Eraxis

Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Last updated on RxList: 5/30/2023

Drug Summary

What Is Eraxis?

Eraxis (anidulafungin) is an antifungal antibiotic that treats candida (yeast) infections in the blood, or in the stomach or esophagus.

What Are Side Effects of Eraxis?

Common side effects of Eraxis include:

  • flushing or hot flashes,
  • dizziness,
  • diarrhea,
  • constipation,
  • headache,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting, or
  • injection site reactions (pain, swelling, or irritation).

Tell your doctor if you have serious side effects of Eraxis including shortness of breath, dark urine, severe stomach or abdominal pain, yellowing eyes or skin, persistent nausea or vomiting, muscle weakness or spasm, vision changes, pain/redness/swelling of arms or legs, new signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising or bleeding, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, seizures, increased urination or thirst, or mental/mood changes.

Seek medical care or call 911 at once if you have the following serious side effects:

  • Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights;
  • Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in your chest; shortness of breath; and sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, or passing out;
  • Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors.

This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.

Dosage for Eraxis

The recommended dose of Eraxis to treat candidemia and other candida infections is a single 200 mg loading dose on Day 1, followed by 100 mg daily dose thereafter. The recommended dose to treat esophageal candidiasis is a single 100 mg loading dose on Day 1, followed by 50 mg daily dose thereafter.

What Drugs, Substances, or Supplements Interact with Eraxis?

Other drugs may interact with Eraxis. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Eraxis During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

During pregnancy, Eraxis should be used only when prescribed. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Additional Information

Our Eraxis (anidulafungin) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.

Description for Eraxis

ERAXIS for Injection is a sterile, lyophilized product for intravenous (IV) infusion that contains anidulafungin. ERAXIS (anidulafungin) is a semi-synthetic lipopeptide synthesized from a fermentation product of Aspergillus nidulans. Anidulafungin is an echinocandin, a class of antifungal drugs that inhibits the synthesis of 1,3-β-D-glucan, an essential component of fungal cell walls.

ERAXIS (anidulafungin) is 1-[(4R,5R)-4,5-dihydroxy-N2-[[4"-(pentyloxy)[1,1’:4’,1"-terphenyl]-4-yl]carbonyl]-Lornithine]echinocandin B. Anidulafungin is a white to off-white powder that is practically insoluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. In addition to the active ingredient, anidulafungin, ERAXIS for Injection contains the following inactive ingredients:

50 mg/vial -fructose (50 mg), mannitol (250 mg), polysorbate 80 (125 mg), tartaric acid (5.6 mg), and sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment.

100 mg/vial -fructose (100 mg), mannitol (500 mg), polysorbate 80 (250 mg), tartaric acid (11.2 mg), and sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment.

The empirical formula of anidulafungin is C58H73N7O17 and the formula weight is 1140.3.

The structural formula is:

ERAXI™ (anidulafungin) Structural Formula Illustration

Prior to administration, ERAXIS for Injection requires reconstitution with sterile Water for Injection and subsequent dilution with either 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline).

DO NOT dilute with other solutions or co-infuse with other medications or electrolytes [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Uses for Eraxis

Candidemia And Other Forms Of Candida Infections (Intra-Abdominal Abscess And Peritonitis)

ERAXIS is indicated for the treatment of candidemia and the following Candida infections: intra-abdominal abscess and peritonitis in adults and pediatric patients 1 month of age and older [see Clinical Studies and Microbiology].

Esophageal Candidiasis

ERAXIS is indicated for the treatment of esophageal candidiasis in adults [see Limitations Of Use, Clinical Studies].

Limitations Of Use

  • ERAXIS has not been studied in adult and pediatric patients with endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and meningitis due to Candida, and has not been studied in sufficient numbers of neutropenic patients to determine efficacy in this group. The dosage of ERAXIS for the treatment of Candida dissemination into the CNS and the eye has not been established [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Use In Specific Populations].
  • ERAXIS is associated with high relapse rates in esophageal candidiasis [see Clinical Studies].

Usage

Specimens for fungal culture and other relevant laboratory studies (including histopathology) should be obtained prior to therapy to isolate and identify causative organism(s). Therapy may be instituted before the results of the cultures and other laboratory studies are known. However, once these results become available, antifungal therapy should be adjusted accordingly.

Dosage for Eraxis

Recommended Dosage In Adults

Candidemia And Other Candida Infections (Intra-Abdominal Abscess And Peritonitis)

The recommended dose is a single 200 mg loading dose of ERAXIS on Day 1, followed by a 100 mg once daily maintenance dose thereafter. Duration of treatment should be based on the patient’s clinical response. In general, antifungal therapy should continue for at least 14 days after the last positive culture.

Esophageal Candidiasis

The recommended dose is a single 100 mg loading dose of ERAXIS on Day 1, followed by a 50 mg once daily maintenance dose thereafter. Patients should be treated for a minimum of 14 days and for at least 7 days following resolution of symptoms. Duration of treatment should be based on the patient’s clinical response. Because of the risk of relapse of esophageal candidiasis in patients with HIV infection, suppressive antifungal therapy may be considered after a course of treatment.

Recommended Dosage In Pediatric Patients (1 Month Of Age And Older)

Candidemia And Other Candida Infections (Intra-Abdominal Abscess And Peritonitis)

The recommended dose is a single loading dose of 3 mg/kg (not to exceed 200 mg) of ERAXIS on Day 1, followed by a once daily maintenance dose of 1.5 mg/kg (not to exceed 100 mg) of ERAXIS thereafter. Overall antifungal treatment should continue for at least 14 days after the last positive culture.

Preparation For Administration

ERAXIS for Injection must be reconstituted with sterile Water for Injection and subsequently diluted only with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline), prior to administration.

The compatibility of reconstituted ERAXIS with intravenous substances, additives, or medications other than 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline) has not been established. Do NOT dilute with other solutions or co-infuse with other medications or electrolytes. The infusion solution must not be frozen.

Reconstitution Of The 50 mg/Vial

Aseptically reconstitute each 50 mg vial with 15 mL of sterile Water for Injection to provide a concentration of 3.33 mg/mL.

Reconstitution Of The 100 mg/Vial

Aseptically reconstitute each 100 mg vial with 30 mL of sterile Water for Injection to provide a concentration of 3.33 mg/mL.

