1
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole)
Capsules
BOXED WARNING
Congestive Heart Failure, Cardiac Effects and Drug Interactions
Congestive Heart Failure and Cardiac Effects:
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules should not be administered for the treatment
of onychomycosis in patients with evidence of ventricular dysfunction such as
congestive heart failure (CHF) or a history of CHF. If signs or symptoms of
congestive heart failure occur during administration of SPORANOX
®
Capsules,
discontinue administration.
When itraconazole was administered intravenously to dogs and healthy human
volunteers, negative inotropic effects were seen. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS,
WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions, ADVERSE REACTIONS:
Post-marketing Experience, and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special
Populations for more information.)
Drug Interactions:
Coadministration of a number of CYP3A4 substrates are contraindicated with
SPORANOX
®
. Some examples of drugs that are contraindicated for
coadministration with SPORANOX
®
Capsules are: methadone, disopyramide,
dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine, isavuconazole, ergot alkaloids (such as
dihydroergotamine, ergometrine (ergonovine), ergotamine, methylergometrine
(methylergonovine)), irinotecan, lurasidone, oral midazolam, pimozide, triazolam,
felodipine, nisoldipine, ivabradine, ranolazine, eplerenone, cisapride, naloxegol,
lomitapide, lovastatin, simvastatin, avanafil, ticagrelor, finerenone, voclosporin.
Coadministration with colchicine, fesoterodine and solifenacin is contraindicated in
subjects with varying degrees of renal or hepatic impairment.
Coadministration with eliglustat is contraindicated in subjects that are poor or
intermediate metabolizers of CYP2D6 and in subjects taking strong or moderate
CYP2D6 inhibitors.
Coadministration with venetoclax is contraindicated in patients with chronic
lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) during the dose
2
initiation and ramp-up phase of venetoclax. See PRECAUTIONS: Drug
Interactions Section for specific examples.
Coadministration with itraconazole can cause elevated plasma concentrations of
these drugs and may increase or prolong both the pharmacologic effects and/or
adverse reactions to these drugs. For example, increased plasma concentrations of
some of these drugs can lead to QT prolongation and ventricular tachyarrhythmias
including occurrences of torsades de pointes, a potentially fatal arrhythmia. See
CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS Sections, and PRECAUTIONS: Drug
Interactions Section for specific examples.
DESCRIPTION
SPORANOX
®
is the brand name for itraconazole, an azole antifungal agent. Itraconazole is a
1:1:1:1 racemic mixture of four diastereomers (two enantiomeric pairs), each possessing three
chiral centers. It may be represented by the following structural formula and nomenclature:
(±)-1-[(R*)-sec-butyl]-4-[p-[4-[p-[[(2R*,4S*)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-
ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]phenyl]-Δ
2
-1,2,4-triazolin-5-one
mixture with (±)-1-[(R*)-sec-butyl]-4-[p-[4-[p-[[(2S*,4R*)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-
1,2,4-triazol-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]phenyl]-Δ
2
-1,2,4-
triazolin-5-one
or
(±)-1-[(RS)-sec-butyl]-4-[p-[4-[p-[[(2R,4S)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-
ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]-1-piperazinyl]phenyl]-Δ
2
-1,2,4-triazolin-5-one
Itraconazole has a molecular formula of C
35
H
38
Cl
2
N
8
O
4
and a molecular weight of 705.64. It is
a white to slightly yellowish powder. It is insoluble in water, very slightly soluble in alcohols,
and freely soluble in dichloromethane. It has a pKa of 3.70 (based on extrapolation of values
obtained from methanolic solutions) and a log (n-octanol/water) partition coefficient of 5.66 at
pH 8.1.
3
SPORANOX
®
Capsules contain 100 mg of itraconazole coated on sugar spheres (composed of
sucrose, maize starch, and purified water). Inactive ingredients are hard gelatin capsule,
hypromellose, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 20,000, titanium dioxide, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C
Blue No. 2, D&C Red No. 22 and D&C Red No. 28.
Meets USP Dissolution Test 2.
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism:
General Pharmacokinetic Characteristics
Peak plasma concentrations of itraconazole are reached within 2 to 5 hours following oral
administration. As a consequence of non-linear pharmacokinetics, itraconazole accumulates in
plasma during multiple dosing. Steady-state concentrations are generally reached within about
15 days, with C
max
values of 0.5 μg/mL, 1.1 μg/mL and 2.0 μg/mL after oral administration of
100 mg once daily, 200 mg once daily and 200 mg b.i.d., respectively. The terminal half-life of
itraconazole generally ranges from 16 to 28 hours after single dose and increases to 34 to 42 hours
with repeated dosing. Once treatment is stopped, itraconazole plasma concentrations decrease to
an almost undetectable concentration within 7 to 14 days, depending on the dose and duration of
treatment. Itraconazole mean total plasma clearance following intravenous administration is
278 mL/min. Itraconazole clearance decreases at higher doses due to saturable hepatic metabolism.
Absorption
Itraconazole is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations of
itraconazole are reached within 2 to 5 hours following an oral capsule dose. The observed absolute
oral bioavailability of itraconazole is about 55%.
The oral bioavailability of itraconazole is maximal when SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules
are taken immediately after a full meal. Absorption of itraconazole capsules is reduced in subjects
with reduced gastric acidity, such as subjects taking medications known as gastric acid secretion
suppressors (e.g., H
2
-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors) or subjects with achlorhydria
caused by certain diseases. (See PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions.) Absorption of itraconazole
under fasted conditions in these subjects is increased when SPORANOX
®
Capsules are
administered with an acidic beverage (such as a non-diet cola). When SPORANOX
®
Capsules
were administered as a single 200-mg dose under fasted conditions with non-diet cola after
ranitidine pretreatment, a H
2
-receptor antagonist, itraconazole absorption was comparable to that
observed when SPORANOX
®
Capsules were administered alone. (See PRECAUTIONS: Drug
Interactions.)
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Itraconazole exposure is lower with the Capsule formulation than with the Oral Solution when the
same dose of drug is given. (See WARNINGS)
Distribution
Most of the itraconazole in plasma is bound to protein (99.8%), with albumin being the main
binding component (99.6% for the hydroxy-metabolite). It has also a marked affinity for lipids.
Only 0.2% of the itraconazole in plasma is present as free drug. Itraconazole is distributed in a
large apparent volume in the body (>700 L), suggesting extensive distribution into tissues.
Concentrations in lung, kidney, liver, bone, stomach, spleen and muscle were found to be two to
three times higher than corresponding concentrations in plasma, and the uptake into keratinous
tissues, skin in particular, up to four times higher. Concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid are
much lower than in plasma.
Metabolism
Itraconazole is extensively metabolized by the liver into a large number of metabolites. In vitro
studies have shown that CYP3A4 is the major enzyme involved in the metabolism of itraconazole.
The main metabolite is hydroxy-itraconazole, which has in vitro antifungal activity comparable to
itraconazole; trough plasma concentrations of this metabolite are about twice those of itraconazole.
Excretion
Itraconazole is excreted mainly as inactive metabolites in urine (35%) and in feces (54%) within
one week of an oral solution dose. Renal excretion of itraconazole and the active metabolite
hydroxy-itraconazole account for less than 1% of an intravenous dose. Based on an oral
radiolabeled dose, fecal excretion of unchanged drug ranges from 3% to 18% of the dose.
