Patent Application
20230226064
Compositions and technologies relating to an oral liquid formulation or dosage form of ruxolitinib.
Ruxolitinib, (R)-3-(4-(7H-pyrrolo[2,3-cl]pyrimidin-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-3-cyclopentylpropanenitrile, is a marketed product that is formulated as an oral immediate release tablets administered twice-a-day (BID) in 5-mg, 10-mg, 15-mg, 20-mg, and 25-mg dose strengths for treatment of Janus kinase (JAK) associated diseases, such as myelofibrosis (MF), polycythemia vera (PV) and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) for adult patients. The formulation of ruxolitinib addressed herein supplements the existing products by providing a dosage form that is in liquid form.
GvHD is prevalent in pediatric patients, 28 days to 18 years old, thus an age-appropriate dosage form is desired. In addition to the pediatric population, there are also adult patients are that have difficulty swallowing solid dosage form of ruxolitinib. Accordingly, there is a need for new and improved formulations of various doses of ruxolitinib to improve safety and to increase patient compliance.
An aspect of the present invention provides an oral liquid formulation comprising ruxolitinib, also known as (R)-3-(4-(7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-3-cyclopentylpropanenitrile, of formula I:
or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt.
In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an oral formulation comprising:
(a) ruxolitinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,
(b) a solvent,
(c) a preservative.
In one embodiment, the solvent in the oral formulation is water.
In one embodiment, the preservative in the oral formulation is a mixture of methyl paraben and propyl paraben.
In one embodiment, the oral formulation further comprises a co-solvent.
In one embodiment, the oral formulation further comprises a sweetner.
In one embodiment, the oral formulation further comprises a flavouring agent.
In one embodiment, the oral formulation further comprises a pH-adjusting agent.
In one embodiment, the co-solvent is propylene glycol.
In one embodiment, the sweetner is sucralose.
In one embodiment, the flavour is strawberry flavour.
In one embodiment, the pH-adjusting agent is citric acid.
In one embodiment, the ruxolitinib (on a free base basis) concentration is about 1 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL.
Other aspect of the present invention provides a method of treating a Janus kinase (JAK) associated disease comprising the step of administering the oral formulation of the presention disclosure, comprising about 1 mg to about 65 mg of ruxolitinib, on a free base basis, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
The current commercial formulation of Jakafi/Jakavi™ (ruxolitinib) is an oral tablet, which is administered twice-a-day (BID).
Ruxolitinib phosphate has been designated a Class 1 compound in the Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS). Ruxolitinib phosphate is a water-soluble drug with pH dependent solubility exhibiting increased solubility at lower pH. The drug substance in liquid shows degradation mainly due to oxidation. Temperature and oxygen triggers an increase in oxidative degradation. For an oral solution formulation, the pH needs to be maintained between 2.4 to 4.0 with an acidifying agent such as, citric acid to keep the drug in solution. Nitrogen purging is conducted during the manufacturing process at the drug dispersion step to provide an inert environment with minimal oxygen. Maintaining the pH of the solution at 2.4-4.0 with the right preservative system, such as methyl paraben plus propyl paraben, taste masking agent, such as sucralose, a flavouring agent such as strawberry flavour, and a simple method of mixing was found to be effective resulting in a stable palatable oral solution formulation.
The formulation is stable based on chemical/physical stability with a current shelf life of 12 months at room temperature (shelf life is expected to be extended as additional stability data becomes available) and microbial stability with optimum levels of preservatives and safety levels of excipients.
This formulation can be stored at room temperature in contrast to cool temperature where most of the liquid dosage forms are stored. It is a sugar free, multiple-use formulation that can be given to pediatric patients for chronic use without much concern on dental carries. It can also be given to adult patients who has difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms.
The dose of ruxolitinib administered to a patient depends on numerous factors such as weight of patient, body surface area of the patient, the severity of symptoms and the nature of any other drugs being administered. Therefore the therapeutic dose was adjusted accordingly to achieve comparable pharmacokinetic profile and similar therapeutic effect.
The formulation is an immediate release formulation. It is usually administered twice-a-day (BID).
As used herein the term “pharmaceutical composition” means a mixture (e.g., a solid dispersion) and/or solution (e.g., a liquid solution) containing a therapeutic compound to be administered to a mammal, e.g., a human in order to prevent, treat or control a particular disease or condition affecting the mammal. The term “pharmaceutical composition” as used herein, for example, also encompasses an intimate physical mixture formed at high temperature and pressure.
As used herein the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” refers to those compounds, materials, compositions and/or dosage forms, which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for contact with the tissues of mammals, especially humans, without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response and other problem complications commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.
As used herein the term “therapeutic compound” means any compound, substance, drug, medicament, or active ingredient having a therapeutic or pharmacological effect, and which is suitable for administration to a mammal, e.g., a human, in a composition that is particularly suitable for oral administration. Particularly useful as a therapeutic compound in the present invention is ruxolitinib and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
As used herein the term “ruxolitinib” refers to the free base of ruxolitinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (e.g., ruxolitinib phosphate).
In an exemplary embodiment, the oral formulation contains ruxolitinib phosphate salt.
In another embodiment, the oral formulation comprises one or more preservative(s). The preservatives can be antimicrobial preservatives, alone or in combination. The preservative(s) can be selected from the group consisting of potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, methyl paraben and propyl paraben.
In one particular embodiment, the preservative is a mixture of methyl paraben and propyl paraben.
The ratio of methyl paraben and propyl paraben in the preservative mixture can vary from 3:1 to 1:9 (weight ratio).
The conceration range of preservative in the formulation is from about 0.1 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL. As an example, the preservative methyl paraben concentration is about 1.2-1.3 mg/mL and propyl paraben concentration is 0.3-0.5 mg/mL.
In another embodiment, the oral formulation comprises one or more co-solvent(s). The co-solvent(s) can be selected from the group consisting of ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol and, polyethylene glycol.
In one particular embodiment, the co-solvent is propylene glycol.
The conceration range of co-solvent(s) in the formulation is from about 50 mg/mL to 300 mg/mL. As an example, the co-solvent concentration is about 100-200 mg/mL, more specifically, 150 mg/m L.
In another embodiment, the oral formulation comprises one or more sweetner(s) to mask unpleasant organoleptic properties of drug or excipients. The sweetner(s) can be selected from the group consisting of sucrose, sucralose, aspartame, Acesulfame potassium and sodium saccharin.
In one particular embodiment, the sweetner is a sucralose.
The conceration range of sweetner in the formulation is from about 0.5 mg/mL to 6 mg/mL. As an example, the sweetner concentration is about 1-3 mg/mL, more specifically, 2 mg/m L.
In another embodiment, the oral formulation comprises one or more flavouring agents to mask unpleasant organoleptic properties of drug or excipients. The flavouring agents can be selected from the group consisting of flavours of banana, chocolate, orange, cherry, strawberry, blue berry, tutti fruity etc.