Storage Of The Reconstituted Solution

ERAXIS reconstituted solution can be stored at 25°C (77°F) for up to 24 hours prior to dilution into the infusion solution. Chemical and physical in-use stability of the reconstituted solution has been demonstrated for 24 hours at 25°C (77°F). From a microbiological point of view, following good aseptic practices, the reconstituted solution can be utilized for up to 24 hours when stored at 25°C.

Dilution And Administration Of The Infusion

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. If particulate matter or discoloration is identified, discard the solution.

Adult Patients

Aseptically transfer the contents of the reconstituted vial(s) into the appropriately sized IV bag (or bottle) containing either 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline). See Table 1 for the dilution to a concentration of 0.77 mg/mL for the final infusion solution and infusion instructions for each dose. The rate of infusion should not exceed 1.1 mg/minute (equivalent to 1.4 mL/minute or 84 mL/hour when reconstituted and diluted per instructions) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Table 1: Dilution Requirements for ERAXIS Administration

DoseNumber of Vials RequiredTotal Reconstituted Volume RequiredInfusion VolumeaTotal Infusion VolumebRate of InfusionMinimum Duration of Infusion
50 mg1–50 mg15 mL50 mL65 mL1.4 mL/min
or
84 mL/ hour
45 min
100 mg2–50 mg or 1–100 mg30 mL100 mL130 mL1.4 mL/min
or
84 mL/ hour
90 min
200 mg4–50 mg or 2–100 mg60 mL200 mL260 mL1.4 mL/min
or
84 mL/ hour
180 min
a Either 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline)
b Infusion solution concentration is 0.77 mg/mL

Pediatric Patients

The volume of infusion solution required to deliver the dose is dependent on the weight of the child. The reconstituted solution must be further diluted to a concentration of 0.77 mg/mL for the final infusion solution. A programmable syringe or infusion pump is recommended. The rate of infusion should not exceed 1.1 mg/minute (equivalent to 1.4 mL/minute or 84 mL/hour when reconstituted and diluted per instructions) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Steps for the Preparation of Pediatric Doses below 50 mg

  1. Calculate pediatric patient dose and aseptically reconstitute vial(s) required according to reconstitution instructions to provide a concentration of 3.33 mg/mL (if dose is 50 mg or above, see preparation instructions for Adult Patients above) [see Recommended Dosage In Pediatric Patients (1 Month Of Age And Older), Preparation For Administration].
  2. Calculate the volume (mL) of reconstituted ERAXIS required:
    [Volume of reconstituted ERAXIS (mL) = Dose of ERAXIS (mg) ÷ 3.33 mg/mL]
  3. Calculate the total volume of the infusion solution (mL) that contains a final concentration of 0.77 mg/mL:
    [Total volume of infusion solution (mL) = Dose of ERAXIS (mg) ÷ 0.77 mg/mL]
  4. Calculate the volume of diluent [5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline)] required to prepare the infusion solution:[Volume of diluent (mL) = Total volume of final infusion solution (mL) – Volume of reconstituted ERAXIS (mL)]
  5. Prepare the infusion solution by aseptically transferring the required volumes (mL) of the reconstituted ERAXIS and diluent [5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (normal saline)] into an infusion syringe or IV infusion bag needed for administration.
Storage Of The Infusion Solution

ERAXIS infusion solution can be stored at temperatures up to 25°C (77°F) for up to 48 hours. Do not freeze. Chemical and physical in-use stability of the infusion solution has been demonstrated for 48 hours at 25°C (77°F). From a microbiological point of view, following good aseptic practices, the infusion solution can be utilized for up to 48 hours from preparation when stored at 25°C.

HOW SUPPLIED

Dosage Forms And Strenghts

For Injection

50 mg, and 100 mg of anidulafungin as a white to off-white sterile lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution.

Storage And Handling

ERAXIS (anidulafungin) for Injection is supplied in a single-dose vial of sterile, lyophilized, preservative-free, white to off-white powder. ERAXIS (anidulafungin) is available in the following packaging configuration:

Single-Dose Vial of ERAXIS 50 mg
NDC 0049-0114-28 - One - 50 mg vial

Single-Dose Vial of ERAXIS 100 mg
NDC 0049-0116-28 - One - 100 mg vial

Storage

ERAXIS Vials

ERAXIS (unreconstituted) vials should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F). Do not freeze.

Excursions for 96 hours up to 25°C (77°F) are permitted, and the vial can be returned to storage at 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F).

Reconstituted Solution

ERAXIS reconstituted solution can be stored at up to 25°C (77°F) for up to 24 hours [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Infusion Solution

ERAXIS infusion solution can be stored at temperatures up to 25°C (77°F) for up to 48 hours. Do not freeze [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Distributed by: Pfizer Injectables, Roerig, Divison of Pfizer Inc, New York, NY 10017. Revised: Sep 2020

Side Effects for Eraxis

The following most serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in other labeling sections:

  • Hepatic Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Anaphylactic and Hypersensitivity Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]

Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

Clinical Trials Experience In Adults

The safety of ERAXIS for Injection was assessed in 929 individuals, including 257 healthy subjects and 672 patients in clinical trials of candidemia, other forms of Candida infections, and esophageal candidiasis. A total of 633 patients received ERAXIS at daily doses of either 50 mg or 100 mg. A total of 481 patients received ERAXIS for ≥14 days.

Candidemia/other Candida Infections

Three trials (one comparative vs. fluconazole, two non-comparative) assessed the efficacy and safety of ERAXIS (100 mg) in patients with candidemia and other Candida infections.

The data described below reflect exposure to ERAXIS and fluconazole in 127 and 118 patients, respectively, with candidemia and other forms of invasive candidiasis, in the randomized, comparative trial of the efficacy and safety of ERAXIS to that of fluconazole. In ERAXIS-treated patients, the age range was 16-89 years, the gender distribution was 51% male and 49% female, and the race distribution was 72% White, 18% Black/African American, 9% other races. Patients were randomized to receive once daily IV ERAXIS (200 mg loading dose followed by 100 mg maintenance dose) or IV fluconazole (800 mg loading dose followed by 400 mg maintenance dose). Treatment was administered for at least 14 and not more than 42 days.

The number of patients with adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of study medication was 11.5% in the ERAXIS arm and 21.6% in the fluconazole arm. The most common adverse reactions leading to study drug discontinuation were multi-organ failure (2.3%) and systemic Candida infection (1.5%) in the ERAXIS arm.

Table 2 presents adverse reactions that were reported in ≥5% of subjects receiving ERAXIS or fluconazole therapy in this trial.

