Divigel

Divigel is an estrogen indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause.

1.1Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms

due to Menopause

1.1Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms

due to Menopause

Daily administration of 0.25 to 1.25 grams of Divigel to the right or left upper thigh on alternating days. Women should be started with the lowest effective dose and the dose should be evaluated periodically.

2.1Important Use Information The

timing of Divigel initiation can affect the overall benefit-risk profile. Consider initiating Divigel in women <60 years old or <10 years since menopause onset . When estrogen is prescribed for a menopausal woman with a uterus, the addition of a progestogen has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. There are possible risks associated with the use of progestogens plus estrogens that differ from those of estrogen-alone regimens.

See prescribing information for progestogens indicated for the prevention of endometrial hyperplasia in non-hysterectomized menopausal women receiving estrogens . Generally, a woman without a uterus, does not need to use a progestogen with estrogen therapy. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women with a history of endometriosis may benefit from the addition of a progestogen .

2.2Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms

due to Menopause Start therapy with the 0.25 grams applied once daily on the skin of either the right or left upper thigh. Adjust the dose up to a maximum of 1.25 grams, as needed. The application surface area should be about 5 by 7 inches (approximately the size of two palm prints).

The entire contents of a unit dose packet should be applied each day. To avoid potential skin irritation, apply Divigel to the right or left upper thigh on alternating days. Do not apply Divigel on the face, breasts, or irritated skin or in or around the vagina. Allow gel to dry after application before dressing.

Do not wash the application site within 1 hour after applying Divigel. Avoid contact of the gel with eyes. Wash hands after application.

Cardiovascular Disorders: Increased risk of PE, DVT, and stroke with estrogen-alone therapy. Discontinue if an arterial or venous thrombotic or thromboembolic event occurs. Estrogens increase the risk of gallbladder disease Discontinue estrogen if severe hypercalcemia, loss of vision, severe hypertriglyceridemia or cholestatic jaundice occurs ( 5.5 , 5.6 , 5.8 , 5.9 ) Monitor thyroid function in women on thyroid replacement therapy ( 5.10 , 5.21 )

5.1Cardiovascular Disorders Divigel

is contraindicated in women with active DVT, PE, stroke, or a history of these conditions . Immediately discontinue Divigel if a PE, DVT, or stroke, occurs or is suspected. If feasible, discontinue Divigel at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery of the type associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization. The safety and efficacy of Divigel for the prevention of cardiovascular disorders has not been established.

The Women’s Health Initiate (WHI) estrogen-alone trial reported increased risks of pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and stroke, in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age, average age 63.4 years) during 7.2 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogen (CE) [0.625 mg] relative to placebo. Analyses were also conducted in women aged 50-59 years, a group of women more likely to present with onset of moderate to severe VMS compared to women of other age groups in the trial. Only daily oral 0.625 mg CE was studied in the WHI estrogen-alone trial.

Therefore, the relevance of the WHI findings regarding adverse cardiovascular events to lower CE doses, other routes of administration, or other estrogen products is not known. Without such data, it is not possible to definitively exclude these risks or determine the extent of these risks for other products . Venous Thromboembolism In women aged 50-59 years, the WHI estrogen-alone trial reported a relative risk for PE of 1.53 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63, 3.75) for CE compared to placebo, with an absolute risk difference of 4 per 10,000 women-years (WYs; 10 versus 6). The relative risk for DVT was 1.66 (95% CI 0.75, 3.67) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of 5 per 10,000 WYs (13 versus 8).

In the overall study population of women aged 50-79 years, the WHI estrogen-alone trial reported a relative risk of PE of 1.35 (95% CI 0.89, 2.05) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of 4 per 10,000 WYs (14 versus 10). The relative risk for DVT was 1.48 (95% 1.06, 2.07) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of 7 per 10,000 WYs (23 versus 15) . Stroke In women aged 50-59 years, the WHI estrogen-alone trial reported a relative risk for stroke of 0.99 (95% 0.53, 1.85) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of -1 per 10,000 WYs (16 versus 17). In the overall study population of women aged 50-79 years, the WHI estrogen-alone trial reported a relative risk for stroke of 1.35 (95%, 1.07, 1.70) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of 11 per 10,000 WYs (45 versus 34) .

5.2Malignant Neoplasms Endometrial Cancer In Divigel-treated

menopausal women with a uterus with persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding of unknown etiology, perform adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, to assess for endometrial cancer. An increased risk of endometrial cancer has been reported with the use of unopposed estrogen therapy in a woman with a uterus. The reported endometrial cancer risk among unopposed estrogen users is about 2 to 12 times greater than in non-users and appears dependent on duration of treatment and on estrogen dose.

