Cannabidiol

Q: What should I know before taking Cannabidiol?

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Hepatic Injury: EPIDIOLEX can cause transaminase elevations. Concomitant use of valproate and higher doses of EPIDIOLEX increase the risk of transaminase elevations. See Full Prescribing Information for serum transaminase and bilirubin monitoring recommendations. ( 5.1 ) • Somnolence and Sedation: Monitor for somnolence and sedation and advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on EPIDIOLEX. ( 5.2 ) • Suicidal Beha

Q: Is Cannabidiol available over the counter?

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

Prescription

Nombres comerciales: Epidiolex

Forma Farmacéutica

Liquid/Solution

Vía de Administración

ORAL

Fabricante

Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

About This Medication

11 DESCRIPTION Cannabidiol is a cannabinoid designated chemically as 2-[(1R,6R)-3-Methyl-6-(1-methylethenyl)-2-cyclohexen-1-yl]-5-pentyl-1,3-benzenediol (IUPAC/CAS). Its empirical formula is C 21 H 30 O 2 and its molecular weight is 314.46. The chemical structure is: Cannabidiol, the active ingredient in EPIDIOLEX, is a cannabinoid that naturally occurs in the Cannabis sativa L . plant. Cannabidiol is a white to pale yellow crystalline solid. It is insoluble in water and is soluble in organic solvents. EPIDIOLEX (cannabidiol) oral solution is a clear, colorless to yellow liquid containing cannabidiol at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Inactive ingredients include dehydrated alcohol (7.9% w/v), sesame seed oil, strawberry flavor, and sucralose. EPIDIOLEX contains no ingredient made from a gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley, or rye). chemical structure

Principios Activos

Ingrediente	Concentración
Cannabidiol	-

Indicaciones y Uso

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE EPIDIOLEX is indicated for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome (DS), or tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in patients 1 year of age and older. EPIDIOLEX is indicated for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex in patients 1 year of age and older ( 1 )

Cómo funciona

12.1 Mechanism of Action The precise mechanisms by which EPIDIOLEX exerts its anticonvulsant effect in humans are unknown. Cannabidiol does not appear to exert its anticonvulsant effects through interaction with cannabinoid receptors.

