Antihep

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Antihep uses


1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Prevention of Hepatitis B recurrence following Liver Transplantation

Antihep ®, Antihep Intravenous (Human), is indicated for the prevention of hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation, in HbsAg-positive liver transplant patients.

Antihep should be administered intravenously for this indication.

1.2 Postexposure Prophylaxis

Antihep is indicated for the treatment of acute exposure to blood containing HbsAg, perinatal exposure of infants born to HbsAg-positive mothers, sexual exposure to HbsAgpositive

persons and household exposure to persons with acute HBV infection in the following settings:

Following either parenteral exposure (needlestick, bite, sharps), direct mucous membrane contact (accidental splash), or oral ingestion (pipetting accident), involving HbsAg-positive materials such as blood, plasma or serum 1,2.

Perinatal Exposure of Infants Born to HbsAg-positive Mothers

Infants born to mothers positive for HbsAg with or without HbeAg 1.

Sexual Exposure to HbsAg-positive Persons

Sexual partners of HbsAg-positive persons 1,2.

Household Exposure to Persons with Acute HBV Infection

Infants less than 12 months old whose mother or primary caregiver is positive for HbsAg. Other household contacts with an identifiable blood exposure to the index patient.

Antihep is indicated for intramuscular use only for these post-exposure prophylaxis indications.

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2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration; if these are seen, vials should not be used. During preparation, do not shake vials; avoid foaming.

Any vial of Antihep that has been entered should be used promptly. Do not reuse or save for future use. This product contains no preservative; therefore, partially used vials should be discarded immediately.

Prevention of Hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation

Antihep is administered intravenously at doses of 20,000 IU (calculated from the measured potency stamped on the vial label) according to the following regimen to attain serum anti-HBs > 500 IU/L:

Anhepatic Phase Week 1 Post-Operative Weeks 2-12 Post-Operative Month 4 onwards
First dose Daily from Day 1-7 Every two weeks from Day 14 Monthly

Regularly monitor serum anti-HBs to allow for treatment adjustments

Postexposure Prophylaxis ( 2.2)

Antihep must be administered intramuscularly only as directed below:

Acute Exposure to Blood Containing HBsAg 0.06 mL/kg Administer as soon as possible after exposure and within 24 hours if possible
Perinatal Exposure of Infants Born to HBsAg-positive Mothers 0.5mL Administer after physiologic stabilization of the infant and preferably within 12 hours of birth.
Sexual Exposure to HBsAg-positive Persons 0.06 mL/kg Administer Antihep within 14 days of the last sexual contact or if sexual contact with the infected person will continue
Household Exposure to Persons with Acute HBV Infection 0.5mL Infants < 12 months: Administer Antihep + Hepatitis B vaccine if primary caregiver has acute HBV infection.

2.1 Prevention of Hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation

For the prevention of hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation in HBsAg positive liver transplant patients, Antihep is administered intravenously according to a set dosing regimen designed to attain serum levels of antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) greater than 500 IU/L 3.

Based upon the Antihep clinical trial, patients should receive 20,000 IU/dose [ see Clinical Trials in Liver Transplant Patients (14.1) ]. The volume of each 20,000 IU dose should be calculated from the measured potency of the particular lot of Antihep as stamped on the vial label.

The first dose should be administered concurrently with the grafting of the transplanted liver (the anhepatic phase) with subsequent dosing as recommended in Table 1.


Anhepatic Phase


Week 1 Post-Operative


Weeks 2-12

Post-Operative


Month 4 onwards

First dose Daily from Day 1-7 Every two weeks from Day 14 Monthly

* Each dose should contain 20,000 IU calculated from the measured potency as stamped on the vial label [ see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3) ].

Antihep dose adjustments may be required in patients who fail to reach anti-HBs levels of 500 IU/L within the first week post-liver transplantation 4. Patients who have surgical bleeding or abdominal fluid drainage (> 500 mL) or patients who undergo plasmapheresis are particularly susceptible to extensive loss of circulated anti-HBs. In these cases, the dosing regimen should be increased to a half-dose (10,000 IU calculated from the measured potency as stamped on the vial label) intravenously every 6 hours until the target anti-HBs is reached.

Antihep (HBIG) products are most effective in patients with no or low levels of HBV replication at the time of transplantation 5.

Regular monitoring of serum HBsAg and levels of anti-HBs antibody should be performed pre-infusion to track treatment response and allow for treatment adjustment.

Antihep should be prepared for intravenous administration under aseptic conditions. Antihep should be administered through a separate intravenous line using an intravenous administration set via infusion pump.

The rate of administration should be set at 2 mL per minute.

The rate of infusion should be decreased to 1 mL per minute or slower if the patient develops discomfort, infusion-related adverse events or there is concern about the speed of infusion.

2.2 Postexposure Prophlyaxis

For postexposure prophylaxis indications, Antihep must be administered intramuscularly only as directed below.

