should be discontinued immediately. However, during the period of administration of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation, it should be discontinued or its dose should be reduced if the leukocyte counts rise to > 70 x 109/l.



Risks associated with increased doses of chemotherapy



Special caution should be used when treating patients with high-dose chemotherapy because improved tumour outcome has not been demonstrated and intensified doses of chemotherapeutic agents may lead to increased toxicities including cardiac, pulmonary, neurologic, and dermatologic effects (please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics of the specific chemotherapy agents used).



Treatment with filgrastim alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia due to myelosuppressive chemotherapy. Because of the potential of receiving higher doses of chemotherapy (e.g. full doses on the prescribed schedule) the patient may be at greater risk of thrombocytopenia and anaemia. Regular monitoring of platelet count and haematocrit is recommended. Special care should be taken when administering single or combination chemotherapeutic agents which are known to cause severe thrombocytopenia.



The use of filgrastim-mobilised PBPCs has been shown to reduce the depth and duration of thrombocytopenia following myelosuppressive or myeloablative chemotherapy.



Other special precautions



The effects of filgrastim in patients with substantially reduced myeloid progenitors have not been studied. Filgrastim acts primarily on neutrophil precursors to exert its effect in elevating neutrophil counts. Therefore, in patients with reduced precursors, neutrophil response may be diminished (such as those treated with extensive radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or those with bone marrow infiltration by tumour).



There have been reports of Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD) and fatalities in patients receiving G-CSF after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (see section 5.1).



Mobilisation of PBPC



Prior exposure to cytotoxic agents



Patients who have undergone very extensive prior myelosuppressive therapy, followed by administration of filgrastim for mobilisation of PBPCs, may not show sufficient mobilisation of these blood cells to achieve the recommended minimum yield (6 CD34+ cells/kg) or acceleration of platelet recovery to the same degree.



Some cytotoxic agents exhibit particular toxicities to the haematopoietic progenitor pool and may adversely affect progenitor mobilisation. Agents such as melphalan, carmustine (BCNU) and carboplatin, when administered over prolonged periods prior to attempts at progenitor mobilisation may reduce progenitor yield. However, the administration of melphalan, carboplatin or BCNU together with filgrastim has been shown to be effective for progenitor mobilisation. When a PBPC transplantation is envisaged it is advisable to plan the stem cell mobilisation procedure early in the treatment course of the patient. Particular attention should be paid to the number of progenitors mobilised in such patients before the administration of high-dose chemotherapy. If yields are inadequate, as measured by the criteria above, alternative forms of treatment not requiring progenitor support should be considered.



Assessment of progenitor cell yields



In assessing the number of progenitor cells harvested in patients treated with filgrastim, particular attention should be paid to the method of quantitation. The results of flow cytometric analysis of CD34+ cell numbers vary depending on the precise methodology used and therefore, recommendations of numbers based on studies in other laboratories need to be interpreted with caution.



Statistical analysis of the relationship between the number of CD34+ cells re-infused and the rate of platelet recovery after high-dose chemotherapy indicates a complex but continuous relationship. The recommendation of a minimum yield of 6 CD34+ cells/kg is based on published experience resulting in adequate haematologic reconstitution. Yields in excess of this minimum yield appear to correlate with more rapid recovery, those below with slower recovery.



Normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation



Mobilisation of PBPC does not provide a direct clinical benefit to normal donors and should only be considered for the purposes of allogeneic stem cell transplantation.



PBPC mobilisation should be considered only in donors who meet normal clinical and laboratory eligibility criteria for stem cell donation with special attention to haematological values and infectious disease.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim have not been assessed in normal donors < 16 years or > 60 years.



Transient thrombocytopenia (platelets < 100 x 109/l) following filgrastim administration and leukapheresis was observed in 35% of subjects studied. Among these, two cases of platelets < 50 x 109/l were reported and attributed to the leukapheresis procedure. If more than one leukapheresis is required, particular attention should be paid to donors with platelets < 100 x 109/l prior to leukapheresis; in general apheresis should not be performed if platelets < 75 x 109/l.



Leukapheresis should not be performed in donors who are anticoagulated or who have known defects in haemostasis.



Filgrastim administration should be discontinued or its posology should be reduced if the leukocyte counts rise to > 70 x 109/l.



Donors who receive G-CSFs for PBPC mobilisation should be monitored until haematological indices return to normal.



Transient cytogenetic modifications have been observed in normal donors following G-CSF use. The significance of these changes is unknown.



Long-term safety follow-up of donors is ongoing. Nevertheless, a risk of promotion of a malignant myeloid clone can not be excluded. It is recommended that the apheresis centre perform a systematic record and tracking of the stem cell donors for at least 10 years to ensure monitoring of long-term safety.



Common but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare cases of splenic rupture have been reported in healthy donors and patients following administration of G-CSFs. Some cases of splenic rupture were fatal. Therefore, spleen size should be carefully monitored (e.g. clinical examination, ultrasound). A diagnosis of splenic rupture should be considered in donors and/or patients reporting left upper abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain.



In normal donors, pulmonary adverse events (haemoptysis, pulmonary haemorrhage, pulmonary infiltrates, dyspnoea and hypoxia) have been reported very rarely in post marketing experience. In case of suspected or confirmed pulmonary adverse events, discontinuation of treatment with filgrastim should be considered and appropriate medical care given.



