PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

PACKAGING LABELING - PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

Container Label

NDC 10019-646-24

Suprane

(desflurane, USP)
Liquid for Inhalation
240 mL

Rx only

Amerinet Choice logo

Manufactured for
Baxter Healthcare Corporation
Deerfield, IL 60015
and Amerinet Choice
2060 Craigshire Road
St. Louis, MO 63146

(±) 1,2,2,2 - tetrafluoroethyl
difluoromethyl ether
A nonflammable, nonexplosive
inhalation anesthetic

Store at room temperature 15°-30°C
(59°-86°F).

Replace cap after each use.

**IMPORTANT:**See package insert for
dosage and directions for use.
For Product Inquiry 1 800 ANA DRUG
(1-800-262-3784)

460-664-01

N 3 10019 64624 4

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RECENT MAJOR CHANGES SECTION

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES

Contraindications (4) 11/2022

Warnings and Precautions; Malignant Hyperthermia (5.1) 11/2022

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DESCRIPTION SECTION

11 DESCRIPTION

SUPRANE (desflurane, USP), a nonflammable liquid administered via vaporizer, is a general inhalation anesthetic. It is (±)1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether:

Some physical constants are:

Partition coefficients at 37°C:

Mean Component/Gas Partition Coefficients:

SUPRANE is nonflammable as defined by the requirements of International Electrotechnical Commission 601-2-13.

SUPRANE is a colorless, volatile liquid below 22.8°C. Data indicate that SUPRANE is stable when stored under normal room lighting conditions according to instructions.

SUPRANE is chemically stable. The only known degradation reaction is through prolonged direct contact with soda lime producing low levels of fluoroform (CHF3). The amount of CHF3 obtained is similar to that produced with MAC- equivalent doses of isoflurane. No discernible degradation occurs in the presence of strong acids.

SUPRANE does not corrode stainless steel, brass, aluminum, anodized aluminum, nickel plated brass, copper, or beryllium.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Changes in the clinical effects of SUPRANE rapidly follow changes in the inspired concentration. The duration of anesthesia and selected recovery measures for SUPRANE are given in the following tables:

In 178 female outpatients undergoing laparoscopy, premedicated with fentanyl (1.5-2.0 µg/kg), anesthesia was initiated with propofol 2.5 mg/kg, desflurane/N2O 60% in O2 or desflurane/O2 alone. Anesthesia was maintained with either propofol 1.5-9.0 mg/kg/hr, desflurane 2.6-8.4% in N2O 60% in O2, or desflurane 3.1-8.9% in O2.

In 88 unpremedicated outpatients, anesthesia was initiated with thiopental 3-9 mg/kg or desflurane in O2. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane 0.7-1.4% in N2O 60%, desflurane 1.8-7.7% in N2O 60%, or desflurane 4.4-11.9% in O2.

Recovery from anesthesia was assessed at 30, 60, and 90 minutes following 0.5 MAC desflurane (3%) or isoflurane (0.6%) in N2O 60% using subjective and objective tests. At 30 minutes after anesthesia, only 43% of patients in the isoflurane group were able to perform the psychometric tests compared to 76% in the SUPRANE group (p < 0.05).

SUPRANE was studied in twelve volunteers receiving no other drugs. Hemodynamic effects during controlled ventilation (PaCO2 38 mm Hg) were:

When the same volunteers breathed spontaneously during desflurane anesthesia, systemic vascular resistance and mean arterial blood pressure decreased; cardiac index, heart rate, stroke volume, and central venous pressure (CVP) increased compared to values when the volunteers were conscious. Cardiac index, stroke volume, and CVP were greater during spontaneous ventilation than during controlled ventilation.

During spontaneous ventilation in the same volunteers, increasing the concentration of SUPRANE from 3% to 12% decreased tidal volume and increased arterial carbon dioxide tension and respiratory rate. The combination of N2O 60% with a given concentration of desflurane gave results similar to those with desflurane alone. Respiratory depression produced by desflurane is similar to that produced by other potent inhalation agents.

The use of desflurane concentrations higher than 1.5 MAC may produce apnea.