It is important to use a separate vial, sterile syringe, and needle for each individual patient, to prevent transmission of infectious agents from one person to another.

Antihep may be administered at the same time (but at a different site), or up to one month preceding hepatitis B vaccination without impairing the active immune response to Hepatitis B Vaccine 1,2.

Acute Exposure to Blood Containing HBsAg

Table 2 summarizes prophylaxis for percutaneous (needlestick, bite, sharps), ocular, or mucous membrane exposure to blood according to the source of exposure and vaccination status of the exposed person. For greatest effectiveness, passive prophylaxis with Antihep should be given as soon as possible after exposure, as its value after seven days following exposure is unclear 1,2. An injection of 0.06 mL/kg of body weight should be administered intramuscularly as soon as possible after exposure, and within 24 hours if possible. Consult the Hepatitis B Vaccine package insert for dosage information regarding the vaccine.

For persons who refuse Hepatitis B Vaccine or are known non-responders to vaccine, a second dose of Antihep should be given one month after the first dose 2.

Source Exposed Person
Unvaccinated Vaccinated
HBsAg-positive 1. Antihep Intravenous (Human) (HBIGIV) x 1 immediately Antihep Intravenous (Human) dose of 0.06 mL/kg IM

2. Initiate HB vaccine series See manufacturers’ recommendation for appropriate dose.

1. Test exposed person for anti-HBs

2. If inadequate antibody Less than 10 mIU/mL anti-HBs by radioimmunoassay, negative by enzyme immunoassay., Antihep Intravenous (Human) x 1 immediately plus either HB vaccine booster dose, or a second dose of HBIGIV , 1 month later Two doses of Antihep Intravenous (Human) is preferred if no response after at least four doses of vaccine.

Known Source – High Risk for HBsAg-positive 1. Initiate HB vaccine series

2. Test source of HBsAg. If positive, Antihep Intravenous (Human) (HBIGIV) x 1

1. Test source for HBsAg only if exposed is vaccine nonresponder; if source is HBsAg-positive, give Antihep Intravenous (Human) x 1 immediately plus either HB vaccine booster dose, or a second dose of HBIGIV , 1 month later
Known Source – Low Risk for HBsAg-positive Initiate HB vaccine series Nothing required
Unknown Source Initiate HB vaccine series Nothing required

Prophylaxis of Infants Born to Mothers who are Positive for HBsAg with or without HBeAg

Table 3 contains the recommended schedule of Hepatitis B prophylaxis for infants born to mothers that are either known to be positive for HBsAg or have not been screened. Infants born to mothers known to be HBsAg-positive should receive 0.5 mL Antihep after physiologic stabilization of the infant and preferably within 12 hours of birth. The Hepatitis B Vaccine series should be initiated simultaneously, if not contraindicated, with the first dose of the vaccine given concurrently with the Antihep, but at a different site. Subsequent doses of the vaccine should be administered in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer. Women admitted for delivery, who were not screened for HBsAg during the prenatal period, should be tested. While test results are pending, the newborn infant should receive Hepatitis B Vaccine within 12 hours of birth. If the mother is later found to be HBsAg-positive, the infant should receive 0.5 mL Antihep as soon as possible and within seven days of birth; however, the efficacy of Antihep administered after 48 hours of age is not known 6. Testing for HBsAg and anti-HBs is recommended at 12-15 months of age. If HBsAg is not detectable and anti-HBs is present, the child has been protected 1.

Age of Infant
Administer Infant born to mother known to be HBsAg-positive Infant born to mother not screened for HBsAg
First Vaccination See manufacturers’ recommendations for appropriate dose.

Antihep Intravenous (Human) 0.5 mL administered IM at a site different from that used for the vaccine.

Birth (within 12 hours)

Birth (within 12 hours)

Birth (within 12 hours)

If mother is found to be HBsAg-positive, administer dose to infant as soon as possible, not later than 1 week after birth

Second Vaccination 1 month 1-2 months
Third Vaccination 6 months See ACIP recommendation¹ 6 months

Sexual Exposure to HBsAg-positive Persons

All susceptible persons whose sexual partners have acute hepatitis B infection should receive a single dose of Antihep (0.06 mL/kg) and should begin the Hepatitis B Vaccine series, if not contraindicated, within 14 days of the last sexual contact or if sexual contact with the infected person will continue. Administering the vaccine with Antihep may improve the efficacy of post exposure treatment. The vaccine has the added advantage of conferring long-lasting protection 1,2.

Household Exposure to Persons with Acute HBV Infection

Prophylaxis of an infant less than 12 months of age with 0.5 mL Antihep and Hepatitis B Vaccine is indicated if the mother or primary caregiver has acute HBV infection. Prophylaxis of other household contacts of persons with acute HBV infection is not indicated unless they had an identifiable blood exposure to the index patient, such as by sharing toothbrushes or razors. Such exposures should be treated like sexual exposures. If the index patient becomes an HBV carrier, all household contacts should receive Hepatitis B Vaccine 1,2.