Table 2: Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥5% of Adult Patients Receiving ERAXIS or Fluconazole Therapy for Candidemia/other Candida Infections*, **

Adverse ReactionERAXIS
100 mg
N=131
Fluconazole
400 mg
N=125
N (%)N (%)
Subjects with a least one adverse reaction130 (99)122 (98)
Gastrointestinal disorders81 (62)72 (58)
  Nausea32 (24)15 (12)
  Diarrhea24 (18)23 (18)
  Vomiting23 (18)12 (10)
  Constipation11 (8)14 (11)
  Abdominal pain8 (6)16 (13)
General disorders and administration site conditions70 (53)76 (61)
  Pyrexia23 (18)23 (18)
  Edema peripheral14 (11)16 (13)
  Chest pain7 (5)6 (5)
Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders67 (51)55 (44)
  Dyspnea15 (12)4 (3)
  Pleural effusion13 (10)11 (9)
  Cough9 (7)7 (6)
  Respiratory distress8 (6)2 (2)
Investigations66 (50)46 (37)
  Blood alkaline phosphatase increased15 (12)14 (11)
  White blood cell increased11 (8)3 (2)
  Hepatic enzyme increased7 (5)14 (11)
  Blood creatinine increased7 (5)1 (1)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders61 (47)61 (49)
  Hypokalemia33 (25)24 (19)
  Hypomagnesemia15 (12)14 (11)
  Hypoglycemia9 (7)10 (8)
  Hyperkalemia8 (6)14 (11)
  Hyperglycemia8 (6)8 (6)
  Dehydration8 (6)2 (2)
Vascular disorders50 (38)41 (33)
  Hypotension19 (15)18 (14)
  Hypertension15 (12)5 (4)
  Deep vein thrombosis13 (10)9 (7)
Psychiatric disorders48 (37)45 (36)
  Insomnia20 (15)12 (10)
  Confusional state10 (8)10 (8)
  Depression8 (6)5 (4)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders34 (26)36 (29)
  Anemia12 (9)20 (16)
  Thrombocythemia8 (6)1 (1)
  Leukocytosis7 (5)6 (5)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders30 (23)32 (26)
  Decubitus ulcer7 (5)10 (8)
Nervous system disorders27 (21)31 (25)
  Headache11 (8)10 (8)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders27 (21)25 (20)
  Back pain7 (5)13 (10)
*A patient who experienced multiple reactions within a Body System or preferred term was counted one time for that class, one time for the preferred term and one time for “subjects with at least one adverse reaction”.
** This trial was not designed to support comparative claims for ERAXIS for the adverse reactions reported in this table.

Esophageal Candidiasis

The data described below reflect exposure to ERAXIS and fluconazole in 300 and 301 patients, respectively, with esophageal candidiasis in a randomized trial comparing the efficacy and safety of ERAXIS to that of oral fluconazole. In ERAXIS-treated patients, the age range was 18-68 years, the gender distribution was 42% male and 58% female and the race distribution was 15% White, 49% Black/African American, 15% Asian, 0.3 % Hispanic, 21% other races. Patients were randomized to receive IV ERAXIS (100 mg on day 1, followed by 50 mg per day) or oral fluconazole (200 mg on day 1, followed by 100 mg per day) for 7 days beyond resolution of symptoms (range, 14-21 days).

Twenty-eight (9%) patients in the ERAXIS arm and 36 (12%) patients in the fluconazole arm had adverse reactions related to study medication. The most common adverse reactions leading to study discontinuation were maculopapular rash (1 patient) for the ERAXIS arm. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were rash (1 patient) and increased AST (1 patient) for the fluconazole arm.

Table 3 presents adverse reactions that were reported in ≥5% of subjects receiving ERAXIS therapy.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥5% of Adult Patients Receiving ERAXIS or Fluconazole Therapy for Esophageal Candidiasis*, **

Adverse ReactionERAXIS
50 mg
N=300
Fluconazole
100 mg
N=301
N (%)N (%)
Subjects with a least one adverse reaction239 (80)227 (75)
Infections and infestations115 (38)99 (33)
  Oral candidiasis15 (5)10 (3)
Gastrointestinal disorders106 (35)113 (38)
  Diarrhea27 (9)26 (9)
  Vomiting27 (7)30 (10)
  Nausea20 (7)23 (8)
  Dyspepsia20 (7)21 (7)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders55 (18)50 (17)
  Anemia25 (8)22 (7)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders50 (17)46 (15)
  Hypokalemia14 (5)17 (6)
General disorders and administration site condition49 (16)54 (18)
  Pyrexia27 (9)28 (9)
Nervous system disorders39 (13)36 (12)
  Headache25 (8)20 (7)
*A patient who experienced multiple reactions within a Body System or preferred term was counted one time for that class, one time for the preferred term and one time for “subjects with at least one adverse reaction”.
**This trial was not designed to support comparative claims for ERAXIS for the adverse reactions reported in this table.

Less Common Adverse Reactions in Adult Patients with Candidemia/other Candida Infections and Esophageal Candidiasis

The following selected adverse reactions occurred in <2% of patients:

Blood and Lymphatic: coagulopathy, thrombocytopenia
Cardiac: atrial fibrillation, bundle branch block (right), sinus arrhythmia, ventricular extrasystoles
Eye: eye pain, vision blurred, visual disturbance
General and Administration Site: infusion related reaction, peripheral edema, rigors
Hepatobiliary: abnormal liver function tests, cholestasis, hepatic necrosis
Infections: clostridial infection
Investigations: amylase increased, bilirubin increased, CPK increased, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, gamma-glutamyl transferase increased, lipase increased, potassium decreased, prothrombin time prolonged, urea increased
Nervous System: convulsion, dizziness
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal: cough
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: angioneurotic edema, erythema, pruritus, sweating increased, urticaria
Vascular: flushing, hot flushes, thrombophlebitis superficial

Clinical Trials Experience In Pediatric Patients With Candidemia/Invasive Candidiasis

The safety of ERAXIS was investigated in 68 pediatric patients from 1 month to less than 18 years of age with candidemia/invasive candidiasis in a prospective, open-label, non-comparative pediatric trial [see Clinical Studies]. Overall, the safety profile of ERAXIS in the pediatric patients 1 month and older was similar to that of adults.

Most Common Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions occurring in ≥5% of pediatric patients receiving ERAXIS therapy in the clinical trial are displayed by body system in Table 4.