Recipients of allogeneic PBPCs mobilised with filgrastim



Current data indicate that immunological interactions between the allogeneic PBPC graft and the recipient may be associated with an increased risk of acute and chronic GvHD when compared with bone marrow transplantation.



SCN



Blood cell counts



Platelet counts should be monitored closely, especially during the first few weeks of filgrastim therapy. Consideration should be given to intermittent cessation or decreasing the dose of filgrastim in patients who develop thrombocytopenia, i.e. platelets consistently < 100,000/mm3.



Other blood cell changes occur, including anaemia and transient increases in myeloid progenitors, which require close monitoring of cell counts.



Transformation to leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome



Special care should be taken in the diagnosis of SCNs to distinguish them from other haematopoietic disorders such as aplastic anaemia, myelodysplasia, and myeloid leukaemia. Complete blood cell counts with differential and platelet counts, and an evaluation of bone marrow morphology and karyotype should be performed prior to treatment.



There was a low frequency (approximately 3%) of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or leukaemia in clinical study patients with SCN treated with filgrastim. This observation has only been made in patients with congenital neutropenia. MDS and leukaemias are natural complications of the disease and are of uncertain relation to filgrastim therapy. A subset of approximately 12% of patients who had normal cytogenetic evaluations at baseline were subsequently found to have abnormalities, including monosomy 7, on routine repeat evaluation. If patients with SCN develop abnormal cytogenetics, the risks and benefits of continuing filgrastim should be carefully weighed; Filgrastim should be discontinued if MDS or leukaemia occurs. It is currently unclear whether long-term treatment of patients with SCN will predispose patients to cytogenetic abnormalities, MDS or leukaemic transformation. It is recommended to perform morphologic and cytogenetic bone marrow examinations in patients at regular intervals (approximately every 12 months).



Other special precautions



Causes of transient neutropenia, such as viral infections should be excluded.



Splenic enlargement is a direct effect of treatment with filgrastim. 31% of patients in studies were documented as having palpable splenomegaly. Increases in volume, measured radiographically, occurred early during Filgrastim therapy and tended to plateau. Dose reductions were noted to slow or stop the progression of splenic enlargement, and in 3% of patients a splenectomy was required. Spleen size should be evaluated regularly. Abdominal palpation should be sufficient to detect abnormal increases in splenic volume.



Haematuria/proteinuria occurred in a small number of patients. Regular urine analyses should be performed to monitor this event.



The safety and efficacy in neonates and patients with autoimmune neutropenia have not been established.



HIV infection



Blood cell counts



ANC should be monitored closely, especially during the first few weeks of filgrastim therapy. Some patients may respond very rapidly and with a considerable increase in neutrophil count to the initial dose of filgrastim. It is recommended that the ANC is measured daily for the first 2 - 3 days of filgrastim administration. Thereafter, it is recommended that the ANC is measured at least twice per week for the first 2 weeks and subsequently once per week or once every other week during maintenance therapy. During intermittent dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) of filgrastim, there can be wide fluctuations in the patient's ANC over time. In order to determine a patient's trough or nadir ANC, it is recommended that blood samples are taken for ANC measurement immediately prior to any scheduled dosing with filgrastim.



Risk associated with increased doses of myelosuppressive medicinal products



Treatment with filgrastim alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia due to myelosuppressive treatments. As a result of the potential to receive higher doses or a greater number of these medicinal products with filgrastim therapy, the patient may be at higher risk of developing thrombocytopenia and anaemia. Regular monitoring of blood counts is recommended (see above).



Infections and malignancies causing myelosuppression



Neutropenia may be due to bone marrow-infiltrating opportunistic infections such as Mycobacterium avium complex or malignancies such as lymphoma. In patients with known bone marrow-infiltrating infections or malignancy, consider appropriate therapy for treatment of the underlying condition in addition to administration of filgrastim for treatment of neutropenia. The effects of filgrastim on neutropenia due to bone marrow-infiltrating infection or malignancy have not been well established.



Other special precautions



Rare pulmonary adverse reactions, in particular interstitial pneumonia, have been reported after G-CSF administration (see section 4.8). Patients with a recent history of pulmonary infiltrates or pneumonia may be at higher risk. The onset of pulmonary signs, such as cough, fever and dyspnoea in association with radiological signs of pulmonary infiltrates and deterioration in pulmonary function may be preliminary signs of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Filgrastim should be discontinued and appropriate treatment given in these cases.



Monitoring of bone density may be indicated in patients with underlying osteoporotic bone diseases who undergo continuous therapy with filgrastim for more than 6 months.



Sickle cells crises, in some cases fatal, have been reported with the use of filgrastim in subjects with sickle cell disease. Physicians should exercise caution when considering the use of filgrastim in patients with sickle cell disease, and only after careful evaluation of the potential risks and benefits.



Increased haematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been associated with transient positive bone-imaging findings. This should be considered when interpreting bone imaging results.



Excipients



Zarzio contains sorbitol. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not use this medicinal product.



In order to improve the traceability of granulocyte-colony stimulating factors (G-CSFs), the trade name of the administered product should be clearly recorded in the patient file.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim given on the same day as myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy have not been definitively established. In view of the sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells to myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy, the use of filgrastim is not recommended in the period from 24 hours before to 24 hours after chemotherapy. Preliminary evidence from a small number of patients treated concomitantly with filgrastim and 5-fluorouracil indicates that the severity of neutropenia may be exacerbated.



Possible interactions with other haematopoietic growth factors and cytokines have not yet been investigated in clinical studies.



