4.1. Therapeutic indications

Multiple myeloma

Lenalidomide Grindeks as monotherapy is indicated for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) who have undergone autologous stem cell transplantation.

Lenalidomide Grindeks as combination therapy with dexamethasone, or bortezomib and dexamethasone, or melphalan and prednisone (see section 4.2) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated multiple myeloma who are not eligible for transplant.

Lenalidomide Grindeks in combination with dexamethasone is indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma in adult patients who have received at least one prior therapy.

Follicular lymphoma

Lenalidomide Grindeks in combination with rituximab (anti-CD20 antibody) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma (Grade 1 – 3a).

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Lenalidomide Grindeks treatment should be supervised by a physician experienced in the use of anti-cancer therapies.

For all indications described below:

• Dose is modified based upon clinical and laboratory findings (see section 4.4).

• Dose adjustments, during treatment and restart of treatment, are recommended to manage Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, or other Grade 3 or 4 toxicity judged to be related to lenalidomide.

• In case of neutropenia, the use of growth factors in patient management should be considered.

• If less than 12 hours has elapsed since missing a dose, the patient can take the dose. If more than 12 hours has elapsed since missing a dose at the normal time, the patient should not take the dose, but take the next dose at the normal time on the following day.

Posology

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM)

• Lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone until disease progression in patients who are not eligible for transplant

Lenalidomide treatment must not be started if the Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) is < 1.0 x 109/L, and/or platelet counts are < 50 x 109/L.

Recommended dose

The recommended starting dose of lenalidomide is 25 mg orally once daily on days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles.

The recommended dose of dexamethasone is 40 mg orally once daily on days 1, 8, 15 and 22 of repeated 28-day cycles. Patients may continue lenalidomide and dexamethasone therapy until disease progression or intolerance.

• Dose reduction steps

Lenalidomide a

Dexamethasone a

Starting dose

25 mg

40 mg

Dose level -1

20 mg

20 mg

Dose level -2

15 mg

12 mg

Dose level -3

10 mg

8 mg

Dose level -4

5 mg

4 mg

Dose level -5

2.5 mg

Not applicable

a Dose reduction for both products can be managed independently

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

Falls to < 25 x 109/L

Stop lenalidomide dosing for remainder of cycle a

Returns to ≥ 50 x 109/L

Decrease by one dose level when dosing resumed at next cycle

a If Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) occurs on > day 15 of a cycle, lenalidomide dosing will be interrupted for at least the remainder of the current 28-day cycle.

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) – neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended course a

First falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 1 x 109/L when neutropenia is the only observed toxicity

Resume lenalidomide at starting dose once daily

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when dose-dependent haematological toxicities other than neutropenia are observed

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily.

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide.

For hematologic toxicity the dose of lenalidomide may be re-introduced to the next higher dose level (up to the starting dose) upon improvement in bone marrow function (no hematologic toxicity for at least 2 consecutive cycles: ANC ≥ 1.5 x 109/L with a platelet count ≥ 100 x 109/L at the beginning of a new cycle).

• Lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone followed by lenalidomide and dexamethasone until disease progression in patients who are not eligible for transplant

Initial treatment: Lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone

Lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone must not be started if the ANC is < 1.0 x 109/L, and/or platelet counts are < 50 x 109/L.

The recommended starting dose is lenalidomide 25 mg orally once daily days 1-14 of each 21-day cycle in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone. Bortezomib should be administered via subcutaneous injection (1.3 mg/m2 body surface area) twice weekly on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 of each 21-day. For additional information on the dose, schedule and dose adjustments of medicinal products administered with lenalidomide, see Section 5.1 and the corresponding Summary of Product Characteristics.

Up to eight 21-day treatment cycles (24 weeks of initial treatment) are recommended.

Continued treatment: Lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone until progression

Continue lenalidomide 25 mg orally once daily on days 1-21 of repeated 28-day cycles in combination with dexamethasone. Treatment should be continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

• Dose reduction steps

Lenalidomidea

Starting dose

25 mg

Dose level -1

20 mg

Dose level -2

15 mg

Dose level -3

10 mg

Dose level- 4

5 mg

Dose level -5

2.5 mg

ª Dose reduction for all products can be managed independently

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

Falls to < 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 50 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 50 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) - neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended coursea

First falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 1 x 109/L when neutropenia is the only observed toxicity

Resume lenalidomide at starting dose once daily

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when dose-dependent haematological toxicities other than neutropenia are observed

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily.