Table 4 Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥5% of Pediatric Patients Receiving ERAXIS Therapy for Candidemia/other Candida Infections*,**

Adverse Reaction1 month to <2 years
N=19
2 to <5 years
N=19
5 to <18 years
N=30
Overall
N=68
n (%)n (%)n (%)n (%)
Subjects with a least one adverse reaction17 (90)14 (74)24 (80)55 (81)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders9 (47)3 (16)4 (13)16 (24)
  Anemia5 (26)2 (11)07 (10)
  Thrombocytopenia2 (11)1 (5)1 (3)4 (6)
Gastrointestinal disorders8 (42)8 (42)12 (40)28 (41)
  Diarrhea4 (21)2 (11)5 (17)11 (16)
  Vomiting4 (21)5 (26)2 (7)11 (16)
  Abdominal paina04 (21)2 (7)6 (9)
General disorders and administration site condition5 (26)6 (32)9 (30)20 (29)
  Pyrexia4 (21)3 (16)5 (17)12 (18)
Laboratory Investigations4 (21)4 (21)8 (27)16 (24)
  Alanine aminotransferase increased2 (11)2 (11)2 (7)6 (9)
  Aspartate aminotransferase increased2 (11)1 (5)1 (3)4 (6)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders3 (16)4 (21)6 (20)13 (19)
  Hypoglycemia1 (5)2 (11)1 (3)4 (6)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders5 (26)5 (26)5 (17)15 (22)
  Epistaxis1 (5)2 (11)3 (10)6 (9)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders6 (32)5 (26)5 (17)16 (24)
  Rashb3 (16)1 (5)2 (7)6 (9)
* Reflects adverse reactions including those that started on or after first dose of anidulafungin through 6-week follow-up for patients who did not receive oral fluconazole, and those that started between first dose and last dose of anidulafungin for patients who received oral fluconazole.
** A patient who experienced multiple reactions within a Body System or preferred term was counted one time for that class, one time for the preferred term and one time for “subjects with at least one adverse reaction”.
a Includes such terms as: abdominal pain and abdominal pain upper.
b Includes such terms as: rash and rash generalized.

Other adverse reactions were reported in 2 or more pediatric patients and in less than 5% of the 68 pediatric patients treated with ERAXIS in the clinical trial:

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: pancytopenia, thrombocytosis, febrile neutropenia, leukopenia, neutropenia
Eye Disorders: Periorbital edema
Gastrointestinal Disorders: gastroesophageal reflux disease, abdominal distension, nausea, stomatitis, dry mouth
General Disorders and Administrative Site Conditions: chest pain, edema peripheral
Infections and Infestations: bacteremia, device related infection, gastroenteritis, lower respiratory tract infection, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection
Laboratory Investigations: gamma-glutamyltransferase increased, transaminases increased
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypoproteinemia
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: back pain, pain in extremity
Nervous System Disorders: headache, tremor, seizure
Psychiatric Disorders: agitation
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: hemoptysis
Vascular Disorders: hypotension

Post-Marketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of anidulafungin. 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.

Immune: Anaphylactic shock, anaphylactic reaction, bronchospasm [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Drug Interactions for Eraxis

Cyclosporine

Administration of multiple doses of anidulafungin and cyclosporine to healthy subjects resulted in no significant alteration in the steady state pharmacokinetics of either drug. No dosage adjustment of cyclosporine or anidulafungin is needed when the two drugs are co-administered [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Voriconazole

Administration of multiple doses of anidulafungin and voriconazole to healthy subjects resulted in no significant alteration in the steady state pharmacokinetics of either drug. No dosage adjustment of voriconazole or anidulafungin is needed when the two drugs are co-administered [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Tacrolimus

Administration of multiple doses of anidulafungin and a single-dose of tacrolimus to healthy subjects resulted in no significant alteration in the steady state pharmacokinetics of either drug. No dosage adjustment of tacrolimus or anidulafungin is needed when the two drugs are co-administered [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Rifampin

Administration of multiple doses of anidulafungin and rifampin to patients resulted in no significant alteration in the steady state pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin. No dosage adjustment of anidulafungin is needed when it is co-administered with rifampin [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Amphotericin B Liposome For Injection

Administration of multiple doses of anidulafungin and liposomal amphotericin B to patients resulted in no significant alteration in the steady state pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin. No dosage adjustment of anidulafungin is needed when it is co-administered with liposomal amphotericin B [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Warnings for Eraxis

Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section

Precautions for Eraxis

Hepatic Adverse Reactions

Laboratory abnormalities in liver tests have been seen in healthy volunteers and pediatric patients treated with ERAXIS. In some patients with serious underlying medical conditions who were receiving multiple concomitant medications along with ERAXIS, clinically significant hepatic abnormalities have occurred. Isolated cases of significant hepatic dysfunction, hepatitis, or hepatic failure have been reported in patients; a causal relationship to ERAXIS has not been established [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and Nonclinical Toxicology]. Patients who develop abnormal liver tests during ERAXIS therapy should be monitored for evidence of worsening hepatic tests and evaluated for risk/benefit of continuing ERAXIS therapy.

Anaphylactic And Hypersensitivity Reactions

Anaphylactic reactions, including shock were reported with the use of ERAXIS. If these reactions occur, ERAXIS should be discontinued and appropriate treatment administered [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Infusion-related adverse reactions, possibly histamine-mediated, have been reported with ERAXIS, including rash, urticaria, flushing, pruritus, bronchospasm, dyspnea, and hypotension [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. To reduce occurrence of these reactions, do not exceed a rate of ERAXIS infusion of 1.1 mg/minute [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Risk Of Neonatal Toxicity Associated With Polysorbates

ERAXIS contains polysorbate 80, an inactive ingredient. Thrombocytopenia, renal dysfunction, hepatomegaly, cholestasis, ascites, hypotension, and metabolic acidosis have been reported in low-birth weight infants receiving high doses of polysorbate. Polysorbate toxicity has not been reported with ERAXIS. ERAXIS is not approved in pediatric patients younger than 1 month of age [see INDICATIONS, Use In Specific Populations].

Risk In Patients With Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI)

ERAXIS contains fructose, an inactive ingredient, and may precipitate a metabolic crisis that may include, but is not limited to life-threatening hypoglycemia, hypophosphatemia, lactic acidosis, and hepatic failure in patients with HFI. Obtain careful history of HFI symptoms (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) with fructose/sucrose exposure prior to ERAXIS administration because a diagnosis of HFI may not yet be established in pediatric patients [see CONTRAINDICATIONS and Use In Specific Populations].

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Long-term animal carcinogenicity studies of anidulafungin have not been conducted.

