Overview
- Active ingredient
- Aripiprazole
- Established class
- Atypical Antipsychotic
- Route
- Intramuscular
- Label date
- 2025-04-04
Boxed warning
WARNING: INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. WARNING: INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death ( 5.1 ) ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis ( 5.1 )
Indications and usage
ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is indicated: for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults for maintenance monotherapy treatment of bipolar I disorder in adults ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is an atypical antipsychotic indicated: for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults ( 1 ) as maintenance monotherapy treatment of bipolar I disorder in adults ( 1 )
Dosage and administration
For patients naïve to aripiprazole, establish tolerability with oral aripiprazole prior to initiating treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII ( 2.1 ) Administer by intramuscular injection in the gluteal muscle by a healthcare professional. Do not administer by any other route ( 2.1 ) Recommended dosage is 960 mg administered once every 2 months as a single injection. Dose can be reduced to 720 mg in patients with adverse reactions ( 2.2 ) For patients currently receiving an oral antipsychotic, there are two ways to initiate treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 1-day initiation: Administer one injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg, one injection of Abilify Maintena 400 mg and a single oral dose of aripiprazole 20 mg ( 2.2 ) 14-day initiation: In conjunction with first ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg dose, take 14 consecutive days of concurrent oral aripiprazole (10 mg to 20 mg) or current oral antipsychotic ( 2.2 ) For patients currently receiving Abilify Maintena Administer ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg in place of the next scheduled injection of the Abilify Maintena. Missed doses: Dosage adjustment may be required ( 2.3 ) Known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers: Recommended dosage is 720 mg administered once every 2 months as a single injection ( 2.4 ) See Full Prescribing Information for important preparation and administration information ( 2.5 )
2.1 Important Administration Information For patients who have never taken aripiprazole, establish tolerability with oral aripiprazole prior to initiating treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Due to the half-life of oral aripiprazole (i.e., 75 hours and 94 hours for aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole, respectively), it may take up to 2 weeks to fully assess tolerability. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII must be administered as an intramuscular gluteal injection by a healthcare professional. Do not administer by any other route . For detailed preparation and administration instructions, [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] .
2.2 Recommended Dosage for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII The recommended dosage of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is 960 mg, administered once every 2 months (56 days after previous injection). Patients Receiving Oral Antipsychotics There are two ways to initiate treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in patients receiving oral antipsychotics: 1-day initiation: Administer one intramuscular injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg in the gluteal muscle, one injection of Abilify Maintena 400 mg in a separate gluteal or deltoid muscle, and one dose of oral aripiprazole 20 mg, on the first day of treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Do not administer both injections into the same muscle. 14-day initiation: Administer one intramuscular injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg in the gluteal muscle and continue treatment with oral aripiprazole (10 mg to 20 mg) for 14 consecutive days. For patients already stable on another oral antipsychotic (and known to tolerate aripiprazole), administer one intramuscular injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg in the gluteal muscle and continue treatment with the oral antipsychotic for 14 consecutive days. Patients Receiving Abilify Maintena For patients receiving Abilify Maintena 400 mg (once monthly dosing), administer ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg (once every 2 month dosing) in place of the next scheduled injection of the Abilify Maintena. The first ABILIFY ASIMTUFII injection may be administered in place of the second, or later injection of Abilify Maintena. If there are adverse reactions with the ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg dosage, the dosage may be reduced to 720 mg once every 2 months. Patients may be given the ABILIFY ASIMTUFII injection up to 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after the 2-month scheduled timepoint.
2.3 Missed Doses If more than 8 weeks and less than 14 weeks have elapsed since the last injection, administer the next dose of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII as soon as possible. The once every 2 month schedule should be resumed. If more than 14 weeks have elapsed since the last injection, restart treatment with either 1-day initiation or 14-day initiation with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ] .
2.4 Dosage Modifications for Cytochrome P450 Considerations Dosage adjustments for patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and/or in patients taking concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or CYP2D6 inhibitors for more than 14 days are described in Table 1. If the CYP3A4 inhibitor or CYP2D6 inhibitor is withdrawn, the dosage of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII may need to be increased to the previous dose. Dosage adjustments are not recommended for patients with concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors, CYP2D6 inhibitors or CYP3A4 inducers for less than 14 days. Table 1: Dosage Recommendations for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in Patients Who are Known CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers, Patients Taking Concomitant CYP2D6 Inhibitors, 3A4 Inhibitors, or CYP3A4 Inducers for Greater than 14 days Factors Dosage Recommendation CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers Known CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers 720 mg once every 2 months For the 1-day initiation regimen, administer a single 20 mg oral aripiprazole, 300 mg Abilify Maintena and 720 mg ABILIFY ASIMTUFII on Day 1. Known CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers taking concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors Avoid use Patients Taking 960 mg of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII Concomitant use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII with Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors 720 mg once every 2 months Concomitant use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII with Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors 720 mg once every 2 months Concomitant use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII with Strong CYP2D6 and Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors Avoid use Concomitant use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII with CYP3A4 inducers Avoid use 2.5 Preparation and Administration Instructions Read the complete instructions for preparation and administration below and consider referring to the separate Healthcare Provider "Instructions for Use" for additional preparation and administration considerations. To be prepared and administered by a healthcare professional only. For gluteal intramuscular injection only. Do not administer by any other route. Prior to administration, visually inspect ABILIFY ASIMTUFII pre-filled syringe for particulate matter and discoloration. The suspension should appear to be a uniform, homogeneous suspension that is opaque and milky-white in color. Do not use ABILIFY ASIMTUFII pre-filled syringe if the suspension is discolored, or particulate matter is present Each kit contains one sterile pre-filled syringe containing ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 720 mg or 960 mg and two safety needles: One sterile 1 ½ inch, 22 gauge needle (in black packaging) One sterile 2 inch, 21 gauge needle (in green packaging) Image Preparation Prior to Administration Remove the ABILIFY ASIMTUFII pre-filled syringe from the package. Tap the syringe on your hand at least 10 (ten) times (Figure 1). After tapping, shake the syringe vigorously for at least 10 (ten) seconds, until the medication is uniform (Figure 2). Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 1 Figure 2 Select the appropriate needle Needle selection is determined by patient body type. For gluteal intramuscular administration only. For non-obese patients - 22-gauge, 1.5-inch (38 mm) safety needle with needle protection device (needle in black packaging) For obese patients - 21-gauge, 2-inch (51 mm) safety needle with needle protection device (needle in green packaging) Attach the needle Twist and pull off the pre-filled syringe tip-cap (Figure 3). While holding the base of the needle, ensure the needle is firmly seated on the safety device with a push. Gently twist clockwise until SECURELY fitted (Figure 3). Figure 3 Figure 3 Expel Air When you are ready to administer the injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, hold the pre-filled syringe upright and remove the needle-cap straight up (Figure 4). Do not twist the needle-cap, as this may loosen the needle from the syringe. Figure 4 Slowly advance the plunger rod upward to expel the air and until the suspension fills needle base (Figure 5). Figure 5 Figure 4 Figure 5 Inject the dose Slowly inject the entire contents of the pre-filled syringe intramuscularly into the gluteal muscle of the patient (Figure 6) . Do not administer by any other route. Do not massage the injection site. Figure 6 Figure 6 Disposal Procedure After the injection, press the safety shield on a hard surface to cover and lock shield over the needle (Figures 7 and 8) Figure 7 Figure 8 Immediately discard used syringe and the unused needle in an approved sharps container. The unused needle should not be saved for future use. Figure 7 Figure 8
Dosage forms and strengths
Extended-release injectable suspension: sterile, white to off-white, aqueous suspension in a single-dose, pre-filled syringe. Table 2: ABILIFY ASIMTUFII Presentations Dose Strength Volume Label Color Syringe Tip Wrap 720 mg 2.4 mL Light Blue Aqua 960 mg 3.2 mL Pink Light Blue Extended-release injectable suspension: 960 mg/3.2 mL and 720 mg/2.4 mL single-dose pre-filled syringes ( 3 )
Contraindications
ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole, or any of the excipients. Hypersensitivity reactions ranging from pruritus/urticaria to anaphylaxis have been reported in patients receiving aripiprazole [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole, or to any excipients of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis : Increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack, including fatalities) ( 5.2 ) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome : Manage with immediate discontinuation and close monitoring ( 5.3 ) Tardive Dyskinesia : Discontinue if clinically appropriate ( 5.4 ) Metabolic Changes : Monitor for hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and weight gain ( 5.5 ) Pathological Gambling and Other Compulsive Behaviors : Consider dose reduction or discontinuation ( 5.6 ) Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope : Monitor heart rate and blood pressure and caution in patients with known cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, and risk of dehydration or syncope ( 5.7 ) Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis: Perform complete blood counts (CBC) in patients with history of clinically significant low white blood cell count (WBC) or a history of leukopenia or neutropenia. Consider discontinuing ABILIFY ASIMTUFII if clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors ( 5.9 ) Seizures : Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold ( 5.10 ) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment : Use caution when operating machinery ( 5.11 )
5.1 Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. Observational studies suggest that, similar to atypical antipsychotic drugs, treatment with conventional antipsychotic drugs may increase mortality. The extent to which the findings of increased mortality in observational studies may be attributed to the antipsychotic drug as opposed to some characteristic(s) of the patients is not clear. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
5.2 Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis In placebo-controlled clinical studies (two flexible-dose and one fixed-dose study) of dementia-related psychosis, there was an increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack), including fatalities, in oral aripiprazole-treated patients (mean age: 84 years; range: 78 to 88 years). In the fixed-dose study, there was a statistically significant dose response relationship for cerebrovascular adverse reactions in patients treated with oral aripiprazole. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ].