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3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

Antihep, Antihep Intravenous (Human), is a sterile solution of purified gamma globulin (5% or 50 mg/mL) containing anti-HBs. Each vial contains greater than 312 IU/mL of anti-HBs and is supplied in a carton containing a 1.0 mL single use vial or a carton containing a 5.0 mL single use vial. The measured potency of each lot is stamped on the vial label.

To ensure that the label claim of >312 IU/mL is maintained over the product shelf life, a higher potency of 550 IU/mL is targeted at the time of manufacture. As with other specific immune globulin products, this higher target potency is a manufacturing requirement to account for variability in the potency assay and changes in potency over time. The potency assay has a relative standard deviation (RSD) of approximately 10%. Based on statistical assessment of manufactured lots with a target potency of 550 IU/mL, the actual potency test result may vary from approximately 400 to 700 IU/mL (3x RSD). The measured potency is provided on the container label. Due to the inherent variability of the potency assay, dosing for the prevention of hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation should be calculated from the measured potency of the particular lot of Antihep as stamped on the vial label [ see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ].

1.0 mL sterile solution; single use vial (> 312 IU/mL) in a carton. ( 3)

5.0 mL sterile solution; single use vial (> 312 IU/mL) in a carton. ( 3)

The measured potency of each lot is stamped on the vial label

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

Individuals known to have anaphylactic or severe systematic reactions associated with the parenteral administration of human globulin preparations should not receive Antihep, Antihep Intravenous (Human), or any other human immune globulin. Antihep contains less than 40 micrograms/mL of IgA. Individuals who are deficient in IgA may have the potential to develop IgA antibodies and have an anaphylactoid reaction. The physician must weigh the potential benefit of treatment with Antihep against the potential for hypersensitivity reactions.

For postexposure prophylaxis indications, Antihep must be administered intramuscularly only. In patients who have severe thrombocytopenia or any coagulation disorder that would contraindicate intramuscular injections, Antihep should be given only if the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks.

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5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 General

Antihep is made from human plasma. Products made from human plasma may contain infectious agents, such as viruses and theoretically, the Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease agent. The risk that such products can transmit an infectious agent has been reduced by screening plasma donors for prior exposure to certain viruses, by testing for the presence of certain current virus infections, and by inactivating and/or removing certain viruses. The Antihep manufacturing process includes a solvent/detergent treatment step (using tri-n-butyl phosphate and Triton X-100) that is effective in inactivating known enveloped viruses such as HBV, HCV, and HIV. Antihep is filtered using a Planova 20N Virus Filter that is effective in reducing the levels of some enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. These two processes are designed to increase product safety. Despite these measures, such products can still potentially transmit disease. There is also the possibility that unknown infectious agents may be present in such products. ALL infections thought by a physician to have been transmitted by this product should be reported by the physician or other healthcare provider to Cangene Corporation at 1-800-768-2304. The physician should discuss the risks and benefits of this product with the patient.

5.2 Anaphylactic Precautions

Although allergic reactions have not been reported following Antihep administration [ see Adverse Reactions ], the product should be administered only in a setting where appropriate equipment and personnel trained in the management of acute anaphylaxis are available. If hypotension or anaphylaxis occurs, the administration of Antihep should be discontinued immediately and supportive care given as needed.

5.3 Interference with Blood Glucose Testing

The maltose contained in Antihep can interfere with some types of blood glucose monitoring systems, i.e., those based on the glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinequinone (GDH-PQQ) method. This can result in falsely elevated glucose readings and, consequently, in the inappropriate administration of insulin, resulting in life-threatening hypoglycemia. Cases of true hypoglycemia may go untreated if the hypoglycemic state is masked by falsely elevated results.

5.4 Monitoring: Serum anti-HBs Antibody Levels

Liver transplant patients should be monitored regularly for serum anti-HBs antibody levels using a quantitative assay [ see Dosage and Administration ].

5.5 Infusion Reactions

Certain adverse drug reactions may be related to the rate of infusion. The recommended infusion rate given under Dosage and Administration (2.1) must be closely followed. Patients must be closely monitored and carefully observed for any symptoms throughout the infusion period and immediately following an infusion.

5.6 Coagulation Disorders

For postexposure prophylaxis indications, Antihep must be administered intramuscularly only. In patients who have severe thrombocytopenia or any coagulation disorder that would contraindicate intramuscular injections, Antihep should be given only if the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks.

