MedPath

EPZICOM

These highlights do not include all the information needed to use EPZICOM safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for EPZICOM.EPZICOM (abacavir and lamivudine tablets), for oral useInitial U.S. Approval: 2004

Approved
Approval ID

f1139e7f-2db9-4961-9da3-9b7f2088736f

Product Type

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Effective Date

Dec 14, 2022

Manufacturers
FDA

ViiV Healthcare Company

DUNS: 027295585

Products 1

Detailed information about drug products covered under this FDA approval, including NDC codes, dosage forms, ingredients, and administration routes.

abacavir sulfate and lamivudine

PRODUCT DETAILS

NDC Product Code49702-206
Application NumberNDA021652
Marketing CategoryC73594
Route of AdministrationORAL
Effective DateApril 27, 2018
Generic Nameabacavir sulfate and lamivudine

INGREDIENTS (10)

ABACAVIR SULFATEActive
Quantity: 600 mg in 1 1
Code: J220T4J9Q2
Classification: ACTIM
LAMIVUDINEActive
Quantity: 300 mg in 1 1
Code: 2T8Q726O95
Classification: ACTIB
MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSEInactive
Code: OP1R32D61U
Classification: IACT
MAGNESIUM STEARATEInactive
Code: 70097M6I30
Classification: IACT
SODIUM STARCH GLYCOLATE TYPE A POTATOInactive
Code: 5856J3G2A2
Classification: IACT
FD&C YELLOW NO. 6Inactive
Code: H77VEI93A8
Classification: IACT
HYPROMELLOSE, UNSPECIFIEDInactive
Code: 3NXW29V3WO
Classification: IACT
POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 400Inactive
Code: B697894SGQ
Classification: IACT
POLYSORBATE 80Inactive
Code: 6OZP39ZG8H
Classification: IACT
TITANIUM DIOXIDEInactive
Code: 15FIX9V2JP
Classification: IACT

Drug Labeling Information

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 43685-7Updated: 12/14/2022

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Serious and sometimes fatal hypersensitivity reactions have occurred with abacavir, a component of EPZICOM. These hypersensitivity reactions have included multi-organ failure and anaphylaxis and typically occurred within the first 6 weeks of treatment with abacavir (median time to onset was 9 days); although abacavir hypersensitivity reactions have occurred any time during treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Patients who carry the HLA‑B5701 allele are at a higher risk of abacavir hypersensitivity reactions; although, patients who do not carry the HLA‑B5701 allele have developed hypersensitivity reactions. Hypersensitivity to abacavir was reported in approximately 206 (8%) of 2,670 patients in 9 clinical trials with abacavir- containing products where HLA‑B5701 screening was not performed. The incidence of suspected abacavir hypersensitivity reactions in clinical trials was 1% when subjects carrying the HLA‑B5701 allele were excluded. In any patient treated with abacavir, the clinical diagnosis of hypersensitivity reaction must remain the basis of clinical decision making.

Due to the potential for severe, serious, and possibly fatal hypersensitivity reactions with abacavir:

All patients should be screened for the HLA‑B*5701 allele prior to initiating therapy with EPZICOM or reinitiation of therapy with EPZICOM, unless patients have a previously documented HLA‑B*5701 allele assessment.

EPZICOM is contraindicated in patients with a prior hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir and in HLA‑B*5701-positive patients.

Before starting EPZICOM, review medical history for prior exposure to any abacavir-containing product. NEVER restart EPZICOM or any other abacavir‑containing product following a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir, regardless of HLA‑B*5701 status.

To reduce the risk of a life‑threatening hypersensitivity reaction, regardless of HLA‑B*5701 status, discontinue EPZICOM immediately if a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, even when other diagnoses are possible (e.g., acute onset respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, bronchitis, pharyngitis, or influenza; gastroenteritis; or reactions to other medications).

If a hypersensitivity reaction cannot be ruled out, do not restart EPZICOM or any other abacavir‑containing products because more severe symptoms, which may include life‑threatening hypotension and death, can occur within hours.

If a hypersensitivity reaction is ruled out, patients may restart EPZICOM. Rarely, patients who have stopped abacavir for reasons other than symptoms of hypersensitivity have also experienced life-threatening reactions within hours of reinitiating abacavir therapy. Therefore, reintroduction of EPZICOM or any other abacavir-containing product is recommended only if medical care can be readily accessed.

