IVACAFTOR: 6,735 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
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Drug Class: Chloride Channel Activation Potentiators [MoA] · Route: ORAL · Manufacturer: Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated · FDA Application: 203188 · HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · FDA Label: Available
Patent Expires: Nov 20, 2027 · First Report: 2005 · Latest Report: 20250911
What Are the Most Common IVACAFTOR Side Effects?
All IVACAFTOR Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hospitalisation | 1,209 | 18.0% | 17 | 1,202 |
| Infective pulmonary exacerbation of cystic fibrosis | 550 | 8.2% | 20 | 445 |
| Infection | 227 | 3.4% | 3 | 122 |
| Malaise | 226 | 3.4% | 5 | 137 |
| Lower respiratory tract infection | 224 | 3.3% | 2 | 212 |
| Pneumonia | 215 | 3.2% | 10 | 184 |
| Death | 203 | 3.0% | 203 | 32 |
| Cough | 180 | 2.7% | 0 | 56 |
| Cystic fibrosis | 167 | 2.5% | 10 | 148 |
| Headache | 163 | 2.4% | 0 | 38 |
| Nasopharyngitis | 151 | 2.2% | 2 | 42 |
| Influenza | 149 | 2.2% | 0 | 87 |
| Pulmonary function test decreased | 121 | 1.8% | 1 | 89 |
| Dyspnoea | 108 | 1.6% | 4 | 62 |
| Abdominal pain upper | 102 | 1.5% | 0 | 27 |
| Haemoptysis | 100 | 1.5% | 3 | 64 |
| Drug dose omission | 98 | 1.5% | 0 | 30 |
| Sinusitis | 98 | 1.5% | 0 | 24 |
| Exposure during pregnancy | 97 | 1.4% | 0 | 27 |
| Vomiting | 97 | 1.4% | 1 | 50 |
Who Reports IVACAFTOR Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 57.1% female, 42.9% male. Average age: 26.5 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is IVACAFTOR Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2012 | 29 | 0 | 7 |
| 2013 | 45 | 1 | 20 |
| 2014 | 260 | 13 | 108 |
| 2015 | 297 | 12 | 142 |
| 2016 | 172 | 3 | 87 |
| 2017 | 334 | 10 | 149 |
| 2018 | 434 | 15 | 217 |
| 2019 | 759 | 15 | 383 |
| 2020 | 570 | 29 | 397 |
| 2021 | 384 | 18 | 273 |
| 2022 | 362 | 21 | 252 |
| 2023 | 342 | 21 | 222 |
| 2024 | 377 | 20 | 205 |
| 2025 | 121 | 4 | 93 |
What Is IVACAFTOR Used For?
| Indication | Reports |
|---|---|
| Cystic fibrosis | 6,594 |
| Product used for unknown indication | 24 |
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | 5 |
IVACAFTOR vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Official FDA Label for IVACAFTOR
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
The active ingredients in ORKAMBI tablets are lumacaftor, which has the following chemical name: 3-[6-({[1-(2,2-difluoro-1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)cyclopropyl]carbonyl}amino)-3-methylpyridin-2-yl]benzoic acid, and ivacaftor, a CFTR potentiator, which has the following chemical name: N -(2,4-di-tert-butyl-5-hydroxyphenyl)-1,4-dihydro-4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxamide. The molecular formula for lumacaftor is C 24 H 18 F 2 N 2 O 5 and for ivacaftor is C 24 H 28 N 2 O 3 . The molecular weights for lumacaftor and ivacaftor are 452.41 and 392.49, respectively. The structural formulas are: lumacaftor ivacaftor Lumacaftor is a white to off-white powder that is practically insoluble in water (0.02 mg/mL). Ivacaftor is a white to off-white powder that is practically insoluble in water (<0.05 µg/mL). ORKAMBI is available as a pink, oval-shaped, film-coated tablet for oral administration containing 200 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor. Each ORKAMBI tablet contains 200 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor, and the following inactive ingredients: cellulose, microcrystalline; croscarmellose sodium; hypromellose acetate succinate; magnesium stearate; povidone; and sodium lauryl sulfate. The tablet film coat contains carmine, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Blue #2, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, talc, and titanium dioxide. The printing ink contains ammonium hydroxide, iron oxide black, propylene glycol, and shellac. ORKAMBI is also available as a pink, oval-shaped, film-coated tablet for oral administration containing 100 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor. Each ORKAMBI tablet contains 100 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor, and the following inactive ingredients: cellulose, microcrystalline; croscarmellose sodium; hypromellose acetate succinate; magnesium stearate; povidone; and sodium lauryl sulfate. The tablet film coat contains carmine, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Blue #2, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, talc, and titanium dioxide. The printing ink contains ammonium hydroxide, iron oxide black, propylene glycol, and shellac. ORKAMBI is also available as white to off-white granules for oral administration and enclosed in a unit-dose packet containing lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg, lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg or lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg per packet. Each unit-dose packet of ORKAMBI oral granules contains lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg, lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg or lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg per packet and the following inactive ingredients: cellulose, microcrystalline; croscarmellose sodium; hypromellose acetate succinate; povidone; and sodium lauryl sulfate.
