Posaconazole

Q: Is Posaconazole available over the counter?

Posaconazole is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Prescription

Brand names: posaconazole

Dosage Form

Capsule

Route

ORAL

Manufacturer

Novadoz Pharmaceuticals LLC

About This Medication

11 DESCRIPTION Posaconazole is an azole antifungal agent. Posaconazole is available as delayed-release tablet intended for oral administration. Posaconazole is designated chemically as 4-[4-[4-[4-[[(3R,5R)-5-(2,4-difluorophenyl)tetrahydro-5-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-ylmethyl)-3-furanyl]methoxy]phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]phenyl]-2-[(1S,2S)-1-ethyl-2-hydroxypropyl]-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one with a molecular formula of C 37 H 42 F 2 N 8 O 4 and a molecular weight of 700.8. The chemical structure is: Posaconazole is a white to off-white color powder with a low aqueous solubility. Posaconazole delayed-release tablet is a yellow colored, capsule shaped, textured, biconvex film-coated tablets debossed with 'MP 1' on one side and plain on other side containing 100 mg of posaconazole. Each delayed-release tablet contains the inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropylcellulose, hypromellose acetate succinate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, iron oxide yellow, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol-partially hydrolyzed, talc, titanium dioxide. pos-dr-tab-structure

Active Ingredients

Ingredient	Strength
Posaconazole	-

Indications & Usage

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Posaconazole is an azole antifungal indicated as follows: Posaconazole is indicated for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in patients who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or those with hematologic malignancies with prolonged neutropenia from chemotherapy as follows: ( 1.2 ) o Posaconazole delayed-release tablets: adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg 1.2 Prophylaxis of Invasive Aspergillus and Candida Infections Posaconazole delayed-release tablets are indicated for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in patients who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or those with hematologic malignancies with prolonged neutropenia from chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] as follows: Posaconazole delayed-release tablets: adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who weigh greater than 40 kg

How It Works

12.1 Mechanism of Action Posaconazole is an azole antifungal agent [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4) ].

Dosage & Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Noxafil ® oral suspension is not substitutable with posaconazole delayed-release tablets or Noxafil ® PowderMix for delayed-release oral suspension due to the differences in the dosing of each formulation. Therefore, follow the specific dosage recommendations for each of the formulations. ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 ) Administer posaconazole delayed-release tablets with or without food. ( 2.1 ) Table 1: Recommended Dosage in Adult Patients Indication Dosage Form, Dose, and Duration of Therapy Prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections Delayed-Release Tablets: Loading dose: 300 mg (three 100 mg delayed-release tablets) twice a day on the first day. Maintenance dose: 300 mg (three 100 mg delayed-release tablets) once a day, starting on the second day. Duration of therapy is based on recovery from neutropenia or immunosuppression. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) For pediatric patients, see the Full Prescribing Information for dosing recommendations for posaconazole delayed-release tablets ( 1.2 , 2.1 , 2.3 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions Non-substitutable Noxafil ® oral suspension is not substitutable with posaconazole delayed-release tablets or Noxafil ® PowderMix for delayed-release oral suspension due to the differences in the dosing of each formulation.Therefore, follow the specific dosage recommendations for each of the formulations [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3 )]. Posaconazole delayed-release tablets Swallow tablets whole. Do not divide, crush, or chew. Administer with or without food [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. For patients who cannot eat a full meal, posaconazole delayed-release tablets should be used instead of Noxafil ® oral suspension for the prophylaxis indication. Posaconazole delayed-release tablets generally provide higher plasma drug exposures than Noxafil ® oral suspension under both fed and fasted conditions, and therefore is the preferred oral formulation for the prophylaxis indication. 2.2 Dosing Regimen in Adult Patients Table 1: Dosing Regimens in Adult Patients Indication D ose and Frequency D uration of Therapy Prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Cand ida infections Load ingdose : 300 mg (three 100 mg delayed-release tablets) twice a day on the first day. Maintenance dose : 300 mg (three 100 mg delayed-release tablets) once a day, starting on the second day. Load ingdose : 1 day Maintenance dose : Duration of therapy is based on recovery from neutropenia or immunosuppression. 2.3 Dosing Regimen in Pediatric Patients (ages 2 to less than 18 years of age) The recommended dosing regimen of posaconazole for pediatric patients 2 to less than 18 years of age is shown in Tables 2 [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Table 2: Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablet Dosing Regimens for Pediatric Patients (ages 2 to less than 18 years of age) Rec ommended Pediatric Dosage and Formulation Indication Weight/Age Delayed-Release Tablet D uration of therapy Prophylaxis of invasive A spergillus and Candida infections Less than or equal to 40 kg (2 to less than 18 years of age) Greater than 40 kg (2 to less than 18 years of age) Not Applicable Load ing dose: 300 mg twice daily on the first day Maintenance dose: 300 mg once daily Duration of therapy is based on recovery from neutropenia or immunosuppression. 2.5 Administration Instructions for Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets Swallow tablets whole. Do not divide, crush, or chew. Administer posaconazole delayed-release tablets with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 2.7 Non-substitutability between Noxafil ® Oral Suspension and Other Formulations Noxafil ® oral suspension is not substitutable with posaconazole delayed-release tablets or Noxafil ® PowderMix for delayed-release oral suspension due to the differences in the dosing of each formulation. Therefore, follow the specific dosage recommendations for each of the formulations [see Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3) ]. 2.9 Dosage Adjustments in Patients with Renal Impairment The pharmacokinetics of posaconazole delayed-release tablets are not significantly affected by renal impairment. Therefore, no adjustment is necessary for oral dosing in patients with mild to severe renal impairment.

