Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for

Dacepton contains apomorphine solution for injection. It is injected into the area under the skin (subcutaneously) by using only the dedicated D-mine-Pen. The active ingredient in Dacepton is apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate. There is 10 mg of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate in each millilitre of solution. Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate belongs to a group of medicines known as dopamine agonists. Dacepton is used to treat Parkinson's disease. Apomorphine helps to reduce the amount of time spent in an 'off' or immobile state in people who have previously been treated for Parkinson's disease with levodopa (another treatment for Parkinson's disease) and/or other dopamine agonists. Your doctor or nurse will help you to recognise the signs of when to use your medicine. Despite the name, apomorphine does not contain morphine.

2.

What you need to know before you take it

e Dacepton

Do NOT use Dacepton

  • if you are allergic to apomorphine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6).
  • if you are under 18 years of age
  • if you have breathing difficulties
  • if you have dementia or Alzheimer's disease
  • if you suffer from a mental illness with symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disordered thoughts, loss of contact with reality
  • if you have liver problems
  • if you have severe dyskinesia (involuntary movements) or severe dystonia (inability to move) despite taking levodopa

–

if you or someone in your family are known to have an abnormality of electrocardiogram (ECG) called "long QT syndrome". Tell your doctor. if you are taking ondansetron (medicine to treat nausea and vomiting)

Warnings and precautions Before you use Dacepton: your doctor will obtain an ECG (electrocardiogram) and will ask for a list of all other medicines you take. This ECG will be repeated in the first days of your treatment and at any point if your doctor thinks this is needed. He or she will also ask you about other diseases you may have, in particular concerning your heart. Some of the questions and investigations may be repeated at each medical visit. If you experience symptoms which may come from the heart, e.g. palpitations, fainting, or near-fainting, you should report this to your doctor immediately. Also if you experience diarrhoea or start a new medication, this should be reported to your doctor. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before using Dacepton:

  • if you have kidney problems
  • if you have lung problems
  • if you have heart problems
  • if you have low blood pressure or feel faint and dizzy when you stand
  • if you are taking any medicines to treat high blood pressure
  • if you feel sick or suffer from being sick
  • if your Parkinson's disease causes certain mental problems such as hallucinations and confusion
  • if you are elderly or frail Tell your doctor if you or your family/carer notices that you are developing urges or cravings to behave in ways that are unusual for you and you cannot resist the impulse, drive or temptation to carry out certain activities that could harm yourself or others. These are called impulse control disorders and can include behaviours such as addictive gambling, excessive eating or spending, an abnormally high sex drive or an increase in sexual thoughts or feelings. Your doctor may need to adjust or stop your dose. Some patients develop addiction-like symptoms leading to craving for large doses of Dacepton and other medicines used to treat Parkinson`s disease. Children and adolescents Dacepton must not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.

Other medicines and Dacepton Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using, have recently used or might use any other medicines. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking your medicine If you are using medicines that are known to affect the way your heart beats. This includes medicines used for heart rhythm problems (such as quinidine and amiodarone), for depression (including tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and imipramine) and for bacterial infections ('macrolide' antibiotics such as erythromycin, azithromycin and clarithromycin) and domperidone. If you are taking ondansetron (medicine to treat nausea and vomiting), as this may result in severe drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. If you use Dacepton with other medicines the effect of those medicines may be altered. This is especially true for:

  • Medicines such as clozapine to treat some mental disorders
  • Medicines to lower your blood pressure
  • Other medicines for Parkinson's disease Your doctor will tell you if you need to change the dose of your apomorphine or any of your other medicines.

