See Full Prescribing Information For Complete Boxed Warning
See Full Prescribing Information For Complete Boxed Warning
See Full Prescribing Information For Complete Boxed Warning
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use gain (5.5)
ABILIFY MAINTENA safely and effectively. See full prescribing Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus: Monitor patients for symptoms of
information for ABILIFY MAINTENA. hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness.
Monitor glucose regularly in patients with and at risk for diabetes (5.5)
ABILIFY MAINTENA® (aripiprazole) for extended-release injectable Dyslipidemia: Undesirable alterations have been observed in patients
suspension, for intramuscular use treated with atypical antipsychotics (5.5)
Initial U.S. Approval: 2002 Weight Gain: Gain in body weight has been observed; clinical monitoring
of weight is recommended (5.5)
WARNING: INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS Orthostatic Hypotension: Use with caution in patients with known
WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (5.6)
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis: Perform complete blood
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with counts in patients with a history of a clinically significant low white blood cell
antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death (5.1) count (WBC)/absolute neutrophil count (ANC). Consider discontinuation if
ABILIFY MAINTENA is not approved for the treatment of patients clinically significant decline in WBC/ANC in the absence of other causative
with dementia-related psychosis (5.1) factors (5.7)
Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with
conditions that lower the seizure threshold (5.8)
-------------------------- RECENT MAJOR CHANGES -------------------------- Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Use caution when operating
Dosage and Administration: Pre-filled Dual Chamber Syringe (2.5), machinery (5.9)
Vial (2.6) 07/2015
--------------------------- INDICATIONS AND USAGE -------------------------- ------------------------------ ADVERSE REACTIONS -----------------------------
ABILIFY MAINTENA is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for the treatment Most commonly observed adverse reactions with ABILIFY MAINTENA
of schizophrenia (1) (incidence ≥5% and at least twice that for placebo) were increased weight,
akathisia, injection site pain, and sedation (6.1)
---------------------- DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ----------------------
Only to be administered by intramuscular injection in the deltoid or gluteal To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Otsuka
muscle by a healthcare professional (2.1) America Pharmaceutical, Inc. at 1-800-438-9927 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-
For patients naïve to aripiprazole, establish tolerability with oral 1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
aripiprazole prior to initiating ABILIFY MAINTENA (2.1)
Recommended starting and maintenance dose is 400 mg administered ------------------------------ DRUG INTERACTIONS-------------------------------
monthly as a single injection. Dose can be reduced to 300 mg in patients Dosage adjustments for patients taking CYP2D6 inhibitors, CYP3A4
with adverse reactions (2.1) inhibitors, or CYP3A4 inducers for greater than 14 days (2.3):
In conjunction with first dose, take 14 consecutive days of concurrent oral Factors Adjusted
aripiprazole (10 mg to 20 mg) or current oral antipsychotic (2.1) Dose
Dosage adjustments are required for missed doses (2.2) CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers
Known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers: Recommended starting and CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers taking concomitant CYP3A4 200 mg1
maintenance dose is 300 mg administered monthly as a single injection inhibitors
(2.3) Patients Taking 400 mg of ABILIFY MAINTENA
ABILIFY MAINTENA comes in two types of kits. See instructions for Strong CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors 300 mg
reconstitution/injection/disposal procedures for 1) Pre-filled Dual Chamber CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors 200 mg1
Syringe (2.5), and 2) Vials (2.6).
CYP3A4 inducers Avoid use
--------------------- DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS -------------------- Patients Taking 300 mg of ABILIFY MAINTENA
For extended-release injectable suspension: 300 mg and 400 mg strength Strong CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors 200 mg1
lyophilized powder for reconstitution in (3): CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors 160 mgError!
Reference source not
single-dose pre-filled dual chamber syringe
found.
single-dose vial
CYP3A4 inducers Avoid use
1
------------------------------ CONTRAINDICATIONS ----------------------------- 200 mg and 160 mg dose adjustments are obtained only by using the
Known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole (4) 300 mg or 400 mg strength vials.
----------------------- WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ---------------------- ----------------------- USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS ----------------------
Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions in Elderly Patients with Dementia- Pregnancy: May cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in
Related Psychosis: Increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse neonates with third trimester exposure (8.1)
reactions (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack, including fatalities) (5.2)
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Manage with immediate discontinuation See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and Medication
and close monitoring (5.3) Guide.