Chemical Structure Chemical
Structure
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
AND USAGE KALYDECO is indicated for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in patients aged 1 month and older who have at least one mutation in the CFTR gene that is responsive to ivacaftor potentiation based on clinical and/or in vitro assay data [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) and Clinical Studies (14) ] . If the patient's genotype is unknown, an FDA-cleared CF mutation test should be used to detect the presence of a CFTR mutation followed by verification with bi-directional sequencing when recommended by the mutation test instructions for use. KALYDECO is a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) potentiator indicated for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in patients aged 1 month and older who have at least one mutation in the CFTR gene that is responsive to ivacaftor based on clinical and/or in vitro assay data. ( 12.1 , 14 ) If the patient's genotype is unknown, an FDA-cleared CF mutation test should be used to detect the presence of a CFTR mutation followed by verification with bi-directional sequencing when recommended by the mutation test instructions for use. ( 1 )
Dosage & Administration
AND ADMINISTRATION Age Group Weight Dose Administration 1 through 2 years 7 kg to < 9 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg granules Mixed with one teaspoon (5 mL) of soft food or liquid and administered orally every 12 hours with fat-containing food 9 kg to < 14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg granules 2 through 5 years <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg granules 6 through 11 years - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) Taken orally every 12 hours with fat-containing food 12 years and older - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) Reduce dosage in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. ( 2.2 , 8.6 , 12.3 ) When initiating ORKAMBI in patients taking strong CYP3A inhibitors, reduce ORKAMBI dosage for the first week of treatment. ( 2.3 , 7.1 , 12.3 )
2.1 Recommended Dosage in Adults and Pediatric Patients Aged 1 Year and Older The recommended dosage of ORKAMBI in adults and pediatric patients aged one year and older is based on patient's age and weight as described in Table 1.
Table
1: Recommended Oral Dosage of ORKAMBI in Patients Aged 1 Year and Older Age Group Weight ORKAMBI Daily Dose (every 12 hours)
Morning Dose Evening Dose
1 through 2 years 7 kg to <9 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules 9 kg to <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 2 through 5 years <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 6 through 11 years - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 12 years and older - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose)
Administration
Instructions for ORKAMBI Oral Granules The entire content of each packet of oral granules should be mixed with one teaspoon (5 mL) of age-appropriate soft food or liquid and the mixture completely consumed. Some examples of soft foods or liquids include puréed fruits or vegetables, flavored yogurt or pudding, applesauce, water, milk, breast milk, infant formula or juice. Food should be at room temperature or below. Each packet is for single use only. Once mixed, the product has been shown to be stable for one hour, and therefore should be ingested during this period. Administration with Fat-Containing Food for ORKAMBI Tablets and Oral Granules A fat-containing meal or snack should be consumed just before or just after dosing for all formulations. Examples of appropriate fat-containing foods include eggs, avocados, nuts, butter, peanut butter, cheese pizza, breast milk, infant formula, whole-milk dairy products (such as whole milk, cheese, and yogurt), etc.
Missed
Dose If a patient misses a dose and remembers the missed dose within 6 hours, the patient should take the dose with fat-containing food. If more than 6 hours elapsed after the recommended dosing time, the patient should skip that dose and resume the normal schedule for the following dose. A double dose should not be taken to make up for the forgotten dose [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Patient Counseling Information (17) ] .