5.3 Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal symptom complex has been reported with antipsychotic drugs, including aripiprazole. Rare cases of NMS have been reported during aripiprazole treatment in the global clinical database. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis) and acute renal failure. If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and provide symptomatic treatment and monitoring.
5.4 Tardive Dyskinesia Tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. Although the prevalence of the syndrome appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, it is impossible to predict which patients will develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown. The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible appear to increase as the duration of treatment and the total cumulative dose increases. The syndrome can develop, after relatively brief treatment periods at low doses. It may also occur after discontinuation of treatment. Tardive dyskinesia may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is discontinued. Antipsychotic treatment itself may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome and may mask the underlying process. The effect of symptomatic suppression on the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown. Given these considerations, ABILIFY ASIMTUFII should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients who suffer from a chronic illness that 1) is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs and 2) for whom alternative, equally effective, but potentially less harmful treatments are not available or appropriate. In patients who do require chronic treatment, the smallest dose and the shortest duration of treatment producing a satisfactory clinical response should be sought. The need for continued treatment should be reassessed periodically. If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient treated with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII despite the presence of the syndrome.
5.5 Metabolic Changes Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes including hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain. While all drugs in the class have been shown to produce some metabolic changes, each drug has its own specific risk profile. Hyperglycemia/Diabetes Mellitus Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar coma, or death, have been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. There have been reports of hyperglycemia in patients treated with aripiprazole [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Given these confounders, the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and hyperglycemia-related adverse reactions is not completely understood. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of hyperglycemia-related adverse reactions in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes), who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the atypical antipsychotic drug. In a short-term, placebo-controlled randomized trial in adults with schizophrenia, the mean change in fasting glucose was +9.8 mg/dL (N=88) in the Abilify Maintena-treated patients (once monthly dosing) and +0.7 mg/dL (N=59) in the placebo-treated patients. Table 3 shows the proportion of Abilify Maintena-treated patients with normal and borderline fasting glucose at baseline and their changes in fasting glucose measurements. Table 3: Proportion of Patients with Potential Clinically Relevant Changes in Fasting Glucose from a 12-Week Placebo-Controlled Monotherapy Trial with Abilify Maintena in Adult Patients with Schizophrenia Category Change (at least once) from Baseline Treatment Arm n/N N = the total number of subjects who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result. n = the number of subjects with a potentially clinically relevant shift. % Fasting Glucose Normal to High (<100 mg/dL to ≥126 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 7/88 8.0 Placebo 0/75 0.0 Borderline to High (≥100 mg/dL and <126 mg/dL to ≥126 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 1/33 3.0 Placebo 3/33 9.1 During a 52-week, open-label bipolar I disorder study in those patients who initiated Abilify Maintena treatment, 1.1% with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift to high while receiving Abilify Maintena and 9.8% with borderline fasting glucose experienced a shift to high. Combined, 2.9% of these patients with normal or borderline fasting glucose experienced shifts to high fasting glucose during this trial. Dyslipidemia Undesirable alterations in lipids have been observed in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. Table 4 shows the proportion of adult patients from one short-term, placebo-controlled randomized trial in adults with schizophrenia taking Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing), with changes in total cholesterol, fasting triglycerides, fasting LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. Table 4: Proportion of Patients with Potential Clinically Relevant Changes in Blood Lipid Parameters From a 12-Week Placebo-Controlled Monotherapy Trial with Abilify Maintena in Adults with Schizophrenia Treatment Arm n/N N = the total number of subjects who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result. n = the number of subjects with a potentially clinically relevant shift. % Total Cholesterol Normal to High (<200 mg/dL to ≥240 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 3/83 3.6 Placebo 2/73 2.7 Borderline to High (200~<240 mg/dL to ≥240 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 6/27 22.2 Placebo 2/19 10.5 Any increase (≥40 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 15/122 12.3 Placebo 6/110 5.5 Fasting Triglycerides Normal to High (<150 mg/dL to ≥200 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 7/98 7.1 Placebo 4/78 5.1 Borderline to High (150~<200 mg/dL to ≥200 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 3/11 27.3 Placebo 4/15 26.7 Any increase (≥50 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 24/122 19.7 Placebo 20/110 18.2 Fasting LDL Cholesterol Normal to High (<100 mg/dL to ≥160 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 1/59 1.7 Placebo 1/51 2.0 Borderline to High (100~<160 mg/dL to ≥160 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 5/52 9.6 Placebo 1/41 2.4 Any increase (≥30 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 17/120 14.2 Placebo 9/103 8.7 HDL Cholesterol Normal to Low (≥40 mg/dL to <40 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 14/104 13.5 Placebo 11/87 12.6 Any decrease (≥20 mg/dL) Abilify Maintena 7/122 5.7 Placebo 12/110 10.9 During a 52-week, open-label bipolar I disorder study in those patients who initiated Abilify Maintena, shifts from baseline in fasting cholesterol from normal to high were reported in 2.1% (total cholesterol) and 2.2% (LDL cholesterol) and shifts from baseline from normal to low were reported in 8.5% (HDL cholesterol). Of these patients with normal baseline triglycerides, 3.6% experienced shifts to high, and 0.0% experienced shifts to very high. Combined, 1.0% of these patients with normal or borderline fasting triglycerides experienced shifts to very high fasting triglycerides during this trial. Weight Gain Weight gain has been observed with atypical antipsychotic use. Clinical monitoring of weight is recommended. In one short-term, placebo-controlled trial in adult patients with schizophrenia with Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing), the mean change in body weight at Week 12 was +3.5 kg (N=99) in the Abilify Maintena-treated patients and +0.8 kg (N=66) in the placebo-treated patients. Table 5 shows the percentage of adult patients with schizophrenia with weight gain ≥7% of body weight in a short-term, placebo-controlled trial with Abilify Maintena. Table 5: Percentage of Patients From a 12-Week Placebo-Controlled Trial with Abilify Maintena in Adult Patients with Schizophrenia with Weight Gain ≥7% of Body Weight Treatment Arm N N = the total number of subjects who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result. Patients n (%) Weight gain ≥7% of body weight Abilify Maintena 144 31 (21.5) Placebo 141 12 (8.5) During a 52-week, open-label bipolar I disorder study in those patients who initiated Abilify Maintena, 1.8% discontinued Abilify Maintena treatment due to weight increase. Abilify Maintena was associated with mean increase from baseline in weight of 1.0 kg at Week 52. In this trial, 21.4% of these patients demonstrated ≥7% increase in body weight and 15.4% demonstrated a ≥7% decrease in body weight.