Figure 1. PaCO2 During Spontaneous Ventilation in Unstimulated Volunteers

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Due to the volatile nature of desflurane in plasma samples, the washin-washout profile of desflurane was used as a surrogate of plasma pharmacokinetics. SUPRANE is a volatile liquid inhalation anesthetic minimally biotransformed in the liver in humans. Less than 0.02% of the desflurane absorbed can be recovered as urinary metabolites (compared to 0.2% for isoflurane). Eight healthy male volunteers first breathed 70% N2O/30% O2 for 30 minutes and then a mixture of desflurane 2.0%, isoflurane 0.4%, and halothane 0.2% for another 30 minutes. During this time, inspired and end-tidal concentrations (FI and FA) were measured. The FA/FI (washin) value at 30 minutes for desflurane was 0.91, compared to 1.00 for N2O, 0.74 for isoflurane, and 0.58 for halothane (see Figure 2). The washin rates for halothane and isoflurane were similar to literature values. The washin was faster for desflurane than for isoflurane and halothane at all time points. The FA/FAO (washout) value at 5 minutes was 0.12 for desflurane, 0.22 for isoflurane, and 0.25 for halothane (see Figure 3). The washout for desflurane was more rapid than that for isoflurane and halothane at all elimination time points. By 5 days, the FA/FAO for desflurane is 1/20th of that for halothane or isoflurane.

Figure 2. Desflurane Washin

Figure 3. Desflurane Washout

12.5 Pharmacogenomics

RYR1 and CACNA1S are polymorphic genes and multiple pathogenic variants have been associated with malignant hyperthermia susceptibility (MHS) in patients receiving volatile anesthetic agents, including SUPRANE. Case reports as well as ex-vivo studies have identified multiple variants in RYR1 and CACNA1S associated with MHS. Variant pathogenicity should be assessed based on prior clinical experience, functional studies, prevalence information, or other evidence [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

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INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION

Highlight: SUPRANE, a general anesthetic, is an inhalation agent indicated:

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for induction and/or maintenance of anesthesia in adults (1.1)

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for maintenance of anesthesia in pediatric patients following induction with agents other than SUPRANE and intubation. 

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Induction of Anesthesia

SUPRANE is indicated as an inhalation agent for induction of anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient surgery in adults.

SUPRANE is contraindicated as an inhalation agent for the induction of anesthesia in pediatric patients because of a high incidence of moderate to severe upper airway adverse events.

1.2 Maintenance of Anesthesia

SUPRANE is indicated as an inhalation agent for maintenance of anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient surgery in adults and in pediatric patients.

After induction of anesthesia with agents other than SUPRANE, and tracheal intubation, SUPRANE is indicated for maintenance of anesthesia in infants and children. SUPRANE is not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non- intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions, including coughing, laryngospasm, and secretions [See Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Clinical Studies (14.5)].

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION

Highlight: •

SUPRANE should be administered only by persons trained in the administration of general anesthesia. It should only be administered using a vaporizer specifically designed and designated for use with SUPRANE. (2)

•

The administration of general anesthesia must be individualized based on the patient’s response, including cardiovascular and pulmonary changes. (2)

•

SUPRANE should not be used as the sole agent for anesthetic induction in patients with coronary artery disease or where increases in heart rate or blood pressure are undesirable. (2.6)

•

For dosing considerations in patients with intracranial space occupying lesions, see Full Prescribing Information. (2.7)

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Only persons trained in the administration of general anesthesia should administer SUPRANE. Only a vaporizer specifically designed and designated for use with desflurane should be utilized for its administration. Facilities for maintenance of a patent airway, artificial ventilation, oxygen enrichment, and circulatory resuscitation must be immediately available.

SUPRANE is administered by inhalation. The administration of general anesthesia must be individualized based on the patient’s response. Hypotension and respiratory depression increase as anesthesia with SUPRANE is deepened. The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of SUPRANE decreases with increasing patient age. The MAC for SUPRANE is also reduced by concomitant N2O administration (see Table 1). The dose should be adjusted accordingly. The following table provides mean relative potency based upon age and effect of N2O in predominately ASA physical status I or II patients.

Benzodiazepines and opioids decrease the MAC of SUPRANE [See Drug Interactions (7.1, Table 3)]. SUPRANE also decreases the doses of neuromuscular blocking agents required [See Drug Interactions (7.2, Table 4)]. The dose should be adjusted accordingly.