2.2 Dosage Adjustment for Patients with Hepatic Impairment For dosage adjustment for patients with hepatic impairment, refer to Table 2. Studies have not been conducted in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C), but exposure is expected to be higher than in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. Therefore, use with caution at a maximum dose of 1 tablet in the morning and 1 tablet in the evening or less frequently, or 1 packet of oral granules once daily or less frequently in patients with severe hepatic impairment after weighing the risks and benefits of treatment <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.1) , Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , and Patient Counseling Information (17) ]</span> .
Table
2: Recommended Dosage for Patients with Hepatic Impairment Age Group Weight Morning Dose Evening Dose Mild (Child-Pugh Class A) 1 through 2 years 7 kg to <9 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules 9 kg to <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 2 through 5 years <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 6 through 11 years - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 12 years and older - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) Moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) 1 through 2 years 7 kg to <9 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules every other day 9 kg to <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules every other day ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules every other day 2 through 5 years <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules every other day ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules every other day 6 through 11 years - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 1 tablet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg 12 years and older - 2 tablets of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg (lumacaftor 400 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg per dose) 1 tablet of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg Severe (Child-Pugh Class C) 1 through 2 years 7 kg to <9 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 75 mg/ivacaftor 94 mg oral granules or less frequently. N/A 9 kg to <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 2 through 5 years <14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg oral granules ≥14 kg 1 packet of lumacaftor 150 mg/ivacaftor 188 mg oral granules 6 through 11 years - 1 tablet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg 1 tablet of lumacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg 12 years and older - 1 tablet of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg 1 tablet of lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 125 mg
2.3 Dosage Adjustment for Patients Taking CYP3A Inhibitors No dosage adjustment is necessary when CYP3A inhibitors are initiated in patients already taking ORKAMBI. However, when initiating ORKAMBI in patients currently taking strong CYP3A inhibitors, reduce the ORKAMBI dosage for the first week of treatment based on age as follows <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and Drug Interactions (7.1) ]</span>: 1 through 5 years of age: 1 packet of granules every other day 6 years of age and older: 1 tablet daily Following this one-week period, resume the recommended daily dosage. If ORKAMBI is interrupted for more than one-week and then re-initiated while taking strong CYP3A inhibitors, reduce the ORKAMBI dosage for the first week of treatment re-initiation based on age as follows: 1 through 5 years of age: 1 packet of granules every other day 6 years of age and older: 1 tablet daily Following this one-week period, resume the recommended daily dosage.
Contraindications
None. None. ( 4 )
Known Adverse Reactions
REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label: Use in Patients with Advanced Liver Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Liver-related Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]
Hypersensitivity
Reactions, Including Anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]
Intracranial
Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]
Respiratory
Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Effect on Blood Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Cataracts [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] The most common adverse reactions to ORKAMBI (occurring in ≥5% of patients with CF homozygous for the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene) were dyspnea, nasopharyngitis, nausea, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, fatigue, respiration abnormal, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, rash, flatulence, rhinorrhea, influenza. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated at 1-877-634-8789 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The overall safety profile of ORKAMBI is based on the pooled data from 1108 patients with CF aged 12 years and older who are homozygous for the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene and who received at least one dose of study drug in two double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 clinical trials, each with 24 weeks of treatment (Trials 1 and 2). In addition, the following clinical trials have been conducted: A 24-week, open-label trial (Trial 3) in 58 patients with CF aged 6 through 11 years homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation. A 24-week, placebo-controlled trial (Trial 4) in 204 patients aged 6 through 11 years homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation. A 24-week, open-label trial (Trial 5) in 46 patients aged 12 years and older homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation and with advanced lung disease (ppFEV 1 <40). A 24-week, open-label trial (Trial 6) in 60 patients aged 2 through 5 years homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation. A 24-week, open-label trial (Trial 7) in 46 patients aged 1 through 2 years homozygous for the F508del - CFTR mutation. Of the 1108 patients, in the pooled analyses of Trial 1 and Trial 2, 49% were female and 99% were Caucasian; 369 patients received ORKAMBI every 12 hours and 370 patients received placebo. The proportion of patients who prematurely discontinued study drug due to adverse events was 5% for patients treated with ORKAMBI and 2% for patients who received placebo. Serious adverse reactions, whether considered drug-related or not by the investigators, that occurred more frequently in patients treated with ORKAMBI included pneumonia, hemoptysis, cough, increased blood creatine phosphokinase, and transaminase elevations. These occurred in 1% or less of patients.