Dosificación y Administración

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Obtain serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and total bilirubin levels in all patients prior to starting treatment. ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) • See Full Prescribing Information for titration. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) Seizures Associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome or Dravet Syndrome • The recommended starting dosage is 2.5 mg/kg by mouth twice daily (5 mg/kg/day). After one week, the dosage can be increased to a maintenance dosage of 5 mg/kg twice daily (10 mg/kg/day). ( 2.2 ) • Based on individual clinical response and tolerability, EPIDIOLEX can be increased up to a maximum recommended maintenance dosage of 10 mg/kg twice daily (20 mg/kg/day). Seizures Associated with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex • The recommended starting dosage is 2.5 mg/kg by mouth twice daily (5 mg/kg/day). Increase the dose weekly by 2.5 mg/kg twice daily (5 mg/kg/day), as tolerated, to a recommended maintenance dosage of 12.5 mg/kg twice daily (25 mg/kg/day). ( 2.3 ) Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function • Dosage adjustment is recommended for patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. ( 2.6 , 8.6 ) 2.1 Assessments Prior to Initiating EPIDIOLEX Because of the risk of hepatocellular injury, obtain serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and total bilirubin levels in all patients prior to starting treatment with EPIDIOLEX [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. 2.2 Dosing for Seizures Associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome or Dravet Syndrome • The starting dosage is 2.5 mg/kg by mouth twice daily (5 mg/kg/day). • After one week, the dosage can be increased to a maintenance dosage of 5 mg/kg twice daily (10 mg/kg/day). • Patients who are tolerating EPIDIOLEX at 5 mg/kg twice daily and require further reduction of seizures may benefit from a dosage increase up to a maximum recommended maintenance dosage of 10 mg/kg twice daily (20 mg/kg/day), in weekly increments of 2.5 mg/kg twice daily (5 mg/kg/day), as tolerated. For patients in whom a more rapid titration from 10 mg/kg/day to 20 mg/kg/day is warranted, the dosage may be increased no more frequently than every other day. Administration of the 20 mg/kg/day dosage resulted in somewhat greater reductions in seizure rates than the recommended maintenance dosage of 10 mg/kg/day, but with an increase in adverse reactions. 2.3 Dosing for Seizures Associated with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex • The starting dosage is 2.5 mg/kg by mouth twice daily (5 mg/kg/day). • Increase the dose in weekly increments of 2.5 mg/kg twice daily (5 mg/kg/day), as tolerated, to a recommended maintenance dosage of 12.5 mg/kg twice daily (25 mg/kg/day). For patients in whom a more rapid titration to 25 mg/kg/day is warranted, the dosage may be increased no more frequently than every other day. • The effectiveness of doses lower than 12.5 mg/kg twice daily has not been studied in patients with TSC. 2.4 Administration Instructions Food may affect EPIDIOLEX levels [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Consistent dosing of EPIDIOLEX with respect to meals is recommended to reduce variability in cannabidiol plasma exposure. Calibrated measuring devices (1 mL and 5 mL oral syringes) will be provided and are recommended to measure and deliver the prescribed dose accurately [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling ( 16.1 )]. A household teaspoon or tablespoon is not an adequate measuring device. Oral administration is recommended. When necessary, EPIDIOLEX can be enterally administered via silicone feeding tubes, such as nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes. The recommended volume for flushing (with room temperature drinking water) after each dose is approximately 5 times the priming volume of the tube. The flushing volume may need to be modified in patients with fluid restrictions. Do not use with tubes made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane and avoid use of silicone nasogastric tubes with short lengths and narrow diameters (e.g., less than 50 cm and less than 5 FR). Discard any unused EPIDIOLEX remaining 12 weeks after first opening the bottle [see How Supplied/ Storage and Handling ( 16.2 )]. 2.5 Discontinuation of EPIDIOLEX When discontinuing EPIDIOLEX, the dose should be decreased gradually. As with most antiepileptic drugs, abrupt discontinuation should be avoided when possible, to minimize the risk of increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. 2.6 Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dose adjustment is recommended in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. It may be necessary to have slower dose titration in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment than in patients without hepatic impairment (see Table 1) . EPIDIOLEX does not require dose adjustment in patients with mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment. Table 1: Dose Adjustments in Patients with Hepatic Impairment Hepatic Impairment Starting Dosage In Patients with LGS or DS In Patients with TSC Maintenance Dosage Range Maintenance Dosage Mild 2.5 mg/kg twice daily (5 mg/kg/day) 5 to 10 mg/kg twice daily (10 to 20 mg/kg/day) 12.5 mg/kg twice daily (25 mg/kg/day) Moderate 1.25 mg/kg twice daily (2.5 mg/kg/day) 2.5 to 5 mg/kg twice daily (5 to 10 mg/kg/day) 6.25 mg/kg twice daily (12.5 mg/kg/day) Severe 0.5 mg/kg twice daily (1 mg/kg/day) 1 to 2 mg/kg twice daily (2 to 4 mg/kg/day) 2.5 mg/kg twice daily (5 mg/kg/day)

