FOLLISTIM ® AQ Cartridge (follitropin beta) injection, is indicated: In Women for: FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge is a gonadotropin indicated: In Women for: Induction of Ovulation and Pregnancy in Anovulatory Infertile Women in Whom the Cause of Infertility is Functional and Not Due to Primary Ovarian Failure ( 1.1 ) Pregnancy in Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Cycle ( 1.2 ) In Men for: Induction of Spermatogenesis in Men with Primary and Secondary Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (HH) in Whom the Cause of Infertility is Not Due to Primary Testicular Failure ( 1.3 )
1.1 Induction of Ovulation and Pregnancy in Anovulatory Infertile Women in Whom the Cause of Infertility is Functional and Not Due to Primary Ovarian Failure Prior to initiation of treatment with FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge: Women should have a complete gynecologic and endocrinologic evaluation. Primary ovarian failure should be excluded. The possibility of pregnancy should be excluded. Tubal patency should be demonstrated. The fertility status of the male partner should be evaluated.
1.2 Pregnancy in Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Cycle Prior to initiation of treatment with FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge: Women should have a complete gynecologic and endocrinologic evaluation and diagnosis of cause of infertility. The possibility of pregnancy should be excluded. The fertility status of the male partner should be evaluated.
In Men for:
1.3 Induction of Spermatogenesis in Men with Primary and Secondary Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (HH) in Whom the Cause of Infertility is Not Due to Primary Testicular Failure Prior to initiation of treatment with FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge: Men should have a complete medical and endocrinologic evaluation. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism should be confirmed and primary testicular failure should be excluded. Serum testosterone levels should be normalized with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatment.
The fertility status of the female partner should be evaluated.
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FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge is contraindicated in women and men who exhibit: Prior hypersensitivity to recombinant hFSH products or any component of FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge. Reactions including anaphylaxis have been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] High levels of FSH indicating primary gonadal failure Presence of uncontrolled non-gonadal endocrinopathies (e.g., thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary disorders) [see Indications and Usage (1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3) ] Hypersensitivity reactions to streptomycin or neomycin.
FOLLISTIM AQ may contain traces of these antibiotics Tumors of the ovary, breast, uterus, testis, hypothalamus or pituitary gland FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge is also contraindicated in women who exhibit: Pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding of undetermined origin Ovarian cysts or enlargement not due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Women and men who exhibit: Prior hypersensitivity to recombinant hFSH products ( 4 ) High levels of FSH indicating primary gonadal failure ( 4 ) Presence of uncontrolled non-gonadal endocrinopathies ( 4 ) Hypersensitivity reactions related to streptomycin or neomycin ( 4 ) Tumors of the ovary, breast, uterus, testis, hypothalamus or pituitary gland ( 4 ) Women who exhibit: Pregnancy ( 4 , 8.1 ) Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding of undetermined origin ( 4 ) Ovarian cysts or enlargement not due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge should be used only by physicians who are experienced in infertility treatment. FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge contains a potent gonadotropic substance capable of causing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] with or without pulmonary or vascular complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] and multiple births [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Gonadotropin therapy requires the availability of appropriate monitoring facilities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] .
Careful attention should be given to the diagnosis of infertility and in the selection of candidates for FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge therapy [see Indications and Usage (1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3) and Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4) ] . Switching to FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge from other brands (manufacturer), types (recombinant, urinary), and/or methods of administration (FOLLISTIM Pen, conventional syringe) may necessitate an adjustment of the dose [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] .
Treatment with FOLLISTIM AQ may result in: Abnormal Ovarian Enlargement ( 5.1 ) Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) ( 5.2 ) Pulmonary and Vascular Complications ( 5.3 ) Ovarian Torsion ( 5.4 ) Multi-fetal Gestation and Birth ( 5.5 ) Congenital Anomalies ( 5.6 ) Ectopic Pregnancy ( 5.7 ) Spontaneous Abortion ( 5.8 ) Ovarian Neoplasms ( 5.9 )
5.1Abnormal Ovarian Enlargement
In order to minimize the hazards associated with abnormal ovarian enlargement that may occur with FOLLISTIM AQ therapy, treatment should be individualized and the lowest effective dose should be used [ see Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3) ] . Use of ultrasound monitoring of ovarian response and/or measurement of serum estradiol levels is important to minimize the risk of overstimulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] .
If the ovaries are abnormally enlarged on the last day of FOLLISTIM AQ therapy, hCG should not be administered in order to reduce the chances of developing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). Intercourse should be prohibited in patients with significant ovarian enlargement after ovulation because of the danger of hemoperitoneum resulting from ruptured ovarian cysts [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] .
5.2Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
OHSS is a medical entity distinct from uncomplicated ovarian enlargement and may progress rapidly to become a serious medical condition. OHSS is characterized by a dramatic increase in vascular permeability, which can result in a rapid accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, thorax, and potentially, the pericardium. The early warning signs of OHSS developing are severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight gain.
