hypovolemia, salt depletion, heart failure, liver dysfunction, and those taking
`
`diuretics, or ACE-inhibitors. Not recommended for patients with moderate or
`
`severe renal impairment (2, 5.6, 5.7, 7.1, 7.6, 8.7)
`
`• Anaphylactic reactions. Do not use VIMOVO in patients with the aspirin
`
`triad (5.8)
`
`• Serious skin adverse reactions such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-
`Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, which can be fatal and can
`occur without warning. Discontinue VIMOVO at first appearance of skin rash
`or any other sign of hypersensitivity (5.9)
`
`• Elevated liver enzymes and, rarely, severe hepatic reactions. Discontinue
`use immediately if abnormal liver enzymes persist or worsen (5.11, 8.6, 12.3)
`
`
`• Should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment (e.g., Child-
`Pugh C) (2, 5.11, 8.6, 12.3)
`
`
`• PPI therapy may be associated with increased risk of Clostridium difficile
`
`associated diarrhea. (5.16)
`
`• Avoid concomitant use of esomeprazole with clopidogrel (5.17)
`
`
`• Long-term and multiple daily dose PPI therapy is associated with an
`
`increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist or spine
`
`(5.18)
`
`
`• Interactions with diagnostic investigations for Neuroendocrine Tumors:
`Increases in intragastric pH may result in hypergastrinemia, enterochromaffin­
`like cell hyperplasia, and increased Chromogranin A levels which may
`interfere with diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. (5.20)
`
`
`
`• Hypomagnesemia has been reported rarely with prolonged treatment with
`PPIs (5.21)
`
`• Avoid concomitant use of VIMOVO with St John’s Wort or rifampin due
`
`to the potential reduction in esomeprazole levels. (5.22, 7.16)
`
`
`
`---------------------------------ADVERSE REACTIONS--------------
`Most common adverse reactions in clinical trials (>5%): erosive gastritis,
`
`dyspepsia, gastritis, diarrhea, gastric ulcer, upper abdominal pain, nausea (6.1)
`
`
`To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Horizon
`Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-479-6742 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or
`
`www.fda.gov/medwatch.
`
`
`----------------------------DRUG INTERACTIONS-----------
`
`• Concomitant use of NSAIDs may reduce the antihypertensive effect of
`
`
`ACE Inhibitors, diuretics, and beta-blockers (7.1, 7.6, 7.11)
`
`
`• As with all NSAIDs caution is advised when cyclosporin is co­
`administered because of the increased risk of nephrotoxicity. (7.4)
`
`
`• Tacrolimus: Concomitant administration of esomeprazole, a component of
`
`VIMOVO, and tacrolimus may increase the serum levels of tacrolimus. (7.5)
`
`• Concomitant use of NSAIDs increases lithium plasma levels (7.7)
`
`• Methotrexate: VIMOVO may increase serum levels of methotrexate (7.8)
`
`• Concomitant use of VIMOVO with warfarin may result in increased risk of
`
`
`bleeding complications. Monitor for increases in INR and prothrombin time
`
`(7.9)
`
`• Esomeprazole inhibits gastric acid secretion and may interfere with the
`
`
`absorption of drugs where gastric pH is an important determinant of
`bioavailability (e.g., ketoconazole, iron salts, erlotinib, and digoxin). Patients
`treated with VIMOVO and digoxin may need to be monitored for increases in
`
`digoxin toxicity (7.14)
`
`
`• Clopidogrel: esomeprazole, a component of VIMOVO, decreases exposure
`to the active metabolite of clopidogrel. (7.16, 12.3)
`
`---------------------------USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS-------
`
`• Pregnancy Category C: VIMOVO should not be used in late pregnancy (4,
`
`5.10, 8.1)
`
`• Hepatic Insufficiency: VIMOVO should be avoided in patients with severe
`
`
`hepatic insufficiency (2, 4, 5.11, 8.6, 12.3)
`
`• Renal Insufficiency: VIMOVO is not recommended in patients with
`
`moderate or severe renal insufficiency (2, 5.6, 5.7, 8.7, 12.3)
`
`SEE 17 FOR PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-
`Approved Medication Guide
`
`
`Revised 02/2014
`
`
`
`HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
`These highlights do not include all the information needed to use
`
`VIMOVO safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for
`VIMOVO.
`
`VIMOVO® (naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium) delayed release
`tablets, for oral use
`Initial US Approval: 2010
`
`
`WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL
`RISKS
`See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning
`
`Cardiovascular Risk
`
`
`
`• Naproxen, a component of VIMOVO, may cause an increased risk of
`
`
`serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and
`
`
`stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use.
`
`Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular
`
`disease may be at greater risk. (5.1)
`
`
`• VIMOVO is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in
`
`the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. (4, 5.1)
`
`Gastrointestinal Risk
`
`
`• NSAIDs, including naproxen, a component of VIMOVO, cause an
`
`increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including
`
`bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which
`can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without
`
`
`warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious
`gastrointestinal (GI) events. (5.4)
`
`
`
`-------------------------INDICATIONS AND USAGE-------------------------
`Relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and
`ankylosing spondylitis and to decrease the risk of developing gastric ulcers in
`
`patients at risk of developing NSAID associated gastric ulcers (1)
`
`------------------------DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION-----------------
`
`One tablet twice daily. Use the lowest effective dose. Should be avoided in
`moderate/severe renal insufficiency or in severe hepatic insufficiency.
`
`Consider dose reduction in mild/moderate hepatic insufficiency (2)
`
`
`
`----------------------DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS-----------------
`
`Delayed release tablets: 375 mg/20 mg or 500 mg/20 mg of naproxen and
`esomeprazole magnesium (3)
`
`
`----------------------------CONTRAINDICATIONS-------------------------
`
`• Known hypersensitivity to any component of VIMOVO or substituted
`benzimidazoles (4)
`
`• History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking
`
`
`aspirin or other NSAIDs (4, 5.8, 5.9, 5.13)
`
`
`• Use during the peri-operative period in the setting of coronary artery
`
`
`
` bypass graft (CABG) surgery (4, 5.1)
`
`
`• Late pregnancy (4, 5.10, 8.1)
`
`--------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS----------------------
`
`• Serious and potentially fatal cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events,
`
`myocardial infarction, and stroke. Patients with known CV disease/risk factors
`may be at greater risk (5.1)
`
`
`• New onset or worsening of pre-existing hypertension. Blood pressure
`
`
`should be monitored closely during treatment with VIMOVO (5.2, 7.1, 7.6)
`
`
`
`• Congestive heart failure and edema. VIMOVO should be used with caution
`
`
`in patients with fluid retention or heart failure (5.3)
`
`• Serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events, which can be fatal. The risk is
`
`greater in patients with a prior history of ulcer disease or GI bleeding, and in
`patients at high risk for GI events, especially the elderly. VIMOVO should be
`
`
`used with caution in these patients (5.4, 8.5)
`
`• Symptomatic response to esomeprazole does not preclude the presence of
`
`gastric malignancy (5.4)
`
`• Atrophic gastritis has been noted on biopsy with long-term omeprazole
`
`therapy (5.4)
`
`• Treatment should be withdrawn when active and clinically significant
`bleeding from any source occurs (5.5)
`
`
`• Renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury with long-term use. Use
`
`VIMOVO with caution in the elderly, those with impaired renal function,
`
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`