A Medication Guide and Warning Card that provide information about recognition of hypersensitivity reactions should be dispensed with each new prescription and refill.

5.2 Patients with Hepatitis B Virus Co-infection

Posttreatment Exacerbations of Hepatitis

Clinical and laboratory evidence of exacerbations of hepatitis have occurred after discontinuation of lamivudine. See full prescribing information for EPIVIR (lamivudine). Patients should be closely monitored with both clinical and laboratory follow‑up for at least several months after stopping treatment.

Emergence of Lamivudine‑Resistant Hepatitis B Virus

Safety and efficacy of lamivudine have not been established for treatment of chronic hepatitis B in subjects dually infected with HIV‑1 and hepatitis B virus (HBV). Emergence of hepatitis B virus variants associated with resistance to lamivudine has been reported in HIV‑1‑infected subjects who have received lamivudine‑containing antiretroviral regimens in the presence of concurrent infection with hepatitis B virus. See full prescribing information for EPIVIR (lamivudine).

5.3 Lactic Acidosis and Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis

Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues, including abacavir and lamivudine (components of EPZICOM). A majority of these cases have been in women. Female sex and obesity may be risk factors for the development of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis in patients treated with antiretroviral nucleoside analogues. See full prescribing information for ZIAGEN (abacavir) and EPIVIR (lamivudine). Treatment with EPZICOM should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity, which may include hepatomegaly and steatosis even in the absence of marked transaminase elevations.

5.4 Immune Reconstitution Syndrome

Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy, including EPZICOM. During the initial phase of combination antiretroviral treatment, patients whose immune systems respond may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (such as Mycobacterium avium infection, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia [PCP], or tuberculosis), which may necessitate further evaluation and treatment.

Autoimmune disorders (such as Graves’ disease, polymyositis, and Guillain- Barré syndrome) have also been reported to occur in the setting of immune reconstitution; however, the time to onset is more variable, and can occur many months after initiation of treatment.

5.5 Myocardial Infarction

Several prospective, observational, epidemiological studies have reported an association with the use of abacavir and the risk of myocardial infarction (MI). Meta-analyses of randomized, controlled clinical trials have observed no excess risk of MI in abacavir‑treated subjects as compared with control subjects. To date, there is no established biological mechanism to explain the potential increase in risk. In totality, the available data from the observational studies and from controlled clinical trials show inconsistency; therefore, evidence for a causal relationship between abacavir treatment and the risk of MI is inconclusive.

As a precaution, the underlying risk of coronary heart disease should be considered when prescribing antiretroviral therapies, including abacavir, and action taken to minimize all modifiable risk factors (e.g., hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, smoking).

Key Highlight

Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues. (5.3)

Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy. (5.4)

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34073-7Updated: 2/17/2021

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

7.1 Methadone

In a trial of 11 HIV‑1‑infected subjects receiving methadone‑maintenance therapy with 600 mg of ZIAGEN twice daily (twice the currently recommended dose), oral methadone clearance increased [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. This alteration will not result in a methadone dose modification in the majority of patients; however, an increased methadone dose may be required in a small number of patients.

7.2 Sorbitol

Coadministration of single doses of lamivudine and sorbitol resulted in a sorbitol dose-dependent reduction in lamivudine exposures. When possible, avoid use of sorbitol-containing medicines with lamivudine-containing medicines [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.3 Riociguat

Coadministration with fixed-dose abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine resulted in increased riociguat exposure, which may increase the risk of riociguat adverse reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The riociguat dose may need to be reduced. See full prescribing information for ADEMPAS (riociguat).

Key Highlight

Methadone: An increased methadone dose may be required in a small number of patients. (7.1)

Sorbitol: Coadministration of lamivudine and sorbitol may decrease lamivudine concentrations; when possible, avoid chronic coadministration. (7.2)

Riociguat: The riociguat dose may need to be reduced. (7.3)

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION

LOINC: 34068-7Updated: 12/14/2022

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Screening for HLA-B*5701 Allele prior to Starting EPZICOM

Screen for the HLA‑B*5701 allele prior to initiating therapy with EPZICOM [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

2.2 Recommended Dosage for Adult Patients

The recommended dosage of EPZICOM for adults is one tablet taken orally once daily, in combination with other antiretroviral agents, with or without food.