Table 1

N = number of crossover pairs (using up-and-down method of quantal response)

2.1 Preanesthetic Medication

Issues such as whether or not to premedicate and the choice of premedication(s) must be individualized. In clinical studies, patients scheduled to be anesthetized with SUPRANE frequently received IV preanesthetic medication, such as opioid and/or benzodiazepine.

2.2 Induction

In adults, some premedicated with opioid, a frequent starting concentration was 3% SUPRANE, increased in 0.5-1.0% increments every 2 to 3 breaths. End- tidal concentrations of 4-11%, SUPRANE with and without N2O, produced anesthesia within 2 to 4 minutes. When SUPRANE was tested as the primary anesthetic induction agent, the incidence of upper airway irritation (apnea, breathholding, laryngospasm, coughing and secretions) was high. During induction in adults, the overall incidence of oxyhemoglobin desaturation (SpO2 < 90%) was 6% [See Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

After induction in adults with an intravenous drug such as thiopental or propofol, SUPRANE can be started at approximately 0.5-1 MAC, whether the carrier gas is O2 or N2O/O2.

Inspired concentrations of SUPRANE greater than 12% have been safely administered to patients, particularly during induction of anesthesia. Such concentrations will proportionately dilute the concentration of oxygen; therefore, maintenance of an adequate concentration of oxygen may require a reduction of nitrous oxide or air if these gases are used concurrently.

2.3 Maintenance

Surgical levels of anesthesia in adults may be maintained with concentrations of 2.5-8.5% SUPRANE with or without the concomitant use of nitrous oxide. In children, surgical levels of anesthesia may be maintained with concentrations of 5.2-10% SUPRANE with or without the concomitant use of nitrous oxide.

During the maintenance of anesthesia with inflow rates of 2 L/min or more, the alveolar concentration of SUPRANE will usually be within 10% of the inspired concentration [FA/FI, See Figure 2 in Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

During the maintenance of anesthesia, increasing concentrations of SUPRANE produce dose-dependent decreases in blood pressure. Excessive decreases in blood pressure may be due to depth of anesthesia and in such instances may be corrected by decreasing the inspired concentration of SUPRANE.

Concentrations of SUPRANE exceeding 1 MAC may increase heart rate. Thus with this drug, an increased heart rate may not serve reliably as a sign of inadequate anesthesia.

2.4 Maintenance of Anesthesia in Intubated Pediatric Patients

SUPRANE is indicated for maintenance of anesthesia in infants and children after induction of anesthesia with agents other than SUPRANE, and tracheal intubation.

SUPRANE, with or without N2O, and halothane, with or without N2O were studied in three clinical trials of pediatric patients aged 2 weeks to 12 years (median 2 years) and ASA physical status I or II. The concentration of SUPRANE required for maintenance of general anesthesia is age-dependent [See Clinical Studies (14.5)].

Changes in blood pressure during maintenance of and recovery from anesthesia with SUPRANE /N2O/O2 are similar to those observed with halothane/N2O/O2. Heart rate during maintenance of anesthesia is approximately 10 beats per minute faster with SUPRANE than with halothane. Patients were judged fit for discharge from post-anesthesia care units within one hour with both SUPRANE and halothane. There were no differences in the incidence of nausea and vomiting between patients receiving SUPRANE or halothane.

2.5 Recovery

The recovery from general anesthesia should be assessed carefully before patients are discharged from the post anesthesia care unit (PACU).

2.6 Use in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

In patients with coronary artery disease, maintenance of normal hemodynamics is important to prevent myocardial ischemia. A rapid increase in desflurane concentration is associated with marked increase in pulse rate, mean arterial pressure and levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. SUPRANE should not be used as the sole agent for anesthetic induction in patients with coronary artery disease or patients where increases in heart rate or blood pressure are undesirable. It should be used with other medications, preferably intravenous opioids and hypnotics [See Clinical Studies (14.2)].

2.7 Neurosurgical Use

SUPRANE may produce a dose-dependent increase in cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) when administered to patients with intracranial space occupying lesions. SUPRANE should be administered at 0.8 MAC or less, and in conjunction with a barbiturate induction and hyperventilation (hypocapnia) until cerebral decompression in patients with known or suspected increases in CSFP. Appropriate attention must be paid to maintain cerebral perfusion pressure [See Clinical Studies (14.4)].