Side Effects Overview

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious and otherwise important adverse reactions are discussed in detail in another section of the labeling: Hypersensitivity [ see Contraindications (4.1) ] Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Hepatic Toxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Adult Patients: Common adverse reactions in studies with posaconazole in adults are diarrhea, nausea, fever, vomiting, headache, coughing, and hypokalemia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Novadoz Pharmaceuticals LLC at 1-855-668-2369 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in clinical trials of posaconazole cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Clinical Trial Experience in Adults Clinical Trial Experience with Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets for Prophylaxis The safety of posaconazole delayed-release tablets has been assessed in 230 patients in clinical trials. Patients were enrolled in a non-comparative pharmacokinetic and safety trial of posaconazole delayed-release tablets when given as antifungal prophylaxis (Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablet Study). Patients were immunocompromised with underlying conditions including hematological malignancy, neutropenia post-chemotherapy, GVHD, and post HSCT. This patient population was 62% male, had a mean age of 51 years (range 19 to 78 years, 17% of patients were ≥65 years of age), and were 93% white and 16% Hispanic. Posaconazole therapy was given for a median duration of 28 days. Twenty patients received 200 mg daily dose and 210 patients received 300 mg daily dose (following twice daily dosing on Day 1 in each cohort). Table 9 presents adverse reactions observed in patients treated with 300 mg daily dose at an incidence of ≥10% in Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablet Study. Table 9: Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablet Study: Adverse Reactions in at Least 10% of Subjects Treated with 300 mg Daily Dose B ody System Posaconazole delayed-release tablet (300 mg) n=210 (%) Subjects Reporting any Adverse Reaction 207 (99) Blood and Lymphatic System Disorder Anemia 22 (10) Thrombocytopenia 29 (14) Ga s trointestinal Disorders Abdominal Pain 23 (11) Constipation 20 (10) Diarrhea 61 (29) Nausea 56 (27) Vomiting 28 (13) Genera l Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Asthenia 20 (10) Chills 22 (10) Mucosal Inflammation 29 (14) Edema Peripheral 33 (16) Pyrexia 59 (28) Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Hypokalemia 46 (22) Hypomagnesemia 20 (10) Ner v ou s System Disorders Headache 30 (14) Re s p iratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders Cough 35 (17) Epistaxis 30 (14) Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Rash 34 (16) Vascular Disorders Hypertension 23 (11) The most frequently reported adverse reactions (>25%) with posaconazole delayed-release tablets 300 mg once daily were diarrhea, pyrexia, and nausea. The most common adverse reaction leading to discontinuation of posaconazole delayed-release tablets 300 mg once daily was nausea (2%). 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reaction has been identified during the post-approval use of posaconazole. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency. Endocrine Disorders : Pseudoaldosteronism