2.3 Recommended Dosage for Pediatric Patients

The recommended oral dose of EPZICOM for pediatric patients weighing at least 25 kg is one tablet daily in combination with other antiretroviral agents [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Before prescribing EPZICOM tablets, pediatric patients should be assessed for the ability to swallow tablets.

2.4 Not Recommended Due to Lack of Dosage Adjustment

Because EPZICOM is a fixed‑dose tablet and cannot be dose adjusted, EPZICOM is not recommended for:

patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL per minute [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

patients with mild hepatic impairment. EPZICOM is contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment [see Contraindications (4), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Use of EPIVIR (lamivudine) oral solution or tablets and ZIAGEN (abacavir) oral solution may be considered.

Key Highlight

Before initiating EPZICOM, screen for the HLA‑B*5701 allele because EPZICOM contains abacavir. (2.1)

Adults: One tablet orally once daily. (2.2)

Pediatric patients weighing at least 25 kg: One tablet daily. (2.3)

Because EPZICOM is a fixed-dose tablet and cannot be dose adjusted, EPZICOM is not recommended in patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL per minute or patients with hepatic impairment. (2.4, 4)

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION

LOINC: 43684-0Updated: 12/14/2022

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to EPZICOM during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263.

Risk Summary

Available data from the APR show no difference in the overall risk of birth defects for abacavir or lamivudine compared with the background rate for birth defects of 2.7% in the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) reference population (see Data). The APR uses the MACDP as the U.S. reference population for birth defects in the general population. The MACDP evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at less than 20 weeks’ gestation. The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR. The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15% to 20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown.

In animal reproduction studies, oral administration of abacavir to pregnant rats during organogenesis resulted in fetal malformations and other embryonic and fetal toxicities at exposures 35 times the human exposure (AUC) at the recommended clinical daily dose. However, no adverse developmental effects were observed following oral administration of abacavir to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis, at exposures approximately 9 times the human exposure (AUC) at the recommended clinical dose. Oral administration of lamivudine to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis resulted in embryolethality at systemic exposure (AUC) similar to the recommended clinical dose; however, no adverse development effects were observed with oral administration of lamivudine to pregnant rats during organogenesis at plasma concentrations (Cmax) 35 times the recommended clinical dose (see Data).

Data

Human Data: Abacavir: Based on prospective reports to the APR of exposures to abacavir during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 1,300 exposed in the first trimester and over 1,300 exposed in the second/third trimester), there was no difference between the overall risk of birth defects for abacavir compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the MACDP. The prevalence of defects in live births was 3.2% (95% CI: 2.3% to 4.3%) following first trimester exposure to abacavir-containing regimens and 2.9% (95% CI: 2.1% to 4.0%) following second/third trimester exposure to abacavir-containing regimens.

Abacavir has been shown to cross the placenta and concentrations in neonatal plasma at birth were essentially equal to those in maternal plasma at delivery [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Lamivudine: Based on prospective reports to the APR of exposures to lamivudine during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 5,300 exposed in the first trimester and over 7,400 exposed in the second/third trimester), there was no difference between the overall risk of birth defects for lamivudine compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the MACDP. The prevalence of birth defects in live births was 3.1% (95% CI: 2.7% to 3.6%) following first trimester exposure to lamivudine- containing regimens and 2.9% (95% CI: 2.5%, 3.3%) following second/third trimester exposure to lamivudine-containing regimens.

Lamivudine pharmacokinetics were studied in pregnant women during 2 clinical trials conducted in South Africa. The trials assessed pharmacokinetics in 16 women at 36 weeks’ gestation using 150 mg lamivudine twice daily with zidovudine, 10 women at 38 weeks’ gestation using 150 mg lamivudine twice daily with zidovudine, and 10 women at 38 weeks’ gestation using lamivudine 300 mg twice daily without other antiretrovirals. These trials were not designed or powered to provide efficacy information. Lamivudine concentrations were generally similar in maternal, neonatal, and umbilical cord serum samples. In a subset of subjects, amniotic fluid specimens were collected following natural rupture of membranes and confirmed that lamivudine crosses the placenta in humans. Based on limited data at delivery, median (range) amniotic fluid concentrations of lamivudine were 3.9 (1.2 to 12.8)–fold greater compared with paired maternal serum concentration (n = 8).