`

`
`7.3 Cholestyramine
`
`7.4 Cyclosporin
`
`7.5 Tacrolimus
`
`
`7.6 Diuretics
`
`
`7.7 Lithium
`
`
`7.8 Methotrexate
`
`
`7.9 Anticoagulants
`
`
`7.10 Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
`
`
`7.11 Other Information Concerning Drug Interactions
`
`
`7.12 Interactions With Investigations of Neuroendocrine Tumors
`
`
`7.13 Drug/Laboratory Test Interaction
`
`
`
`7.14 Interactions Related to Absorption
`
`
`7.15 Antiretroviral Agents
`
`
`7.16 Effects on Hepatic Metabolism/cytochrome P-450 pathways
`
`
`
`7.17 Other Pharmacokinetic-based Interactions
`
`
`
`USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
`
`
`8.1 Pregnancy
`
`
`
`8.2 Labor and Delivery
`
`
`
`8.3 Nursing Mothers
`
`
`
`8.4 Pediatric Use
`
`
`
`8.5 Geriatric Use
`
`
`
`8.6 Hepatic Insufficiency
`
`
`
`8.7 Renal Insufficiency
`
`
`OVERDOSAGE
`
`DESCRIPTION
`
`CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
`
`12.1 Mechanism of Action
`
`
`12.2 Pharmacodynamics
`
`
`12.3 Pharmacokinetics
`
`
`NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
`
`13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
`
`
`13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology
`
`
`CLINICAL STUDIES
`
`HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
`PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
`
`
`8
`
`
`10
`
`11
`
`12
`
`
`13
`
`
`14
`
`16
`
`17
`
`*Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are
`not listed
`
`FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
`
`
`WARNING: CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL RISKS
`
`
`
`1
`
`2
`
`3
`
`4
`
`5
`
`
`INDICATIONS AND USAGE
`
`DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
`
`
`DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
`
`CONTRAINDICATIONS
`
`WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
`
`
`5.1 Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
`
`
`
`5.2 Hypertension
`
`
`
`5.3 Congestive Heart Failure and Edema
`
`
`5.4 Gastrointestinal Effects — Risk of Ulceration, Bleeding, and
`
`
`Perforation
`
`
`
`5.5 Active Bleeding
`
`
`
`5.6 Renal Effects
`
`
`
`5.7 Advanced Renal Disease
`
`
`
`5.8 Anaphylactic Reactions
`
`
`
`5.9 Skin Reactions
`
`
`
`5.10 Pregnancy
`
`
`
`5.11 Hepatic Effects
`
`
`
`5.12 Hematological Effects
`
`
`
`5.13 Pre-existing Asthma
`
`
`
`5.14 Concomitant NSAID Use
`
`
`5.15 Corticosteroid Treatment
`
`5.16 Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea
`
`5.17 Interaction with Clopidogrel
`
`
`5.18 Bone Fracture
`
`
`5.19 Masking of Inflammation and Fever
`
`5.20 Laboratory Tests
`
`
` 5.21 Hypomagnesemia
`
`5.22 Concomitant use of St John's Wort or Rifampin with VIMOVO
`
`
`5.23 Concomitant use of VIMOVO with Methotrexate
`
`
`ADVERSE REACTIONS
`
`
`6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
`
`
`
`6.2 Postmarketing Experience
`
`
`DRUG INTERACTIONS
`
`
`7.1 ACE-inhibitors
`
`
`
`7.2 Aspirin
`
`
`
`
`
`6
`
`
`7
`
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`

`

`FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
`
`
`
`Cardiovascular Risk
`
`
`ƒ Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), a
`component of VIMOVO, may cause an increased risk
`of
`serious
`cardiovascular
`thrombotic
`events,
`
` myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal.
` This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients
`
`for
`with cardiovascular disease or
`risk
`factors
`
` cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk [see
`
` Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
`
`ƒ VIMOVO is contraindicated for the treatment of peri­
`operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass
`graft (CABG) surgery [see Contraindications (4), and
`
`
`Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
`
`
`
`
`Gastrointestinal Risk
`
`
`including naproxen, a component of
`ƒ NSAIDs,
`VIMOVO, cause an
`increased
`risk of serious
`gastrointestinal adverse events
`including bleeding,
`ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines,
`which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time
`during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly
`patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal
`events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
`
`
`
`1
`
`INDICATIONS AND USAGE
`VIMOVO is a combination product that contains naproxen and esomeprazole. It is
`indicated for the relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and
`ankylosing spondylitis and to decrease the risk of developing gastric ulcers in patients at
`
`risk of developing NSAID-associated gastric ulcers. VIMOVO is not recommended for
`
`initial treatment of acute pain because the absorption of naproxen is delayed compared to
`absorption from other naproxen-containing products. Controlled studies do not extend
`beyond 6 months.
`
`
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`3
`
`
`

