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FDA Drug information

Follistim AQ

Read time: 6 mins
Marketing start date: 13 Oct 2024

Summary of product characteristics


Adverse Reactions

6 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 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical 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 = 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) 6.2 Postmarketing 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 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) ]

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Follistim AQ Cartridge is contraindicated in women and men who exhibit: Prior hypersensitivity to recombinant hFSH products 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 )

Description

11 DESCRIPTION Follitropin beta, a gonadotropin [human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH)], is a glycoprotein hormone produced by recombinant DNA technology in a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line. It has a dimeric structure containing two glycoprotein subunits (alpha and beta). The alpha and beta subunits have 92 and 111 amino acids, respectively, and their primary and tertiary structures are indistinguishable from that of hFSH. The molecular weight is approximately 40 kDa. Follistim AQ Cartridge (follitropin beta) injection is a sterile clear and colorless solution, containing either 300 International Units, 600 International Units, or 900 International Units of follitropin beta in disposable single-patient-use cartridges for subcutaneous use only with the Follistim Pen. Each cartridge delivers 300 International Units in 0.36 mL and the inactive ingredients: benzyl alcohol (3.6 mg; preservative), methionine (0.18 mg), polysorbate 20 (0.072 mg), sodium citrate (4.64 mg), sucrose (18 mg), and Water for Injection USP. Hydrochloric acid NF and/or sodium hydroxide NF are used to adjust the pH to 7. Each cartridge delivers 600 International Units in 0.72 mL and the inactive ingredients: benzyl alcohol (7.2 mg; preservative), methionine (0.36 mg), polysorbate 20 (0.144 mg), sodium citrate (9.3 mg), sucrose (36 mg), and Water for Injection USP. Hydrochloric acid NF and/or sodium hydroxide NF are used to adjust the pH to 7. Each cartridge delivers 900 International Units in 1.08 mL and the inactive ingredients: benzyl alcohol (10.8 mg; preservative), methionine (0.54 mg), polysorbate 20 (0.216 mg), sodium citrate (13.9 mg), sucrose (54 mg), and Water for Injection USP. Hydrochloric acid NF and/or sodium hydroxide NF are used to adjust the pH to 7. Under current storage conditions, Follistim AQ may contain up to 11% of oxidized follitropin beta.