Animal Data: Abacavir: Abacavir was administered orally to pregnant rats (at 100, 300, and 1,000 mg per kg per day) and rabbits (at 125, 350, or 700 mg per kg per day) during organogenesis (on Gestation Days 6 through 17 and 6 through 20, respectively). Fetal malformations (increased incidences of fetal anasarca and skeletal malformations) or developmental toxicity (decreased fetal body weight and crown‑rump length) were observed in rats at doses up to 1,000 mg per kg per day, resulting in exposures approximately 35 times the human exposure (AUC) at the recommended daily dose. No developmental effects were observed in rats at 100 mg per kg per day, resulting in exposures (AUC) 3.5 times the human exposure at the recommended daily dose. In a fertility and early embryo-fetal development study conducted in rats (at 60, 160, or 500 mg per kg per day), embryonic and fetal toxicities (increased resorptions, decreased fetal body weights) or toxicities to the offspring (increased incidence of stillbirth and lower body weights) occurred at doses up to 500 mg per kg per day. No developmental effects were observed in rats at 60 mg per kg per day, resulting in exposures (AUC) approximately 4 times the human exposure at the recommended daily dose. Studies in pregnant rats showed that abacavir is transferred to the fetus through the placenta. In pregnant rabbits, no developmental toxicities and no increases in fetal malformations occurred at up to the highest dose evaluated, resulting in exposures (AUC) approximately 9 times the human exposure at the recommended dose.

Lamivudine: Lamivudine was administered orally to pregnant rats (at 90, 600, and 4,000 mg per kg per day) and rabbits (at 90, 300 and 1,000 mg per kg per day and at 15, 40, and 90 mg per kg per day) during organogenesis (on Gestation Days 7 through 16 [rat] and 8 through 20 [rabbit]). No evidence of fetal malformations due to lamivudine was observed in rats and rabbits at doses producing plasma concentrations (Cmax) approximately 35 times higher than human exposure at the recommended daily dose. Evidence of early embryolethality was seen in the rabbit at systemic exposures (AUC) similar to those observed in humans, but there was no indication of this effect in the rat at plasma concentrations (Cmax) 35 times higher than human exposure at the recommended daily dose. Studies in pregnant rats showed that lamivudine is transferred to the fetus through the placenta. In the fertility/pre- and postnatal development study in rats, lamivudine was administered orally at doses of 180, 900, and 4,000 mg per kg per day from prior to mating through postnatal Day 20). In the study, development of the offspring, including fertility and reproductive performance, were not affected by the maternal administration of lamivudine.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that HIV‑1‑infected mothers in the United States not breastfeed their infants to avoid risking postnatal transmission of HIV‑1 infection. Abacavir and lamivudine are present in human milk. There is no information on the effects of abacavir and lamivudine on the breastfed infant or the effects of the drug on milk production. Because of the potential for (1) HIV‑1 transmission (in HIV- negative infants), (2) developing viral resistance (in HIV-positive infants), and (3) adverse reactions in a breastfed infant similar to those seen in adults, instruct mothers not to breastfeed if they are receiving EPZICOM.

8.4 Pediatric Use

The dosing recommendations in this population are based on the safety and efficacy established in a controlled trial conducted using either the combination of EPIVIR and ZIAGEN or EPZICOM [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Adverse Reactions (6.2), Clinical Studies (14.2)].

In pediatric patients weighing less than 25 kg, use of abacavir and lamivudine as single products is recommended to achieve appropriate dosing.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical trials of abacavir and lamivudine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, caution should be exercised in the administration of EPZICOM in elderly patients reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.6, 8.7)].

