Vyscoxa

Description for Vyscoxa

VYSCOXA contains celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent. The chemical name of celecoxib is 4-[5-(4-methylphenyl)- 3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl] benzenesulfonamide. Celecoxib has a molecular weight of 381.38 g/mol, a molecular formula of C₁₇H₁₄F₃N₃O₂S, and the following structural formula:

Celecoxib is a white to off-white powder with a pKa of 11.1 (sulfonamide moiety). Celecoxib is hydrophobic (log P is 3.5) and is practically insoluble in aqueous media at physiological pH range.

The inactive ingredients in VYSCOXA oral suspension include: anhydrous citric acid, glycerin, magnesium aluminometasilicate, methylparaben, propylparaben, purified water, sodium citrate dihydrate, sucralose, and xanthan gum. Sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid may be used to adjust the pH to 4.5 – 5.5.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:

• Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
• Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
• Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
• Heart Failure and Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
• Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
• Anaphylactic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
• Serious Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
• Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]

Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The adverse reaction information from clinical trials does, however, provide a basis for identifying the adverse events that appear to be related to drug use and for approximating rates.

Of the celecoxib-treated patients in the pre-marketing controlled clinical trials of another formulation of celecoxib, approximately 4,250 were patients with OA, approximately 2,100 were patients with RA, and approximately 1,050 were patients with post-surgical pain.

More than 8,500 patients received a total daily dose of celecoxib of 200 mg (100 mg twice daily or 200 mg once daily) or more, including more than 400 treated at 800 mg (400 mg twice daily). Approximately 3,900 patients received celecoxib at these doses for 6 months or more; approximately 2,300 of these have received it for 1 year or more and 124 of these have received it for 2 years or more.

Pre-marketing Controlled Arthritis Trials

Table 1 lists all adverse events, regardless of causality, occurring in ³2% of patients receiving celecoxib from 12 controlled studies conducted in patients with OA or RA that included a placebo and/or a positive control group. Since these 12 trials were of different durations, and patients in the trials may not have been exposed for the same duration of time, these percentages do not capture cumulative rates of occurrence.

Table 1: Adverse Events Occurring in >2% of Celecoxib Patients from Pre-marketing Controlled Arthritis Trials

	CEL	Placebo	NAP	DCF	IBU
	N=414 6	N=1864	N=1366	N=387	N=345
Gastrointestinal Abdominal Pain Diarrhea Dyspepsia Flatulence Nausea	4.1% 5.6% 8.8% 2.2% 3.5%	2.8% 3.8% 6.2% 1.0% 4.2%	7.7% 5.3% 12.2% 3.6% 6.0%	9.0% 9.3% 10.9% 4.1% 3.4%	9.0% 5.8% 12.8% 3.5% 6.7%
Body as a whole Back Pain Peripheral Edema Injury-Accidental	2.8% 2.1% 2.9%	3.6% 1.1% 2.3%	2.2% 2.1% 3.0%	2.6% 1.0% 2.6%	0.9% 3.5% 3.2%
Central, Peripheral Nervous system Dizziness Headache	2.0% 15.8%	1.7% 20.2%	2.6% 14.5%	1.3% 15.5%	2.3% 15.4%
Psychiatric Insomnia	2.3%	2.3%	2.9%	1.3%	1.4%
Respiratory Pharyngitis Rhinitis Sinusitis Upper Respiratory Infection	2.3% 2.0% 5.0% 8.1%	1.1% 1.3% 4.3% 6.7%	1.7% 2.4% 4.0% 9.9%	1.6% 2.3% 5.4% 9.8%	2.6% 0.6% 5.8% 9.9%
Skin Rash	2.2%	2.1%	2.1%	1.3%	1.2%
CEL = Celecoxib 100 mg to 200 mg twice daily or 200 mg once daily; NAP = Naproxen 500 mg twice daily; DCF = Diclofenac 75 mg twice daily; IBU = Ibuprofen 800 mg three times daily.

In placebo- or active-controlled clinical trials, the discontinuation rate due to adverse events was 7.1% for patients receiving celecoxib and 6.1% for patients receiving placebo. Among the most common reasons for discontinuation due to adverse events in the celecoxib treatment groups were dyspepsia and abdominal pain (cited as reasons for discontinuation in 0.8% and 0.7% of celecoxib patients, respectively).

Among patients receiving placebo, 0.6% discontinued due to dyspepsia and 0.6% withdrew due to abdominal pain.

The following adverse reactions occurred in 0.1% to 1.9% of patients treated with celecoxib (100 mg to 200 mg twice daily or 200 mg once daily):

Gastrointestinal: Constipation, diverticulitis, dysphagia, eructation, esophagitis, gastritis, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux, hemorrhoids, hiatal hernia, melena, dry mouth, stomatitis, tenesmus, vomiting

Cardiovascular: Aggravated hypertension, angina pectoris, coronary artery disorder, myocardial infarction

General: Hypersensitivity, allergic reaction, chest pain, cyst NOS, edema generalized, face edema, fatigue, fever, hot flushes, influenza-like symptoms, pain, peripheral pain

Central, peripheral nervous system: Leg cramps, hypertonia, hypoesthesia, migraine, paresthesia, vertigo

Hearing and vestibular: Deafness, tinnitus

Heart rate and rhythm: Palpitation, tachycardia

Liver and biliary: Hepatic enzyme increased (including SGOT increased, SGPT increased)

Metabolic and nutritional: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increased, creatine phosphokinase (CPK) increased, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, NPN increased, creatinine increased, alkaline phosphatase increased, weight increased

Musculoskeletal: Arthralgia, arthrosis, myalgia, synovitis, tendinitis

Platelets (bleeding or clotting): Ecchymosis, epistaxis, thrombocythemia,

Psychiatric: Anorexia, anxiety, appetite increased, depression, nervousness, somnolence

Hemic: Anemia

Respiratory: Bronchitis, bronchospasm, bronchospasm aggravated, cough, dyspnea, laryngitis, pneumonia