Dosage And Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION See Dose Conversion Table 1 for Follistim AQ Cartridge with Pen Injector ( 2.1 ) In Anovulatory Women Undergoing Ovulation Induction ( 2.2 ): Starting daily dose of 50 international units of Follistim AQ Cartridge is administered subcutaneously for at least the first 7 days. The dose is increased by 25 or 50 international units at weekly intervals until follicular growth and/or serum estradiol levels indicate an adequate response. When an acceptable pre-ovulatory state is achieved, final oocyte maturation is achieved with 5,000 to 10,000 international units of urinary human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The woman and her partner should have intercourse daily, beginning on the day prior to the administration of hCG and until ovulation becomes apparent. In Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Cycle ( 2.3 ): Starting dose of 200 international units (actual cartridge doses) of Follistim AQ Cartridge is administered subcutaneously for at least the first 7 days of treatment. Subsequent doses can be adjusted down or up based upon ovarian response as determined by ultrasound evaluation of follicular growth and serum estradiol levels. Dosage reduction in high responders can be considered from the 6th day of treatment onward according to individual response. Final oocyte maturation is induced with a dose of 5,000-10,000 international units of urinary hCG. Oocyte (egg) retrieval is performed 34 to 36 hours later. Induction of Spermatogenesis in Men ( 2.4 ): Pretreatment with urinary hCG alone (1,500 international units twice weekly) is required. If serum testosterone levels have not normalized after 8 weeks of hCG treatment, the dose may be increased to 3,000 international units twice a week. After normalization of serum testosterone levels, administer 450 international units per week (225 international units twice weekly or 150 international units three times weekly) of Follistim AQ Cartridge subcutaneously with the same pre-treatment hCG dose used to normalize testosterone levels. 2.1 General Dosing Information Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. If the solution is not clear and colorless or has particles in it, the solution should not be used. Do not add any other medicines into the Follistim AQ Cartridge. Follistim AQ Cartridge with the pen injector device delivers on average an 18% higher amount of follitropin beta when compared to reconstituted Follistim delivered with a conventional syringe and needle. When administering Follistim AQ Cartridge, a lower starting dose and lower dose adjustments (as compared to reconstituted Follistim) should be considered. For that purpose the following Dose Conversion Table is provided: Table 1: Follistim AQ Cartridge Administered Subcutaneously with the Follistim Pen Dose Conversion Table Each value represents an 18% difference rounded to the nearest 25 IU increment. Lyophilized recombinant FSH dosing with ampules or vials, using conventional syringe Follistim AQ Cartridge dosing with the Follistim Pen 75 IU 50 IU 150 IU 125 IU 225 IU 175 IU 300 IU 250 IU 375 IU 300 IU 450 IU 375 IU 2.2 Recommended Dosing in Anovulatory Women Undergoing Ovulation Induction The dosing scheme is stepwise and is individualized for each woman [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . A starting daily dose of 50 international units of Follistim AQ Cartridge is administered [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] subcutaneously daily for at least the first 7 days. Subsequent dosage adjustments are made at weekly intervals based upon ovarian response. If an increase in dose is indicated by the ovarian response, the increase should be made by 25 or 50 international units of Follistim AQ Cartridge at weekly intervals until follicular growth and/or serum estradiol levels indicate an adequate ovarian response. The following should be considered when planning the woman's individualized dose: Appropriate Follistim AQ Cartridge dose adjustment(s) should be used to prevent multiple follicular growth and cycle cancellation. The maximum, individualized, daily dose of Follistim AQ Cartridge is 250 international units. Treatment should continue until ultrasonic visualizations and/or serum estradiol determinations approximate the pre-ovulatory conditions seen in normal individuals. When pre-ovulatory conditions are reached, 5,000 to 10,000 international