Anidulafungin was not genotoxic in the following in vitro studies: bacterial reverse mutation assays, a chromosome aberration assay with Chinese hamster ovary cells, and a forward gene mutation assay with mouse lymphoma cells. Anidulafungin was not genotoxic in mice using the in vivo micronucleus assay.

Anidulafungin produced no adverse effects on fertility in male or female rats at intravenous doses of 20 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 2 times the proposed therapeutic maintenance dose of 100 mg/day on the basis of relative body surface area).

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Based on findings from animal studies, ERAXIS can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available human data on the use of ERAXIS in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. In animal reproduction studies fetal toxicity was observed in the presence of maternal toxicity when anidulafungin was administered to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis at 4 times the proposed therapeutic maintenance dose of 100 mg/day on the basis of relative body surface area (see Data). Inform pregnant woman of the risk to the fetus.

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. 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.

Data

Animal Data

In a combined fertility and embryo-fetal development study in rats dosed with anidulafungin for 4 weeks prior to cohabitation and through cohabitation for males or for 2 weeks prior to cohabitation and continuing through gestation day 19 for females, there was no maternal or embryo-fetal toxicity at intravenous doses up to 20 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 2 times the proposed therapeutic maintenance dose of 100 mg/day on the basis of relative body surface area).

In a rabbit embryo-fetal development study, intravenous administration of anidulafungin (0, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day) from gestation day 7 through 19, resulted in reduced fetal weights and incomplete ossification in the presence of maternal toxicity (decreased body weight gain) at 20 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 4 times the proposed therapeutic maintenance dose of 100 mg/day on the basis of relative body surface area).

In a pre- and postnatal development study, pregnant rats were intravenously administered anidulafungin at doses of 2, 6, or 20 mg/kg/day from gestation day 7 through lactation day 20. Maternal toxicity was observed at ≥6 mg/kg/day (clinical signs at ≥6 mg/kg/day and reduced body weight gain and food consumption during gestation at 20 mg/kg/day group). There were no effects on the viability or growth and development of the offspring. In this study, anidulafungin was detected in fetal plasma, indicating that it crossed the placental barrier.

Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of anidulafungin in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. Anidulafungin was found in the milk of lactating rats (see Data).

The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ERAXIS and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from ERAXIS or from the underlying maternal condition.

Data

Animal Data

Pregnant rats were intravenously administered anidulafungin at doses of 2, 6, or 20 mg/kg/day from gestation day 7 through lactation day 20. Milk samples were collected from 5 rats per group on lactation day 14 at approximately 1 hours post dose. Approximately dose-proportional anidulafungin concentrations were found in the milk of lactating rats.

Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of ERAXIS for the treatment of candidemia and the following Candida infections: intra-abdominal abscess and peritonitis, have been established in pediatric patients 1 month of age and older. Use of ERAXIS for this indication in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults with additional pharmacokinetic, safety data in pediatric patients 1 month of age and older [see INDICATIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, and Clinical Studies].

The safety and effectiveness of ERAXIS in patients younger than 1 month of age with candidemia/invasive candidiasis has not been established.

Candidemia/invasive candidiasis in pediatric patients younger than 1 month of age has a higher rate of central nervous system (CNS) and multi-organ dissemination than in older patients. In addition, in patients younger than 1 month of age ERAXIS carries a potential risk of life-threatening toxicity associated with high doses of polysorbate 80, an inactive ingredient in ERAXIS [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

The safety and effectiveness of ERAXIS in pediatric patients with esophageal candidiasis has not been established.

ERAXIS is contraindicated in adult and pediatric patients with HFI. Because a diagnosis of HFI may not yet be established in pediatric patients, obtain a careful history of HFI symptoms with fructose/sucrose exposure prior to administration of ERAXIS [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Geriatric Use

Of the total number of subjects (N = 197) in the pivotal clinical studies of anidulafungin, 35% were 65 years and over, while 18% were 75 years and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Dosage adjustments are not required for geriatric patients [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Hepatic Insufficiency

No dosing adjustments are required for patients with any degree of hepatic insufficiency. Anidulafungin is not hepatically metabolized. Anidulafungin pharmacokinetics were examined in subjects with Child-Pugh class A, B or C hepatic insufficiency. Anidulafungin concentrations were not increased in subjects with any degree of hepatic insufficiency. Though a slight decrease in AUC was observed in patients with Child-Pugh C hepatic insufficiency, it was within the range of population estimates noted for healthy subjects [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Renal Insufficiency

Dosage adjustments are not required for patients with any degree of renal insufficiency including those on hemodialysis. Anidulafungin has negligible (<1%) renal clearance. In a clinical study of subjects with mild, moderate, severe or end stage (dialysis-dependent) renal insufficiency, anidulafungin pharmacokinetics were similar to those observed in subjects with normal renal function. Anidulafungin is not dialyzable and may be administered without regard to the timing of hemodialysis [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Overdose Information for Eraxis

During clinical trials a single 400 mg dose of ERAXIS was inadvertently administered as a loading dose. No clinical adverse events were reported. In a study of 10 healthy subjects administered a loading dose of 260 mg followed by 130 mg daily; 3 of the 10 subjects experienced transient, asymptomatic transaminase elevations (≤3 x ULN) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Anidulafungin Is Not Dialyzable

The maximum non-lethal dose of anidulafungin in rats was 50 mg/kg, a dose which is equivalent to 10 times the recommended daily dose for esophageal candidiasis (50 mg/day) or equivalent to 5 times the recommended daily dose for candidemia and other Candida infections (100 mg/day), based on relative body surface area comparisons.

Contraindications for Eraxis

ERAXIS is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to anidulafungin, any component of ERAXIS, or other echinocandins [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Patients with known or suspected Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]

Clinical Pharmacology for Eraxis

Mechanism Of Action

Anidulafungin is an anti-fungal drug [see Microbiology].

Pharmacokinetics

General Pharmacokinetic Characteristics

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin following intravenous (IV) administration have been characterized in healthy subjects, special populations and patients. Systemic exposures of anidulafungin are dose-proportional and have low intersubject variability (coefficient of variation <25%) as shown in Table 4. The steady state was achieved on the first day after a loading dose (twice the daily maintenance dose) and the estimated plasma accumulation factor at steady state is approximately 2.