8.6 Patients with Impaired Renal Function

EPZICOM is not recommended for patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL per min because EPZICOM is a fixed-dose combination and the dosage of the individual components cannot be adjusted. If a dose reduction of lamivudine, a component of EPZICOM, is required for patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL per min, then the individual components should be used [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Patients with a creatinine clearance between 30 and 49 mL per min receiving EPZICOM may experience a 1.6- to 3.3-fold higher lamivudine exposure (AUC) than patients with a creatinine clearance ≥50 mL per min. There are no safety data from randomized, controlled trials comparing EPZICOM to the individual components in patients with a creatinine clearance between 30 and 49 mL per min who received dose-adjusted lamivudine. In the original lamivudine registrational trials in combination with zidovudine, higher lamivudine exposures were associated with higher rates of hematologic toxicities (neutropenia and anemia), although discontinuations due to neutropenia or anemia each occurred in <1% of subjects. Patients with a sustained creatinine clearance between 30 and 49 mL per min who receive EPZICOM should be monitored for hematologic toxicities. If new or worsening neutropenia or anemia develop, dose adjustment of lamivudine, per lamivudine prescribing information, is recommended. If lamivudine dose adjustment is indicated, EPZICOM should be discontinued and the individual components should be used to construct the treatment regimen.

8.7 Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function

EPZICOM is a fixed-dose combination and the dosage of the individual components cannot be adjusted. If a dose reduction of abacavir, a component of EPZICOM, is required for patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A), then the individual components should be used [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

The safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic properties of abacavir have not been established in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) or severe (Child- Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment; therefore, EPZICOM is contraindicated in these patients [see Contraindications (4)].

Key Highlight

Lactation: Women infected with HIV should be instructed not to breastfeed due to potential for HIV transmission. (8.2)

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION

LOINC: 43680-8Updated: 3/20/2017

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenicity

Abacavir: Abacavir was administered orally at 3 dosage levels to separate groups of mice and rats in 2-year carcinogenicity studies. Results showed an increase in the incidence of malignant and non-malignant tumors. Malignant tumors occurred in the preputial gland of males and the clitoral gland of females of both species, and in the liver of female rats. In addition, non- malignant tumors also occurred in the liver and thyroid gland of female rats. These observations were made at systemic exposures in the range of 6 to 32 times the human exposure at the recommended dose of 600 mg.

Lamivudine: Long‑term carcinogenicity studies with lamivudine in mice and rats showed no evidence of carcinogenic potential at exposures up to 10 times (mice) and 58 times (rats) the human exposures at the recommended dose of 300 mg.

Mutagenicity

Abacavir: Abacavir induced chromosomal aberrations both in the presence and absence of metabolic activation in an in vitro cytogenetic study in human lymphocytes. Abacavir was mutagenic in the absence of metabolic activation, although it was not mutagenic in the presence of metabolic activation in an L5178Y mouse lymphoma assay. Abacavir was clastogenic in males and not clastogenic in females in an in vivo mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay. Abacavir was not mutagenic in bacterial mutagenicity assays in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.

Lamivudine: Lamivudine was mutagenic in an L5178Y mouse lymphoma assay and clastogenic in a cytogenetic assay using cultured human lymphocytes. Lamivudine was not mutagenic in a microbial mutagenicity assay, in an in vitro cell transformation assay, in a rat micronucleus test, in a rat bone marrow cytogenetic assay, and in an assay for unscheduled DNA synthesis in rat liver.

Impairment of Fertility

Abacavir: Abacavir did not affect male or female fertility in rats at a dose associated with exposures (AUC) approximately 3.3 times (male) or 4.1 times (female) those in humans at the clinically recommended dose.

Lamivudine: Lamivudine did not affect male or female fertility in rats at doses up to 4,000 mg per kg per day, associated with concentrations approximately 42 times (male) or 63 times (female) higher than the concentrations (Cmax) in humans at the dose of 300 mg.

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Myocardial degeneration was found in mice and rats following administration of abacavir for 2 years. The systemic exposures were equivalent to 7 to 24 times the expected systemic exposure in humans at a dose of 600 mg. The clinical relevance of this finding has not been determined.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION

LOINC: 34076-0Updated: 12/14/2022

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Inform patients:

that a Medication Guide and Warning Card summarizing the symptoms of the abacavir hypersensitivity reaction and other product information will be dispensed by the pharmacist with each new prescription and refill of EPZICOM and instruct the patient to read the Medication Guide and Warning Card every time to obtain any new information that may be present about EPZICOM. The complete text of the Medication Guide is reprinted at the end of this document.

to carry the Warning Card with them.

how to identify a hypersensitivity reaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Medication Guide].

that if they develop symptoms consistent with a hypersensitivity reaction they should call their healthcare provider right away to determine if they should stop taking EPZICOM.