Since lithium promotes the release of neutrophils, lithium is likely to potentiate the effect of filgrastim. Although this interaction has not been formally investigated, there is no evidence that such an interaction is harmful.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



There are no adequate data from the use of filgrastim in pregnant women. There are reports in the literature where the transplacental passage of filgrastim in pregnant women has been demonstrated. There is no evidence from studies in rats and rabbits that filgrastim is teratogenic. An increased incidence of embryo-loss has been observed in rabbits, but no malformation has been seen.



In pregnancy, the possible risk of filgrastim use to the foetus must be weighed against the expected therapeutic benefit.



It is not known whether filgrastim is excreted in human milk, therefore it is not recommended for use in breast-feeding women.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Filgrastim has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The most commonly reported adverse reactions to filgrastim are mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain occurring in more than 10% of patients. Musculoskeletal pain is usually controlled with standard analgesics.



Adverse reactions listed below are classified according to frequency and system organ class. Frequency groupings are defined according to the following convention: Very common (



Table 1. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in cancer patients























































Immune system disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Allergic-type reactions*, including anaphylaxis, skin rash, urticaria, angioedema, dyspnoea and hypotension




Vascular disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Hypotension (transient)



 


Rare:




Vascular disorders* including venoocclusive disease and fluid volume disturbances




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Pulmonary oedema*, interstitial pneumonia*, pulmonary infiltrates*




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Sweet's Syndrome*, cutaneous vasculitis




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




Musculoskeletal pain (mild or moderate)



 


Common:




Musculoskeletal pain (severe)



 


Very rare:




Rheumatoid arthritis exacerbation




Renal and urinary disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Micturition disorders (predominantly dysuria)




Investigations


  

 


Very common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase, blood lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) and blood uric acid increased (reversible, dose-dependent, mild or moderate)



* see below



Table 2. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in normal donors undergoing PBPC mobilisation























































Immune system disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis, angioedema, urticaria, rash




Blood and the lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Very common:



Leucocytosis (WBC > 50 x 109/l), thrombocytopenia (platelets < 100 x 109/l; transient)

 


Common:




Splenomegaly (generally asymptomatic, also in patients)



 


Uncommon:




Spleen disorder



 


Very rare:




Splenic rupture (also in patients)




Nervous system disorders


  

 


Very common:




Headache




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Haemoptysis*, pulmonary haemorrhage*, pulmonary infiltrates*, dyspnoea*, hypoxia*




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




Musculoskeletal pain (mild to moderate, transient)



 


Uncommon:




Rheumatoid arthritis and arthritic symptoms exacerbation




Investigations


  

 


Common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase and LDH increased (transient, minor)



 


Uncommon:




Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and blood uric acid increased (transient, minor)



* see below



Table 3. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in SCN patients









































































Blood and the lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Very common:




Anaemia, splenomegaly (may be progressive in a minority of cases)



 


Common:




Thrombocytopenia



 


Uncommon:




Spleen disorder




Nervous system disorders


  

 


Common:




Headache




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 

Very common:


Epistaxis




Gastrointestinal disorders


  

 


Common:




Diarrhoea




Hepato-biliary disorders


  

 


Common:




Hepatomegaly




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders


  

 


Common:




Cutaneous vasculitis (during long term use), alopecia, rash




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




General musculoskeletal pain, bone pain



 


Common:




Osteoporosis, arthralgia




Renal and urinary disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Haematuria, proteinuria




General disorders and administration site conditions


  

 


Common:




Injection site pain




Investigations


  

 


Very common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase, LDH and blood uric acid increased (transient), blood glucose decreased (transient, moderate)



Table 4. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in HIV Patients









Blood and lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Common:



Zydol SR Tabs 200mg





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Zydol SR 200 mg prolonged-release tablets.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Zydol SR 200 mg prolonged-release tablets



1 prolonged-release tablet contains 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride.



Excipient: Each prolonged-release tablet contains 2.5 mg lactose monohydrate (see section 4.4).



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Prolonged-release tablet.



Round, biconvex, brownish orange coloured film-coated tablets, marked with the manufacturer's logo on one side, marked T3 on the other side.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Treatment of moderate to severe pain.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



The dose should be adjusted to the intensity of the pain and the sensitivity of the individual patient.



Unless otherwise prescribed, Zydol SR should be administered as follows:



Adults and adolescents above the age of 12 years:



The usual initial dose is 50-100 mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily, morning and evening. If pain relief is insufficient, the dose may be titrated upwards to 150 mg or 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily.



For doses not practicable with this strength, other strengths of this medicinal product are available.



The tablets are to be taken whole, not divided or chewed, with sufficient liquid, independent of meals.



The lowest analgesically effective dose should generally be selected. Daily doses of 400 mg active substance should not be exceeded, except in special clinical circumstances.



Zydol SR should under no circumstances be administered for longer than absolutely necessary. If long-term pain treatment with Zydol SR is necessary in view of the nature and severity of the illness, then careful and regular monitoring should be carried out (if necessary with breaks in treatment) to establish whether and to what extent further treatment is necessary.



Children



Zydol SR is not suitable for children below the age of 12 years.



Geriatric patients



A dose adjustment is not usually necessary in elderly patients (up to 75 years) without clinically manifest hepatic or renal insufficiency. In elderly patients (over 75 years) elimination may be prolonged. Therefore, if necessary the dosage interval is to be extended according to the patient's requirements.