If you are taking levodopa (another medicine for Parkinson's disease) as well as apomorphine your doctor should check your blood regularly. Dacepton with food and drink Food and drink do not affect the way Dacepton will work.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. Dacepton should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. It is not known whether Dacepton is transferred to breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or intend to breast-feed. Your doctor will explain to you, whether you should continue/discontinue breast-feeding or continue/discontinue taking this medicine. Driving and using machines Dacepton can cause drowsiness and a strong desire to sleep. Do not drive or use any tools or machinery if Dacepton affects you in this way. Dacepton contains sodium metabisulphite Sodium metabisulphite can rarely cause a severe allergic reaction with symptoms such as rash or itchy skin, difficulty breathing, puffiness of the eyelids, face or lips, swelling or redness of the tongue. If you experience these side effects, immediately go to the nearest hospital casualty department. Dacepton contains less than 1 mmol (23mg) of sodium (23 mg) per 10 ml, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.

3.

How to take it

Dacepton

Always use Dacepton exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you are not sure. Before you use <apomorphine>, your doctor will ensure that you tolerate the medicine and an antiemetic medicine that you need to use simultaneously. Domperidone should be taken at least 2 days before Dacepton is started to stop you feeling or being sick. Do not use Dacepton if the solution has turned green. the solution is cloudy or you can see particles in it. How much to use The amount of Dacepton you should use and the number of injections required each day will depend upon your personal needs. Your doctor will discuss this with you and tell you how much of your medicine you should inject and how often. The amount that will work best for you will have been determined during your visit to the specialist clinic.

  • The usual daily dose is between 3 mg and 30 mg.
  • You may need as much as 100 mg per day.
  • Typically, you will need between 1 and 10 injections each day.
  • Each single injection should not be more than 10 mg.

The D-mine Pen that is required for the application of Dacepton solution for injection in cartridge is not suitable for patients needing doses above 6 mg per injection. For these patients, other products have to be used. There is no need to dilute Dacepton before use. In addition, it must not be mixed with other medicines. • •

Your doctor will tell you what dose of Dacepton to use and how often you should use it. Your doctor will also tell you how to change your dose of Dacepton, if needed. Do not change your dose of Dacepton or use it more often unless your doctor has told you to. You and your caregivers will receive detailed instructions in the preparation and injection of doses from your doctor, with particular attention paid to the correct use of the required dosing pen.

Before using Dacepton Note: This pack does NOT include the pen or pen needles. Dacepton cartridges are designed to be used only with the dedicated D-mine Pen and disposable penneedles as specified in the Instructions for Use of the pen.

Description of the pen

• • •

Always use a new needle for each injection to prevent contamination. Needles and pen must not be shared. Before using Dacepton, study your pen and the pen manual to familiarise yourself with the correct handling. If your pen is damaged or not working properly (due to mechanical defects), please refer to the Instructions for Use of the pen.

Where and how to inject Dacepton

  • First wash your hands.
  • Before using the pen you will need some surgical wipes and one needle in its protective cone.
  • Follow the instructions in your pen manual.

Pen preparation / changing cartridge Take your pen out of its case and remove the pen cap.

Remove the cartridge sleeve by twisting it clockwise.

Insert the new cartridge into the cartridge sleeve.

Push the threaded rod back completely. This is best performed using your finger tip.

Push the cartridge sleeve into the housing and turn anti-clockwise to lock.

Attachment of pen needle Follow the instructions for use of your pen needle. Pull off the peel foil.

Click on / twist on the pen needle to the cartridge sleeve.

Remove the outer needle protective cap. Keep the outer needle protective cap to safely remove and dispose of the pen needle after use.

Remove and dispose the inner needle protective cap.

Priming / function check Remove any remaining air in your cartridge before use. Dial the test dose forward by turning the dosage wheel. Check the dialed dose by looking vertically from above and not at an angle onto the display, so that the symbol "" is clearly displayed. This is called "priming" and is important because it ensures you get a full dose when you use your pen.

For the function check, hold your pen pointing upwards and gently tap the cartridge sleeve, so that the air can rise to the top.

Press the push-button.

A few drops of medicine will emerge from the pen needle tip. If no drops emerge, repeat the step.

Setting the dose Dial your required dose by turning the dosage wheel clockwise. Correct your dose by turning in anti-clockwise direction.

Injection • •

Using a surgical wipe, clean the area of skin where you plan to inject the medicine and around it. Inject Dacepton into an injection site on the front of your waist (abdomen) or your outer thighs under the skin (subcutaneously) as shown by your doctor or nurse.