Warnings & Precautions

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Calcineurin-Inhibitor Toxicity : Posaconazole increases concentrations of cyclosporine or tacrolimus; reduce dose of cyclosporine and tacrolimus and monitor concentrations frequently. ( 5.1 ) Arrhythmias and QTc Prolongation : Posaconazole has been shown to prolong the QTc interval and cause cases of TdP. Administer with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions. Do not administer with drugs known to prolong QTc interval and metabolized through CYP3A4. ( 5.2 ) Electrolyte Disturbances : Monitor and correct, especially those involving potassium (K + ), magnesium (Mg ++ ), and calcium (Ca ++ ), before and during posaconazole therapy. ( 5.3 ) Pseudoaldosteronism : Manifested by the onset or worsening of hypertension, and abnormal laboratory findings. Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels, and manage as necessary. ( 5.4 ) Hepatic Toxicity : Elevations in liver tests may occur. Discontinuation should be considered in patients who develop abnormal liver tests or monitor liver tests during treatment. ( 5.5 ) Concomitant Use with Midazolam : Posaconazole can prolong hypnotic/sedative effects. Monitor patients and benzodiazepine receptor antagonists should be available. ( 5.7, 7.5 ) Vincristine Toxicity : Concomitant administration of azole antifungals, including posaconazole, with vincristine has been associated with neurotoxicity and other serious adverse reactions; reserve azole antifungals, including posaconazole, for patients receiving a vinca alkaloid, including vincristine, who have no alternative antifungal treatment options. ( 5.8, 7.10 ) Breakthrough Fungal Infections : Monitor patients with severe diarrhea or vomiting when receiving posaconazole delayed-release tablets. ( 5.10 ) Venetoclax Toxicity : Concomitant administration of posaconazole with venetoclax may increase venetoclax toxicities, including the risk of tumor lysis syndrome, neutropenia, and serious infections; monitor for toxicity and reduce venetoclax dose. ( 4.6 , 5. 11, 7.16 ) 5.1 Calcineurin-Inhibitor Toxicity Concomitant administration of posaconazole with cyclosporine or tacrolimus increases the whole blood trough concentrations of these calcineurin-inhibitors [ see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Nephrotoxicity and leukoencephalopathy (including deaths) have been reported in clinical efficacy studies in patients with elevated cyclosporine or tacrolimus concentrations. Frequent monitoring of tacrolimus or cyclosporine whole blood trough concentrations should be performed during and at discontinuation of posaconazole treatment and the tacrolimus or cyclosporine dose adjusted accordingly. 5.2 Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation Some azoles, including posaconazole, have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram. In addition, cases of torsades de pointes have been reported in patients taking posaconazole. Results from a multiple time-matched ECG analysis in healthy volunteers did not show any increase in the mean of the QTc interval. Multiple, time-matched ECGs collected over a 12-hour period were recorded at baseline and steady-state from 173 healthy male and female volunteers (18 to 85 years of age) administered Noxafil ® oral suspension 400 mg twice daily with a high-fat meal. In this pooled analysis, the mean QTc (Fridericia) interval change from baseline was –5 msec following administration of the recommended clinical dose. A decrease in the QTc(F) interval (–3 msec) was also observed in a small number of subjects (n=16) administered placebo. The placebo-adjusted mean maximum QTc(F) interval change from baseline was <0 msec (–8 msec). No healthy subject administered posaconazole had a QTc(F) interval ≥500 msec or an increase ≥60 msec in their QTc(F) interval from baseline. Posaconazole should be administered with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions. Do not administer with drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval and are metabolized through CYP3A4 [ see Contraindications (4.3) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ]. 5.3 Electrolyte Disturbances Electrolyte disturbances, especially those involving potassium, magnesium or calcium levels, should be monitored and corrected as necessary before and during posaconazole therapy. 5.4 Pseudoaldosteronism Pseudoal dos teronism, manifested by the onset of hypertension or worsening of hypertension, and abnormal laboratory findings (hypokalemia, low serum renin and aldo ster one, and elevated 11-deoxycortisol), has been reported with posaconazole use in the postmarket setting. Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels and ma nage as necessary. Management of pseudoaldosteronism may include discontinuation of posaconazole, substitution with an appropriate antifungal drug that is not ass ocia ted with pseudoaldosteronism, or use of aldosterone receptor antagonists. 5.5 Hepatic Toxicity Hepatic reactions (e.g., mild to moderate elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and/or clinical hepatitis) have been reported in clinical trials. The elevations in liver tests were generally reversible on discontinuation of therapy, and in some instances these tests normalized without drug interruption. Cases of more severe hepatic reactions including cholestasis or hepatic failure including deaths have been reported in patients with serious underlying medical conditions (e.g., hematologic malignancy) during treatment with posaconazole. These severe hepatic reactions were seen primarily in subjects receiving the Noxafil ® oral suspension 800 mg daily (400 mg twice daily or 200 mg four times a day) in clinical trials. Liver tests should be evaluated at the start of and during the course of posaconazole therapy. Patients who develop abnormal liver tests during posaconazole therapy should be monitored for the development of more severe hepatic injury. Patient management should include laboratory evaluation of hepatic function (particularly liver tests and bilirubin). Discontinuation of posaconazole must be considered if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop that may be attributable to posaconazole. 5.6 Renal Impairment Due to the variability in exposure with posaconazole delayed-release tablets, patients with severe renal impairment should be monitored closely for breakthrough fungal infections [ see Dosage and Administration (2.9) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ]. 5.7 Midazolam Toxicity Concomitant administration of posaconazole with midazolam increases the midazolam plasma concentrations by approximately 5-fold. Increased plasma midazolam concentrations could potentiate and prolong hypnotic and sedative effects. Patients must be monitored closely for adverse effects associated with high plasma concentrations of midazolam and benzodiazepine receptor antagonists must be available to reverse these effects [ see Drug Interactions (7.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 5.8 Vincristine Toxicity Concomitant administration of azole antifungals, including posaconazole, with vincristine has been associated with neurotoxicity and other serious adverse reactions, including seizures, peripheral neuropathy, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, and paralytic ileus. Reserve azole antifungals, including posaconazole, for patients receiving a vinca alkaloid, including vincristine, who have no alternative antifungal treatment options [ see Drug Interactions (7.10) ]. 5.10 Breakthrough Fungal Infections Patients who have severe diarrhea or vomiting should be monitored closely for breakthrough fungal infections when receiving posaconazole delayed-release tablets. 5.11 Venetoclax Toxicity Concomitant administration of posaconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, with venetoclax may increase venetoclax toxicities, including the risk of tumor lysis syndrome (TLS), neutropenia, and serious infections. In patients with CLL/SLL, administration of posaconazole during initiation and the ramp-up phase of venetoclax is contraindicated [ see Contraindications (4.6 )]. Refer to the venetoclax labeling for safety monitoring and dose reduction in the steady daily dosing phase in CLL/SLL patients. For patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), dose reduction and safety monitoring are recommended across all dosing phases when coadministering posaconazole with venetoclax [ see Drug Interactions (7.16) ]. Refer to the venetoclax prescribing information for dosing instructions.