Renal Insufficiency/Dialysis and Hepatic Insufficiency



In patients with renal and/or hepatic insufficiency the elimination of tramadol is delayed. In these patients prolongation of the dosage interval should be carefully considered according to the patients requirements. In cases of severe renal and/or severe hepatic insufficiency Zydol SR prolonged-release tablets are not recommended.



4.3 Contraindications



Zydol SR is contraindicated



- in hypersensitivity to tramadol or any of the excipients (see section 6.1),



- in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, analgesics, opioids, or psychotropic medicinal products,



- in patients who are receiving MAO inhibitors or who have taken them within the last 14 days (see section 4.5),



- in patients with epilepsy not adequately controlled by treatment,



- for use in narcotic withdrawal treatment.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Zydol SR may only be used with particular caution in opioid-dependent patients, patients with head injury, shock, a reduced level of consciousness of uncertain origin, disorders of the respiratory centre or function, increased intracranial pressure.



In patients sensitive to opiates the product should only be used with caution.



Care should be taken when treating patients with respiratory depression, or if concomitant CNS depressant drugs are being administered (see section 4.5), or if the recommended dosage is significantly exceeded (see section 4.9) as the possibility of respiratory depression cannot be excluded in these situations.



Convulsions have been reported in patients receiving tramadol at the recommended dose levels. The risk may be increased when doses of tramadol exceed the recommended upper daily dose limit (400 mg). In addition, tramadol may increase the seizure risk in patients taking other medicinal products that lowers the seizure threshold (see section 4.5). Patients with epilepsy or those susceptible to seizures should be only treated with tramadol if there are compelling circumstances.



Tramadol has a low dependence potential. On long-term use tolerance, psychic and physical dependence may develop. In patients with a tendency to drug abuse or dependence, treatment with Zydol SR should only be carried out for short periods under strict medical supervision.



Tramadol is not suitable as a substitute in opioid-dependent patients. Although it is an opioid agonist, tramadol cannot suppress morphine withdrawal symptoms.



This medicinal product contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Zydol SR should not be combined with MAO inhibitors (see section 4.3).



In patients treated with MAO inhibitors in the 14 days prior to the use of the opioid pethidine, life-threatening interactions on the central nervous system, respiratory and cardiovascular function have been observed. The same interactions with MAO inhibitors cannot be ruled out during treatment with Zydol SR.



Concomitant administration of Zydol SR with other centrally depressant medicinal products including alcohol may potentiate the CNS effects (see section 4.8).



The results of pharmacokinetic studies have so far shown that on the concomitant or previous administration of cimetidine (enzyme inhibitor) clinically relevant interactions are unlikely to occur. Simultaneous or previous administration of carbamazepine (enzyme inducer) may reduce the analgesic effect and shorten the duration of action.



The combination with mixed agonist/antagonists (e.g. buprenorphine, nalbuphine, pentazocine) and tramadol is not advisable, because the analgesic effect of a pure agonist may be theoretically reduced in such circumstances.



Tramadol can induce convulsions and increase the potential for selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, tricyclic anti-depressants, anti-psychotics and other seizure threshold lowering medicinal products to cause convulsions.



In isolated cases there have been reports of serotonin syndrome in a temporal connection with the therapeutic use of tramadol in combination with other serotoninergic medicinal products such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or with MAO inhibitors. Signs of serotonin syndrome may be for example confusion, agitation, fever, sweating, ataxia, hyperreflexia, myoclonus and diarrhoea. Withdrawal of the serotoninergic medicinal products usually brings about a rapid improvement. Treatment depends on the nature and severity of the symptoms.



Caution should be exercised during concomitant treatment with tramadol and coumarin derivatives (e.g. warfarin) due to reports of increased INR with major bleeding and ecchymoses in some patients.



Other active substances known to inhibit CYP3A4, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, might inhibit the metabolism of tramadol (N-demethylation) probably also the metabolism of the active O-demethylated metabolite. The clinical importance of such an interaction has not been studied (see section 4.8).



In a limited number of studies the pre- or postoperative application of the antiemetic 5-HT3 antagonist ondansetron increased the requirement of tramadol in patients with postoperative pain.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Animal studies with tramadol revealed at very high doses effects on organ development, ossification and neonatal mortality. Teratogenic effects were not observed. Tramadol crosses the placenta. There is inadequate evidence available on the safety of tramadol in human pregnancy. Therefore Zydol SR should not be used in pregnant women.



Tramadol - administered before or during birth - does not affect uterine contractility. In neonates it may induce changes in the respiratory rate which are usually not clinically relevant. Chronic use during pregnancy may lead to neonatal withdrawal symptoms. During lactation about 0.1 % of the maternal dose is secreted into the milk. Zydol SR is not recommended during breast-feeding. After a single administration of tramadol it is not usually necessary to interrupt breast-feeding.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Even when taken according to instructions, Zydol SR may cause effects such as somnolence and dizziness and therefore may impair the reactions of drivers and machine operators. This applies particularly in conjunction with alcohol and other psychotropic substances.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The most commonly reported adverse reactions are nausea and dizziness, both occurring in more than 10 % of patients.



Cardiovascular disorders:



uncommon ( cardiovascular regulation (palpitation, tachycardia, postural hypotension or cardiovascular collapse). These adverse reactions may occur especially on intravenous administration and in patients who are physically stressed.



rare ( bradycardia, increase in blood pressure



Nervous system disorders:



very common ( dizziness



common ( headache, somnolence



rare ( changes in appetite, paraesthesia, tremor, respiratory depression, epileptiform convulsions, involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal coordination, syncope.