Press the push-button in fully for injection. Hold the push-button fully down during medication discharge. After your medication has been completely discharged, wait for 6 seconds and then pull out your pen needle slowly. You may either keep the push-button pressed or release it during the 6 seconds. Check that the display is at the "0,0" position to confirm full dose delivery.

• •

Change the injection site each time Dacepton is used. This will lower your chances of having a skin reaction at the site where you inject Dacepton. Do not inject Dacepton into an area of skin that is sore, red, infected or damaged. You must never inject yourself directly into a vein (intravenously) or muscle (intramuscularly).

After using Dacepton Remove and discard the needle after each injection (for safe disposal see section 5).

Removal of pen needle after each injection Carefully attach the outer needle protective cap on the pen needle.

Twist off the pen needle by turning the outer shield clockwise and dispose it correctly.

Optional: Place the outer pen needle shield in the appropriate left notch of your carrying case. The opening of the needle shield should be pointing up. Carefully insert the needle (attached to your pen) into the opening of the shield. Without holding onto the shield, push down firmly and turn counter-clockwise to twist off the pen needle.

Attach the pen cap securely after each use.

• • • •

Leave the cartridge in your pen. A new cartridge can be used for up to 15 days (for more information please refer to 5. "How to store Dacepton") If there is not enough solution left for your next dose, remove and discard the cartridge. Dispose of the needle safely, as described in the Instructions for Use of your pen.

If you use more Dacepton than you should

  • Tell your doctor or contact your nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
  • You may experience a slow heart rate, excessive sickness, excessive sleepiness and/or difficulty breathing. You may also feel faint or dizzy particularly when you stand up, due to low blood pressure. Lying down and raising your feet may help you to treat low blood pressure. If you forget to use Dacepton Use it when you next require it. Do not use a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you stop using Dacepton Do not stop using Dacepton without first talking with your doctor. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

4.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you experience an allergic reaction stop taking Dacepton 10 mg/ml and contact a doctor or your nearest hospital emergency department immediately. The signs of an allergic reaction may include: rash breathing difficulties or tightness of the chest, puffiness of eyelids, face or lips, swelling or redness of the throat or tongue. Dacepton may sometimes cause the following side effects: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

  • Lumps under the skin at the site of injection which are sore, troublesome and may be red and itchy. In order to avoid getting these lumps, it is advisable to change the site of injection every time you insert the needle.
  • Hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there) Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
  • Feeling sick or being sick, particularly when starting Dacepton. lf you are taking domperidone and still feel sick, or if you are not taking domperidone and you have sickness, tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible
  • Feeling tired or extremely sleepy
  • Confusion or hallucinations
  • Yawning
  • Feeling dizzy or light-headed when standing up Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
  • Increased involuntary movements or increased shakiness during 'on' periods
  • Haemolytic anaemia, an abnormal breakdown of red blood cells in the blood vessels or elsewhere in the body. This is an uncommon side effect that can occur in patients also taking levodopa.
  • Suddenly falling asleep
  • Rashes
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Injection site ulceration
  • Reduction in red blood cells which can make the skin pale yellow and cause weakness or breathlessness
  • Reduction in blood platelets, which increases the risk of bleeding or bruising Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): An allergic reaction
  • Eosinophilia, an abnormally high amount of white blood cells in the blood or in body tissues. Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data):
  • Swelling of the legs, feet or fingers
  • Fainting
  • Aggression, agitation
  • Headache
  • Inability to resist the impulse, drive or temptation to perform an action that could be harmful to you or others, which may include: o Strong impulse to gamble excessively despite serious personal or family consequences.

o o o

Altered or increased sexual interest and behaviour of significant concern to you or to others, for example, an increased sexual drive. Uncontrollable excessive shopping or spending Binge eating (eating large amounts of food in a short time period) or compulsive eating (eating more food than normal and more than is needed to satisfy your hunger)

Tell your doctor if you experience any of these behaviors; she or he will discuss ways of managing or reducing the symptoms Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme (Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard). By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5.