5.6 Pathological Gambling and Other Compulsive Behaviors Post-marketing case reports suggest that patients can experience intense urges, particularly for gambling, and the inability to control these urges while taking aripiprazole. Other compulsive urges, reported less frequently, include: sexual urges, shopping, eating or binge eating, and other impulsive or compulsive behaviors. Because patients may not recognize these behaviors as abnormal, it is important for prescribers to ask patients or their caregivers specifically about the development of new or intense gambling urges, compulsive sexual urges, compulsive shopping, binge or compulsive eating, or other urges while being treated with aripiprazole. It should be noted that impulse-control symptoms can be associated with the underlying disorder. In some cases, although not all, urges were reported to have stopped when the dose was reduced, or the medication was discontinued. Compulsive behaviors may result in harm to the patient and others if not recognized. Consider dose reduction or stopping the medication if a patient develops such urges.
5.7 Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope ABILIFY ASIMTUFII may cause orthostatic hypotension, perhaps due to its α1-adrenergic receptor antagonism. Associated reactions related to orthostatic hypotension can include dizziness, tachycardia, and in some patients, syncope. In the short-term, placebo-controlled trial in adults with schizophrenia, the adverse reaction of presyncope was reported in 1/167 (0.6%) of patients treated with Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing), while syncope and orthostatic hypotension were each reported in 1/172 (0.6%) of patients treated with placebo. During the stabilization phase of the randomized-withdrawal (maintenance) study in adult patients with schizophrenia, orthostasis-related adverse events were reported in 4/576 (0.7%) of patients treated with Abilify Maintena, including abnormal orthostatic blood pressure (1/576, 0.2%), postural dizziness (1/576, 0.2%), presyncope (1/576, 0.2%) and orthostatic hypotension (1/576, 0.2%). In the short-term placebo-controlled trial of Abilify Maintena in adults with schizophrenia, there were no patients in either treatment group with a significant orthostatic change in blood pressure (defined as a decrease in systolic blood pressure ≥20 mmHg accompanied by an increase in heart rate ≥25 bpm when comparing standing to supine values). During the stabilization phase of the randomized-withdrawal (maintenance) study in adult patients with schizophrenia, the incidence of significant orthostatic change in blood pressure was 0.2% (1/575). Use ABILIFY ASIMTUFII with caution in patients with known cardiovascular disease (heart failure, history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, or conditions that predispose the patient to hypotension (e.g., dehydration, hypovolemia, and treatment with antihypertensive medications). Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension.
5.8 Falls Antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, may cause somnolence, postural hypotension, motor and sensory instability which may lead to falls and, consequently, fractures or other fall-related injuries. For patients with diseases, conditions, or medications that could exacerbate these effects, complete fall risk assessments when initiating antipsychotic treatment and recurrently for patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy.
5.9 Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis In clinical trials and post-marketing experience, leukopenia and neutropenia have been reported temporally related to antipsychotic agents, including aripiprazole. Agranulocytosis has also been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Possible risk factors for leukopenia/neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and a history of drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia. In patients with a history of a clinically significant low WBC/ANC or drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia, perform a complete blood count (CBC) frequently during the first few months of therapy. In such patients, consider discontinuation of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors. Monitor patients with clinically significant neutropenia for fever or other symptoms or signs of infection and treat promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Discontinue ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in patients with severe neutropenia (ANC<1000/mm 3 ) and follow their WBC counts until recovery.
5.10 Seizures As with other antipsychotic drugs, use ABILIFY ASIMTUFII cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or other conditions that potentially lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in a population of 65 years or older.
5.11 Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, like other antipsychotics, may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Instruct patients to be cautious about performing activities that require mental alertness such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that therapy with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII does not affect them adversely.
5.12 Body Temperature Regulation Disruption of the body's ability to reduce core body temperature has been attributed to antipsychotic agents. Appropriate care is advised when prescribing ABILIFY ASIMTUFII for patients who will be experiencing conditions which may contribute to an elevation in core body temperature, (e.g., exercising strenuously, exposure to extreme heat, receiving concomitant medication with anticholinergic activity, or being subject to dehydration).
5.13 Dysphagia Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use, including aripiprazole. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration .
Drug interactions
Dosage adjustments for patients taking CYP2D6 inhibitors, CYP3A4 inhibitors, or CYP3A4 inducers for greater than 14 days ( 2.4 , 7.1 ): Factors Dosage Recommendation CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers taking concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors Avoid use Patients taking strong CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors 720 mg For the 1-day initiation regimen, administer a single 20 mg oral aripiprazole, 300 mg Abilify Maintena and 720 mg ABILIFY ASIMTUFII on Day 1. Patients taking CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors Avoid use Patients taking CYP3A4 inducers Avoid use 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII Table 7 presents clinically significant drug interactions with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Table 7: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors AND/OR strong CYP2D6 inhibitors Clinical Rationale Concomitant use of oral aripiprazole with strong CYP3A4 AND/OR CYP2D6 inhibitors increased the exposure of aripiprazole [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Clinical Recommendation Concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor OR a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor Reduce the dosage of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII when administered concomitantly with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor OR a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor for more than 14 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ]. Concomitant Use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor AND a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor Avoid use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII when administered concomitantly with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor AND a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor for more than 14 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ]. Strong CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Rationale Concomitant use of oral aripiprazole and carbamazepine decreased the exposure of aripiprazole [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Clinical Recommendation Avoid use of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in combination with a strong CYP3A4 inducer (e.g., carbamazepine) for greater than 14 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . Antihypertensive Drugs Clinical Rationale Due to its alpha-adrenergic antagonism, aripiprazole has the potential to enhance the effect of certain antihypertensive agents. Clinical Recommendation Monitor blood pressure and adjust dose accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Benzodiazepines Clinical Rationale The intensity of sedation was greater with the combination of oral aripiprazole and lorazepam as compared to that observed with aripiprazole alone. The orthostatic hypotension observed was greater with the combination as compared to that observed with lorazepam alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Clinical Recommendation Monitor sedation and blood pressure. Adjust dose accordingly.
7.2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII Based on pharmacokinetic studies with oral aripiprazole, no dosage adjustment of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is required when administered concomitantly with famotidine, valproate, lithium, lorazepam [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In addition, no dosage adjustment is necessary for substrates of CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP3A4 when coadministered with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Additionally, no dosage adjustment is necessary for valproate, lithium, lamotrigine, lorazepam, or sertraline when coadministered with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .
Adverse reactions
The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia - Related Psychosis Use [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Tardive Dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Metabolic Changes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Pathological Gambling and Other Compulsive Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Falls [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Body Temperature Regulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Dysphagia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Most commonly observed adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) were increased weight, akathisia, injection site pain, and sedation ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. at 1-800-438-9927 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1 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 ABILIFY ASIMTUFII for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and maintenance monotherapy treatment of bipolar I disorder in adults is based on adequate and well-controlled studies of Abilify Maintena. The safety data from those studies is presented below. Safety Database of Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing) and Oral Aripiprazole. Oral aripiprazole has been evaluated for safety in 16,114 adult patients who participated in multiple-dose, clinical trials in schizophrenia and other indications, and who had approximately 8,578 patient-years of exposure to oral aripiprazole. A total of 3,901 patients were treated with oral aripiprazole for at least 180 days, 2,259 patients were treated with oral aripiprazole for at least 360 days, and 933 patients continuing aripiprazole treatment for at least 720 days. Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing) has been evaluated for safety in 2,128 adult patients in clinical trials in schizophrenia, with approximately 2,633 patient-years of exposure to Abilify Maintena. A total of 1,229 patients were treated with Abilify Maintena for at least 180 days (at least 7 consecutive injections) and 935 patients treated with Abilify Maintena had at least 1 year of exposure (at least 13 consecutive injections). Abilify Maintena has been evaluated for safety in 804 adult patients in clinical trials in bipolar I disorder, with approximately 530 patient-years of exposure to Abilify Maintena. A total of 419 patients were treated with Abilify Maintena for at least 180 days (at least 7 consecutive injections) and 287 patients treated with Abilify Maintena had at least 1 year of exposure (at least 13 consecutive injections). Safety Database of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII (once every 2 month dosing) In a 32 week open-label study of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in adult patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, 266 patients were randomized to receive either ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg (132 patients) or Abilify Maintena 400 mg (134 patients). A total of the 132 patients received at least one injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, a total of 114 patients received at least two consecutive injections (4 months treatment) of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, and a total of 104 patients received at least four consecutive injections (8 months treatment) of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Of the total 266 patients receiving ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg or Abilify Maintena 400 mg, 185 had schizophrenia and 81 had bipolar I disorder. Injection site reactions for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII (once every 2 month dosing) presented in this section is based on this open-label study (see section titled " Injection Site Reactions with Abilify ASIMTUFII "). Adverse Reactions in Studies with Abilify Maintena (once monthly dosing) The conditions and duration of treatment with Abilify Maintena included double-blind and open-label studies. The safety data presented below are derived from the 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled study of Abilify Maintena in adult patients with schizophrenia. Most Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials in Schizophrenia with Abilify Maintena Based on the placebo-controlled trial of Abilify Maintena in schizophrenia, the most commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the use of Abilify Maintena in patients (incidence of 5% or greater and aripiprazole incidence at least twice that for placebo) were increased weight (16.8% vs. 7.0%), akathisia (11.4% vs. 3.5%), injection site pain (5.4% vs. 0.6%) and sedation (5.4% vs. 1.2%). Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials in Schizophrenia with Abilify Maintena The following findings are based on the double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that compared Abilify Maintena 400 mg or 300 mg to placebo in patients with schizophrenia. Table 6 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of Abilify Maintena-treated patients and at a greater proportion than in the placebo group. Table 6: Adverse Reactions in ≥2% of Adult Patients with Schizophrenia Treated with Abilify Maintena in a 12-Week Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study This table does not include adverse reactions which had an incidence equal to or less than placebo. Preferred Term Abilify Maintena (n=167) Placebo (n=172) Gastrointestinal Disorders Constipation 10 7 Dry Mouth 4 2 Diarrhea 3 2 Vomiting 3 1 Abdominal Discomfort 2 1 General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Injection Site Pain 5 1 Infections and Infestations Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 4 2 Investigations Increased Weight 17 7 Decreased Weight 4 2 Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Arthralgia 4 1 Back Pain 4 2 Myalgia 4 2 Musculoskeletal pain 3 1 Nervous System Disorders Akathisia 11 4 Sedation 5 1 Dizziness 4 2 Tremor 3 1 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Nasal Congestion 2 1 Demographic Differences An examination of population subgroups was performed across demographic subgroup categories for adverse reactions experienced by at least 5% of Abilify Maintena patients at least twice the rate of placebo (i.e., increased weight, akathisia, injection site pain, and sedation) in the double-blind placebo-controlled trial. This analysis did not reveal evidence of differences in safety differential adverse reaction incidence on the basis of age, gender, or race alone; however, there were few patients ≥65 years of age. Injection Site Reactions with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII ABILIFY ASIMTUFII was evaluated in 266 patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder in an open-label, multiple-dose, randomized, parallel-arm multi-center study. The percentage of patients in the open-label study reporting any injection site-related adverse reactions (all reported as injection site pain) was 19% for patients treated with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg and 9% for patients treated with Abilify Maintena 400 mg. In both treatment groups, the majority of the injection site pain events coincided with the first injection of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg (21/24 patients) or Abilify Maintena 400 mg (7/12 patients), was reported with decreasing frequency upon subsequent injections. The overall mean visual analog scale scores (0=no pain to 100=unbearably painful) for patient reported rating of pain were similar in both treatment groups at the last injection: 0.8 pre-dose and 1.4 post-dose for the ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg group compared to 1.3 post-dose for the Abilify Maintena 400 mg group. Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) In the short-term, placebo-controlled trial of Abilify Maintena in adults with schizophrenia, the incidence of reported EPS-related events, excluding events related to akathisia, for Abilify Maintena-treated patients was 9.6% vs. 5.2% for placebo. The incidence of akathisia-related events for Abilify Maintena-treated patients was 11.5% vs. 3.5% for placebo. Dystonia Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first-generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups. In the short-term, placebo-controlled trial of Abilify Maintena in adults with schizophrenia, the incidence of dystonia was 1.8% for Abilify Maintena vs. 0.6% for placebo. Neutropenia In the short-term, placebo-controlled trial of Abilify Maintena in adults with schizophrenia, the incidence of neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count ≤1.5 thous/mcL) for Abilify Maintena-treated patients was 5.7% vs. 2.1% for placebo. An absolute neutrophil count of <1 thous/mcL (i.e., 0.95 thous/mcL) was observed in only one patient on Abilify Maintena and resolved spontaneously without any associated adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ]. Other Adverse Reactions During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Abilify Maintena The following listing does not include reactions: 1) already listed in previous tables or elsewhere in labeling, 2) for which a drug cause was remote, 3) which were so general as to be uninformative, 4) which were not considered to have significant clinical implications, or 5) which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo. Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: thrombocytopenia Cardiac Disorders: bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, tachycardia Endocrine Disorders: hypoprolactinemia Eye Disorders: vision blurred, oculogyric crisis Gastrointestinal Disorders: abdominal pain upper, dyspepsia, nausea, swollen tongue General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: chest discomfort, fatigue, gait disturbance, injection site reaction (erythema, induration, pruritus, swelling, rash, inflammation, hemorrhage), irritability, pyrexia Hepatobiliary Disorders: drug-induced liver injury Immune System Disorders: drug hypersensitivity Infections and Infestations: nasopharyngitis Investigations: blood creatine phosphokinase increased, blood cholesterol decreased, blood pressure decreased, blood triglycerides decreased, electrocardiogram T wave abnormal, electrocardiogram QT-prolonged, hepatic enzyme increased, liver function test abnormal Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: decreased appetite, hyperinsulinemia, obesity Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: joint stiffness, muscle twitching, rhabdomyolysis, trismus Nervous System Disorders: bradykinesia, convulsion, dysgeusia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypersomnia, lethargy, memory impairment, oromandibular dystonia, Psychiatric Disorders: anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, agitation, bruxism, psychotic disorder, suicidal ideation, aggression, hypersexuality, panic attack Renal and Urinary Disorders : glycosuria, pollakiuria, urinary incontinence Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: ejaculation delayed Vascular Disorders: hypertension Adverse Reactions Reported in Clinical Trials with Oral Aripiprazole The following is a list of additional adverse reactions that have been reported in clinical trials with oral aripiprazole and not reported above for Abilify Maintena: Cardiac Disorders: angina pectoris, atrial flutter, atrioventricular block, cardiopulmonary failure, cardio-respiratory arrest, extrasystoles, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia, palpitations, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia Eye Disorders: diplopia, photophobia, eyelid edema, photopsia Gastrointestinal Disorders: gastroesophageal reflux disease, swollen tongue, esophagitis, pancreatitis, stomach discomfort, toothache General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: asthenia, chest pain, face edema, hypothermia, peripheral edema, pain Hepatobiliary Disorders: hepatitis, jaundice Immune System Disorders: hypersensitivity Injury, Poisoning, and Procedural Complications: heat stroke Investigations: blood prolactin decreased, blood bilirubin increased, blood creatinine increased, blood glucose increased, blood lactate dehydrogenase increased, blood prolactin increased, blood urea increased, glycosylated hemoglobin increased Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: anorexia, diabetic ketoacidosis, hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, polydipsia Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: mobility decreased, muscle rigidity, muscle tightness, muscular weakness, musculoskeletal stiffness, pain in extremity, muscle spasms Nervous System Disorders: akinesia, choreoathetosis, coordination abnormal, hypokinesia, hypotonia, myoclonus, speech disorder Psychiatric Disorders: anger, anorgasmia, catatonia, completed suicide, delirium, loss of libido, homicidal ideation, intentional self-injury, hostility, libido increased, sleepwalking, suicide attempt, tic Renal and Urinary Disorders: nocturia, polyuria, urinary retention Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: amenorrhea, breast pain, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia, menstruation irregular, priapism Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: dyspnea, nasal congestion, pharyngolaryngeal pain, cough Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: alopecia, hyperhidrosis, photosensitivity reaction, pruritus, rash (including erythematous, exfoliative, generalized, macular, maculopapular, papular rash; acneiform, allergic, contact, exfoliative, seborrheic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, and drug eruption), urticaria 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of aripiprazole. 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: occurrences of allergic reaction (anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, laryngospasm, pruritus/urticaria, or oropharyngeal spasm), blood glucose fluctuation, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), hiccups, pathological gambling, and fecal incontinence.