In one particular embodiment, the flavoring agent is a strawberry flavour.
The conceration range of flavouring agent in the formulation is from about 0.5 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL. As an example, the strawberry flavour concentration is about 1-4 mg/mL, more specifically, 2.5 mg/mL.
In another embodiment, the oral formulation comprises one or more pH adjusting agent(s). The pH adjusting agent(s) can be selected from the group consisting of citric acid, fumaric acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, tartaric acid and succinic acid.
In one particular embodiment, the pH-adjusting agent is citric acid.
The conceration range of pH-adjusting agent in the formulation is from about 2 mg/mL to 8 mg/mL. As an example, the pH-adjusting agent range is about 4-5 mg/mL, specifically about 4.27 mg/mL.
In another embodiment, the pH level of the oral formulation is in the range from about 2 to 4, specifically about 2.7±0.5.
In another embodiment, ruxolitinib (on the free base basis) concentration in oral formulation is from about 0.1 mg/mL to about 10 mg/mL, preferrably from about 1 mg/mL to 6 mg/mL, most preferably at about 1 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL.
Another aspect of the present invention pertains to methods of treating a JAK-associated disease or disorder in an individual (e.g., patient) by administering to the individual in need of such treatment the oral liquid formulation of the invention. A JAK-associated disease can include any disease, disorder or condition that is directly or indirectly linked to expression or activity of the JAK, including overexpression and/or abnormal activity levels. A JAK-associated disease can also include any disease, disorder or condition that can be prevented, ameliorated, or cured by modulating JAK activity.
In further embodiments, the JAK-associated disease is cancer including those characterized by solid tumors (e.g., prostate cancer, renal cancer, hepatic cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, cancers of the head and neck, thyroid cancer, glioblastoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, Castleman's disease, uterine leiomyosarcoma, melanoma etc.), hematological cancers (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) or multiple myeloma), and skin cancer such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and cutaneous B-cell lymphoma. Example CTCLs include Sezary syndrome and mycosis fungoides.
JAK-associated diseases can further include myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) such as polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), primary myelofibrosis (PMF), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES), systemic mast cell disease (SMCD), and the like. In some embodiments, the myeloproliferative disorder is myelofibrosis (e.g., primary myelofibrosis (PMF) or post polycythemia vera/essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis (Post-PV/ET MF)). In some embodiments, the myeloproliferative disorder is post-essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis (Post-ET MF). In some embodiments, the myeloproliferative disorder is post polycythemia vera myelofibrosis (Post-PV MF).
JAK-associated diseases can further include graft vs. host disease (GvHD) such as acute graft vs. host disease (aGvHD) and chronic graft vs. host disease (cGvHD)
The following examples illustrate aspects of the invention and are not a limitation on the present invention. Formulations for preparing the oral solution are set out below.
This stable pediatric oral solution (Table 1) has been developed and has a current shelf life of 12 months at room temperature with the potential for extension as additional stability data becomes available. Ruxolitinib phosphate tend to form co-crystals with sodium benzoate, a preservative. The combination of methyl paraben and propyl paraben, as a preservative system, has been found to be acceptable in the current oral solution formulation. The manufacturing process is a simple mixing process with several mixing substeps to dissolve components prior to mixing together and does not require any special process or technology. The taste of the drug substance is mostly masked with use of sucralose, a sweetener and flavours like strawberry flavour. The excipients and their levels in the formulation are acceptable for children age>1 month to 18 years from the safety perspective.
Development of stable and palatable oral solution formulation for ruxolitinib is challenging due to pH dependent solubility (see Table 2) of the drug substance with mainly oxidation degradation products at higher temperatures/moisture content and/or in presence of oxygen. As illustrated in Table 2 below, ruxolitinib phosphate shows pH-dependent solubility in aqueous medium.
In order to keep the drug in solution (1 and 5 mg/mL), citric acid, a palatable pH-modifying agent was chosen. Citric acid at 0.43% was selected as pH modifying agent to maintain the drug in solution at pH 2.7±0.3.
Forced degradation of initial formulations was performed to check the degradation profile of the solution. Forced degradation was carried out by using acid (0.1N HCl), base (0.1N NaOH), high temperature like 60° C. and oxidation (3% H2O2) as main parameters. There were increased levels of two major degradants 521-11 and 536-11 (Table 3).
The structure of 521-11 is
The structure of 536-11 is
The stability data of the 5 mg/mL oral solution formulation in two fill volumes (60 mL fill in 125 mL bottle and 140 mL fill in 300 mL bottle) has been generated and found to be acceptable (Table 4).
The oral solution (5 mg/mL) is found to be stable at room temperature with acceptable taste safe levels of excipients with simple manufacturing process.
Purpose:
Acute graft vs. host disease (aGvHD) pathophysiology begins with activation of host APC which in turn present host antigens to donor immune cells, leading to donor T-cell proliferation and inflammatory cytokine production. These inflammatory cytokines then recruit and induce proliferation of additional immune effector cells, thereby perpetuating an adverse cycle of allo-reactive tissue injury and inflammation (Paczesny et al 2010). Ruxolitinib has been shown to lower pro-inflammatory cytokines in MF patients. In addition, pre-clinical data support the mechanism of action of ruxolitinib in GvHD to: i.) impair APC function, ii.) inhibit donor T cell proliferation, iii.) suppress adverse cytokine production, and iv.) improve survival and disease manifestations in GvHD mouse models (Parampalli Yajnanarayana et al 2015, Heine et al 2013, Spoerl et al 2014). Further, recently published data have shown evidence of clinical efficacy with ruxolitinib treatment when added to immunosuppressive therapy in patients with SR-aGvHD (Zeiser et al 2015; Spoerl et al 2014). Clinical studies using ruxolitinib alone or in comparison to best available therapy are currently underway in the SR-aGvHD setting for adult patients and a proportion of adolescents 12 years of age.
While children are at less risk of developing aGvHD than adults, that risk is still significant especially when using alternative donor sources (Jacobsohn and Vogelsang 2007). Similar to the adults, there are limited treatment options for Grade II-IV aGvHD including systemic corticosteroids as initial standard of care for pediatric patients. With only 30-50% of the children responding to corticorteroids, there is a high unmet medical need for optimal initial and second-line therapies in the pediatric population. Recent data with ruxolitinib in SR-aGvHD pediatric patients have shown encouraging overall response rates compared to corticosteroids+/−CNI alone. Given this data (presented above) in the current setting of a lack of effective first- or second-line treatments for pediatric aGvHD, the study intends to assess safety, activity and pharmacokinetics of ruxolitinib treatment with corticosteroids in treatment-naïve and SR-aGvHD patients aged 28 days up to <18 years of age. It is expected that ruxolitinib will provide higher rates of disease response compared to steroids +/− CNI alone as upfront treatment of grade II-IV aGvHD. It is further expected that this response will be durable during steroid taper, representing a meaningful clinical benefit for patients.