How to store it

Dacepton

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and label after "EXP". The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not store above 25°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep the cartridge in the outer carton in order to protect from light. Store at the same conditions after opening and between withdrawals. When you start using a new cartridge, it can be used for up to 15 days. Do not re-use the cartridge after this time. Use a new cartridge. Do not use this medicine if you notice that the solution has turned green. It should only be used if the solution is clear, colourless to slightly yellow and free of particles. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment.

6.

Contents of the pack and further information

What Dacepton contains The active substance is apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate. Each millilitre of Dacepton contains 10 mg of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate. Dacepton is available in 3 ml cartridges containing 30 mg of apomorphine hydrochloride. The other ingredients are:

  • Sodium metabisulphite (E223)
  • Hydrochloric acid (for pH-adjustment)
  • Sodium hydroxide (for pH-adjustment)
  • Water for Injections Refer to section 2, "Dacepton contains sodium metabisulphite", regarding sodium metabisulphite. What Dacepton looks like and contents of the pack

Dacepton is a clear, colourless to slightly yellow solution for injection, free of particles, in a clear glass cartridge with a bromobutyl rubber stopper and an aluminium cap with bromobutyl/synthetic polyisoprene rubber seal. Each cartridge contains 3 ml solution for injection. Packs contain 5, 10 or 30 cartridges. Bundle packs: 2 x 5, 6 x 5 and 3 x 10 of 3 ml cartridges in a moulded plastic tray in an outer cardboard carton. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder EVER Pharma UK Ltd Bloxham Mill Barford Road Bloxham Oxfordshire OX15 4FF Manufacturer EVER Neuro Pharma GmbH Oberburgau 3 4866 Unterach am Attersee Austria EVER Pharma Jena GmbH Otto-Schott-Strasse 15 07745 Jena Germany EVER Pharma Jena GmbH Brüsseler Strasse 18 07747 Jena Germany This medicine is authorised in the Member States of the European Economic Area and in the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) under the following names: AT

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml Injektionslösung in einer Patrone

BE

Dacepton® 10 mg /ml oplossing voor injectie in een patroon

BG

Дацептон® 10 mg/ml инжекционен разтвор в патрон

CZ

Dacepton®

DE

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml Injektionslösung in einer Patrone

DK

Dacepton®

ES

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml solución inyectable en cartucho EFG

FI

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml injektioneste, liuos, sylinteriampulli

FR

Dopaceptin® 10 mg /ml Solution injectable en cartouche

GR

Dopaceptin® 10 mg/ml ενέσιμο διάλυμα σε φυσίγγιο

HR

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml otopina za injekciju u ulošku

HU

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml oldatos injekció patronban

IE

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge

IT

Dopaceptin® 10 mg/ml soluzione iniettabile in cartuccia

LU

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml Solution injectable en cartouche

NL

Dacepton® 10 mg /ml oplossing voor injectie in een patroon

NO

Dacepton®

PL

Dacepton® 10 mg /ml roztwór do wstrzykiwań we wkładzie

PT

Dacepton® 10mg/ml solução injetável em cartucho

SE

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml injektionsvätska, lösning i cylinderampull

SI

Dacepton® 10 mg/ml raztopina za injiciranje v vložku

SK

Dacepton® 10mg/ml Injekčný roztok v náplni

UK

Dacepton® 10 mg /ml solution for injection in cartridge

This leaflet was last revised in 11/2023

Frequently asked questions about Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge

How do I take Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge?

Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge comes as injection containing 10mg/ml. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge?

The active substance in Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge is apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate.

Are there equivalent medicines to Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: APO-go AMPOULES 10mg/ml Solution for Injection or Infusion, APO-go Pen 10mg/ml Solution for Injection. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate (3 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Treatment of motor fluctuations (“on-off” phenomena) in patients with Parkinson's disease which are not sufficiently controlled by oral anti-Parkinson medication.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Selection of patients suitable for Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge:

Patients selected for treatment with Dacepton should be able to recognise the onset of their ”off” symptoms and be capable of injecting themselves or else have a responsible carer able to inject for them when required.