Side Effects Overview

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following important adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling: • Hepatic Injury [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Somnolence and Sedation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] The most common adverse reactions (10% or more for EPIDIOLEX and greater than placebo) in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome are: somnolence; decreased appetite; diarrhea; transaminase elevations; fatigue, malaise, and asthenia; rash; insomnia, sleep disorder, and poor quality sleep; and infections. ( 6.1 ) The most common adverse reactions (10% or more for EPIDIOLEX and greater than placebo) in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex are: diarrhea; transaminase elevations; decreased appetite; somnolence; pyrexia; and vomiting. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-800-520-5568 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 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. In controlled and uncontrolled trials in patients with LGS and DS, 689 patients were treated with EPIDIOLEX, including 533 patients treated for more than 6 months, and 391 patients treated for more than 1 year. In controlled and uncontrolled trials in patients with TSC, 223 patients were treated with EPIDIOLEX, including 151 patients treated for more than 6 months, 88 patients treated for more than 1 year, and 15 patients treated for more than 2 years. In an expanded access program and other compassionate use programs, 271 patients with DS, LGS, or TSC were treated with EPIDIOLEX, including 237 patients treated for more than 6 months, 204 patients treated for more than 1 year, and 140 patients treated for more than 2 years. Patients with LGS or DS In placebo-controlled trials of patients with LGS or DS (includes Studies 1, 2, 3, and a Phase 2 controlled study in DS), 323 patients received EPIDIOLEX [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 , 14.2 )] . Adverse reactions are presented below; the duration of treatment in these trials was up to 14 weeks. Approximately 46% of patients were female, 83% were Caucasian, and the mean age was 14 years (range 2 to 48 years). All patients were taking other AEDs. In controlled trials in LGS or DS, the rate of discontinuation as a result of any adverse reaction was 2.7% for patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day, 11.8% for patients taking EPIDIOLEX 20 mg/kg/day, and 1.3% for patients on placebo. The most frequent cause of discontinuations was transaminase elevation. Discontinuation for transaminase elevation occurred at an incidence of 1.3% in patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day, 5.9% in patients taking EPIDIOLEX 20 mg/kg/day, and 0.4% in patients on placebo. Somnolence, sedation, and lethargy led to discontinuation in 3% of patients taking EPIDIOLEX 20 mg/kg/day compared to 0% of patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day or on placebo. The most common adverse reactions that occurred in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with LGS or DS (incidence at least 10% and greater than placebo) were somnolence; decreased appetite; diarrhea; transaminase elevations; fatigue, malaise, and asthenia; rash; insomnia, sleep disorder, and poor quality sleep; and infections. Table 3 lists the adverse reactions that were reported in at least 3% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients, and at a rate greater than those on placebo, in the placebo-controlled trials in LGS and DS. Table 3: Adverse Reactions in Patients Treated with EPIDIOLEX in Controlled Trials of LGS and DS (Studies 1, 2, and 3) Adverse Reactions EPIDIOLEX Placebo 10 mg/kg/day 20 mg/kg/day N=75 % N=238 % N=227 % Hepatic Disorders Transaminases elevated 8 16 3 Gastrointestinal Disorders Decreased appetite 16 22 5 Diarrhea 9 20 9 Weight decreased 3 5 1 Gastroenteritis 0 4 1 Abdominal pain, discomfort 3 3 1 Nervous System Disorders Somnolence 23 25 8 Fatigue, malaise, asthenia 11 12 4 Lethargy 4 8 2 Sedation 3 6 1 Irritability, agitation 9 5 2 Aggression, anger 3 5 <1 Insomnia, sleep disorder, poor quality sleep 11 5 4 Drooling, salivary hypersecretion 1 4 <1 Gait disturbance 3 2 <1 Infections Infection, all 41 40 31 Infection, other 25 21 24 Infection, viral 7 11 6 Pneumonia 8 5 1 Infection, fungal 1 3 0 Other Rash 7 13 3 Hypoxia, respiratory failure 3 3 1 Adverse reactions were similar across LGS and DS in pediatric and adult patients. Patients with TSC In a placebo-controlled trial of patients with TSC (Study 4), 148 patients received EPIDIOLEX [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Adverse reactions are presented below; the duration of treatment in this trial was up to 16 weeks. Approximately 42% of patients were female, 90% were Caucasian, and the mean age was 14 years (range 1 to 57 years). All patients but one (25 mg/kg/day group) were taking other AEDs. In the controlled trial in TSC, the rate of discontinuation as a result of any adverse reaction was 11% for patients taking EPIDIOLEX 25 mg/kg/day and 3% for patients on placebo. The most frequent cause of discontinuation was rash (5%). The most common adverse reactions that occurred in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with TSC (incidence at least 10% at the recommended dosage and greater than placebo) were diarrhea; transaminase elevations; decreased appetite; somnolence; pyrexia; and vomiting. Table 4 lists the adverse reactions that were reported in at least 3% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients, and at a rate greater than those on placebo, in the placebo-controlled trial in TSC. Table 4: Adverse Reactions in Patients Treated with EPIDIOLEX in Controlled Trial of TSC (Study 4) Adverse Reactions EPIDIOLEX Placebo 25 mg/kg/day N = 75 % N = 76 % Hematological changes Anemia 7 1 Platelet count decreased 5 1 Eosinophil count increased 5 0 Hepatic Disorders Transaminases elevated 25 0 Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea 31 25 Decreased appetite 20 12 Vomiting 17 9 Nausea 9 3 Gastroenteritis 8 7 Weight decreased 7 0 Nervous System Disorders Somnolence 13 9 Gait disturbance 9 5 Fatigue, malaise, asthenia 5 1 Infections Ear infection 8 3 Urinary tract infection 5 0 Pneumonia 4 1 Other Pyrexia 19 8 Rash 8 4 Rhinorrhea 4 0 Adverse reactions were similar in pediatric and adult patients with TSC. Additional Adverse Reactions in Patients with LGS, DS, or TSC Decreased Weight EPIDIOLEX can cause weight loss. In the controlled trials of patients with LGS or DS (10 and 20 mg/kg/day), based on measured weights, 16% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients had a decrease in weight of at least 5% from their baseline weight, compared to 8% of patients on placebo. The decrease in weight appeared to be dose-related, with 18% of patients on EPIDIOLEX 20 mg/kg/day experiencing a decrease in weight at least 5%, compared to 9% in patients on EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day. In the controlled trial of patients with TSC (25 mg/kg/day), 31% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients had a decrease in weight of at least 5% from their baseline weight, compared to 8% of patients on placebo. In some cases, the decreased weight was reported as an adverse event (see Tables 3 and 4). Hematologic Abnormalities EPIDIOLEX can cause decreases in hemoglobin and hematocrit. In controlled trials of patients with LGS or DS, the mean decrease in hemoglobin from baseline to end of treatment was -0.42 g/dL in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients receiving 10 or 20 mg/kg/day and -0.03 g/dL in patients on placebo. A corresponding decrease in hematocrit was also observed, with a mean change of -1.5% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients, and -0.4% in patients on placebo. In the trial of patients with TSC, the mean decrease in hemoglobin from baseline to end of treatment was -0.37 g/dL in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients receiving 25 mg/kg/day and 0.07 g/dL in patients on placebo. A corresponding decrease in hematocrit was also observed, with a mean change of -1.2% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients, and -0.2% in patients on placebo. There was no effect on red blood cell indices. Thirty percent (30%) of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with LGS and DS and 38% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with TSC developed a new laboratory-defined anemia during the course of the study (defined as a normal hemoglobin concentration at baseline, with a reported value less than the lower limit of normal at a subsequent time point), versus 13% of patients with LGS and DS on placebo and 15% of patients with TSC on placebo. Increases in Creatinine EPIDIOLEX can cause elevations in serum creatinine. The mechanism has not yet been determined. In controlled studies in healthy adults and in patients with LGS, DS, and TSC, an increase in serum creatinine of approximately 10% was observed within 2 weeks of starting EPIDIOLEX. The increase was reversible in healthy adults. Reversibility was not assessed in studies in LGS, DS, or TSC. Increases in Pneumonia with Concomitant Clobazam Pneumonia has been observed in controlled trials in patients with LGS and DS more frequently with clobazam (7 of 41 [17%] in patients receiving 10 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX, 13 of 125 [10%] in patients receiving 20 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX, and 1 of 123 [1%] receiving placebo) than without concomitant clobazam (0% in patients receiving 10 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX, 4 of 113 [4%] in patients receiving 20 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX, and 1 of 104 [1%] receiving placebo). In the controlled trial in patients with TSC, pneumonia was observed more frequently with concomitant clobazam (3 of 18 [17%] in patients receiving 25 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX and 0 of 25 [0%] receiving placebo) than without clobazam (0 of 57 [0%] in patients receiving 25 mg/kg/day EPIDIOLEX and 1 of 51 [2%] receiving placebo).