Tardive Dyskinesia: Discontinue if clinically appropriate (5.4) Revised: 01/2016
Metabolic Changes: Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with
metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular/cerebrovascular risk.
For patients who have never taken aripiprazole, establish tolerability with oral
aripiprazole prior to initiating treatment with ABILIFY MAINTENA. Due to the half-life
of oral aripiprazole, it may take up to 2 weeks to fully assess tolerability.
After the first ABILIFY MAINTENA injection, administer oral aripiprazole (10 mg to 20
mg) for 14 consecutive days to achieve therapeutic aripiprazole concentrations during
initiation of therapy. For patients already stable on another oral antipsychotic (and known
to tolerate aripiprazole), after the first ABILIFY MAINTENA injection, continue
treatment with the antipsychotic for 14 consecutive days to maintain therapeutic
antipsychotic concentrations during initiation of therapy.
If there are adverse reactions with the 400 mg dosage, consider reducing the dosage to
300 mg once monthly.
If more than 4 weeks and less than 5 weeks have elapsed since the last
injection, administer the injection as soon as possible.
If more than 4 weeks and less than 6 weeks have elapsed since the last
injection, administer the injection as soon as possible.
If more than 6 weeks have elapsed since the last injection, restart concomitant
oral aripiprazole for 14 days with the next administered injection.
Avoid the concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers with ABILIFY MAINTENA for greater
than 14 days because the blood levels of aripiprazole are decreased and may be below the
effective levels.
Dosage adjustments are not recommended for patients with concomitant use of CYP3A4
inhibitors, CYP2D6 inhibitors or CYP3A4 inducers for less than 14 days.
The 200 mg and 160 mg dosage adjustments are obtained only by using the 300 mg or
400 mg strength vials.
Lay out and confirm that components listed below are provided in the kit:
One 23 gauge, 1 inch (25 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection
device for deltoid administration in non-obese patients
One 21 gauge, 2 inch (50 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection
device for gluteal administration in obese patients
a) Push plunger rod slightly to engage threads. And then, rotate plunger rod until the
rod stops rotating to release diluent. After plunger rod is at complete stop, middle
stopper will be at the indicator line (See Figure 1).
Figure 1
b) Vertically shake the syringe vigorously for 20 seconds until drug is uniformly
milky-white (See Figure 2).
Figure 2
c) Visually inspect the syringe for particulate matter and discoloration prior to
administration. The reconstituted ABILIFY MAINTENA suspension should
6
Injection Procedure
a) Twist and pull off Over-cap and Tip-cap (See Figure 3).
Figure 3
Figure 4
22 gauge, 1.5 inch (38 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle
protection device for obese patients
22 gauge, 1.5 inch (38 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection
device for non-obese patients
21 gauge, 2 inch (50 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection device
for obese patients
c) While holding the needle cap, ensure the needle is firmly seated on the safety
device with a push. Twist clockwise until SNUGLY fitted (See Figure 5).
Figure 5
Figure 6
f) Inject slowly into the deltoid or gluteal muscle. Do not massage the injection
site.
Disposal Procedure
a) Engage the needle safety device and safely discard all kit components (See Figure
8). ABILIFY MAINTENA pre-filled dual chamber syringe is for single-use
only.
Figure 8
a) Lay out and confirm that components listed below are provided in the kit:
Vial of ABILIFY MAINTENA (aripiprazole) for extended-release
injectable suspension lyophilized powder
5 mL vial of Sterile Water for Injection, USP
One 3 mL luer lock syringe with pre-attached 21 gauge, 1.5 inch (38 mm)
hypodermic safety needle with needle protection device
One 3 mL luer lock disposable syringe with luer lock tip
b) ABILIFY MAINTENA should be suspended using the Sterile Water for Injection
as supplied in the kit.
c) The Sterile Water for Injection and ABILIFY MAINTENA vials are for single-
use only.
d) Use appropriate aseptic techniques throughout reconstitution and reconstitute at
room temperature.
e) Select the amount of Sterile Water for Injection needed for reconstitution (see
Table 2).
a) Remove the cap of the vial of Sterile Water for Injection and remove the cap of
the vial containing ABILIFY MAINTENA lyophilized powder and wipe the tops
with a sterile alcohol swab.
b) Using the syringe with pre-attached hypodermic safety needle, withdraw the pre-
determined Sterile Water for Injection volume from the vial of Sterile Water for
Injection into the syringe (see Figure 9). Residual Sterile Water for Injection will
remain in the vial following withdrawal; discard any unused portion.