As re-distribution of itraconazole from keratinous tissues appears to be negligible, elimination of
itraconazole from these tissues is related to epidermal regeneration. Contrary to plasma, the
concentration in skin persists for 2 to 4 weeks after discontinuation of a 4-week treatment and in
nail keratin where itraconazole can be detected as early as 1 week after start of treatment for
at least six months after the end of a 3-month treatment period.
Special Populations:
Renal Impairment:
Limited data are available on the use of oral itraconazole in patients with renal impairment. A
pharmacokinetic study using a single 200 mg oral dose of itraconazole was conducted in three
groups of patients with renal impairment (uremia: n=7; hemodialysis: n=7; and continuous
ambulatory peritoneal dialysis: n=5). In uremic subjects with a mean creatinine clearance of
13 mL/min. × 1.73 m
2
, the exposure, based on AUC, was slightly reduced compared with normal
population parameters. This study did not demonstrate any significant effect of hemodialysis or
5
continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis on the pharmacokinetics of itraconazole (T
max
, C
max
, and
AUC
0-8h
). Plasma concentration-versus-time profiles showed wide intersubject variation in all
three groups. After a single intravenous dose, the mean terminal half-lives of itraconazole in
patients with mild (defined in this study as CrCl 50-79 mL/min), moderate (defined in this study
as CrCl 20-49 mL/min), and severe renal impairment (defined in this study as CrCl <20 mL/min)
were similar to that in healthy subjects (range of means 42-49 hours vs 48 hours in renally impaired
patients and healthy subjects, respectively). Overall exposure to itraconazole, based on AUC, was
decreased in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment by approximately 30% and 40%,
respectively, as compared with subjects with normal renal function. Data are not available in
renally impaired patients during long-term use of itraconazole. Dialysis has no effect on the half-
life or clearance of itraconazole or hydroxy-itraconazole. (See PRECAUTIONS and DOSAGE
AND ADMINISTRATION.)
Hepatic Impairment:
Itraconazole is predominantly metabolized in the liver. A pharmacokinetic study was conducted
in 6 healthy and 12 cirrhotic subjects who were administered a single 100 mg dose of itraconazole
as capsule. A statistically significant reduction in mean C
max
(47%) and a twofold increase in the
elimination half-life (37±17 hours vs. 16±5 hours) of itraconazole were noted in cirrhotic subjects
compared with healthy subjects. However, overall exposure to itraconazole, based on AUC, was
similar in cirrhotic patients and in healthy subjects. Data are not available in cirrhotic patients
during long-term use of itraconazole. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRECAUTIONS: Drug
Interactions and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)
Decreased Cardiac Contractility:
When itraconazole was administered intravenously to anesthetized dogs, a dose-related negative
inotropic effect was documented. In a healthy volunteer study of itraconazole intravenous infusion,
transient, asymptomatic decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction were observed using gated
SPECT imaging; these resolved before the next infusion, 12 hours later. If signs or symptoms of
congestive heart failure appear during administration of SPORANOX
®
Capsules, SPORANOX
®
should be discontinued. (See BOXED WARNING, CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS,
PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions and ADVERSE REACTIONS: Post-marketing Experience
for more information.)
MICROBIOLOGY
Mechanism of Action:
In vitro studies have demonstrated that itraconazole inhibits the cytochrome P450-dependent
synthesis of ergosterol, which is a vital component of fungal cell membranes.
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Antimicrobial Activity:
Itraconazole exhibits in vitro activity against Blastomyces dermatitidis, Histoplasma capsulatum,
Histoplasma duboisii, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Trichophyton species (See
INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Description of Clinical Studies).
Susceptibility Testing Methods:
For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria and associated test
methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see:
https://www.fda.gov/STIC.
Resistance:
Isolates from several fungal species with decreased susceptibility to itraconazole have been
isolated in vitro and from patients receiving prolonged therapy.
Itraconazole is not active against Zygomycetes (e.g., Rhizopus spp., Rhizomucor spp., Mucor spp.
and Absidia spp.), Fusarium spp., Scedosporium spp. and Scopulariopsis spp.
Cross-Resistance:
Several in vitro studies have reported that some fungal clinical isolates with reduced susceptibility
to one azole antifungal agent may also be less susceptible to other azole derivatives. The finding
of cross-resistance is dependent on a number of factors, including the species evaluated, its clinical
history, the particular azole compounds compared, and the type of susceptibility test that is
performed.
Studies (both in vitro and in vivo) suggest that the activity of amphotericin B may be suppressed
by prior azole antifungal therapy. As with other azoles, itraconazole inhibits the
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C-demethylation
step in the synthesis of ergosterol, a cell wall component of fungi. Ergosterol is the active site for
amphotericin B. In one study the antifungal activity of amphotericin B against Aspergillus
fumigatus infections in mice was inhibited by ketoconazole therapy. The clinical significance of
test results obtained in this study is unknown.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules are indicated for the treatment of the following fungal
infections in immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patients:
1. Blastomycosis, pulmonary and extrapulmonary
2. Histoplasmosis, including chronic cavitary pulmonary disease and disseminated, non-
meningeal histoplasmosis, and
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3. Aspergillosis, pulmonary and extrapulmonary, in patients who are intolerant of or who are
refractory to amphotericin B therapy.
Specimens for fungal cultures and other relevant laboratory studies (wet mount, histopathology,
serology) should be obtained before therapy to isolate and identify causative organisms. Therapy
may be instituted before the results of the cultures and other laboratory studies are known;
however, once these results become available, antiinfective therapy should be adjusted
accordingly.
SPORANOX
®
Capsules are also indicated for the treatment of the following fungal infections in
non-immunocompromised patients:
1. Onychomycosis of the toenail, with or without fingernail involvement, due to
dermatophytes (tinea unguium), and
2. Onychomycosis of the fingernail due to dermatophytes (tinea unguium).
Prior to initiating treatment, appropriate nail specimens for laboratory testing (KOH preparation,
fungal culture, or nail biopsy) should be obtained to confirm the diagnosis of onychomycosis.
(See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations, CONTRAINDICATIONS,
WARNINGS, and ADVERSE REACTIONS: Post-marketing Experience for more information.)
Description of Clinical Studies:
Blastomycosis:
Analyses were conducted on data from two open-label, non-concurrently controlled studies (N=73
combined) in patients with normal or abnormal immune status. The median dose was 200 mg/day.
A response for most signs and symptoms was observed within the first 2 weeks, and all signs and
symptoms cleared between 3 and 6 months. Results of these two studies demonstrated substantial
evidence of the effectiveness of itraconazole for the treatment of blastomycosis compared with the
natural history of untreated cases.
Histoplasmosis:
Analyses were conducted on data from two open-label, non-concurrently controlled studies (N=34
combined) in patients with normal or abnormal immune status (not including HIV-infected
patients). The median dose was 200 mg/day. A response for most signs and symptoms was
observed within the first 2 weeks, and all signs and symptoms cleared between 3 and 12 months.
Results of these two studies demonstrated substantial evidence of the effectiveness of itraconazole
for the treatment of histoplasmosis, compared with the natural history of untreated cases.