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6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common expected adverse drug reactions for intravenous immune globulins like Antihep are chills, fever, headaches, vomiting, allergic reactions, nausea, arthralgia and moderate low back pain.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Cangene Corporation at 1-800-768-2304 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

6.1 Overall Adverse Reaction Profile

The most common expected adverse drug reactions for intravenous immune globulins like Antihep are chills, fever, headaches, vomiting, allergic reactions, nausea, arthralgia and moderate low back pain 7,8. In a clinical trial in liver transplant patients, 2 adverse drug reactions of tremor and hypotension were reported in 2 of 14 patients who received intravenous infusions of Antihep 8. In studies with healthy volunteers, only 1 adverse drug reaction of nausea was reported in the 70 adult subjects who received an intramuscular administration of Antihep 8.

Although no anaphylactic reactions have been reported following Antihep administration, anaphylactic reactions have been reported following the administration of other immune globulin products on rare occasions [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ].

6.2 Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials

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.

Hepatitis B-Related Liver Transplantation

In an ongoing clinical trial, only 2 adverse drug reactions occurred following the 313 Antihep infusions in 14 liver transplant patients. A listing of all adverse events (including those assessed as unrelated to study drug) occurring in >10% of patients are summarized in Table 4 below. These adverse events were reported in an interim analysis from a one-year Phase 3 clinical trial examining Antihep for the prevention of hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation. This study utilized the recommended dosing regimen outlined in Table 1 [ see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. The 2 attributed adverse drug reactions of tremor and hypotension were reported in 2 patients. All reactions were associated with a single Antihep infusion during the first week post-transplant. All reactions resolved on the same day and did not recur with subsequent Antihep infusions.

Adverse Event by system organ class Number of AEs (in number of patients) N=14
Blood and lymphatic systems disorder

- Splenomegaly

8 (6)
Eye disorders

- Presbyopia

2 (2)
Gastrointestinal disorders

- Aphthous stomatitis

- Diarrhoea

- Dyspepsia

- Gingival Hyperplasia

3 (3)

10 (8)

5 (5)

3 (3)

General disorders

- Fatigue

- Oedema peripheral

- Pyrexia

6 (6)

3 (2)

3 (3)

Hepatobiliary disorders

- Hepatobiliary disease

3 (3)
Immune system disorders

- Liver transplant rejection

7 (5)
Infections and infestations

- Diarrhoea Infectious

- Pneumonia

- Sepsis

2 (2)

2 (2)

3 (2)

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

- Hyperglycaemia

4 (4)
Musculoskeletal

- Back pain

2 (2)
Nervous system disorders

- Amnesia

- Essential Tremor

- Headache

2 (2)

6 (2)

15 (9)

Psychiatric disorders

- Agitation

2 (2)
Renal and urinary disorders

- Nocturia

2 (2)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal

- Pleural effusion

3 (3)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

- Pruritus

- Rash

3 (3)

2 (2)

Vascular disorders

- Hypertension

- Hypotension

8 (7)

2 (2)


Healthy Volunteer Studies

Seventy healthy male and female volunteers received a single dose of Antihep intramuscularly in clinical trials 8. Seventeen (17) subjects reported 30 adverse events following administration of Antihep. The most frequently reported adverse events included 4 subjects (6%) who experienced headache, 7 subjects (10%) who had cold symptoms or flu and 2 subjects (3%) who experienced lightheadedness/fainted. The majority of events were reported as mild and were not related to study drug. One adverse event, an episode of nausea, was considered to be drug related. There were no serious adverse events reported. A similar number of subjects in the comparator groups reported adverse events.

6.3 Postmarketing Experience

As of April 2007, there have been no postmarketing adverse events reported for Antihep administered IM

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

7.1 Live Attenuated Virus Vaccines

Immune globulin administration may impair the efficacy of live attenuated virus vaccines such as measles, rubella, mumps and varicella 1,2,7. Vaccination with live virus vaccines should be deferred until approximately three months after administration of Antihep, Antihep Intravenous (Human). Persons who received Antihep less than 14 days after live virus vaccination should be revaccinated 3 months after the administration of the immune globulin, unless serologic test results indicate that antibodies were produced 1,2.

There are no available data on drug interactions of Antihep with other medications.

7.2 Drug-Laboratory Interactions: Serological Testing

Antibodies present in Antihep may interfere with some serological tests. After administration of immune globulins like Antihep, a transitory increase of passively transferred antibodies in the patient’s blood may result in misleading positive results in serological testing.

7.3 Drug-Laboratory Interactions: Blood Glucose Testing

Antihep contains maltose which can interfere with certain types of blood glucose monitoring systems. [ See Warnings and Precautions (5.3) .] Only testing systems that are glucose-specific should be used in patients receiving Antihep. This interference can result in falsely elevated glucose readings that can lead to untreated hypoglycemia or to inappropriate insulin administration, resulting in life-threatening hypoglycemia.

