Rylaze

Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Last updated on RxList: 5/6/2024

Drug Summary

What Is Rylaze?

Rylaze (asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant) rywn) is an asparagine specific enzyme indicated as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) in adult and pediatric patients 1 month or older who have developed hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived asparaginase.

What Are Side Effects of Rylaze?

Rylaze may cause serious side effects including:

  • hives,
  • difficulty breathing,
  • swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat,
  • severe dizziness,
  • severe stomach pain with nausea or vomiting,
  • mental or mood changes,
  • tremor,
  • muscle stiffness,
  • joint pain,
  • swelling of the hands, feet, and lower legs,
  • yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice),
  • unusual bleeding,
  • easy bruising,
  • nose bleeds,
  • back or tarry stools,
  • unusual thirst,
  • frequent urination,
  • high fever,
  • vision changes,
  • fainting,
  • severe headache,
  • seizures,
  • chest pain,
  • fever,
  • chills,
  • sores in the mouth or on the lips, and
  • persistent sore throat

Get medical help right away, if you have any of the symptoms listed above.

Side effects of Rylaze include:

  • abnormal liver test, 
  • nausea, 
  • musculoskeletal pain, 
  • fatigue, 
  • infection, 
  • headache, 
  • fever,
  • drug hypersensitivity, 
  • febrile neutropenia
  • decreased appetite, 
  • sores or inflammation in the mouth, 
  • bleeding, 
  • high blood sugar (hyperglycemia),
  • abdominal pain,
  • fast heart rate, 
  • diarrhea,
  • constipation,
  • dehydration, 
  • numbness and tingling of extremities, 
  • cough, and
  • insomnia.

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 Rylaze

When replacing a long-acting asparaginase product, the recommended dosage of Rylaze is 25 mg/m2 administered intramuscularly every 48 hours.

Rylaze In Children

The safety and effectiveness of Rylaze in the treatment of ALL and LBL have been established in pediatric patients 1 month to 17 years who have developed hypersensitivity to a long-acting E. coli derived asparaginase. 

The safety and effectiveness of Rylaze have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 1 month of age.

What Drugs, Substances, or Supplements Interact with Rylaze?

Rylaze may interact with other medicines.

Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Rylaze During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before using Rylaze; it may harm a fetus. Pregnancy testing is recommended in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Rylaze. Females of reproductive potential are advised to use effective non-hormonal contraceptive methods during treatment with Rylaze and for 3 months after the last dose. It is unknown if Rylaze passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for adverse reactions in the breastfed child, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Rylaze and for 1 week after the last dose. 

Additional Information

Our Rylaze (asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant) rywn) Injection, for Intramuscular Use Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication. 

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
 

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Description for Rylaze

Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn contains an asparagine specific bacterial enzyme (L-asparaginase). L-asparaginase is a tetrameric enzyme that consists of four identical 35 kDa subunits with a combined molecular weight of 140 kDa. The amino acid sequence is identical to native asparaginase Erwinia chrystanthemi (also known as crisantaspase). The activity of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is expressed in units, defined as the amount of enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of 1μmol of L-asparagine per reaction minute, per mg of protein.

Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is produced by fermentation of a genetically engineered Pseudomonas fluorescens bacterium containing the DNA which encodes for asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi.

RYLAZE (asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn) injection is supplied as a sterile, clear to opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow, preservative-free solution for intramuscular injection. Each 0.5 mL contains 10 mg asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn and the inactive ingredients: polysorbate 80 (0.1 mg), sodium chloride (1.5 mg), sodium phosphate dibasic anhydrous (0.8 mg), sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate (0.6 mg), and trehalose (32.1 mg). Sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust the pH. The pH is approximately 7.

Uses for Rylaze

RYLAZE is indicated as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) in adult and pediatric patients 1 month or older who have developed hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived asparaginase.

