Get your patient on Alkindi Sprinkle (Hydrocortisone)

• Individualize the dose for each patient, using the lowest possible dosage.
• The recommended starting replacement dosage is 8 to 10 mg/m ² /day daily. Higher doses may be needed based on patient’s age and symptoms of the disease. Use of lower starting doses may be sufficient in patients with residual but decreased endogenous cortisol production.
• Round the dose to the nearest 0.5 mg or 1 mg. The contents of more than one capsule may be needed to supply the required dose.
• Divide the total daily dose in 3 doses and administer 3 times daily. Older pediatric patients may have their daily dose divided by 2 and administered twice daily.
• Monitor patients for symptoms of under and/or overtreatment including signs and symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency, linear growth and weight gain. Adjust doses accordingly.
• During episodes of acute febrile illness, gastroenteritis, surgery or major trauma, patients may need increased doses [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )] .

When switching patients from other oral hydrocortisone formulations to ALKINDI SPRINKLE, use the same total daily hydrocortisone dosage. Closely monitor patients after switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE for symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency. If
symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur after switching, increase the total daily dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

• ALKINDI SPRINKLE are oral granules contained within capsules.
• Do not swallow the capsules. Do not chew or crush the granules.
• Do not use ALKINDI SPRINKLE granules in nasogastric or gastric tubes as they may

cause tube blockage.

• Open the capsule and administer the granules as follows:
  • Hold the capsule so that the printed strength is at the top and tap to ensure all

the granules are in the lower half of the capsule.

• Squeeze the bottom of the capsule gently and twist off the top of the capsule.
• The granules may be administered by pouring the granules directly onto the

patient’s tongue, pouring the granules onto a spoon and placing in the patient’s
mouth, or sprinkling onto a spoonful of cold or room temperature soft food (such as
yogurt or fruit puree). The granules should be given and swallowed within 5 minutes
to avoid a bitter taste as the outer taste masking cover can dissolve.

• Tap the capsule to ensure all the granules are removed. Avoid wetting the capsule

on the tongue or soft food as this may result in granules remaining in the capsule.

• Immediately follow administration with ingestion of fluids such as water, milk, breast

milk or formula to ensure all granules are swallowed.

• Do not add the granules to liquid as this can result in reductions in the dose administered and

may result in a bitter taste.

• Instruct patients and/or caregivers to contact their healthcare provider if the full dose is not

administered (e.g., regurgitating, vomiting of granules). A repeat dose may be required to
avoid adrenal insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Risk Summary

Untreated adrenocortical insufficiency in pregnancy can result in a high rate of complications, including maternal mortality. The use of physiologic doses of hydrocortisone is not expected to cause major birth defects, miscarriage and adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Available data from observational studies with hydrocortisone use in pregnancy have not identified a clear drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. 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.

Data

Human Data

Available data from observational studies with hydrocortisone use in pregnant women have not identified a clear drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Evidence from published epidemiologic studies suggest that there may be a small increased risk of cleft lip with or without cleft palate associated with first trimester systemic corticosteroid use in pregnant patients. However, the data are limited and report inconsistent findings, and studies have important methodological limitations, including non-randomized design, retrospective data collection, lack of dose-response data and the inability to control for confounders,such as underlying maternal disease and use of concomitant medications. In addition, unlike other corticosteroids, hydrocortisone is enzymatically deactivated by the placenta and therefore, limits fetal exposure.

Animal Data

Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in many species when given in doses equivalent to the human dose. Animal studies in which corticosteroids have been given to pregnant mice, rats and rabbits without adrenocortical insufficiency have yielded an increased incidence of cleft palate in the offspring.

Risk Summary

Cortisol is present in human milk. The use of hydrocortisone at a physiologic dose for adrenocortical insufficiency is not expected to adversely affect the breastfed infant or milk production. There are no data on the presence of hydrocortisone in breast milk, the effect on the breastfed infant or on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ALKINDI SPRINKLE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from ALKINDI SPRINKLE or from the underlying maternal condition.