The product information of the blood glucose testing system, including that of the test strips, should be carefully reviewed to determine if the system is appropriate for use with maltose-containing parenteral products. If any uncertainty exists, contact the manufacturer of the testing system to determine if the system is appropriate for use with maltose-containing parenteral products.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy Category C

Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with Antihep. It is also not known whether Antihep can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproductive capacity. Antihep should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly indicated.

8.2 Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether Antihep is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Antihep is administered to a nursing mother.

10 OVERDOSAGE

Consequences of an overdose are not known. Although no data are available, clinical experience reported with other intravenously administered human immune globulin preparations suggests that doses above 1 g immune globulin/kg body weight are tolerated. For intramuscular administration of Antihep, the only manifestations of overdose would be pain and tenderness at the injection site.

11 DESCRIPTION

Antihep, Antihep Intravenous (Human), is a solvent/detergent-treated sterile solution of purified gamma globulin containing anti-HBs. It is prepared from plasma donated by healthy, screened donors with high titers of anti-HBs that is purified by an anion-exchange column chromatography manufacturing method 9,10. Antihep is formulated as a 5% (50 mg/mL) protein solution with 10% maltose and 0.03% polysorbate 80 at pH 5.6. It is available in 1 mL and 5 mL single dose vials. The product appears as a clear to opalescent liquid. It contains no preservatives and is intended for single use. Antihep may be administered intravenously or intramuscularly dependent upon indication [see Indications and Usage (1.) ]. The source plasma used in the manufacture of this product was tested by FDA licensed Nucleic Acid testing (NAT) for HIV-1 and HCV and found to be negative. An investigational NAT for HBV was performed on all Source Plasma used, and found to be negative; however, the significance of a negative result has not been established. Plasma also has been tested by inprocess NAT for hepatitis A virus (HAV) and parvovirus B19 (B19) via minipool testing and the limit for B19 in the manufacturing pool is set not to exceed 10 4 IU of B19 DNA per mL.

The manufacturing process contains two steps implemented specifically for virus clearance. The solvent and detergent step (using tri-n-butyl phosphate and Triton X-100) is effective in the inactivation of enveloped viruses, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV 11. Virus filtration, using a Planova 20N virus filter, is effective for the removal of viruses based on their size, including some non-enveloped viruses 12. These two viral clearance steps are designed to increase product safety by reducing the risk of transmission of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. In addition to these two specific steps, the process step of anion-exchange chromatography was identified as contributing to the overall viral clearance capacity for small non-enveloped viruses.

The inactivation and reduction of known enveloped and non–enveloped model viruses were validated in laboratory studies as summarized in Table 5. The viruses employed for spiking studies were selected to represent those viruses that are potential contaminants in the product, and to represent a wide range of physiochemical properties in order to challenge the manufacturing process’s ability for viral clearance in general.

Enveloped Enveloped Non-Enveloped
Genome RNA DNA RNA DNA
Virus HIV-1 BVDV PRV HAV EMC MMV PPV
Family retro flavi herpes picorna parvo
Size (nm) 80-100 50-70 120-200 25-30 30 20-25 18-24
Anion Exchange Chromatography(partitioning) Not evaluated 2.3 n.e. 3.4 n.e.
20N Filtration(size exclusion) ≥ 4.7 ≥ 3.5 ≥ 5.6 The PRV was retained by the 0.1 μm pre-filter during the virus validation. Since manufacturing employs a 0.1 μm pre-filter before the 20N filter, the claim of ≥ 5.6 reduction is considered applicable. n.e. 4.8 n.e. 4.1
Solvent/Detergent (inactivation) ≥ 4.7 ≥ 7.3 ≥ 5.5 Not evaluated
Total Reduction (log10) ≥ 9.4 ≥ 10.8 ≥ 11.1 2.3 4.8 3.4 4.1

Abbreviations:

HIV-1: human immunodeficiency virus-1; relevant virus for human immunodeficiency virus-1 and model for HIV-2

BVDV: bovine viral diarrhea virus; model virus for hepatitis C virus (HCV) and West Nile virus (WNV)

PRV: pseudorabies virus; model for large enveloped DNA viruses, including herpes

HAV: human hepatitis A virus; relevant virus for HAV and model for small non-enveloped viruses in general

EMC: encephalomyocarditis virus; model for HAV and for small non-enveloped viruses in general

MMV: murine minute virus; model for human parvovirus B19 and for small non-enveloped viruses in general

PPV: porcine parvovirus; model for human parvovirus B19 and for small non-enveloped viruses in general

n.e.: not evaluated

a The PRV was retained by the 0.1 μm pre-filter during the virus validation. Since manufacturing employs a 0.1 μm pre-filter before the 20N filter, the claim of ≥ 5.6 reduction is considered applicable.

The product potency is expressed in international units (IU) by comparison to the World Health Organization (WHO) standard Antihep. Each vial contains greater than 312 IU/mL. The measured potency of each lot is stamped on the vial label [ see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3.) ].