`

`
`2
`
`3
`
`
`
`DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
` Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of VIMOVO and other treatment
`
`options before deciding to use VIMOVO. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest
`duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. VIMOVO does not allow for
`
`administration of a lower daily dose of esomeprazole. If a dose of esomeprazole lower
`
`than a total daily dose of 40 mg is more appropriate, a different treatment should be
`
`considered.
`
`Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis
`The dosage is one tablet twice daily of VIMOVO 375 mg naproxen and 20 mg of
`
`esomeprazole or 500 mg naproxen and 20 mg of esomeprazole.
`
`The tablets are to be swallowed whole with liquid. Do not split, chew, crush or dissolve
`
`
`the tablet. VIMOVO is to be taken at least 30 minutes before meals.
`
`Geriatric Patients
`Studies indicate that although total plasma concentration of naproxen is unchanged, the
`unbound plasma fraction of naproxen is increased in the elderly. Use caution when high
`doses are required and some adjustment of dosage may be required in elderly patients. As
`
`with other drugs used in the elderly use the lowest effective dose [see Use in Specific
`Populations (8.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
`
`
`Patients With Moderate to Severe Renal Impairment
`Naproxen-containing products are not recommended for use in patients with moderate to
`severe or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) [see Warnings and
`Precautions (5.6, 5.7) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].
`
`
`
`Hepatic Insufficiency
`Monitor patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment closely and consider a
`possible dose reduction based on the naproxen component of VIMOVO.
`
`VIMOVO should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Warnings
`and Precautions (5.11), Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology
`
`
`(12.3)].
`
`
`Pediatric Patients
`The safety and efficacy of VIMOVO in children younger than 18 years has not been
`established. VIMOVO is therefore not recommended for use in children.
`
`
`DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
`Oval, yellow, delayed release tablets for oral administration containing either:
`
`• 375 mg enteric coated naproxen and 20 mg esomeprazole (as magnesium
`
`trihydrate) tablets printed with 375/20 in black, or
`
`• 500 mg enteric coated naproxen and 20 mg esomeprazole (as magnesium
`
`trihydrate) tablets printed with 500/20 in black.
`
`
`
`4
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`

`

`4
`
`5
`5.1
`
`5.2
`
`5.3
`
`
`
`CONTRAINDICATIONS
`VIMOVO is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to naproxen,
`esomeprazole magnesium, substituted benzimidazoles, or to any of the excipients.
`
`VIMOVO is contraindicated in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or
`allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, rarely fatal,
`anaphylactic-like reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings
`
` and Precautions (5.8, 5.13)]. Hypersensitivity reactions, e.g., angioedema and
`anaphylactic reaction/shock, have been reported with esomeprazole use.
`
` VIMOVO is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of
`
`coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
`
`VIMOVO is contraindicated in patients in the late stages of pregnancy [see Warnings and
`Precautions (5.10) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
`
`
`
`WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
`Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
`Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years
`
`duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events,
`myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All NSAIDS, both COX-2 selective
`and nonselective, may have a similar risk. Patients with known CV disease or risk factors
`for CV disease may be at greater risk. To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV
`event in patients treated with an NSAID, the lowest effective dose should be used for the
`shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the
`development of such events, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients
`should be informed about the signs and/or symptoms of serious CV events and the steps
`to take if they occur.
`
`
`There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk
`
`of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use.
`
`
`Two large, controlled, clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of
`pain in the first 10–14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of
`myocardial infarction and stroke [see Contraindications (4)].
`
`
`Hypertension
`NSAIDs, including naproxen, a component of VIMOVO, can lead to onset of new
`hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, either of which may contribute
`to the increased incidence of CV events. Patients taking thiazides or loop diuretics may
`have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs. NSAIDs should be used
`with caution in patients with hypertension. Blood pressure (BP) should be monitored
`closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy
`[see Drug Interactions (7.1, 7.6)].
`
`Congestive Heart Failure and Edema
`Fluid retention, edema, and peripheral edema have been observed in some patients taking
`NSAIDs and should be used with caution in patients with fluid retention or heart failure.
`
`
`5
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`