Dosage for Rylaze

Recommended Dosage

There are two RYLAZE regimens that can be used to replace a long-acting asparaginase product. The recommended dosages of RYLAZE are:

When Administered Every 48 Hours
  • 25 mg/m2 administered intramuscularly every 48 hours;
When Administered On A Monday/Wednesday/Friday Schedule
  • 25 mg/m2 intramuscularly on Monday morning and Wednesday morning, and 50 mg/m2 intramuscularly on Friday afternoon. Administer the Friday afternoon dose 53 to 58 hours after the Wednesday morning dose (e.g., 8:00 am on Monday and Wednesday, and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday) [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Studies].

Table 1 shows the number of RYLAZE dosages recommended for the intended duration of treatment for replacement of one dose of calaspargase pegol products (3 weeks of asparaginase coverage) or one dose of pegaspargase products (2 weeks of asparaginase coverage). See the full prescribing information for the long-acting asparaginase product to determine the total duration of administration of RYLAZE as replacement therapy.

Table 1. Recommended Duration of RYLAZE Dosing to Replace One Long-Acting Asparaginase Dose

When RYLAZE is Administered: Recommended Duration of RYLAZE to Replace Calaspargase Pegol Products Recommended Duration of RYLAZE to Replace Pegaspargase Products
25 mg/m2 intramuscular every 48 hours Replace one dose of calaspargase pegol products with 11 doses of RYLAZE Replace one dose of pegaspargase products with 7 doses of RYLAZE
25 mg/m2 intramuscular on Monday morning and Wednesday morning, and 50 mg/m2 intramuscular on Friday afternoon* Replace one dose of calaspargase pegol products with 9 doses of RYLAZE Replace one dose of pegaspargase products with 6 doses of RYLAZE
*See bullet above for timing of 25/25/50 mg/m2 dosing of RYLAZE.

Recommended Premedication

Premedicate patients with acetaminophen, an H-1 receptor blocker (such as diphenhydramine), and an H-2 receptor blocker (such as famotidine) 30-60 minutes prior to administration of RYLAZE to decrease the risk and severity of hypersensitivity reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Recommended Monitoring And Dosage Modifications For Adverse Reactions

Monitor patient’s bilirubin, transaminases, glucose, and clinical examinations prior to treatment every 2-3 weeks and as indicated clinically. If results are abnormal, monitor patients until recovery from the cycle of therapy. If an adverse reaction occurs, modify treatment according to Table 2.

Table 2: Dosage Modifications

Adverse Reaction Severity* Action
Hypersensitivity Reaction [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Grade 2
  • Treat the symptoms.
Grade 3 to 4
  • Discontinue RYLAZE permanently.
Pancreatitis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Grade 2 to 4
  • Hold RYLAZE for elevations in lipase or amylase > 2 times the ULN**, or for symptomatic pancreatitis.
  • Resume treatment when lipase and amylase are < 1.5 times the ULN and symptoms are resolved.
  • Discontinue RYLAZE permanently if clinical necrotizing or hemorrhagic pancreatitis is confirmed.
Thrombosis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Uncomplicated thrombosis
  • Hold RYLAZE.
  • Treat with appropriate antithrombotic therapy.
  • Upon resolution of symptoms, consider resuming RYLAZE, while continuing antithrombotic therapy.
Severe or life-threatening thrombosis
  • Discontinue RYLAZE permanently.
  • Treat with appropriate antithrombotic therapy.
Hemorrhage [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Grade 3 to 4
  • Hold RYLAZE.
  • Evaluate for coagulopathy and consider clotting factor replacement as needed.
  • Resume RYLAZE with the next scheduled dose if bleeding is controlled.
Hepatotoxicity [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] Total bilirubin > 3 times to ≤ 10 times the ULN
  • Hold RYLAZE until total bilirubin levels decrease to ≤ 1.5 times the ULN.
Total bilirubin > 10 times the ULN
  • Discontinue RYLAZE and do not make up missed doses.
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0.
** Upper limit of normal

Preparation And Administration Instructions

Ensure that medical support is available to appropriately manage anaphylactic reactions when administering RYLAZE [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