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide.

• Lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone followed by lenalidomide maintenance in patients who are not eligible for transplant

Lenalidomide treatment must not be started if the ANC is < 1.5 x 109/L, and/or platelet counts are < 75 x 109/L.

Recommended dose

The recommended starting dose is lenalidomide 10 mg orally once daily on days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles for up to 9 cycles, melphalan 0.18 mg/kg orally on days 1 to 4 of repeated 28-day cycles, prednisone 2 mg/kg orally on days 1 to 4 of repeated 28-day cycles. Patients who complete 9 cycles or who are unable to complete the combination therapy due to intolerance are treated with lenalidomide monotherapy as follows: 10 mg orally once daily on days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles given until disease progression.

• Dose reduction steps

Lenalidomide

Melphalan

Prednisone

Starting dose

10 mga

0.18 mg/kg

2 mg/kg

Dose level -1

7.5 mg

0.14 mg/kg

1 mg/kg

Dose level -2

5 mg

0.10 mg/kg

0.5 mg/kg

Dose level -3

2.5 mg

Not applicable

0.25 mg/kg

a If neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide.

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

First falls to < 25 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 25 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide and melphalan at dose level -1

For each subsequent drop below 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 30 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level (dose level -2 or -3) once daily

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) - neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended coursea

First falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when neutropenia is the only observed toxicity

Resume lenalidomide at starting dose once daily

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when dose-dependent haematological toxicities other than neutropenia are observed

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily.

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide

• Lenalidomide maintenance in patients who have undergone autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT)

Lenalidomide maintenance should be initiated after adequate haematologic recovery following ASCT in patients without evidence of progression. Lenalidomide must not be started if the ANC is < 1.0 x 109/L, and/or platelet counts are < 75 x 109/L.

Recommended dose

The recommended starting dose is lenalidomide 10 mg orally once daily continuously (on days 1 to 28 of repeated 28-day cycles) given until disease progression or intolerance. After 3 cycles of lenalidomide maintenance, the dose can be increased to 15 mg orally once daily if tolerated.

• Dose reduction steps

Starting dose (10 mg)

If dose increased (15 mg)a

Dose level -1

5 mg

10 mg

Dose level -2

5 mg (days 1-21 every 28 days)

5 mg

Dose level -3

Not applicable

5 mg (days 1-21 every 28 days)

Do not dose below 5 mg (days 1-21 every 28 days)

a After 3 cycles of lenalidomide maintenance, the dose can be increased to 15 mg orally once daily if tolerated.

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

Falls to < 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 30 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 30 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) - neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended coursea

Falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level once daily

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide.

Multiple myeloma with at least one prior therapy

Lenalidomide treatment must not be started if the ANC < 1.0 x 109/L, and/or platelet counts < 75 x 109/L or, dependent on bone marrow infiltration by plasma cells, platelet counts < 30 x 109/L.

Recommended dose

The recommended starting dose of lenalidomide is 25 mg orally once daily on days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles. The recommended dose of dexamethasone is 40 mg orally once daily on days 1 to 4, 9 to 12, and 17 to 20 of each 28-day cycle for the first 4 cycles of therapy and then 40 mg once daily on days 1 to 4 every 28 days.

Prescribing physicians should carefully evaluate which dose of dexamethasone to use, taking into account the condition and disease status of the patient.

• Dose reduction steps

Starting dose

25 mg

Dose level -1

15 mg

Dose level -2

10 mg

Dose level -3

5 mg

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

First falls to < 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 30 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1

For each subsequent drop below 30 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 30 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level (dose level -2 or -3) once daily. Do not dose below 5 mg once daily.

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) - neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended coursea

First falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when neutropenia is the only observed toxicity

Resume lenalidomide at starting dose once daily

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L when dose-dependent haematological toxicities other than neutropenia are observed

Resume lenalidomide at dose level -1 once daily

For each subsequent drop below < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment

Returns to ≥ 0.5 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level (dose level -1, -2 or -3) once daily. Do not dose below 5 mg once daily.

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and maintain the dose level of lenalidomide.