10
c) Slowly inject the Sterile Water for Injection into the vial containing the ABILIFY
MAINTENA lyophilized powder (see Figure 10).
Figure 10
d) Withdraw air to equalize the pressure in the vial by pulling back slightly on the
plunger. Subsequently, remove the needle from the vial. Engage the needle safety
device by using the one-handed technique (see Figure 11). Gently press the sheath
against a flat surface until the needle is firmly engaged in the needle protection
sheath. Visually confirm that the needle is fully engaged into the needle
protection sheath, and discard.
Figure 11
e) Shake the vial vigorously for 30 seconds until the reconstituted suspension
appears uniform (see Figure 12).
11
Figure 13
c) Using the vial adapter package to handle the vial adapter, attach the prepackaged
luer lock syringe to the vial adapter (see Figure 14).
12
d) Use the luer lock syringe to remove the vial adapter from the package and discard
the vial adapter package (see Figure 15). Do not touch the spike tip of the adapter
at any time.
Figure 15
13
h) Slowly withdraw the recommended volume from the vial into the luer lock
syringe to allow for injection (see Figure 17). A small amount of excess product
will remain in the vial.
Figure 17
Injection Procedure
a) Detach the luer lock syringe containing the recommended volume of reconstituted
ABILIFY MAINTENA suspension from the vial.
b) Select the appropriate hypodermic safety needle and attach the needle to the luer
lock syringe containing the suspension for injection. While holding the needle
cap, ensure the needle is firmly seated on the safety device with a push. Twist
clockwise until snugly fitted and then pull the needle cap straight away from the
needle (see Figure 18).
23 gauge, 1 inch (25 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection device
for non-obese patients
22 gauge, 1.5 inch (38 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection
device for obese patients
22 gauge, 1.5 inch (38 mm) hypodermic safety needle with needle protection
device for non-obese patients
14
Figure 18
(c) Slowly inject the recommended volume as a single intramuscular injection into the
deltoid or gluteal muscle. Do not massage the injection site.
Disposal Procedure
a) Engage the needle safety device as described in Section 2.6, Step (d) of
Reconstitution of Lyophilized Powder in Vial and safely discard all kit
components (see Figure 8). Dispose of the vials, adapter, needles, and syringe
appropriately after injection. The Sterile Water for Injection and ABILIFY
MAINTENA vials are for single-use only.
b) Rotate sites of injections between the two deltoid or gluteal muscles.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
ABILIFY MAINTENA is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to
aripiprazole. Hypersensitivity reactions ranging from pruritus/urticaria to anaphylaxis
have been reported in patients receiving aripiprazole [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6.1
and 6.2)].
15
Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either
cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature.
Observational studies suggest that, similar to atypical antipsychotic drugs, treatment with
conventional antipsychotic drugs may increase mortality. The extent to which the
findings of increased mortality in observational studies may be attributed to the
antipsychotic drug as opposed to some characteristic(s) of the patients is not clear.
ABILIFY MAINTENA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-
related psychosis.
Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status,
and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia,
diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine
phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure.
16
If a patient requires antipsychotic drug treatment after recovery from NMS, the potential
reintroduction of drug therapy should be carefully considered. The patient should be
carefully monitored, since recurrences of NMS have been reported.
The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become
irreversible are believed to increase as the duration of treatment and the total cumulative
dose of antipsychotic drugs administered to the patient increase. However, the syndrome
can develop, although much less commonly, after relatively brief treatment periods at low
doses.
There is no known treatment for established tardive dyskinesia, although the syndrome
may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is withdrawn. Antipsychotic
treatment, itself, however, may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms
of the syndrome and, thereby, may possibly mask the underlying process. The effect of
symptomatic suppression on the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown.
17
If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient treated with ABILIFY
MAINTENA drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may
require treatment with ABILIFY MAINTENA despite the presence of the syndrome.
Hyperglycemia/Diabetes Mellitus
Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical
antipsychotics should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients
with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes), who are
starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose
testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient
treated with atypical antipsychotics should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia
including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop
symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics should
undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when
the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required
continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the atypical
antipsychotic drug.
18
Dyslipidemia
Undesirable alterations in lipids have been observed in patients treated with atypical
antipsychotics.
Table 5 shows the proportion of adult patients from one short-term, placebo-controlled
randomized trial in adults with schizophrenia taking ABILIFY MAINTENA, with
changes in total cholesterol, fasting triglycerides, fasting LDL cholesterol and HDL
cholesterol.