`

`5.4 Gastrointestinal Effects — Risk of Ulceration, Bleeding, and Perforation
`NSAIDs,
`including naproxen, a component of VIMOVO, can cause serious
`gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and
`perforation of the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. While
`VIMOVO has been shown to significantly decrease the occurrence of gastric ulcers
`compared to naproxen alone, ulceration and associated complications can still occur.
`
`These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms,
`in patients treated with NSAIDs. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper
`
`GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or
`perforation caused by NSAIDs occur in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3–6
`months, and in about 2–4% of patients treated for one year. These trends continue with
`longer duration of use, increasing the likelihood of developing a serious GI event at some
`
`time during the course of therapy. However, even short-term therapy is not without risk.
`The utility of periodic laboratory monitoring has not been demonstrated, nor has it been
`adequately assessed.
`
`VIMOVO should be prescribed with caution in those with a prior history of ulcer disease
`or gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or
`gastrointestinal bleeding who use NSAIDs have a greater than 10-fold increased risk of
`developing a GI bleed compared to patients with neither of these risk factors. Other
`factors that increase the risk for GI bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs include
`
`concomitant use of oral corticosteroids or anticoagulants or antiplatelets (including low-
`dose aspirin), longer duration of NSAID therapy, smoking, use of alcohol, older age, and
`poor general health status. Most spontaneous reports of fatal GI events are in elderly or
`debilitated patients, and therefore special care should be taken in treating this population.
`
`To minimize the potential risk for an adverse GI event in patients treated with an NSAID
`or NSAID-containing product, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest
`
`possible duration. Patients and physicians should remain alert for signs and symptoms of
`GI ulceration and bleeding during NSAID therapy and promptly initiate additional
`evaluation and treatment if a serious GI adverse event is suspected. This should include
`discontinuation of the NSAID until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out. For high risk
`
`patients, alternate therapies that do not involve NSAIDs should be considered.
`
`Epidemiological studies of the case-control and cohort design have demonstrated an
`
`association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and
`the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In two studies, concurrent use of an
`NSAID, COX-2 inhibitor, or aspirin potentiated the risk of bleeding [see Drug
`Interactions (7.2, 7.10)]. Although these studies focused on upper gastrointestinal
`bleeding, bleeding at other sites cannot be ruled out.
`
`NSAIDs should be given with care to patients with a history of inflammatory bowel
`
`disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease) as their condition may be exacerbated.
`
`Gastrointestinal symptomatic response to therapy with VIMOVO does not preclude the
`presence of gastric malignancy.
`
`Atrophic gastritis has been noted occasionally in gastric corpus biopsies from patients
`treated long-term with omeprazole, of which esomeprazole is an enantiomer and a
`
`component of VIMOVO.
`
`
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
`
`6
`
`