Table
3 shows adverse reactions occurring in ≥5% of patients with CF aged 12 years and older treated with ORKAMBI who are homozygous for the F508del mutation in the CFTR gene that also occurred at a higher rate than in patients who received placebo in the two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.
Table
3: Incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions in ≥5% of ORKAMBI-Treated Patients Aged 12 Years and Older Who are Homozygous for the F508del Mutation in the CFTR Gene in 2 Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Clinical Trials of 24 Weeks Duration Adverse Reaction (Preferred Term) ORKAMBI N=369 (%) Placebo N=370 (%)
Dyspnea
48 (13) 29 (8)
Nasopharyngitis
48 (13) 40 (11)
Nausea
46 (13) 28 (8)
Diarrhea
45 (12) 31 (8) Upper respiratory tract infection 37 (10) 20 (5)
Fatigue
34 (9) 29 (8) Respiration abnormal 32 (9) 22 (6) Blood creatine phosphokinase increased 27 (7) 20 (5)
Rash
25 (7) 7 (2)
Flatulence
24 (7) 11 (3)
Rhinorrhea
21 (6) 15 (4)
Influenza
19 (5) 8 (2) The safety profile from two pediatric trials in CF patients aged 6 through 11 years who are homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation, a 24-week, open-label, multicenter safety trial in 58 patients (Trial 3) and a 24-week, placebo-controlled, clinical trial (Trial 4) in 204 patients (103 received lumacaftor 200 mg/ivacaftor 250 mg every 12 hours and 101 received placebo), was similar to that observed in Trials 1 and 2. Adverse reactions that are not listed in Table 3, and that occurred in ≥5% of lumacaftor/ivacaftor-treated patients with an incidence of ≥3% higher than placebo included: productive cough (17.5% vs 5.9%), nasal congestion (16.5% vs 7.9%), headache (12.6% vs 8.9%), abdominal pain upper (12.6% vs 6.9%), and sputum increased (10.7% vs 2.0%). In a 24-week, open-label, multicenter, study in 60 patients aged 2 through 5 years with CF who were homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation (Trial 6) the safety profile was similar to that observed in studies in patients aged 6 years and older [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . In a 24-week, open-label, multicenter, study in 46 patients aged 1 through 2 years with CF who were homozygous for the F508del-CFTR mutation (Trial 7) the safety profile was similar to that observed in studies in patients aged 2 years and older [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . Additional information on selected adverse reactions from trials is detailed below: Description of Selected Adverse Drug Reactions Liver-related Adverse Reactions In Trials 1 and 2, the incidence of maximum transaminase (ALT or AST) levels >8, >5, and >3 × ULN elevations were similar between patients treated with ORKAMBI and those who received placebo. Three patients who received ORKAMBI had liver-related serious adverse reactions, including two reported as transaminase elevations and one as hepatic encephalopathy, compared to none in the placebo group. Of these three, one had elevated transaminases (>3 × ULN) associated with bilirubin elevation >2 × ULN. Following discontinuation or interruption of ORKAMBI, transaminases decreased to <3 × ULN. Among six patients with pre-existing cirrhosis and/or portal hypertension who received ORKAMBI, worsening liver function with increased ALT, AST, bilirubin, and hepatic encephalopathy was observed in one patient. The event occurred within five days of the start of dosing and resolved following discontinuation of ORKAMBI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2) ] . During the 24-week, open-label, clinical trial in 58 patients aged 6 through 11 years (Trial 3), the incidence of maximum transaminase (ALT or AST) levels >8, >5, and >3 × ULN was 5%, 9%, and 19%. No patients had total bilirubin levels >2 × ULN. Lumacaftor/ivacaftor dosing was maintained or successfully resumed after interruption in all patients with transaminase elevations, except one patient who discontinued treatment permanently. During the 24-week, placebo-controlled, clinical trial in 204 patients aged 6 through 11 years (Trial 4), the incidence of maximum transaminase (ALT or AST) levels >8, >5, and >3 × ULN was 1%, 5%, and 