If the recommended doses are considerably exceeded and other centrally depressant substances are administered concomitantly (see section 4.5), respiratory depression may occur.



Epileptiform convulsions occurred mainly after administration of high doses of tramadol or after concomitant treatment with medicinal products which can lower the seizure threshold (see sections 4.4 and 4.5).



Psychiatric disorders:



rare ( hallucinations, confusion, sleep disturbance, anxiety and nightmares. Psychic adverse reactions may occur following administration of Zydol SR which vary individually in intensity and nature (depending on personality and duration of treatment). These include changes in mood (usually elation, occasionally dysphoria), changes in activity (usually suppression, occasionally increase) and changes in cognitive and sensorial capacity (e.g. decision behaviour, perception disorders). Dependence may occur.



Eye disorders:



rare ( blurred vision



Respiratory disorders:



rare (dyspnoea



Worsening of asthma has been reported, though a causal relationship has not been established.



Gastrointestinal disorders:



very common ( nausea



common ( vomiting, constipation, dry mouth



uncommon ( retching; gastrointestinal irritation (a feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea



Skin and subcutaneous disorders:



common ( sweating



uncommon (dermal reactions (e.g. pruritus, rash, urticaria)



Musculoskeletal disorders:



rare ( motorial weakness



Hepatobiliary disorders:



In a few isolated cases an increase in liver enzyme values has been reported in a temporal connection with the therapeutic use of tramadol.



Renal and urinary disorders:



rare (: micturition disorders (difficulty in passing urine, dysuria and urinary retention)



General disorders:



common ( fatigue



rare ( allergic reactions (e.g. dyspnoea, bronchospasm, wheezing, angioneurotic oedema) and anaphylaxis; Symptoms of withdrawal reactions, similar to those occurring during opiate withdrawal, may occur as follows: agitation, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, hyperkinesia, tremor and gastrointestinal symptoms. Other symptoms that have very rarely been seen with tramadol discontinuation include: panic attacks, severe anxiety, hallucinations, paraesthesias, tinnitus and unusual CNS symptoms.



4.9 Overdose



Symptoms



In principle, on intoxication with tramadol symptoms similar to those of other centrally acting analgesics (opioids) are to be expected. These include in particular miosis, vomiting, cardiovascular collapse, consciousness disorders up to coma, convulsions and respiratory depression up to respiratory arrest.



Treatment



The general emergency measures apply. Keep open the respiratory tract (aspiration!), maintain respiration and circulation depending on the symptoms. The stomach is to be emptied by vomiting (conscious patient) or gastric irrigation. The antidote for respiratory depression is naloxone. In animal experiments naloxone had no effect on convulsions. In such cases diazepam should be given intravenously.



Tramadol is minimally eliminated from the serum by haemodialysis or haemo-filtration. Therefore treatment of acute intoxication with Zydol SR with haemodialysis or haemofiltration alone is not suitable for detoxification.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: other opioids; ATC-code N 02 AX 02



Tramadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic. It is a non-selective pure agonist at μ, δ and κ opioid receptors with a higher affinity for the μ receptor. Other mechanisms which contribute to its analgesic effect are inhibition of neuronal reuptake of noradrenaline and enhancement of serotonin release.



Tramadol has an antitussive effect. In contrast to morphine, analgesic doses of tramadol over a wide range have no respiratory depressant effect. Also gastrointestinal motility is less affected. Effects on the cardiovascular system tend to be slight. The potency of tramadol is reported to be 1/10 (one tenth) to 1/6 (one sixth) that of morphine.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



More than 90% of Zydol SR is absorbed after oral administration. The mean absolute bioavailability is approximately 70 %, irrespective of the concomitant intake of food. The difference between absorbed and non-metabolised available tramadol is probably due to the low first-pass effect. The first-pass effect after oral administration is a maximum of 30 %.



Tramadol has a high tissue affinity (V d,ß= 203 + 40 l). It has a plasma protein binding of about 20 %.



After administration of Zydol SR 100 mg the peak plasma concentration Cmax =141 + 40 ng/ml is reached after 4.9 h. After administration of Zydol SR 200 mg Cmax 260 + 62 ng/ml is reached after 4.8 hours.



Tramadol passes the blood-brain and placental barriers. Very small amounts of the substance and its O-desmethyl derivative are found in the breast-milk (0.1 % and 0.02 % respectively of the applied dose).



Elimination half-life t1/2,ß is approximately 6 h, irrespective of the mode of administration. In patients above 75 years of age it may be prolonged by a factor of approximately 1.4.



In humans tramadol is mainly metabolised by means of N- and O-demethylation and conjugation of the O-demethylation products with glucuronic acid. Only O-desmethyltramadol is pharmacologically active. There are considerable interindividual quantitative differences between the other metabolites. So far, eleven metabolites have been found in the urine. Animal experiments have shown that O-desmethyltramadol is more potent than the parent substance by the factor 2 - 4. Its half-life t1/2,ß (6 healthy volunteers) is 7.9 h (range 5.4 - 9.6 h) and is approximately that of tramadol.



The inhibition of one or both types of the isoenzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 involved in the biotransformation of tramadol may affect the plasma concentration of tramadol or its active metabolite. Up to now, clinically relevant interactions have not been reported.