units of urinary hCG are used to induce final oocyte maturation and ovulation. The administration of hCG must be withheld in cases where the ovarian monitoring suggests an increased risk of OHSS on the last day of Follistim AQ Cartridge therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2 , 5.10) ] . The woman and her partner should be encouraged to have intercourse daily, beginning on the day prior to the administration of hCG and until ovulation becomes apparent [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . During treatment with Follistim AQ Cartridge and during a two-week post-treatment period, the woman should be assessed at least every other day for signs of excessive ovarian stimulation. It is recommended that Follistim AQ Cartridge administration be stopped if the ovarian monitoring suggests an increased risk of OHSS or abdominal pain occurs. Most OHSS occurs after treatment has been discontinued and reaches its maximum at about seven to ten days post-ovulation. 2.3 Recommended Dosing in Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Cycle The dosing scheme follows a stepwise approach and is individualized for each woman. A starting dose of 200 international units (actual cartridge doses) of Follistim AQ Cartridge is administered [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] subcutaneously daily for at least the first 7 days of treatment. Subsequent to the first 7 days of treatment, the dose can be adjusted down or up based upon the woman's ovarian response as determined by ultrasound evaluation of follicular growth and serum estradiol levels. Dosage reduction in high responders can be considered from the 6th day of treatment onward according to individual response. The following should be considered when planning the woman's individualized dose: For most normal responding women, the daily starting dose can be continued until pre-ovulatory conditions are achieved (seven to twelve days). For low or poor responding women, the daily dose should be increased according to the ovarian response. The maximum, individualized, daily dose of Follistim AQ Cartridge is 500 international units. For high responding women [those at particular risk of abnormal ovarian enlargement and/or ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)], decrease or temporarily stop the daily dose, or discontinue the cycle according to individual response [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2 , 5.10) ] . When a sufficient number of follicles of adequate size are present, dosing of Follistim AQ Cartridge is stopped and final maturation of the oocytes is induced by administering urinary hCG at a dose of 5,000 to 10,000 international units. The administration of hCG should be withheld in cases where the ovarian monitoring suggests an increased risk of OHSS on the last day of Follistim AQ Cartridge therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2 , 5.10) ] . Oocyte (egg) retrieval should be performed 34 to 36 hours following the administration of hCG. 2.4 Recommended Dosing for Induction of Spermatogenesis in Men Pretreatment with hCG is required prior to concomitant therapy with Follistim AQ Cartridge and hCG. An initial dosage of 1,500 international units of urinary hCG should be administered at twice weekly intervals to normalize serum testosterone levels. If serum testosterone levels have not normalized after 8 weeks of hCG treatment, the urinary hCG dose can be increased to 3,000 international units twice weekly [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . After normal serum testosterone levels have been reached, Follistim AQ Cartridge should be administered by subcutaneous injection concomitantly with hCG treatment. Follistim is given at a dosage of 450 international units per week, as either 225 international units twice weekly or 150 international units three times per week, in combination with the same hCG dose used to normalize testosterone levels. Based on delivery of a higher dose of follitropin beta with the Follistim AQ Cartridge and pen injector [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ], a lower dose of Follistim AQ Cartridge may be considered. The concomitant therapy should be continued for at least 3 to 4 months before any improvement in spermatogenesis can be expected. If a man has not responded after this period, the combination therapy may be continued. Treatment response has been noted at up to 12 months.