Skin and appendages: Alopecia, dermatitis, photosensitivity reaction, pruritus, rash erythematous, rash maculopapular, skin disorder, skin dry, sweating increased, urticaria

Application site disorders: Cellulitis, dermatitis contact

Urinary: Albuminuria, cystitis, dysuria, hematuria, micturition frequency, renal calculus

The following serious adverse events (causality not evaluated) occurred in <0.1% of patients:

Cardiovascular: Syncope, congestive heart failure, ventricular fibrillation, pulmonary embolism, cerebrovascular accident, peripheral gangrene, thrombophlebitis

Gastrointestinal: Intestinal obstruction, intestinal perforation, gastrointestinal bleeding, colitis with bleeding, esophageal perforation, pancreatitis, ileus

General: Sepsis, sudden death

Liver and biliary: Cholelithiasis

Hemic and lymphatic: Thrombocytopenia

Nervous: Ataxia, suicide [see Drug interactions (7)]

Renal: Acute renal failure

The Celecoxib Long-Term Arthritis Safety Study [see Clinical Studies (14.6)]

Hematological Events: The incidence of clinically significant decreases in hemoglobin (>2 g/dL) was lower in patients on celecoxib

400 mg twice daily (0.5%) compared to patients on either diclofenac 75 mg twice daily (1.3%) or ibuprofen 800 mg three times daily 1.9%. The lower incidence of events with celecoxib was maintained with or without aspirin use [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

Withdrawals/Serious Adverse Events: Kaplan-Meier cumulative rates at 9 months for withdrawals due to adverse events for celecoxib, diclofenac and ibuprofen were 24%, 29%, and 26%, respectively. Rates for serious adverse events (i.e., causing hospitalization or felt to be life-threatening or otherwise medically significant), regardless of causality, were not different across treatment groups (8%, 7%, and 8%, respectively).

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis Study

In a 12-week, double-blind, active-controlled study, 242 JRA patients 2 years to 17 years of age were treated with celecoxib or naproxen; 77 JRA patients were treated with celecoxib 3 mg/kg twice daily, 82 patients were treated with celecoxib 6 mg/kg twice daily, and 83 patients were treated with naproxen 7.5 mg/kg twice daily. The most commonly occurring (³5%) adverse events in celecoxib treated patients were headache, fever (pyrexia), upper abdominal pain, cough, nasopharyngitis, abdominal pain, nausea, arthralgia, diarrhea, and vomiting. The most commonly occurring (³5%) adverse experiences for naproxen-treated patients were headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, upper abdominal pain, diarrhea, cough, abdominal pain, and dizziness (Table 2). Compared with naproxen, celecoxib at doses of 3 and 6 mg/kg twice daily had no observable deleterious effect on growth and development during the course of the 12-week double-blind study.

There was no substantial difference in the number of clinical exacerbations of uveitis or systemic features of JRA among treatment groups.

In a 12-week, open-label extension of the double-blind study described above, 202 JRA patients were treated with celecoxib 6 mg/kg twice daily. The incidence of adverse events was similar to that observed during the double-blind study; no unexpected adverse events of clinical importance emerged.

Table 2: Adverse Events Occurring in ³5% of JRA Patients in Any Treatment Group, by System Organ Class (% of patients with events)

All Doses Twice Daily	Celecoxib	Celecoxib	Naproxen
System Organ Class	3 mg/kg	6 mg/kg	7.5 mg/kg
Preferred Term	N=77	N=82	N=83
Any Event	64	70	72
Eye Disorders	5	5	5
Gastrointestinal	26	24	36
Abdominal pain NOS	4	7	7
Abdominal pain upper	8	6	10
Vomiting NOS	3	6	11
Diarrhea NOS	5	4	8
Nausea	7	4	11
General	13	11	18
Pyrexia	8	9	11
Infections	25	20	27
Nasopharyngitis	5	6	5
Injury and Poisoning	4	6	5
Investigations*	3	11	7
Musculoskeletal	8	10	17
Arthralgia	3	7	4
Nervous System	17	11	21
Headache NOS	13	10	16
Dizziness (excl vertigo)	1	1	7
Respiratory	8	15	15
Cough	7	7	8
Skin & Subcutaneous	10	7	18
* Abnormal laboratory tests, which include: Prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, Bacteriuria NOS present, Blood creatine phosphokinase increased, Blood culture positive, Blood glucose increased, Blood pressure increased, Blood uric acid increased, Hematocrit decreased, Hematuria present, Hemoglobin decreased, Liver function tests NOS abnormal, Proteinuria present, Transaminase NOS increased, Urine analysis abnormal NOS

Other Pre-Approval Studies

Adverse Events from Ankylosing Spondylitis Studies: A total of 378 patients were treated with celecoxib in placebo- and active-controlled AS studies. Doses up to 400 mg once daily were studied. The types of adverse events reported in the AS studies were similar to those reported in the OA/RA studies.

Adverse Events from Analgesia and Dysmenorrhea Studies: Approximately 1,700 patients were treated with celecoxib in analgesia and dysmenorrhea studies. All patients in post-oral surgery pain studies received a single dose of study medication. Doses up to 600 mg/day of celecoxib were studied in primary dysmenorrhea and post-orthopedic surgery pain studies. The types of adverse events in the analgesia and dysmenorrhea studies were similar to those reported in arthritis studies. The only additional adverse event reported was post-dental extraction alveolar osteitis (dry socket) in the post-oral surgery pain studies.

The APC and PreSAP Trials

Adverse reactions from long-term, placebo-controlled polyp prevention studies: Exposure to celecoxib in the APC and PreSAP trials was 400 mg to 800 mg daily for up to 3 years [see Clinical Studies (14.6)].