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

  • Use aseptic technique.
  • Determine the dose, total volume of RYLAZE solution required, and the number of RYLAZE vials needed based on the individual patient’s BSA. More than one vial may be needed for a full dose.
  • Withdraw the indicated injection volume of RYLAZE into the syringe for injection.
    • Do not shake the vial.
    • Limit the volume of RYLAZE at a single injection site to 2 mL.
    • If the volume to be administered is greater than 2 mL, divide the doses equally into multiple syringes, one for each injection site.
    • Discard the remaining unused RYLAZE in the single-dose vial.
  • Administer RYLAZE by intramuscular injection
    • Rotate injection sites.
    • Do not inject RYLAZE into scar tissue or areas that are reddened, inflamed, or swollen.
  • If the prepared dose is not used immediately, store the syringe(s) at room temperature 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) for up to 8 hours or refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) for up to 24 hours. The syringe does not need to be protected from light during storage.

HOW SUPPLIED

Dosage Forms And Strengths

Injection

10 mg/0.5 mL clear to opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow solution in a single-dose vial.

Storage And Handling

RYLAZE (asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn) injection is supplied as a sterile, clear to opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow, preservative-free solution in single-dose vials. Each single-dose vial (NDC 68727-900-01) contains 10 mg/0.5 mL asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn. Each carton of RYLAZE (NDC 68727-900-03) contains 3 single-dose vials.

Store RYLAZE vials refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. Do not shake or freeze.

Manufactured by: Jazz Pharmaceuticals Ireland Limited Dublin, Ireland. Revised: Nov 2022

Side Effects for Rylaze

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:

  • Hypersensitivity Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Pancreatic Toxicity [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Thrombosis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Hemorrhage [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Hepatotoxicity [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.

The safety of RYLAZE described in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS reflect exposure in 167 patients administered RYLAZE intramuscularly at various dosages when used in combination with chemotherapy in study JZP458-201 [see Clinical Studies]. These patients received a median of 4 courses of RYLAZE (range: 1-15 courses); 65% of patients received at least four courses.

The safety of RYLAZE described below and in Table 3 was evaluated in study JZP458-201, a multi-cohort study. Patients received RYLAZE administered intramuscularly at dosages of 25 mg/m2 on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday or 25 mg/m2 on Monday and Wednesday, and 50 mg/m2 on Friday, for 6 doses as a replacement for a single dose of pegaspargase as a component of multi-agent chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies]. The patients had a median age of 11 years (range: 1-25 years); the majority of patients were male (57%) and White (68%). The patients received a median of 4 courses of RYLAZE (range: 1-14 courses); 65% of patients received at least four courses.

A fatal adverse reaction (infection) occurred in 1 patient treated with the RYLAZE 25/25/25 mg/m2 dosage. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 60% of patients who received the recommended dosages of RYLAZE. The most frequent nonhematological serious adverse reactions (in ≥ 5% of patients) were febrile neutropenia, infection, drug hypersensitivity, pyrexia, nausea, dehydration, stomatitis, acute kidney injury, pancreatitis, diarrhea, and viral infection. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 10% of patients who received RYLAZE intramuscularly at the recommended dosages. Adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation included pancreatitis (5%), drug hypersensitivity (4%), and infection (1%).

All patients treated with the recommended dosages of RYLAZE as a component of multi-agent chemotherapy experienced neutropenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia. The most common nonhematological adverse reactions (incidence > 20%) in patients were abnormal liver test, nausea, musculoskeletal pain, infection, fatigue, headache, febrile neutropenia, pyrexia, hemorrhage, stomatitis, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, drug hypersensitivity, hyperglycemia, diarrhea, pancreatitis, and hypokalemia. Table 3 shows the common adverse reactions occurring in at least 15% of the patients.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions (≥ 15% Incidence) in Patients Receiving RYLAZE as a Component of Multi-Agent Chemotherapy in Study JZP458-201