19
Weight Gain
Weight gain has been observed with atypical antipsychotic use. Clinical monitoring of
weight is recommended.
20
Table 6 shows the percentage of adult patients with weight gain ≥7% of body weight in a
short-term, placebo-controlled trial with ABILIFY MAINTENA.
In the short-term placebo-controlled trial, there were no patients in either treatment group
with a significant orthostatic change in blood pressure (defined as a decrease in systolic
blood pressure ≥20 mmHg accompanied by an increase in heart rate ≥25 when comparing
standing to supine values). During the stabilization phase of the randomized-withdrawal
(maintenance) study, the incidence of significant orthostatic change in blood pressure was
0.2% (1/575).
Possible risk factors for leukopenia/neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell
count (WBC)/absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and a history of drug-induced
leukopenia/neutropenia. In patients with a history of a clinically significant low
WBC/ANC or drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia, perform a complete blood count
21
Monitor patients with clinically significant neutropenia for fever or other symptoms or
signs of infection and treat promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Discontinue
ABILIFY MAINTENA in patients with severe neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count
<1000/mm3) and follow their WBC counts until recovery.
5.8 Seizures
As with other antipsychotic drugs, use ABILIFY MAINTENA cautiously in patients with
a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that
lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in a population of 65 years or older.
5.11 Dysphagia
Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use,
including ABILIFY MAINTENA. ABILIFY MAINTENA and other antipsychotic drugs
should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration pneumonia [see WARNINGS
AND PRECAUTIONS (5.1)].
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the
labeling:
22
Oral aripiprazole has been evaluated for safety in 16,114 adult patients who participated
in multiple-dose, clinical trials in schizophrenia and other indications, and who had
approximately 8,578 patient-years of exposure to oral aripiprazole. A total of 3,901
patients were treated with oral aripiprazole for at least 180 days, 2,259 patients were
treated with oral aripiprazole for at least 360 days, and 933 patients continuing
aripiprazole treatment for at least 720 days.
ABILIFY MAINTENA has been evaluated for safety in 2,188 adult patients in clinical
trials in schizophrenia, with approximately 2,646 patient-years of exposure to ABILIFY
MAINTENA. A total of 1,230 patients were treated with ABILIFY MAINTENA for at
least 180 days (at least 7 consecutive injections) and 935 patients treated with ABILIFY
MAINTENA had at least 1 year of exposure (at least 13 consecutive injections).
The conditions and duration of treatment with ABILIFY MAINTENA included double-
blind and open-label studies. The safety data presented below are derived from the 12-
week double-blind placebo-controlled study of ABILIFY MAINTENA in adult patients
with schizophrenia.
23
The following findings are based on the double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that
compared ABILIFY MAINTENA 400 mg or 300 mg to placebo in patients with
schizophrenia. Table 7 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of ABILIFY
MAINTENA-treated subjects and at a greater proportion than in the placebo group.
a
Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction
System Organ Class ABILIFY MAINTENA Placebo
Preferred Term (n=167) (n=172)
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Constipation 10 7
Dry Mouth 4 2
Diarrhea 3 2
Vomiting 3 1
Abdominal Discomfort 2 1
General Disorders and
Administration Site Conditions
Injection Site Pain 5 1
Infections and Infestations
Upper Respiratory Tract
4 2
Infection
Investigations
Increased Weight 17 7
Decreased Weight 4 2
Musculoskeletal And Connective
Tissue Disorders
Arthralgia 4 1
Back Pain 4 2
Myalgia 4 2
24
Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of ABILIFY
MAINTENA
The following listing does not include reactions: 1) already listed in previous tables or
elsewhere in labeling, 2) for which a drug cause was remote, 3) which were so general as
to be uninformative, 4) which were not considered to have significant clinical
implications, or 5) which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo.
Reactions are categorized by body system according to the following definitions:
frequent adverse reactions are those occurring in at least 1/100 patients; infrequent
adverse reactions are those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients; rare reactions are those
occurring in fewer than 1/1000 patients:
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: rare - thrombocytopenia
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: frequent - fatigue, injection site
reactions (including erythema, induration, pruritus, injection site reaction, swelling, rash,
inflammation, hemorrhage), infrequent - chest discomfort, gait disturbance, rare-
irritability, pyrexia
25
Demographic Differences
In the data from the short-term, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with ABILIFY
MAINTENA in patients with schizophrenia, the percent of patients reporting any
injection site-related adverse reaction (all reported as injection site pain) was 5.4% for
patients treated with gluteal administered ABILIFY MAINTENA and 0.6% for placebo.