2.8 Observations Related to Vaporizer Use

Yellow discoloration of SUPRANE sometimes accompanied by particulates, has been observed through the vaporizer sight glass or after draining the vaporizer. The presence of discoloration or particulates in these situations does not alter the quality or efficacy of SUPRANE. If observed, refer to the respective vaporizer Instructions For Use (IFU) for recommended actions or contact Baxter Product Surveillance.

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WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION

Highlight: •

 Malignant Hyperthermia: Malignant hyperthermia may occur, especially in

•

individuals with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history. Discontinue triggering agents, administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and apply supportive therapies. (5.1)

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 Perioperative Hyperkalemia: Perioperative hyperkalemia may occur. Patients with latent or overt neuromuscular disease, particularly with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Early, aggressive intervention is recommended. (5.2)

•

 Respiratory Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients:

- Not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non-intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions. Monitor and treat accordingly.(5.3)

May cause airway narrowing and increased airway resistance in children with asthma or a history of recent upper airway infection. Monitor and treat accordingly.(5.3)

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 QT Prolongation: Carefully monitor cardiac rhythm when administering SUPRANE to susceptible patients. (5.4)

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 Interactions with Desiccated Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Absorbents: May react with desiccated CO2 absorbents to produce carbon monoxide. Replace desiccated CO2 absorbent before administration of SUPRANE. (5.5)

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 Hepatobiliary Disorders: May cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics. Approach repeated anesthesia with caution. (5.6)

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 Pediatric Neurotoxicity: In developing animals, exposures greater than 3 hours cause neurotoxicity. Weigh benefits against potential risks when considering elective procedures in children under 3 years old. (5.7)

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 Postoperative Agitation in Children: May cause postoperative agitation during emergence from anesthesia in children. (5.9)

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Malignant Hyperthermia

In susceptible individuals, volatile anesthetic agents, including desflurane, may trigger malignant hyperthermia, a skeletal muscle hypermetabolic state leading to high oxygen demand. Fatal outcomes of malignant hyperthermia have been reported.

The risk of developing malignant hyperthermia increases with the concomitant administration of succinylcholine and volatile anesthetic agents. SUPRANE can induce malignant hyperthermia in patients with known or suspected susceptibility based on genetic factors or family history, including those with certain inherited ryanodine receptor (RYR1) or dihydropyridine receptor (CACNA1S) variants. [see Contraindications (4), Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]

Signs consistent with malignant hyperthermia may include hyperthermia, hypoxia, hypercapnia, muscle rigidity (e.g., jaw muscle spasm), tachycardia (e.g., particularly that unresponsive to deepening anesthesia or analgesic medication administration), tachypnea, cyanosis, arrhythmias, hypovolemia, and hemodynamic instability. Skin mottling, coagulopathies, and renal failure may occur later in the course of the hypermetabolic process.

Successful treatment of malignant hyperthermia depends on early recognition of the clinical signs. If malignant hyperthermia is suspected, discontinue all triggering agents (i.e., volatile anesthetic agents and succinylcholine), administer intravenous dantrolene sodium, and initiate supportive therapies. Consult prescribing information for intravenous dantrolene sodium for additional information on patient management. Supportive therapies include administration of supplemental oxygen and respiratory support based on clinical need, maintenance of hemodynamic stability and adequate urinary output, management of fluid and electrolyte balance, correction of acid base derangements, and institution of measures to control rising temperature.

5.2 Perioperative Hyperkalemia

Use of inhaled anesthetic agents has been associated with rare increases in serum potassium levels that have resulted in cardiac arrhythmias and death in pediatric patients during the postoperative period. Patients with latent as well as overt neuromuscular disease, particularly Duchenne muscular dystrophy, appear to be most vulnerable. Concomitant use of succinylcholine has been associated with most, but not all, of these cases. These patients also experienced significant elevations in serum creatinine kinase levels and, in some cases, changes in urine consistent with myoglobinuria. Despite the similarity in presentation to malignant hyperthermia, none of these patients exhibited signs or symptoms of muscle rigidity or hypermetabolic state. Early and aggressive intervention to treat the hyperkalemia and resistant arrhythmias is recommended, as is subsequent evaluation for latent neuromuscular disease.