Indications And Usage

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE 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.

Overdosage

10 OVERDOSAGE Aside from the possibility of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2 , 5.3) ] and multiple gestations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] , there is no additional information concerning the consequences of acute overdosage with Follistim AQ Cartridge.

Adverse Reactions Table

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 ReactionsTreatment Number (%) of Women
Follistim N=105 n (%)Comparator N=67 n (%)
Gastrointestinal disorders
Abdominal discomfort3 (2.9)1 (1.5)
Abdominal pain3 (2.9)2 (3.0)
Abdominal pain lower3 (2.9)1 (1.5)
Reproductive system and breast disorders
Ovarian cyst3 (2.9)2 (3.0)
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome8 (7.6)3 (4.5)
General disorders and administration site conditions
Pyrexia0 (0.0)2 (3.0)

Drug Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS No drug-drug interaction studies have been performed.

Clinical Pharmacology

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Women: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), the active component in Follistim AQ Cartridge, is required for normal follicular growth, maturation, and gonadal steroid production. In women, the level of FSH is critical for the onset and duration of follicular development, and consequently for the timing and number of follicles reaching maturity. Follistim AQ Cartridge stimulates ovarian follicular growth in women who do not have primary ovarian failure. In order to effect the final phase of follicle maturation, resumption of meiosis and rupture of the follicle in the absence of an endogenous LH surge, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) must be given following treatment with Follistim AQ Cartridge when patient monitoring indicates appropriate follicular development parameters have been reached. Men: Follistim when administered with hCG stimulates spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. FSH, the active component of Follistim, is the pituitary hormone responsible for spermatogenesis. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Pharmacokinetic parameters for Follistim AQ Cartridge were evaluated in an open-label, single-center, randomized study in 20 healthy women. Serum FSH values from a single subcutaneous injection of reconstituted Follistim lyophilized powder administered by conventional syringe were compared to those values following a single subcutaneous injection of Follistim AQ Cartridge administered with the Follistim Pen injector. Administration of follitropin beta with the Follistim Pen resulted an 18% increase in AUC 0–∞ and C max . The 18% difference in serum FSH concentrations resulting from administration of the two formulations was due to differences between the anticipated and actual volume delivered with the conventional syringe. The pharmacokinetic parameters for Follistim AQ Cartridge are as follows: Table 5: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of a Single Subcutaneous Injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge (n=20) AUC 0–∞ (IU/L*h) C max (IU/L) t max (h) t ½ (h) CL app (L/h/kg) AUC 0–∞ Area under the curve C max Maximum concentration t max Time to maximum concentration t ½ Elimination half-life CL app Clearance Follistim AQ 215.1 3.4 12.9 33.4 0.01 Cartridge (45.8) (0.7) (6.2) (4.2) (0.003) Absorption: Women: The bioavailability of Follistim following subcutaneous and intramuscular administration was investigated in healthy, pituitary-suppressed women given a single 300 international units dose. In these women, the area under the curve (AUC), expressed as the mean ± SD, was equivalent between the subcutaneous (455.6 ± 141.4 IU*h/L) and intramuscular (445.7 ± 135.7 IU*h/L) routes of administration. However, equivalence could not be established with respect to the peak serum FSH levels (C max ). The C max achieved after subcutaneous administration and intramuscular administration was 5.41 ± 0.72 international units/L and 6.86 ± 2.90 international units/L, respectively. After subcutaneous or intramuscular injection the apparent dose absorbed was 77.8% and 76.4%, respectively. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a single, intramuscular dose (300 international units) of Follistim were also investigated in a group (n=8) of gonadotropin-deficient, but otherwise healthy women. In these women, FSH (mean ± SD) AUC was 339 ± 105 international units*h/L, C max was 4.3 ± 1.7 international units/L. C max occurred at approximately 27 ± 5.4 hours after intramuscular administration. A multiple dose, dose proportionality, pharmacokinetic study of Follistim was completed in healthy, pituitary-suppressed, female subjects given subcutaneous doses of 75, 150, or 225 international units for 7 days. Steady-state blood concentrations of FSH were reached with all doses after 5 days of treatment based on the trough concentrations of FSH just prior to dosing (C trough ). Peak blood concentrations with the 75, 150, and 225 international units dose were 4.30 ± 0.60 international units/L, 8.51 ± 1.16 international units/L and 13.92 ± 1.81 international units/L, respectively. Men: No PK studies were conducted using Follistim AQ Cartridge in men. Exposures of follitropin beta from Follistim AQ Cartridge and Follistim are expected to be equivalent after adjusting for the 18% difference in dose [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] . Serum levels of FSH were measured in a clinical study that compared the effects of two different dosing schedules of Follistim (150 international units three times a week or 225 international units twice a week) administered by subcutaneous injection concurrently with chorionic gonadotropin for induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal men. Administration of Follistim was started at Week 17. Mean serum trough concentrations of FSH remained fairly constant over the treatment period. At the end of treatment (Week 64), the mean serum trough concentrations of FSH were 2.09 international units/L in the 150 international units group and 3.22 international units/L in the 225 international units group. Serum trough concentrations of FSH measured prior to the first Follistim injection on the Mondays of active treatment period (Weeks 17 to 64) and one week after the end of treatment period are presented in Figure 1. Figure 1: Mean (SD) Serum Trough Concentrations of FSH in Men Following Subcutaneous Administration of Follistim Using Two Different Dosing Schedules (150 International Units Three Times a Week or 225 International Units Twice a Week) Figure 1 Distribution: The volume of distribution of Follistim in healthy, pituitary-suppressed, women following intravenous administration of a 300 international units dose was approximately 8 L. Metabolism: The recombinant FSH in Follistim AQ Cartridge is biochemically very similar to urinary FSH and it is therefore anticipated that it is metabolized in the same manner. Elimination: The elimination half-life (t ½ ) following a single subcutaneous injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge in women was 33.4 (4.2) hours. The clearance was 0.01 (0.003) L/h/kg. Use in Specific Populations : Body weight: The effect of body weight on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim was evaluated in a group of European and Japanese women who were significantly different in terms of body weight. The European women had a body weight of (mean ± SD) 67.4 ± 13.5 kg and the Japanese subjects were 46.8 ± 11.6 kg. Following a single intramuscular dose of 300 international units of Follistim, the AUC was significantly smaller in European women (339 ± 105 international units*h/L) than in Japanese women (544 ± 201 international units*h/L). However, clearance per kg of body weight was essentially the same for the respective groups (0.014 and 0.013 L/hr/kg). Geriatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied in geriatric subjects. Pediatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied in pediatric subjects. Renal Impairment: The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied. Hepatic Impairment: The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied.