`

`5.5
`
`
` Active Bleeding
`When active and clinically significant bleeding from any source occurs in patients
`receiving VIMOVO, the treatment should be withdrawn.
`
`5.6 Renal Effects
`Long-term administration of NSAIDs has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other
`renal injury. Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins
`have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients,
`administration of an NSAID may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin
`formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal
`
`decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal
`function, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction, salt depletion, those taking
`diuretics and ACE inhibitors, and the elderly. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy is
`usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.
`
`5.7 Advanced Renal Disease
`No information is available from controlled clinical studies regarding the use of
`VIMOVO in patients with advanced renal disease. Therefore, treatment with VIMOVO is
`not recommended in these patients with advanced renal disease. If VIMOVO therapy
`must be initiated, close monitoring of the patient’s renal function is advisable [see
`
`Dosage and Administration (2), Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical
`
`Pharmacology (12.3)].
`
`5.8 Anaphylactic Reactions
`Anaphylactic reactions may occur in patients without known prior exposure to either
`
`component of VIMOVO. NSAIDs should not be given to patients with the aspirin triad.
`This symptom complex typically occurs in asthmatic patients who experience rhinitis
`
`with or without nasal polyps, or who exhibit severe, potentially fatal bronchospasm after
`taking aspirin or other NSAIDs [see Contraindications (4)]. Emergency help should be
`
`sought in cases where an anaphylactic reaction occurs. Anaphylactic reactions, like
`anaphylaxis, may have a fatal outcome.
`
`5.9 Skin Reactions
`NSAIDs can cause serious skin adverse events such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-
`Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, which can be fatal. These serious
`
`events may occur without warning. Patients should be informed about the signs and
`symptoms of serious skin manifestations and use of the drug should be discontinued at
`
`the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity.
`
` Pregnancy
`
`Pregnancy Category C
`In late pregnancy, as with other NSAIDs, naproxen, a component of VIMOVO, should be
`
`avoided because it may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus [see
`
`Contraindications (4), and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
`
`5.11 Hepatic Effects
`Borderline elevations of one or more liver tests may occur in up to 15% of patients taking
`NSAIDs including naproxen, a component of VIMOVO. Hepatic abnormalities may be
`
`the result of hypersensitivity rather than direct toxicity. These laboratory abnormalities
`
`may progress, may remain essentially unchanged, or may be transient with continued
`7
`
`5.10
`
`
`
`Reference ID: 3460368
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`therapy. The SGPT (ALT) test is probably the most sensitive indicator of liver
`
`dysfunction. Notable elevations of ALT or AST (approximately three or more times the
`upper limit of normal) have been reported in approximately 1% of patients in clinical
`trials with NSAIDs. In addition, rare cases of severe hepatic reactions, including jaundice
`
`and fatal fulminant hepatitis, liver necrosis and hepatic failure, some of them with fatal
`outcomes, have been reported.
`
`A patient with symptoms and/or signs suggesting liver dysfunction, or in whom an
`abnormal liver test has occurred, should be evaluated for evidence of the development of
`more severe hepatic reaction while on therapy with VIMOVO.
`
`
`If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic
`manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.), VIMOVO should be discontinued.
`
`Chronic alcoholic liver disease and probably other diseases with decreased or abnormal
`
`plasma proteins (albumin) reduce the total plasma concentration of naproxen, but the
`plasma concentration of unbound naproxen is increased. Caution is advised when high
`doses are required and some adjustment of dosage may be required in these patients. It is
`prudent to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration of adequate
`treatment.
`
`VIMOVO should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Dosage and
`Administration (2), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
`
`
`5.12 Hematological Effects
`Anemia is sometimes seen in patients receiving NSAIDs. This may be due to fluid
`retention, occult or gross GI blood loss, or an incompletely described effect upon