Some adverse reactions occurred in higher percentages of patients than in the arthritis pre-marketing trials (treatment durations up to 12 weeks; see Adverse events from celecoxib pre-marketing controlled arthritis trials, above). The adverse reactions for which these differences in patients treated with celecoxib were greater as compared to the arthritis pre-marketing trials were as follows:

	Celecoxib (4 0 to 800 mg daily) N = 2285	Placebo N=1303
Diarrhea	10.5%	7.0%
Gastroesophageal reflux disease	4.7%	3.1%
Nausea	6.8%	5.3%
Vomiting	3.2%	2.1%
Dyspnea	2.8%	1.6%
Hypertension	12.5%	9.8%
Nephrolithiasis	2.1%	0.8%

The following additional adverse reactions occurred in ≥0.1% and <1% of patients taking celecoxib, at an incidence greater than placebo in the long-term polyp prevention studies, and were either not reported during the controlled arthritis pre-marketing trials or occurred with greater frequency in the long-term, placebo-controlled polyp prevention studies:

Nervous system disorders: Cerebral infarction

Eye disorders: Vitreous floaters, conjunctival hemorrhage

Ear and labyrinth: Labyrinthitis

Cardiac disorders: Angina unstable, aortic valve incompetence, coronary artery atherosclerosis, sinus bradycardia, ventricular hypertrophy

Vascular disorders: Deep vein thrombosis

Reproductive system and breast disorders: Ovarian cyst

Investigations: Blood potassium increased, blood sodium increased, blood testosterone decreased

Injury, poisoning, and procedural complications: Epicondylitis, tendon rupture

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of celecoxib. 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.

Cardiovascular: Vasculitis, deep venous thrombosis

General: Anaphylactoid reaction, angioedema

Liver and biliary: Liver necrosis, hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic failure

Hemic and lymphatic: Agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, pancytopenia, leucopenia

Metabolic: Hypoglycemia, hyponatremia

Nervous: Aseptic meningitis, ageusia, anosmia, fatal intracranial hemorrhage

Renal: Interstitial nephritis

Skin and Appendages: Erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and fixed drug eruption (FDE).

Drug Interactions for Vyscoxa

See Table 3 for clinically significant drug interactions with celecoxib.

Table 3: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Celecoxib

Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis
Clinical Impact:	·   Celecoxib and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of celecoxib and anticoagulants have an increased risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone.
	·   Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone.
Intervention:	Monitor patients with concomitant use of VYSCOXA with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), SSRIs, and SNRIs for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Aspirin
Clinical Impact:	Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. In two studies in healthy volunteers, and in patients with osteoarthritis and established heart disease respectively, celecoxib (200 mg to 400 mg daily) has demonstrated a lack of interference with the cardioprotective antiplatelet effect of aspirin (100 mg to 325 mg).
Intervention:	Concomitant use of VYSCOXA and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]. VYSCOXA is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers
Clinical Impact:	·     NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers (including propranolol). ·     In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible.
Intervention:	·     During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained. ·     During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and ACE inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]. ·     When these drugs are administered concomitantly, patients should be adequately hydrated. Assess renal function at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter.
Diuretics
Clinical Impact:	Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide
	diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Digoxin
Clinical Impact:	The concomitant use of Celecoxib with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin.
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels.
Lithium
Clinical Impact:	NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance. The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15%, and the renal clearance decreased by approximately 20%. This effect has been attributed to NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and lithium, monitor patients for signs of lithium toxicity.
Methotrexate
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of NSAIDs and methotrexate may increase the risk for methotrexate toxicity (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, renal dysfunction). Celecoxib has no effect on methotrexate pharmacokinetics.
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and methotrexate, monitor patients for methotrexate toxicity.
Cyclosporine
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of celecoxib and cyclosporine may increase cyclosporine’s nephrotoxicity.
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and cyclosporine, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.
NSAIDs and Salicylates
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of Celecoxib with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) increases the risk of GI toxicity, with little or no increase in efficacy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Intervention:	The concomitant use of VYSCOXA with other NSAIDs or salicylates is not recommended.
Pemetrexed
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of celecoxib and pemetrexed may increase the risk of pemetrexed-associated myelosuppression, renal, and GI toxicity (see the pemetrexed prescribing information).
Intervention:	During concomitant use of VYSCOXA and pemetrexed, in patients with renal impairment whose creatinine clearance ranges from 45 to 79 mL/min, monitor for myelosuppression, renal and GI toxicity. NSAIDs with short elimination half-lives (e.g., diclofenac, indomethacin) should be avoided for a period of two days before, the day of, and two days following administration of pemetrexed. In the absence of data regarding potential interaction between pemetrexed and NSAIDs with longer half-lives (e.g., meloxicam, nabumetone), patients taking these NSAIDs should interrupt dosing for at least five days before, the day of, and two days following pemetrexed administration.
CYP2C9 Inhibitors or inducers
Clinical Impact:	Celecoxib metabolism is predominantly mediated via cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 in the liver. Co-administration of celecoxib with drugs that are known to inhibit CYP2C9 (e.g., fluconazole) may enhance the exposure and toxicity of celecoxib whereas co-administration with CYP2C9 inducers (e.g., rifampin) may lead to compromised efficacy of celecoxib.
Intervention:	Evaluate each patient's medical history when consideration is given to prescribing VYSCOXA. A dosage adjustment may be warranted when VYSCOXA is administered with CYP2C9 inhibitors or inducers [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
CYP2D6 substrates
Clinical Impact:	In vitro studies indicate that celecoxib, although not a substrate, is an inhibitor of CYP2D6. Therefore, there is a potential for an in vivo drug interaction with drugs that are metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., atomoxetine), and celecoxib may enhance the exposure and toxicity of these drugs.
Intervention:	Evaluate each patient's medical history when consideration is given to prescribing VYSCOXA. A dosage adjustment may be warranted when VYSCOXA is administered with CYP2D6 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Corticosteroids
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of corticosteroids with celecoxib may increase the risk of GI ulceration or bleeding.
Intervention:	Monitor patients with concomitant use of VYSCOXA with corticosteroids for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Warnings for Vyscoxa

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

Precautions for Vyscoxa

Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events

Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal. Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease. However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate. Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment. The increase in CV thrombotic risk has been observed most consistently at higher doses.