Most studies show no significant increased risk associated with use of estrogens for less than 1 year. The greatest risk appears to be associated with prolonged use, with increased risks of 15- to 24-fold for 5 to 10 years or more. This risk has been shown to persist for at least 8 to 15 years after estrogen therapy is discontinued.

There is no evidence that the use of natural estrogens results in a different endometrial risk profile than synthetic estrogens of equivalent estrogen dose. Adding a progestogen to estrogen-alone therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. There are, however, possible risks associated with the use of progestogens plus estrogens that differ from those of estrogen-alone regimens . Breast Cancer Surveillance measures for breast cancer, such as breast examinations and mammography, are recommended.

The use of estrogen-alone therapy has been reported to result in an increase in abnormal mammograms requiring further evaluation. In the WHI estrogen-alone trial, after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, daily CE-alone was not associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer. Among women 50-59 years old, the relative risk was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.50, 1.34) for CE compared to placebo, with a risk difference of -5 per 10,000 WYs (24 versus 29).

In the overall study population of women aged 50-79 years (average age 63.4 years), the relative risk was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.61, 1.02), with a risk difference of -7 per 10,000 WYs (28 versus 35). . However, a large meta-analysis including 24 prospective studies of postmenopausal women comparing current use of estrogen-only products with use duration of 5 to 14 years (average of 9 years) versus never use reported a relative risk for breast cancer of 1.33 (95% CI, 1.28 to 1.38). 1 Ovarian Cancer A large meta-analysis including 17 prospective studies of postmenopausal women compared current use of estrogen-only products versus never use and reported a relative risk for ovarian cancer of 1.37 (95% CI, 1.26 to 1.50). The duration of hormone therapy use that was associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer is unknown. 2

5.3Risks Associated with the Co-administration of Estrogen Plus

Progestogen Studies of the addition of a progestogen for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration, or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen, have reported a lowered incidence of endometrial hyperplasia than would be induced by estrogen treatment alone. Endometrial hyperplasia may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. If Divigel is administered with a progestogen, there are possible risks associated with the use of progestogens plus estrogens that differ from those of estrogen-alone regimens.

Refer to prescribing information for progestogens indicated for the prevention of endometrial hyperplasia in non-hysterectomized women receiving estrogens.

5.4Gallbladder Disease A

2- to 4-fold increase in the risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery in postmenopausal women receiving estrogens has been reported.

5.5Hypercalcemia Estrogen

administration may lead to severe hypercalcemia in women with breast cancer and bone metastases. Discontinue estrogens, including Divigel, if hypercalcemia occurs, and take appropriate measures to reduce the serum calcium level.

5.6Visual Abnormalities Retinal

vascular thrombosis has been reported in patients receiving estrogens. Discontinue Divigel pending examination if there is sudden partial or complete loss of vision, or a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. Permanently discontinue estrogens, including Divigel, if examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions.

5.7Elevated Blood Pressure In a

small number of case reports, substantial increases in blood pressure have been attributed to idiosyncratic reactions to estrogens. In a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a generalized effect of estrogens on blood pressure was not seen.

5.8Exacerbation of Hypertriglyceridemia In

women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis. Discontinue Divigel if pancreatitis occurs.

5.9Hepatic Impairment

and/or Past History of Cholestatic Jaundice Estrogens may be poorly metabolized in women with hepatic impairment. Exercise caution in any woman with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy. In the case of recurrence of cholestatic jaundice, discontinue Divigel.

5.10Exacerbation of Hypothyroidism Estrogen

administration leads to increased thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels. Women with normal thyroid function can compensate for the increased TBG by making more thyroid hormone, thus maintaining free T 4 and T 3 serum concentrations in the normal range. Women dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy who are also receiving estrogens may require increased doses of their thyroid replacement therapy.

Monitor thyroid function in these women during treatment with Divigel to maintain their free thyroid hormone levels in an acceptable range.

5.11Fluid Retention Estrogens

may cause some degree of fluid retention. Monitor any woman with a condition(s) that might predispose her to fluid retention, such as a cardiac or renal impairment. Discontinue estrogen-alone therapy, including Divigel, with evidence of medically concerning fluid retention.

5.12Hypocalcemia Estrogen-induced

hypocalcemia may occur in women with hypoparathyroidism. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy outweigh the risks in such women.

5.13Exacerbation of Endometriosis A

few cases of malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants have been reported in women treated post-hysterectomy with estrogen-alone therapy. Consider the addition of a progestogen therapy for a woman known to have residual endometriosis post-hysterectomy.

5.14Hereditary Angioedema Exogenous

estrogens may exacerbate symptoms of angioedema in women with hereditary angioedema. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy, including Divigel, outweigh the risks in such women.