Abdominal pain, abdominal distension, gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, severe ovarian enlargement, weight gain, dyspnea, and oliguria have been reported with OHSS. Clinical evaluation may reveal hypovolemia, hemoconcentration, electrolyte imbalances, ascites, hemoperitoneum, pleural effusions, hydrothorax, acute pulmonary distress, and thromboembolic reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] .
Transient liver function test abnormalities suggestive of hepatic dysfunction with or without morphologic changes on liver biopsy have also been reported in association with OHSS. OHSS occurs after gonadotropin treatment has been discontinued, and it can develop rapidly, reaching its maximum about seven to ten days following treatment. Usually, OHSS resolves spontaneously with the onset of menses. If there is a risk for OHSS evident prior to hCG administration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] , the hCG must be withheld.
Cases of OHSS are more common, more severe, and more protracted if pregnancy occurs; therefore, women should be assessed for the development of OHSS for at least two weeks after hCG administration. If serious OHSS occurs, gonadotropins, including hCG, should be stopped and consideration should be given as to whether the patient needs to be hospitalized. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and overall should consist of bed rest, fluid and electrolyte management, and analgesics (if needed).
Because the use of diuretics can accentuate the diminished intravascular volume, diuretics should be avoided except in the late phase of resolution as described below. The management of OHSS may be divided into three phases as follows: Acute Phase: Management should be directed at preventing hemoconcentration due to loss of intravascular volume to the third space and minimizing the risk of thromboembolic phenomena and kidney damage.
Fluid intake and output, weight, hematocrit, serum and urinary electrolytes, urine specific gravity, BUN and creatinine, total proteins with albumin: globulin ratio, coagulation studies, electrocardiogram to monitor for hyperkalemia, and abdominal girth should be thoroughly assessed daily or more often based on the clinical need. Treatment, consisting of limited intravenous fluids, electrolytes, and human serum albumin is intended to normalize electrolytes while maintaining an acceptable but somewhat reduced intravascular volume.
Full correction of the intravascular volume deficit may lead to an unacceptable increase in the amount of third space fluid accumulation. Chronic Phase: After the acute phase is successfully managed as above, excessive fluid accumulation in the third space should be limited by instituting severe potassium, sodium, and fluid restriction. Resolution Phase: As third space fluid returns to the intravascular compartment, a fall in hematocrit and increasing urinary output are observed in the absence of any increase in intake.
Peripheral and/or pulmonary edema may result if the kidneys are unable to excrete third space fluid as rapidly as it is mobilized. Diuretics may be indicated during the resolution phase, if necessary, to combat pulmonary edema. OHSS increases the risk of injury to the ovary. The ascitic, pleural, and pericardial fluid should not be removed unless there is the necessity to relieve symptoms such as pulmonary distress or cardiac tamponade.
Pelvic examination may cause rupture of an ovarian cyst, which may result in hemoperitoneum, and should therefore be avoided. If bleeding occurs and requires surgical intervention, the clinical objective should be to control the bleeding and retain as much ovarian tissue as possible. During clinical trials with FOLLISTIM or FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge therapy, OHSS occurred in 7.6% of 105 women (OI) and 6.4% of 751 women (IVF or ICSI) treated with FOLLISTIM and FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge, respectively.
5.3Pulmonary and Vascular Complications
Serious pulmonary conditions (e.g., atelectasis, acute respiratory distress syndrome) have been reported in women treated with gonadotropins. In addition, thromboembolic reactions both in association with, and separate from OHSS have been reported following gonadotropin therapy. Intravascular thrombosis, which may originate in venous or arterial vessels, can result in reduced blood flow to vital organs or the extremities.
Women with generally recognized risk factors for thrombosis, such as a personal or family history, severe obesity, or thrombophilia, may have an increased risk of venous or arterial thromboembolic events, during or following treatment with gonadotropins. Sequelae of such reactions have included venous thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary infarction, cerebral vascular occlusion (stroke), and arterial occlusion resulting in loss of limb and rarely in myocardial infarction.
In rare cases, pulmonary complications and/or thromboembolic reactions have resulted in death. In women with recognized risk factors, the benefits of ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment need to be weighed against the risks. It should be noted that pregnancy itself also carries an increased risk of thrombosis.
5.4 Ovarian T
Our copy of this section ends here. The full text is in the official label at the FDA. Open Drugs@FDA
Interactions
No drug-drug interaction studies have been performed.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary
FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge is contraindicated for use in pregnant women. The incidence of congenital malformations after some Assisted Reproductive Technology, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)], may be slightly higher than that after spontaneous conception. This slightly higher incidence is thought to be related to differences in parental characteristics (e.g., maternal age, maternal and paternal genetic background, sperm characteristics) and to a higher incidence of multi-fetal gestations after IVF or ICSI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] .