Furthermore, treatment-naïve patients could potentially benefit from the steroid-sparing effect due to the risks associated with long-term exposure and toxic effects of steroids observed in children. The expected mechanism of action as well as the safety profile of ruxolitinib in both treatment-naïve and SR-aGvHD are similar, given that the treatment-naïve patients have not been subjected to extensive pre-treatment for the underlying disease as compared to adults.
Expected meaningful clinical benefits in patients treated with ruxolitinib include its steroid sparing effect, reducing the proportion of patients experiencing flares during steroid tapering, reducing proportion of patients with infections and severity of infections, reducing hospitalization duration and requirement for re-admission, maintenance of graft vs. malignancy effect, and possible reduction of the proportion of patients developing cGvHD.
This open-label, single-arm, Phase I/II multi-center study will investigate the PK, activity and safety of ruxolitinib added to the patient's immunosuppressive regimen in infants, children, and adolescents ages≥28 days to <18 years old with either grade II-IV aGvHD or grade II-IV SR-aGvHD. This trial will utilize age groups: Group 1 includes patients≥12 y to <18 y, Group 2 includes patients≥6 y to <12 y, Group 3 includes patients≥2 y to <6 y, and Group 4 includes patients≥28 days to <2 y. Patients will remain in the age group throughout the study based on the age at the time of start of treatment. Enrollment initiation into the youngest age group, Group 4 (Phase I/II) will be subject to the review of available PK, safety, and activity data in consultation with the data monitoring committee (DMC), Pediatric Committee (PDCO), and a final decision by the Sponsor.
All patients will be enrolled and treated for 24 weeks (approximately 6 months) or until early discontinuation. All patients will also be followed for additional 18 months (total duration=2 years from enrollment). Should the occurrence of aGvHD flare require treatment re-initiation or should ruxolitinib not be discontinued by the end of 24 weeks due to extended tapering, patients may continue taper ruxolitinib beyond 24 weeks up to a maximum of 48 weeks. As patients≥12 y to <18 y (Group 1) are already being included in trial [CRUXOLITINIBC2301], and treated with 10 mg BID, this dose is the recommended phase II dose (RP2D), and will be used to treat all patients in this age group. For the Ph II, all other age groups will be treated with the RP2D determined during the Ph I. Therefore, all≥12 to <18 year old patients will automatically be enrolled in Phase II. It is planned that the first 5 patients treated in Group 1 will undergo extensive PK sampling to inform the RP2D determination of the younger age groups in the Ph I. Additional patients may undergo extensive sampling should one or more of the first 5 not be evaluable.
Phase I
Patients will be enrolled into 4 groups, based on age, to allow appropriate dosing based on available data Table 2.
Subjects eligible for inclusion in this study must meet all of the following criteria:
1. Male or female patients age≥28 days and <18 years at the time of informed consent.
2. Patients who have undergone alloSCT from any donor source (matched unrelated donor, sibling, haplo-identical) using bone marrow, peripheral blood stem cells, or cord blood. Recipients of myeloablative or reduced intensity conditioning are eligible.
3. Patients with a clinically confirmed diagnosis of grades II-IV aGvHD within 48 hours prior to study treatment start. Patients may have either:
Treatment-naïve grades II-IV aGvHD as per Harris et al 2016.
OR
Steroid refractory grades II-IV aGvHD as per institutional criteria, and the patient is currently receiving systemic corticosteroids.
4. Evident myeloid engraftment with absolute neutrophil count (ANC)>1000/μl and platelet count>20,0000. (Use of growth factor supplementation and transfusion support is allowed.)
5. Able to swallow study medication.
6. Written Study Informed consent and/or assent from the patient, parent, or guardian at the time of Screening, i.e. at the time of treatment-naïve aGvHD or steroid refractory aGvHD diagnosis.
Exclusion Criteria
Subjects meeting any of the following criteria are not eligible for inclusion in this study.
1. Has received the following systemic therapy for aGvHD:
a. Treatment-naïve aGvHD patients have received any prior systemic treatment of aGvHD except for a maximum 72 h of prior systemic corticosteroid therapy of methylprednisolone or equivalent after the onset of acute GvHD. Patients are allowed to have received prior GvHD prophylaxis which is not counted as systemic treatment (as long as the prophylaxis was started prior to the diagnosis of aGvHD);
OR
b. SR-aGvHD patients have received two or more prior systemic treatment for aGvHD in addition to corticosteroids.
2. Clinical presentation resembling de novo chronic GvHD or GvHD overlap syndrome with both acute and chronic GvHD features (as defined by Jagasia et al 2015).
3. Failed prior alloSCT within the past 6 months.
4. Presence of clinically active uncontrolled infection including significant bacterial, fungal, viral or parasitic infection requiring treatment. Infections are considered controlled if appropriate therapy has been instituted and, at the time of screening, no signs of progression are present. Progression of infection is defined as hemodynamic instability attributable to sepsis, new symptoms, worsening physical signs or radiographic findings attributable to infection. Persisting fever without other signs or symptoms will not be interpreted as progressing infection.
5. Evidence of uncontrolled Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) or Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) based on assessment of treating physician.
6. Evidence of clinically active tuberculosis (clinical diagnosis per local practice; skin testing is not required as not informative due to anergy).
7. Known human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV).
8. Presence of relapsed primary malignancy, or who have been treated for relapse after the alloSCT was performed, or who require withdrawal of immune suppression as pre-emergent treatment of early malignancy relapse.
9. Acute GvHD occurring after non-scheduled DLI administered for pre-emptive treatment of malignancy recurrence. Note: Patients who have received a scheduled DLI as part of their transplant procedure and not for management of malignancy relapse are eligible.
10. Significant respiratory disease including patients who are on mechanical ventilation or who have resting O2 saturation<90% by pulse-oximetry on room-air.
11. Presence of severely impaired renal function (confirmed within 72 hrs prior to study treatment start) defined by:
OR
12. Clinically significant or uncontrolled cardiac disease including any of the following:
13. Cholestatic disorders, or unresolved sinusoidal obstructive syndrome/veno-occlusive disease of the liver (defined as persistent bilirubin abnormalities not attributable to aGvHD and ongoing organ dysfunction).
14. History of bone disorders such as osteogenesis imperfecta, rickets, renal osteodystrophy, osteomyelitis, osteopenia, fibrous dysplasia, osteomalacia etc. prior to the underlying diagnosis which resulted in the alloSCT.
15. History of endocrine or kidney related growth retardation prior to the underlying diagnosis which resulted in the alloSCT.
16. Any corticosteroid therapy for indications other than aGvHD at doses>1 mg/kg/day methylprednisolone (or equivalent prednisone dose 1.25 mg/kg/day) within 7 days of Screening. Routine corticosteroids administered during conditioning or cell infusion is allowed.