Patients treated with apomorphine will usually need to start domperidone at least two days prior to initiation of therapy. The domperidone dose should be titrated to the lowest effective dose and discontinued as soon as possible. Before the decision to initiate domperidone and apomorphine treatment, risk factors for QT interval prolongation in the individual patient should be carefully assessed to ensure that the benefit outweighs the risk (see section 4.4).

Apomorphine should be initiated in the controlled environment of a specialist clinic. The patient should be supervised by a physician experienced in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (e.g. neurologist). The patient's treatment with levodopa, with or without dopamine agonists, should be optimised before starting treatment with Dacepton.

Adults

Method of administration

Dacepton solution for injection in cartridge is intended for multidose use by subcutaneous intermittent bolus injection using only the dedicated D-mine-Pen.

Patients and caregivers must receive detailed instructions in the preparation and injection of doses, with particular attention paid to the correct use of the required dosing pen (see instructions for use included with the dosing pen). There are differences in the dosing pen of this product and other apomorphine products on the market. Therefore when a patient has received a particular pen and is trained on it, a switch to a different product should be accompanied by re-training under the supervision of a health care professional.

Any remaining air in the cartridge should be removed before use (see Instructions for Use of the dosing pen).

Apomorphine must not be used via the intravenous route.

Do not use if the solution has turned green. The solution should be inspected visually prior to use. Only clear, colourless to slightly yellow and free of particles solution should be used.

Determination of the threshold dose

The appropriate dose for each patient is established by incremental dosing schedules. The following schedule is suggested:

1 mg of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate (0.1 ml), that is approximately 15-20 micrograms/kg, may be injected subcutaneously during a hypokinetic, or ”off” period and the patient is observed over 30 minutes for a motor response.

If no response, or an inadequate response, is obtained a second dose of 2 mg of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate (0.2 ml) is injected subcutaneously and the patient observed for an adequate response for a further 30 minutes.

The dosage may be increased by incremental injections with at least a forty minute interval between succeeding injections until a satisfactory motor response is obtained.

Establishment of treatment

Once the appropriate dose is determined a single subcutaneous injection may be given into the lower abdomen or outer thigh at the first signs of an 'off' episode. It cannot be excluded that absorption may differ with different injection sites within a single individual. Accordingly, the patient should then be observed for the next hour to assess the quality of their response to treatment. Alterations in dosage may be made according to the patient's response.

The optimal dosage of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate varies between individuals but, once established, remains relatively constant for each patient.

Precautions on continuing treatment

The daily dose of Dacepton varies widely between patients, typically within the range of 3-30 mg, given as 1-10 injections and sometimes as many as 12 separate injections per day.

It is recommended that the total daily dose of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate should not exceed 100 mg and that individual bolus injections should not exceed 10 mg.

The D-mine Pen that is required for the application of Dacepton solution for injection in cartridge is not suitable for patients needing doses above 6 mg/bolus.

For these patients, other products have to be used.

In clinical studies it has usually been possible to make some reduction in the dose of levodopa; this effect varies considerably between patients and needs to be carefully managed by an experienced physician.

Once treatment has been established, domperidone therapy may be gradually reduced in some patients but successfully eliminated only in a few, without any vomiting or hypotension.

Paediatric population

Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge is contraindicated for children and adolescents under 18 years of age (see section 4.3).

Elderly

The elderly are well represented in the population of patients with Parkinson's disease and constitute a high proportion of those studied in clinical trials of apomorphine. The management of elderly patients treated with apomorphine has not differed from that of younger patients. However, extra caution is recommended during initiation of therapy in elderly patients because of the risk of postural hypotension.

Renal impairment

A dose schedule similar to that recommended for adults, and the elderly, can be followed for patients with renal impairment (see section 4.4).

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

In patients with respiratory depression, dementia, psychotic diseases or hepatic insufficiency.

Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate must not be administered to patients who have an “on” response to levodopa which is marred by severe dyskinesia or dystonia.

Concomitant use with ondansetron (see section 4.5)

Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection is contraindicated for children and adolescents under 18 years of age.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate should be given with caution to patients with renal, pulmonary or cardiovascular disease and persons prone to nausea and vomiting.

Extra caution is recommended during initiation of therapy in elderly and/or debilitated patients.

Since apomorphine may produce hypotension, even when given with domperidone pre-treatment, care should be exercised in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease or in patients taking vasoactive medicinal products such as antihypertensives, and especially in patients with pre-existing postural hypotension.

Since apomorphine, especially at high dose, may have the potential for QT prolongation, caution should be exercised when treating patients at risk for torsades de pointes arrhythmia.

When used in combination with domperidone, risk factors in the individual patient should be carefully assessed. This should be done before treatment initiation, and during treatment. Important risk factors include serious underlying heart conditions such as congestive cardiac failure, severe hepatic impairment or significant electrolyte disturbance. Also medication possibly affecting electrolyte balance, CYP3A4 metabolism or QT interval should be assessed. Monitoring for an effect on the QTc interval is advisable. An ECG should be performed:

- prior to treatment with domperidone

- during the treatment initiation phase

- as clinically indicated thereafter

The patient should be instructed to report possible cardiac symptoms including palpitations, syncope, or near-syncope. They should also report clinical changes that could lead to hypokalaemia, such as gastroenteritis or the initiation of diuretic therapy.

At each medical visit, risk factors should be revisited.

Apomorphine is associated with local subcutaneous effects. These can sometimes be reduced by the rotation of injection sites or possibly by the use of ultrasound (if available) in order to avoid areas of nodularity and induration.

Haemolytic anaemia and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients treated with apomorphine. Haematology tests should be undertaken at regular intervals as with levodopa, when given concomitantly with apomorphine.

Caution is advised when combining apomorphine with other medicinal products, especially those with a narrow therapeutic range (see section 4.5).

Neuropsychiatric problems co-exist in many patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. There is evidence that for some patients neuropsychiatric disturbances may be exacerbated by apomorphine. Special care should be exercised when apomorphine is used in these patients.

Apomorphine has been associated with somnolence, and episodes of sudden sleep onset, particularly in patients with Parkinson's disease. Patients must be informed of this and advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines during treatment with apomorphine. Patients who have experienced somnolence and/or an episode of sudden sleep onset must refrain from driving or operating machines. Furthermore, a reduction of dos age or termination of therapy may be considered.

Impulse control disorders

Patients should be regularly monitored for the development of impulse control disorders. Patients and carers should be made aware that behavioural symptoms of impulse control disorders including pathological gambling, increased libido, hypersexuality, compulsive spending or buying, binge eating and compulsive eating can occur in patients treated with dopamine agonists including apomorphine. Dose reduction/tapered discontinuation should be considered if such symptoms develop.

Dopamine dysregulation Syndrome (DDS) is an addictive disorder resulting in excessive use of the product seen in some patients treated with apomorphine. Before initiation of treatment, patients and caregivers should be warned of the potential risk of developing DDS.

Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge contains sodium metabisulphite which may rarely cause severe hypersensitivity reactions and bronchospasm.

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per 10 ml, i.e. essentially “sodium-free”.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Patients selected for treatment with apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate are almost certain to be taking concomitant medications for their Parkinson's disease. In the initial stages of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate therapy, the patient should be monitored for unusual side-effects or signs of potentiation of effect.

Neuroleptic medicinal products may have an antagonistic effect if used with apomorphine. There is a potential interaction between clozapine and apomorphine, however clozapine may also be used to reduce the symptoms of neuropsychiatric complications.

The possible effects of apomorphine on the plasma concentrations of other medicinal products have not been studied. Therefore caution is advised when combining apomorphine with other medicinal products, especially those with a narrow therapeutic range.