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Known hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungal agents. ( 4.1 ) Coadministration of posaconazole with the following drugs is contraindicated; posaconazole increases concentrations and toxicities of: Sirolimus ( 4.2 , 5.1 , 7.1 ) CYP3A4 substrates (pimozide, quinidine): can result in QTc interval prolongation and cases of torsades de pointes (TdP) ( 4.3 , 5.2 , 7.2 ) HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Primarily Metabolized through CYP3A4 ( 4.4 , 7.3 ) Ergot alkaloids ( 4.5 , 7.4 ) Venetoclax: In patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) at initiation and during the ramp-up phase ( 4.6 , 5.11 , 7.16 ) 4.1 Hypersensitivity Posaconazole is contraindicated in persons with known hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungal agents. 4.2 Use with Sirolimus Posaconazole is contraindicated with sirolimus. Concomitant administration of posaconazole with sirolimus increases the sirolimus blood concentrations by approximately 9-fold and can result in sirolimus toxicity [ see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 4.3 QT Prolongation with Concomitant Use with CYP3A4 Substrates Posaconazole is contraindicated with CYP3A4 substrates that prolong the QT interval. Concomitant administration of posaconazole with the CYP3A4 substrates, pimozide and quinidine may result in increased plasma concentrations of these drugs, leading to QTc prolongation and cases of torsades de pointes [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ]. 4.4 HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Primarily Metabolized Through CYP3A4 Coadministration with the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that are primarily metabolized through CYP3A4 (e.g., atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin) is contraindicated since increased plasma concentration of these drugs can lead to rhabdomyolysis [ see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 4.5 Use with Ergot Alkaloids Posaconazole may increase the plasma concentrations of ergot alkaloids (ergotamine and dihydroergotamine) which may lead to ergotism [ see Drug Interactions (7.4) ]. 4.6 Use with Venetoclax Coadministration of posaconazole with venetoclax at initiation and during the ramp-up phase is contraindicated in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) due to the potential for increased risk of tumor lysis syndrome [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) and Drug Interactions (7.16) ].