17. Current therapy with medications that interfere with coagulation or platelet function including but not limited to aspirin and related drugs, heparin, and warfarin (to minimize risk of bleeding). Note: Heparin or Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) is allowed if used at sub-therapeutic dose for e.g., prophylaxis of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome/veno-occlusive disease of the liver.
18. History of progressive multifocal leuko-encephalopathy (PML).
19. Patients who received JAK inhibitor therapy for any indication after initiation of current alloSCT conditioning.
20. Investigational treatment within 30 days prior to treatment initiation or within 5 half-lives of the investigational product, whichever is greater.
21. Any condition that would, in the Investigator's judgment, interfere with full participation in the study, including administration of study treatment and attending required study visits; pose a significant risk to the patient; or interfere with interpretation of study data.
22. Known allergies, hypersensitivity, or intolerance to systemic immunosuppressive therapy or ruxolitinib (or any of its excipients).
23. Female patients who are pregnant or breast feeding.
24. Female patients of childbearing potential (e.g., are menstruating) who do not agree to abstinence or, if sexually active, do not agree to the use of contraception.
The study treatment will be administered as a 5 mg tablet or as an oral pediatric formulation (taken in liquid form) twice a day for all patients.
In addition to study treatment, patients may receive standard alloSCT supportive care including anti-infective medications and transfusion support. Continued use of systemic corticosteroids, CNI (cyclosporine or tacrolimus), and topical corticosteroid therapy per institutional guidelines is permitted. Other systemic medications used for prophylaxis of aGvHD may be continued after Day 1 only if prior to diagnosis of aGvHD. For SR-aGvHD patients, cessation of other systemic treatment for aGvHD other than corticosteroids+/− CNI will be required prior to treatment initiation.
The Investigator will instruct the patient to take the study treatment as per protocol.
All dosages prescribed and dispensed to the patient and all dose changes during the study must be recorded on the Dosage Administration Record Case Report Form (CRF).
Ruxolitinib will be administered orally twice per day at the assigned starting doses based on age group, given as 5-mg tablets or equivalent dose as oral pediatric formulation. Ruxolitinib (tablet or oral pediatric formulation) should be taken approximately 12 hours apart (morning and night) without regards to food. Ruxolitinib will be administered by hospital personnel in an inpatient setting, or self-administered by the patient in an outpatient setting.
Patients should be instructed not to take study treatment at home on the days of the scheduled pre-dose blood collection. Dosing will be administered after pre-dose blood collection at these visits.
Starting dose as assigned on Day 1 based on age may not be increased even if a patient enters the next subsequent age group during the treatment period.
Chronic graft vs. host disease (cGvHD) pathophysiology begins with activation of host antigen-presenting cells (APC) expressed by damaged tissues and/or pathogens (Dhir et al 2014). Activated host APC then present host antigens to donor immune cells, leading to donor T-cell proliferation and inflammatory cytokine production. These inflammatory cytokines then recruit and induce proliferation of additional immune effector cells, thereby perpetuating an adverse cycle of allo reactive tissue injury and inflammation (Paczesny et al 2010). This signaling cascade in cGvHD determined in the mouse model and adult subjects with cGvHD, is expected to be the same in pediatric subjects<12 years of age as compared to subjects≥12 years of age. Ruxolitinib has been shown to lower pro-inflammatory cytokines in MF patients. In addition, pre-clinical data support the mechanism of action of ruxolitinib in GvHD to: i.) impair APC function, ii.) inhibit donor T cell proliferation, iii.) suppress adverse cytokine production, and iv.) improve survival and disease manifestations in GvHD mouse models (Parampalli Yajnanarayana et al 2015) (Heine et al 2013) (Spoerl et al 2014). Published data have shown evidence of clinical efficacy with ruxolitinib treatment when added to immunosuppressive therapy in subjects with SR-cGvHD (Zeiser et al 2015) (Boiko et al 2017).
Clinical studies using ruxolitinib alone or in comparison to best available therapy are currently underway in the SR-cGvHD setting for adult subjects and adolescents 12 years of age. Despite children being at a lower risk of developing cGvHD than adults (Baird et al 2010), the incidence of cGvHD in the pediatric population is substantial and has increased recently in association with the expanded use of peripheral blood stem cells and unrelated donors (Zecca et al 2002). The treatment of moderate to severe cGvHD in pediatrics is highly variable and mostly extrapolated from the experience in adults. While there is no proven “standard therapy,” corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) are commonly employed as frontline therapy.
Similar to the adults, there are limited treatment options for moderate to severe cGvHD including systemic corticosteroids as initial standard of care for pediatric patients. With only 30% to 50% of the children responding to use of corticosteroids, there is a high unmet medical need for optimal initial and second-line therapies in the pediatric population (Wolff et al 2011). Furthermore, children who respond to initial immunosuppressive treatment, most likely corticosteroids, require it for prolonged periods, consequently having debilitating persistent and irreversible impact on overall health and quality of life (Fraser et al 2006).
Given available data (presented above), in the current setting of a lack of effective first- or second-line treatments for pediatric cGvHD, this study aims to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety and activity of ruxolitinib treatment in pediatric subjects (age 28 days to <18 years) with treatment-naive cGvHD or SR-cGvHD. It is expected that ruxolitinib will provide higher rates of disease response compared to steroids+/−Calcineurin Inhibitors (CNI) alone as upfront treatment of moderate to severe cGvHD. It is further expected that this response will be durable during steroid taper, representing a meaningful clinical benefit for pediatric subjects. Expected meaningful clinical benefits among those treated with ruxolitinib include it's steroid sparing effect, reducing the proportion of pediatric subjects experiencing flares during steroid tapering, reducing proportion of subjects with infections and severity of infections, reducing hospitalization duration and requirement for re-admission, and maintenance of graft vs. malignancy effect.
This open-label, single-arm, Phase II multi-center study will investigate the activity, pharmacokinetics and safety of ruxolitinib added to the subject's immunosuppressive regimen among infants, children, and adolescents aged≥28 days to <18 years old with either moderate to severe treatment-naive cGvHD or SR-cGvHD. Approximately 42 subjects will be enrolled in this study. Subjects will be grouped according to their age as follows: Group 1 includes subjects≥12 y to <18 y, Group 2 includes subjects≥6 y to <12 y, Group 3 includes subjects≥2 y to <6 y, and Group 4 includes subjects≥28 days to <2 y. Subjects will remain in the age group throughout the study based on the age at the time of start of treatment. Enrollment initiation into the youngest age group, Group 4, will be subject to the availability of data in this age group from study in Example 3, as well as a review of available PK, safety, and activity data generated from Groups 1 to 3 in the current study, in consultation with the data monitoring committee (DMC) and a final decision by the Sponsor. At least 5 evaluable subjects per Group are needed for the primary analysis in Groups 1, 2 and 3. No minimum number of evaluable subjects are needed in Group 4.