5.15Exacerbation of Other Conditions Estrogen

therapy, including Divigel, may cause an exacerbation of asthma, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, migraine, porphyria, systemic lupus erythematosus, and hepatic hemangiomas. Consider whether the benefits of estrogen therapy outweigh the risks in women with such conditions.

5.16Photosensitivity The

effects of direct sun exposure to Divigel application sites have not been evaluated in clinical trials.

5.17Application of Sunscreen and Topical Solutions Studies

conducted using other approved topical estrogen gel products have shown that sunscreens have the potential for changing the systemic exposure of topically applied estrogen gels. The effect of sunscreens and other topical lotions on the systemic exposure of Divigel has not been evaluated in clinical trials.

5.18Flammability of Alcohol-Based Gels Alcohol

based gels are flammable. Avoid fire, flame, or smoking until Divigel has dried. Occlusion of the area where the topical drug product is applied with clothing or other barriers is not recommended until Divigel has completely dried.

5.19Potential for Estradiol Transfer and Effects of Washing

There is a potential for drug transfer from one individual to the other following physical contact of Divigel application sites. In a study to evaluate transferability to males from their female contacts, there was some elevation of estradiol levels over baseline in the male subjects; however, the degree of transferability in this study was inconclusive. Women are advised to avoid skin contact with other persons until the gel is completely dried.

The site of application should be covered (clothed) after drying. Washing the application site with soap and water 1 hour after application resulted in a 30 to 38 percent decrease in the mean total 24-hour exposure to estradiol. Therefore, women should refrain from washing the application site for at least one hour after application.

5.20Laboratory Tests Serum

follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels are not useful in the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms.

5.21Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions Accelerated

prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet aggregation time; increased platelet count; increased factors II, VII antigen, VIII antigen, VIII coagulant activity, IX, X, XII, VII-X complex, II-VII-X complex, and beta-thromboglobulin; decreased levels of anti-factor Xa and antithrombin III, decreased antithrombin III activity; increased levels of fibrinogen and fibrinogen activity; increased plasminogen antigen and activity. Increased thyroid binding globulin (TBG) levels leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone levels, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI), T 4 levels (by column or by radioimmunoassay) or T 3 levels by radioimmunoassay. T 3 resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T 4 and free T 3 concentrations are unaltered.

Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone. Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum, for example, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leading to increased total circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free hormone concentrations, such as testosterone and estradiol, may be decreased.

Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-l-antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin). Increased plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL 2 cholesterol subfraction concentrations, reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration, increased triglyceride levels. Impaired glucose tolerance.

Divigel is contraindicated in women with any of the following conditions: Abnormal genital bleeding of unknown etiology Current or history of breast cancer Estrogen-dependent neoplasia Active DVT, PE, or history of these conditions Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke or MI), or a history of these conditions Known anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, or hypersensitivity to Divigel Hepatic impairment or disease Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding Breast cancer or a history of breast cancer ( 4 , 5.2 ) Estrogen-dependent neoplasia ( 4 , 5.2 ) Active DVT, PE, or history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Active arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g., stroke and MI), or history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Known anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, or hypersensitivity to Divigel Hepatic impairment or disease ( 4 , 5.9 ) Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Divigel

is not indicated for use in pregnant women. There are no data with the use of Divigel in pregnant women; however, epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or nongenital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following exposure to combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogen and progestins) before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

8.2Lactation Risk Summary Estrogens

are present in human milk and can reduce milk production in breast-feeding women. This reduction can occur at any time but is less likely to occur once breast-feeding is well ­established. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Divigel and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from Divigel or from the underlying maternal condition.

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling: Cardiovascular Disorders . Malignant Neoplasms . The most common adverse reactions (incidence >5 percent and greater than placebo) in any Divigel treatment group are metrorrhagia, breast tenderness, vaginal mycosis, nasopharyngitis, and upper respiratory tract infection. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact VERTICAL PHARMACEUTICALS, LLC at 1-800-541-4802 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because

clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Divigel was studied at doses of 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 gram per day in a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that included a total of 495 postmenopausal women (86.5 percent Caucasian). The adverse reactions that occurred at a rate greater than 5 percent and greater than placebo in any of the treatment groups are summarized in Table 1.

In a 12-week placebo-controlled study of Divigel, application site reactions were seen in <1 percent of participating women. DivigelTable1

6.2Postmarketing Experience The

following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Divigel. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Genitourinary System Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, ovarian cyst, vaginal discharge Breasts Gynecomastia Cardiovascular Palpitations, ventricular extrasystoles Gastrointestinal Flatulence Skin Rash pruritic, urticaria Eyes Retinal vein occlusion Central Nervous System Tremor Miscellaneous Arthralgia, application site rash, asthenia, chest discomfort, fatigue, feeling abnormal, heart rate increased, insomnia, malaise, muscle spasms, pain in extremity, weight increased