Clinical Pharmacology Table

Table 5: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of a Single Subcutaneous Injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge (n=20)
AUC0–∞ (IU/L*h)Cmax (IU/L)tmax (h)t½ (h)CLapp (L/h/kg)
AUC0–∞ Area under the curve Cmax Maximum concentration tmax Time to maximum concentration t½ Elimination half-life CLapp Clearance
Follistim AQ215.13.412.933.40.01
Cartridge(45.8)(0.7)(6.2)(4.2)(0.003)

Mechanism Of Action

12.1 Mechanism of Action Women: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), the active component in Follistim AQ Cartridge, is required for normal follicular growth, maturation, and gonadal steroid production. In women, the level of FSH is critical for the onset and duration of follicular development, and consequently for the timing and number of follicles reaching maturity. Follistim AQ Cartridge stimulates ovarian follicular growth in women who do not have primary ovarian failure. In order to effect the final phase of follicle maturation, resumption of meiosis and rupture of the follicle in the absence of an endogenous LH surge, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) must be given following treatment with Follistim AQ Cartridge when patient monitoring indicates appropriate follicular development parameters have been reached. Men: Follistim when administered with hCG stimulates spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. FSH, the active component of Follistim, is the pituitary hormone responsible for spermatogenesis.

Pharmacokinetics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics Pharmacokinetic parameters for Follistim AQ Cartridge were evaluated in an open-label, single-center, randomized study in 20 healthy women. Serum FSH values from a single subcutaneous injection of reconstituted Follistim lyophilized powder administered by conventional syringe were compared to those values following a single subcutaneous injection of Follistim AQ Cartridge administered with the Follistim Pen injector. Administration of follitropin beta with the Follistim Pen resulted an 18% increase in AUC 0–∞ and C max . The 18% difference in serum FSH concentrations resulting from administration of the two formulations was due to differences between the anticipated and actual volume delivered with the conventional syringe. The pharmacokinetic parameters for Follistim AQ Cartridge are as follows: Table 5: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of a Single Subcutaneous Injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge (n=20) AUC 0–∞ (IU/L*h) C max (IU/L) t max (h) t ½ (h) CL app (L/h/kg) AUC 0–∞ Area under the curve C max Maximum concentration t max Time to maximum concentration t ½ Elimination half-life CL app Clearance Follistim AQ 215.1 3.4 12.9 33.4 0.01 Cartridge (45.8) (0.7) (6.2) (4.2) (0.003) Absorption: Women: The bioavailability of Follistim following subcutaneous and intramuscular administration was investigated in healthy, pituitary-suppressed women given a single 300 international units dose. In these women, the area under the curve (AUC), expressed as the mean ± SD, was equivalent between the subcutaneous (455.6 ± 141.4 IU*h/L) and intramuscular (445.7 ± 135.7 IU*h/L) routes of administration. However, equivalence could not be established with respect to the peak serum FSH levels (C max ). The C max achieved after subcutaneous administration and intramuscular administration was 5.41 ± 0.72 international units/L and 6.86 ± 2.90 international units/L, respectively. After subcutaneous or intramuscular injection the apparent dose absorbed was 77.8% and 76.4%, respectively. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a single, intramuscular dose (300 international units) of Follistim were also investigated in a group (n=8) of gonadotropin-deficient, but otherwise healthy women. In these women, FSH (mean ± SD) AUC was 339 ± 105 international units*h/L, C max was 4.3 ± 1.7 international units/L. C max occurred at approximately 27 ± 5.4 hours after intramuscular administration. A multiple dose, dose proportionality, pharmacokinetic study of Follistim was completed in healthy, pituitary-suppressed, female subjects given subcutaneous doses of 75, 150, or 225 international units for 7 days. Steady-state blood concentrations of FSH were reached with all doses after 5 days of treatment based on the trough concentrations of FSH just prior to dosing (C trough ). Peak blood concentrations with the 75, 150, and 225 international units dose were 4.30 ± 0.60 international units/L, 8.51 ± 1.16 international units/L and 13.92 ± 1.81 international units/L, respectively. Men: No PK studies were conducted using Follistim AQ Cartridge in men. Exposures of follitropin beta from Follistim AQ Cartridge and Follistim are expected to be equivalent after adjusting for the 18% difference in dose [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] . Serum levels of FSH were measured in a clinical study that compared the effects of two different dosing schedules of Follistim (150 international units three times a week or 225 international units twice a week) administered by subcutaneous injection concurrently with chorionic gonadotropin for induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal men. Administration of Follistim was started at Week 17. Mean serum trough concentrations of FSH remained fairly constant over the treatment period. At the end of treatment (Week 64), the mean serum trough concentrations of FSH were 2.09 international units/L in the 150 international units group and 3.22 international units/L in the 225 international units group. Serum trough concentrations of FSH measured prior to the first Follistim injection on the Mondays of active treatment period (Weeks 17 to 64) and one week after the end of treatment period are presented in Figure 1. Figure 1: Mean (SD) Serum Trough Concentrations of FSH in Men Following Subcutaneous Administration of Follistim Using Two Different Dosing Schedules (150 International Units Three Times a Week or 225 International Units Twice a Week) Figure 1 Distribution: The volume of distribution of Follistim in healthy, pituitary-suppressed, women following intravenous administration of a 300 international units dose was approximately 8 L. Metabolism: The recombinant FSH in Follistim AQ Cartridge is biochemically very similar to urinary FSH and it is therefore anticipated that it is metabolized in the same manner. Elimination: The elimination half-life (t ½ ) following a single subcutaneous injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge in women was 33.4 (4.2) hours. The clearance was 0.01 (0.003) L/h/kg. Use in Specific Populations : Body weight: The effect of body weight on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim was evaluated in a group of European and Japanese women who were significantly different in terms of body weight. The European women had a body weight of (mean ± SD) 67.4 ± 13.5 kg and the Japanese subjects were 46.8 ± 11.6 kg. Following a single intramuscular dose of 300 international units of Follistim, the AUC was significantly smaller in European women (339 ± 105 international units*h/L) than in Japanese women (544 ± 201 international units*h/L). However, clearance per kg of body weight was essentially the same for the respective groups (0.014 and 0.013 L/hr/kg). Geriatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied in geriatric subjects. Pediatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied in pediatric subjects. Renal Impairment: The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied. Hepatic Impairment: The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Follistim has not been studied.