After a screening period from Day −28 to Day −1, eligible subjects will begin the investigational treatment (ruxolitinib) on Cycle 1 Day 1 and will be treated for up to a maximum of 3 years (39 cycles/week 156) or until early discontinuation. Subjects who discontinue ruxolitinib for any reason earlier than 39 cycles will be followed every 6 months until 3 years from their first dose of ruxolitinib is reached. All subjects continuing to receive ruxolitinib treatment benefit following 3 years of treatment will be given the possibility to continue ruxolitinib outside the study, from another source, where permitted in accordance to local laws and regulations.
The ruxolitinib dose is based on the preliminary efficacy and safety data generated with this dose in subjects with steroid-refractory graft vs. host disease (SR-GvHD) (Zeiser et al 2015), and based on PK/safety data generated from the Phase III trials CRUXOLITINIBC2301 and CRUXOLITINIBD2301. As subjects≥12 y to <18 y are already being treated with 10 mg BID in CRUXOLITINIBD2301, this dose is the recommended phase II dose (RP2D), and will be used to treat all subjects in this age group.
Pediatric subjects enrolled in the pediatric aGvHD study in Example 3 will provide PK data that will be used to confirm the adequacy of the doses described above and thus patients<12 years will only be enrolled in Groups 2 to 4 in the current study once the dose is confirmed in the appropriate age group. If a different dose is confirmed in the pediatric aGvHD study in Example 3, the dose will need to be adjusted accordingly in the current study. Subjects enrolled in the adult aGvHD study and cGvHD study may also provide PK data that will be used as additional information to confirm adequacy of this dose.
The Study Design for this trial is illustrated by
Subjects eligible for inclusion in this study must meet all of the following criteria:
1. Male or female subjects age 28 days and <18 years at the time of informed consent.
2. Subjects who have undergone a successful alloSCT from any donor source (matched unrelated donor, sibling, haplo-identical) using bone marrow, peripheral blood stem cells, or cord blood. Recipients of myeloablative or reduced intensity conditioning are eligible.
3. Subjects with diagnosed moderate to severe cGvHD according to NIH 2014 Consensus Criteria prior to Cycle 1 Day 1. Other possible diagnoses for clinical symptoms supporting the cGvHD diagnosis must be excluded (e.g. infection, drug side effects, malignancy). Subjects must be either:
OR
4. Able to swallow study medication.
5. Written study informed consent (and assent if appropriate) from the subject and/or parent/legal guardian
Subjects meeting any of the following criteria are not eligible for inclusion in this study.
1. SR-cGvHD subjects with a prior cGvHD treatment with a JAK1- or a JAK2- or a JAK1/2-inhibitor are not allowed, except when the subject achieved complete or partial response and has been off JAK inhibitor treatment for at least 4 weeks prior to Cycle 1 Day 1, or up to 5 times the half-life of the prior JAK inhibitor, whichever is longer.
2. Subjects who initiated systemic calcineurin inhibitors (CNI; cyclosporine or tacrolimus) within 3 weeks prior to the start of ruxolitinib on Cycle 1 Day 1. Note: Systemic CNI are allowed when initiated>3 weeks from start of ruxolitinib.
3. Failed prior alloSCT within the past 6 months; subjects with relapsed primary malignancy, or who have been treated for relapse after the alloSCT was performed, or who require withdrawal of immune suppression as pre-emergent treatment of early malignancy relapse.
4. Significant respiratory disease including subjects who are on mechanical ventilation or who have a resting oxygen saturation<90% by pulse-oximetry on room-air.
5. Impairment of gastrointestinal (GI) function (unrelated to GvHD) or GI disease (unrelated to GvHD) that may significantly alter the absorption of oral ruxolitinib (e.g., ulcerative diseases, uncontrolled nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, malabsorption syndrome or small bowel resection).
6. Cholestatic disorders, or unresolved sinusoidal obstructive syndrome/veno-occlusive disease of the liver (defined as persistent bilirubin abnormalities not attributable to cGvHD and ongoing organ dysfunction).
7. Presence of clinically active uncontrolled infection including significant bacterial, fungal, viral or parasitic infection requiring treatment. Infections are considered controlled if appropriate therapy has been instituted and, at the time of screening, no signs of progression are present. Progression of infection is defined as hemodynamic instability attributable to sepsis, new symptoms, worsening physical signs or radiographic findings attributable to infection. Persisting fever without other signs or symptoms will not be interpreted as progressing infection.
8. Known human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
9. Evidence of uncontrolled hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) based on assessment done by Investigator or delegate.
10. cGvHD occurring after a non-scheduled donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) administered for pre-emptive treatment of malignancy recurrence. Subjects who have received a scheduled DLI as part of their transplant procedure and not for management of malignancy relapse are eligible.
11. Any condition that would, in the investigator's judgment, interfere with full participation in the study, including administration of study drug and attending required study visits; pose a significant risk to the subject; or interfere with interpretation of study data.
12. Known allergies, hypersensitivity, or intolerance to any of the study medications, excipients, or similar compounds.
13. History of bone disorders such as osteogenesis imperfecta, rickets, renal osteodystrophy, osteomyelitis, osteopenia, fibrous dysplasia, osteomalacia etc. prior to the underlying diagnosis which resulted in the alloSCT.
14. History of endocrine or kidney related growth retardation prior to the underlying diagnosis which resulted in the alloSCT.
15. Female adolescent subjects who are pregnant or breast feeding.
16. Female subjects of childbearing potential (e.g., are menstruating) who do not agree to abstinence, or, if sexually active, do not agree to use highly effective contraception.
17. Evidence of clinically active tuberculosis (clinical diagnosis per local practice)
18. Any corticosteroid therapy for indications other than cGvHD at doses>1 mg/kg/day methylprednisolone (or equivalent prednisone dose 1.25 mg/kg/day) within 7 days of the screening visit.
19. Current therapy with medications that interfere with coagulation or platelet function including but not limited to aspirin and related drugs, heparin, and warfarin (to minimize risk of bleeding). Note: Heparin or Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) is allowed if used at sub-therapeutic dose for e.g., prophylaxis of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome/veno-occlusive disease of the liver.
20. Subject is receiving fluconazole at daily doses higher than 200 mg.
21. Subject is receiving and does not agree to stop herbal preparations/medications. These herbal medications include, but are not limited to, St. John's Wort, Kava, ephedra (ma huang), gingko biloba, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), yohimbe, saw palmetto, and ginseng. Subjects must stop using herbal medications at least 7 days prior to first dose of study treatment.
22. History of progressive multifocal leuko-encephalopathy (PML).
23. Investigational treatment within 30 days prior to treatment initiation or within 5 half-lives of the investigational product, whichever is greater.
24. Presence of severely impaired renal function (confirmed within 72 h prior to ruxolitinib start) defined by:
or
25. Serious comorbid diseases as per investigator judgement
26. Life expectancy of less than 1 month as per investigator judgement.
27. Clinically significant or uncontrolled cardiac disease, including any of the following:
Study treatment includes:
Ruxolitinib will be administered as a 5 mg ruxolitinib tablet or as ruxolitinib oral pediatric formulation twice a day.