In the APC (Adenoma Prevention with Celecoxib) trial, there was about a threefold increased risk of the composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, MI, or stroke for the celecoxib 400 mg twice daily and celecoxib 200 mg twice daily treatment arms compared to placebo. The increases in both celecoxib dose groups versus placebo-treated patients were mainly due to an increased incidence of myocardial infarction [see Clinical Studies (14.6)].

A randomized controlled trial entitled the Prospective Randomized Evaluation of Celecoxib Integrated Safety vs. Ibuprofen Or Naproxen (PRECISION) was conducted to assess the relative cardiovascular thrombotic risk of a COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, compared to the non-selective NSAIDs naproxen and ibuprofen. Celecoxib 100 mg twice daily was non- inferior to naproxen 375 to 500 mg twice daily and ibuprofen 600 to 800 mg three times daily for the composite endpoint of the Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaboration (APTC), which consists of cardiovascular death (including hemorrhagic death), non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke [see Clinical Studies (14.5)].

To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur.

There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID, such as celecoxib, increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Status Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery

Two large controlled clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of CABG [see Contraindications (4)].

Post-MI Patients

Observational studies conducted in the Danish National Registry have demonstrated that patients treated with NSAIDs in the post-MI period were at increased risk of reinfarction, CV- related death, and all-cause mortality beginning in the first week of treatment. In this same cohort, the incidence of death in the first year post-MI was 20 per 100 person years in NSAID- treated patients compared to 12 per 100 person years in non-NSAID exposed patients.

Although the absolute rate of death declined somewhat after the first year post-MI, the increased relative risk of death in NSAID users persisted over at least the next four years of follow-up.

Avoid the use of VYSCOXA in patients with a recent MI unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent CV thrombotic events. If VYSCOXA is used in patients with a recent MI, monitor patients for signs of cardiac ischemia.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation

NSAIDs, including celecoxib cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with VYSCOXA. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs occurred in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3 to 6 months, and in about 2% to 4% of patients treated for one year. However, even short-term NSAID therapy is not without risk.

Risk Factors for GI Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation

Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding who used NSAIDs had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Other factors that increase the risk of GI bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs include longer duration of NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet drugs (such as aspirin), anticoagulants; or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); smoking; use of alcohol; older age; and poor general health status. Most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in elderly or debilitated patients. Additionally, patients with advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy are at increased risk for GI bleeding.

Complicated and symptomatic ulcer rates were 0.78% at nine months for all patients in the CLASS trial, and 2.19% for the subgroup on low-dose ASA. Patients 65 years of age and older had an incidence of 1.40% at nine months, 3.06% when also taking ASA [see Clinical Studies (14.6)].

Strategies to Minimize the GI Risks in NSAID-treated patients:

• Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration.
• Avoid administration of more than one NSAID at a time.
• Avoid use in patients at higher risk unless benefits are expected to outweigh the increased risk of bleeding. For such patients, as well as those with active GI bleeding, consider alternate therapies other than NSAIDs.
• Remain alert for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding during NSAID therapy.
• If a serious GI adverse event is suspected, promptly initiate evaluation and treatment, and discontinue VYSCOXA until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out.
• In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, monitor patients more closely for evidence of GI bleeding [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Hepatotoxicity

Elevations of ALT or AST (three or more times the upper limit of normal [ULN]) have been reported in approximately 1% of NSAID-treated patients in clinical trials. In addition, rare, sometimes fatal, cases of severe hepatic injury, including fulminant hepatitis, liver necrosis, and hepatic failure have been reported.

Elevations of ALT or AST (less than three times ULN) may occur in up to 15% of patients treated with NSAIDs including celecoxib.

In controlled clinical trials of celecoxib, the incidence of borderline elevations (greater than or equal to 1.2 times and less than 3 times the upper limit of normal) of liver associated enzymes was 6% for celecoxib and 5% for placebo, and approximately 0.2% of patients taking celecoxib and 0.3% of patients taking placebo had notable elevations of ALT and AST.

Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, diarrhea, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and “flu-like” symptoms). If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash), discontinue VYSCOXA immediately, and perform a clinical evaluation of the patient.

Hypertension

NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which may contribute to the increased incidence of CV events. Patients taking angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, thiazide diuretics or loop diuretics may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs [see Drug Interactions (7)].

See Clinical Studies (14.5, 14.6) for additional blood pressure data for VYSCOXA.

Monitor blood pressure (BP) during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

Heart Failure and Edema

The Coxib and traditional NSAID Trialists’ Collaboration meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials demonstrated an approximately two-fold increase in hospitalizations for heart failure in COX-2 selective-treated patients and nonselective NSAID-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients. In a Danish National Registry study of patients with heart failure, NSAID use increased the risk of MI, hospitalization for heart failure, and death.

Additionally, fluid retention and edema have been observed in some patients treated with NSAIDs. Use of celecoxib may blunt the CV effects of several therapeutic agents used to treat these medical conditions (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs]) [see Drug Interactions (7)].

In the CLASS study [see Clinical Studies (14.6)], the Kaplan-Meier cumulative rates at 9 months of peripheral edema in patients on celecoxib 400 mg twice daily (4-fold and 2-fold the recommended OA and RA doses, respectively), ibuprofen 800 mg three times daily and diclofenac 75 mg twice daily were 4.5 %, 6.9% and 4.7%, respectively.

Avoid the use of VYSCOXA in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are 

expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. If VYSCOXA is used in patients with severe heart failure, monitor patients for signs of worsening heart failure.

Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia

Renal Toxicity

Long-term administration of NSAIDs has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury.

Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients, administration of an NSAID may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction, those taking diuretics, ACE inhibitors or the ARBs, and the elderly.