The safety and effectiveness of ALKINDI SPRINKLE have been established in pediatric patients for replacement therapy of adrenocortical insufficiency and the information on this use is discussed throughout the labeling. Use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE in pediatric patients is supported by use in pediatric patients for adrenocortical insufficiency with another hydrocortisone product, along with supportive pharmacokinetic and safety data in 24 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency. No new adverse reactions were identified [see Adverse Reactions (6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. ALKINDI SPRINKLE are oral granules contained within capsules that must be opened and not swallowed whole to administer the granules. Additionally, ALKINDI SPRINKLE granules should not be administered via nasogastric or gastric tubes as they may cause tube blockage [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Undertreatment with ALKINDI SPRINKLE or sudden discontinuation of therapy with ALKINDI SPRINKLE may lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenal crisis, and death. Adrenal crisis may also be induced by stress events such as infections or surgery when patients require higher doses of corticosteroids. Symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency include poor feeding, fatigue, low muscle tone, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, hypoglycemia, low blood pressure and electrolyte disturbances.

Increase the dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE during periods of stress (infections, surgery). Switch patients who are vomiting, severely ill or unable to take oral medications to parenteral corticosteroid formulations without delay. Once the patient recovers, gradually reduce the steroid dosage used during the acute event.

When switching patients to ALKINDI SPRINKLE from another oral hydrocortisone formulation, consider the potential for dosing inaccuracy if the other oral hydrocortisone formulation has been manipulated (e.g., split or crushed tablets, compounded formulations). Manipulation of oral hydrocortisone formulations may result in a relative difference in hydrocortisone exposure when using the same dosage to initiate ALKINDI SPRINKLE treatment. Closely monitor patients after switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE to ensure ALKINDI SPRINKLE is providing the same level of hydrocortisone exposure as the previously used oral hydrocortisone formulation. If symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur, increase the total daily dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE.

Use of the recommended dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2)] as a replacement therapy in pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency is not expected to cause immunosuppression or increase the risk of infection. The use of a greater than replacement dosage can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic pathogens. The use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE at greater than replacement dosage can:

• Reduce resistance to new infections

• Exacerbate existing infections

• Increase the risk of disseminated infections

• Increase the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of latent infections

• Mask some signs of infection

Infections associated with the use of corticosteroids at a greater than replacement dosage range

from mild to severe or fatal, and the rate of infectious complications increases with increasing

corticosteroid dosages.

Monitor for the development of infection and consider ALKINDI SPRINKLE dosage reduction as

needed.

Long-term use of corticosteroids in excessive doses may cause growth retardation in pediatric patients. Historical cohorts of adults treated from childhood for congenital adrenal hyperplasia have been found to have growth retardation. Effects on linear growth are less likely when using corticosteroids as replacement therapy. Use the minimum dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE to achieve desired clinical response and monitor the patient’s growth.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids in supraphysiologic doses may cause Cushing’s syndrome. Symptoms and signs of Cushing’s syndrome include weight gain, decreased height velocity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, edema, easy bruising, muscle weakness, red round face, depression or mood swings. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome every 6 months; pediatric patients under one year of age may require more frequent monitoring, e.g., every 3 to 4 months.

Corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption which may lead to development of osteoporosis. Historical cohorts of adults treated from childhood for congenital adrenal hyperplasia have been found to have reduced bone mineral density and increased fracture rates. Use the minimum dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE to achieve desired clinical response.

Corticosteroid use may be associated with severe psychiatric adverse reactions. Euphoria, mania, psychosis with hallucinations and delirium or depression have been seen in patients at replacement doses of hydrocortisone [see Adverse Reactions (6 )] . Symptoms typically emerge within a few days or weeks of starting the treatment. Risks may be higher with high doses, although dose levels do not allow prediction of the onset, type, severity or duration of reactions. Most reactions resolve after either dose reduction or withdrawal, although specific treatment may be necessary. Monitor patients for behavioral and mood disturbances during treatment with ALKINDI SPRINKLE. Instruct caregivers and/or patients to seek medical advice if psychiatric symptoms develop.

Ophthalmic effects, such as cataract, glaucoma or central serous chorioretinopathy have been reported with prolonged use of corticosteroids in high doses. Monitor patients for blurred vision or other visual disturbances. If patients develop ophthalmic adverse reactions, refer them to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

There is an increased risk of gastrointestinal perforation in patients with certain gastrointestinal disorders. Signs of gastrointestinal perforation, such as peritoneal irritation may be masked in patients receiving corticosteroids. Corticosteroids should be used with caution if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infections; diverticulitis; fresh intestinal anastomoses; and active or latent peptic ulcer.

Concurrent administration of corticosteroids with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Monitor patients receiving corticosteroids and concomitant NSAIDS for gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7 )] .

Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy, most often

for chronic conditions at a dosage greater than replacement (supraphysiologic dosage). If patients

take a supraphysiologic chronic dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE, they are at increased risk of

developing Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Administration of live vaccines may be acceptable in ALKINDI SPRINKLE-treated pediatric patients

with adrenocortical insufficiency who receive replacement corticosteroids.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

ALKINDI SPRINKLE was evaluated in an uncontrolled, open-label, single-arm clinical study in 18 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency. Adrenocortical insufficiency was due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia in 17 patients and to hypopituitarism in one patient. All patients received at least one dose of ALKINDI SPRINKLE. The age ranged from 36 days to 5.7 years at start of treatment; 8 patients were female and 10 were male; 100% were White. Adverse reactions that were reported in two or more patients (≥ 11%) are shown in Table 1.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions seen in pediatric and adult patients associated with the use of corticosteroids were identified in the literature and from postmarketing reports. Because some of these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Common adverse reactions for corticosteroids include fluid retention, alteration in glucose tolerance, elevation in blood pressure, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite and weight gain.

Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema

Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, congestive heart failure, fat embolism, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis

Dermatologic: Acne, allergic dermatitis, cutaneous and subcutaneous atrophy, dry scalp, edema, facial erythema, hyper or hypo-pigmentation, impaired wound healing, increased sweating, petechiae and ecchymoses, rash, sterile abscess, striae, suppressed reactions to skin tests, thin fragile skin, thinning scalp hair, urticaria

Endocrine: Abnormal fat deposits, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, development of Cushingoid state, hirsutism, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus and increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics, menstrual irregularities, moon faces, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness), suppression of growth in pediatric patients

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Fluid retention, potassium loss, hypertension, hypokalemic alkalosis, sodium retention

Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention, elevation in serum liver enzymes levels (usually reversible upon discontinuation), hepatomegaly, hiccups, malaise, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, ulcerative esophagitis

General: Increased appetite and weight gain

Metabolic: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism

Musculoskeletal: Osteonecrosis of femoral and humeral heads, Charcot-like arthropathy, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pathologic fracture of long bones, steroid myopathy, tendon rupture, vertebral compression fractures

Neurological: Arachnoiditis, convulsions, depression, emotional instability, euphoria, headache, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, insomnia, meningitis, mood swings, neuritis, neuropathy, paraparesis/paraplegia, paresthesia, personality changes, sensory disturbances, vertigo

Ophthalmic: Exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, posterior subcapsular cataracts, and central serous chorioretinopathy

Reproductive: Alteration in motility and number of spermatozoa

Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids, adrenocortical steroids, cause varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body's immune responses to diverse stimuli..

Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states.

Absorption
Following oral administration, a dose of ALKINDI SPRINKLE 4x5 mg was approximately 87% bioavailable when compared to intravenous hydrocortisone in dexamethasone-suppressed healthy adult male volunteers. The median time to peak serum concentration (Tmax) was 0.75 hours post-dose following oral administration.

In an open label, single dose study in 24 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency, ALKINDI SPRINKLE (1-4 mg based on body surface area) increased cortisol levels from baseline to median cortisol level 19.4 mcg/dL (range 12.5 – 52.4 mcg/dL) at Cmax (60 minutes post-dose).

Effect of Food
The coadministration of ALKINDI SPRINKLE with soft food (yogurt and fruit puree) has been studied in healthy adult male volunteers, where it was shown to be bioequivalent to administration of dry granules directly to the back of the tongue.

Distribution
90% or more of circulating hydrocortisone is reversibly bound to protein.

The binding is accounted for by two protein fractions. One, corticosteroid-binding globulin is a glycoprotein; the other is albumin.

Elimination
Hydrocortisone is metabolized in the liver and most body tissues to hydrogenated and degraded forms such as tetrahydrocortisone and tetrahydrocortisol which are excreted in the urine, mainly conjugated as glucuronides, together with a very small proportion of unchanged hydrocortisone.

The terminal half-life of hydrocortisone is about 1.5 hours following intravenous and oral dosing of hydrocortisone tablets and ALKINDI SPRINKLE in dexamethasone-suppressed healthy adult male volunteers.

No adequate studies in animals have been conducted with hydrocortisone to evaluate carcinogenic or mutagenic potential. Corticosteroids have been shown to impair fertility in male rats.