In addition to study treatment, subjects may receive standard alloSCT supportive care including anti-infective medications and transfusion support.
Systemic immunosuppressive medications used for the prophylaxis of cGvHD may be continued after Cycle 1 Day 1 if initiated prior to diagnosis of cGvHD. Systemic CNIs may be continued after Cycle 1 Day 1 if initiated at least 3 weeks prior to the start of ruxolitinib, i.e. at Cycle 1 Day 1. CNI should be used at standard dosing and adjusted to therapeutic trough levels. Continued use of topical corticosteroid therapy for cGvHD per institutional guidelines are permitted. For SR-cGvHD subjects, cessation of other systemic treatment for cGvHD other than corticosteroids+/− CNI will be required prior to ruxolitinib initiation.
The Investigator will instruct the subject to take the investigational treatment as per protocol.
All dosages prescribed and dispensed to the subject and all dose changes during the study must be recorded on the Dosage Administration Record electronic case report form (CRF).
Ruxolitinib will be administered orally twice per day at the assigned dose based on age group, given as 5 mg tablets or equivalent dose as oral pediatric formulation. Ruxolitinib (tablet or oral pediatric formulation) should be taken approximately 12 hours apart (morning and night) without regards to food. Ruxolitinib will be administered by Investigator or delegate, or self-administered by the subject or parent/legal guardian in an outpatient setting.
Subjects should be instructed not to take ruxolitinib at home on the days of the scheduled pre-dose blood collection for PK and biomarker samples. Dosing will be administered after pre-dose blood collection at these visits.
The ruxolitinib dose as assigned on Cycle 1 Day 1 (based on age) must not be changed until the subject completes the Cycle 7 Day 1 visit assessments, unless dose adjustments are needed to manage safety events. After Cycle 7 Day 1, the Investigator must re-evaluate the assigned ruxolitinib dose based on the subject's age and/or growth. Dosing based on growth should be adjusted if the newly calculated dose is a >10% change from the previously calculated dose. All dose changes must be recorded on the Dosage Administration Record electronic case report form (eCRF).
A. Objections
This example contains stability data for:
Technical batches variant 001 stability data of ruxolitinib 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL solution covering storage period up to 6 months, and technical batches variant 002 stability data of ruxolitinib 5 mg/mL (891147, 891148) for up to 24 months.
Clinical batch variant 002 stability data of ruxolitinib 5 mg/mL solution (891147) covering storage period up to 12 months data, in-use study 42 days and freeze and thaw study covering days up to 28 days.
The technical batches studied are tabulated in Table 14 and the clinical batch studies are tabulated in Table 28. Ruxolitinib is a BCS class I compound. Current solution formulation is an RUXOLITINIB water base solution with common preservatives and flavors with/without sucrose.
The development stability report DSR2810 (5.0) applies to RUXOLITINIB 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL solution formulation technical batches and clinical batches.
1 Novartis internal reference system
2Not applicable
B. Specifications of Drug Product
The analytical specifications are laid down in the current specifications for clinical development AS2810.
C. Stability Studies
Description of Packaging
1 Without sucrose formulation
2 With sucrose formulation
3 Without sucrose formulation
4 With sucrose formulation
5 With propylene glyocol, methyl paraben and propyl paraben
6Novartis internal reference system
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1, 3, 6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1,
3,
6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1,
3,
6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1,
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
1,
3,
6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1,
3,
6, 9, 12, 18, 24
1,
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold
Initial,
45
2
,
3,
6,
9,
12,
18,
24, 36
Initial,
45
2
3,
6,
9,
12,
18,
24, 36
Initial,
45
2
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
245 days
Initial,
45
2
3,
6,
9,
12,
18,
24, 36
Initial,
45
2
3,
6,
9,
12,
18,
24, 36
Initial,
45
2
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
245 days
30
days,
42
days
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
30
days,
42
days
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
28
days
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
6W
2
3,
6,
9,
12, 18, 24, 36
6W
2
3,
6,
9,
12, 18, 24, 36
3,
6,
9,
12
6W
2
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
26 Weeks
6W
2
,
3,
6,
9,
12, 18, 24, 36
3,
6,
9,
12,
18, 24, 36
3,
6,
9,
12
6W
2
,
3,
6
1The tested pull points are shown in bold.
26 Weeks
Freeze and Thaw Cycle Test
This test was performed with one clinical batch (5 mg/mL, batch: 2034827) packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container. The stability samples were stored for four complete freeze and thaw cycles (−20° C./ambient RH for 6 days, followed by 1 day at 25° C./60% RH). Samples were taken after 28 days and analyzed. The results for the freeze and thaw cycle test for 5 mg/mL (140 mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container is considered the worst case (with the larger headspace) and will also apply to the 5 mg/mL (60 mL) BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container.
This test was performed with one technical batch (5 mg/mL, batch H0004) packaged in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and one clinical batch (5 mg/mL, batch 2034827) packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container.
Both the technical and clinical batches were stored at 25° C./60% RH up to 42 days and analyzed.
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for technical batch no: H0004 (60 mL)/(5 mg/mL) and H0004 (140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE respectively are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at 5° C./ambient RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 24 months.
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for technical batch no: H0004 (60 mL)/(5 mg/mL) and H0004 (140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE respectively are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at long term condition 25° C./60% RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 24 months.
Testing at 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for technical batch no: H0004 (60 mL)/(5 mg/mL) and H0004 (140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE respectively there was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at accelerated condition 40° C./75% RH.
For both batches H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) in 6 month analysis OOS results were observed for degradation products. For batch no: H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) an unspecified impurity RRT 0.33 at 0.6% and 0.7% level results were observed respectively. During root cause investigation it was determined to be preservative related degradation. For more details refer AQWA #2184230. Also, for 6 months analysis of both H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) the 536-11 degradation product was observed at 0.4% level respectively. Although these do not exceed the early phase limits set in the current specification, the increase needs to be monitored.
All other results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
In-Use Study
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
This test was performed with one technical batch: H0004 (60 mL) packaged in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container. Samples were stored at 25° C./60% RH up to 42 days in open bottles and analyzed.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance at 42 days.
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright_ (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at 5° C./ambient RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Long Term Condition at 25 Degree C./60 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation 25° C./60% RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Testing at 30 Degree C./75 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright_ (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation 30° C./75% RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Testing at 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright results there was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at accelerated condition 40° C./75% RH.
In degradation products 6 months analysis OOS results were observed an unspecified impurity RRT at 0.33 min 0.3% and 0.7% level results were observed. During root cause investigation it was determined to be preservative related degradation. For more details refer AQWA #2338758. Also, the 536-11 degradation product was observed at 0.5% level.