Tramadol and its metabolites are almost completely excreted via the kidneys. Cumulative urinary excretion is 90 % of the total radioactivity of the administered dose. In cases of impaired hepatic and renal function the half-life may be slightly prolonged. In patients with cirrhosis of the liver, elimination half-lives of 13.3 + 4.9 h (tramadol) and 18.5 + 9.4 h (O-desmethyltramadol), in an extreme case 22.3 h and 36 h respectively, have been determined. In patients with renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance < 5 ml/min) the values were 11 + 3.2 h and 16.9 + 3 h, in an extreme case 19.5 h and 43.2 h respectively.



Tramadol has a linear pharmacokinetic profile within the therapeutic dosage range. The relationship between serum concentrations and the analgesic effect is dose-dependent, but varies considerably in isolated cases. A serum concentration of 100 - 300 ng/ml is usually effective.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



On repeated oral and parenteral administration of tramadol for 6 - 26 weeks in rats and dogs and oral administration for 12 months in dogs haematological, clinico-chemical and histological investigations showed no evidence of any substance-related changes. Central nervous manifestations only occurred after high doses considerably above the therapeutic range: restlessness, salivation, convulsions, and reduced weight gain. Rats and dogs tolerated oral doses of 20 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg body weight respectively, and dogs rectal doses of 20 mg/kg body weight without any reactions.



In rats tramadol dosages from 50 mg/kg/day upwards caused toxic effects in dams and raised neonate mortality. In the offspring retardation occurred in the form of ossification disorders and delayed vaginal and eye opening. Male fertility was not affected. After higher doses (from 50 mg/kg/day upwards) females exhibited a reduced pregnancy rate. In rabbits there were toxic effects in dams from 125 mg/kg upwards and skeletal anomalies in the offspring.



In some in-vitro test systems there was evidence of mutagenic effects. In-vivo studies showed no such effects. According to knowledge gained so far, tramadol can be classified as non-mutagenic.



Studies on the tumorigenic potential of tramadol hydrochloride have been carried out in rats and mice. The study in rats showed no evidence of any substance-related increase in the incidence of tumours. In the study in mice there was an increased incidence of liver cell adenomas in male animals (a dose-dependent, non-significant increase from 15 mg/kg upwards) and an increase in pulmonary tumours in females of all dosage groups (significant, but not dose-dependent).



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Zydol SR 200mg tablets contain:



microcrystalline cellulose



hypromellose



magnesium stearate



colloidal anhydrous silica



lactose monohydrate



macrogol 6000



Propylene glycol



talc



titanium dioxide (E171)



quinoline yellow lake (E104)



red iron oxide (E172)



brown iron oxide (E172)



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



5 Years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 30°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



PVC/PVDC/foil blister packs of 2, 4 or 10 tablets. (Sample/starter packs)



PVC/PVDC/foil blister packs of 30 or 60 tablets.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special requirements.



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



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Grünenthal Ltd.



Regus Lakeside House



1 Furzeground Way



Stockley Park East



Uxbridge, Middlesex



UB 11, 1BD



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 21727/0005



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



7th January 1998.



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



22 March 2010




Zestril 2.5mg, 5mg,10mg, and 20mg tablets.






Zestril 2.5 mg Tablets



Zestril 5 mg Tablets



Zestril 10 mg Tablets



Zestril 20 mg Tablets


lisinopril



Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.


  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

  • If any of the side effects get serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.



In this leaflet:


  • 1. What Zestril is and what it is used for

  • 2. Before you take Zestril

  • 3. How to take Zestril

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Zestril

  • 6. Further information




What Zestril is and what it is used for


Zestril contains a medicine called lisinopril. This belongs to a group of medicines called ACE inhibitors.


Zestril can be used for the following conditions:


  • To treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

  • To treat heart failure.

  • If you have recently had a heart attack (myocardial infarction).

  • To treat kidney problems caused by Type II diabetes in people with high blood pressure.

Zestril works by making your blood vessels widen. This helps to lower your blood pressure. It also makes it easier for your heart to pump blood to all parts of your body.




Before you take Zestril



Do not take Zestril if:


  • You are allergic (hypersensitive) to lisinopril or any of the other ingredients of Zestril (listed in Section 6: Further information).

  • You have ever had an allergic reaction to another ACE inhibitor medicine. The allergic reaction may have caused swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips, tongue or throat. It may also have made it difficult to swallow or breathe (angioedema).

  • A member of your family has had severe allergic reactions (angioedema) to an ACE inhibitor or you have had severe allergic reactions (angioedema) without a known cause.

  • If you are more than 3 months pregnant. (It is also better to avoid Zestril in early pregnancy - see Pregnancy section).

Do not take Zestril if any of the above applies to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zestril.


If you develop a dry cough which is persistent for a long time after starting treatment with Zestril, talk to your doctor.




Take special care with Zestril


Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zestril if:


  • You have a narrowing (stenosis) of the aorta (an artery in your heart) or a narrowing of the heart valves (mitral valves).

  • You have a narrowing (stenosis) of the kidney artery.

  • You have an increase in the thickness of the heart muscle (known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

  • You have problems with your blood vessels (collagen vascular disease).

  • You have low blood pressure. You may notice this as feeling dizzy or light-headed, especially when standing up.

  • You have kidney problems or you are having kidney dialysis.

  • You have liver problems.

  • You have diabetes.

  • You have recently had diarrhoea or vomiting (being sick).

  • Your doctor has told you to control the amount of salt in your diet.