Pharmacokinetics Table

Table 5: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of a Single Subcutaneous Injection of 150 IU of Follistim AQ Cartridge (n=20)
AUC0–∞ (IU/L*h)Cmax (IU/L)tmax (h)t½ (h)CLapp (L/h/kg)
AUC0–∞ Area under the curve Cmax Maximum concentration tmax Time to maximum concentration t½ Elimination half-life CLapp Clearance
Follistim AQ215.13.412.933.40.01
Cartridge(45.8)(0.7)(6.2)(4.2)(0.003)

Effective Time

20231117

Version

24

Dosage And Administration Table

Table 1: Follistim AQ Cartridge Administered Subcutaneously with the Follistim Pen Dose Conversion Table Each value represents an 18% difference rounded to the nearest 25 IU increment.
Lyophilized recombinant FSH dosing with ampules or vials, using conventional syringeFollistim AQ Cartridge dosing with the Follistim Pen
75 IU50 IU
150 IU125 IU
225 IU175 IU
300 IU250 IU
375 IU300 IU
450 IU375 IU

Dosage Forms And Strengths

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Follistim AQ Cartridge is a clear and colorless solution available as: Injection: 300 international units per 0.36 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge Injection: 600 international units per 0.72 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge Injection: 900 international units per 1.08 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge Injection: Follistim AQ Cartridge 300 International Units per 0.36 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge ( 3 ) Injection: Follistim AQ Cartridge 600 International Units per 0.72 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge ( 3 ) Injection: Follistim AQ Cartridge 900 International Units per 1.08 mL in a single-patient-use cartridge ( 3 )

Spl Product Data Elements

Follistim AQ follitropin follitropin follitropin benzyl alcohol methionine polysorbate 20 trisodium citrate dihydrate sucrose water hydrochloric acid sodium hydroxide Follistim AQ follitropin follitropin follitropin benzyl alcohol methionine polysorbate 20 trisodium citrate dihydrate sucrose water hydrochloric acid sodium hydroxide Follistim AQ follitropin follitropin follitropin benzyl alcohol methionine polysorbate 20 trisodium citrate dihydrate sucrose water hydrochloric acid sodium hydroxide

Carcinogenesis And Mutagenesis And Impairment Of Fertility

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term toxicity studies in animals have not been performed with Follistim to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of the drug. Follistim was not mutagenic in the Ames test using S. typhimurium and E. coli tester strains and did not produce chromosomal aberrations in an in vitro assay using human lymphocytes.

Nonclinical Toxicology

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term toxicity studies in animals have not been performed with Follistim to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of the drug. Follistim was not mutagenic in the Ames test using S. typhimurium and E. coli tester strains and did not produce chromosomal aberrations in an in vitro assay using human lymphocytes.

Application Number

BLA021211

Brand Name

Follistim AQ

Generic Name

follitropin

Product Ndc

0052-0326

Product Type

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG

Route

SUBCUTANEOUS

Laboratory Tests

5.10 Laboratory Tests For Women : In most instances, treatment with Follistim AQ Cartridge will result only in follicular growth and maturation. In order to complete the final phase of follicular maturation and to induce ovulation, hCG must be given following the administration of Follistim AQ Cartridge or when clinical assessment indicates that sufficient follicular maturation has occurred. The degree of follicular maturation and the timing of hCG administration can both be determined with the use of sonographic visualization of the ovaries and endometrial lining in conjunction with measurement of serum estradiol levels. The combination of transvaginal ultrasonography and measurement of serum estradiol levels is also useful for minimizing the risk of OHSS and multi-fetal gestations. The clinical confirmation of ovulation is obtained by the following direct or indirect indices of progesterone production as well as sonographic evidence of ovulation. Direct or indirect indices of progesterone production are: Urinary or serum luteinizing hormone (LH) rise A rise in basal body temperature Increase in serum progesterone Menstruation following the shift in basal body temperature The following provide sonographic evidence of ovulation: Collapsed follicle Fluid in the cul-de-sac Features consistent with corpus luteum formation Sonographic evaluation of the early pregnancy is also important to rule out ectopic pregnancy. For Men : Clinical monitoring for spermatogenesis utilizes the following indirect or direct measures: Serum testosterone level Semen analysis

Package Label Principal Display Panel

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 300 IU Kit Carton NDC 0052-0313-01 Rx only Follistim ® AQ Cartridge 300 IU (follitropin beta) injection For use only with Follistim Pen ® , available separately For Subcutaneous Use For Single Patient Use Only Contents: 1 Sterile Prefilled Cartridge containing 0.36 mL Follistim ® 5 BD Micro-Fine™ Pen Needles Dispense with Full Prescribing Information PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 300 IU Kit Carton