`erythropoiesis. Patients on long-term treatment with NSAIDs should have their
`hemoglobin or hematocrit checked if they exhibit any signs or symptoms of anemia.
`
`NSAIDs inhibit platelet aggregation and have been shown to prolong bleeding time in
`some patients. Unlike aspirin, their effect on platelet function is quantitatively less, of
`shorter duration, and reversible. Patients receiving VIMOVO who may be adversely
`affected by alterations in platelet function, such as those with coagulation disorders or
`patients receiving anticoagulants or antiplatelets, should be carefully monitored.
`
`5.13 Pre-existing Asthma
`Patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma. The use of aspirin in patients
`
`with aspirin-sensitive asthma has been associated with severe bronchospasm, which can
`be fatal. Since cross reactivity, including bronchospasm, between aspirin and other
`NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, VIMOVO should not be
`administered to patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity and should be used with
`
`
`caution in patients with pre-existing asthma.
`
`5.14 Concomitant NSAID Use
`VIMOVO contains naproxen as one of its active ingredients. It should not be used with
`other naproxen-containing products since they all circulate in the plasma as the naproxen
`anion.
`
`The concomitant use of VIMOVO with any dose of a non-aspirin NSAID should be
`avoided due to the potential for increased risk of adverse reactions.
`8
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`Reference ID: 3460368
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`5.15
`
`
` Corticosteroid Treatment
`VIMOVO cannot be expected to substitute for corticosteroids or to treat corticosteroid
`insufficiency. Abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroids may lead to disease exacerbation.
`Patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should have their therapy tapered slowly if a
`decision is made to discontinue corticosteroids and the patient should be observed closely
`for any evidence of adverse effects, including adrenal insufficiency and exacerbation of
`symptoms of arthritis.
`
`5.17
`
`
`
`5.16 Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea
`
`Published observational studies suggest that PPI therapy like VIMOVO may be
`associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea, especially in
`hospitalized patients. This diagnosis should be considered for diarrhea that does not
`improve [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
`
`
`Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to
`the condition being treated. [see Dosage and Administration (2)].
`
`
` Interaction with Clopidogrel
`Avoid concomitant use of esomeprazole with clopidogrel. Clopidogrel is a prodrug.
`Inhibition of platelet aggregation by clopidogrel is entirely due to an active metabolite.
`The metabolism of clopidogrel to its active metabolite can be impaired by use with
`concomitant medications, such as esomeprazole, that inhibit CYP2C19 activity.
`
`Concomitant use of clopidogrel with 40 mg esomeprazole reduces the pharmacological
`activity of clopidogrel. When using esomeprazole, a component of VIMOVO, consider
`alternative anti-platelet therapy [see Drug Interactions (7.16) and Pharmacokinetics
`
`(12.3)]
`
`
`5.18 Bone Fracture
`
`Several published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy
`may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip,
`wrist, or spine. The risk of fracture was increased in patients who received high-dose,
`defined as multiple daily doses, and long-term PPI therapy (a year or longer). Patients
`should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the
`condition being treated. Patients at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures should be
`treatment guidelines. [see Dosage and
`managed according
`to
`the established
`Administration (2) and Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
`
`
`VIMOVO (a combination PPI/NSAID) is approved for use twice a day and does not
`allow for administration of a lower daily dose of the PPI. [see Dosage and
`Administration (2)].
`
`
`5.19 Masking of Inflammation and Fever
`The pharmacological activity of VIMOVO in reducing fever and inflammation may
`
`diminish the utility of these diagnostic signs in detecting complications of presumed
`noninfectious, noninflammatory painful conditions.
`
` Laboratory Tests
`Because serious GI tract ulcerations and bleeding can occur without warning symptoms,
`physicians should monitor for signs or symptoms of GI bleeding. Patients on long-term
`
`treatment with NSAIDs should have their CBC and a chemistry profile checked
`9
`
`
`5.20
`
`
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`Reference ID: 3460368
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`