  • You have high levels of cholesterol and you are having a treatment called 'LDL apheresis'.

  • You must tell your doctor if you think you are (or might become) pregnant. Zestril is not recommended in early pregnancy, and must not be taken if you are more than 3 months pregnant, as it may cause serious harm to your baby if used at that stage (see Pregnancy section).

  • You are of black origin as Zestril may be less effective. You may also more readily get the side effect 'angioedema' (a severe allergic reaction).

If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Zestril.




Treatment for allergies such as insect stings


Tell your doctor if you are having or are going to have treatment to lower the effects of an allergy such as insect stings (desensitisation treatment). If you take Zestril while you are having this treatment, it may cause a severe allergic reaction.




Operations


If you are going to have an operation (including dental surgery) tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Zestril. This is because you can get low blood pressure (hypotension) if you are given certain local or general anaesthetics while you are taking Zestril.




Taking other medicines


Tell your doctor if you are taking, or have recently taken, any other medicines. This includes medicines that you buy without a prescription.


This is because Zestril can affect the way some medicines work and some medicines can have an effect on Zestril.


In particular, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of the following medicines:


  • Other medicines to help lower your blood pressure.

  • Water tablets (diuretic medicines).

  • Medicines to break up blood clots (usually given in hospital).

  • Beta-blocker medicines, such as atenolol and propranolol.

  • Nitrate medicines (for heart problems).

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and arthritis.

  • Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic acid), if you are taking more than 3 grams each day.

  • Medicines for depression and for mental problems, including lithium.

  • Potassium tablets or salt substitutes that have potassium in them.

  • Insulin or medicines that you take by mouth for diabetes.

  • Medicines used to treat asthma.

  • Medicines to treat nose or sinus congestion or other cold remedies (including those you can buy in the pharmacy).

  • Medicines to suppress the body's immune response (immunosuppressants).

  • Allopurinol (for gout).

  • Procainamide (for heart beat problems).

  • Medicines that contain gold, such as sodium aurothiomalate, which may be given to you as an injection.



Pregnancy and breast-feeding


Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine.



Pregnancy:


You must tell your doctor if you think you are (or might become) pregnant. Your doctor will normally advise you to stop taking Zestril before you become pregnant or as soon as you know you are pregnant and will advise you to take another medicine instead of Zestril. Zestril is not recommended in early pregnancy, and must not be taken when more than 3 months pregnant, as it may cause serious harm to your baby if used after the third month of pregnancy.



Breast-feeding:


Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or about to start breast-feeding. Zestril is not recommended for mothers who are breast-feeding, and your doctor may choose another treatment for you if you wish to breast-feed, especially if your baby is newborn, or was born prematurely.




Driving and using machines


  • Some people feel dizzy or tired when taking this medicine. If this happens to you, do not drive or use any tools or machines.

  • You must wait to see how your medicine affects you before trying these activities.




How to take Zestril


Always take Zestril exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.


Once you have started taking Zestril your doctor may take blood tests. Your doctor may then adjust your dose so you take the right amount of medicine for you.



Taking your medicine


  • Swallow the tablet with a drink of water.

  • Try to take your tablets at the same time each day. It does not matter if you take Zestril before or after food.

  • Keep taking Zestril for as long as your doctor tells you to, it is a long term treatment. It is important to keep taking Zestril every day.



Taking your first dose


  • Take special care when you have your first dose of Zestril or if your dose is increased. It may cause a greater fall in blood pressure than later doses.

  • This may make you feel dizzy or light-headed. If this happens, it may help to lie down. If you are concerned, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible.



Adults


Your dose depends on your medical condition and whether you are taking any other medicines. Your doctor will tell you how many tablets to take each day. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.



For high blood pressure


  • The usual starting dose is 10 mg once a day.

  • The usual long-term dose is 20 mg once a day.


For heart failure


  • The usual starting dose is 2.5 mg once a day.

  • The long-term dose is 5 to 35 mg once a day.


After a heart attack


  • The usual starting dose is 5 mg within 24 hours of your attack and 5 mg one day later.

  • The usual long-term dose is 10 mg once a day.


For kidney problems caused by diabetes


  • The usual dose is either 10 mg or 20 mg once a day.

If you are elderly, have kidney problems or are taking diuretic medicines your doctor may give you a lower dose than the usual dose.




Children


Do not give Zestril to children under 18 years. There is limited information on the safety and effectiveness of Zestril in children.




If you take more Zestril than you should


If you take more Zestril than prescribed by your doctor, talk to a doctor or go to a hospital immediately. The following effects are most likely to happen: Dizziness, palpitations.




If you forget to take Zestril


  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.

  • Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.



If you stop taking Zestril


Do not stop taking your tablets, even if you are feeling well, unless your doctor tells you to.



If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.




Possible side effects


Like all medicines, Zestril can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.


If you experience any of the following reactions, stop taking Zestril and see your doctor immediately:


  • Severe allergic reactions (uncommon, affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000). The signs may include sudden onset of:

    • Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.

      This may make it difficult to swallow.
    • Severe or sudden swelling of your hands, feet and ankles.
    • Difficulty breathing.
    • Severe itching of the skin (with raised lumps).

  • Severe skin disorders, like a sudden, unexpected rash or burning, red or peeling skin (very rare, affects less than 1 user in 10,000).

  • An infection with symptoms such as fever and serious deterioration of your general condition, or fever with local infection symptoms such as sore throat/pharynx/mouth or urinary problems (very rare, affects less than 1 user in 10,000).