Table 4: Mean (%CV) Steady State Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Anidulafungin Following IV Administration of Anidulafungin Once Daily for 10 Days in Healthy Adult Subjects

PK Parameter*Anidulafungin IV Dosing Regimen (LD/MD, mg)†
70/35‡,§
(N=6)
200/100
(N=10)
260/130§,¶
(N=10)
Cmax, ss [mg/L]3.55 (13.2)8.6 (16.2)10.9 (11.7)
AUCss [mg•h/L]42.3 (14.5)111.8 (24.9)168.9 (10.8)
CL [L/h]0.84 (13.5)0.94 (24.0)0.78 (11.3)
t½ [h]43.2 (17.7)52.0 (11.7)50.3 (9.7)
Cmaxss = the steady state peak concentration
AUCss = the steady state area under concentration vs. time curve
CL = clearance
t ½= the terminal elimination half-life
*Parameters were obtained from separate studies
†LD/MD: loading dose/maintenance dose once daily
‡Data were collected on Day 7
§Safety and efficacy of these doses has not been established
¶See OVERDOSAGE

The clearance of anidulafungin is about 1 L/h and anidulafungin has a terminal elimination half-life of 40–50 hours.

Distribution

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin following IV administration are characterized by a short distribution half-life (0.5–1 hour) and a volume of distribution of 30–50 L that is similar to total body fluid volume. Anidulafungin is extensively bound (>99%) to human plasma proteins.

Metabolism

Hepatic metabolism of anidulafungin has not been observed. Anidulafungin is not a clinically relevant substrate, inducer, or inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes. It is unlikely that anidulafungin will have clinically relevant effects on the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP450 isoenzymes.

Anidulafungin undergoes slow chemical degradation at physiologic temperature and pH to a ring-opened peptide that lacks antifungal activity. The in vitro degradation half-life of anidulafungin under physiologic conditions is about 24 hours. In vivo, the ring-opened product is subsequently converted to peptidic degradants and eliminated.

Excretion

In a single-dose clinical study, radiolabeled (14C) anidulafungin was administered to healthy subjects. Approximately 30% of the administered radioactive dose was eliminated in the feces over 9 days, of which less than 10% was intact drug. Less than 1% of the administered radioactive dose was excreted in the urine. Anidulafungin concentrations fell below the lower limits of quantitation 6 days post-dose. Negligible amounts of drugderived radioactivity were recovered in blood, urine, and feces 8 weeks post-dose.

Specific Populations

Patients With Fungal Infections

Population pharmacokinetic analyses from four clinical trials including 107 male and 118 female patients with fungal infections showed that the pharmacokinetic parameters of anidulafungin are not affected by age, race, or the presence of concomitant medications which are known metabolic substrates, inhibitors or inducers.

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin in patients with fungal infections are similar to those observed in healthy subjects. The pharmacokinetic parameters of anidulafungin estimated using population pharmacokinetic modeling following IV administration of a maintenance dose of 50 mg/day or 100 mg/day (following a loading dose) are presented in Table 5.

Table 5: Mean (%CV) Steady State Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Anidulafungin Following IV Administration of Anidulafungin in Patients with Fungal Infections Estimated Using Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling

PK Parameter*Anidulafungin IV Dosing Regimen (LD/MD, mg)†
100/50200/100
Cmax, ss [mg/L]4.2 (22.4)7.2 (23.3)
Cmin, ss [mg/L]1.6 (42.1)3.3 (41.8)
AUCSS [mg•h/L]55.2 (32.5)110.3 (32.5)
CL [L/h]1.0 (33.5)
t½,β,[h]‡26.5 (28.5)
*All the parameters were estimated by population modeling using a two-compartment model with first order elimination; AUCss, Cmaxss, and Cminss (steady state trough plasma concentration) were estimated using individual PK parameters and infusion rate of 1 mg/min to administer recommended doses of 50 and 100 mg/day.
†LD/MD: loading dose/daily maintenance dose
‡ t½β is the predominant elimination half-life that characterizes the majority of the concentration-½, β time profile

Gender

Dosage adjustments are not required based on gender. Plasma concentrations of anidulafungin in healthy men and women were similar. In multipledose patient studies, drug clearance was slightly faster (approximately 22%) in men.

Geriatric

Dosage adjustments are not required for geriatric patients. The population pharmacokinetic analysis showed that median clearance differed slightly between the elderly group (patients ≥65, median CL=1.07 L/h) and the non-elderly group (patients <65, median CL=1.22 L/h) and the range of clearance was similar.

Race

Dosage adjustments are not required based on race. Anidulafungin pharmacokinetics were similar among Whites, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics.

HIV Status

Dosage adjustments are not required based on HIV status, irrespective of concomitant anti-retroviral therapy.

Hepatic Insufficiency

Anidulafungin is not hepatically metabolized. Anidulafungin pharmacokinetics were examined in subjects with Child-Pugh class A, B or C hepatic insufficiency. Anidulafungin concentrations were not increased in subjects with any degree of hepatic insufficiency. Though a slight decrease in AUC was observed in patients with Child-Pugh C hepatic insufficiency, it was within the range of population estimates noted for healthy subjects [see Use In Specific Populations].

Renal Insufficiency

Anidulafungin has negligible renal clearance. In a clinical study of subjects with mild, moderate, severe or end stage (dialysis-dependent) renal insufficiency, anidulafungin pharmacokinetics were similar to those observed in subjects with normal renal function. Anidulafungin is not dialyzable and may be administered without regard to the timing of hemodialysis [see Use In Specific Populations].

Pediatric

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin after daily doses were investigated in immunocompromised pediatric (2 through 11 years) and adolescent (12 through 17 years) patients with neutropenia. The steady state was achieved on the first day after administration of the loading dose (twice the maintenance dose), and the Cmax and AUCss increased in a dose-proportional manner. Concentrations and exposures following administration of maintenance doses of 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg/day in this population were similar to those observed in adults following maintenance doses of 50 and 100 mg/day, respectively (as shown in Table 6).

Table 6: Mean (%CV) Steady State Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Anidulafungin Following IV Administration of Anidulafungin Once Daily in Pediatric Subjects

PK Parameter*Anidulafungin IV Dosing Regimen (LD/MD, mg/kg)†
1.5/0.753.0/1.5
Age Group ‡2-11 years
(N = 6)
12-17 years
(N = 6)
2-11 years
(N = 6)
12-17 years
(N = 6)
Cmax, ss [mg/L]3.32 (50.0)4.35 (22.5)7.57 (34.2)6.88 (24.3)
AUCss [mg•h/L]41.1 (38.4)56.2 (27.8)96.1 (39.5)102.9 (28.2)
*Data were collected on Day 5
†LD/MD: loading dose/daily maintenance dose
‡Safety and effectiveness has not been established in pediatric patients ≤16 years of age

Drug Interactions

In vitro studies showed that anidulafungin is not metabolized by human cytochrome P450 or by isolated human hepatocytes, and does not significantly inhibit the activities of human CYP isoforms (1A2, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6 and 3A) in clinically relevant concentrations. No clinically relevant drug-drug interactions were observed with drugs likely to be co-administered with anidulafungin.