Spl Unclassified Section

Manufactured for: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of MERCK & CO., INC., Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA Manufactured by: Organon USA Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. 2000 Galloping Hill Road Kenilworth, NJ 07033 U.S. License No. 2193 BD, BD Logo and BD Micro-Fine are trademarks of Becton, Dickinson and Company. For patent information: www.msd.com/research/patent Copyright © 2004-2023 Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. uspi-mk8328-SOi-2303r015

Spl Unclassified Section Table

Figure 1. Follistim Pen and its Parts

Information For Patients

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Patient Information ). Dosing and Use of Follistim AQ Cartridge with Pen Instruct women and men on the correct usage and dosing of Follistim AQ Cartridge in conjunction with the Follistim Pen. Make sure that individuals who have used other gonadotropin products delivered by a syringe are aware of differences arising from use of the pen. Women and men should read and follow all instructions in the Follistim Pen " Instructions for Use " Manual prior to administration of Follistim AQ Cartridge. Advise women and men of the number of doses which can be extracted from the full unused Follistim AQ Cartridge that you have prescribed. Therapy Duration and Necessary Monitoring in Women and Men Undergoing Treatment Prior to beginning therapy with Follistim AQ Cartridge, inform women and men about the time commitment and monitoring procedures necessary to undergo treatment [see Dosage and Administration (2) , Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . Instructions on a Missed Dose Inform women and men that if they miss or forget to take a dose of Follistim AQ Cartridge, the next dose should not be doubled and they should call the healthcare provider for further dosing instructions. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Inform women regarding the risks with use of Follistim AQ Cartridge of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] and associated symptoms including lung and blood vessel problems [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] and ovarian torsion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Multi-fetal Gestation and Birth Inform women regarding the risk of multi-fetal gestations with the use of Follistim AQ Cartridge [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] .

Clinical Studies

14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Ovulation Induction The efficacy of Follistim for ovulation induction was evaluated in a randomized, assessor-blind, parallel-group comparative, multicenter safety and efficacy study of 172 chronic anovulatory women (105 subjects on Follistim) who had previously failed to ovulate and/or conceive during clomiphene citrate treatment. The study results for ovulation rates are summarized in Table 6 and those for pregnancy rates are summarized in Table 7. Table 6: Cumulative Ovulation Rates Cycle Follistim (n=105) First treatment cycle 72% Second treatment cycle 82% Third treatment cycle 85% Table 7: Cumulative Ongoing All ongoing pregnancies were confirmed after at least 12 weeks after the hCG injection. , Study was not powered to demonstrate this outcome. Pregnancy Rates Cycle Follistim (n=105) First treatment cycle 14% Second treatment cycle 19% Third treatment cycle 23% 14.2 Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Cycle The efficacy of Follistim AQ Cartridge was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled study of 1,509 healthy normal ovulatory women (mean age, body weight, and body mass index of 32 years, 68 kg and 25 kg/m 2 , respectively) treated for one cycle with controlled ovarian stimulation and pituitary suppression with a GnRH antagonist as part of an in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle. This 2008 study was conducted in Europe and North America (United States and Canada). Approximately 54% of the subjects were from North America. The overall results, as well as the results from North America only, for clinical pregnancy are summarized in Table 8. Table 8: Pregnancy Results from Treatment With Follistim AQ Cartridge and a GnRH Antagonist in Normal Ovulatory Women Undergoing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation as Part of an In Vitro Fertilization or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Cycle. Single treatment cycle results Intent-to-Treat Population (ITT) Parameter Follistim AQ Cartridge Overall data (n=750) Follistim AQ Cartridge North American data (n=403) Clinical pregnancy rate/cycle initiation Clinical pregnancy was assessed ≥6 weeks after transfer of one or two embryos. 41.1% 48.9% 14.3 Induction of Spermatogenesis The safety and efficacy of Follistim administered by subcutaneous injection concomitantly with chorionic gonadotropin for injection (hCG) has been examined in a multicenter, open-label, non-comparator clinical study for induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal men. The study compared the effects of two different Follistim dosing schedules on semen parameters and serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The multicenter study involved a 16-week pretreatment phase with urinary hCG at a dosage of 1,500 international units twice a week to normalize serum testosterone levels. If serum testosterone levels did not normalize after 8 weeks of hCG treatment, the urinary hCG dose could have been increased to 3,000 international units twice a week. This phase was followed by a 48-week treatment phase. Men who were still azoospermic after the pretreatment phase were randomized to receive either 225 international units Follistim together with 1,500 international units urinary hCG twice a week or 150 international units Follistim three times a week together with 1,500 international units urinary hCG twice weekly. Men who required 3,000 international units of urinary hCG twice a week in the pretreatment phase were continued on that dosage during the treatment phase. The mean age of patients in both treatment groups was approximately 30 years (range 18 to 47 years). At baseline, mean left and right testis volumes were 4.61 ± 2.94 mL and 4.57 ± 3.00 mL, respectively, in the group receiving three weekly injections of Follistim. For the group receiving two weekly injections of Follistim, the mean left and right testis volumes were 6.54 ± 2.45 mL and 7.21 ± 2.94 mL, respectively, at baseline. The primary efficacy endpoint was the percentage of patients with a mean sperm density of ≥1 × 10 6 /mL on their last two treatment assessments. The outcomes of treatment in the 30 men enrolled in the treatment phase are summarized in Table 9. Table 9: Number of Men Receiving Follistim Who Achieved a Mean Sperm Density of ≥10 6 /mL on Their Last Two Treatment Assessments Follistim 150 international units three times a week (n=15) Follistim 225 international units twice a week (n=15) Overall (n=30) Sperm Density of ≥10 6 /mL n % n % n % Yes 6 40 7 47 13 43 No 9 60 8 53 17 57 Overall, the median time to reach a sperm concentration of 10 6 per mL was 165 days (range 25 to 327 days) in patients who demonstrated a sperm concentration of at least 10 6 per mL. The median time to reach a sperm concentration of at least 10 6 per mL was 186 days (range 25 to 327 days) for the 150 international units group and 141 days (range 43 to 204 days) for the 225 international units group. No pregnancy data were collected during the trial. The local tolerance data were comparable between the two treatment groups. The mean percentage of days without pain calculated for all subjects in the treatment period was 91.3% for patients in the 150 international units (three times a week) and 76.0% for patients in the 225 international units (two times a week) Follistim treatment groups. In the 225 international units (twice per week) group, local symptoms judged as severe by the investigator were: itching in 1 patient (7%), pain in 2 patients (13%), bruising in 2 patients (13%), swelling in 2 patients (13%), and redness in 1 patient (7%). In the 150 international units (three times per week) group, 1 event in 1 patient (bruising, 7%) was judged as severe. No patient discontinued treatment due to injection site reaction or injection site pain.