13% in the lumacaftor/ivacaftor patients, and 2%, 3%, and 8% in the placebo-treated patients. No patients had total bilirubin levels >2 × ULN. Two patients in the lumacaftor/ivacaftor group and two patients in the placebo group discontinued treatment permanently due to transaminase elevations. During the 24-week, open-label, clinical trial in 60 patients aged 2 through 5 years (Trial 6), the incidence of maximum transaminase (ALT or AST) levels >8, >5, and >3 × ULN was 8.3% (5/60), 11.7% (7/60), and 15.0% (9/60). No patients had total bilirubin levels >2 × ULN. Three patients discontinued lumacaftor/ivacaftor treatment permanently due to transaminase elevations. During the 24-week, open-label, clinical trial in 46 patients aged 1 through 2 years (Trial 7), the incidence of maximum transaminase (ALT or AST) levels >8, >5, and >3 × ULN was 2.2% (1/46), 4.3% (2/46), and 10.9% (5/46), respectively. No patients had total bilirubin levels >2 × ULN. One patient discontinued lumacaftor/ivacaftor treatment permanently due to transaminase elevations.
Respiratory Adverse Reactions In Trials
1 and 2, the incidence of respiratory symptom-related adverse reactions (e.g., chest discomfort, dyspnea, and respiration abnormal) was more common in patients treated with ORKAMBI (22%) compared to patients who received placebo (14%). The incidence of these adverse reactions was more common in patients treated with ORKAMBI with lower pre-treatment FEV 1 . In patients treated with ORKAMBI, the majority of the events began during the first week of treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . During the 24-week, open-label, clinical trial in 46 patients aged 12 years and older (Trial 5) with advanced lung disease (ppFEV 1 <40) [mean ppFEV 1 29.1 at baseline (range: 18.3 to 42.0)], the incidence of respiratory symptom-related adverse reactions was 65% [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . During the 24-week, open-label, clinical trial (Trial 3) in 58 patients aged 6 through 11 years (mean baseline ppFEV 1 was 91.4), the incidence of respiratory symptom-related adverse reactions was 3% (2/58). During the 24-week, placebo-controlled, clinical trial (Trial 4) in patients aged 6 through 11 years [mean ppFEV 1 89.8 at baseline (range: 48.6 to 119.6)], the incidence of respiratory symptom-related adverse reactions was 11% in lumacaftor/ivacaftor patients and 9% in placebo patients. A decline in ppFEV 1 at initiation of therapy was observed during serial post-dose spirometry assessments. The absolute change from pre-dose at 4-6 hours post-dose was -7.7 on Day 1 and -1.3 on Day 15 in lumacaftor/ivacaftor patients. The post-dose decline was resolved by Week 16.
Menstrual Abnormalities In Trials
1 and 2, the incidence of combined menstrual abnormality adverse reactions (e.g., amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, menstrual irregular) was more common in female patients treated with ORKAMBI (10%) compared to placebo (2%). These events occurred more frequently in the subset of female patients treated with ORKAMBI who were using hormonal contraceptives (27%) compared to those not using hormonal contraceptives (3%) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Drug Interactions (7.11) ] .
Increased Blood Pressure In Trials
1 and 2, adverse reactions related to increases in blood pressure (e.g., hypertension, blood pressure increased) were reported in 1.1% (4/369) of patients treated with ORKAMBI and in no patients who received placebo. The proportion of patients who experienced a systolic blood pressure value >140 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure >90 mmHg on at least two occasions was 3.6% and 2.2% in patients treated with ORKAMBI, respectively, compared with 1.6% and 0.5% in patients who received placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] .
6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of ORKAMBI. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Hepatobiliary : liver function decompensation including liver failure leading to death in patients with pre-existing cirrhosis with portal hypertension <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]</span> .