The mean intensity of injection pain reported by subjects using a visual analog scale
(0=no pain to 100=unbearably painful) approximately one hour after injection was 7.1
(SD 14.5) for the first injection and 4.8 (SD 12.4) at the last visit in the double-blind,
placebo-controlled phase.
26
Dystonia
Neutropenia
The following is a list of additional adverse reactions that have been reported in clinical
trials with oral aripiprazole and not reported above for ABILIFY MAINTENA:
27
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: asthenia, peripheral edema, chest
pain, face edema, angioedema, hypothermia, pain
Psychiatric Disorders: loss of libido, suicide attempt, hostility, libido increased, anger,
anorgasmia, delirium, intentional self injury, completed suicide, tic, homicidal ideation,
catatonia, sleep walking
28
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
Concomitant
Drug Name or Clinical Rationale Clinical Recommendation
Drug Class
29
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women
exposed to ABILIFY during pregnancy. For more information contact the National
Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit
http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/.
Risk Summary
Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including ABILIFY MAINTENA, during the
third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms.
There are insufficient data with ABILIFY MAINTENA use in pregnant women to inform
a drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, oral and intravenous aripiprazole
administration during organogenesis in rats and/or rabbits at doses 10 and 11 times,
respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) produced fetal death,
decreased fetal weight, undescended testicles, delayed skeletal ossification, skeletal
30
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population
are unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major
birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%,
respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Animal Data
In animal studies, aripiprazole demonstrated developmental toxicity, including possible
teratogenic effects in rats and rabbits.
Pregnant rats were treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day which are
approximately 1 to 10 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of 30
mg/day on mg/m2 basis of aripiprazole during the period of organogenesis. Treatment at
the highest dose caused a slight prolongation of gestation and delay in fetal development,
as evidenced by decreased fetal weight and undescended testes. Delayed skeletal
ossification was observed at 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m2 basis.
At 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m2 basis, delivered offspring had decreased
body weights. Increased incidences of hepatodiaphragmatic nodules and diaphragmatic
hernia were observed in offspring from the highest dose group (the other dose groups
were not examined for these findings). Postnatally, delayed vaginal opening was seen at 3
and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m2 basis and impaired reproductive performance
(decreased fertility rate, corpora lutea, implants, live fetuses, and increased post-
implantation loss, likely mediated through effects on female offspring) along with some
31
In pregnant rabbits treated with oral doses of 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day which are 2 to
11 times human exposure at the oral MRHD based on AUC and 6 to 65 times the oral
MRHD of aripiprazole on mg/m2 basis during the period of organogenesis, decreased
maternal food consumption and increased abortions were seen at the highest dose as well
as increased fetal mortality. Decreased fetal weight and increased incidence of fused
sternebrae were observed at 3 and 11 times the MRHD based on AUC.
In rats treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, which are 1 to 10 times the oral
MRHD of aripiprazole on a mg/m2 basis, peri- and post-natally (from day 17 of gestation
through day 21 postpartum), slight maternal toxicity and slightly prolonged gestation
were seen at the highest dose. An increase in stillbirths and decreases in pup weight
(persisting into adulthood) and survival were also seen at this dose.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
Aripiprazole is present in human breast milk; however, there are insufficient data to
assess the amount in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on
milk production. The development and health benefits of breastfeeding should be
considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ABILIFY MAINTENA and any
32
Aripiprazole in juvenile rats caused mortality, CNS clinical signs, impaired memory and
learning, and delayed sexual maturation when administered at oral doses of 10, 20,
40mg/kg/day from weaning (21 days old) through maturity (80 days old). At
40mg/kg/day, mortality, decreased activity, splayed hind limbs, hunched posture, ataxia,
tremors and other CNS signs were observed in both genders. In addition, delayed sexual
maturation was observed in males. At all doses and in a dose-dependent manner,
impaired memory and learning, increased motor activity, and histopathology changes in
the pituitary (atrophy), adrenals (adrenocortical hypertrophy), mammary glands
(hyperplasia and increased secretion), and female reproductive organs (vaginal
mucification, endometrial atrophy, decrease in ovarian corpora lutea) were observed. The
changes in female reproductive organs were considered secondary to the increase in
prolactin serum levels. A No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) could not be
determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 10mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin
relative to the systemic exposures (AUC0-24) for aripiprazole or its major active
metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All
drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period, and most of the drug
effects in juvenile rats were also observed in adult rats from previously conducted
studies.