Advertencias y Precauciones

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Hepatic Injury: EPIDIOLEX can cause transaminase elevations. Concomitant use of valproate and higher doses of EPIDIOLEX increase the risk of transaminase elevations. See Full Prescribing Information for serum transaminase and bilirubin monitoring recommendations. ( 5.1 ) • Somnolence and Sedation: Monitor for somnolence and sedation and advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on EPIDIOLEX. ( 5.2 ) • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: Monitor patients for suicidal behavior and thoughts. ( 5.3 ) • Hypersensitivity Reactions: Advise patients to seek immediate medical care. Discontinue and do not restart EPIDIOLEX if hypersensitivity occurs. ( 5.4 ) • Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs: EPIDIOLEX should be gradually withdrawn to minimize the risk of increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus. ( 5.5 ) 5.1 Hepatic Injury EPIDIOLEX can cause dose-related elevations of liver transaminases (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] and/or aspartate aminotransferase [AST]). In controlled studies for LGS and DS (10 and 20 mg/kg/day dosages) and TSC (25 mg/kg/day), the incidence of ALT elevations above 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) was 13% (10 and 20 mg/kg/day dosages) and 12% (25 mg/kg/day dosage) in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients compared with 1% in patients on placebo. Less than 1% of EPIDIOLEX-treated patients had ALT or AST levels greater than 20 times the ULN. There were cases of transaminase elevations associated with hospitalization in patients taking EPIDIOLEX. In clinical trials, serum transaminase elevations typically occurred in the first two months of treatment initiation; however, there were some cases observed up to 18 months after initiation of treatment, particularly in patients taking concomitant valproate. Resolution of transaminase elevations occurred with discontinuation of EPIDIOLEX or reduction of EPIDIOLEX and/or concomitant valproate in about two-thirds of the cases. In about one-third of the cases, transaminase elevations resolved during continued treatment with EPIDIOLEX, without dose reduction. In the postmarketing setting, cases of cholestatic or mixed patterns of liver injury (i.e., based on calculated ratio of [ALT/ULN]/[ALP/ULN] less than 2 and between 2-5, respectively) were reported in patients treated with EPIDIOLEX. Risk Factors for Transaminase Elevation Concomitant Valproate and Clobazam The majority of ALT elevations in the controlled studies occurred in patients taking concomitant valproate [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . Concomitant use of clobazam also increased the incidence of transaminase elevations, although to a lesser extent than valproate [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . In EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with LGS or DS (10 and 20 mg/kg/day dosages), the incidence of ALT elevations greater than 3 times the ULN was 30% in patients taking both concomitant valproate and clobazam, 21% in patients taking concomitant valproate (without clobazam), 4% in patients taking concomitant clobazam (without valproate), and 3% in patients taking neither drug. In EPIDIOLEX-treated patients with TSC (25 mg/kg/day), the incidence of ALT elevations greater than 3 times the ULN was 20% in patients taking both concomitant valproate and clobazam, 25% in patients taking concomitant valproate (without clobazam), 0% in patients taking concomitant clobazam (without valproate), and 6% in patients taking neither drug. Consider discontinuation or dose adjustment of valproate or clobazam if liver enzyme elevations occur. In the postmarketing setting, cases of elevated ammonia levels were reported in some EPIDIOLEX-treated patients who also had transaminase elevations; where data were available, most cases reported concomitant use of valproate, clobazam, or both. Consider discontinuation or dose adjustment of valproate or clobazam if ammonia level elevations occur. Dose Transaminase elevations are generally dose-related. In patients with DS or LGS (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) or TSC (25 mg/kg/day), ALT elevations greater than 3 times the ULN were reported in 17% and 12% of patients taking EPIDIOLEX 20 or 25 mg/kg/day, respectively, compared with 1% in patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day. The risk of ALT elevations was higher (25%) in patients with TSC receiving a dosage above the recommended maintenance dosage of 25 mg/kg/day in Study 4. Baseline Transaminase Elevations Patients with baseline transaminase levels above the ULN had higher rates of transaminase elevations when taking EPIDIOLEX. In the DS and LGS controlled trials (Studies 1, 2, and 3) in patients taking EPIDIOLEX 20 mg/kg/day, the frequency of treatment-emergent ALT elevations greater than 3 times the ULN was 30% when ALT was above the ULN at baseline, compared to 12% when ALT was within the normal range at baseline. No patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 mg/kg/day experienced ALT elevations greater than 3 times the ULN when ALT was above the ULN at baseline, compared with 2% of patients in whom ALT was within the normal range at baseline. In the TSC controlled trial (Study 4) in patients taking EPIDIOLEX 25 mg/kg/day, the frequency of treatment-emergent ALT elevations greater than 3 and 5 times the ULN were both 11% when ALT was above the ULN at baseline, compared to 12% and 6%, respectively, when ALT was within the normal range at baseline. Monitoring In general, transaminase elevations of greater than 3 times the ULN in the presence of elevated bilirubin without an alternative explanation are an important predictor of severe liver injury. Early identification of elevated liver enzymes may decrease the risk of a serious outcome. Patients with elevated baseline transaminase levels above 3 times the ULN, accompanied by elevations in bilirubin above 2 times the ULN, should be evaluated prior to initiation of EPIDIOLEX treatment. Prior to starting treatment with EPIDIOLEX, obtain serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and total bilirubin levels. Serum transaminases and total bilirubin levels should be