Immune System
Disorders : anaphylaxis, angioedema Nervous System Disorders : intracranial hypertension
Warnings
AND PRECAUTIONS Use in patients with advanced liver disease: ORKAMBI should be used with caution in these patients and only if the benefits are expected to outweigh the risks. If ORKAMBI is used in these patients, they should be closely monitored after the initiation of treatment and the dosage should be reduced. Liver function decompensation, including liver failure leading to death, has been reported in CF patients with pre-existing cirrhosis with portal hypertension. ( 2.2 , 5.1 , 6.1 ) Liver-related events: Elevated transaminases (ALT/AST) have been observed in some cases associated with elevated bilirubin. Measure serum transaminases and bilirubin before initiating ORKAMBI, every 3 months during the first year of treatment, and annually thereafter. For patients with a history of ALT, AST, or bilirubin elevations, more frequent monitoring should be considered. Interrupt dosing in patients with ALT or AST >5 × upper limit of normal (ULN), or ALT or AST >3 × ULN with bilirubin >2 × ULN. Following resolution, consider the benefits and risks of resuming dosing. ( 5.2 , 6.1 ) Hypersensitivity reactions: Angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported with ORKAMBI in the postmarketing setting. Initiate appropriate therapy in the event of a hypersensitivity reaction. ( 5.3 ) Intracranial hypertension: Intracranial hypertension (IH) has been reported in the postmarketing setting with the use of ORKAMBI. If an unusual headache or visual disturbances occur during treatment, and IH is suspected, interrupt ORKAMBI and refer for prompt medical evaluation. ( 5.4 ) Respiratory events: Chest discomfort, dyspnea, and respiration abnormal were observed more commonly during initiation of ORKAMBI. Clinical experience in patients with percent predicted FEV 1 (ppFEV 1 ) <40 is limited, and additional monitoring of these patients is recommended during initiation of therapy. ( 5.5 , 6.1 ) Blood pressure: Increased blood pressure has been observed in some patients. Periodically monitor blood pressure in all patients. ( 5.6 , 6.1 ) Drug interactions: Use with sensitive CYP3A substrates or CYP3A substrates with a narrow therapeutic index may decrease systemic exposure of the medicinal products and co-administration is not recommended. Hormonal contraceptives should not be relied upon as an effective method of contraception and their use is associated with increased menstruation-related adverse reactions. Use with strong CYP3A inducers may diminish exposure of ivacaftor, which may diminish its effectiveness; therefore, co-administration is not recommended. ( 5.7 , 6.1 , 7 , 12.3 ) Cataracts: Non-congenital lens opacities/cataracts have been reported in pediatric patients treated with ORKAMBI and ivacaftor, a component of ORKAMBI. Baseline and follow-up examinations are recommended in pediatric patients initiating ORKAMBI. ( 5.8 )
5.1 Use in Patients with Advanced Liver Disease Worsening of liver function, including hepatic encephalopathy, in patients with advanced liver disease has been reported. Liver function decompensation, including liver failure leading to death, has been reported in CF patients with pre-existing cirrhosis with portal hypertension while receiving ORKAMBI. Use ORKAMBI with caution in patients with advanced liver disease and only if the benefits are expected to outweigh the risks. If ORKAMBI is used in these patients, they should be closely monitored after the initiation of treatment and the dosage should be reduced <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span> .
5.2 Liver-related Events Serious adverse reactions related to elevated transaminases have been reported in patients with CF receiving ORKAMBI. In some instances, these elevations have been associated with concomitant elevations in total serum bilirubin. It is recommended that ALT, AST, and bilirubin be assessed prior to initiating ORKAMBI, every 3 months during the first year of treatment, and annually thereafter. For patients with a history of ALT, AST, or bilirubin elevations, more frequent monitoring should be considered. Patients who develop increased ALT, AST, or bilirubin should be closely monitored until the abnormalities resolve. Dosing should be interrupted in patients with ALT or AST >5 × upper limit of normal (ULN) when not associated with elevated bilirubin. Dosing should also be interrupted in patients with ALT or AST elevations >3 × ULN when associated with bilirubin elevations >2 × ULN. Following resolution of transaminase elevations, consider the benefits and risks of resuming dosing <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span> .