Aripiprazole in juvenile dogs (2 months old) caused CNS clinical signs of tremors,
hypoactivity, ataxia, recumbency and limited use of hind limbs when administered orally
for 6 months at 3, 10, 30 mg/kg/day. Mean body weight and weight gain were decreased
up to 18% in females in all drug groups relative to control values. A NOAEL could not
be determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 3mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin
relative to the systemic exposures (AUC0-24) for aripiprazole or its major active
metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All
drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period.
33
34
Common adverse reactions (reported in at least 5% of all overdose cases) reported with
oral aripiprazole overdosage (alone or in combination with other substances) include
vomiting, somnolence, and tremor. Other clinically important signs and symptoms
observed in one or more patients with aripiprazole overdoses (alone or with other
substances) include acidosis, aggression, aspartate aminotransferase increased, atrial
fibrillation, bradycardia, coma, confusional state, convulsion, blood creatine
phosphokinase increased, depressed level of consciousness, hypertension, hypokalemia,
hypotension, lethargy, loss of consciousness, QRS complex prolonged, QT prolonged,
pneumonia aspiration, respiratory arrest, status epilepticus, and tachycardia.
11 DESCRIPTION
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic which is present in ABILIFY MAINTENA as its
monohydrate polymorphic form. Aripiprazole monohydrate is 7-[4-[4-(2,3-
dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl] butoxy]-3,4 dihydrocarbostyril monohydrate. The
empirical formula is C23H27Cl2N3O2•H2O and its molecular weight is 466.40. The
chemical structure is:
35
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
Aripiprazole exhibits high affinity for dopamine D2 and D3, serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A
receptors (Ki values of 0.34 nM, 0.8 nM, 1.7 nM, and 3.4 nM, respectively), moderate
affinity for dopamine D4, serotonin 5-HT2C and 5-HT7, alpha1-adrenergic and histamine
H1 receptors (Ki values of 44 nM, 15 nM, 39 nM, 57 nM, and 61 nM, respectively), and
moderate affinity for the serotonin reuptake site (Ki=98 nM). Aripiprazole has no
appreciable affinity for cholinergic muscarinic receptors (IC50>1000 nM). Aripiprazole
functions as a partial agonist at the dopamine D2 and the serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, and
as an antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptor.
Alcohol
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
ABILIFY MAINTENA activity is presumably primarily due to the parent drug,
aripiprazole, and to a lesser extent, to its major metabolite, dehydro-aripiprazole, which
has been shown to have affinities for D2 receptors similar to the parent drug and
represents about 29% of the parent drug exposure in plasma.
Aripiprazole absorption into the systemic circulation is slow and prolonged following
intramuscular injection due to low solubility of aripiprazole particles. Following a single
dose administration of ABILIFY MAINTENA in the deltoid and gluteal muscle, the
extent of absorption (AUCt, AUC∞) of aripiprazole was similar for both injection sites,
but the rate of absorption (Cmax) was 31% higher following administration to the deltoid
compared to the gluteal site. However, at steady state, AUC and Cmax were similar for
both sites of injection. Following multiple intramuscular doses, the plasma concentrations
36
No specific drug interaction studies have been performed with ABILIFY MAINTENA.
The information below is obtained from studies with oral aripiprazole.