All other results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted_(5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation (5 mg/mL) at 5° C./ambient RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Long Term Condition at 25 Degree C./60 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation 25° C./60% RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Testing at 30 Degree C./75 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content, degradation products and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation 30° C./75% RH.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance up to 12 months.
Testing at 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted (5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained for clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)/(5 mg/mL) BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted results are well within specifications. There was no significant change in pH values, enantiomer content and assay values of RUXOLITINIB, methyl paraben and propyl paraben for the formulation 40° C./75% RH.
For degradation products at 3 months and 6 months analysis, 536-11 results were observed at 0.2% and 0.5% level respectively. Although these do not exceed the early phase limits set in the current specification, the increase needs to be monitored.
All other results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (Placebo, 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL Dosage)
Only Assay of methyl paraben and Assay of Potassium sorbate were tested and all the other physical and chemical parameters were not tested for placebo samples during stability study.
The assay values of methyl paraben and API in all tested samples didn't change significantly when the samples were stored at 5° C./ambient RH. The assay value of potassium sorbate didn't change in 5 mg/mL sugar formulation samples (T112 1215), slightly decreased from 99.3% (0-time) to 93.5% (6M) in 5 mg/mL non-sugar formulation samples (T110 1215), and significantly decreased from 94.8% (0-time) to 83.3% (6 Months) in 1 mg/mL non-sugar formulation samples. In 1 mg/mL sugar formulation samples (T111 1215), the assay value of potassium sorbate are drop around and not a stability indicator. However, the assay values of potassium sorbate decreased significantly. At 6M time point, the contents of potassium sorbate became 25% in 1 mg/mL non-sugar placebo and 48% in 5 mg/mL sugar placebo. As comparison, the decreasing of potassium sorbate was slower in sugar-formulation than that in non-sugar formulation. Three degradation products with RRT 0.42, 0.43, and 0.48 were observed at 0.1% level in 1 mg/mL non-sugar sample at 1M but only the peak with RRT 0.42 was observed at 0.1% through stability time points. A degradation peak at RRT 0.59 was observed in 1 mg/mL sugar formulation at 0.1% level at 1 month and increased to 0.2% at 3 month. No degradation peak above 0.1% in 5 mg/mL both sugar and non-sugar samples.
There was no change in the appearance and pH in all the samples up to 6 months.
All results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
BO_300BR (1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL Dosage)
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, impurity profile, enantiomer, pH, and appearance, except assay value of potassium sorbate of 1 mg/mL sugar formulation at 6 M. The content of potassium sorbate in 1 mg/mL sugar formulation didn't change up to 3 M but it sharply dropped to 79.5% at 6M. No degradation product was observed above reporting threshold (0.1%).
All results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
Accelerated Testing (25 Degree C./60 Percent RH)
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (Placebo, 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL Dosage)
For placebo samples, only Assay of methyl paraben and Assay of Potassium sorbate were tested and all the other physical and chemical parameters were not tested during stability study.
No significant changes were observed on pH values, enantiomer content and the assay values of RUXOLITINIB and methyl paraben. Potassium sorbate decreased significantly during storage especially in placebo. At 6M time point, the contents of potassium sorbate became 12% in 1 mg/mL non-sugar placebo and 24% in 5 mg/mL sugar placebo. Potassium sorbate also decreased in all sample batches but not as fast as that in placebo. The assay of potassium sorbate specification is ‘for information only’.
An impurity at RRT 0.43 at 0.1% level was only observed in T109 1215 (1 mg/mL no sucrose formulation) 3 month sample. An impurity at RRT 0.48 was observed in the same batch after 1 month sample, but not in 3 months and 6 months samples. An impurity at 0.2% level with RRT 0.59 was observed in T111 1215 (1 mg/mL sucrose formulation) 1 month sample, not in 3 months sample, but at 0.3% level in 6 month sample. No degradation product was observed above 0.1% in both 5 mg/mL formulations. T1091 1215 and T111 1215 appearance remained clear and colorless up to 3 months, but at 6 months clarity is clear and color is matching with ‘Y5’ (Light yellow) for batch number T109 1215 and clarity is matching with Opalescence standard IV(As per Ph. Eur) and color remains colorless for batch number T111 1215. The color of T110 1215 (5 mg/mL non-sucrose formulation) match with ‘Y4’(Yellow) at 3 and 6 months and clarity remains clear up to 6 months. The color of T112 1215 (5 mg/mL sucrose formulation) matches with ‘Y5’(Light yellow) at 3 and 6 months and clarity remains clear up to 6 months. However, no degradation product was detected above reporting threshold (0.1%) in these samples.
All results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
BO_300BR (1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL Dosage)
All the results obtained in BO_300BR are very similar or slightly better than those in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE. There was no significant changes on pH values, enantiomer content and the assay values of RUXOLITINIB and methyl paraben, and assay value of potassium sorbate of two non-sugar formulations (both 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL) Potassium sorbate decreased significantly during storage in sugar formulation batches. However, the assay of potassium sorbate specification is ‘for information only’.
T109 1215, T111 1215, and T110 1215 appearance remained colorless up to 3 months, but at 6 months the color change with ‘Y5’ (light yellow) for batch number T111 1215 and clarity remains clear for all three batches upto 6 months. For batch number T112 1215 the clarity remains clear upto 6 months, but the color is colorless upto lmonth and at 3 months color matches with ‘Y5’ (light yellow), at 6 months color matches with ‘Y4’ (Yellow). No degradation product was observed above RT (0.1%). All results remained within the specification limits.
Testing at 40 degree C./75 percent RH
BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (Placebo, 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL dosage)
For placebo samples, only Assay of methyl paraben and Assay of Potassium sorbate were tested and all the other physical and chemical parameters were not tested during stability study. Except color change and degradation profile, all the other physical and chemical testing results of the samples stored at 40° C./75% RH were very similar to those of the samples stored at 25° C./60% RH. As expected, the decreasing of potassium sorbate in the samples stored at 40° C./75% RH was faster than that at 25° C./60% RH. However, the assay of potassium sorbate specification is ‘for information only’.
The degradation profiles of most samples stored at 40° C./75% RH were the same as those at 25° C./60% RH. The only difference is that the impurities 536-11 and 537-11 were detected in T110 1215 lmonth sample. The color of T110 1215 and T112 1215 became yellowish at lmonth. No color changes were observed in T109 1215 and T111 1215 up to 3 months and yellow color change was observed at 6 months.
All results (physical and chemical) remained within the specification limits for these batches.
BO_300BR (1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL dosage)
Except color change, all the other physical and chemical testing results of the samples stored at 40° C./75% RH were very similar to those of the samples stored at 25° C./60% RH. The color of T111 1215 became yellowish at 3 and 6 months. All results remained within the specification limits.
Clinical Batches
In-Use Study
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
This test was performed with one clinical batch: 2034827(140 mL) packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container. Samples were stored at 25° C./60% RH up to 42 days in open bottles and analyzed.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance at 42 days.