Adverse Reaction RYLAZE
25/25/25 mg/m2
Intramuscular Dosagea
(N = 33)
RYLAZE
25/25/50 mg/m2
Intramuscular Dosagea
(N = 51)
All Grades
(%)
Grades 3-4
(%)
All Grades
(%)
Grades 3-4
(%)
Abnormal liver test*# 70 18 75 27
Musculoskeletal pain* 45 6 35 4
Nausea* 45 9 47 8
Fatigue* 36 18 22 18
Headache 36 0 22 0
Infection*b 36 15 27 17
Febrile neutropenia 30 30 27 27
Pyrexia 30 6 20 0
Hemorrhage* 24 0 27 6
Stomatitis 24 12 27 4
Abdominal pain* 21 0 25 2
Decreased appetite 21 6 27 6
Drug hypersensitivity* 21 6 24 2
Hyperglycemia 21 3 12 4
Diarrhea* 18 6 25 4
Tachycardia* 18 0 16 2
Cough 15 0 14 0
Dehydration 15 9 12 6
Insomnia 15 0 4 0
Peripheral neuropathy* 15 0 6 0
Pancreatitis*# 12 0 22 10
Hypokalemia 9 3 22 8
* Includes grouped terms: Abnormal liver test: alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, blood bilirubin increased, transaminases increased; Musculoskeletal pain: arthralgia, back pain, musculoskeletal chest pain, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, pain in extremity; Nausea: nausea, vomiting; Fatigue: fatigue, asthenia; Infection: sepsis, upper respiratory tract infection, enterocolitis infectious, skin infection, bacteremia, paronychia, pneumonia, otitis externa, soft tissue infection, abdominal infection, conjunctivitis, device related infection, folliculitis, lymph gland infection, necrotizing fasciitis, perirectal abscess, peritonsillar abscess, sinusitis, subcutaneous abscess, wound infection; Drug hypersensitivity: drug hypersensitivity, rash, infusion related reaction, lip swelling, periorbital edema, throat irritation, urticaria, dry skin, eczema, erythema, hand dermatitis, rash maculo-papular, rash papular; Hemorrhage: contusion, epistaxis, catheter site hemorrhage, petechiae, hematochezia, menorrhagia, mouth hemorrhage, increased tendency to bruise, rectal hemorrhage; Abdominal pain: abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper; Diarrhea: diarrhea, colitis; Tachycardia: sinus tachycardia, tachycardia; Peripheral neuropathy: peripheral motor neuropathy, neuropathy peripheral, peripheral sensory neuropathy; Pancreatitis: pancreatitis, pancreatitis acute, amylase increased, lipase increased.
# Includes adverse event terms and laboratory abnormalities Grading is based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.
a RYLAZE was administered as a component of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday schedule.
b Does not include the following fatal adverse reactions: infection (N=1).

Clinically relevant adverse reactions in < 15% of patients who received RYLAZE in combination with chemotherapy included:

Gastrointestinal disorders: Abdominal discomfort, abdominal distension, constipation, gastritis

General disorders and administration site conditions: Infusion site reaction, injection site reaction, pain

Infections and infestations: Viral infection, bacterial infection, fungal infection

Investigations: Antithrombin III decreased, blood cholesterol increased, blood fibrinogen decreased, activated partial thromboplastin time prolonged

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Acidosis, hyperammonemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypoglycemia

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Bone pain, muscular weakness, muscle spasms

Nervous system disorders: Paresthesia, dizziness, gait disturbance, hyperammonemic encephalopathy

Psychiatric disorders: Agitation, anxiety, irritability

Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary edema

Renal and urinary disorders: Acute kidney injury

Skin and subcutaneous disorders: Pruritus

Vascular disorders: Hypertension, hypotension, thrombosis

Drug Interactions for Rylaze

No Information Provided

Warnings for Rylaze

Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section

Precautions for Rylaze

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions after the use of RYLAZE occurred in 29% of patients in clinical trials, and it was severe in 6% of patients [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Anaphylaxis was observed in 2% of patients after intramuscular administration. Discontinuation of RYLAZE due to hypersensitivity reactions occurred in 5% of patients. Hypersensitivity reactions were higher in patients who received intravenous asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn. The intravenous route of administration is not approved.