37
CYP3A4 Inhibitor:
ketoconazole AUC
Cmax
CYP2D6 Inhibitor:
quinidine AUC
Cmax
CYP3A4 Inducer:
carbamazepine AUC
Cmax
Other:
valproate AUC
Cmax
lithium AUC
Cmax
lorazepam AUC
Cmax
CYP3A4 Inhibitor:
ketoconazole AUC
Cmax
CYP2D6 Inhibitor:
quinidine AUC
Cmax
CYP3A4 Inducer:
carbamazepine AUC
Cmax
Other:
valproate AUC
Cmax
lithium AUC
Cmax
lorazepam AUC
Cmax
The effects of ABILIFY on the exposures of other drugs are summarized in Figure 21. A
population PK analysis in patients with major depressive disorder showed no substantial
change in plasma concentrations of fluoxetine (20 mg/day or 40 mg/day), paroxetine CR
(37.5 mg/day or 50 mg/day), or sertraline (100 mg/day or 150 mg/day) dosed to steady-
state. The steady-state plasma concentrations of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine increased
by about 18% and 36%, respectively, and concentrations of paroxetine decreased by
about 27%. The steady-state plasma concentrations of sertraline and desmethylsertraline
38
39
CYP2D6
poor vs. extensive metabolizer AUC
Cmax
Gender
female vs. male AUC
Cmax
Age
18-64 vs. >65 years old AUC
Cmax
Hepatic Impairment:
mild vs. normal AUC
Cmax
moderate vs. normal AUC
Cmax
AUC
severe vs. normal Cmax
Renal Impairment:
Severe AUC
Cmax
CYP2D6
poor vs. extensive metabolizer AUC
Cmax
Gender
female vs. male AUC
Cmax
Age
18-64 vs. >65 years old AUC
Cmax
Hepatic Impairment:
AUC
mild vs. normal Cmax
moderate vs. normal AUC
Cmax
severe vs. normal AUC
Cmax
Renal Impairment:
Severe AUC
Cmax
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
Lifetime carcinogenicity studies were conducted in ICR mice, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats,
and F344 rats. Aripiprazole was administered for 2 years in the diet at doses of 1, 3, 10,
and 30 mg/kg/day to ICR mice and 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg/day to F344 rats (0.2 to 5 times
and 0.3 to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] based on mg/m2,
40
Proliferative changes in the pituitary and mammary gland of rodents have been observed
following chronic administration of other antipsychotic agents and are considered
prolactin-mediated. Serum prolactin was not measured in the aripiprazole carcinogenicity
studies. However, increases in serum prolactin levels were observed in female mice in a
13-week dietary study at the doses associated with mammary gland and pituitary tumors.
Serum prolactin was not increased in female rats in 4-week and 13-week dietary studies
at the dose associated with mammary gland tumors. The relevance for human risk of the
findings of prolactin-mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unknown.
Mutagenesis
The mutagenic potential of aripiprazole was tested in the in vitro bacterial reverse-
mutation assay, the in vitro bacterial DNA repair assay, the in vitro forward gene
mutation assay in mouse lymphoma cells, the in vitro chromosomal aberration assay in
Chinese hamster lung (CHL) cells, the in vivo micronucleus assay in mice, and the
unscheduled DNA synthesis assay in rats. Aripiprazole and a metabolite (2,3-DCPP)
were clastogenic in the in vitro chromosomal aberration assay in CHL cells with and
without metabolic activation. The metabolite, 2,3-DCPP, produced increases in numerical
aberrations in the in vitro assay in CHL cells in the absence of metabolic activation. A
positive response was obtained in the in vivo micronucleus assay in mice; however, the
response was due to a mechanism not considered relevant to humans.
Impairment of Fertility
Female rats were treated with oral doses of 2, 6, and 20 mg/kg/day (0.6, 2, and 6 times
the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] on a mg/m2 basis) of aripiprazole
from 2 weeks prior to mating through day 7 of gestation. Estrus cycle irregularities and
increased corpora lutea were seen at all doses, but no impairment of fertility was seen.
Increased pre-implantation loss was seen at 6 and 20 mg/kg/day and decreased fetal
weight was seen at 20 mg/kg/day.
41
Intramuscular Aripiprazole
42
The inclusion criteria for this short-term trial included adult inpatients who met DSM-IV-
TR criteria for schizophrenia. In addition, all patients entering the trial must have
experienced an acute psychotic episode as defined by both PANSS Total Score ≥ 80 and
a PANSS score of > 4 on each of four specific psychotic symptoms (conceptual
disorganization, hallucinatory behavior, suspiciousness/persecution, unusual thought
content) at screening and baseline. The key secondary endpoint was the change from
baseline in Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) assessment scale to week 10.
The CGI-S rates the severity of mental illness on a scale of 1 (normal) to 7 (among the
most extremely ill) based on the total clinical experience of the rater in treating patients
with schizophrenia. Patients had a mean PANSS total score of 103 (range 82 to 144) and
a CGI-S score of 5.2 (markedly ill) at entry.