Discontinuation of NSAID therapy is usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.

No information is available from controlled clinical studies regarding the use of celecoxib in patients with advanced renal disease. The renal effects of celecoxib may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease.

Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating VYSCOXA. Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during use of VYSCOXA [see Drug Interactions (7)]. Avoid the use of VYSCOXA in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function. If VYSCOXA is used in patients with advanced renal disease, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.

Hyperkalemia

Increases in serum potassium concentration, including hyperkalemia, have been reported with use of NSAIDs, even in some patients without renal impairment. In patients with normal renal function, these effects have been attributed to a hyporeninemic- hypoaldosteronism state.

Anaphylactic Reactions

Celecoxib has been associated with anaphylactic reactions in patients with and without known hypersensitivity to celecoxib and in patients with aspirin sensitive asthma. Celecoxib is a sulfonamide and both NSAIDs and sulfonamides may cause allergic type reactions including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

Seek emergency help if any anaphylactic reaction occurs.

Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity

A subpopulation of patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma which may include chronic rhinosinusitis complicated by nasal polyps; severe, potentially fatal bronchospasm; and/or intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Because cross-reactivity between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, VYSCOXA is contraindicated in patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity [see Contraindications (4)]. When VYSCOXA is used in patients with preexisting asthma (without known aspirin sensitivity), monitor patients for changes in the signs and symptoms of asthma.

Serious Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions have occurred following treatment with celecoxib, including erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and fixed drug eruption (FDE) which may present as a more severe variant known as generalized bullous fixed drug eruption (GBFDE). These serious events may occur without warning and can be fatal.

Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin reactions, and to discontinue the use of VYSCOXA at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. VYSCOXA is contraindicated in patients with previous serious skin reactions to NSAIDs [see Contraindications (4)].

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) has been reported in patients taking NSAIDs such as celecoxib. Some of these events have been fatal or life- threatening. DRESS typically, although not exclusively, presents with fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and/or facial swelling. Other clinical manifestations may include hepatitis, nephritis, hematological abnormalities, myocarditis, or myositis. Sometimes symptoms of DRESS may resemble an acute viral infection. Eosinophilia is often present. Because this disorder is variable in its presentation, other organ systems not noted here may be involved. It is important to note that early manifestations of hypersensitivity, such as fever or lymphadenopathy, may be present even though rash is not evident. If such signs or symptoms are present, discontinue VYSCOXA and evaluate the patient immediately.

Fetal Toxicity

Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus

Avoid use of NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, in pregnant women at about 30 weeks gestation and later. NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, increase the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus at approximately this gestational age.

Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment

Use of NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. These adverse outcomes are seen, on average, after days to weeks of treatment, although oligohydramnios has been infrequently reported as soon as 48 hours after NSAID initiation. Oligohydramnios is often, but not always, reversible with treatment discontinuation. Complications of prolonged oligohydramnios may, for example, include limb contractures and delayed lung maturation. In some postmarketing cases of impaired neonatal renal function, invasive procedures such as exchange transfusion or dialysis were required.

If NSAID treatment is necessary between about 20 weeks and 30 weeks gestation, limit VYSCOXA use to the lowest effective dose and shortest duration possible. Consider ultrasound monitoring of amniotic fluid if VYSCOXA treatment extends beyond 48 hours. Discontinue VYSCOXA if oligohydramnios occurs and follow up according to clinical practice [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

HematologicToxicity

Anemia has occurred in NSAID-treated patients. This may be due to occult or gross blood loss, fluid retention, or an incompletely described effect on erythropoiesis. If a patient treated with VYSCOXA has any signs or symptoms of anemia, monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit.

In controlled clinical trials the incidence of anemia was 0.6% with celecoxib and 0.4% with placebo. Patients on long-term treatment with VYSCOXA should have their hemoglobin or hematocrit checked if they exhibit any signs or symptoms of anemia or blood loss.

NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Co-morbid conditions such as coagulation disorders or concomitant use of warfarin, other anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), SSRIs and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase this risk. Monitor these patients for signs of bleeding [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Masking of Inflammation and Fever

The pharmacological activity of VYSCOXA in reducing inflammation, and possibly fever, may diminish the utility of diagnostic signs in detecting infections.

Laboratory Monitoring

Because serious GI bleeding, hepatotoxicity, and renal injury can occur without warning symptoms or signs, consider monitoring patients on long-term NSAID treatment with a CBC and a chemistry profile periodically [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3, 5.6)].

In controlled clinical trials, elevated BUN occurred more frequently in patients receiving celecoxib compared with patients on placebo. This laboratory abnormality was also seen in patients who received comparator NSAIDs in these studies. The clinical significance of this abnormality has not been established.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Because of the risk of disseminated intravascular coagulation with use of VYSCOXA in pediatric patients with systemic onset JRA, monitor patients for signs and symptoms of abnormal clotting or bleeding, and inform patients and their caregivers to report symptoms as soon as possible.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis

Celecoxib was not carcinogenic in Sprague-Dawley rats given oral doses up to 200 mg/kg for males and 10 mg/kg for females (approximately 2- to 4-times the human exposure as measured by the AUC0-24h at 200 mg twice daily) or in mice given oral doses up to 25 mg/kg for males and 50 mg/kg for females (approximately equal to human exposure as measured by the AUC0-24h at 200 mg twice daily) for two years.

Mutagenesis

Celecoxib was not mutagenic in an Ames test and a mutation assay in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, nor clastogenic in a chromosome aberration assay in CHO cells and an in vivo micronucleus test in rat bone marrow.

Impairment of Fertility

Celecoxib had no effect on male or female fertility or male reproductive function in rats at oral doses up to 600 mg/kg/day (approximately 11-times human exposure at 200 mg twice daily based on the AUC0-24h). At ³50 mg/kg/day (approximately 6-times human exposure based on the AUC0-24h at 200 mg twice daily) there was increased preimplantation loss.