8
Histoplasmosis in HIV-infected patients:
Data from a small number of HIV-infected patients suggested that the response rate of
histoplasmosis in HIV-infected patients is similar to that of non-HIV-infected patients. The clinical
course of histoplasmosis in HIV-infected patients is more severe and usually requires maintenance
therapy to prevent relapse.
Aspergillosis:
Analyses were conducted on data from an open-label, “single-patient-use” protocol designed to
make itraconazole available in the U.S. for patients who either failed or were intolerant of
amphotericin B therapy (N=190). The findings were corroborated by two smaller open-label
studies (N=31 combined) in the same patient population. Most adult patients were treated with a
daily dose of 200 to 400 mg, with a median duration of 3 months. Results of these studies
demonstrated substantial evidence of effectiveness of itraconazole as a second-line therapy for the
treatment of aspergillosis compared with the natural history of the disease in patients who either
failed or were intolerant of amphotericin B therapy.
Onychomycosis of the toenail:
Analyses were conducted on data from three double-blind, placebo-controlled studies
(N=214 total; 110 given SPORANOX
®
Capsules) in which patients with onychomycosis of the
toenails received 200 mg of SPORANOX
®
Capsules once daily for 12 consecutive weeks. Results
of these studies demonstrated mycologic cure, defined as simultaneous occurrence of negative
KOH plus negative culture, in 54% of patients. Thirty-five percent (35%) of patients were
considered an overall success (mycologic cure plus clear or minimal nail involvement with
significantly decreased signs) and 14% of patients demonstrated mycologic cure plus clinical cure
(clearance of all signs, with or without residual nail deformity). The mean time to overall success
was approximately 10 months. Twenty-one percent (21%) of the overall success group had a
relapse (worsening of the global score or conversion of KOH or culture from negative to positive).
Onychomycosis of the fingernail:
Analyses were conducted on data from a double-blind, placebo-controlled study (N=73 total; 37
given SPORANOX
®
Capsules) in which patients with onychomycosis of the fingernails received
a 1-week course (pulse) of 200 mg of SPORANOX
®
Capsules b.i.d., followed by a 3-week period
without SPORANOX
®
, which was followed by a second 1-week pulse of 200 mg of
SPORANOX
®
Capsules b.i.d. Results demonstrated mycologic cure in 61% of patients. Fifty-six
percent (56%) of patients were considered an overall success and 47% of patients demonstrated
mycologic cure plus clinical cure. The mean time to overall success was approximately 5 months.
None of the patients who achieved overall success relapsed.
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CONTRAINDICATIONS
Congestive Heart Failure:
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules should not be administered for the treatment of
onychomycosis in patients with evidence of ventricular dysfunction such as congestive heart
failure (CHF) or a history of CHF. (See BOXED WARNING, WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS:
Drug Interactions-Calcium Channel Blockers, ADVERSE REACTIONS: Post-marketing
Experience, and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations.)
Drug Interactions:
Coadministration of a number of CYP3A4 substrates are contraindicated with SPORANOX
®
.
Some examples of drugs for which plasma concentrations increase are: methadone, disopyramide,
dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine, isavuconazole, ergot alkaloids (such as dihydroergotamine,
ergometrine (ergonovine), ergotamine, methylergometrine (methylergonovine)), irinotecan,
lurasidone, oral midazolam, pimozide, triazolam, felodipine, nisoldipine, ivabradine, ranolazine,
eplerenone, cisapride, naloxegol, lomitapide, lovastatin, simvastatin, avanafil, ticagrelor,
finerenone, voclosporin. In addition, coadministration with colchicine, fesoterodine and
solifenacin is contraindicated in subjects with varying degrees of renal or hepatic impairment, and
coadministration with eliglustat is contraindicated in subjects that are poor or intermediate
metabolizers of CYP2D6 and in subjects taking strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors. (See
PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions Section for specific examples.) This increase in drug
concentrations caused by coadministration with itraconazole may increase or prolong both the
pharmacologic effects and/or adverse reactions to these drugs. For example, increased plasma
concentrations of some of these drugs can lead to QT prolongation and ventricular
tachyarrhythmias including occurrences of torsade de pointes, a potentially fatal arrhythmia. Some
specific examples are listed in PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions.
Coadministration with venetoclax is contraindicated in patients with CLL/SLL during the dose
initiation and ramp-up phase of venetoclax due to the potential for an increased risk of tumor lysis
syndrome.
SPORANOX
®
should not be administered for the treatment of onychomycosis to pregnant patients
or to women contemplating pregnancy.
SPORANOX
®
is contraindicated for patients who have shown hypersensitivity to itraconazole.
There is limited information regarding cross-hypersensitivity between itraconazole and other azole
antifungal agents. Caution should be used when prescribing SPORANOX
®
to patients with
hypersensitivity to other azoles.
10
WARNINGS
Hepatic Effects:
SPORANOX
®
has been associated with rare cases of serious hepatotoxicity, including liver
failure and death. Some of these cases had neither pre-existing liver disease nor a serious
underlying medical condition, and some of these cases developed within the first week of
treatment. If clinical signs or symptoms develop that are consistent with liver disease,
treatment should be discontinued and liver function testing performed. Continued
SPORANOX
®
use or reinstitution of treatment with SPORANOX
®
is strongly discouraged
unless there is a serious or life-threatening situation where the expected benefit exceeds the
risk. (See PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients and ADVERSE REACTIONS.)
Cardiac Dysrhythmias:
Life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias and/or sudden death have occurred in patients using drugs
such as cisapride, pimozide, methadone, or quinidine concomitantly with SPORANOX
®
and/or
other CYP3A4 inhibitors. Concomitant administration of these drugs with SPORANOX
®
is
contraindicated. (See BOXED WARNING, CONTRAINDICATIONS, and PRECAUTIONS:
Drug Interactions.)
Cardiac Disease:
SPORANOX
®
Capsules should not be administered for the treatment of onychomycosis in
patients with evidence of ventricular dysfunction such as congestive heart failure (CHF) or
a history of CHF. SPORANOX
®
Capsules should not be used for other indications in patients
with evidence of ventricular dysfunction unless the benefit clearly outweighs the risk.
For patients with risk factors for congestive heart failure, physicians should carefully review the
risks and benefits of SPORANOX
®
therapy. These risk factors include cardiac disease such as
ischemic and valvular disease; significant pulmonary disease such as chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease; and renal failure and other edematous disorders. Such patients should be
informed of the signs and symptoms of CHF, should be treated with caution, and should be
monitored for signs and symptoms of CHF during treatment. If signs or symptoms of CHF appear
during administration of SPORANOX
®
Capsules, discontinue administration.
Itraconazole has been shown to have a negative inotropic effect. When itraconazole was
administered intravenously to anesthetized dogs, a dose-related negative inotropic effect was
documented. In a healthy volunteer study of itraconazole intravenous infusion, transient,
asymptomatic decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction were observed using gated SPECT
imaging; these resolved before the next infusion, 12 hours later.
11
SPORANOX
®
has been associated with reports of congestive heart failure. In post-marketing
experience, heart failure was more frequently reported in patients receiving a total daily dose of
400 mg although there were also cases reported among those receiving lower total daily doses.
Calcium channel blockers can have negative inotropic effects which may be additive to those of
itraconazole. In addition, itraconazole can inhibit the metabolism of calcium channel blockers.