43
The change in PANSS total score by week is shown in Figure 24. ABILIFY MAINTENA
also showed improvement in symptoms represented by CGI-S score mean change from
baseline to week 10. The results of exploratory subgroup analyses by gender, race, age,
ethnicity, and BMI were similar to the results of the overall population.
n = the number of patients remaining in the respective study arm at each time point
44
In addition to the PANSS and CGI-S, clinical ratings during this trial included the:
45
The primary efficacy endpoint was time from randomization to relapse. Relapse was
defined as the first occurrence of one or more of the following criteria:
46
1
This figure is based on a total of 80 relapse events
The key secondary efficacy endpoint, percentage of subjects meeting the relapse criteria,
was statistically significantly lower in patients randomized to the ABILIFY MAINTENA
group (10%) than in the placebo group (40%).
47
Single-Use Vial:
48
16.2 Storage
Pre-filled dual chamber syringe:
Store below 30°C [86°F]. Do not freeze. Protect the syringe from light by storing in the
original package until time of use.
Vial:
Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see
USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Counsel patients about a potentially fatal adverse reaction referred to as NMS that has
been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Advise patients,
family members, or caregivers to contact a health care provider or report to the
49
Tardive Dyskinesia
Advise patients that abnormal involuntary movements have been associated with the
administration of antipsychotic drugs. Counsel patients to notify their health care
provider if they notice any movements which they cannot control in their face, tongue, or
other body part [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.4)].
Educate patients about the risk of metabolic changes, how to recognize symptoms of
hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, and the need for specific monitoring, including
blood glucose, lipids, and weight [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.5)].
Orthostatic Hypotension
Educate patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope especially early in
treatment, and also at times of re-initiating treatment or increases in dosage
[see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.6)].
Leukopenia/Neutropenia
Because ABILIFY MAINTENA may have the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or
motor skills, instruct patients to be cautious about operating hazardous machinery,
including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that ABILIFY MAINTENA
therapy does not affect them adversely [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.9)].
Advise patients regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration [see
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.10)].
Concomitant Medication
Advise patients to inform their health care providers of any changes to their current
prescription or over-the-counter medications since there is a potential for clinically
significant interactions [see DRUG INTERACTIONS (7)].
50
01/2016
51
(aripiprazole)
for extended-release injectable suspension, for intramuscular use
Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room right away if you
have any of these symptoms.
It is not known if ABILIFY MAINTENA is safe and effective in children under 18 years
of age.
Do not receive ABILIFY MAINTENA if you are allergic to aripiprazole or any of the
ingredients in ABILIFY MAINTENA. See the end of this leaflet for a complete list of
ingredients in ABILIFY MAINTENA.
52
Before you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA, tell your healthcare provider if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription
medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
ABILIFY MAINTENA and other medicines may affect each other causing possible
serious side effects. ABILIFY MAINTENA may affect the way other medicines work,
and other medicines may affect how ABILIFY MAINTENA works.
Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take ABILIFY MAINTENA with
your other medicines. Do not start or stop any medicines while taking ABILIFY
MAINTENA without talking to your healthcare provider first.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and
pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
Follow your ABILIFY MAINTENA treatment schedule exactly as your healthcare provider
tells you to.
53
Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know
how ABILIFY MAINTENA affects you. ABILIFY MAINTENA may make you
feel drowsy.
Do not drink alcohol while you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA.
Do not become too hot or dehydrated while you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA.
Do not exercise too much.
In hot weather, stay inside in a cool place if possible.
Stay out of the sun.
Do not wear too much clothing or heavy clothing.
Drink plenty of water.
See "What is the most important information I should know about ABILIFY
MAINTENA?"
Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia). ABILIFY MAINTENA
may cause movements that you cannot control in your face, tongue, or other body
parts. Tardive dyskinesia may not go away, even if you stop receiving ABILIFY
MAINTENA. Tardive dyskinesia may also start after you stop receiving
ABILIFY MAINTENA.
Problems with your metabolism such as:
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): Increases in blood sugar can happen
in some people who take ABILIFY MAINTENA. Extremely high blood
sugar can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or risk factors for
diabetes (such as being overweight or a family history of diabetes), your
healthcare provider should check your blood sugar before you start
receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA and during your treatment.
54
The most common side effect of ABILIFY MAINTENA includes feeling like you need
to move to stop unpleasant feelings in your legs (restless leg syndrome or akathisia),
injection site pain, or sleepiness (sedation).
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go
away.
These are not all the possible side effects of ABILIFY MAINTENA. For more
information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to
FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
General information about the safe and effective use of ABILIFY MAINTENA
This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about ABILIFY
MAINTENA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider.
You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about ABILIFY
MAINTENA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider.
You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about ABILIFY
MAINTENA that is written for healthcare professionals.
55
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
01/2016
56