In patients administered RYLAZE intramuscularly in clinical trials, the median number of doses of RYLAZE that patients received prior to the onset of the first hypersensitivity reaction was 12 doses (range: 1-64 doses). The most commonly observed reaction was rash (19%), and 1 patient (1%) experienced a severe rash.

Hypersensitivity reactions observed with L-asparaginase class products include angioedema, urticaria, lip swelling, eye swelling, rash or erythema, blood pressure decreased, bronchospasm, dyspnea, and pruritus.

Premedicate patients prior to administration of RYLAZE as recommended [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Because of the risk of serious allergic reactions (e.g., life-threatening anaphylaxis), administer RYLAZE in a setting with resuscitation equipment and other agents necessary to treat anaphylaxis (e.g., epinephrine, oxygen, intravenous steroids, antihistamines) [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Discontinue RYLAZE in patients with serious hypersensitivity reactions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, including elevated amylase or lipase, was reported in 20% of patients in clinical trials of RYLAZE and was severe in 8% [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Symptomatic pancreatitis occurred in 7% of patients, and it was severe in 6% of patients. Elevated amylase or lipase without symptomatic pancreatitis was observed in 13% of patients treated with RYLAZE. Hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis have been reported with L-asparaginase class products.

Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, which, if left untreated, could be fatal. Evaluate patients with symptoms compatible with pancreatitis to establish a diagnosis. Assess serum amylase and lipase levels in patients with any signs or symptoms of pancreatitis. Discontinue RYLAZE in patients with severe or hemorrhagic pancreatitis. In the case of mild pancreatitis, withhold RYLAZE until the signs and symptoms subside and amylase and/or lipase levels return to 1.5 times the ULN [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. After resolution of mild pancreatitis, treatment with RYLAZE may be resumed.

Thrombosis

Serious thrombotic events, including sagittal sinus thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, have been reported in 1% of patients following treatment with RYLAZE. Discontinue RYLAZE for a thrombotic event, and administer appropriate antithrombotic therapy. Consider resumption of treatment with RYLAZE only if the patient had an uncomplicated thrombosis [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Hemorrhage

Bleeding was reported in 25% of patients treated with RYLAZE, and it was severe in 2%. Most commonly observed reactions were bruising (12%) and nose bleed (9%). [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

In patients treated with L-asparaginase class products, hemorrhage may be associated with increased prothrombin time (PT), increased partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and hypofibrinogenemia. Consider appropriate replacement therapy in patients with severe or symptomatic coagulopathy [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Hepatotoxicity

Elevated bilirubin and/or transaminases occurred in 75% of patients treated with RYLAZE in clinical trials, and 26% had Grade ≥ 3 elevations. Elevated bilirubin occurred in 28% of patients treated with RYLAZE in clinical trials, and 2% had Grade ≥ 3 elevations. Elevated transaminases occurred in 73% of patients treated with RYLAZE in clinical trials, and 25% had Grade ≥ 3 elevations [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Evaluate bilirubin and transaminases prior to treatment every 2-3 weeks and as indicated clinically during treatment with RYLAZE. In the event of serious liver toxicity, discontinue treatment with RYLAZE and provide supportive care [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and impairment of fertility studies have not been conducted with asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn.

In a fertility and early embryonic development study in rats, asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi had no effect on male or female fertility when administered intramuscularly at doses of up to 12 mg/m2 (approximately 0.48 times the maximum recommended human dose) every other day for a total of 35 doses. In males, decreased sperm count was observed at all doses but did not impact fertility.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Based on findings from animal reproduction studies, RYLAZE can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data on RYLAZE use in pregnant women to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproductive and developmental toxicity studies, intramuscular administration of asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis resulted in structural abnormalities and embryo-fetal mortality (see Data) at exposures below those in patients at the recommended human dose. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.

In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risks of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies are 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

Animal reproductive and developmental toxicity studies have not been conducted with RYLAZE.