Therefore, caution should be used when co-administering itraconazole and calcium channel
blockers due to an increased risk of CHF. Concomitant administration of SPORANOX
®
and
felodipine or nisoldipine is contraindicated.
Cases of CHF, peripheral edema, and pulmonary edema have been reported in the post-marketing
period among patients being treated for onychomycosis and/or systemic fungal infections. (See
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations, CONTRAINDICATIONS,
PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions, and ADVERSE REACTIONS: Post-marketing Experience
for more information.)
Interaction Potential:
SPORANOX
®
has a potential for clinically important drug interactions. Coadministration of
specific drugs with itraconazole may result in changes in efficacy of itraconazole and/or the
coadministered drug, life-threatening effects and/or sudden death. Drugs that are contraindicated,
not recommended or recommended for use with caution in combination with itraconazole are listed
in PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions.
Interchangeability:
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules and SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution should not be used
interchangeably. This is because drug exposure is greater with the Oral Solution than with the
Capsules when the same dose of drug is given. In addition, the topical effects of mucosal exposure
may be different between the two formulations. Only the Oral Solution has been demonstrated
effective for oral and/or esophageal candidiasis.
PRECAUTIONS
General:
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules should be administered after a full meal. (See CLINICAL
PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism).
Under fasted conditions, itraconazole absorption was decreased in the presence of decreased
gastric acidity. The absorption of itraconazole may be decreased with the concomitant
administration of antacids or gastric acid secretion suppressors. Studies conducted under fasted
conditions demonstrated that administration with 8 ounces of a non-diet cola beverage resulted in
increased absorption of itraconazole in AIDS patients with relative or absolute achlorhydria. This
12
increase relative to the effects of a full meal is unknown. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY:
Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism).
Hepatotoxicity:
Rare cases of serious hepatotoxicity have been observed with SPORANOX
®
treatment, including
some cases within the first week. It is recommended that liver function monitoring be considered
in all patients receiving SPORANOX
®
. Treatment should be stopped immediately and liver
function testing should be conducted in patients who develop signs and symptoms suggestive of
liver dysfunction.
Neuropathy:
If neuropathy occurs that may be attributable to SPORANOX
®
Capsules, the treatment should be
discontinued.
Immunocompromised Patients:
In some immunocompromised patients (e.g., neutropenic, AIDS or organ transplant patients), the
oral bioavailability of SPORANOX
®
capsules may be decreased. Therefore, the dose should be
adjusted based on the clinical response in these patients.
Cystic Fibrosis:
If a cystic fibrosis patient does not respond to SPORANOX
®
Capsules, consideration should be
given to switching to alternative therapy. For more information concerning the use of itraconazole
in cystic fibrosis patients see the prescribing information for SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution.
Hearing Loss:
Transient or permanent hearing loss has been reported in patients receiving treatment with
itraconazole. Several of these reports included concurrent administration of quinidine which is
contraindicated (See BOXED WARNING: Drug Interactions, CONTRAINDICATIONS: Drug
Interactions and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions). The hearing loss usually resolves when
treatment is stopped, but can persist in some patients.
Information for Patients:
The topical effects of mucosal exposure may be different between the SPORANOX
®
Capsules and Oral Solution. Only the Oral Solution has been demonstrated effective for
oral and/or esophageal candidiasis. SPORANOX
®
Capsules should not be used
interchangeably with SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution.
Instruct patients to take SPORANOX
®
Capsules with a full meal. SPORANOX
®
Capsules
must be swallowed whole.
Instruct patients about the signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure, and if these
signs or symptoms occur during SPORANOX
®
administration, they should discontinue
SPORANOX
®
and contact their healthcare provider immediately.
13
Instruct patients to stop SPORANOX
®
treatment immediately and contact their healthcare
provider if any signs and symptoms suggestive of liver dysfunction develop. Such signs
and symptoms may include unusual fatigue, anorexia, nausea and/or vomiting, jaundice,
dark urine, or pale stools.
Instruct patients to contact their physician before taking any concomitant medications with
itraconazole to ensure there are no potential drug interactions.
Instruct patients that hearing loss can occur with the use of itraconazole. The hearing loss
usually resolves when treatment is stopped, but can persist in some patients. Advise
patients to discontinue therapy and inform their physicians if any hearing loss symptoms
occur.
Instruct patients that dizziness or blurred/double vision can sometimes occur with
itraconazole. Advise patients that if they experience these events, they should not drive or
use machines.
Drug Interactions:
Effect of SPORANOX
®
on Other Drugs
Itraconazole and its major metabolite, hydroxy-itraconazole, are potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.
Itraconazole is an inhibitor of the drug transporters P-glycoprotein and breast cancer resistance
protein (BCRP). Consequently, SPORANOX
®
has the potential to interact with many concomitant
drugs resulting in either increased or sometimes decreased concentrations of the concomitant
drugs. Increased concentrations may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with the
concomitant drug which can be severe or life-threatening in some cases (e.g., QT prolongation,
Torsade de Pointes, respiratory depression, hepatic adverse reactions, hypersensitivity reactions,
myelosuppression, hypotension, seizures, angioedema, atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, priapism).
Reduced concentrations of concomitant drugs may reduce their efficacy. Table 1 lists examples of
drugs that may have their concentrations affected by itraconazole, but it is not a comprehensive
list.
Refer to the approved product labeling to become familiar with the interaction pathways, risk
potential, and specific actions to be taken with regards to each concomitant drug prior to initiating
therapy with SPORANOX
®
.
Although many of the clinical drug interactions in Table 1 are based on information with a similar
azole antifungal, ketoconazole, these interactions are expected to occur with SPORANOX
®
.
14
Examples of Concomitant Drugs Within
Class
Prevention or Management
Alfuzosin
Silodosin
Tamsulosin
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Methadone
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Fentanyl
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Alfentanil
Buprenorphine (IV and sublingual)
Oxycodone
a
Sufentanil
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Disopyramide
Dofetilide
Dronedarone
Quinidine
a
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Digoxin
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Bedaquiline
b
Concomitant SPORANOX
®
not recommended for
more than 2 weeks at any time during bedaquiline
treatment.
Rifabutin
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment. See also
Table 2.
Clarithromycin
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary. See also
Table 2.
Trimetrexate
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Ticagrelor
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Apixaban
Rivaroxaban
Vorapaxar
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
15
Cilostazol
Dabigatran
Warfarin
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Carbamazepine
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment. See also
Table 2.
Repaglinide
a
Saxagliptin
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Isavuconazonium
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Praziquantel
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Artemether-lumefantrine
Quinine
a
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Ergot alkaloids (e.g., dihydroergotamine,
ergotamine)
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Eletriptan
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Irinotecan
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Venetoclax
Contraindicated during the dose initiation and
ramp-up phase in patients with CLL/SLL. Refer to
the venetoclax prescribing information for dosing
and safety monitoring instructions.
Mobocertinib
a
Avoid use during and 2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Axitinib
Bosutinib
Cabazitaxel
Cabozantinib
Ceritinib
Cobimetinib
a
Crizotinib
Dabrafenib
Dasatinib
Docetaxel
Ibrutinib
Lapatinib
Nilotinib
Olaparib
a
Pazopanib
Sunitinib
Trabectedin
Trastuzumab-
emtansine
Vinca alkaloids
Avoid use during and 2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Entrectinib
a
Pemigatinib
a
Talazoparib
a
Refer to the entrectinib, pemigatinib and
talazoparib prescribing information for dosing
instructions if concomitant use cannot be avoided.