Antihypertensive and Cardiac Active Medicinal Products

Even when co-administered with domperidone, apomorphine may potentiate the antihypertensive effects of these medicinal products (see section 4.4)

It is recommended to avoid the administration of apomorphine with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval.

Concomitant use of apomorphine with ondansetron may lead to severe hypotension and loss of consciousness and is therefore contraindicated (see section 4.3). Such effects might also occur with other 5-HT3 antagonists.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

There is no experience of apomorphine usage in pregnant women.

Animal reproduction studies do not indicate any teratogenic effects, but doses given to rats which are toxic to the mother can lead to failure to breathe in the newborn. The potential risk for humans is unknown. See section 5.3.

Dacepton should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether apomorphine is excreted in breast milk. A decision on whether to continue/discontinue breast-feeding or to continue/discontinue therapy with Dacepton should be made taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding to the child and the benefit of Dacepton to the woman.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate has minor or moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines.

Patients being treated with apomorphine and presenting with somnolence and/or sudden sleep episodes must be informed to refrain from driving or engaging in activities (e.g. operating machines) where impaired alertness may put themselves or others at risk of serious injury or death until such recurrent episodes and somnolence have resolved (see also section 4.4).

4.8. Undesirable effects

Very common

(≥1/10)

Common

(≥1/100 to <1/10)

Uncommon

(≥1/1,000 to <1/100)

Rare

(≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000)

Very rare

(<1/10,000)

Not known

(cannot be estimated from the available data)

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

Uncommon:

Haemolytic anaemia and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients treated with apomorphine.

Rare:

Eosinophilia has rarely occurred during treatment with apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate.

Immune system disorders

Rare:

Due to the presence of sodium metabisulphite, allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis and bronchospasm) may occur.

Psychiatric disorders

Very common:

Hallucinations

Common:

Neuropsychiatric disturbances (including transient mild confusion and visual hallucinations) have occurred during apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate therapy.

Not known:

Impulse control disorders:

Pathological gambling, increased libido, hypersexuality, compulsive spending or buying, binge eating and compulsive eating can occur in patients treated with dopamine agonists including apomorphine (see section 4.4).

Aggression, agitation.

Nervous system disorders

Common:

Transient sedation with each dose of apomorphine hydrochloride hemihydrate at the start of therapy may occur; this usually resolves over the first few weeks.

Apomorphine is associated with somnolence.

Dizziness/light-headedness have also been reported.

Uncommon:

Apomorphine may induce dyskinesias during “on” periods which can be severe in some cases, and in a few patients may result in cessation of therapy.

Apomorphine has been associated with sudden sleep onset episodes (see section 4.4)

Unknown:

Syncope

Headache

Vascular disorders

Uncommon:

Postural hypotension is seen infrequently and is usually transient (see section 4.4)

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Common:

Yawning has been reported during apomorphine therapy

Uncommon:

Breathing difficulties have been reported.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Common:

Nausea and vomiting, particularly when apomorphine treatment is first initiated, usually as a result of the omission of domperidone (see section 4.2).

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Uncommon:

Local and generalised rashes have been reported.

General disorders and administration site conditions

Very common:

Most patients experience injection site reactions, particularly with continuous use. These may include subcutaneous nodules, induration, erythema, tenderness and panniculitis. Various other local reactions (such as irritation, itching, bruising and pain) may also occur.

Uncommon:

Injection site necrosis and ulceration have been reported.

Not Known:

Peripheral oedema has been reported.

Investigations

Uncommon:

Positive Coombs' tests have been reported for patients receiving apomorphine.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via UK Yellow Card Scheme, Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine..

4.9. Overdose

There is little clinical experience of overdose with apomorphine by this route of administration. Symptoms of overdose may be treated empirically as suggested below:

Excessive emesis may be treated with domperidone.

Respiratory depression may be treated with naloxone.

Hypotension: appropriate measures should be taken, e.g. raising the foot of the bed.

Bradycardia may be treated with atropine.

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Ask anything about Dacepton 10 mg/ml solution for injection in cartridge. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

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