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

HBIGIV products provide passive immunization for individuals exposed to the hepatitis B virus, by binding to the surface antigen and reducing the rate of hepatitis B infection 13-16.

Hepatitis B virus reinfection following liver transplantation is the consequence of exposure of the new liver graft to hepatitis B virus. Reinfection may occur immediately at the time of liver reperfusion due to circulating virus or later from virus retained in extrahepatic sites.

The mechanism whereby Antihep protects the transplanted liver against HBV reinfection is not well understood. HBIG may protect naive hepatocytes against infection through blockage of a putative HBV receptor 17. Alternatively, HBIG may neutralize circulating virions through immune precipitation and immune complex formation or may trigger an antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity response resulting in target cell lysis 17, 18. In addition, HBIG has been reported to bind to hepatocytes and interact with HBsAg within cells 19. Regardless of the mechanism, there is evidence of a dose-dependent response to HBIG treatment 5,8.

12.2 Postexposure Prophylaxis

Clinical studies conducted prior to 1983 with hepatitis B immune globulins similar to Antihep demonstrated the advantage of simultaneous administration of hepatitis B vaccine and Antihep (Human), by the i.m. route. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) advises that the combination prophylaxis be provided following certain instances of hepatitis B exposure. 1,2 Recommendations on post-exposure prophylaxis are based on available efficacy data, primarily from studies in neonates 1,2. Cases of hepatitis B are rarely seen following exposure to HBV in persons with pre-existing anti-HBs antibodies.

Infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers are at risk of being infected with HBV and becoming chronic carriers 1. The risk is especially great if the mother is also HBeAg-positive 1. For an infant with perinatal exposure to an HBsAg-positive and HBeAg-positive mother, a regimen combining one dose of Antihep (Human) at birth with the hepatitis B vaccine series started soon after birth has been shown to be 85-98% effective in preventing development of the HBV carrier state 1,2. Regimens involving either multiple doses of Antihep (Human) alone or the vaccine series alone have a 70-75% efficacy, while a single dose of Antihep (Human) alone has 50% efficacy 1,2.

Since infants have close contact with primary caregivers and have a higher risk of becoming HBV carriers after acute HBV infection, prophylaxis of an infant less than 12 months of age with Antihep (Human) and Hepatitis B Vaccine is indicated if the mother or primary caregiver has acute HBV infection 1.

Sexual partners of HBsAg-positive persons are at increased risk of acquiring HBV infection. A single dose of Antihep (Human) is 75% effective if administered within two weeks of the last sexual exposure to a person with acute hepatitis B 1,2.

HBV infection is a well-recognized risk to health-care personnel (HCP). The risk of HBV infection is primarily related to the degree of contact with blood in the work place and also to the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status of the source person. In studies of HCP who sustained injuries from needles contaminated with blood containing HBV, the risk of developing clinical hepatitis if the blood was hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBeAg-positive was 22%-31%; the risk of developing serologic evidence of HBV infection was 37%-62%. In comparison, the risk of developing clinical hepatitis from needles contaminated with HBsAg-positive, HBeAg-negative blood is 1%-6%, and the risk of developing serological evidence of HBV infection is 23%-37% 20. The current recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices 1,2, recommends postexposure prophylaxis with Antihep and/or hepatitis B vaccine series for any susceptible, unvaccinated person who sustains an occupational blood or body fluid exposure.

The pharmacokinetic profile of Antihep has been evaluated in two clinical trials [ see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. The comparative bioavailability of Antihep and another commercially available hepatitis B immunoglobulin product indicates that Antihep has similar efficacy.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

Nonclinical pharmacology studies have not been performed with Antihep Intravenous (Human) as there is broad experience in humans with intravenous and intramuscular administration of immune globulin products. Since the product is of human origin, immunogenicity is expected when administered to animals.

Toxicology studies have not been performed with Antihep Intravenous (Human) because the product has been formulated with ingredients that are know to be non-toxic at the levels at which they are present in the final product.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Clinical Trials in Liver Transplant Patients

A clinical trial examining the effectiveness of Antihep in the prevention of hepatitis B recurrence following liver transplantation is currently ongoing. The study is a multi-center, open-labeled, superiority study involving HBsAg-positive/HBeAg-negative liver transplant patients. The study included two arms, an active treatment group of patients enrolled to receive the described dosing regimen of Antihep starting during transplant and continuing over the course of a year, and a retrospective untreated control group of historical patients with data gathered by chart review.

An interim report of this study evaluated the data from 30 liver transplant patients, 16 Antihep patients who have completed the study and 14 retrospective untreated control patients. The patients in both groups were HBsAg-positive/HBeAg-negative liver transplant patients who met similar entry criteria, had similar medical history and had similar status at transplant based on MELD and/or ChildPugh-Turcotte scores.