Overdosage
Human Experience Common adverse reactions (reported in at least 5% of all overdose cases) reported with oral aripiprazole overdosage (alone or in combination with other substances) include vomiting, somnolence, and tremor. Other clinically important signs and symptoms observed in one or more patients with aripiprazole overdoses (alone or with other substances) include acidosis, aggression, aspartate aminotransferase increased, atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, coma, confusional state, convulsion, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, depressed level of consciousness, hypertension, hypokalemia, hypotension, lethargy, loss of consciousness, QRS complex prolonged, QT prolonged, pneumonia aspiration, respiratory arrest, status epilepticus, and tachycardia. Management of Overdosage In case of overdosage, call the Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations.
Use in specific populations
Pregnancy: May cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in neonates with third trimester exposure ( 8.1 ) Lactation: Monitor the breastfed infant for dehydration and lack of appropriate weight gain ( 8.2 )
8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/ . Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms (see Clinical Considerations ) . Overall available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to aripiprazole have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal outcomes. There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder and with exposure to antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations ). Aripiprazole exposure during pregnancy may decrease milk supply in the post-partum period [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ]. In animal reproduction studies, oral and intravenous aripiprazole administration during organogenesis in rats and/or rabbits at doses 10 and 11 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human oral dose (MRHD) produced fetal death, decreased fetal weight, undescended testicles, delayed skeletal ossification, skeletal abnormalities, and diaphragmatic hernia. Oral and intravenous aripiprazole administration during the pre- and post-natal period in rats at doses 10 times the oral MRHD produced prolonged gestation, stillbirths, decreased pup weight, and decreased pup survival (see Data ) . The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population 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. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including oral aripiprazole, during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Monitor neonates exhibiting extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Data Animal Data No developmental toxicity studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. In animal oral or intravenous studies, aripiprazole demonstrated developmental toxicity, including possible teratogenic effects in rats and rabbits. Pregnant rats were treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day which are approximately 1 to 10 times the oral MRHD of 30 mg/day on mg/m 2 basis of aripiprazole during the period of organogenesis. Treatment at the highest dose caused a slight prolongation of gestation and delay in fetal development, as evidenced by decreased fetal weight and undescended testes. Delayed skeletal ossification was observed at 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis. At 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, delivered offspring had decreased body weights. Increased incidences of hepatodiaphragmatic nodules and diaphragmatic hernia were observed in offspring from the highest dose group (the other dose groups were not examined for these findings). Postnatally, delayed vaginal opening was seen at 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis and impaired reproductive performance (decreased fertility rate, corpora lutea, implants, live fetuses, and increased post-implantation loss, likely mediated through effects on female offspring) along with some maternal toxicity were seen at the highest dose; however, there was no evidence to suggest that these developmental effects were secondary to maternal toxicity. In pregnant rats treated with aripiprazole intravenously at doses of 3, 9, and 27 mg/kg/day, which are 1 to 9 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, during the period of organogenesis, decreased fetal weight and delayed skeletal ossification were seen at the highest dose which also caused maternal toxicity. In pregnant rabbits treated with oral doses of 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day which are 2 to 11 times human exposure at the oral MRHD based on AUC and 6 to 65 times the oral MRHD of aripiprazole on mg/m 2 basis during the period of organogenesis, decreased maternal food consumption and increased abortions were seen at the highest dose as well as increased fetal mortality. Decreased fetal weight and increased incidence of fused sternebrae were observed at 3 and 11 times the oral MRHD based on AUC. In pregnant rabbits receiving aripiprazole injection intravenously at doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, which are 2 to 19 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis during the period of organogenesis, the highest dose caused pronounced maternal toxicity that resulted in decreased fetal weight, increased fetal abnormalities (primarily skeletal), and decreased fetal skeletal ossification. The fetal no-effect dose was 5 times the human exposure at the oral MRHD based on AUC and is 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis. In rats treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, which are 1 to 10 times the oral MRHD of aripiprazole on a mg/m 2 basis, peri- and post-natally (from Day 17 of gestation through Day 21 postpartum), slight maternal toxicity and slightly prolonged gestation were seen at the highest dose. An increase in stillbirths and decreases in pup weight (persisting into adulthood) and survival were also seen at this dose. In rats treated with aripiprazole intravenously at doses of 3, 8, and 20 mg/kg/day which are 1 to 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis from Day 6 of gestation through Day 20 postpartum, increased stillbirths were seen at 3 and 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, and decreases in early postnatal pup weight and survival were seen at the highest dose; these doses produced some maternal toxicity. There were no effects on postnatal behavioral and reproductive development.
8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Aripiprazole is present in human breast milk. Based on published case reports and pharmacovigilance reports, aripiprazole exposure during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period may lead to clinically relevant decreases in milk supply which may be reversible with discontinuation of the drug. There are also reports of aripiprazole exposure during pregnancy and no maternal milk supply in the post-partum period. Effects on milk supply may be mediated through decreases in prolactin levels, which have been observed [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Monitor the breastfed infant for dehydration and lack of appropriate weight gain. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from ABILIFY ASIMTUFII or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in pediatric patients have not been established. Juvenile Animal Studies No juvenile animal studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. A study with oral aripiprazole in juvenile rats caused mortality, CNS clinical signs, impaired memory and learning, and delayed sexual maturation when administered at doses of 10, 20, 40 mg/kg/day from weaning (21 days old) through maturity (80 days old). At 40 mg/kg/day, mortality, decreased activity, splayed hind limbs, hunched posture, ataxia, tremors and other CNS signs were observed in both genders. In addition, delayed sexual maturation was observed in males. At all doses and in a dose-dependent manner, impaired memory and learning, increased motor activity, and histopathology changes in the pituitary (atrophy), adrenals (adrenocortical hypertrophy), mammary glands (hyperplasia and increased secretion), and female reproductive organs (vaginal mucification, endometrial atrophy, decrease in ovarian corpora lutea) were observed. The changes in female reproductive organs were considered secondary to the increase in prolactin serum levels. A No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) could not be determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 10 mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin relative to the systemic exposures (AUC 0-24 ) for aripiprazole or its major active metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended oral pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period, and most of the drug effects in juvenile rats were also observed in adult rats from previously conducted studies. Aripiprazole in juvenile dogs (2 months old) caused CNS clinical signs of tremors, hypoactivity, ataxia, recumbency and limited use of hind limbs when administered orally for 6 months at 3, 10, 30 mg/kg/day. Mean body weight and weight gain were decreased up to 18% in females in all drug groups relative to control values. A NOAEL could not be determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 3 mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin relative to the systemic exposures (AUC 0-24 ) for aripiprazole or its major active metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended oral pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period.
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience and pharmacokinetic data have not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. In single-dose and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic studies with oral aripiprazole, there was no detectable age effect in the population pharmacokinetic analysis in schizophrenia patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . No dosage adjustments are recommended based on age alone. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see also Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ].