obtained at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after initiation of treatment with EPIDIOLEX, and periodically thereafter or as clinically indicated. Serum transaminases and total bilirubin levels should also be obtained within 1 month following changes in EPIDIOLEX dosage and addition of or changes in medications that are known to impact the liver. Consider more frequent monitoring of serum transaminases and bilirubin in patients who are taking valproate or who have elevated liver enzymes at baseline. If a patient develops clinical signs or symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction (e.g., unexplained nausea, vomiting, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, or jaundice and/or dark urine), promptly measure serum transaminases and total bilirubin and interrupt or discontinue treatment with EPIDIOLEX, as appropriate. Discontinue EPIDIOLEX in any patients with elevations of transaminase levels greater than 3 times the ULN and bilirubin levels greater than 2 times the ULN. Patients with sustained transaminase elevations of greater than 5 times the ULN should also have treatment discontinued. Patients with prolonged elevations of serum transaminases should be evaluated for other possible causes. Consider dosage adjustment of any coadministered medication that is known to affect the liver (e.g., valproate and clobazam). 5.2 Somnolence and Sedation EPIDIOLEX can cause somnolence and sedation. In controlled studies for LGS and DS (10 and 20 mg/kg/day dosages), the incidence of somnolence and sedation (including lethargy) was 32% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients (27% and 34% of patients taking EPIDIOLEX 10 or 20 mg/kg/day, respectively), compared with 11% in patients on placebo and was generally dose-related. The rate was higher in patients on concomitant clobazam (46% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients taking clobazam compared with 16% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients not on clobazam). In the controlled study for TSC, the incidence of somnolence and sedation (including lethargy) was 19% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients (25 mg/kg/day), compared with 17% in patients on placebo. The rate was higher in patients on concomitant clobazam (33% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients taking clobazam compared with 14% in EPIDIOLEX-treated patients not on clobazam). In general, these effects were more common early in treatment and may diminish with continued treatment. Other CNS depressants, including alcohol, could potentiate the somnolence and sedation effect of EPIDIOLEX. Prescribers should monitor patients for somnolence and sedation and should advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on EPIDIOLEX to gauge whether it adversely affects their ability to drive or operate machinery. 5.3 Suicidal Behavior and Ideation Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including EPIDIOLEX, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Patients treated with an AED for any indication should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials (mono- and adjunctive therapy) of 11 different AEDs showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI:1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. In these trials, which had a median treatment duration of 12 weeks, the estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in drug-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too small to allow any conclusion about drug effect on suicide. The increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with AEDs was observed as early as 1 week after starting drug treatment with AEDs and persisted for the duration of treatment assessed. Because most trials included in the analysis did not extend beyond 24 weeks, the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior beyond 24 weeks could not be assessed. The risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior was generally consistent among drugs in the data analyzed. The finding of increased risk with AEDs of varying mechanisms of action and across a range of indications suggests that the risk applies to all AEDs used for any indication. The risk did not vary substantially by age (5-100 years) in the clinical trials analyzed. Table 2 shows absolute and relative risk by indication for all evaluated AEDs. Table 2: Risk of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors by Indication for Antiepileptic Drugs in the Pooled Analysis Indication Placebo Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Drug Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Relative Risk: Incidence of Events in Drug Patients/Incidence in Placebo Patients Risk Difference: Additional Drug Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Epilepsy 1.0 3.4 3.5 2.4 Psychiatric 5.7 8.5 1.5 2.9 Other 1.0 1.8 1.9 0.9 Total 2.4 4.3 1.8 1.9 The relative risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior was higher in clinical trials in patients with epilepsy than in clinical trials in patients with psychiatric or other conditions, but the absolute risk differences were similar for the epilepsy and psychiatric indications. Anyone considering prescribing EPIDIOLEX or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated. 5.4 Hypersensitivity Reactions EPIDIOLEX can cause hypersensitivity reactions. Some subjects in the EPIDIOLEX clinical trials had pruritus, erythema, and angioedema requiring treatment, including corticosteroids and antihistamines. Patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to any ingredients of EPIDIOLEX were excluded from the clinical trials. If a patient develops hypersensitivity reactions after treatment with EPIDIOLEX, the drug should be discontinued. EPIDIOLEX is contraindicated in patients with a prior hypersensitivity reaction to cannabidiol or any of the ingredients in the product, which includes sesame seed oil [see Description ( 11 )]. 5.5 Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) As with most antiepileptic drugs, EPIDIOLEX should generally be withdrawn gradually because of the risk of increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14 )]. But if withdrawal is needed because of a serious adverse event, rapid discontinuation can be considered.