In the active treatment group, Antihep doses of 35 mL started during transplant according to the regimen identified in Table 1 [see Dosing and Administration ]. As a result of the targeted potency of 550 IU/mL at the time of manufacture [ see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3.) ], the 35 mL doses of Antihep used in this study actually contained between 17,000 and 23,000 IU anti-HBs. These 35 mL doses consistently yielded anti-HBs trough levels > 500 IU/L (99% of all anti-HBs levels were > 500 IU/L; see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Frequency Histogram of Trough anti-HBs Levels more than 30 days after Transplant

Values below the target trough were only observed in the 2 patients with HBV recurrence who had anti-HBs levels <150 IU/L at the time of seroconversion.

For the efficacy endpoint of the proportion of patients with HBV recurrence (HBsAg positive and/or HBeAg positive after 4 weeks post-OLT), a significant treatment effect was observed. As summarized in Table 6, HBV recurrence was seen in 2/15 or 13% of Antihep patients compared to 12/14 or 86% of retrospective untreated control patients (see Table 6). One of the 16 Antihep patients died 2 weeks post-transplant was excluded from all efficacy analyses, but was included for safety analyses. The death was not HBV or study drug related.

Antihep Retrospective Untreated Control P-value

(Fisher's Exact Test)

HBV Recurrence

Proportion, % (95% confidence interval)

13.3

(1.7 -40.5)

85.7

(57.2 -98.2)

< 0.001

The conclusion that Antihep monotherapy post-OLT is effective at preventing HBV recurrence post-OLT is further supported by the secondary endpoints of time to recurrence, survival, anti-HBs levels and biochemical markers of liver inflammation. Time to recurrence for the Antihep treatment group was 358 days for two HBV recurrent patients. In comparison, the retrospective untreated control patients had a median time to recurrence of 88 days with a 95% confidence interval of 47 to 125 days. Survival calculations showed that 93% (14/15) of patients in the active treatment group survived for at least 1-year post-OLT compared to 43% (6/14) retrospective control patients. One patient in the active treatment group died 266 days post-OLT. The median time to death for the retrospective control patients was 339 days calculated using the product limit method. The endpoints for HBV recurrence were supported by an observed drop in anti-HBs levels and elevated liver function tests at the time of recurrence.

Antihep is recommended in patients who have no or low levels of viral replication at the time of liver transplantation. The clinical trial evaluating Antihep in liver transplant patients selected patients with no or low replication status only. Antihep therapy has not been evaluated in combination with antiviral therapy post-transplantation.

Figure 1: Frequency Histogram of Trough anti-HBs Levels more than 30 days after Transplant

14.2 Comparative Bioavailability Studies

The pharmacokinetic profile of Antihep after intramuscular injection of 0.06 mL/kg in two 84-day pharmacokinetics studies 8, 70 volunteers were administered Antihep. The mean peak concentrations (C max) in both studies were comparable and occurred within 4-5 days of administration. Both studies demonstrated mean elimination half-lives (t ½) following IM administration of 22 to 25 days. The mean clearance rate was 0.21 to 0.24 L/day and the volume of distribution was approximately 7.5 L. Thus, Antihep demonstrates pharmacokinetic parameters similar to those reported by Scheiermann and Kuwert 21.

The maximum concentration of anti-HBs achieved by Antihep was consistent with that of two other licensed Antihep (Human) products when compared in the two pharmacokinetic trials 8. Comparability of pharmacokinetics between Antihep and a commercially available Antihep product administered i.m. indicates that similar efficacy of Antihep should be inferred.

15 REFERENCES

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

NDC 53270-0053-1; a carton containing a 1.0 mL single dose vial (>312 IU/mL; measured potency of each lot is stamped on the vial label) and a package insert.

NDC 53270-0054-1; a carton containing a 5.0 mL single dose vial (>312 IU/mL; measured potency of each lot is stamped on the vial label) and a package insert.

Store at 36 to 46 °F (2 to 8 °C). Do not freeze. Do not use after expiration date. Use within 6 hours after the vial has been entered.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Patients should be informed that Antihep is prepared from human plasma. Products made from human plasma may contain infectious agents such as viruses that can cause disease. The risk that such products will transmit an infectious agent has been reduced by screening plasma donors for prior exposure to certain viruses, by testing for the presence of certain current virus infections, and by inactivating and/or removing certain viruses during manufacturing. Despite these measures, such products can still potentially transmit disease. There is also the possibility that unknown infectious agents may be present in such products.

Individuals known to have severe, potentially life-threatening reaction to human globulin should not receive Antihep or any other immune globulin products. Individuals who are deficient in IgA may have the potential for developing IgA antibodies and have severe potentially life threatening allergic reactions. In case of allergic or anaphylactic reaction, the infusion should be stopped immediately. In case of shock, the current medical standards for treatment of shock should be observed.