8.6 CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers Dosage adjustment is recommended in known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers due to high aripiprazole concentrations. Approximately 8% of Caucasians and 3% to 8% of Black/African Americans cannot metabolize CYP2D6 substrates and are classified as poor metabolizers (PM) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] .
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/ . Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms (see Clinical Considerations ) . Overall available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to aripiprazole have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal outcomes. There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder and with exposure to antipsychotics, including ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations ). Aripiprazole exposure during pregnancy may decrease milk supply in the post-partum period [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ]. In animal reproduction studies, oral and intravenous aripiprazole administration during organogenesis in rats and/or rabbits at doses 10 and 11 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human oral dose (MRHD) produced fetal death, decreased fetal weight, undescended testicles, delayed skeletal ossification, skeletal abnormalities, and diaphragmatic hernia. Oral and intravenous aripiprazole administration during the pre- and post-natal period in rats at doses 10 times the oral MRHD produced prolonged gestation, stillbirths, decreased pup weight, and decreased pup survival (see Data ) . The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population 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. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including oral aripiprazole, during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Monitor neonates exhibiting extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Data Animal Data No developmental toxicity studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. In animal oral or intravenous studies, aripiprazole demonstrated developmental toxicity, including possible teratogenic effects in rats and rabbits. Pregnant rats were treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day which are approximately 1 to 10 times the oral MRHD of 30 mg/day on mg/m 2 basis of aripiprazole during the period of organogenesis. Treatment at the highest dose caused a slight prolongation of gestation and delay in fetal development, as evidenced by decreased fetal weight and undescended testes. Delayed skeletal ossification was observed at 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis. At 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, delivered offspring had decreased body weights. Increased incidences of hepatodiaphragmatic nodules and diaphragmatic hernia were observed in offspring from the highest dose group (the other dose groups were not examined for these findings). Postnatally, delayed vaginal opening was seen at 3 and 10 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis and impaired reproductive performance (decreased fertility rate, corpora lutea, implants, live fetuses, and increased post-implantation loss, likely mediated through effects on female offspring) along with some maternal toxicity were seen at the highest dose; however, there was no evidence to suggest that these developmental effects were secondary to maternal toxicity. In pregnant rats treated with aripiprazole intravenously at doses of 3, 9, and 27 mg/kg/day, which are 1 to 9 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, during the period of organogenesis, decreased fetal weight and delayed skeletal ossification were seen at the highest dose which also caused maternal toxicity. In pregnant rabbits treated with oral doses of 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day which are 2 to 11 times human exposure at the oral MRHD based on AUC and 6 to 65 times the oral MRHD of aripiprazole on mg/m 2 basis during the period of organogenesis, decreased maternal food consumption and increased abortions were seen at the highest dose as well as increased fetal mortality. Decreased fetal weight and increased incidence of fused sternebrae were observed at 3 and 11 times the oral MRHD based on AUC. In pregnant rabbits receiving aripiprazole injection intravenously at doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, which are 2 to 19 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis during the period of organogenesis, the highest dose caused pronounced maternal toxicity that resulted in decreased fetal weight, increased fetal abnormalities (primarily skeletal), and decreased fetal skeletal ossification. The fetal no-effect dose was 5 times the human exposure at the oral MRHD based on AUC and is 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis. In rats treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, which are 1 to 10 times the oral MRHD of aripiprazole on a mg/m 2 basis, peri- and post-natally (from Day 17 of gestation through Day 21 postpartum), slight maternal toxicity and slightly prolonged gestation were seen at the highest dose. An increase in stillbirths and decreases in pup weight (persisting into adulthood) and survival were also seen at this dose. In rats treated with aripiprazole intravenously at doses of 3, 8, and 20 mg/kg/day which are 1 to 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis from Day 6 of gestation through Day 20 postpartum, increased stillbirths were seen at 3 and 6 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis, and decreases in early postnatal pup weight and survival were seen at the highest dose; these doses produced some maternal toxicity. There were no effects on postnatal behavioral and reproductive development.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in pediatric patients have not been established. Juvenile Animal Studies No juvenile animal studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. A study with oral aripiprazole in juvenile rats caused mortality, CNS clinical signs, impaired memory and learning, and delayed sexual maturation when administered at doses of 10, 20, 40 mg/kg/day from weaning (21 days old) through maturity (80 days old). At 40 mg/kg/day, mortality, decreased activity, splayed hind limbs, hunched posture, ataxia, tremors and other CNS signs were observed in both genders. In addition, delayed sexual maturation was observed in males. At all doses and in a dose-dependent manner, impaired memory and learning, increased motor activity, and histopathology changes in the pituitary (atrophy), adrenals (adrenocortical hypertrophy), mammary glands (hyperplasia and increased secretion), and female reproductive organs (vaginal mucification, endometrial atrophy, decrease in ovarian corpora lutea) were observed. The changes in female reproductive organs were considered secondary to the increase in prolactin serum levels. A No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) could not be determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 10 mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin relative to the systemic exposures (AUC 0-24 ) for aripiprazole or its major active metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended oral pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period, and most of the drug effects in juvenile rats were also observed in adult rats from previously conducted studies. Aripiprazole in juvenile dogs (2 months old) caused CNS clinical signs of tremors, hypoactivity, ataxia, recumbency and limited use of hind limbs when administered orally for 6 months at 3, 10, 30 mg/kg/day. Mean body weight and weight gain were decreased up to 18% in females in all drug groups relative to control values. A NOAEL could not be determined and, at the lowest tested dose of 3 mg/kg/day, there is no safety margin relative to the systemic exposures (AUC 0-24 ) for aripiprazole or its major active metabolite in adolescents at the maximum recommended oral pediatric dose of 15 mg/day. All drug-related effects were reversible after a 2-month recovery period.
Geriatric use
Clinical studies of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience and pharmacokinetic data have not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. In single-dose and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic studies with oral aripiprazole, there was no detectable age effect in the population pharmacokinetic analysis in schizophrenia patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . No dosage adjustments are recommended based on age alone. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see also Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ].