5.3 Respiratory Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients

SUPRANE is not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non-intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions, including coughing, laryngospasm and secretions [See Clinical Studies (14.5)].

Children, particularly if 6 years old or younger, who are under an anesthetic maintenance of SUPRANE delivered via laryngeal mask airway (LMA™ mask) are at increased risk for adverse respiratory reactions, e.g., coughing and laryngospasm, especially with removal of the laryngeal mask airway under deep anesthesia [See Clinical Studies (14.5)]. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with laryngospasm and treat accordingly.

When SUPRANE is used for maintenance of anesthesia in children with asthma or a history of recent upper airway infection, there is an increased risk for airway narrowing and increases in airway resistance. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with airway narrowing and treat accordingly.

5.4 QT Prolongation

QT prolongation, associated with torsade de pointes, has been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Carefully monitor cardiac rhythm when administering SUPRANE to susceptible patients (e.g., patients with congenital Long QT Syndrome or patients taking drugs that can prolong the QT interval).

5.5 Interactions with Desiccated Carbon Dioxide Absorbents

Desflurane like some other inhalation anesthetics, can react with desiccated carbon dioxide (CO2) absorbents to produce carbon monoxide that may result in elevated levels of carboxyhemoglobin in some patients. Case reports suggest that barium hydroxide lime and soda lime become desiccated when fresh gases are passed through the CO2 canister at high flow rates over many hours or days. When a clinician suspects that CO2 absorbent may be desiccated, it should be replaced before the administration of SUPRANE.

5.6 Hepatobiliary Disorders

With the use of halogenated anesthetics, disruption of hepatic function, icterus and fatal liver necrosis have been reported; such reactions appear to indicate hypersensitivity. As with other halogenated anesthetic agents, SUPRANE may cause sensitivity hepatitis in patients who have been sensitized by previous exposure to halogenated anesthetics [See Contraindications (4)]. Cirrhosis, viral hepatitis or other pre-existing hepatic disease may be a reason to select an anesthetic other than a halogenated anesthetic. As with all halogenated anesthetics, repeated anesthesia within a short period of time should be approached with caution.

5.7 Pediatric Neurotoxicity

Published animal studies demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs that block NMDA receptors and/or potentiate GABA activity increase neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain and result in long-term cognitive deficits when used for longer than 3 hours. The clinical significance of these findings is not clear. However, based on the available data, the window of vulnerability to these changes is believed to correlate with exposures in the third trimester of gestation through the first several months of life, but may extend out to approximately three years of age in humans. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.4), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)].

Some published studies in children suggest that similar deficits may occur after repeated or prolonged exposures to anesthetic agents early in life and may result in adverse cognitive or behavioral effects. These studies have substantial limitations, and it is not clear if the observed effects are due to the anesthetic/sedation drug administration or other factors such as the surgery or underlying illness.

Anesthetic and sedation drugs are a necessary part of the care of children needing surgery, other procedures, or tests that cannot be delayed, and no specific medications have been shown to be safer than any other. Decisions regarding the timing of any elective procedures requiring anesthesia should take into consideration the benefits of the procedure weighed against the potential risks.

5.8 Laboratory Findings

Transient elevations in glucose and white blood cell count may occur as with use of other anesthetic agents.

5.9 Postoperative Agitation in Children

Emergence from anesthesia in children may evoke a brief state of agitation that may hinder cooperation.

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USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION

Highlight: •

 Geriatric Use: The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of SUPRANE decreases with increasing patient age. (8.5)

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, embryo-fetal toxicity (reduced viable fetuses and/or increased post-implantation loss) was noted in pregnant rats and rabbits administered 1 MAC desflurane for 4 hours a day (4 MAC-hours/day) during organogenesis.

Published studies in pregnant primates demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs that block NMDA receptors and/or potentiate GABA activity during the period of peak brain development increases neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain of the offspring when used for longer than 3 hours. There are no data on pregnancy exposures in primates corresponding to periods prior to the third trimester in humans [See Data].

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is 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 2-4% and 15- 20%, respectively.