The maltose contained in Antihep can interfere with some types of blood glucose monitoring systems. Only testing systems that are glucose-specific should be used in patients receiving Antihep. This inference can result in falsely elevated glucose readings that can lead to untreated hypoglycemia or to inappropriate insulin administration, resulting in life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Antihep pharmaceutical active ingredients containing related brand and generic drugs:

Active ingredient is the part of the drug or medicine which is biologically active. This portion of the drug is responsible for the main action of the drug which is intended to cure or reduce the symptom or disease. The other portions of the drug which are inactive are called excipients; there role is to act as vehicle or binder. In contrast to active ingredient, the inactive ingredient's role is not significant in the cure or treatment of the disease. There can be one or more active ingredients in a drug.


Antihep available forms, composition, doses:

Form of the medicine is the form in which the medicine is marketed in the market, for example, a medicine X can be in the form of capsule or the form of chewable tablet or the form of tablet. Sometimes same medicine can be available as injection form. Each medicine cannot be in all forms but can be marketed in 1, 2, or 3 forms which the pharmaceutical company decided based on various background research results.
Composition is the list of ingredients which combinedly form a medicine. Both active ingredients and inactive ingredients form the composition. The active ingredient gives the desired therapeutic effect whereas the inactive ingredient helps in making the medicine stable.
Doses are various strengths of the medicine like 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and so on. Each medicine comes in various doses which is decided by the manufacturer, that is, pharmaceutical company. The dose is decided on the severity of the symptom or disease.


Antihep destination | category:

Destination is defined as the organism to which the drug or medicine is targeted. For most of the drugs what we discuss, human is the drug destination.
Drug category can be defined as major classification of the drug. For example, an antihistaminic or an antipyretic or anti anginal or pain killer, anti-inflammatory or so.


Antihep Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes:

A medicine is classified depending on the organ or system it acts [Anatomical], based on what result it gives on what disease, symptom [Therapeutical], based on chemical composition [Chemical]. It is called as ATC code. The code is based on Active ingredients of the medicine. A medicine can have different codes as sometimes it acts on different organs for different indications. Same way, different brands with same active ingredients and same indications can have same ATC code.


Antihep pharmaceutical companies:

Pharmaceutical companies are drug manufacturing companies that help in complete development of the drug from the background research to formation, clinical trials, release of the drug into the market and marketing of the drug.
Researchers are the persons who are responsible for the scientific research and is responsible for all the background clinical trials that resulted in the development of the drug.


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References

  1. Dailymed."HEPAGAM B (HEPATITIS B IMMUNE GLOBULIN (HUMAN)) INJECTION, SOLUTION [CANGENE BIOPHARMA, LLC]". https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailym... (accessed August 28, 2018).

Frequently asked Questions

Can i drive or operate heavy machine after consuming Antihep?

Depending on the reaction of the Antihep after taken, if you are feeling dizziness, drowsiness or any weakness as a reaction on your body, Then consider Antihep not safe to drive or operate heavy machine after consumption. Meaning that, do not drive or operate heavy duty machines after taking the capsule if the capsule has a strange reaction on your body like dizziness, drowsiness. As prescribed by a pharmacist, it is dangerous to take alcohol while taking medicines as it exposed patients to drowsiness and health risk. Please take note of such effect most especially when taking Primosa capsule. It's advisable to consult your doctor on time for a proper recommendation and medical consultations.

Is Antihep addictive or habit forming?

Medicines are not designed with the mind of creating an addiction or abuse on the health of the users. Addictive Medicine is categorically called Controlled substances by the government. For instance, Schedule H or X in India and schedule II-V in the US are controlled substances.

Please consult the medicine instruction manual on how to use and ensure it is not a controlled substance.In conclusion, self medication is a killer to your health. Consult your doctor for a proper prescription, recommendation, and guidiance.

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Review

sdrugs.com conducted a study on Antihep, and the result of the survey is set out below. It is noteworthy that the product of the survey is based on the perception and impressions of the visitors of the website as well as the views of Antihep consumers. We, as a result of this, advice that you do not base your therapeutic or medical decisions on this result, but rather consult your certified medical experts for their recommendations.

Visitor reports

Visitor reported useful

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported side effects

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported price estimates

No survey data has been collected yet

One visitor reported frequency of use

How often in a day do you take the medicine?
Are you taking the Antihep drug as prescribed by the doctor?

Few medications can be taken 4 times in a day more than prescribed when the doctor's advice mentions the medicine can be taken according to frequency or severity of symptoms. Most times, be very careful and clear about the number of times you are taking the medication. The report of sdrugs.com website users about the frequency of taking the drug Antihep is mentioned below.
Visitors%
4 times in a day1
100.0%

Visitor reported doses

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported time for results

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported administration

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported age

No survey data has been collected yet

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The information was verified by Dr. Rachana Salvi, MD Pharmacology

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