Follicular lymphoma (FL)

Lenalidomide treatment must not be started if the ANC is < 1 x 109/L, and/or platelet count < 50 x 109/L, unless secondary to lymphoma infiltration of bone marrow.

Recommended dose

The recommended starting dose of lenalidomide is 20 mg, orally once daily on days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles for up to 12 cycles of treatment. The recommended starting dose of rituximab is 375 mg/m2 intravenously (IV) every week in Cycle 1 (days 1, 8, 15, and 22) and day 1 of every 28-day cycle for cycles 2 through 5.

• Dose reduction steps

Starting dose

20 mg once daily on days 1-21, every 28 days

Dose level -1

15 mg once daily on days 1-21, every 28 days

Dose level -2

10 mg once daily on days 1-21, every 28 days

Dose level -3

5 mg once daily on days 1-21, every 28 days

For dose adjustments due to toxicity with rituximab, refer to the corresponding summary of product characteristics.

• Thrombocytopenia

When platelets

Recommended course

Falls to < 50 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment and conduct CBC at least every 7 days

Returns to ≥ 50 x 109/L

Resume at next lower dose level (dose level -1)

For each subsequent drop below 50 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment and conduct CBC at least every 7 days

Returns to ≥ 50 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level (dose level -2 or -3). Do not dose below dose level -3.

• Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) - neutropenia

When ANC

Recommended coursea

Falls to < 1.0 x 109/L for at least 7 days or

Falls to < 1.0 x 109/L with associated fever (body temperature ≥ 38.5°C) or

Falls to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment and conduct CBC at least every 7 days

Returns to ≥ 1.0 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at the next lower dose level (dose level -1)

For each subsequent drop below 1.0 x 109/L for at least 7 days or drop to < 1.0 x 109/L with associated fever (body temperature ≥ 38.5°C) or drop to < 0.5 x 109/L

Interrupt lenalidomide treatment and conduct CBC at least every 7 days

Returns to ≥ 1.0 x 109/L

Resume lenalidomide at next lower dose level (dose level -2, -3). Do not dose below dose level -3

a At the physician's discretion, if neutropenia is the only toxicity at any dose level, add G-CSF

Follicular lymphoma (FL)

Tumour lysis syndrome (TLS)

All patients should receive TLS prophylaxis (allopurinol, rasburicase or equivalent as per institutional guidelines) and be well hydrated (orally) during the first week of the first cycle or for a longer period if clinically indicated. To monitor for TLS, patients should have a chemistry panel drawn weekly during the first cycle and as clinically indicated.

Lenalidomide may be continued (maintain dose) in patients with laboratory TLS or Grade 1 clinical TLS, or at the physician's discretion, reduce dose by one level and continue lenalidomide. Vigorous intravenous hydration should be provided and appropriate medical management according to the local standard of care, until correction of electrolyte abnormalities. Rasburicase therapy may be needed to reduce hyperuricaemia. Hospitalisation of the patient will be at physician's discretion.

In patients with Grade 2 to 4 clinical TLS, interrupt lenalidomide and obtain a chemistry panel weekly or as clinically indicated. Vigorous intravenous hydration should be provided and appropriate medical management according to the local standard of care, until correction of electrolyte abnormalities. Rasburicase therapy and hospitalisation will be at physician's discretion. When the TLS resolves to Grade 0, restart lenalidomide at next lower dose per physician's discretion (see section 4.4).

Tumour flare reaction

At the physician's discretion, lenalidomide may be continued in patients with Grade 1 or 2 tumour flare reaction (TFR) without interruption or modification. At the physician's discretion, therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), limited duration corticosteroids, and/or narcotic analgesics may be administered. In patients with Grade 3 or 4 TFR, withhold treatment with lenalidomide and initiate therapy with NSAIDs, corticosteroids and/or narcotic analgesics. When TFR resolves to ≤ Grade 1, restart lenalidomide treatment at the same dose level for the rest of the cycle. Patients may be treated for management of symptoms per the guidance for treatment of Grade 1 and 2 TFR (see section 4.4).

All indications

For other Grade 3 or 4 toxicities judged to be related to lenalidomide, treatment should be stopped and only restarted at next lower dose level when toxicity has resolved to ≤ Grade 2 depending on the physician´s discretion.