There is no human data that the use of gonadotropins (including FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge) alone or as part of IVF or ICSI cycles, increases the risk of congenital malformations. The risk of spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) is increased in women who have used gonadotropins products to achieve pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . In the US general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Adverse reactions
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling: Abnormal Ovarian Enlargement [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Atelectasis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Thromboembolism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Ovarian Torsion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Multi-fetal Gestation and Birth [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Congenital Anomalies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Ectopic Pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Spontaneous Abortion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Ovarian Neoplasms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] The most common adverse reactions (≥2%) in women undergoing ovulation induction are ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, ovarian cyst, abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain and lower abdominal pain.
( 6.1 ) The most common adverse reactions (≥2%) in women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation as part of an IVF or ICSI cycle are pelvic discomfort, headache, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, pelvic pain, nausea and fatigue. ( 6.1 ) The most common (≥2%) adverse reactions in men undergoing induction of spermatogenesis are headache, acne, injection site reaction, injection site pain, gynecomastia, rash and dermoid cyst.
( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Organon USA LLC, a subsidiary of Organon & Co., at 1-844-674-3200 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
6.1Clinical Study Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trial of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Ovulation Induction In a single cycle, multi-center, assessor-blind, parallel group, comparative study, a total of 172 chronic anovulatory women who had failed to ovulate and/or conceive with clomiphene citrate therapy, were randomized and treated with FOLLISTIM (105) or a urofollitropin comparator.
Adverse reactions with an incidence of greater than 2% in either treatment group are listed in Table 2. Table 2: Common Adverse Reactions Reported at a Frequency of ≥2% in an Assessor-Blind, Comparative Study of Anovulatory Women Receiving Ovulation Induction System Organ Class/Adverse Reactions Treatment Number (%) of Women FOLLISTIM N=105 n (%) Comparator N=67 n (%) Gastrointestinal disorders Abdominal discomfort 3 (2.9) 1 (1.5) Abdominal pain 3 (2.9) 2 (3.0) Abdominal pain lower 3 (2.9) 1 (1.5) Reproductive system and breast disorders Ovarian cyst 3 (2.9) 2 (3.0) Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome 8 (7.6) 3 (4.5) General disorders and administration site conditions Pyrexia 0 (0.0) 2 (3.0) Adverse reactions reported commonly (greater than or equal to 2% of women treated with FOLLISTIM) in other ovulation induction clinical trials were headache, abdominal distension, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, pelvic pain, uterine enlargement, vaginal hemorrhage and injection site reaction.
In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection In a single cycle, multi-center, double-blind, parallel group, comparative study, a total of 1509 women were randomized to receive controlled ovarian stimulation with either FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge (751 women were treated with FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge) or a comparator and pituitary suppression with a gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle.
Table 3 lists adverse reactions with an incidence of greater than 2% in the group of women treated with FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge. Table 3: Common Adverse Reactions Reported at a Frequency of ≥2% in a Randomized, Double-blind, Active-controlled, Comparative Study of Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Cycle System Organ Class/Adverse Reactions FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge Treatment N = 751 n n a = number of women with the adverse reaction.
(%) Nervous System disorders Headache 55 (7.3%) Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea 29 (3.9%) Reproductive system and breast disorders Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome 48 (6.4%) Pelvic discomfort 62 (8.3%) Pelvic Pain 41 (5.5%) General disorders and Administration site conditions Fatigue 17 (2.3%) Induction of Spermatogenesis In an open-label, non-comparative clinical trial, 49 men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were enrolled to receive pretreatment with hCG, followed by combination therapy with hCG and FOLLISTIM for induction of spermatogenesis.
Of the 49 men, 30 received weekly FOLLISTIM doses of 450 international units; 24 of these 30 men received a total of 48 weeks of treatment with FOLLISTIM. Adverse reactions occurring with an incidence of greater than 2% in the 30 men treated with FOLLISTIM are listed in Table 4. Table 4: Common Adverse Reactions Reported at a Frequency of ≥2% in an Open-Label Clinical Trial in Men with Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism System Organ Class/Adverse Reactions FOLLISTIM Treatment N=30 n (%) Nervous system disorders Headache 2 (6.7) General disorders and administration site disorders Injection site reaction 2 (6.7) Injection site pain 2 (6.7) Skin and cutaneous tissue disorders Acne 2 (6.7) Rash 1 (3.3) Reproductive system and breast disorders Gynecomastia 1 (3.3) Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified Dermoid cyst 1 (3.3)
6.2Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of FOLLISTIM and/or FOLLISTIM AQ Cartridge. 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. Gastrointestinal disorders Abdominal distension, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site reaction Immune system disorders Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis, pruritus, rash, and urticaria Reproductive system and breast disorders Breast tenderness, metrorrhagia, ovarian enlargement, vaginal hemorrhage Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Rash Vascular disorders Thromboembolism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]
Composition
Active ingredients
FOLLITROPIN ALFA/BETA 300 IU/0.36ML
Strengths and forms
The FDA lists each strength of a product separately; these pages share one label.
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