Description
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic which is present in ABILIFY ASIMTUFII as its monohydrate polymorphic form. Aripiprazole monohydrate is 7-[4-[4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl] butoxy]-3,4 dihydrocarbostyril monohydrate. The empirical formula is C 23 H 27 Cl 2 N 3 O 2∙ H 2 O and its molecular weight is 466.40. The chemical structure is: ABILIFY ASIMTUFII (aripiprazole) is available as a white to off-white, sterile, aqueous extended-release suspension for intramuscular injection in 720 mg or 960 mg dose strength, pre-filled syringes. The labeled strengths are calculated based on the anhydrous form (aripiprazole). Inactive ingredients are carboxymethylcellulose sodium (5 mg/mL), polyethylene glycol 400 (1 mg/mL), povidone (4 mg/mL), sodium chloride (6.1 mg/mL), sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate (0.74 mg/mL), sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH) and water for injection (q.s.). Chemical Structure
Clinical pharmacology
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of aripiprazole in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder is unknown. The efficacy of aripiprazole could be mediated through a combination of partial agonist activity at dopamine D 2 and serotonin 5-HT 1A receptors and antagonist activity at 5-HT 2A receptors.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics Aripiprazole exhibits high affinity for dopamine D 2 and D 3 (K i s 0.34 and 0.8 nM, respectively), serotonin 5-HT 1A and 5-HT 2A receptors (K i s 1.7 and 3.4 nM, respectively), moderate affinity for dopamine D 4 , serotonin 5-HT 2C and 5-HT 7 , alpha 1 -adrenergic and histamine H 1 receptors (K i s of 44 nM, 15 nM, 39 nM, 57 nM, and 61 nM, respectively), and moderate affinity for the serotonin reuptake site (K i= 98 nM). Aripiprazole has no appreciable affinity for cholinergic muscarinic receptors (IC 50 >1000 nM). Actions at receptors other than D 2 , 5-HT 1A , and 5-HT 2A could explain some of the other adverse reactions of aripiprazole (e.g., the orthostatic hypotension observed with aripiprazole may be explained by its antagonist activity at adrenergic alpha 1 receptors). ABILIFY ASIMTUFII activity is presumably primarily due to the parent drug, aripiprazole, and to a lesser extent, to its major metabolite, dehydro-aripiprazole, which has been shown to have affinities for D 2 receptors.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics ABILIFY ASIMTUFII delivers aripiprazole over a 2-month period. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII has linear pharmacokinetics in the approved dose range. Steady-state aripiprazole exposures were reached by the fourth dose. Plasma exposures at steady state were compared between ABILIFY ASIMTUFII (960 mg, once every 2 months) and Abilify Maintena (400 mg, once every month). The average plasma concentrations (C avg ) of aripiprazole were 263 ng/mL and 280 ng/mL for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and Abilify Maintena, respectively. The C max of aripiprazole were 342 ng/mL and 344 ng/mL for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and Abilify Maintena, respectively. Figure 9: Mean Plasma Concentration of Aripiprazole Following the Fourth Administration of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg versus the Seventh and Eighth Administration of Abilify Maintena 400 mg Figure 9 Absorption Aripiprazole absorption into the systemic circulation is prolonged following gluteal intramuscular injection due to low solubility of aripiprazole particles. The release profile of aripiprazole from ABILIFY ASIMTUFII results in sustained plasma concentrations over 2 months following gluteal injection(s). Following multiple doses, the median peak:trough ratio for aripiprazole following an ABILIFY ASIMTUFII dose is 1.3, resulting in a flat plasma concentration profile with T max ranging between 1 to 49 days following multiple gluteal administrations of 960 mg. Distribution Based on results from trials with oral administration of aripiprazole, aripiprazole is widely distributed throughout the body with an apparent volume of distribution of 4.9 L/kg, indicating extensive extravascular distribution. At therapeutic concentrations, aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole are greater than 99% bound to serum proteins, binding primarily to albumin. Elimination Following single dose administration of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, the mean apparent terminal elimination half-life of aripiprazole was 21 days. Metabolism Aripiprazole is metabolized primarily by three biotransformation pathways: dehydrogenation, hydroxylation, and N-dealkylation. Based on in vitro studies, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes are responsible for dehydrogenation and hydroxylation of aripiprazole, and N-dealkylation is catalyzed by CYP3A4. Aripiprazole is the predominant drug moiety in the systemic circulation. Following administration of multiple doses of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, dehydro-aripiprazole, the active metabolite, represents approximately 29% of aripiprazole AUC in plasma. Excretion Following a single oral dose of [14C]-labeled aripiprazole, approximately 25% and 55% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in the urine and feces, respectively. Less than 1% of unchanged aripiprazole was excreted in the urine and approximately 18% of the oral dose was recovered unchanged in the feces. Studies in Specific Populations No specific pharmacokinetic studies have been performed with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in specific populations. All the information is obtained from studies with oral aripiprazole or is based on the pharmacokinetic modeling of oral aripiprazole and/or ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Exposures of aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole in specific populations are summarized in Figure 10 and Figure 11, respectively. In addition, in pediatric patients (10 to 17 years of age) administered with oral aripiprazole (20 mg to 30 mg), the body weight corrected aripiprazole clearance was similar to the adults. Figure 10: Effect of Intrinsic Factors on Aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 11: Effects of Intrinsic Factors on Dehydro-aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 10 Figure 11 Drug Interaction Studies No specific drug interaction studies have been performed with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. The information below is obtained from studies with oral aripiprazole. The effect of other drugs on the exposures of aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole are summarized in Figure 12 and Figure 13, respectively. Based on simulations, a 4.5-fold increase in mean C max and AUC values at steady-state is expected when extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6 are administered with both strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors. After oral administration, a 3-fold increase in mean C max and AUC values at steady-state is expected in poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Figure 12: The Effect of Other Drugs on Aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 13: The Effect of Other Drugs on Dehydro-aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics The effect of oral aripiprazole on the exposures of other drugs are summarized in Figure 14. A population PK analysis in patients with major depressive disorder showed no substantial change in plasma concentrations of fluoxetine (20 mg/day or 40 mg/day), paroxetine CR (37.5 mg/day or 50 mg/day), or sertraline (100 mg/day or 150 mg/day) dosed to steady-state. The steady-state plasma concentrations of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine increased by about 18% and 36%, respectively, and concentrations of paroxetine decreased by about 27%. The steady-state plasma concentrations of sertraline and desmethylsertraline were not substantially changed when these antidepressant therapies were coadministered with aripiprazole. Figure 14: The Effect of Oral Aripiprazole on Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs In vitro Aripiprazole is not a substrate of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP2E1 enzymes. Aripiprazole also does not undergo direct glucuronidation. Figure 12 Figure 13 Figure 14
Mechanism of action
The mechanism of action of aripiprazole in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder is unknown. The efficacy of aripiprazole could be mediated through a combination of partial agonist activity at dopamine D 2 and serotonin 5-HT 1A receptors and antagonist activity at 5-HT 2A receptors.
Pharmacodynamics
Aripiprazole exhibits high affinity for dopamine D 2 and D 3 (K i s 0.34 and 0.8 nM, respectively), serotonin 5-HT 1A and 5-HT 2A receptors (K i s 1.7 and 3.4 nM, respectively), moderate affinity for dopamine D 4 , serotonin 5-HT 2C and 5-HT 7 , alpha 1 -adrenergic and histamine H 1 receptors (K i s of 44 nM, 15 nM, 39 nM, 57 nM, and 61 nM, respectively), and moderate affinity for the serotonin reuptake site (K i= 98 nM). Aripiprazole has no appreciable affinity for cholinergic muscarinic receptors (IC 50 >1000 nM). Actions at receptors other than D 2 , 5-HT 1A , and 5-HT 2A could explain some of the other adverse reactions of aripiprazole (e.g., the orthostatic hypotension observed with aripiprazole may be explained by its antagonist activity at adrenergic alpha 1 receptors). ABILIFY ASIMTUFII activity is presumably primarily due to the parent drug, aripiprazole, and to a lesser extent, to its major metabolite, dehydro-aripiprazole, which has been shown to have affinities for D 2 receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
ABILIFY ASIMTUFII delivers aripiprazole over a 2-month period. ABILIFY ASIMTUFII has linear pharmacokinetics in the approved dose range. Steady-state aripiprazole exposures were reached by the fourth dose. Plasma exposures at steady state were compared between ABILIFY ASIMTUFII (960 mg, once every 2 months) and Abilify Maintena (400 mg, once every month). The average plasma concentrations (C avg ) of aripiprazole were 263 ng/mL and 280 ng/mL for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and Abilify Maintena, respectively. The C max of aripiprazole were 342 ng/mL and 344 ng/mL for ABILIFY ASIMTUFII and Abilify Maintena, respectively. Figure 9: Mean Plasma Concentration of Aripiprazole Following the Fourth Administration of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII 960 mg versus the Seventh and Eighth Administration of Abilify Maintena 400 mg Figure 9 Absorption Aripiprazole absorption into the systemic circulation is prolonged following gluteal intramuscular injection due to low solubility of aripiprazole particles. The release profile of aripiprazole from ABILIFY ASIMTUFII results in sustained plasma concentrations over 2 months following gluteal injection(s). Following multiple doses, the median peak:trough ratio for aripiprazole following an ABILIFY ASIMTUFII dose is 1.3, resulting in a flat plasma concentration profile with T max ranging between 1 to 49 days following multiple gluteal administrations of 960 mg. Distribution Based on results from trials with oral administration of aripiprazole, aripiprazole is widely distributed throughout the body with an apparent volume of distribution of 4.9 L/kg, indicating extensive extravascular distribution. At therapeutic concentrations, aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole are greater than 99% bound to serum proteins, binding primarily to albumin. Elimination Following single dose administration of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, the mean apparent terminal elimination half-life of aripiprazole was 21 days. Metabolism Aripiprazole is metabolized primarily by three biotransformation pathways: dehydrogenation, hydroxylation, and N-dealkylation. Based on in vitro studies, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes are responsible for dehydrogenation and hydroxylation of aripiprazole, and N-dealkylation is catalyzed by CYP3A4. Aripiprazole is the predominant drug moiety in the systemic circulation. Following administration of multiple doses of ABILIFY ASIMTUFII, dehydro-aripiprazole, the active metabolite, represents approximately 29% of aripiprazole AUC in plasma. Excretion Following a single oral dose of [14C]-labeled aripiprazole, approximately 25% and 55% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in the urine and feces, respectively. Less than 1% of unchanged aripiprazole was excreted in the urine and approximately 18% of the oral dose was recovered unchanged in the feces. Studies in Specific Populations No specific pharmacokinetic studies have been performed with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII in specific populations. All the information is obtained from studies with oral aripiprazole or is based on the pharmacokinetic modeling of oral aripiprazole and/or ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Exposures of aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole in specific populations are summarized in Figure 10 and Figure 11, respectively. In addition, in pediatric patients (10 to 17 years of age) administered with oral aripiprazole (20 mg to 30 mg), the body weight corrected aripiprazole clearance was similar to the adults. Figure 10: Effect of Intrinsic Factors on Aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 11: Effects of Intrinsic Factors on Dehydro-aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 10 Figure 11 Drug Interaction Studies No specific drug interaction studies have been performed with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. The information below is obtained from studies with oral aripiprazole. The effect of other drugs on the exposures of aripiprazole and dehydro-aripiprazole are summarized in Figure 12 and Figure 13, respectively. Based on simulations, a 4.5-fold increase in mean C max and AUC values at steady-state is expected when extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6 are administered with both strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors. After oral administration, a 3-fold increase in mean C max and AUC values at steady-state is expected in poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Figure 12: The Effect of Other Drugs on Aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics Figure 13: The Effect of Other Drugs on Dehydro-aripiprazole Pharmacokinetics The effect of oral aripiprazole on the exposures of other drugs are summarized in Figure 14. A population PK analysis in patients with major depressive disorder showed no substantial change in plasma concentrations of fluoxetine (20 mg/day or 40 mg/day), paroxetine CR (37.5 mg/day or 50 mg/day), or sertraline (100 mg/day or 150 mg/day) dosed to steady-state. The steady-state plasma concentrations of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine increased by about 18% and 36%, respectively, and concentrations of paroxetine decreased by about 27%. The steady-state plasma concentrations of sertraline and desmethylsertraline were not substantially changed when these antidepressant therapies were coadministered with aripiprazole. Figure 14: The Effect of Oral Aripiprazole on Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs In vitro Aripiprazole is not a substrate of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP2E1 enzymes. Aripiprazole also does not undergo direct glucuronidation. Figure 12 Figure 13 Figure 14
Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, fertility
, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis No carcinogenicity studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. Lifetime carcinogenicity studies were conducted with oral aripiprazole in Swiss albino mice, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and F344 rats. Oral aripiprazole was administered for 2 years in the diet at doses of 1, 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day to ICR mice and 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg/day to F344 rats (0.2 to 5 times and 0.3 to 3 times oral MRHD based on mg/m 2 , respectively). In addition, SD rats were dosed orally for 2 years at 10, 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg/day (3 to 19 times the oral MRHD based on mg/m 2 ). Aripiprazole did not induce tumors in male mice or male rats. In female mice, the incidence of pituitary gland adenomas, mammary gland adenocarcinomas and adenoacanthomas were increased at dietary doses of 3 to 30 mg/kg/day (0.5 to 5 times the oral MRHD based on mg/m 2 ). In female rats, the incidence of mammary gland fibroadenomas was increased at a dietary dose of 10 mg/kg/day (3 times the oral MRHD based on mg/m 2 ); and the incidences of adrenocortical carcinomas and combined adrenocortical adenomas/carcinomas were increased at an oral dose of 60 mg/kg/day (19 times the oral MRHD based on mg/m 2 ). Proliferative changes in the pituitary and mammary gland of rodents have been observed following chronic administration of other antipsychotic agents and are considered prolactin-mediated. Serum prolactin was not measured in the aripiprazole carcinogenicity studies. However, increases in serum prolactin levels were observed in female mice in a 13-week dietary study at the doses associated with mammary gland and pituitary tumors. Serum prolactin was not increased in female rats in 4-week and 13-week dietary studies at the dose associated with mammary gland tumors. The relevance for human risk of the findings of prolactin-mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unknown. Mutagenesis The mutagenic potential of aripiprazole was tested in the in vitro bacterial reverse-mutation assay, the in vitro bacterial DNA repair assay, the in vitro forward gene mutation assay in mouse lymphoma cells, the in vitro chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster lung (CHL) cells, the in vivo micronucleus assay in mice, and the unscheduled DNA synthesis assay in rats. Aripiprazole and a metabolite (2,3-DCPP) were clastogenic in the in vitro chromosomal aberration assay in CHL cells with and without metabolic activation. The metabolite, 2,3-DCPP, produced increases in numerical aberrations in the in vitro assay in CHL cells in the absence of metabolic activation. A positive response was obtained in the in vivo micronucleus assay in mice; however, the response was due to a mechanism not considered relevant to humans. Impairment of Fertility No mating and fertility studies were conducted with intramuscular aripiprazole suspension. Female rats were treated with aripiprazole oral doses of 2, 6, and 20 mg/kg/day (0.6, 2, and 6 times the oral MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis) of aripiprazole from 2 weeks prior to mating through Day 7 of gestation. Estrus cycle irregularities and increased corpora lutea were seen at all doses, but no impairment of fertility was seen. Increased pre-implantation loss was seen at 6 and 20 mg/kg/day and decreased fetal weight was seen at 20 mg/kg/day. Male rats were treated with oral doses of 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg/day (6, 13, and 19 times the oral MRHD on mg/m 2 basis) of aripiprazole from 9 weeks prior to mating through mating. Disturbances in spermatogenesis were seen at 60 mg/kg and prostate atrophy was seen at 40 and 60 mg/kg, but no impairment of fertility was seen.
Information for patients
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide ) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Counsel patients about a potentially fatal adverse reaction, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) that has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Advise patients, family members, or caregivers to contact a health care provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs and symptoms of NMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Tardive Dyskinesia Counsel patients on the signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia and to contact their health care provider if these abnormal movements occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Metabolic Changes Educate patients about the risk of metabolic changes, how to recognize symptoms of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, and the need for specific monitoring, including blood glucose, lipids, and weight [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. Pathological Gambling and Other Compulsive Behaviors Advise patients and their caregivers of the possibility that they may experience compulsive urges to shop, increased urges to gamble, compulsive sexual urges, binge eating and/or other compulsive urges and the inability to control these urges while taking ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. In some cases, but not all, the urges were reported to have stopped when the dose was reduced or stopped [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope Educate patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope, especially early in treatment, and also at times of re-initiating treatment or increases in dosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Leukopenia/Neutropenia Advise patients with a pre-existing low WBC count or a history of drug-induced leucopenia/neutropenia that they should have their CBC monitored while receiving ABILIFY ASIMTUFII [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ]. Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment Inform patients that ABILIFY ASIMTUFII has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Caution patients about performing activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that ABILIFY ASIMTUFII therapy does not affect them adversely [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] . Heat Exposure and Dehydration Educate patients regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ]. Concomitant Medication Advise patients to inform their health care providers of any changes to their current prescription or over-the-counter medications because there is a potential for clinically significant interactions [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with ABILIFY ASIMTUFII. Advise patients that ABILIFY ASIMTUFII may cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms (agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder) in a neonate. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ABILIFY ASIMTUFII during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. Lactation ABILIFY ASIMTUFII use during pregnancy may affect milk supply. Advise the lactating patient to discuss any plans for breastfeeding with their healthcare provider, and to monitor the breastfed infant for dehydration and lack of appropriate weight gain [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ].
Storage and handling
Storage Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted between 15° and 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].