16
Glasdegib
Refer to the glasdegib prescribing information for
safety monitoring if concomitant use cannot be
avoided.
Bortezomib
Brentuximab-
vedotin
Busulfan
a
Erlotinib
Gefitinib
a
Idelalisib
Imatinib
Ixabepilone
Nintedanib
Panobinostat
Ponatinib
Ruxolitinib
Sonidegib
Tretinoin (oral)
Vandetanib
a
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary. For idelalisib,
see also Table 2.
Alprazolam
a
Aripiprazole
a
Buspirone
a
Cariprazine
Diazepam
a
Haloperidol
a
Midazolam (IV)
a
Quetiapine
Ramelteon
Risperidone
a
Suvorexant
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Zopiclone
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Lurasidone
Midazolam (oral)
a
Pimozide
Triazolam
a
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Daclatasvir
Indinavir
a
Maraviroc
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary. For indinavir,
see also Table 2.
Cobicistat
Elvitegravir (ritonavir-boosted)
Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/Ritonavir with or
without Dasabuvir
Ritonavir
Saquinavir (unboosted)
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. See also Table 2.
Elbasvir/grazoprevir
Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Nadolol
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
17
Felodipine
a
Nisoldipine
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Diltiazem
Other dihydropyridines
Verapamil
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary. For diltiazem,
see also Table 2.
Ivabradine
Ranolazine
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Aliskiren
a
Riociguat
Sildenafil (for pulmonary hypertension)
Tadalafil (for pulmonary hypertension)
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment. For sildenafil and
tadalafil, see also Urologic Drugs below.
Bosentan
Guanfacine
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Dienogest
Ulipristal
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Eplerenone
Finerenone
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Cisapride
Naloxegol
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Aprepitant
Loperamide
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Netupitant
Monitor for adverse reactions.
Voclosporin
Contraindicated during and for 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Everolimus
Sirolimus
Temsirolimus (IV)
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Budesonide
(inhalation)
a
Budesonide (non-
inhalation)
Ciclesonide
(inhalation)
Cyclosporine (IV)
a
Cyclosporine (non-
IV)
Dexamethasone
a
Fluticasone
(inhalation)
a
Fluticasone (nasal)
Methylprednisolone
a
Tacrolimus (IV)
a
Tacrolimus (oral)
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
18
Lomitapide
Lovastatin
a
Simvastatin
a
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Atorvastatin
a
Monitor for drug adverse reactions. Concomitant
drug dose reduction may be necessary.
Salmeterol
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Venlafaxine
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Avanafil
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Fesoterodine
Patients with moderate to severe renal or hepatic
impairment: Contraindicated during and 2 weeks
after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Other patients: Monitor for adverse reactions.
Concomitant drug dose reduction may be
necessary.
Solifenacin
Patients with severe renal or moderate to severe
hepatic impairment: Contraindicated during and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Other patients: Monitor for adverse reactions.
Concomitant drug dose reduction may be
necessary.
Darifenacin
Vardenafil
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Dutasteride
Oxybutynin
a
Sildenafil (for erectile dysfunction)
Tadalafil (for erectile dysfunction and
benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Tolterodine
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary. For sildenafil
and tadalafil, see also Cardiovascular Drugs
above.
Colchicine
Patients with renal or hepatic impairment:
Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Other patients: Not recommended during and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Eliglustat
CYP2D6 EMs
c
taking a strong or moderate
CYP2D6 inhibitor, CYP2D6 IMs
c
, or CYP2D6
19
PMs
c
: Contraindicated during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
CYP2D6 EMs
c
not taking a strong or moderate
CYP2D6 inhibitor: Monitor for adverse reactions.
Eliglustat dose reduction may be necessary.
Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Alitretinoin (oral)
Cabergoline
Cannabinoids
Cinacalcet
Galantamine
Ivacaftor
Monitor for adverse reactions. Concomitant drug
dose reduction may be necessary.
Valbenazine
Concomitant drug dose reduction is necessary.
Refer to the valbenazine prescribing information
for dosing instructions.
Conivaptan
Tolvaptan
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Regorafenib
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Saccharomyces boulardii
Not recommended during and 2 weeks after
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Meloxicam
a
Concomitant drug dose increase may be necessary.
*
CYP3A4 inhibitors (including itraconazole) may increase systemic contraceptive hormone concentrations.
a
Based on clinical drug interaction information with itraconazole.
b
Based on 400 mg bedaquiline once daily for 2 weeks.
c
EMs: extensive metabolizers; IMs: intermediate metabolizers, PMs: poor metabolizers
Effect of Other Drugs on SPORANOX
®
Itraconazole is mainly metabolized through CYP3A4. Other substances that either share this
metabolic pathway or modify CYP3A4 activity may influence the pharmacokinetics of
itraconazole. Some concomitant drugs have the potential to interact with SPORANOX
®
resulting
in either increased or sometimes decreased concentrations of SPORANOX
®
. Increased
concentrations may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with SPORANOX
®
.
Decreased concentrations may reduce SPORANOX
®
efficacy.
20
Table 2 lists examples of drugs that may affect itraconazole concentrations, but is not a
comprehensive list. Refer to the approved product labeling to become familiar with the interaction
pathways, risk potential and specific actions to be taken with regards to each concomitant drug
prior to initiating therapy with SPORANOX
®
.
Although many of the clinical drug interactions in Table 2 are based on information with a similar
azole antifungal, ketoconazole, these interactions are expected to occur with SPORANOX
®
.
Examples of Concomitant Drugs Within
Class
Prevention or Management
Ciprofloxacin
a
Erythromycin
a
Clarithromycin
a
Monitor for adverse reactions. SPORANOX
®
dose
reduction may be necessary.
Idelalisib
Monitor for adverse reactions. SPORANOX
®
dose
reduction may be necessary. See also Table 1.
Cobicistat
Darunavir (ritonavir-boosted)
Elvitegravir (ritonavir-boosted)
Fosamprenavir (ritonavir-boosted)
Indinavir
a
Ombitasvir/ Paritaprevir/ Ritonavir with or
without Dasabuvir
Ritonavir
Saquinavir
Monitor for adverse reactions. SPORANOX
®
dose
reduction may be necessary. For, cobicistat,
elvitegravir, indinavir, ombitasvir/ paritaprevir/
ritonavir with or without dasabuvir, ritonavir, and
saquinavir, see also Table 1.
Diltiazem
Monitor for adverse reactions.
SPORANOX
®
dose
reduction may be necessary. See also Table 1.
Isoniazid
Rifampicin
a
Not recommended 2 weeks before and during
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Rifabutin
a
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment. See also
Table 1.
21
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin
a
Not recommended 2 weeks before and during
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Carbamazepine
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment. See also
Table 1.
Efavirenz
a
Nevirapine
a
Not recommended 2 weeks before and during
SPORANOX
®
treatment.
Gastrointestinal Drugs
Drugs that reduce gastric acidity e.g. acid
neutralizing medicines such as aluminum
hydroxide, or acid secretion suppressors
such as H
2
- receptor antagonists and proton
pump inhibitors.
Use with caution. Administer acid neutralizing
medicines at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after the
intake of SPORANOX
®
capsules.
Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor
Not recommended 2 weeks before, during, and
2 weeks after SPORANOX
®
treatment.
a
Based on clinical drug interaction information with itraconazole.
Pediatric Population
Interaction studies have only been performed in adults.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, and Impairment of Fertility:
Itraconazole showed no evidence of carcinogenicity potential in mice treated orally for 23 months
at dosage levels up to 80 mg/kg/day (approximately 1 time the maximum recommended human
dose [MRHD] of 400 mg/day based on body surface area comparisons). Male rats treated with
25 mg/kg/day (0.6 times the MRHD based on body surface area comparisons) had a slightly
increased incidence of soft tissue sarcoma. These sarcomas may have been a consequence of
hypercholesterolemia, which is a response of rats, but not dogs or humans, to chronic itraconazole
administration. Female rats treated with 50 mg/kg/day (1.2 times the MRHD based on body
surface area comparisons) had an increased incidence of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
(2/50) as compared to the untreated group. Although the occurrence of squamous cell carcinoma
in the lung is extremely uncommon in untreated rats, the increase in this study was not statistically
significant.
Itraconazole produced no mutagenic effects when assayed in DNA repair test (unscheduled DNA
synthesis) in primary rat hepatocytes, in Ames tests with Salmonella typhimurium (6 strains) and
Escherichia coli, in the mouse lymphoma gene mutation tests, in a sex-linked recessive lethal
mutation (Drosophila melanogaster) test, in chromosome aberration tests in human lymphocytes,
22
in a cell transformation test with C3H/10T½ C18 mouse embryo fibroblasts cells, in a dominant
lethal mutation test in male and female mice, and in micronucleus tests in mice and rats.
Itraconazole did not affect the fertility of male or female rats treated orally with dosage levels of
up to 40 mg/kg/day (1 time the MRHD based on body surface area comparisons), even though
parental toxicity was present at this dosage level. More severe signs of parental toxicity, including
death, were present in the next higher dosage level, 160 mg/kg/day (4 times the MRHD based on
body surface area comparisons).
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects:
Itraconazole was found to cause a dose-related increase in maternal toxicity, embryotoxicity, and
teratogenicity in rats at dosage levels of approximately 40-160 mg/kg/day (1-4 times the MRHD
based on body surface area comparisons), and in mice at dosage levels of approximately
80 mg/kg/day (1 time the MRHD based on body surface area comparisons). Itraconazole has been
shown to cross the placenta in a rat model. In rats, the teratogenicity consisted of major skeletal
defects; in mice, it consisted of encephaloceles and/or macroglossia.
There are no studies in pregnant women. SPORANOX
®
should be used for the treatment of
systemic fungal infections in pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the potential risk.
SPORANOX
®
should not be administered for the treatment of onychomycosis to pregnant patients
or to women contemplating pregnancy. SPORANOX
®
should not be administered to women of
childbearing potential for the treatment of onychomycosis unless they are using effective measures
to prevent pregnancy and they begin therapy on the second or third day following the onset of
menses. Highly effective contraception should be continued throughout SPORANOX
®
therapy
and for 2 months following the end of treatment.
During post-marketing experience, cases of congenital abnormalities have been reported. (See
ADVERSE REACTIONS: Post-marketing Experience.)
Nursing Mothers:
Itraconazole is excreted in human milk; therefore, the expected benefits of SPORANOX
®
therapy
for the mother should be weighed against the potential risk from exposure of itraconazole to the
infant. The U.S. Public Health Service Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises HIV-
infected women not to breast-feed to avoid potential transmission of HIV to uninfected infants.
Pediatric Use:
The efficacy and safety of SPORANOX
®
have not been established in pediatric patients.
The long-term effects of itraconazole on bone growth in children are unknown. In three toxicology
studies using rats, itraconazole induced bone defects at dosage levels as low as 20 mg/kg/day
23
(0.5 times the MRHD of 400 mg based on body surface area comparisons). The induced defects
included reduced bone plate activity, thinning of the zona compacta of the large bones, and
increased bone fragility. At a dosage level of 80 mg/kg/day (2 times the MRHD based on body
surface area comparisons) over 1 year or 160 mg/kg/day (4 times the MRHD based on body
surface area comparisons) for 6 months, itraconazole induced small tooth pulp with hypocellular
appearance in some rats.
Geriatric Use:
Clinical studies of SPORANOX
®
Capsules did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged
65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. It is
advised to use SPORANOX
®
Capsules in these patients only if it is determined that the potential
benefit outweighs the potential risks. In general, it is recommended that the dose selection for an
elderly patient should be taken into consideration, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased
hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Transient or permanent hearing loss has been reported in elderly patients receiving treatment with
itraconazole. Several of these reports included concurrent administration of quinidine which is
contraindicated (See BOXED WARNING: Drug Interactions, CONTRAINDICATIONS: Drug
Interactions and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions).
HIV-Infected Patients:
Because hypochlorhydria has been reported in HIV-infected individuals, the absorption of
itraconazole in these patients may be decreased.
Renal Impairment:
Limited data are available on the use of oral itraconazole in patients with renal impairment. The
exposure of itraconazole may be lower in some patients with renal impairment. Caution should be
exercised when itraconazole is administered in this patient population and dose adjustment may
be needed. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations and DOSAGE AND
ADMINISTRATION.)
Hepatic Impairment:
Limited data are available on the use of oral itraconazole in patients with hepatic impairment.
Caution should be exercised when this drug is administered in this patient population. It is
recommended that patients with impaired hepatic function be carefully monitored when taking
SPORANOX
®
. It is recommended that the prolonged elimination half-life of itraconazole
observed in the single oral dose clinical trial with itraconazole capsules in cirrhotic patients be
considered when deciding to initiate therapy with other medications metabolized by CYP3A4.
24
In patients with elevated or abnormal liver enzymes or active liver disease, or who have
experienced liver toxicity with other drugs, treatment with SPORANOX
®
is strongly discouraged
unless there is a serious or life-threatening situation where the expected benefit exceeds the risk.
It is recommended that liver function monitoring be done in patients with pre-existing hepatic
function abnormalities or those who have experienced liver toxicity with other medications. (See
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations and DOSAGE AND
ADMINISTRATION.)
ADVERSE REACTIONS
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 clinical practice.
SPORANOX
®
has been associated with rare cases of serious hepatotoxicity, including liver failure
and death. Some of these cases had neither pre-existing liver disease nor a serious underlying
medical condition. If clinical signs or symptoms develop that are consistent with liver disease,
treatment should be discontinued and liver function testing performed. The risks and benefits of
SPORANOX
®
use should be reassessed. (See WARNINGS: Hepatic Effects and
PRECAUTIONS: Hepatotoxicity and Information for Patients.)
Adverse Events in the Treatment of Systemic Fungal Infections
Adverse event data were derived from 602 patients treated for systemic fungal disease in U.S.
clinical trials who were immunocompromised or receiving multiple concomitant medications.
Treatment was discontinued in 10.5% of patients due to adverse events. The median duration
before discontinuation of therapy was 81 days (range: 2 to 776 days). The table lists adverse events
reported by at least 1% of patients.