Clinical Considerations

Labor or Delivery

The safety of SUPRANE during labor or delivery has not been demonstrated. SUPRANE is a uterine-relaxant.

Data

Animal Data

Pregnant rats were exposed to 8.2% desflurane (1 MAC; 60% oxygen) for 0.5, 1.0, or 4.0 hours (0.5, 1.0, or 4.0 MAC-hours) per day during organogenesis (Gestation Day 6-15).

Embryo-fetal toxicity (increased post-implantation loss and reduced viable fetuses) was noted in the 4 hour treatment group in the presence of maternal toxicity (reduced body weight gain). There was no evidence of malformations in any group.

Pregnant rabbits were exposed to 8.9% desflurane (1 MAC; 60% oxygen) for 0.5, 1.0, or 3.0 hours per day during organogenesis (Gestation Days 6-18). Fetal toxicity (reduced viable fetuses) was noted in the 3 hour treatment group in the presence of maternal toxicity (reduced body weight). There was no evidence of malformations in any group.

Pregnant rats were exposed to 8.2% desflurane (1 MAC; 60% oxygen) for 0.5, 1.0, or 4.0 hours per day from late gestation and through lactation (Gestation Day 15 to Lactation Day 21). Pup body weights were reduced in the 4 hours per day group in the presence of maternal toxicity (increased mortality and reduced body weight gain). This study did not evaluate neurobehavioral function including learning and memory or reproductive behavior in the first generation (F1) pups.

In a published study in primates, administration of an anesthetic dose of ketamine for 24 hours on Gestation Day 122 increased neuronal apoptosis in the developing brain of the fetus. In other published studies, administration of either isoflurane or propofol for 5 hours on Gestation Day 120 resulted in increased neuronal and oligodendrocyte apoptosis in the developing brain of the offspring. With respect to brain development, this time period corresponds to the third trimester of gestation in the human. The clinical significance of these findings is not clear; however, studies in juvenile animals suggest neuroapoptosis correlates with long-term cognitive deficits [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Use in Specific Populations (8.4), and Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)].

8.2 Lactation

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when SUPRANE is administered to a nursing woman.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Respiratory Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients

SUPRANE is indicated for maintenance of anesthesia in infants and children after induction of anesthesia with agents other than SUPRANE, and tracheal intubation.

Is not approved for maintenance of anesthesia in non-intubated children due to an increased incidence of respiratory adverse reactions, including coughing (26%), laryngospasm (13%) and secretions (12%) [See Clinical Studies (14.5)].

Children, particularly if 6 years old or younger, who are under an anesthetic maintenance of SUPRANE delivered via laryngeal mask airway (LMA™ mask) are at increased risk for adverse respiratory reactions, e.g., coughing and laryngospasm, especially with removal of the laryngeal mask airway under deep anesthesia [See Clinical Studies (14.5)]. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with laryngospasm and treat accordingly.

When SUPRANE is used for maintenance of anesthesia in children with asthma or a history of recent upper airway infection, there is an increased risk for airway narrowing and increases in airway resistance. Therefore, closely monitor these patients for signs and symptoms associated with airway narrowing and treat accordingly.

Published juvenile animal studies demonstrate that the administration of anesthetic and sedation drugs, such as SUPRANE, that either block NMDA receptors or potentiate the activity of GABA during the period of rapid brain growth or synaptogenesis, results in widespread neuronal and oligodendrocyte cell loss in the developing brain and alterations in synaptic morphology and neurogenesis. Based on comparisons across species, the window of vulnerability to these changes is believed to correlate with exposures in the third trimester of gestation through the first several months of life, but may extend out to approximately 3 years of age in humans.

In primates, exposure to 3 hours of ketamine that produced a light surgical plane of anesthesia did not increase neuronal cell loss, however, treatment regimens of 5 hours or longer of isoflurane increased neuronal cell loss. Data from isoflurane-treated rodents and ketamine-treated primates suggest that the neuronal and oligodendrocyte cell losses are associated with prolonged cognitive deficits in learning and memory. The clinical significance of these nonclinical findings is not known, and healthcare providers should balance the benefits of appropriate anesthesia in pregnant women, neonates, and young children who require procedures with the potential risks suggested by the nonclinical data [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Use in Specific Populations (8.1), and Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of SUPRANE decreases with increasing patient age. The dose should be adjusted accordingly. The average MAC for SUPRANE in a 70 year old patient is two-thirds the MAC for a 20 year old patient [See Dosage and Administration (2) Table 1 and Clinical Studies (14.3)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

Concentrations of 1-4% SUPRANE in nitrous oxide/oxygen have been used in patients with chronic renal or hepatic impairment and during renal transplantation surgery.

Because of minimal metabolism, a need for dose adjustment in patients with renal and hepatic impairment is not to be expected.

Nine patients receiving desflurane (N=9) were compared to 9 patients receiving isoflurane, all with chronic renal insufficiency (serum creatinine 1.5-6.9 mg/dL). No differences in hematological or biochemical tests, including renal function evaluation, were seen between the two groups. Similarly, no differences were found in a comparison of patients receiving either desflurane (N=28) or isoflurane (N=30) undergoing renal transplant.

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

Eight patients receiving SUPRANE were compared to six patients receiving isoflurane, all with chronic hepatic disease (viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, or cirrhosis). No differences in hematological or biochemical tests, including hepatic enzymes and hepatic function evaluation, were seen.

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NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis: Long-term studies in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of desflurane have not been conducted.

Mutagenesis: In vitro and in vivo genotoxicity studies did not demonstrate mutagenicity or chromosomal damage by desflurane. Tests for genotoxicity included the Ames mutation assay, the metaphase analysis of human lymphocytes, and the mouse micronucleus assay.

Impairment of Fertility: In a study in which male animals were administered 8.2% desflurane (60% oxygen) for either 0.5, 1.0, or 4.0 hours per day beginning 63 days prior to mating and female animals were administered the same doses of desflurane for 14 days prior to mating through Lactation Day 21, there were no adverse effects on fertility in the 1.0 hour per day treatment group. However, reduced male and female fertility was noted in the 4 hour a day group. A dose dependent increase in mortality and decreased body weight gain was note in all treatment groups.

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Published studies in animals demonstrate that the use of anesthetic agents during the period of rapid brain growth or synaptogenesis results in widespread neuronal and oligodendrocyte cell loss in the developing brain and alterations in synaptic morphology and neurogenesis. Based on comparisons across species, the window of vulnerability to these changes is believed to correlate with exposures in the third trimester through the first several months of life, but may extend out to approximately 3 years of age in humans.

In primates, exposure to 3 hours of an anesthetic regimen that produced a light surgical plane of anesthesia did not increase neuronal cell loss, however, treatment regimens of 5 hours or longer increased neuronal cell loss. Data in rodents and in primates suggest that the neuronal and oligodendrocyte cell losses are associated with subtle but prolonged cognitive deficits in learning and memory. The clinical significance of these nonclinical findings is not known, and healthcare providers should balance the benefits of appropriate anesthesia in neonates and young children who require procedures against the potential risks suggested by the nonclinical data [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.4)].

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INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Anesthesia providers need to obtain the following information from patients prior to administration of anesthesia:

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Medications they are taking, including herbal supplements

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Drug allergies, including allergic reactions to anesthetic agents (including hepatic sensitivity)

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Any history of severe reactions to prior administration of anesthetic

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If the patient or a member of the patient’s family has a history of malignant hyperthermia or if the patient has a history of Duchenne muscular dystrophy or other latent neuromuscular disease

Anesthesia providers should inform patients of the risks associated with SUPRANE:

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Post-operative nausea and vomiting and respiratory adverse effects including coughing.

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There is no information of the effects of SUPRANE following anesthesia on the ability to operate an automobile or other heavy machinery. However, patients should be advised that the ability to perform such tasks may be impaired after receiving anesthetic agents.

Anesthesia providers should inform parents and caregivers of pediatric patients that emergence from anesthesia in children may evoke a brief state of agitation that may hinder cooperation.

Effect of anesthetic and sedation drugs on early brain development

Studies conducted in young animals and children suggest repeated or prolonged use of general anesthetic or sedation drugs in children younger than 3 years may have negative effects on their developing brains. Discuss with parents and caregivers the benefits, risks, and timing and duration of surgery or procedures requiring anesthetic and sedation drugs [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

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