Animal Toxicology

An increase in the incidence of background findings of spermatocele with or without secondary changes such as epididymal hypospermia as well as minimal to slight dilation of the seminiferous tubules was seen in the juvenile rat. These reproductive findings while apparently treatment-related did not increase in incidence or severity with dose and may indicate an exacerbation of a spontaneous condition. Similar reproductive findings were not observed in studies of juvenile or adult dogs or in adult rats treated with celecoxib. The clinical significance of this observation is unknown.

PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide) that accompanies each prescription dispensed. Inform patients, families, or their caregivers of the following information before initiating therapy with VYSCOXA and periodically during the course of ongoing therapy.

Significant Food Effect

Counsel patients that they must take VYSCOXA on an empty stomach and, if there are tolerability issues, to discontinue use of VYSCOXA. Do not advise patients to take VYSCOXA with food.

Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events

Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events, including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech, and to report any of these symptoms to their health care provider immediately [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation

Advise patients to report symptoms of ulcerations and bleeding, including epigastric pain, dyspepsia, melena, and hematemesis to their health care provider. In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, inform patients of the increased risk for and the signs and symptoms of GI bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Hepatotoxicity

Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, pruritus, diarrhea jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and “flu-like” symptoms). If these occur, instruct patients to stop VYSCOXA and seek immediate medical therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Heart Failure and Edema

Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of congestive heart failure including shortness of breath, unexplained weight gain, or edema and to contact their healthcare provider if such symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Anaphylactic Reactions

Inform patients of the signs of an anaphylactic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat). Instruct patients to seek immediate emergency help if these occur [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Serious Skin Reactions, including DRESS

Advise patients to stop taking VYSCOXA immediately if they develop any type of rash or fever and to contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9, 5.10)].

Female Fertility

Advise females of reproductive potential who desire pregnancy that NSAIDs, including VYSCOXA, may be associated with a reversible delay in ovulation [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Fetal Toxicity

Inform pregnant women to avoid use of VYSCOXA and other NSAIDs starting at 30 weeks of gestation because of the risk of the premature closing of the fetal ductus arteriosus. If treatment with VYSCOXA is needed for a pregnant woman between about 20 to 30 weeks gestation, advise her that she may need to be monitored for oligohydramnios, if treatment continues for longer than 48 hours [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Avoid Concomitant Use of NSAIDs

Inform patients that the concomitant use of VYSCOXA with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) is not recommended due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity, and little or no increase in efficacy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7)].

Alert patients that NSAIDs may be present in “over the counter” medications for treatment of colds, fever, or insomnia.

Use of NSAIDS and Low-Dose Aspirin

Inform patients not to use low-dose aspirin concomitantly with VYSCOXA until they talk to their healthcare provider [see Drug Interactions (7)].

OVERDOSAGE

Symptoms following acute NSAID overdosages have been typically limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which have been generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding has occurred. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma have occurred, but were rare [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.4, 5.6)].

No overdoses of celecoxib were reported during clinical trials. Doses up to 2400 mg/day for up to 10 days in 12 patients did not result in serious toxicity. No information is available regarding the removal of celecoxib by hemodialysis, but based on its high degree of plasma protein binding (>97%) dialysis is unlikely to be useful in overdose.

Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. Consider emesis and/or activated charcoal (60 to 100 grams in adults, 1 to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients seen within four hours of ingestion or in patients with a large overdosage (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage). Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding.

For additional information about overdosage treatment contact a poison control center (1-800-222- 1222).

Contraindications for Vyscoxa

VYSCOXA is contraindicated in the following patients:

• Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to celecoxib, any components of the drug product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7,  5.9)].
• History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs, have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7, 5.8)].
• In the setting of CABG surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
• In patients who have demonstrated allergic-type reactions to sulfonamides [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Clinical Pharmacology for Vyscoxa

Mechanism of Action

Celecoxib has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.

The mechanism of action of celecoxib is believed to be due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, primarily via inhibition of COX-2. Celecoxib is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro. Celecoxib concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Since celecoxib is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.

Pharmacodynamics

Platelets

In clinical trials using normal volunteers, another formulation of celecoxib at single doses up to 800 mg and multiple doses of 600 mg twice daily for up to 7 days duration (higher than recommended therapeutic doses) had no effect on reduction of platelet aggregation or increase in bleeding time.

Because of its lack of platelet effects, celecoxib is not a substitute for aspirin for cardiovascular prophylaxis. It is not known if there are any effects of celecoxib on platelets that may contribute to the increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic adverse events associated with the use of celecoxib.

Fluid Retention

Inhibition of PGE2 synthesis may lead to sodium and water retention through increased reabsorption in the renal medullary thick ascending loop of Henle and perhaps other segments of the distal nephron. In the collecting ducts, PGE2 appears to inhibit water reabsorption by counteracting the action of antidiuretic hormone.

Pharmacokinetics

Celecoxib has extensive distribution and high protein binding. It is primarily metabolized by CYP2C9 with a half-life of approximately 11 hours.

Absorption

Following a single dose administration of 200 mg VYSCOXA and 200 mg celecoxib capsules under fasting condition in 52 healthy subjects, the median time to peak plasma levels (i.e., Tmax) of celecoxib was 1.5 hours (range 0.67 – 8.00 hours) and 2.5 hours (range 1.00 – 8.00 hours), respectively. The overall systemic exposure (AUC) of a 200 mg dose of VYSCOXA was equivalent to celecoxib capsules with a decrease in peak plasma levels (i.e., Cmax) of 22%. There were no significant alterations in terminal half-life values between VYSCOXA and celecoxib capsules. When celecoxib capsules were administered under fasting condition, both Cmax and AUC were roughly dose-proportional up to 200 mg twice daily, at higher dose there were less than proportional increases in Cmax and AUC which is thought to be due to the low solubility of the drug in aqueous media. The comparative bioavailability between VYSCOXA and celecoxib capsules at doses above 200 mg has not been determined. Absolute bioavailability studies have not been conducted. With multiple dosing of celecoxib, steady-state conditions are reached on or before Day 5.