Cyclosporine (CYP3A4 substrate)

In a study in which 12 healthy adult subjects received 100 mg/day maintenance dose of anidulafungin following a 200 mg loading dose (on Days 1 to 8) and in combination with 1.25 mg/kg oral cyclosporine twice daily (on Days 5 to 8), the steady state C of anidulafungin was not significantly altered by cyclosporine; the steady state AUC of anidulafungin was increased by 22%. A separate in vitro study showed that anidulafungin has no effect on the metabolism of cyclosporine [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Voriconazole (CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP3A4 inhibitor and substrate)

In a study in which 17 healthy subjects received 100 mg/day maintenance dose of anidulafungin following a 200 mg loading dose, 200 mg twice daily oral voriconazole (following two 400 mg loading doses) and both in combination, the steady state Cmax and AUC of anidulafungin and voriconazole were not significantly altered by co-administration [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Tacrolimus (CYP3A4 substrate)

In a study in which 35 healthy subjects received a single oral dose of 5 mg tacrolimus (on Day 1), 100 mg/day maintenance dose of anidulafungin following a 200 mg loading dose (on Days 4 to 12) and both in combination (on Day 13), the steady state Cmax and AUC of anidulafungin and tacrolimus were not significantly altered by co-administration [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Rifampin (potent CYP450 inducer)

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin were examined in 27 patients that were co-administered anidulafungin and rifampin. The population pharmacokinetic analysis showed that when compared to data from patients that did not receive rifampin, the pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin were not significantly altered by co-administration with rifampin [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Amphotericin B liposome For injection

The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin were examined in 27 patients that were co-administered liposomal amphotericin B. The population pharmacokinetic analysis showed that when compared to data from patients that did not receive amphotericin B, the pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin were not significantly altered by co-administration with amphotericin B [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Microbiology

Mechanism Of Action

Anidulafungin is a semi-synthetic echinocandin with antifungal activity. Anidulafungin inhibits glucan synthase, an enzyme present in fungal, but not mammalian cells. This results in inhibition of the formation of 1,3-β-D-glucan, an essential component of the fungal cell wall.

Resistance

Echinocandin resistance is due to point mutations within the genes (FKS1 and FKS2) encoding for subunits in the glucan synthase enzyme complex. There have been reports of Candida isolates with reduced susceptibility to anidulafungin, suggesting a potential for development of drug resistance. The clinical significance of this observation is not fully understood.

Antimicrobial Activity

Anidulafungin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections:

Candida albicans
Candida glabrata
Candida parapsilosis
Candida tropicalis

The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following fungi exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for anidulafungin against isolates of the following

Candida species. However, the effectiveness of anidulafungin in treating clinical infections due to these fungi has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials:
Candida guilliermondii
Candida krusei

Susceptibility Testing

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.

Animal Toxicology And/Or Pharmacology

In 3 month studies, liver toxicity, including single cell hepatocellular necrosis, hepatocellular hypertrophy and increased liver weights were observed in monkeys and rats at doses equivalent to 5–6 times human exposure. For both species, hepatocellular hypertrophy was still noted one month after the end of dosing.

Clinical Studies

Candidemia And Other Candida Infections (Intra-abdominal Abscess and Peritonitis)

The safety and efficacy of ERAXIS were evaluated in a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind study of patients with candidemia and/or other forms of invasive candidiasis. Patients were randomized to receive once daily IV ERAXIS (200 mg loading dose followed by 100 mg maintenance dose) or IV fluconazole (800 mg loading dose followed by 400 mg maintenance dose). Patients were stratified by APACHE II score (≤20 and >20) and the presence or absence of neutropenia. Patients with Candida endocarditis, osteomyelitis or meningitis, or those with infection due to C. krusei, were excluded from the study. Treatment was administered for at least 14 and not more than 42 days. Patients in both study arms were permitted to switch to oral fluconazole after at least 10 days of intravenous therapy, provided that they were able to tolerate oral medication, were afebrile for at least 24 hours, and the last blood cultures were negative for Candida species.

Patients who received at least one dose of study medication and who had a positive culture for Candida species from a normally sterile site before entry into the study (modified intent-to-treat [MITT] population) were included in the analysis of global response at the end of IV therapy. A successful global response required clinical cure or improvement (significant, but incomplete resolution of signs and symptoms of the Candida infection and no additional antifungal treatment), and documented or presumed microbiological eradication. Patients with an indeterminate outcome were analyzed as failures in this population.

Two hundred and fifty-six patients in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population were randomized and received at least one dose of study medication. In ERAXIS-treated patients, the age range was 16–89 years, the gender distribution was 50% male and 50% female, and the race distribution was 71% White, 20% Black/African American, 7% Hispanic, 2% other races. The median duration of IV therapy was 14 and 11 days in the ERAXIS and fluconazole arms, respectively. For those who received oral fluconazole, the median duration of oral therapy was 7 days for the ERAXIS arm and 5 days for the fluconazole arm.

Patient disposition is presented in Table 7.

Table 7: Patient Disposition and Reasons for Discontinuation in Candidemia and other Candida Infections Study

ERAXIS
n (%)
Fluconazole
n (%)
Treated patients131125
Patients completing study through 6 week follow-up94 (72)80 (64)
DISCONTINUATIONS FROM STUDY MEDICATION
Total discontinued from study medication34 (26)48 (38)
Discontinued due to adverse events12 (9)21 (17)
Discontinued due to lack of efficacy11 (8)16 (13)

Two hundred and forty-five patients (127 ERAXIS, 118 fluconazole) met the criteria for inclusion in the MITT population. Of these, 219 patients (116 ERAXIS, 103 fluconazole) had candidemia only. Risk factors for candidemia among patients in both treatment arms in this study were: presence of a central venous catheter (78%), receipt of broad-spectrum antibiotics (69%), recent surgery (42%), recent hyperalimentation (25%), and underlying malignancy (22%). The most frequent species isolated at baseline was C. albicans (62%), followed by C. glabrata (20%), C. parapsilosis (12%) and C. tropicalis (11%). The majority (97%) of patients were non-neutropenic (ANC >500) and 81% had APACHE II scores less than or equal to 20.