that a hypersensitivity reaction can worsen and lead to hospitalization or death if EPZICOM is not immediately discontinued.

to not restart EPZICOM or any other abacavir-containing product following a hypersensitivity reaction because more severe symptoms can occur within hours and may include life-threatening hypotension and death.

that if they have a hypersensitivity reaction, they should dispose of any unused EPZICOM to avoid restarting abacavir.

that a hypersensitivity reaction is usually reversible if it is detected promptly and EPZICOM is stopped right away.

that if they have interrupted EPZICOM for reasons other than symptoms of hypersensitivity (for example, those who have an interruption in drug supply), a serious or fatal hypersensitivity reaction may occur with reintroduction of abacavir.

to not restart EPZICOM or any other abacavir‑containing product without medical consultation and only if medical care can be readily accessed by the patient or others.

Patients with Hepatitis B or C Co-infection

Advise patients co-infected with HIV‑1 and HBV that worsening of liver disease has occurred in some cases when treatment with lamivudine was discontinued. Advise patients to discuss any changes in regimen with their physician [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Lactic Acidosis/Hepatomegaly with Steatosis

Advise patients that lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis have been reported with use of nucleoside analogues and other antiretrovirals. Advise patients to stop taking EPZICOM if they develop clinical symptoms suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Immune Reconstitution Syndrome

Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider immediately of any signs and symptoms of infection as inflammation from previous infection may occur soon after combination antiretroviral therapy, including when EPZICOM is started [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Pregnancy Registry

Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to EPZICOM during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Lactation

Instruct women with HIV-1 infection not to breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in the breast milk [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

Missed Dose

Instruct patients that if they miss a dose of EPZICOM, to take it as soon as they remember. Advise patients not to double their next dose or take more than the prescribed dose [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

Availability of Medication Guide

Instruct patients to read the Medication Guide before starting EPZICOM and to re-read it each time the prescription is renewed. Instruct patients to inform their physician or pharmacist if they develop any unusual symptom, or if any known symptom persists or worsens.

EPIVIR, EPZICOM, TRIZIVIR, and ZIAGEN are trademarks owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

The other brands listed are trademarks owned by or licensed to their respective owners and are not owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. The makers of these brands are not affiliated with and do not endorse the ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its products.

Manufactured for:

ViiV Healthcare

Durham, NC 27701

©2022 ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its licensor.

EPZ:18PI

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION

LOINC: 42231-1Updated: 12/14/2022

MEDICATION GUIDE

EPZICOM (ep' zih com)

(abacavir and lamivudine tablets)

What is the most important information I should know about EPZICOM?

EPZICOM can cause serious side effects, including:

**Serious allergic reactions (hypersensitivity reaction)** that can cause death have happened with EPZICOM and other abacavir-containing products. Your risk of this allergic reaction is much higher if you have a gene variation called HLA‑B*5701. Your healthcare provider can determine with a blood test if you have this gene variation.
**If you get a symptom from 2 or more of the following groups while taking EPZICOM, call your healthcare provider right away to find out if you should stop taking EPZICOM.**   

Symptom(s)

** Group 1**

Fever

** Group 2**

Rash

** Group 3**

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal (stomach area) pain

** Group 4**

Generally ill feeling, extreme tiredness, or achiness

** Group 5**

Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat

A list of these symptoms is on the Warning Card your pharmacist gives you.**Carry this Warning Card with you at all times.**
**If you stop EPZICOM because of an allergic reaction, never take EPZICOM (abacavir and lamivudine) or any other abacavir**‑**containing medicine (TRIUMEQ, TRIZIVIR, or ZIAGEN) again.**

If you have an allergic reaction, dispose of any unused EPZICOM. Ask your pharmacist how to properly dispose of medicines.

If you take EPZICOM or any other abacavir‑containing medicine again after you have had an allergic reaction,**within hours** you may get**life**‑**threatening symptoms** that may include**very low blood pressure or death**.

If you stop EPZICOM for any other reason, even for a few days, and you are not allergic to EPZICOM, talk with your healthcare provider before taking it again. Taking EPZICOM again can cause a serious allergic or life‑threatening reaction, even if you never had an allergic reaction to it before.

If your healthcare provider tells you that you can take EPZICOM again, start taking it when you are around medical help or people who can call a healthcare provider if you need one.