Table 3: Clinical Trials of Systemic Fungal Infections: Adverse Events Occurring with an Incidence of
Greater than or Equal to 1%
Body System/Adverse Event
Incidence (%) (N=602)
Gastrointestinal
Nausea
11
Vomiting
5
Diarrhea
3
Abdominal Pain
2
Anorexia
1
Body as a Whole
Edema
4
Fatigue
3
Fever
3
Malaise
1
25
Table 3: Clinical Trials of Systemic Fungal Infections: Adverse Events Occurring with an Incidence of
Greater than or Equal to 1%
Body System/Adverse Event
Incidence (%) (N=602)
Skin and Appendages
Rash*
9
Pruritus
3
Central/Peripheral Nervous System
Headache
4
Dizziness
2
Psychiatric
Libido Decreased
1
Somnolence
1
Cardiovascular
Hypertension
3
Metabolic/Nutritional
Hypokalemia
2
Urinary System
Albuminuria
1
Liver and Biliary System
Hepatic Function Abnormal
3
Reproductive System, Male
Impotence
1
* Rash tends to occur more frequently in immunocompromised patients receiving immunosuppressive
medications.
Adverse events infrequently reported in all studies included constipation, gastritis, depression,
insomnia, tinnitus, menstrual disorder, adrenal insufficiency, gynecomastia, and male breast pain.
Adverse Events Reported in Toenail Onychomycosis Clinical Trials
Patients in these trials were on a continuous dosing regimen of 200 mg once daily for
12 consecutive weeks.
The following adverse events led to temporary or permanent discontinuation of therapy.
Table 4: Clinical Trials of Onychomycosis of the Toenail: Adverse Events Leading to Temporary or
Permanent Discontinuation of Therapy
Adverse Event
Incidence (%)
Itraconazole (N=112)
Elevated Liver Enzymes (greater than twice the upper limit of normal)
4
Gastrointestinal Disorders
4
Rash
3
Hypertension
2
Orthostatic Hypotension
1
Headache
1
Malaise
1
Myalgia
1
Vasculitis
1
Vertigo
1
26
The following adverse events occurred with an incidence of greater than or equal to 1% (N=112):
headache: 10%; rhinitis: 9%; upper respiratory tract infection: 8%; sinusitis, injury: 7%; diarrhea,
dyspepsia, flatulence, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash: 4%; cystitis, urinary tract infection, liver
function abnormality, myalgia, nausea: 3%; appetite increased, constipation, gastritis,
gastroenteritis, pharyngitis, asthenia, fever, pain, tremor, herpes zoster, abnormal dreaming: 2%.
Adverse Events Reported in Fingernail Onychomycosis Clinical Trials
Patients in these trials were on a pulse regimen consisting of two 1-week treatment periods of
200 mg twice daily, separated by a 3-week period without drug.
The following adverse events led to temporary or permanent discontinuation of therapy.
Table 5: Clinical Trials of Onychomycosis of the Fingernail: Adverse Events Leading to Temporary or
Permanent Discontinuation of Therapy
Adverse Event
Incidence (%)
Itraconazole (N=37)
Rash/Pruritus
3
Hypertriglyceridemia
3
The following adverse events occurred with an incidence of greater than or equal to 1% (N=37):
headache: 8%; pruritus, nausea, rhinitis: 5%; rash, bursitis, anxiety, depression, constipation,
abdominal pain, dyspepsia, ulcerative stomatitis, gingivitis, hypertriglyceridemia, sinusitis,
fatigue, malaise, pain, injury: 3%.
Adverse Events Reported from Other Clinical Trials
In addition, the following adverse drug reaction was reported in patients who participated in
SPORANOX
®
Capsules clinical trials: Hepatobiliary Disorders: hyperbilirubinemia.
The following is a list of additional adverse drug reactions associated with itraconazole that have
been reported in clinical trials of SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution and itraconazole IV excluding the
adverse reaction term “Injection site inflammation” which is specific to the injection route of
administration:
Cardiac Disorders: cardiac failure, left ventricular failure, tachycardia;
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: face edema, chest pain, chills;
Hepatobiliary Disorders: hepatic failure, jaundice;
27
Investigations: alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, blood
alkaline phosphatase increased, blood lactate dehydrogenase increased, blood urea increased,
gamma-glutamyltransferase increased, urine analysis abnormal;
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: hyperglycemia, hyperkalemia, hypomagnesemia;
Psychiatric Disorders: confusional state;
Renal and Urinary Disorders: renal impairment;
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: dysphonia, cough;
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: rash erythematous, hyperhidrosis;
Vascular Disorders: hypotension
Post-marketing Experience
Adverse drug reactions that have been first identified during post-marketing experience with
SPORANOX
®
(all formulations) are listed in the table below. Because these reactions are reported
voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, reliably estimating their frequency or establishing
a causal relationship to drug exposure is not always possible.
Table 6: Post-marketing Reports of Adverse Drug Reactions
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders:
Leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia
Immune System Disorders:
Anaphylaxis; anaphylactic, anaphylactoid and allergic
reactions; serum sickness; angioneurotic edema
Nervous System Disorders:
Peripheral neuropathy, paresthesia, hypoesthesia,
tremor
Eye Disorders:
Visual disturbances, including vision blurred and
diplopia
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders:
Transient or permanent hearing loss
Cardiac Disorders:
Congestive heart failure
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders:
Pulmonary edema, dyspnea
Gastrointestinal Disorders:
Pancreatitis, dysgeusia
Hepatobiliary Disorders:
Serious hepatotoxicity (including some cases of fatal
acute liver failure), hepatitis
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders:
Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson
syndrome, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis,
erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis,
leukocytoclastic vasculitis, alopecia, photosensitivity,
urticaria
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders:
Arthralgia
Renal and Urinary Disorders:
Urinary incontinence, pollakiuria
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders:
Erectile dysfunction
General Disorders and Administration Site
Conditions:
Peripheral edema
Investigations:
Blood creatine phosphokinase increased
28
There is limited information on the use of SPORANOX
®
during pregnancy. Cases of congenital
abnormalities including skeletal, genitourinary tract, cardiovascular and ophthalmic
malformations as well as chromosomal and multiple malformations have been reported during
post-marketing experience. A causal relationship with SPORANOX
®
has not been established.
(See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations, CONTRAINDICATIONS,
WARNINGS, and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions for more information.)
OVERDOSAGE
Itraconazole is not removed by dialysis. In the event of accidental overdosage, supportive measures
should be employed. Contact a certified poison control center for the most up to date information
on the management of SPORANOX
®
Capsules overdosage (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org).
In general, adverse events reported with overdose have been consistent with adverse drug reactions
already listed in this package insert for itraconazole. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS.)
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules should be taken with a full meal to ensure maximal
absorption. SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules must be swallowed whole.
SPORANOX
®
Capsules is a different preparation than SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution and should
not be used interchangeably.
Treatment of Blastomycosis and Histoplasmosis:
The recommended dose is 200 mg once daily (2 capsules). If there is no obvious improvement, or
there is evidence of progressive fungal disease, the dose should be increased in 100-mg increments
to a maximum of 400 mg daily. Doses above 200 mg/day should be given in two divided doses.
Treatment of Aspergillosis:
A daily dose of 200 to 400 mg is recommended.
Treatment in Life-Threatening Situations:
In life-threatening situations, a loading dose should be used.
Although clinical studies did not provide for a loading dose, it is recommended, based on
pharmacokinetic data, that a loading dose of 200 mg (2 capsules) three times daily (600 mg/day)
be given for the first 3 days of treatment.