Lenalidomide interruption or discontinuation should be considered for Grade 2 or 3 skin rash. Lenalidomide must be discontinued for angioedema, anaphylactic reaction, Grade 4 rash, exfoliative or bullous rash, or if Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) or Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) is suspected, and should not be resumed following discontinuation from these reactions.

Special populations

• Paediatric population

Lenalidomide Grindeks should not be used in children and adolescents from birth to less than 18 years because of safety concerns (see section 5.1).

• Elderly

Currently available pharmacokinetic data are described in section 5.2. Lenalidomide has been used in clinical trials in multiple myeloma patients up to 91 years of age (see section 5.1).

Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection and it would be prudent to monitor renal function.

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant

Patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma aged 75 years and older should be carefully assessed before treatment is considered (see section 4.4).

For patients older than 75 years of age treated with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone, the starting dose of dexamethasone is 20 mg once daily on days 1, 8, 15 and 22 of each 28-day treatment cycle.

No dose adjustment is proposed for patients older than 75 years who are treated with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone.

In patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma aged 75 years and older who received lenalidomide, there was a higher incidence of serious adverse reactions and adverse reactions that led to treatment discontinuation.

Lenalidomide combined therapy was less tolerated in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients older than 75 years of age compared to the younger population. These patients discontinued at a higher rate due to intolerance (Grade 3 or 4 adverse events and serious adverse events), when compared to patients < 75 years.

Multiple myeloma: patients with at least one prior therapy

The percentage of multiple myeloma patients aged 65 or over was not significantly different between the lenalidomide/dexamethasone and placebo/dexamethasone groups. No overall difference in safety or efficacy was observed between these patients and younger patients, but greater pre-disposition of older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Follicular lymphoma

For follicular lymphoma patients treated with lenalidomide in combination with rituximab, the overall rate of adverse events is similar for patients aged 65 years or over compared with patients less than 65 years of age. No overall difference in efficacy was observed between the two age groups.

• Patients with renal impairment

Lenalidomide is primarily excreted by the kidney; patients with greater degrees of renal impairment can have impaired treatment tolerance (see section 4.4). Care should be taken in dose selection and monitoring of renal function is advised.

No dose adjustments are required for patients with mild renal impairment and multiple myeloma or follicular lymphoma.

The following dose adjustments are recommended at the start of therapy and throughout treatment for patients with moderate or severe impaired renal function or end stage renal disease.

There are no phase 3 trial experiences with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (CLcr < 30 mL/min, requiring dialysis).

Multiple myeloma

Renal function (CLcr)

Dose adjustment

Moderate renal impairment

(30 ≤ CLcr < 50mL/min)

10 mg once daily 1

Severe renal impairment

(CLcr < 30 mL/min, not requiring dialysis)

7.5 mg once daily 2

15 mg every other day

End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

(CLcr < 30 mL/min, requiring dialysis)

5 mg once daily. On dialysis days, the dose should be administered following dialysis.

1 The dose may be escalated to 15 mg once daily after 2 cycles if patient is not responding to treatment and is tolerating the treatment.

2 In countries where the 7.5 mg capsule is available.

Follicular lymphoma

Renal function (CLcr)

Dose adjustment

(days 1 to 21 of repeated 28-day cycles)

Moderate renal impairment

(30 ≤ CLcr < 60 mL/min)

10 mg once daily1,2

Severe renal impairment

(CLcr < 30 mL/min, not requiring dialysis)

No data available3

End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

(CLcr < 30 mL/min, requiring dialysis)

No data available3

1 The dose may be escalated to 15 mg once daily after 2 cycles if the patient tolerated therapy.

2 For patients on a starting dose of 10 mg, in case of dose reduction to manage Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, or other Grade 3 or 4. Toxicity judged to be related to lenalidomide do not dose below 5 mg every other day.

3 Patients with severe renal impairment or ESRD were excluded from study.

After initiation of lenalidomide therapy, subsequent lenalidomide dose modification in renally impaired patients should be based on individual patient treatment tolerance, as described above.

• Patients with hepatic impairment

Lenalidomide has not formally been studied in patients with impaired hepatic function and there are no specific dose recommendations.

Method of administration

Oral use.

Lenalidomide Grindeks capsules should be taken orally at about the same time on the scheduled days. The capsules should not be opened, broken or chewed. The capsules should be swallowed whole, preferably with water, either with or without food.

It is recommended to press only on one end of the capsule to remove it from the blister thereby reducing the risk of capsule deformation or breakage.