5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions, Including Anaphylaxis Hypersensitivity reactions, including cases of angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported in the postmarketing setting <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]</span> . If signs or symptoms of serious hypersensitivity reactions develop during treatment, discontinue ORKAMBI and institute appropriate therapy. Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient to determine whether to resume treatment with ORKAMBI.
5.4 Intracranial Hypertension Cases of intracranial hypertension (IH) have been reported in the postmarketing setting with the use of ORKAMBI <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]</span> . Clinical manifestations of IH include headache, blurred vision, diplopia, and potential vision loss; papilledema can be found on fundoscopy. If an unusual headache or visual disturbances occur during treatment, and IH is suspected, interrupt ORKAMBI and refer for prompt medical evaluation. Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient to determine whether to resume treatment with ORKAMBI. Patients should be monitored until IH resolution and for recurrence. Patients with elevated vitamin A levels may be at increased risk.
5.5 Respiratory Events Respiratory events (e.g., chest discomfort, dyspnea, and respiration abnormal) were observed more commonly in patients during initiation of ORKAMBI compared to those who received placebo. These events have led to drug discontinuation and can be serious, particularly in patients with advanced lung disease (percent predicted FEV 1 <40). Clinical experience in patients with ppFEV 1 <40 is limited, and additional monitoring of these patients is recommended during initiation of therapy <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span> .
5.6 Effect on Blood Pressure Increased blood pressure has been observed in some patients treated with ORKAMBI. Blood pressure should be monitored periodically in all patients being treated with ORKAMBI <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span> .
5.7 Drug Interactions Substrates of CYP3A Lumacaftor is a strong inducer of CYP3A. Administration of ORKAMBI may decrease systemic exposure of medicinal products that are substrates of CYP3A, which may decrease therapeutic effect. Co-administration with sensitive CYP3A substrates or CYP3A substrates with a narrow therapeutic index is not recommended. ORKAMBI may substantially decrease hormonal contraceptive exposure, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the incidence of menstruation-associated adverse reactions, e.g., amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, menstrual irregular (27% in women using hormonal contraceptives compared with 3% in women not using hormonal contraceptives). Hormonal contraceptives, including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable, should not be relied upon as an effective method of contraception when co-administered with ORKAMBI <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Drug Interactions (7.3 , 7.11) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . Strong CYP3A Inducers Ivacaftor is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 isoenzymes. Use of ORKAMBI with strong CYP3A inducers, such as rifampin, significantly reduces ivacaftor exposure, which may reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of ORKAMBI. Therefore, co-administration with strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, St. John's wort [ Hypericum perforatum ]) is not recommended <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> .
5.8 Cataracts Cases of non-congenital lens opacities have been reported in pediatric patients treated with ORKAMBI and ivacaftor, a component of ORKAMBI. Although other risk factors were present in some cases (such as corticosteroid use and exposure to radiation), a possible risk attributable to ivacaftor cannot be excluded <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ]</span> . Baseline and follow-up ophthalmological examinations are recommended in pediatric patients initiating ORKAMBI treatment.
Drug Interactions
5.7 Drug Interactions Substrates of CYP3A Lumacaftor is a strong inducer of CYP3A. Administration of ORKAMBI may decrease systemic exposure of medicinal products that are substrates of CYP3A, which may decrease therapeutic effect. Co-administration with sensitive CYP3A substrates or CYP3A substrates with a narrow therapeutic index is not recommended. ORKAMBI may substantially decrease hormonal contraceptive exposure, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the incidence of menstruation-associated adverse reactions, e.g., amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, menstrual irregular (27% in women using hormonal contraceptives compared with 3% in women not using hormonal contraceptives). Hormonal contraceptives, including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable, should not be relied upon as an effective method of contraception when co-administered with ORKAMBI [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Drug Interactions (7.3 , 7.11) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Strong CYP3A Inducers Ivacaftor is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 isoenzymes. Use of ORKAMBI with strong CYP3A inducers, such as rifampin, significantly reduces ivacaftor exposure, which may reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of ORKAMBI. Therefore, co-administration with strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, St. John's wort [ Hypericum perforatum ]) is not recommended [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS See Full Prescribing Information for a complete list. ( 2.3 , 7 , 12.3 ) Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor