Penpulimab
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Anum Ijaz M.B.B.S., M.D.[2]
WikiDoc MAKES NO GUARANTEE OF VALIDITY. WikiDoc is not a professional health care provider, nor is it a suitable replacement for a licensed healthcare provider. WikiDoc is intended to be an educational tool, not a tool for any form of healthcare delivery. The educational content on WikiDoc drug pages is based upon the FDA package insert, National Library of Medicine content and practice guidelines / consensus statements. WikiDoc does not promote the administration of any medication or device that is not consistent with its labeling. Please read our full disclaimer here.
Overview
Penpulimab is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1)-blocking antibody that is FDA approved for the treatment of In combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine for the first-line treatment of adults with recurrent or metastatic non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).As a single agent for the treatment of adults with metastatic non-keratinizing NPC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other prior line of therapy.. Common adverse reactions include Penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine: The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were nausea, vomiting, hypothyroidism, constipation, decreased appetite, decreased weight, cough, COVID-19 infection, fatigue, rash, and pyrexia.Penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent: The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were anemia and hypothyroidism..
Adult Indications and Dosage
FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Adult)
FDA-labeled Indications
- First-line Treatment of Recurrent or Metastatic Non-Keratinizing Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Penpulimab-kcqx, in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adults with recurrent or metastatic non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).
- Recurrent Metastatic Non-Keratinizing Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Penpulimab-kcqx, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adults with metastatic non-keratinizing NPC and disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other prior line of therapy.
Recommended Dosage of Penpulimab-kcqx in Combination with Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine – Every 3 Week Dosing
First-line Treatment of Recurrent or Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
- The recommended dosage of penpulimab-kcqx is 200 mg administered as an intravenous infusion over 60 minutes every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, for a maximum of 24 months.
Add Table 1 Penpulimab
Recommended Dosage of Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent – Every 2 Week Dosing
Recurrent Metastatic Non-Keratinizing Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
- The recommended dosage of penpulimab-kcqx is 200 mg administered as an intravenous infusion over 60 minutes every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, for a maximum of 24 months.
Dosage Modifications of Penpulimab-kcqx for Adverse Reactions
- No dose reduction for penpulimab-kcqx is recommended.
- In general, withhold penpulimab-kcqx for severe (Grade 3) immune-mediated adverse reactions.
- Permanently discontinue penpulimab-kcqx for life-threatening (Grade 4) immune-mediated adverse reactions, recurrent severe (Grade 3) immune-mediated reactions that require systemic immunosuppressive treatment, or an inability to reduce corticosteroid dose to 10 mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day within 12 weeks of initiating steroids.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
- Injection: 100 mg/10 mL (10 mg/mL) as a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to yellowish solution in a single-dose vial.
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Adult)
Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Penpulimab in adult patients.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Penpulimab in adult patients.
Pediatric Indications and Dosage
FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric) in the drug label.
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Pediatric)
Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Penpulimab in pediatric patients.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Penpulimab in pediatric patients.
Contraindications
None.
Warnings
Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions
- Penpulimab-kcqx is a monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death-receptor 1 (PD-1) or the PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions.
- Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue and can affect more than one body system simultaneously.
- Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment with a PD-1/PD- L1 blocking antibody. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment with PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies, immune-mediated adverse reactions can also manifest after discontinuation of PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies.
- Early identification and management of immune-mediated adverse reactions are essential to ensure safe use of PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies.
- Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment.
- In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.
- Withhold or permanently discontinue penpulimab-kcqx depending on severity.
- In general, if penpulimab-kcqx requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 mg to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less.
- Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month.
- Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy.
- Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic steroids (e.g., endocrinopathies and dermatologic reactions) are discussed below.
1. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis Penpulimab-kcqx can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. In patients treated with other PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies, the incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation.
Penpulimab-kcqx in Combinationwith EitherCisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine
Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 0.7% (1/146) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, which was a Grade 2 (0.7%) adverse reaction. Systemic corticosteroids were required in the patient. Pneumonitis led to withholding of penpulimab-kcqx in the patient.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent
Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 1.3% (5/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 3 (0.5%), Grade 2 (0.5%) and Grade 1 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 80% (4/5) of patients with pneumonitis. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.8% (3/372). Pneumonitis resolved in 20% (1/5) of these patients.
2. Immune-Mediated Colitis Penpulimab-kcqx can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection/reactivation can occur in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent
Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.1% (4/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 2 (0.8%) and Grade 1 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 75% (3/4) of patients with colitis. Colitis led to withholding of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.8% (3/372) of patients.
Immune-Mediated Hepatitis and Hepatotoxicity
Penpulimab-kcqx can cause immune-mediated hepatitis.
Penpulimab-kcqx in Combinationwith Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine
Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 0.7% (1/146) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, which was a Grade 2 (0.7%) adverse reaction. Systemic corticosteroids and withholding of penpulimab-kcqx were required in this patient.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent
Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 3.8% (14/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 3 (0.8%), Grade 2 (1.3%) and Grade 1 (1.6%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 14% (2/14) of patients with hepatitis. Hepatitis led to permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.3% (1/372) and withholding of penpulimab-kcqx in 2.2% (8/372) of patients. Hepatitis resolved in 64% (9/14) of these patients.
3. Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies
Adrenal Insufficiency
Penpulimab-kcqx can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold penpulimab-kcqx depending on severity.
Hypophysitis
Penpulimab-kcqx can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field defects. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate hormone replacement as indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue penpulimab-kcqx depending on severity.
Thyroid Disorders:
Penpulimab-kcqx can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism or institute medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue penpulimab-kcqx based on the severity.
Penpulimab-kcqx in Combinationwith Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine
Hyperthyroidism:Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 2.1% (3/146) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, including Grade 2 (0.7%) and Grade 1 (1.4%) adverse reactions.
Hypothyroidism:Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 16% (26/146) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, including Grade 2 (13%) and Grade 1 (4.8%) adverse reactions. Penpulimab-kcqx was withheld in 0.7% (1/146) of patients. Hypothyroidism resolved in 12% (3/26) of these patients.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent
Thyroiditis:Thyroiditis occurred in 0.5% (2/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 2 (0.3%) and Grade 1 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Thyroiditis led to withholding of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.3% (1/372) of patients. Thyroiditis was resolved in 50% (1/2) of patients.
Hyperthyroidism:Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 7% (24/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 2 (1.1%) and Grade 1 (5%) adverse reactions. Penpulimab-kcqx was withheld in 0.5% (2/372) of patients. Hyperthyroidism resolved in 79% (19/24) of these patients.
Hypothyroidism:Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 19% (69/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx, including Grade 2 (7%) and Grade 1 (12%) adverse reactions. Penpulimab-kcqx was withheld in 1.6% (6/372) of patients. Hypothyroidism resolved in 48% (33/69) of these patients.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, which can present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. Withhold penpulimab-kcqx depending on severity.
Penpulimab-kcqx in Combinationwith Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine
Diabetes occurred in 2.7% (4/146) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, including Grade 4 (0.7%), Grade 3 (0.7%), Grade 2 (0.7%) and Grade 1 (0.7%) adverse reactions. Diabetes led to permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.7% (1/146) and withholding of penpulimab-kcqx in 0.7% (1/146) of patients. Diabetes was resolving in 75% (3/4) of these patients.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent
Diabetes occurred in 0.8% (3/372) of patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent, including Grade 1 (0.8%) adverse reactions. Diabetes resolved in 67% (2/3) of these patients.
4. Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of <1% (unless otherwise noted) in patients who received penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine or single-agent penpulimab-kcqx or were reported with the use of other PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies. Severe or fatal cases have been reported for some of these adverse reactions.
Cardiac/vascular:Myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis.
Nervous system:Meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barré syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy, nerve injury.
Ocular:Uveitis, iritis, and other ocular inflammatory toxicities can occur. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment including blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.
Gastrointestinal:Pancreatitis to include increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis.
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue:Myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis and associated sequelae including renal failure, arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatic.
Endocrine:Hypoparathyroidism.
Hematologic/Immune:Hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, solid organ transplant rejection, other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection.
Infusion-Related Reactions
- Penpulimab-kcqx can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions, including hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis.
- Discontinue penpulimab-kcqx in patients with severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion in patients with mild or moderate infusion-related reactions.
- Penpulimab-kcqx in Combinationwith Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine: Infusion-related reactions occurred in 3.4% of 146 patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, including Grade 2 (1.4%) and Grade 1 (2.1%) infusion related reactions.
- Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single Agent:
Infusion-related reactions occurred in 10% of 372 patients receiving penpulimab-kcqx as single agent, including Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.3%), Grade 2 (6%) and Grade 1 (3.8%) infusion related reactions. Penpulimab-kcqx was withheld in 0.8% (3/372) and permanently discontinued in 0.3% (1/372) of patients.
Complications of Allogeneic HSCT
- Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody.
- Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause).
- These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and Allogeneic HSCT.
- Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly.
- Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody prior to or after an Allogeneic HSCT.
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
- Based on its mechanism of action, penpulimab-kcqx can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Animal studies have demonstrated that inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can lead to increased risk of immune-mediated rejection of the developing fetus resulting in fetal death.
- Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
- Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with penpulimab-kcqx and for 4 months after the last dose
Adverse Reactions
Clinical Trials Experience
Clinical Trials Experience
- Because clinical trials are conducted under varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to those observed in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
- The data described in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS reflect exposure to penpulimab-kcqx in 146 patients in Study AK105-304.
- Patients received 6 cycles every 3 weeks of intravenous penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg in combination with either cisplatin 80 mg/m 2 or carboplatin AUC 5 and gemcitabine 1000 mg/m 2 followed by single-agent penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg every 3 weeks until disease progression or a maximum of 24 months. Among the 146 patients who received penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, 71% were exposed for 6 months or longer and 38% were exposed for greater than one year.
- In this safety population, the most common (≥ 20%) adverse reactions were nausea (58%), vomiting (55%), hypothyroidism (45%), constipation (41%), decreased appetite (36%), decreased weight (26%), cough (25%), COVID-19 infection (25%), fatigue (25%), rash (24%) and pyrexia (21%).
- The most common Grade 3 to 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥ 2%) were decreased lymphocytes (70%), decreased neutrophils (61%), decreased white blood cells (58%), decreased hemoglobin (49%), decreased platelets (33%), decreased potassium (14%), increased lipase (11%), increased ALT (8%), decreased sodium (7%), increased AST (6%), increased triglycerides (4.3%), decreased magnesium (4.2%), decreased CPK (4.1%), increased amylase (2.9%), increased potassium (2.8%), increased cholesterol (2.2%), increased calcium (2.1%) and increased blood bilirubin (2.1%).
- The data described in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS also reflect exposure to single-agent intravenous penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg every 2 weeks until disease progression or a maximum of 24 months in 372 patients in studies: AK105-101 [NCT03352531], AK-105-201 [NCT03722147], AK105-202.
- Among the 372 patients who received single-agent penpulimab-kcqx, 49% were exposed for 6 months or longer and 34% were exposed for at least one year.
- In this safety population, the most common (≥20%) adverse reactions were anemia (25%) and hypothyroidism (23%). The most common Grade 3 to 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥ 2%) were decreased lymphocytes (11%), increased GGT (9%), decreased phosphate (6%), decreased sodium (4.7%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (4.4%), increased alkaline phosphatase (4%), decreased hemoglobin (3.6%), increased bilirubin (2.7%), increased glucose (3%), increased triglycerides (2.8%), increased alanine aminotransferase (2.5%), increased magnesium (3.3%), and decreased platelets (2.5%).
First line Recurrent or Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Study AK105-304
- The safety of penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine was evaluated in Study AK105-304.
- Patients received intravenous placebo or penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg every 3 weeks in combination with 6 cycles of either cisplatin 80 mg/m 2or carboplatin AUC 5 and gemcitabine 1000 mg/m 2every 3 weeks followed by placebo or penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg intravenously every 3 weeks until unacceptable toxicity, disease progression or a maximum of 24 months.
- Among patients who received penpulimab-kcqx, 71% were exposed for 6 months or longer and 38% were exposed for greater than one year.
- The median age of patients who received penpulimab-kcqx was 51 years (23 to 75 years); 82% were male; 97% were Asian, 3.4% were White; 2.1% were Hispanic or Latino, baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score was 0 (36%) or 1 (64%). Of the 146 patients, 69% of patients had received at least one prior systemic therapy and 100% of patients had received prior radiation therapy.
- Serious adverse reactions occurred in 51% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (≥2%) were thrombocytopenia (19%), decreased neutrophils (14%), decreased white blood cells (12%), anemia (8%), myelosuppression (3.4%), decreased sodium (2.7%), pneumonia (2.1%), and nausea (2.1%). Of the patients who received penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, there was one fatal adverse reaction (0.7%) due to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).
- Permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx due to an adverse reaction occurred in 3.4% of patients. Adverse reactions which resulted in permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx were acute myocardial infarction, acute kidney injury, brain edema, diabetic ketoacidosis, increased potassium, increased lipase, and thrombocytopenia (0.7% each).
- Dose interruptions of penpulimab-kcqx due to an adverse reaction occurred in 64% of patients. Adverse reactions which required dose interruption in ≥ 2% of patients included COVID-19 (16%), anemia (16%), thrombocytopenia (14%), decreased white blood cells (14%), decreased neutrophils (10%), pneumonia (10%), increased alanine aminotransferase (3.4%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (2.7%), decreased sodium (2.7%), increased blood creatinine (2.7%), pyrexia (2.1%), and upper respiratory tract infection (2.1%).
Recurrent Metastatic Non-Keratinizing Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Study AK105-202
- The safety of penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent was evaluated in Study AK105-202.
- Eligible patients had metastatic non-keratinizing NPC and had received prior platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other line of therapy or had disease progression within 6 months of completion of platinum-based chemotherapy administered as neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or definitive chemoradiation treatment. Patients received penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg intravenously every 2 weeks until unacceptable toxicity, disease progression, or a maximum of 24 months.
- Among patients who received penpulimab-kcqx, 45% were exposed for 6 months or longer and 30% for exposed for greater than one year.
- The median age of patients who received penpulimab-kcqx was 50 years (20 to 66 years); 76% were male; 100% were Asian, 100% had recurrent disease; baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score was 0 (31%) or 1 (69%). All patients had received at least one prior systemic therapy and prior radiation.
- Serious adverse reactions occurred in 22% of patients. Serious adverse reactions in ≥1% were pneumonia (3.8%), pneumonitis (1.5%), respiratory failure (1.5%), rash (1.5%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1% of patients treated with penpulimab-kcqx, including a case each of pneumonitis, septic shock, colitis, and hepatitis.
- Permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx due to an adverse reaction occurred in 3.8% of patients. Adverse reactions which resulted in permanent discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx in ≥1% were rash, hepatitis, herpes zoster, spinal cord compression and pleural effusion (0.8% each).
- Dose interruptions of penpulimab-kcqx due to an adverse reaction occurred in 25% of patients. Adverse reactions which required dose interruption in ≥ 1% of patients included hepatitis (6.2%), anemia (3.1%), pneumonia (3.1%), hypothyroidism (3.1%), rash (1.5%) and white blood cells decreased (1.5%).
Postmarketing Experience
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab Postmarketing Experience in the drug label.
Drug Interactions
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab Drug Interactions in the drug label.
Use in Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category (FDA): Risk Summary
- Based on its mechanism of action, penpulimab-kcqx can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
- There are no available data on the use of penpulimab-kcqx in pregnant women.
- Animal studies have demonstrated that inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can lead to increased risk of immune-mediated rejection of the developing fetus resulting in fetal death ( see Data). Human immunoglobulin G (IgG) is known to cross the placental barrier; therefore, penpulimab-kcqx has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus.
- In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Data
Animal Data
- Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with penpulimab-kcqx to evaluate its effect on reproduction and fetal development.
- A central function of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway is to preserve pregnancy by maintaining maternal immune tolerance to the fetus.
- In murine models of pregnancy, blockade of PD-L1 signaling has been shown to disrupt tolerance to the fetus and to result in an increase in fetal loss; therefore, potential risks of administering penpulimab-kcqx during pregnancy include increased rates of abortion or stillbirth.
- As reported in the literature, there were no malformations related to the blockade of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling in the offspring of these animals; however, immune-mediated disorders occurred in PD-1 and PD-L1 knockout mice. Based on its mechanism of action, fetal exposure to penpulimab-kcqx may increase the risk of developing immune-mediated disorders or of altering the normal immune response.
Pregnancy Category (AUS):
There is no Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) guidance on usage of Penpulimab in women who are pregnant.
Labor and Delivery
There is no FDA guidance on use of Penpulimab during labor and delivery.
Nursing Mothers
Risk Summary
- There is no information regarding the presence of penpulimab-kcqx in human milk or its effects on the breastfed child, or on milk production.
- Maternal IgG is known to be present in human milk.
- The effects of local gastrointestinal exposure and limited systemic exposure in the breastfed child to penpulimab-kcqx are unknown.
- Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, advise lactating women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of penpulimab-kcqx.
Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of penpulimab-kcqx have not been established in pediatric patients.
Geriatic Use
Penpulimab-kcqx in Combination with Either Cisplatin or Carboplatin and Gemcitabine Of the 146 patients with NPC who received penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, 15 (10%) were 65 years or older and 1 (0.7%) was 75 years or older. Clinical studies did not include a sufficient number of patients aged 65 years or older to determine differences in safety or effectiveness compared to younger patients.
Penpulimab-kcqx as a Single-Agent Of the 372 patients with NPC who received penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent, 69 (19%) were 65 years or older and 7% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between patients age <65 and those ≥ 65 years
Gender
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Penpulimab with respect to specific gender populations.
Race
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Penpulimab with respect to specific racial populations.
Renal Impairment
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Penpulimab in patients with renal impairment.
Hepatic Impairment
There is no FDA guidance on the use of Penpulimab in patients with hepatic impairment.
Females of Reproductive Potential and Males
Penpulimab-kcqx can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
- Pregnancy Testing
Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating penpulimab-kcqx.
- Contraception
Females Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with penpulimab-kcqx and for 4 months after the last dose.
Immunocompromised Patients
There is no FDA guidance one the use of Penpulimab in patients who are immunocompromised.
Administration and Monitoring
Administration
Preparation
- Inspect the solution for particulate matter and discoloration.
- The solution is clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to yellowish. Discard the vial if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles.
- Dilute penpulimab-kcqx injection prior to intravenous administration.
- Withdraw the required volume from two vials of penpulimab-kcqx and transfer into an intravenous (IV) bag containing 100 mL or less of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP.
- Gently invert the bag to mix the diluted solution .Do not shake.
The final concentration of the diluted solution should be between 2 mg/mL to 5 mg/mL.
- Discard any unused portion left in the vial.
- The product does not contain a preservative.
- Administer diluted solution immediately once prepared. If diluted solution is not administered immediately the total time from dilution to the end of the infusion should not exceed 4 hours. Store the diluted solution up to 4 hours either at room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), or refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Discard after 4 hours.
- Do not freeze.
Administration
- Administer diluted solution intravenously over 60 minutes through an intravenous line containing a sterile, non-pyrogenic, low-protein binding 0.2 micron to 0.22 micron in-line or add-on filter.
- Do not co-administer other drugs through the same infusion line.
Monitoring
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab Monitoring in the drug label.
IV Compatibility
There is limited information regarding the compatibility of Penpulimab and IV administrations.
Overdosage
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab overdosage. If you suspect drug poisoning or overdose, please contact the National Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Pharmacology
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab Pharmacology in the drug label.
Mechanism of Action
- Binding of the PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, to the PD-1 receptor found on T cells, inhibits T-cell proliferation and cytokine production.
- Upregulation of PD-1 ligands occurs in some tumors and signaling through this pathway can contribute to inhibition of active T-cell immune surveillance of tumors.
- Penpulimab-kcqx injection is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to PD-1 and blocks its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, releasing PD-1 pathway-mediated inhibition of the immune response, including the anti-tumor immune response. In murine tumor models, blocking PD-1 activity resulted in decreased tumor growth.
Structure
- Penpulimab-kcqx is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD 1)-blocking antibody. * Penpulimab-kcqx is a humanized monoclonal IgG1 antibody with an approximate molecular weight of 150 kDa. Penpulimab-kcqx is produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells.
Pharmacodynamics
- Penpulimab-kcqx exposure-response relationships and the time course of pharmacodynamic response are not fully characterized.
Pharmacokinetics
- Penpulimab-kcqx exposure increased dose proportionally over the dose range of 1 to 10 mg/kg (0.35 to 3.5 times the approved recommended dosage in a 70 kg patient) after the first dose.
- The mean accumulation ratio was 1.5 for maximum concentration (C max) and 2.1 for area under the concentration curve (AUC) following multiple doses of 200 mg every 3 weeks. Steady-state concentrations of penpulimab-kcqx were reached by Week 15, with mean (CV%) steady-state trough and peak concentrations of 30 μg/mL (38%) and 88 μg/mL (21%), respectively.
- Distribution
The mean (CV%) volume of distribution was 10 L (44%).
- Elimination
The mean (CV%) clearance was 0.2 L/day (33%) and the mean (CV%) terminal half-life was 32 days (44%).
- Metabolism
Penpulimab-kcqx is expected to be metabolized into small peptides by catabolic pathways.
- Specific Populations
No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of penpulimab-kcqx were observed based on body weight (32 to 113 kg), age (18 to 91 years), sex, race (White and Asian), serum albumin (22 to 54.5 g/L), baseline LDH (111 to 4,450 IU/L), baseline C-reactive protein (0 to 328 mg/L), baseline ECOG score (0 and 1), immunogenicity status, tumor type (NPC and other tumors), co-administration (with chemotherapy), mild or moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CLcr] ≥ 30 mL/min), mild (total bilirubin ≤ ULN and AST > ULN or total bilirubin > 1 to 1.5 times ULN and any AST) or moderate hepatic impairment (total bilirubin > 1.5 to 3 times ULN and any AST).
The effect of severe hepatic (total bilirubin > 3 times ULN and any AST) or renal impairment (CLcr < 30 mL/min) on the pharmacokinetics of penpulimab-kcqx is unknown.
Immunogenecity
- The observed incidence of anti-drug antibodies is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay.
- Differences in assay methods preclude meaningful comparisons of the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in other studies, including those of penpulimab-kcqx or of other penpulimab products.
- Of the 349 evaluable patients who received penpulimab-kcqx 1, 3, 10 mg/kg every two weeks or 200 mg every two weeks or every three weeks as a single agent, 30% (105/349) of patients tested positive for anti-drug antibodies (ADA) at one or more post-baseline timepoints. Of those who tested positive for ADA, 17% (18/105) had neutralizing antibodies against penpulimab-kcqx.
- Of the 371 evaluable patients who received penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg every 3 weeks in combination with chemotherapy, 24% (88/371) of patients tested positive for ADA at one or more post-baseline timepoints. Of those who tested positive for ADA, 44% (39/88) had neutralizing antibodies against penpulimab-kcqx.
- There are insufficient data to assess whether the observed anti-penpulimab-kcqx antibodies affect the safety or effectiveness of penpulimab-kcqx.
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
- No studies have been performed to assess the potential of penpulimab-kcqx for carcinogenicity or genotoxicity.
- Fertility studies have not been conducted with penpulimab-kcqx. In 6-week and 3-month repeat dose toxicology studies in monkeys, there were no notable effects in the male and female reproductive organs; however, most animals in these studies were not sexually mature.
Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology
- In animal models, inhibition of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling increased the severity of some infections and enhanced inflammatory responses.
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected PD-1 knockout mice exhibit markedly decreased survival compared with wild-type controls, which correlated with increased bacterial proliferation and inflammatory responses in these animals.
- PD-1 blockade using a primate anti-PD-1 antibody was also shown to exacerbate M. tuberculosis infection in rhesus macaques. PD-1 and PD-L1 knockout mice and mice receiving PD-L1 blocking antibody have also shown decreased survival following infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus.
Clinical Studies
First-line Treatment of Recurrent or Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
- The efficacy of penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine was evaluated in Study AK105-304 (NCT04974398), a randomized, double-blind, multi-center trial. The trial included a total of 291 patients with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Eligible patients were required to have recurrent NPC with local-regional recurrence and/or distant metastasis occurring ≥ 6 months after completion of curative intent treatment or to have primary metastatic NPC not suitable for local therapy at the time of diagnosis. Patients with autoimmune disease, other than stable hypothyroidism or Type I diabetes, and patients who required systemic immunosuppression were ineligible.
- Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either:
1. Penpulimab-kcqx in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, every 3 weeks, for up to 6 cycles, followed by single-agent penpulimab-kcqx every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity or a maximum of 24 months. 2. Placebo in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine, every 3 weeks for up to 6 cycles, followed by single-agent placebo every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity or a maximum of 24 months.
- All study medications were administered intravenously.
- Randomization was stratified by stage of disease (primary metastatic vs. recurrent), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status (PS) (0 vs. 1), and liver metastasis (present vs. absent).
- Patients randomized to placebo were eligible to receive open-label single-agent penpulimab-kcqx (200 mg every 3 weeks) after radiographic disease progression confirmed by blinded independent central review (BICR).
- Tumor assessments were performed every 6 weeks for the first 12 months and every 9 weeks thereafter.
- The major efficacy outcome measure was BICR-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) according to RECIST v1.1. The key secondary efficacy outcome measure was overall survival (OS).