Contraindicaciones

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS EPIDIOLEX is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cannabidiol or any of the ingredients in the product [see Description ( 11 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Hypersensitivity to cannabidiol or any of the ingredients in EPIDIOLEX ( 4 )

Farmacocinética

12.3 Pharmacokinetics Cannabidiol demonstrated an increase in exposure that was less than dose-proportional over the range of 5 to 25 mg/kg/day in patients. Absorption Cannabidiol has a time to maximum plasma concentration (T max ) of 2.5 to 5 hours at steady state (C ss ). Effect of Food Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (750 or 1500 mg) with a high-fat/high-calorie meal increased C max by 5‑fold, AUC by 4‑fold, and reduced the total variability, compared with the fasted state in healthy subjects [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] . Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX with a low-fat/low-calorie meal increased C max and AUC by 4‑fold and 3‑fold, respectively. Furthermore, coadministration of EPIDIOLEX with bovine milk increased exposure by approximately 3‑fold for C max and 2.5‑fold for AUC. Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX with alcohol also caused increased exposure to cannabidiol, with 93% increased C max and 63% greater AUC. Distribution The apparent volume of distribution in healthy subjects was 20963 L to 42849 L. Protein binding of the cannabidiol and its metabolites was > 94% in vitro. Elimination The half-life of cannabidiol in plasma was 56 to 61 hours after twice-daily dosing for 7 days in healthy subjects. The plasma clearance of cannabidiol following a single EPIDIOLEX 1500 mg dose (approximately equal to the 20 mg/kg/day dosage) is 1111 L/h. Metabolism Cannabidiol is metabolized in the liver and the gut (primarily in the liver) by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 enzymes, and UGT1A7, UGT1A9, and UGT2B7 isoforms. After repeat dosing, the active metabolite of cannabidiol, 7‑OH-CBD, has a 38% lower AUC than the parent drug. The 7‑OH-CBD metabolite is converted to 7‑COOH‑CBD, which has an approximately 40‑fold higher AUC than the parent drug. Based on preclinical models of seizure, the 7‑OH‑CBD metabolite is active; however, the 7‑COOH‑CBD metabolite is not active. Excretion EPIDIOLEX is excreted in feces, with minor renal clearance. Specific Populations Patients with Hepatic Impairment No effects on the exposures of cannabidiol or metabolite exposures were observed following administration of a single dose of EPIDIOLEX 200 mg in patients with mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment. Patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment had an approximately 2.5 to 5.2-fold higher AUC, compared with healthy subjects with normal hepatic function [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.6 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 )]. Drug Interaction Studies Clinical Studies and Model-Informed Approaches Drug Interaction Studies with AEDs Clobazam and Valproate The interaction potential with other AEDs (clobazam and valproate) was evaluated in dedicated clinical studies following coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (750 mg twice daily in healthy subjects and 20 mg/kg/day in patients). Coadministration with clobazam in healthy subjects increased the cannabidiol active metabolite 7‑OH‑CBD mean C max by 73% and AUC by 47%; and increased the clobazam active metabolite, N‑desmethylclobazam, a substrate of CYP2C19, C max and AUC by approximately 3‑fold, with no effect on clobazam levels [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )]. When EPIDIOLEX was coadministered with valproate in healthy subjects, there was no effect on the systemic exposure to valproate. In a separate study in epilepsy patients investigating the effect of EPIDIOLEX on valproate exposure, there were decreases in both the plasma C max and AUC of valproate, which were not clinically relevant (approximately 17% and 21%, respectively), and a decrease in exposure of the putative hepatotoxic metabolite of valproate, 2‑propyl‑4‑pentanoic acid (approximately 28% and 33%, respectively). In healthy subjects, coadministration with valproate resulted in no clinically relevant changes in exposure to cannabidiol or its major metabolites (cannabidiol C max decreased by 26%; 6‑OH‑CBD AUC increased by 27%; 7‑OH‑CBD AUC increased by 22%; 7‑COOH‑CBD C max and AUC increased by 25% and 32%, respectively). Stiripentol When EPIDIOLEX was coadministered with stiripentol in healthy subjects, C max and AUC of stiripentol increased 28% and 55%, respectively. In patients with epilepsy, C max and AUC of stiripentol increased 17% and 30%, respectively [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . Everolimus Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (12.5 mg/kg twice daily) with the P-gp and CYP3A4 substrate everolimus (5 mg) in healthy subjects led to an approximately 2.5-fold increase in everolimus mean C max and AUC [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . Effect of Other Drugs on EPIDIOLEX CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 