`

`periodically. If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver or renal disease develop,
`systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.) or if abnormal liver tests
`persist or worsen, VIMOVO should be discontinued.
`
`Patients with initial hemoglobin values of 10 g or less who are to receive long-term
`therapy should have hemoglobin values determined periodically.
`
`Serum chromogranin A (CgA) levels increase secondary to drug-induced decreases in
`gastric acidity. The increased CgA level may cause false positive results in diagnostic
`
`temporarily stop
`investigations for neuroendocrine
`tumors.
`Providers should
`
`esomeprazole treatment before assessing CgA levels and consider repeating the test if
`
`initial CgA levels are high. If serial tests are performed (e.g. for monitoring), the same
`
`commercial laboratory should be used for testing, as reference ranges between tests may
`
`vary [see Pharmacodynamics (12.2)].
`
` Hypomagnesemia
`Hypomagnesemia, symptomatic and asymptomatic, has been reported rarely in patients
`treated with PPIs for at least three months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious
`adverse events include tetany, arrhythmias, and seizures. In most patients, treatment of
`hypomagnesemia required magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI.
`
`5.21
`
`For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with medications
`such as digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia (e.g., diuretics), health care
`professionals may consider monitoring magnesium levels prior to initiation of PPI
`treatment and periodically [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
`
`5.22 Concomitant use of St John’s Wort or Rifampin with VIMOVO
`Drugs that induce CYP2C19 or CYP3A4 (such as St John’s Wort or rifampin) can
`substantially d