Pharmacokinetics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics General Pharmacokinetic Characteristics Posaconazole delayed-release tablets exhibit dose proportional pharmacokinetics after single and multiple dosing up to 300 mg. The mean pharmacokinetic parameters of posaconazole at steady state following administration of posaconazole delayed-release tablets 300 mg twice daily on Day 1, then 300 mg once daily thereafter in healthy volunteers and in neutropenic patients who are receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy for AML or MDS or HSCT recipients with GVHD are shown in Table 20. Table 20: Arithmetic Mean (%CV) of Steady State PK Parameters in Healthy Volunteers and Patients Following Administration of Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets (300 mg) * N AUC 0-24 hr (ng·hr/mL) Cav † (ng/mL) C max (ng/mL) C min (ng/mL) T max ‡ (hr ) t 1/2 (hr) CL/F (L/hr) Healthy Volunteers 12 51618 (25) 2151 (25) 2764 (21) 1785 (29) 4 (3-6) 31 (40) 7.5 (26) Patients 50 37900 (42) 1580 (42) 2090 (38) 1310 (50) 4 (1.3-8.3) - 9.39 (45) CV = coefficient of variation expressed as a percentage (%CV); AUC 0-T = Area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to 24 hr; C max = maximum observed concentration; C min = minimum observed plasma concentration; T max = time of maximum observed concentration; t ½ = terminal phase half-life; CL/F = Apparent total body clearance * 300 mg twice daily on Day 1, then 300 mg once daily thereafter † Cav = time-averaged concentrations (i.e., AUC 0-24 hr/ 24hr) ‡ Median (minimum-maximum) Absorption: When given orally in healthy volunteers, posaconazole delayed-release tablets are absorbed with a median T max of 4 to 5 hours. Steady-state plasma concentrations are attained by Day 6 at the 300 mg dose (once daily after twice daily loading dose at Day 1). The absolute bioavailability of the oral delayed-release tablet is approximately 54% under fasted conditions. The C max and AUC of posaconazole following administration of posaconazole delayed-release tablets are increased 16% and 51%, respectively, when given with a high fat meal compared to a fasted state (see Table 22 ). Table 22: Statistical Comparison of Plasma Pharmacokinetics of Posaconazole Following Single Oral Dose Administration of 300 mg Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablet to Healthy Subjects under Fasting and Fed Conditions Fasting Conditions Fed Conditions (High Fat Meal)* Fed/Fasting Pharmacokinetic Parameter N Mean (%CV) N Mean (%CV) GMR (90% CI) C max (ng/mL) 14 935 (34) 16 1060 (25) 1.16 (0.96, 1.41) AUC 0-72hr (hr∙ng/mL) 14 26200 (28) 16 38400 (18) 1.51 (1.33, 1.72) T max † (hr) 14 5.00 (3.00, 8.00) 16 6.00 (5.00, 24.00) N/A GMR=Geometric least-squares mean ratio; CI=Confidence interval * 48.5 g fat † Median (Min, Max) reported for T max Concomitant administration of posaconazole delayed-release tablets with drugs affecting gastric pH or gastric motility did not demonstrate any significant effects on posaconazole pharmacokinetic exposure (see Table 23 ). Table 23: The Effect of Concomitant Medications that Affect the Gastric pH and Gastric Motility on the Pharmacokinetics of Posaconazole Delayed-Release Tablets in Healthy Volunteers Coadministered Drug Administration Arms Change in C max (ratio estimate * ; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Change in AUC 0-last (ratio estimate * ; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Mylanta ® Ultimate strength liquid (Increase in gastric pH) 25.4 mEq/5 mL, 20 mL ↑6% (1.06; 0.90 -1.26)↑ ↑4% (1.04; 0.90 -1.20) Ranitidine (Zantac ® ) (Alteration in gastric pH) 150 mg (morning dose of 150 mg Ranitidine twice daily) ↑4% (1.04; 0.88 -1.23)↑ ¯3% (0.97; 0.84 -1.12) Esomeprazole (Nexium ® ) (Increase in gastric pH) 40 mg (every morning for 5 days, Day -4 to 1) ↑2% (1.02; 0.88-1.17)↑ ↑5% (1.05; 0.89 -1.24) Metoclopramide (Reglan ® ) (Increase in gastric motility) 15 mg four times daily for 2 days (Day -1 and 1) ¯14% (0.86, 0.73,1.02) ¯7% (0.93, 0.803,1.07) * Ratio Estimate is the ratio of coadministered drug plus posaconazole to posaconazole alone for C max or AUC 0-last . Distribution: The mean volume of distribution of posaconazole after intravenous solution administration was 261 L and ranged from 226 to 295 L between studies and dose levels. Posaconazole is highly bound to human plasma proteins (>98%), predominantly to albumin. Metabolism: Posaconazole primarily circulates as the parent compound in plasma. Of the circulating metabolites, the majority are glucuronide conjugates formed via UDP glucuronidation (phase 2 enzymes). Posaconazole does not have any major circulating oxidative (CYP450 mediated) metabolites. The excreted metabolites in urine and feces account for ~17% of the administered radiolabeled dose. Posaconazole is primarily metabolized via UDP glucuronidation (phase 2 enzymes) and is a substrate for p-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux. Therefore, inhibitors or inducers of these clearance pathways may affect posaconazole plasma concentrations. A summary of drugs studied clinically with the oral suspension or an early tablet formulation, which affect posaconazole concentrations, is provided in Table 27 . Table 27: Summary of the Effect of Coadministered Drugs on Posaconazole in Healthy Volunteers Coadministered Drug (Postulated Mechanism of Interaction) Coadministered Drug Dose/Schedule Posaconazole Dose/Schedule Effect on Bioavailability of Posaconazole Change in Mean C max (ratio estimate*; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Change in Mean AUC (ratio estimate*; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Efavirenz (UDP-G Induction) 400 mg once daily × 10 and 20 days 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily × 10 and 20 days ¯45% (0.55; 0.47-0.66) ¯50% (0.50; 0.43-0.60) Fosamprenavir (unknown mechanism) 700 mg twice daily x 10 days 200 mg once daily on the 1 st day, 200 mg twice daily on the 2 nd day, then 400 mg twice daily x 8 Days ¯21% 0.79 (0.71-0.89) ¯23% 0.77 (0.68-0.87) Rifabutin (UDP-G Induction) 300 mg once daily x 17 days 200 mg (tablets) once daily × 10 days † ¯43% (0.57; 0.43-0.75) ¯49% (0.51; 0.37-0.71) Phenytoin (UDP-G Induction) 200 mg once daily x 10 days 200 mg (tablets) once daily × 10 days † ¯41% (0.59; 0.44-0.79) ¯50% (0.50; 0.36-0.71) * Ratio Estimate is the ratio of coadministered drug plus posaconazole to posaconazole alone for C max or AUC. † The tablet refers to a non-commercial tablet formulation without polymer. In vitro studies with human hepatic microsomes and clinical studies indicate that posaconazole is an inhibitor primarily of CYP3A4. A clinical study in healthy volunteers also indicates that posaconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor as evidenced by a >5-fold increase in midazolam AUC. Therefore, plasma concentrations of drugs predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4 may be increased by posaconazole. A summary of the drugs studied clinically, for which plasma concentrations were affected by posaconazole, is provided in Table 28 [ see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.1) including recommendations]. Table 28: Summary of the Effect of Posaconazole on Coadministered Drugs in Healthy Adult Volunteers and Patients Coadministered Drug (Postulated Mechanism of Interaction is Inhibition of CYP3A4 by posaconazole) Coadministered Drug Dose/Schedule Posaconazole Dose/ Schedule Effect on Bioavailability of Coadministered Drugs Change in Mean C max (ratio estimate*; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Change in Mean AUC (ratio estimate*; 90% CI of the ratio estimate) Sirolimus 2-mg single oral dose 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 16 days ↑ 572% (6.72; 5.62-8.03) ↑ 788% (8.88; 7.26-10.9) Cyclosporine Stable maintenance dose in heart transplant recipients 200 mg (tablets) once daily x 10 days † ↑cyclosporine whole blood trough concentrations Cyclosporine dose reductions of up to 29% were required Tacrolimus 0.05-mg/kg single oral dose 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily × 7 days ↑ 121% (2.21; 2.01-2.42) ↑ 358% (4.58; 4.03-5.19) Simvastatin 40-mg single oral dose 100 mg (oral suspension) once daily x 13 days Simvastatin Simvastatin ↑ 841% (9.41, 7.13-12.44) Simvastatin Acid ↑ 817% (9.17, 7.36-11.43) ↑ 931% (10.31, 8.40-12.67) Simvastatin Acid ↑ 634% (7.34, 5.82-9.25) 200 mg (oral suspension) once daily x 13 days Simvastatin Simvastatin ↑ 1041% (11.41, 7.99-16.29) Simvastatin Acid ↑ 851% (9.51, 8.15-11.10) ↑ 960% (10.60, 8.63-13.02) Simvastatin Acid ↑ 748% (8.48, 7.04-10.23) Midazolam 0.4-mg single intravenous dose ‡ 200 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 30% (1.3; 1.13-1.48) ↑ 