**Worsening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.** If you have HBV infection and take EPZICOM, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking EPZICOM. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. 

Do not run out of EPZICOM. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your EPZICOM is all gone.

Do not stop EPZICOM without first talking to your healthcare provider.

If you stop taking EPZICOM, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver function and monitor your HBV infection. It may be necessary to give you a medicine to treat HBV. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking EPZICOM.

**Resistant HBV.**If you have human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) and HBV, the HBV can change (mutate) during your treatment with EPZICOM and become harder to treat (resistant).

**For more information about side effects, see “What are the possible side effects of EPZICOM?”**

What is EPZICOM?

EPZICOM is a prescription medicine used with other HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 infection.

HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

EPZICOM contains the prescription medicines abacavir and lamivudine.

EPZICOM should not be used in children weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg).

Do not take EPZICOM if you:

have a certain type of gene variation called the HLA-B*5701 allele. Your healthcare provider will test you for this before prescribing treatment with EPZICOM.

are allergic to abacavir, lamivudine, or any of the ingredients in EPZICOM. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in EPZICOM.

have certain liver problems.

Before you take EPZICOM tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

have been tested and know whether or not you have a particular gene variation called HLA‑B*5701.

have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection.

have kidney problems.

have heart problems, smoke, or have diseases that increase your risk of heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
**Pregnancy Registry.** There is a pregnancy registry for women who take HIV-1 medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.**Do not breastfeed if you take EPZICOM.**

You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

**Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take,**including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines interact with EPZICOM.Keep a list of your medicines to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with EPZICOM. 

**Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider.** Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take EPZICOM with other medicines.

How should I take EPZICOM?

**Take EPZICOM exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.**

Do not change your dose or stop taking EPZICOM without talking with your healthcare provider. 

If you miss a dose of EPZICOM, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or take more than your healthcare provider tells you to take.

Stay under the care of a healthcare provider during treatment with EPZICOM.

EPZICOM may be taken with or without food.

Tell your healthcare provider if your child has trouble swallowing EPZICOM tablets.

Do not run out of EPZICOM. The virus in your blood may increase and the virus may become harder to treat. When your supply starts to run low, get more from your healthcare provider or pharmacy. 

If you take too much EPZICOM, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

What are the possible side effects of EPZICOM?

**EPZICOM can cause serious side effects including:**

**See “What is the most important information I should know about EPZICOM?”**

**Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis).**Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can cause death.** Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis:**

feel very weak or tired

unusual (not normal) muscle pain

trouble breathing

stomach pain with nausea and vomiting

feel cold, especially in your arms and legs

feel dizzy or light-headed

have a fast or irregular heartbeat

**Severe liver problems.** In some cases, severe liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly), and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis).** Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems:**

your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice)

dark or “tea-colored” urine

light-colored stools (bowel movements)

loss of appetite for several days or longer

nausea

pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area

You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female or very overweight (obese).

**Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome)** can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking EPZICOM.

**Heart attack.** Some HIV-1 medicines including EPZICOM may increase your risk of heart attack.

The most common side effects of EPZICOM include:

allergic reactions

trouble sleeping

depression

headache or migraine

tiredness or weakness

dizziness

nausea

diarrhea

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of EPZICOM. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1‑800‑FDA‑1088.

How should I store EPZICOM?

Store EPZICOM at room temperature.

Keep EPZICOM and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General information for safe and effective use of EPZICOM.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use EPZICOM for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give EPZICOM to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the information about EPZICOM that is written for health professionals.

What are the ingredients in EPZICOM?

Active ingredients: abacavir and lamivudine

Inactive ingredients: magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate.

Tablet film coating contains: OPADRY orange YS-1-13065-A made of FD&C Yellow No. 6, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol 400, polysorbate 80, and titanium dioxide.

 Manufactured for:
 ViiV Healthcare
 Durham, NC 27701

EPZICOM, TRIUMEQ, TRIZIVIR, and ZIAGEN are trademarks owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

The other brands listed are trademarks owned by or licensed to their respective owners and are not owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. The makers of these brands are not affiliated with and do not endorse the ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its products.

©2022 ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its licensor.

EPZ:16MG

For more information call 1-877-844-8872.

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Revised: 12/2022

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EPZICOM - FDA Approval | MedPath