Clinical Studies Table

Table 6: Cumulative Ovulation Rates
CycleFollistim (n=105)
First treatment cycle72%
Second treatment cycle82%
Third treatment cycle85%

Geriatric Use

8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of Follistim AQ Cartridge have not been conducted in patients 65 years of age and older.

Pediatric Use

8.4 Pediatric Use Follistim AQ Cartridge is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Follistim AQ Cartridge is contraindicated for use in pregnant women and offers no benefit during pregnancy.

Use In Specific Populations

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Follistim AQ Cartridge is contraindicated for use in pregnant women and offers no benefit during pregnancy. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Follistim AQ Cartridge and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from Follistim AQ Cartridge or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Follistim AQ Cartridge is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of Follistim AQ Cartridge have not been conducted in patients 65 years of age and older.

How Supplied

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Follistim AQ Cartridge (follitropin beta) injection is a clear and colorless solution in a disposable, prefilled single-patient-use glass cartridge with grey rubber piston and an aluminum crimp-cap with grey rubber inlay supplied in a box containing disposable, 29 gauge, ultra-fine, ½-inch, sterile BD Micro-Fine™ Pen Needles (for use with Follistim Pen available separately) and in the following presentations: NDC 0052-0313-01 Follistim AQ Cartridge 300 international units per 0.36 mL with silver crimp-caps and 5 BD Micro-Fine Pen Needles NDC 0052-0316-01 Follistim AQ Cartridge 600 international units per 0.72 mL with gold crimp-caps and 7 BD Micro-Fine Pen Needles NDC 0052-0326-01 Follistim AQ Cartridge 900 international units per 1.08 mL with blue crimp-caps and 10 BD Micro-Fine Pen Needles Pharmacy Storage: Store refrigerated 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until dispensed. Do not freeze. Patient Storage: Store unused cartridge refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until the expiration date, or at room temperature at up to 25°C (77°F) for 3 months or until expiration date, whichever occurs first. After first use, store at 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F) and discard after 28 days. Store in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze.

Storage And Handling

Pharmacy Storage: Store refrigerated 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until dispensed. Do not freeze. Patient Storage: Store unused cartridge refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until the expiration date, or at room temperature at up to 25°C (77°F) for 3 months or until expiration date, whichever occurs first. After first use, store at 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F) and discard after 28 days. Store in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze.

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