Freeze and Thaw Cycle Test (20 Degree C./Ambient RH/25 Degree C./60 Percent RH 28 Days) (5 mg/mL Dosage)
BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE (5 mg/mL Dosage)
This test was performed with one clinical batch: 2034827(140 mL) packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE container. Samples were cycled at 20° C./ambient RH/25° C./60% RH up to 28 days and analyzed.
There is no significant change on all testing physical and chemical properties, which included assay of active and preservatives, degradation products, enantiomer, pH, and appearance at 28 days.
E. Conclusions
RUXOLITINIB solution formulation (891147, 891148) display an overall good stability behavior for 5 mg/mL for the technical batch: H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) when packaged in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE respectively and stored up to 24 months at long term condition of 25° C./60% RH, 3 months at accelerated condition of 40° C./75% RH and 24 months at 5° C./RH. All the tested parameters remained well within the proposed specifications at all tested conditions.
At 40° C./75% RH condition 6 months for both batches H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) OOS results were observed for degradation products. In batch no: H0004 (60 mL) and H0004 (140 mL) an unspecified impurity RRT 0.33 at 0.6% and 0.7% level results were observed respectively. During root cause investigation it was determined to be preservative related degradation. For more details refer AQWA #2184230. Also, the 536-11 degradation product was observed at 0.4% level and needs to be monitored.
RUXOLITINIB solution formulation (891147) display an overall good stability behavior for 5 mg/mL for the clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)_5 mg/mL when packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Upright (Orientation) stored up to 12 months at long term condition of 25° C./60% RH, 3 months at accelerated condition of 40° C./75% RH, 12 months at 30° C./75% RH and 12 months at 5° C./RH. All the tested parameters remained well within the proposed specifications at all tested conditions.
At 40° C./75% RH condition 6 months for the batch: 2034827 (140 mL)_Upright (Orientation), OOS results were observed for degradation products. In batch no: 2034827 (140 mL)_Upright an unspecified impurity RRT 0.33 at 0.7% results were observed. During root cause investigation it was determined to be preservative related degradation. For more details refer AQWA #2338758. Also, the 536-11 degradation product was observed at 0.5% level and needs to be monitored.
RUXOLITINIB solution formulation (891147) display an overall good stability behavior for 5 mg/mL for the clinical batch no: 2034827(140 mL)_5 mg/mL when packaged in BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE_Inverted stored up to 12 months at long term condition of 25° C./60% RH, 12 months at 30° C./75% RH and 12 months at 5° C./RH. All the tested parameters remained well within the proposed specifications at all tested conditions.
At 40° C./75% RH condition at 3 months and 6 months analysis for batch: 2034827 (140 mL)_Inverted, 536-11 degradation product results were observed at 0.2% and 0.5% level respectively. Although these do not exceed the early phase limits set in the current specification, the increase needs to be monitored.
RUXOLITINIB solution formulation (891147, 891148) technical batch: H0004 (60 mL) and clinical batch 2034827(140 mL) were found to be chemically and physically stable for up to 42 days which support an in-use period of 42 days when stored in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE and BO_300_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE containers respectively.
Based on the available stability data 25° C./60% RH at 24 months and 40° C./75% RH at 3 months for 5 mg/mL for the technical batch: H0004 (60 mL) and H0004(140 mL) variants 002, the drug product storage is proposed as ‘Do not store above 25° C.’, shelf life is proposed as ‘24’ months. Moreover, Clinical batch: 2034827_Upright (140 mL) stability data 25° C./60% RH at 12 months, 30° C./75% RH at 12 months and 40° C./75% RH at 3 months data as well as the clinical batch 2034827 Inverted (140 mL) stability data 25° C./60% RH at 12 months, 30° C./75% RH at 12 months and 40° C./75% RH at 3 months data also supports proposed shelf life of “24” months. Based on the stability data at 40° C./75% RH, 3 month (variants 002), the transport category is assigned ‘TEMPCONTROL’.
Except appearance and assay value of potassium sorbate, all the other chemical and physical testing results obtained from technical batches (variants 001) demonstrate that RUXOLITINIB 1 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL solution formulation are stable when stored at 40° C./75% RH (accelerated condition), 25° C./60% RH (long-term storage condition), and 5° C./ambient RH (refrigeration condition) up to 6 months when packaged in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE or BO_300BR. The appearance of tested samples was unchanged up to 6 month at 5° C./ambient RH (refrigeration condition). The color change was observed when storage at 25° C./60% RH and 40° C./75% RH. It was noticed that for the same formulation and the sample dosage strength, the samples packed in BO_300BR have better results than those in BO_125_AMBER_CR_CLOSURE. The color change of sugar formulation was faster than non-sugar formulation and the 5 mg/mL dosage strength was faster than 1 mg/mL dosage strength. All the testing physical and chemical properties which included enantiomer, assay of active ingredient, degradation products were remained within the specification limits up to 6 months.
F. Technical Stability Results
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH, 25 Degree C./60 Percent RH and 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
Chemical and Physical Data: H0004 (60 mL)
0.61
0.61
1OOS results observed for details refer to AQWA#2184230
0.71
0.71
1OOS results observed for details refer to AQWA#2184230.
G. Special Tests
Freeze and Thaw Cycle Test
In-Use Study
H. Clinical Stability Results
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH, 25 Degree C./60 Percent RH, 30 Degree C./75 Percent RH and 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
Chemical and Physical Data: 2034827 (140 mL) Upright
0.72
1Initial data considered from release analysis
2OOS results observed for details refer to AQWA#2338758
Chemical and physical data: 2034827 (140 mL) Inverted
1Initial data considered from release analysis
Stability Results
Testing at 5 Degree C./Ambient RH, 25 Degree C./60 Percent RH and 40 Degree C./75 Percent RH
Placebo Solution
1. Chemical and Physical Data: T010 0216
1For information only, there is no limit, however formulation discontinued.
1Optional tests
1Optional tests
BO_125 AMBER_CR_CLOSURE
Chemical and Physical Data
1For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342
1OOS is observed due to mis-labelling, for details refer to AQWA # 1548736.
2For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342
3OOS is observed due to mis-labelling, for details refer to AQWA # 1615459 and product deviation #1628150.
1For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342
<RT3
<RT3
1 Reanalysis results are reports, for details refer AQWA # 1567835
2For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342.
3OOE is observed, for details refer AQWA # 1617159.
BO_300BR
Chemical and Physical Data
1For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342.
1For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342.
1 Reanalysis results are reports, for details refer AQWA # 1567835.
2For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342.
1 Reanalysis results are reports, for details refer AQWA # 1572599.
2For enantiomer test flow rate is not followed as per test method (1.0 ml/minute is followed instead of 0.8 ml/min), for details refer to deviation # 1618342
Microbiological Data
Escherichia coli
1MET failed, for details refer deviation # 1606983
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 202011026726 | Jun 2020 | IN | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IN2021/050604 | 6/22/2021 | WO |