In embryofetal development studies, asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi was administered intramuscularly every other day during the period of organogenesis to pregnant rats (at 3, 6, or 12 mg/m2) and rabbits (at 0.12, 0.30, or 0.48 mg/m2). In rats given 12 mg/m2 (approximately 0.48 times the maximum recommended human dose), maternal toxicity of decreased body weight gain was observed, as was a fetal finding of increased incidence of partially undescended thymic tissue. In rabbits, maternal toxicity consisting of decreased body weight was observed at 0.48 mg/m2 (approximately 0.02 times the maximum recommended human dose). Increased post-implantation loss, a decrease in the number of live fetuses, and gross abnormalities (e.g., absent kidney, absent accessory lung lobe, additional subclavian artery, and delayed ossification) were observed at doses of ≥ 0.12 mg/m2 (approximately 0.005 times the maximum recommended human dose).

Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential for adverse reactions in the breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with RYLAZE and for 1 week after the last dose.

Females And Males Of Reproductive Potential

RYLAZE can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Pregnancy].

Pregnancy Testing

Pregnancy testing is recommended in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating RYLAZE.

Contraception

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective non-hormonal contraceptive methods during treatment with RYLAZE and for 3 months after the last dose.

Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of RYLAZE in the treatment of ALL and LBL have been established in pediatric patients 1 month to < 17 years who have developed hypersensitivity to a long-acting E. coliderived asparaginase. Use of RYLAZE in these age groups is supported by evidence from an adequate and well-controlled study in adults and pediatric patients. The trial included 139 pediatric patients, including 2 infants (1 month to < 2 years), 99 children (2 years to < 12 years old), and 38 adolescents (12 years to < 17 years old). There were no clinically meaningful differences in safety or nadir serum asparaginase activity across age groups. The safety and effectiveness of RYLAZE have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 1 month of age.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of RYLAZE did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.

Overdose Information for Rylaze

No Information Provided

Contraindications for Rylaze

RYLAZE is contraindicated in patients with a history of:

  • Serious hypersensitivity reactions to Erwinia asparaginase, including anaphylaxis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS];
  • Serious pancreatitis during previous asparaginase therapy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS];
  • Serious thrombosis during previous asparaginase therapy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS];
  • Serious hemorrhagic events during previous asparaginase therapy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Clinical Pharmacology for Rylaze

Mechanism Of Action

Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of the amino acid L-asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia. The pharmacological effect of RYLAZE is based on the killing of leukemic cells due to depletion of plasma asparagine. Leukemic cells with low expression of asparagine synthetase have a reduced ability to synthesize asparagine, and therefore depend on an exogenous source of asparagine for survival.

Pharmacodynamics

Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn exposure-response relationships and the time course of pharmacodynamic response are unknown.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetic parameters of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn are presented based on serum asparaginase activity (SAA) after administration of RYLAZE in pediatric and young adult patients with ALL or LBL, unless otherwise specified. Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn maximum SAA (Cmax) and area under the SAA-time curve (AUC) increase proportionally over a dosage range from 12.5 to 50 mg/m2 (0.25 to 1 times the maximum approved recommended dose of 50 mg/m2). The simulated exposures for asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn after administration of the approved recommended dosages in a virtual population are summarized in Table 4.

Table 4: Simulated RYLAZE Pharmacokinetic Parameters Based on SAA

PK Parameter Geometric Mean (%CV) After Last Dose
25 mg/m2
IntramuscularlyEvery 48 Hours
25/25/50 mg/m2
Intramuscularly Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Last 25 mg/m2
Wednesday morning dose
Last 50 mg/m2
Friday afternoon dose
Cmax (U/mL) 2.3 (55%) 2.3 (54%) 4.1 (57%)
Ctrough (U/mL) 0.46 (75%) 0.3 (75%)a 0.39 (87%)b
a Ctrough at maximum interval of 58 hours after the last 25 mg/m2 Wednesday morning dose.
b Ctrough at maximum interval of 67 hours after the last 50 mg/m2 Friday afternoon dose.

Absorption

The median (min, max) Tmax of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn after intramuscular administration is 12 (8, 24) hours. The mean absolute bioavailability after intramuscular administration is 37% in healthy subjects.