- The study population characteristics were: median age of 51 years (range: 23 to 75), 82% male, 98% Asian, 2.1% White; 1.4% Hispanic or Latino; and 36% ECOG PS of 0. At study entry, 80% of patients had metastatic disease. Histological subtypes of NPC included 96% non-keratinizing, 0.7% keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, and 3.4% did not have the subtype identified. In total, 98% received cisplatin and 2.4% received carboplatin.
Add penpulimab graph
Recurrent Metastatic Non-Keratinizing Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
- The efficacy of single-agent penpulimab-kcqx was evaluated in Study AK105-202 (NCT03866967), an open-label, multicenter, single-arm trial conducted in a single country. The trial included a total of 125 patients with unresectable or metastatic non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and who had disease progression after platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other line of therapy.
- Patients with a history of autoimmune disease or a medical condition that required immunosuppression were ineligible.
- Patients received single-agent penpulimab-kcqx 200 mg intravenously every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity or a maximum of 24 months. Tumor assessments were performed every 8 weeks in the first year and every 12 weeks thereafter.
- The major efficacy outcome measures were objective response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DOR) according to RECIST v1.1 as assessed by an Independent Radiology Review Committee (IRRC).
- The median age was 50 years (range: 21 to 66 years); 76% were male; 100% were Asian; none were Hispanic or Latino; and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score (PS) was 0 (31%) or 1 (69%). In total, 10% of patients had tumors with PD-L1 TPS <1%, 50% of patients had tumors with PD-L1 TPS 1-49%, 37% of patients had tumors with PD-L1 TPS ≥50%, and 2.4% of patients had tumors with missing PD-L1 expression levels. Sixty-three percent of patients had received 2 prior lines of chemotherapy, and 37% of patients had received 3 or more prior lines of chemotherapy. Ninety-two percent of patients had received prior radiotherapy
How Supplied
Penpulimab-kcqx injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to yellowish solution supplied as:
- Carton containing one 100 mg/10 mL (10 mg/mL) single-dose vial NDC 83654-105-01
Storage
- Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light.
- Do not shake. Do not freeze.
Images
Drug Images
{{#ask: Page Name::Penpulimab |?Pill Name |?Drug Name |?Pill Ingred |?Pill Imprint |?Pill Dosage |?Pill Color |?Pill Shape |?Pill Size (mm) |?Pill Scoring |?NDC |?Drug Author |format=template |template=DrugPageImages |mainlabel=- |sort=Pill Name }}
Package and Label Display Panel
{{#ask: Label Page::Penpulimab |?Label Name |format=template |template=DrugLabelImages |mainlabel=- |sort=Label Page }}
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions
- Inform patients of the risk of immune-mediated adverse reactions that may be severe or fatal, may occur after discontinuation of treatment, and may require corticosteroid treatment and interruption or discontinuation of penpulimab-kcqx. These reactions may include:
- Pneumonitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for new or worsening cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
- Colitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for diarrhea or severe abdominal pain.
- Hepatitis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for jaundice, severe nausea or vomiting, or easy bruising or bleeding.
- Endocrinopathies: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, hypophysitis, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Nephritis: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of nephritis including decreased urine output, blood in urine, swelling in ankles, loss of appetite, and any other symptoms of renal dysfunction.
- Severe skin reactions: Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for any signs or symptoms of severe skin reactions, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, including rash or any other severe skin discomfort.
- Other immune-mediated adverse reactions:
o Advise patients that immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur and may involve any organ system, and to contact their healthcare provider immediately for any new or worsening signs or symptoms.
o Advise patients of the risk of solid organ transplant rejection and other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of organ transplant rejection and other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection.
Infusion-Related Reactions
Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of infusion-related reactions.
Complications of Allogeneic HSCT
Advise patients of the risk of post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation complications.
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
- Advise females of reproductive potential that penpulimab-kcqx can cause harm to a fetus and to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy.
- Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of penpulimab-kcqx
Lactation
Advise female patients not to breastfeed while taking penpulimab-kcqx and for 4 months after the last dose.
Precautions with Alcohol
Alcohol-Penpulimab interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.
Brand Names
PENPULIMAB-KCQX
Look-Alike Drug Names
There is limited information regarding Penpulimab Look-Alike Drug Names in the drug label.
Price
References
The contents of this FDA label are provided by the National Library of Medicine.