Global success rates in patients with candidemia and other Candida infections are summarized in Table 8.

Table 8: Efficacy Analysis: Global Success in patients with Candidemia and other Candida Infections (MITT Population)

Time-pointERAXIS
(N=127) n (%)
Fluconazole
(N=118) n (%)
Treatment Difference*, % (95% C.I.)
End of IV Therapy96 (75.6)71 (60.2)15.4 (3.9, 27.0)
End of All Therapy†94 (74.0)67 (56.8)17.2 (2.9, 31.6)‡
2 Week Follow-up82 (64.6)58 (49.2)15.4
(0.4, 30.4)‡
6 Week Follow-up71 (55.9)52 (44.1)11.8
(-3.4, 27.0)‡
*Calculated as ERAXIS minus fluconazole
†33 patients in each study arm (26% ERAXIS and 29% fluconazole-treated) switched to oral fluconazole after the end of IV therapy.
‡98.3% confidence intervals, adjusted post hoc for multiple comparisons of secondary time points

Table 9 presents global response by patients with candidemia or multiple sites of Candida infection and mortality data for the MITT population.

Table 9: Global Response and Mortality in Candidemia and other Candida Infections

ERAXISFluconazoleBetween group difference * (95% CI)
No. of MITT patients127118
Global Success (MITT) At End Of IV Therapy
Candidemia88/116 (75.9%)63/103 (61.2%)14.7 (2.5, 26.9)
Neutropenic½2/4-
Non neutropenic87/114 (76.3%)61/99 (61.6%)-
Multiple sites
Peritoneal fluid/ intra-abdominal abscess4/65/6-
Blood/ peritoneum (intra-abdominal abscess)2/20/2-
Blood /bile-1/1-
Blood/renal-1/1-
Pancreas-0/3-
Pelvic abscess-1/2-
Pleural fluid1/1--
Blood/ pleural fluid0/1--
Blood/left thigh lesion biopsy1/1--
Total8/11 (72.7%)8/15 (53.3%)-
Mortality
Overall study mortality29/127 (22.8 %)37/118 (31.4%)-
Mortality during study therapy10/127 (7.9%)17/118 (14.4%)-
Mortality attributed to Candida2/127 (1.6%)5/118 (4.2%)-
* Calculated as ERAXIS minus fluconazole

Esophageal Candidiasis

ERAXIS was evaluated in a double-blind, double-dummy, randomized Phase 3 study. Three hundred patients received ERAXIS (100 mg loading dose IV on Day 1 followed by 50 mg/day IV) and 301 received oral fluconazole (200 mg loading dose on Day 1 followed by 100 mg/day). Treatment duration was 7 days beyond resolution of symptoms for a minimum of 14 and a maximum of 21 days.

Of the 442 patients with culture confirmed esophageal candidiasis, most patients (91%) had C. albicans isolated at the baseline.

Treatment groups were similar in demographic and other baseline characteristics. In ERAXIS-treated patients, the age range was 16–69 years, the gender distribution was 42% male and 58% female, and the race distribution was 15% White, 49% Black/African American, 15% Asian, 0.3 % Hispanic, 21% other races.

In this study, of 280 patients tested, 237 (84.6%) tested HIV positive. In both groups the median time to resolution of symptoms was 5 days and the median duration of therapy was 14 days.

Efficacy was assessed by endoscopic outcome at end of therapy (EOT). Patients were considered clinically evaluable if they received at least 10 days of therapy, had an EOT assessment with a clinical outcome other than 'indeterminate', had an endoscopy at EOT, and did not have any protocol violations prior to the EOT visit that would affect an assessment of efficacy.

An endoscopic success, defined as cure (endoscopic grade of 0 on a 4-point severity scale) or improvement (decrease of one or more grades from baseline), was seen in 225/231 (97.4%) ERAXIS-treated patients and 233/236 (98.7%) fluconazole-treated patients (Table 10). The majority of these patients were endoscopic cures (grade=0). Two weeks after completing therapy, the ERAXIS group had significantly more endoscopically-documented relapses than the fluconazole group, 120/225 (53.3%) vs. 45/233 (19.3%), respectively (Table 10).

Table 10: Endoscopy Results in Patients with Esophageal Candidiasis (Clinically Evaluable Population)

Endoscopic Response at End of Therapy
ResponseERAXIS
N=231
Fluconazole
N=236
Treatment Difference*95% CI
Endoscopic Success, n (%)225 (97.4)233 (98.7)-1.3%-3.8%, 1.2%
Cure204 (88.3)221 (93.6)
Improvement21 (9.1)12 (5.1)
Failure, n (%)6 (2.6)3 (1.3)
Endoscopic Relapse Rates at Follow-Up, 2 Weeks Post-Treatment
ERAXISFluconazoleTreatment Difference*95% CI
Endoscopic Relapse, n/N (%)120/225 (53.3%)45/233 (19.3%)34.0%25.8%, 42.3%
* Calculated as ERAXIS minus fluconazole

Clinical success (cure or improvement in clinical symptoms including odynophagia/dysphagia and retrosternal pain) occurred in 229/231 (99.1%) of the ERAXIS-treated patients and 235/236 (99.6%) of the fluconazole-treated patients at the end of therapy. For patients with C. albicans, microbiological success occurred in 142/162 (87.7%) of the ERAXIS-treated group and 157/166 (94.6%) of the fluconazole-treated group at the end of therapy. For patients with Candida species other than C. albicans, success occurred in 10/12 (83.3%) of the ERAXIS-treated group and 14/16 (87.5%) of the fluconazole-treated group.

Patient Information for Eraxis

Hepatic Adverse Reactions

Inform patients about the risk of developing abnormal liver function tests and/or hepatic dysfunction. Advise the patient that liver function tests may be monitored during treatment.

Anaphylactic And Hypersensitivity Reactions

Inform the patient that anaphylactic reactions, including shock were reported with ERAXIS. Inform the patient if these reactions occur, ERAXIS may be discontinued and appropriate treatment administered.

Inform the patient that ERAXIS is also known to cause infusion-related adverse reactions, possibly histamine-mediated. Inform the patient to report symptoms including rash, urticaria, flushing, pruritus, dyspnea, and hypotension to their healthcare provider.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk of ERAXIS to a fetus. Advise females to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy.

Patients With Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI)

Inform patients and caregivers that ERAXIS contains fructose and can be life-threatening when administered to patients with hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Inquire for symptoms of fructose and/or sucrose intolerance.

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