Distribution

The geometric mean (%CV) volume of distribution of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is 1.37 L/m2 (47%).

Elimination

The geometric mean (%CV) clearance of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is 0.17 L/hour/m2 (42%) and the apparent half-life is 15.9 (11%) hours.

Metabolism

Asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn is expected to be metabolized into small peptides by catabolic pathways.

Specific Populations

There were no clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn based on age (1.4 to 25 years), weight (9 to 131 kg), or sex after the dose was adjusted by body surface area (BSA). The effect of renal and hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn has not been studied.

Body Surface Area

The volume of distribution and clearance of asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn increase with increasing BSA (0.44 to 2.53 m2).

Racial And Ethnic Groups

Black or African American patients had 29% lower clearance which may increase SAA exposure compared to White and Asian patients. There were no clinically significant differences in clearance between Hispanic and Non-Hispanic patients.

Immunogenicity

The observed incidence of anti-drug antibodies is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Differences in assay methods preclude meaningful comparisons of the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in other studies, including those of RYLAZE or of other asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant) products.

During treatment in Study JZP458-201 (range 1 to 15 courses), 78/166 (47%) of patients treated with RYLAZE intramuscularly developed anti-asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn antibodies. The effects of anti-drug antibodies on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and effectiveness have not been adequately characterized.

Clinical Studies

The efficacy of RYLAZE for the treatment of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) who have developed hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived asparaginase as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen was evaluated in Study JZP458-201 (NCT04145531), an open-label, multi-cohort, multi-center trial. In this trial, RYLAZE was administered at various dosages and routes of administration every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for a total of 6 doses to replace each dose of pegaspargase.

For the 225 evaluable patients, the median age was 10 years (range: 1-25 years); 61% were male and 39% were female; 69% were White, 11% were Black/African American, 4% were Asian, and 16% were of other or unknown race: 187 (83%) patients had experienced a hypersensitivity reaction (Grade ≥ 3) to pegaspargase and 15 patients (7%) reported silent inactivation.

The determination of efficacy was based on a demonstration of the achievement and maintenance of nadir serum asparaginase activity (NSAA) above the level of 0.1 U/mL by simulation. Table 5 shows the proportion with NSAA ≥ 0.1 U/mL for each approved dosage regimen based on simulation in a virtual population [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Table 5: Proportion (95% CI) with NSAA ≥ 0.1 U/mL by Simulation

RYLAZE Dosage Trough Sampling Time Proportion with NSAA > 0.1 U/mL (95% CI)a
25 mg/m2 intramuscularly every 48 hours 48 hours 96.0 (94.4, 97.2)
25/25/50 mg/m2 intramuscularly Monday morning/Wednesday morning/Friday afternoon Friday afternoon: 58 hours after 25 mg/m2 Wednesday morning doseb 91.6 (90.4, 92,8)
Monday morning: 67 hours after 50 mg/m2 Friday afternoon dosec 91.4 (90.1, 92.6)
a Based on 2,000 virtual subjects.
b Based on maximum interval of 58 hours between the Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon doses.
c Based on maximum interval of 67 hours between the Friday afternoon and Monday morning doses.

Patient Information for Rylaze

Hypersensitivity

Inform patients of the risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Instruct the patient on the symptoms of allergic reactions and to seek medical advice immediately if they experience such symptoms [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Pancreatitis

Instruct patients on signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and to seek medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Thrombosis

Instruct patients on the risk of thrombosis and to seek medical advice immediately if they experience headache, arm or leg swelling, shortness of breath, and chest pain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Hemorrhage

Advise patients to report any unusual bleeding or bruising to their healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Hepatotoxicity

Advise patients to report any jaundice, severe nausea or vomiting, or easy bleeding or bruising to their healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Pregnancy

Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective non-hormonal contraception during treatment with RYLAZE and for 3 months after the last dose [see Use In Specific Populations].

Lactation

Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with RYLAZE and for 1 week after the last dose [see Use In Specific Populations].

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