Other possible side effects:



Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)


  • Headache.

  • Feeling dizzy or light-headed, especially if you stand up quickly.

  • Diarrhoea.

  • A dry cough that does not go away.

  • Being sick (vomiting).

  • Kidney problems (shown in a blood test).


Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)


  • Mood changes.

  • Change of colour in your fingers or toes (pale blue followed by redness) or numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes.

  • Changes in the way things taste.

  • Feeling sleepy.

  • Spinning feeling (vertigo).

  • Having difficulty sleeping.

  • Stroke.

  • Fast heart beat.

  • Runny nose.

  • Feeling sick (nausea).

  • Stomach pain or indigestion.

  • Skin rash or itching.

  • Being unable to get an erection (impotence).

  • Feeling tired or feeling weak (loss of strength).

  • A very big drop in blood pressure may happen in people with the following conditions: coronary heart disease; narrowing of the aorta (a heart artery), kidney artery or heart valves; an increase in the thickness of the heart muscle. If this happens to you, you may feel dizzy or light-headed, especially if you stand up quickly.

  • Changes in blood tests that show how well your liver and kidneys are working.

  • Heart attack.


Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)


  • Feeling confused.

  • A lumpy rash (hives).

  • Dry mouth.

  • Hair loss.

  • Psoriasis (a skin problem).

  • Changes in the way things smell.

  • Development of breasts in men.

  • Changes to some of the cells or other parts of your blood. Your doctor may take blood samples from time to time to check whether Zestril has had any effect on your blood. The signs may include feeling tired, pale skin, a sore throat, high temperature (fever), joint and muscle pains, swelling of the joints or glands, or sensitivity to sunlight.

  • Sudden renal failure.


Very rare (affect less than 1 user in 10,000)


  • Sinusitis (a feeling of pain and fullness behind your cheeks and eyes).

  • Wheezing.

  • Low levels of sugar in your blood (hypoglycaemia). The signs may include feeling hungry or weak, sweating and a fast heart beat.

  • Inflammation of the lungs. The signs include cough, feeling short of breath and high temperature (fever).

  • Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (jaundice).

  • Inflammation of the liver. This can cause loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and dark coloured urine.

  • Inflammation of the pancreas. This causes moderate to severe pain in the stomach.

  • Severe skin disorders. The symptoms include redness, blistering and peeling.

  • Sweating.

  • Passing less water (urine) than normal or passing no water.

  • Liver failure.

  • Lumps.

  • Inflamed gut.


Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from available data)


  • Symptoms of depression.

  • Fainting.

  • Low levels of sodium in your blood. (The symptoms may be tiredness, headache, nausea, vomiting.)


If any of the side effects get serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.




How to store Zestril


  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

  • Do not use after the expiry date (EXP) which is stated on the blister strip and the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

  • 2.5 mg tablets: Do not store above 25°C.

  • 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg tablets: Do not store above 30°C.

  • Keep your tablets in the container they came in.

  • Medicines should not be disposed of via waste water or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. This will help to protect the environment.



Further information



What Zestril contains


The active substance is lisinopril (as dihydrate).


The other ingredients are mannitol, calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, maize starch, pregelatinised starch and magnesium stearate. In addition, the pink and brownish-red tablets contain red iron oxide (EI72).


Zestril is supplied in 4 strengths containing 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg or 20 mg of lisinopril (as dihydrate).




What Zestril looks like and contents of the pack


Zestril 2.5 mg Tablets: round, white, uncoated, biconvex tablet with "2.5" on one side and plain on the other side. Diameter 6 mm.


Zestril 5 mg Tablets: round, pink, uncoated, biconvex tablet with "5" on one side and bisected on the other side. Diameter 6 mm.


The tablet can be divided into equal halves.


Zestril 10 mg Tablets: round, pink, uncoated, biconvex tablet with "10" on one side and plain on the other side. Diameter 8 mm.


Zestril 20 mg Tablets: round, brownish-red, uncoated, biconvex tablet with "20" on one side and plain on the other side. Diameter 8 mm.


Zestril tablets are available in aluminium foil blister packs of 14, 20, 28, 30, 42, 50, 56, 84, 98, 100, 400 and 500 tablets.


Zestril tablets are also available in bottle packs of 20, 30, 50, 100 and 400 tablets.


Not all pack sizes may be marketed.




Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer


The Marketing Authorisations for Zestril are held by



AstraZeneca UK Ltd

600 Capability Green

Luton

LU1 3LU

UK


Zestril is manufactured by



AstraZeneca UK Limited

Silk Road Business Park

Macclesfield

Cheshire

SK10 2NA

UK



This medicine is authorised in the Member States of the EEA under the following names:


ACEMIN (AT), ACERBON (DE), ZESTRIL (BE, ES, IE, FR, IT, EL, LU, NO, NL, PT, SE, UK).


To listen to or request a copy of this leaflet in Braille, large print or audio please call, free of charge:


0800 198 5000 (UK only)


Please be ready to give the following information:



Product name Reference Number


Zestril 2.5 mg Tablets PL 17901/ 0060

Zestril 5 mg Tablets PL 17901/ 0061

Zestril 10 mg Tablets PL 17901/ 0062

Zestril 20 mg Tablets PL 17901/ 0063


This is a service provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People.




Leaflet last updated: 15 September 2009


© AstraZeneca 2009


Zestril is a trade mark of the AstraZeneca group of companies.


CV 09 0071b



P026784