Treatment should be continued for a minimum of three months and until clinical parameters and
laboratory tests indicate that the active fungal infection has subsided. An inadequate period of
treatment may lead to recurrence of active infection.
29
SPORANOX
®
Capsules and SPORANOX
®
Oral Solution should not be used interchangeably.
Only the oral solution has been demonstrated effective for oral and/or esophageal candidiasis.
Treatment of Onychomycosis:
Toenails with or without fingernail involvement: The recommended dose is 200 mg (2 capsules)
once daily for 12 consecutive weeks.
Treatment of Onychomycosis:
Fingernails only: The recommended dosing regimen is 2 treatment pulses, each consisting of
200 mg (2 capsules) b.i.d. (400 mg/day) for 1 week. The pulses are separated by a 3-week period
without SPORANOX
®
.
Use in Patients with Renal Impairment:
Limited data are available on the use of oral itraconazole in patients with renal impairment. Caution
should be exercised when this drug is administered in this patient population. (See CLINICAL
PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations and PRECAUTIONS.)
Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment:
Limited data are available on the use of oral itraconazole in patients with hepatic impairment.
Caution should be exercised when this drug is administered in this patient population. (See
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations, WARNINGS, and PRECAUTIONS.)
HOW SUPPLIED
SPORANOX
®
(itraconazole) Capsules are available containing 100 mg of itraconazole, with a
blue opaque cap and pink transparent body, imprinted with “JANSSEN” and “SPORANOX 100.”
The capsules are supplied in unit-dose blister packs of 3 × 10 capsules (NDC 50458-290-01) and
bottles of 30 capsules (NDC 50458-290-04).
Store at controlled room temperature 15°-25°C (59°-77°F). Protect from light and moisture.
© 2023 Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies
Revised: 02/2024
Manufactured for:
Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Titusville, NJ 08560, USA
30
PATIENT INFORMATION
SPORANOX
®
(SPOR-ah-nox)
(itraconazole)
Capsules
Read this Patient Information that comes with SPORANOX before you start taking it and each time you get a refill.
There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider
about your medical condition or your treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about SPORANOX?
SPORANOX can cause serious side effects, including:
1. Heart failure. Do not take SPORANOX if you have had heart failure, including congestive heart failure.
Stop taking SPORANOX and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms
of congestive heart failure:
shortness of breath
swelling of your feet, ankles or legs
sudden weight gain
increased tiredness
coughing up white or pink mucus (phlegm)
fast heartbeat
waking up at night more than normal for you
2. Heart problems and other serious medical problems. Serious medical problems that affect the heart and
other parts of your body can happen if you take SPORANOX with certain other medicines. Do not take
SPORANOX if you also take the following medicines:
methadone
disopyramide
dofetilide
dronedarone
quinidine
isavuconazole
ergot alkaloids (such as
dihydroergotamine,
ergometrine ergonovine)
ergotamine
methylergometrine
(methylergonovine)
irinotecan
lurasidone
oral midazolam
pimozide
triazolam
felodipine
nisoldipine
ivabradine
ranolazine
eplerenone
cisapride
naloxegol
lomitapide
lovastatin
simvastatin
avanafil
ticagrelor
venetoclax (see below)
finerenone
voclosporin
Do not take SPORANOX with venetoclax for chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma when
you first start treatment with venetoclax or with increasing doses of venetoclax.
This is not a complete list of medicines that can interact with SPORANOX. SPORANOX may affect the way other
medicines work, and other medicines may affect how SPORANOX works. You can ask your pharmacist for a list
of medicines that interact with SPORANOX.
Before you start taking SPORANOX, tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including
prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Before you start any new medicine, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if it is safe to take it with
SPORANOX.
3. Liver problems. SPORANOX can cause serious liver problems which may be severe and lead to death. Stop
taking SPORANOX and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms of
liver problems:
tiredness
loss of appetite for several days or longer
nausea or vomiting
dark or “tea-colored” urine
your skin or the white part of your eyes turn yellow
(jaundice)
light-colored stools (bowel movement)
For more information about side effects, see “What are the possible side effects of SPORANOX?
What is SPORANOX?
SPORANOX is a prescription medicine used to treat the following fungal infections of the toenails, fingernails
and other parts of the body: blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, aspergillosis, and onychomycosis.
It is not known if SPORANOX is safe and effective in children.
Do not take SPORANOX if you:
have or have had heart failure, including congestive heart failure.
take certain medicines. See “What is the most important information I should know about SPORANOX?
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. SPORANOX can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare
provider right away if you become pregnant while taking SPORANOX. Females who are able to become
pregnant must use effective forms of birth control during treatment and for 2 months after stopping treatment with
SPORANOX.
31
are allergic to itraconazole or any of the ingredients in SPORANOX. See the end of this Patient Information
leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in SPORANOX.
Before taking SPORANOX, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if
you:
have heart problems.
have liver problems.
have kidney problems.
have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised).
have lung problems including cystic fibrosis.
are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. SPORANOX can pass into your breast milk. You and your healthcare
provider should decide if you will take SPORANOX or breastfeed.
Taking SPORANOX with certain medicines may affect each other. Taking SPORANOX with other medicines can
cause serious side effects.
How should I take SPORANOX?
Take SPORANOX exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will tell you how
much SPORANOX to take and when to take it.
You will receive SPORANOX capsules in a blister pack or bottle. Your healthcare provider will decide the type of
SPORANOX that is right for you.
Take SPORANOX with a full meal.
Swallow SPORANOX capsules whole.
You should not take SPORANOX oral solution instead of SPORANOX capsules, because they will not work the
same way.
If you take too much SPORANOX, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room
right away.
What should I avoid while taking SPORANOX?
SPORANOX can cause dizziness and vision problems. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how
SPORANOX affects you.
What are the possible side effects of SPORANOX?
SPORANOX may cause serious side effects, including:
See “What is the most important information I should know about SPORANOX?”
Nerve problems (neuropathy). Call your healthcare provider right away if you have tingling or numbness in
your hands or feet. Your healthcare provider may stop your treatment with SPORANOX if you have nerve
problems.
Hearing loss. Hearing loss can happen for a short time or permanently in some people who take SPORANOX.
Stop taking SPORANOX and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any changes in your hearing.
The most common side effects of SPORANOX include: headache, rash, digestive system problems (such as
nausea and vomiting), and edema.
Additional possible side effects include upset stomach, constipation, fever, inflammation of the pancreas, menstrual
disorder, erectile dysfunction, dizziness, muscle pain, painful joints, unpleasant taste, or hair loss.
These are not all the possible side effects of SPORANOX.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store SPORANOX?
Store SPORANOX at room temperature between 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).
Keep SPORANOX dry and away from light.
Keep SPORANOX and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of SPORANOX.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use
SPORANOX for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give SPORANOX to other people, even if they
have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about SPORANOX that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in SPORANOX?
Active ingredients: itraconazole
Inactive ingredients: hard gelatin capsule, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 20,000, titanium dioxide, FD&C
Blue No. 1, FD&C Blue No. 2, D&C Red No. 22 and D&C Red No. 28.
Manufactured for: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Titusville, NJ 08560, USA
© 2023 Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies
For more information or call 1-800-526-7736.
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Revised: 10/2023
cp-59756v9