Inhibitors Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 had the following effects on exposure to cannabidiol and its metabolites. Itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased exposure by < 10% for cannabidiol and < 20% for 7-OH-CBD and 7-COOH-CBD for both AUC and C max . Although the effects of a strong CYP2C19 inhibitor fluconazole were slightly more marked, they are still considered not to be clinically meaningful (cannabidiol increased by 22% and 24% for AUC and C max , respectively; 7‑OH‑CBD decreased by 28% and 41% for AUC and C max ; 7‑COOH‑CBD decreased by 33% and 48% for AUC and C max ). CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 Inducers Coadministration with rifampin, a strong CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 inducer, caused a decrease in cannabidiol exposure of 32% and 34% for AUC and C max [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . There were larger changes in exposure to the active metabolite (7-OH-CBD decreased by 63% and 67% for AUC and C max , 7‑COOH‑CBD decreased by 48% for AUC, whereas there was no change in C max ). Effect of EPIDIOLEX on Other Drugs CYP1A2 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (750 mg twice daily) with a single dose of caffeine (200 mg), a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate, showed increased caffeine exposure by 15% for C max and 95% for AUC compared to caffeine administered alone [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . CYP2B6 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (7.5 mg/kg twice daily) with a single dose of bupropion (150 mg), a CYP2B6 substrate, decreased bupropion exposure by 19% for C max and 20% for AUC compared to bupropion administered alone. The C max and AUC of hydroxybupropion, an active metabolite formed by CYP2B6, was not altered. The effect of EPIDIOLEX doses above 7.5 mg/kg twice daily on bupropion and hydroxybupropion is unknown [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . CYP2C9 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (7.5 mg/kg twice daily) with a single dose of tolbutamide (500 mg), a moderately sensitive CYP2C9 substrate, did not result in changes in plasma exposures of tolbutamide compared to tolbutamide administered alone. No clinically meaningful changes in plasma exposures of tolbutamide were predicted when tolbutamide is coadministered with steady-state dosing of EPIDIOLEX (12.5 mg/kg twice daily). CYP3A4 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (750 mg twice daily) with a single dose of midazolam (2.5 mg), a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate, did not result in changes in plasma concentrations of midazolam compared to midazolam administered alone. UGT1A9 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (7.5 mg/kg twice daily) with a single dose of mycophenolate mofetil (1500 mg), a UGT1A9 substrate, increased mycophenolic acid exposure by 16% for C max and 35% for AUC when compared to mycophenolate mofetil administered alone. An increase in mycophenolic acid exposure by 9% for C max and 58% for AUC is predicted when mycophenolate mofetil (1500 mg) is coadministered with steady-state dosing of EPIDIOLEX (12.5 mg/kg twice daily) [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . UGT2B7 Substrates Coadministration of EPIDIOLEX (7.5 mg/kg twice daily) with a single dose of zidovudine (300 mg), a UGT2B7 substrate, increased zidovudine exposure by 7% for C max and 19% for AUC compared to zidovudine administered alone, which is not expected to be clinically significant. No clinically meaningful changes in plasma exposures of zidovudine are predicted when zidovudine is coadministered with steady-state dosing of EPIDIOLEX (12.5 mg/kg twice daily). In Vitro Assessment of Drug Interactions Drug Metabolizing Enzymes [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 )] Cannabidiol has the potential to inhibit CYP2B6 and CYP2C8, and to induce CYP2B6 at clinically relevant concentrations. Cannabidiol does not inhibit the uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A4, UGT1A6, or UGT2B17 isoforms. Transporters Cannabidiol and the cannabidiol metabolite, 7-OH-CBD, are not anticipated to interact with BCRP, BSEP, MDR1/P‑gp, OAT1, OAT3, OCT1, OCT2, MATE1, MATE2‑K, OATP1B1, or OATP1B3. However, due to limitations of the in vitro testing procedure, inhibition of P‑gp mediated efflux by cannabidiol in the intestine could not be excluded. In vivo data show that CBD can affect P‑gp efflux activity in the intestine [see Clinical Studies and Model-Informed Approaches ] . The cannabidiol metabolite, 7‑COOH‑CBD, is not a substrate of BCRP, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, or OCT1. However, 7‑COOH‑CBD is a substrate for P‑gp. 7‑COOH‑CBD is an inhibitor of transport mediated via BCRP and BSEP at clinically relevant concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE EPIDIOLEX is indicated for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome (DS), or tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in patients 1 year of age and older. EPIDIOLEX is indicated for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex in patients 1 year of age and older ( 1 )