362% (4.62; 4.02-5.3) 0.4-mg single intravenous dose ‡ 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 62% (1.62; 1.41-1.86) ↑ 524% (6.24; 5.43-7.16) 2-mg single oral dose ‡ 200 mg (oral suspension) once daily x 7 days ↑ 169% (2.69; 2.46-2.93) ↑ 470% (5.70; 4.82-6.74) 2-mg single oral dose ‡ 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 138% (2.38; 2.13-2.66) ↑ 397% (4.97; 4.46-5.54) Rifabutin 300 mg once daily x 17 days 200 mg (tablets) once daily × 10 days † ↑ 31% (1.31; 1.10-1.57) ↑ 72% (1.72;1.51-1.95) Phenytoin 200 mg once daily PO x 10 days 200 mg (tablets) once daily x 10 days † ↑ 16% (1.16; 0.85-1.57) ↑ 16% (1.16; 0.84-1.59) Ritonavir 100 mg once daily x 14 days 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 49% (1.49; 1.04-2.15) ↑ 80% (1.8;1.39-2.31) Atazanavir 300 mg once daily x 14 days 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 155% (2.55; 1.89-3.45) ↑ 268% (3.68; 2.89-4.70) Atazanavir/ ritonavir boosted regimen 300 mg/100 mg once daily x 14 days 400 mg (oral suspension) twice daily x 7 days ↑ 53% (1.53; 1.13-2.07) ↑ 146% (2.46; 1.93-3.13) * Ratio Estimate is the ratio of coadministered drug plus posaconazole to coadministered drug alone for C max or AUC. † The tablet refers to a non-commercial tablet formulation without polymer. ‡ The mean terminal half-life of midazolam was increased from 3 hours to 7 to 11 hours during coadministration with posaconazole. Additional clinical studies demonstrated that no clinically significant effects on zidovudine, lamivudine, indinavir, or caffeine were observed when administered with posaconazole 200 mg once daily; therefore, no dose adjustments are required for these coadministered drugs when coadministered with posaconazole 200 mg once daily. Excretion: Following administration of Noxafil oral suspension, posaconazole is predominantly eliminated in the feces (71% of the radiolabeled dose up to 120 hours) with the major component eliminated as parent drug (66% of the radiolabeled dose). Renal clearance isa minor elimination pathway, with 13% of the radiolabeled dose excreted in urine up to 120 hours (<0.2% of the radiolabeled dose is parent drug). Posaconazole delayed-release tablet is eliminated with a mean half-life (t½) ranging between 26 to 31 hours. Specific Populations No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of posaconazole were observed based on age, sex, renal impairment, and indication (prophylaxis). Race/Ethnicity: In a population pharmacokinetic analysis of posaconazole, AUC was found to be 25% higher in Chinese patients relative to patients from other races/ethnicities. This higher exposure is not expected to be clinically relevant given the expected variability in posaconazole exposure. Patients Weighing More Than 120 kg: Weight has a clinically significant effect on posaconazole clearance. Relative to 70 kg patients, the Cavg is decreased by 25% in patients greater than 120 kg. Patients administered posaconazole weighing more than 120 kg may be at higher risk for lower posaconazole plasma concentrations compared to lower weight patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.10)]. Pediatric Patients A total of 12 patients 13 to 17 years of age received 600 mg/day (200 mg three times a day) of Noxafil® oral suspension for prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections. Based on pharmacokinetic data in 10 of these pediatric patients, the mean steady-state Cav was similar between these patients and adults (≥18 years of age). In a study of 136 neutropenic pediatric patients 11 months to less than 18 years treated with Noxafil® oral suspension, the exposure target of steady-state posaconazole Cavg between 500 ng/mL and less than 2500 ng/mL was attained in approximately 50% of patients instead of the pre-specified 90% of patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Posaconazole is an azole antifungal indicated as follows: Posaconazole is indicated for the prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in patients who are at high risk of developing these infections due to being severely immunocompromised, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or those with hematologic malignancies with prolonged neutropenia from chemotherapy as follows: ( 1.2 ) o Posaconazole delayed-release tablets: adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and …