Effects of Food

When a single dose of 200 mg VYSCOXA was taken with a high fat, high-calorie meal, the median Tmax was delayed by 1.5 hours. The extent and rate of absorption of celecoxib was significantly increased when a single dose of 200 mg VYSCOXA was administered under fed conditions compared to the fasting state and showed an increase in the mean AUC_(0-t), AUC_(0-∞), and C_max of celecoxib by 50%, 35%, and 144%, respectively. [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

Distribution

In healthy subjects, celecoxib is highly protein bound (~97%) within the clinical dose range. In vitro studies indicate that celecoxib binds primarily to albumin and, to a lesser extent, α1-acid glycoprotein. The apparent volume of distribution at steady state (Vss/F) is approximately 400 L, suggesting extensive distribution into the tissues. Celecoxib is not preferentially bound to red blood cells.

Elimination

Metabolism

Celecoxib metabolism is primarily mediated via CYP2C9. Three metabolites, a primary alcohol, the corresponding carboxylic acid and its glucuronide conjugate, have been identified in human plasma. These metabolites are inactive as COX-1 or COX-2 inhibitors.

Excretion

Celecoxib is eliminated predominantly by hepatic metabolism with little (<3%) unchanged drug recovered in the urine and feces. Following a single oral dose of radiolabeled drug, approximately 57% of the dose was excreted in the feces and 27% was excreted into the urine. The primary metabolite in both urine and feces was the carboxylic acid metabolite (73% of dose) with low amounts of the glucuronide also appearing in the urine. It appears that the low solubility of the drug prolongs the absorption process making terminal half-life (t1/2) determinations more variable. The effective half-life is approximately 11 hours under fasted conditions. The apparent plasma clearance (CL/F) is about 500 mL/min.

Specific Populations

Geriatric

At steady state, elderly subjects (over 65 years old) had a 40% higher Cmax and a 50% higher AUC compared to the young subjects. In elderly females, celecoxib Cmax and AUC are higher than those for elderly males, but these increases are predominantly due to lower body weight in elderly females. Dose adjustment in the elderly is not generally necessary. However, for patients of less than 50 kg in body weight, initiate therapy at the lowest recommended dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

Pediatric

The steady state pharmacokinetics of celecoxib administered as an investigational oral suspension was evaluated in 152 JRA patients 2 years to 17 years of age weighing ≥10 kg with pauciarticular or polyarticular course JRA and in patients with systemic onset JRA.

Population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the oral clearance (unadjusted for body weight) of celecoxib increases less than proportionally to increasing weight, with 10 kg and 25 kg patients predicted to have 40% and 24% lower clearance, respectively, compared with a 70 kg adult RA patient.

Twice-daily administration of 50 mg celecoxib to JRA patients weighing ≥12 to ≤25 kg and 100 mg celecoxib to JRA patients weighing >25 kg should achieve plasma concentrations similar to those observed in a clinical trial that demonstrated the non-inferiority of celecoxib to naproxen 7.5 mg/kg twice daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. Celecoxib has not been studied in JRA patients under the age of 2 years, in patients with body weight less than 10 kg (22 lbs), or beyond 24 weeks.

Race

Meta-analysis of pharmacokinetic studies has suggested an approximately 40% higher AUC of celecoxib in Blacks compared to Caucasians. The cause and clinical significance of this finding is unknown.

Hepatic Impairment

A pharmacokinetic study in subjects with mild (Child-Pugh Class A) and moderate (Child- Pugh Class B) hepatic impairment has shown that steady-state celecoxib AUC is increased about 40% and 180%, respectively, above that seen in healthy control subjects. Therefore, the daily recommended dose of VYSCOXA should be reduced by approximately 50% in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) hepatic impairment. Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) have not been studied. The use of VYSCOXA in patients with severe hepatic impairment is not recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Renal Impairment

In a cross-study comparison, celecoxib AUC was approximately 40% lower in patients with chronic renal insufficiency (GFR 35-60 mL/min) than that seen in subjects with normal renal function. No significant relationship was found between GFR and celecoxib clearance.

Patients with severe renal insufficiency have not been studied. Similar to other NSAIDs, VYSCOXA is not recommended in patients with severe renal insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

Drug Interaction Studies

In vitro studies indicate that celecoxib is not an inhibitor of cytochrome P450 2C9, 2C19 or 3A4. In vivo studies have shown the following:

Aspirin

When NSAIDs were administered with aspirin, the protein binding of NSAIDs were reduced, although the clearance of free NSAID was not altered. The clinical significance of this interaction is not known. See Table 3 for clinically significant drug interactions of NSAIDs with aspirin [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Lithium

In a study conducted in healthy subjects, mean steady-state lithium plasma levels increased approximately 17% in subjects receiving lithium 450 mg twice daily with celecoxib 200 mg twice daily as compared to subjects receiving lithium alone [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Fluconazole

Concomitant administration of fluconazole at 200 mg once daily resulted in a two-fold increase in celecoxib plasma concentration. This increase is due to the inhibition of celecoxib metabolism via P450 2C9 by fluconazole [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Aluminum- and Magnesium Containing Antacids

Coadministration of celecoxib with an aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids resulted in reduction in plasma celecoxib concentrations with a decrease of 37% in Cmax and 10% in AUC.

Other Drugs

The effects of celecoxib on the pharmacokinetics and/or pharmacodynamics of glyburide, ketoconazole, [see Drug Interactions (7)], phenytoin, and tolbutamide have been studied in vivo and clinically important interactions have not been found.