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Obtain serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and total bilirubin levels in all patients prior to starting treatment. ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) • See Full Prescribing Information for titration. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) Seizures Associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome or Dravet Syndrome • The recommended starting dosage is 2.5 mg/kg by mouth twice daily (5 mg/kg/day). After one week, the dosage can be increased to a maintenance dosage of 5 mg/kg twice daily (10 mg/kg/day). …

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Hepatic Injury: EPIDIOLEX can cause transaminase elevations. Concomitant use of valproate and higher doses of EPIDIOLEX increase the risk of transaminase elevations. See Full Prescribing Information for serum transaminase and bilirubin monitoring recommendations. ( 5.1 ) • Somnolence and Sedation: Monitor for somnolence and sedation and advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on EPIDIOLEX. ( 5.2 ) • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: Monitor patients for suicidal behavior …

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS EPIDIOLEX is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cannabidiol or any of the ingredients in the product [see Description ( 11 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Hypersensitivity to cannabidiol or any of the ingredients in EPIDIOLEX ( 4 )

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

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References & Data Sources

• DailyMed — Cannabidiol drug label (National Library of Medicine)
• openFDA — Cannabidiol label data (U.S. Food & Drug Administration)
• RxNorm — RXCUI 2058900 (NLM Normalized Drug Names)
• NDC Directory — Cannabidiol (FDA National Drug Code)

Aviso Médico

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Siempre consulte a su médico u otro proveedor de salud calificado ante cualquier pregunta que pueda tener sobre una condición médica o medicamento.

Fuentes de datos: DailyMed (NLM), openFDA, MFDS