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Noxafil ® oral suspension is not substitutable with posaconazole delayed-release tablets or Noxafil ® PowderMix for delayed-release oral suspension due to the differences in the dosing of each formulation. Therefore, follow the specific dosage recommendations for each of the formulations. ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 ) Administer posaconazole delayed-release tablets with or without food. ( 2.1 ) Table 1: Recommended Dosage in Adult Patients Indication Dosage Form, Dose, and Duration of Therapy Prophylaxis of invasive …

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Calcineurin-Inhibitor Toxicity : Posaconazole increases concentrations of cyclosporine or tacrolimus; reduce dose of cyclosporine and tacrolimus and monitor concentrations frequently. ( 5.1 ) Arrhythmias and QTc Prolongation : Posaconazole has been shown to prolong the QTc interval and cause cases of TdP. Administer with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions. Do not administer with drugs known to prolong QTc interval and metabolized through CYP3A4. ( 5.2 ) Electrolyte Disturbances : Monitor and correct, especially those …

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Known hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungal agents. ( 4.1 ) Coadministration of posaconazole with the following drugs is contraindicated; posaconazole increases concentrations and toxicities of: Sirolimus ( 4.2 , 5.1 , 7.1 ) CYP3A4 substrates (pimozide, quinidine): can result in QTc interval prolongation and cases of torsades de pointes (TdP) ( 4.3 , 5.2 , 7.2 ) HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors Primarily Metabolized through CYP3A4 ( 4.4 , 7.3 ) Ergot alkaloids ( 4.5 , 7.4 ) …

Posaconazole is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

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References & Data Sources

• DailyMed — Posaconazole drug label (National Library of Medicine)
• openFDA — Posaconazole label data (U.S. Food & Drug Administration)
• RxNorm — RXCUI 1482908 (NLM Normalized Drug Names)
• NDC Directory — Posaconazole (FDA National Drug Code)

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication.

Data sources: DailyMed (NLM), openFDA, MFDS