Pharmacogenomics

CYP2C9 activity is reduced in individuals with genetic polymorphisms that lead to reduced enzyme activity, such as those homozygous for the CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 polymorphisms. Limited data from 4 published reports that included a total of 8 subjects with the homozygous CYP2C9*3/*3 genotype showed celecoxib systemic levels that were 3- to 7-fold higher in these subjects compared to subjects with CYP2C9*1/*1 or *I/*3 genotypes. The pharmacokinetics of celecoxib have not been evaluated in subjects with other CYP2C9 polymorphisms, such as *2, *5, *6, *9 and *11. It is estimated that the frequency of the homozygous *3/*3 genotype is 0.3% to 1.0% in various ethnic groups [see Dosage and Administration (2.6), Use in Specific Populations (8.8)].

Medication Guide
VYSCOXA™(vis kak s?)
(celecoxib)
oral suspension

VYSCOXA is a prescription medicine that contains celecoxib (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug [NSAID]).

Do not take VYSCOXA with food. VYSCOXA must be taken on an empty stomach at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after food. If you cannot tolerate VYSCOXA on an empty stomach, stop taking VYSCOXA and tell your healthcare provider.

What is the most important information I should know about VYSCOXA, and medicines called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?

VYSCOXA may cause serious side effects, including:

• Increased risk of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to This risk may happen early in treatment and may increase:
  • with increasing doses of NSAIDs
  • with longer use of NSAIDs

Do not take VYSCOXA right before or after a heart surgery called a “coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)".

Avoid taking VYSCOXA after a recent heart attack, unless your healthcare provider tells you to. You may have an increased risk of another heart attack if you take VYSCOXA after a recent heart attack.

• Increased risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears (perforation) of the esophagus (tube leading from the mouth to the stomach), stomach and intestines:
  • anytime during use
  • without warning symptoms
  • that may cause death

• The risk of getting an ulcer or bleeding increases with:
  • history of stomach ulcers, or stomach or intestinal bleeding with use of NSAIDs
  • taking medicines called “corticosteroids”, “antiplatelet drugs”, “anticoagulants”, “selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)”, or “serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)”

  • increasing doses of NSAIDs longer use of NSAIDs smoking drinking alcohol

    older age poor health advanced liver disease bleeding problems

• VYSCOXA should only be used:
  • exactly as prescribed
  • at the lowest dose possible for your treatment
  • for the shortest time needed

What is VYSCOXA?

VYSCOXA is a prescription medicine used:

• for management of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis in adults
• for management of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in adults
• for management of the signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis in adults
• for management of the signs and symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) in children 2 years of age and older

VYSCOXA is not used for management of the signs and symptoms of short-term pain or treatment of menstrual cramps.

It is not known if VYSCOXA is safe and effective in children with JRA less than 2 years of age, with a body weight less than 22 pounds (10 kg), and with active signs and symptoms.

It is not known if VYSCOXA is safe and effective in children with osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.

Do not take VYSCOXA:

• if you are allergic to celecoxib or to any of the ingredients in See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in VYSCOXA.
• if you have had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction after taking aspirin or any other NSAIDs
• right before or after heart bypass surgery
• if you have a history of allergic reactions to sulfonamides medicines. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure.

Before taking VYSCOXA tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have heart problems
• have bleeding problems
• have had ulcers
• have liver or kidney problems
• have high blood pressure
• have asthma
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Taking VYSCOXA at about 20 weeks of pregnancy or later may harm your unborn If you need to take VYSCOXA for more than 2 days when you are between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, your healthcare provider may need to monitor the amount of fluid in your womb around your baby. You should not take VYSCOXA after about 30 weeks of pregnancy.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with VYSCOXA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you or your child take, including prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins or herbal supplements.

VYSCOXA and some other medicines can interact with each other and cause serious side effects.

Do not start taking any new medicine without talking to your healthcare provider first.

How should I take VYSCOXA?

• Take VYSCOXA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.
• If you take too much VYSCOXA, call your healthcare provider or Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

What are the possible side effects of VYSCOXA? VYSCOXA can cause serious side effects, including:

See “What is the most important information I should know about VYSCOXA, and medicines called Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?”

• liver problems including liver failure
• new or worse high blood pressure
• heart failure
• kidney problems including kidney failure
• increase in blood potassium level (hyperkalemia)
• life-threatening allergic reactions
• asthma attacks in people who have asthma
• low red blood cells (anemia)
• life-threatening skin reactions
• Otherside effects of VYSCOXA include stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and rash.

Get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms:

shortness of breath or trouble breathing chest pain weakness in one part or side of your body

slurred speech swelling of the face or throat

Stop taking your VYSCOXA and call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms:

nausea more tired or weaker than usual diarrhea itching your skin or eyes look yellow indigestion or stomach pain flu-like symptoms

vomit blood there is blood in your bowel movement or it is black and sticky like tar unusual weight gain skin rash or blisters with fever swelling of the arms, legs, hands and feet

These are not all the possible side effects of VYSCOXA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Other information about NSAIDs

• Aspirin is an NSAID but it does not increase the chance of a heart attack. Aspirin can cause bleeding in the brain, stomach, and Aspirin can also cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines.
• Some NSAIDs are sold in lower doses without a prescription (over-the counter). Talk to your healthcare provider before using over-the- counter NSAIDs for more than 10 days.

How should I store VYSCOXA?

• Store VYSCOXA at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep the VYSCOXA bottles tightly closed and away from Shake the bottle well before use.
• Throw (discard) the VYSCOXA bottle away 21 days after opening.

Keep VYSCOXA and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General information about the safe and effective use of VYSCOXA.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use VYSCOXA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give VYSCOXA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about VYSCOSA that is written for health professionals.

What are the ingredients in VYSCOXA?

Active ingredient: celecoxib

Inactive ingredients: anhydrous citric acid, glycerin, magnesium aluminometasilicate, methylparaben, propylparaben, purified water, sodium citrate dihydrate, sucralose, and xanthan gum.

Manufactured for and Distributed by: Carwin Pharmaceutical Associates, LLC, Hazlet, NJ 07730 For more information, go to www.carwinpharma.com or call: 844-700-5011

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.