4.3. Contraindications

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

• Women who are pregnant.

• Women of childbearing potential unless all of the conditions of the Pregnancy Prevention Programme are met (see sections 4.4 and 4.6).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

When lenalidomide is given in combination with other medicinal products, the corresponding Summary of Product Characteristics must be consulted prior to initiation of treatment.

Pregnancy warning

Lenalidomide is structurally related to thalidomide. Thalidomide is a known human teratogenic active substance that causes severe life-threatening birth defects. Lenalidomide induced in monkeys malformations similar to those described with thalidomide (see sections 4.6 and 5.3). If lenalidomide is taken during pregnancy, a teratogenic effect of lenalidomide in humans is expected.

The conditions of the Pregnancy Prevention Programme must be fulfilled for all patients unless there is reliable evidence that the patient does not have childbearing potential.

Criteria for women of non-childbearing potential

A female patient or a female partner of a male patient is considered to have childbearing potential unless she meets at least one of the following criteria:

• Age ≥ 50 years and naturally amenorrhoeic for ≥ 1 year (Amenorrhoea following cancer therapy or during breast-feeding does not rule out childbearing potential).

• Premature ovarian failure confirmed by a specialist gynaecologist

• Previous bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, or hysterectomy

• XY genotype, Turner syndrome, uterine agenesis.

Counselling

For women of childbearing potential, lenalidomide is contraindicated unless all of the following are met:

• She understands the expected teratogenic risk to the unborn child

• She understands the need for effective contraception, without interruption, at least 4 weeks before starting treatment, throughout the entire duration of treatment, and at least 4 weeks after the end of treatment

• Even if a woman of childbearing potential has amenorrhea she must follow all the advice on effective contraception

• She should be capable of complying with effective contraceptive measures

• She is informed and understands the potential consequences of pregnancy and the need to rapidly consult if there is a risk of pregnancy

• She understands the need to commence the treatment as soon as lenalidomide is dispensed following a negative pregnancy test

• She understands the need and accepts to undergo pregnancy testing at least every 4 weeks except in case of confirmed tubal sterilisation

• She acknowledges that she understands the hazards and necessary precautions associated with the use of lenalidomide.

For male patients taking lenalidomide, pharmacokinetic data has demonstrated that lenalidomide is present in human semen at extremely low levels during treatment and is undetectable in human semen 3 days after stopping the substance in the healthy subject (see section 5.2). As a precaution and taking into account special populations with prolonged elimination time such as renal impairment, all male patients taking lenalidomide must meet the following conditions:

• Understand the expected teratogenic risk if engaged in sexual activity with a pregnant woman or a woman of childbearing potential

• Understand the need for the use of a condom if engaged in sexual activity with a pregnant woman or a woman of childbearing potential not using effective contraception (even if the man has had a vasectomy), during treatment and for at least 7 days after dose interruptions and/or cessation of treatment.

• Understand that if his female partner becomes pregnant whilst he is taking Lenalidomide Grindeks or shortly after he has stopped taking Lenalidomide Grindeks, he should inform his treating physician immediately and that it is recommended to refer the female partner to a physician specialised or experienced in teratology for evaluation and advice.

The prescriber must ensure that for women of childbearing potential:

• The patient complies with the conditions of the Pregnancy Prevention Programme, including confirmation that she has an adequate level of understanding

• The patient has acknowledged the aforementioned conditions.

Contraception

Women of childbearing potential must use one effective method of contraception for at least 4 weeks before therapy, during therapy, and until at least 4 weeks after lenalidomide therapy and even in case of dose interruption unless the patient commits to absolute and continuous abstinence confirmed on a monthly basis. If not established on effective contraception, the patient must be referred to an appropriately trained health care professional for contraceptive advice in order that contraception can be initiated.

The following can be considered to be examples of suitable methods of contraception:

• Implant

• Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS)

• Medroxyprogesterone acetate depot

• Tubal sterilisation

• Sexual intercourse with a vasectomised male partner only; vasectomy must be confirmed by two negative semen analyses

• Ovulation inhibitory progesterone-only pills (i.e. desogestrel)

Because of the increased risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with multiple myeloma taking lenalidomide in combination therapy, and to a lesser extent in patients with multiple myeloma taking lenalidomide monotherapy, combined oral contraceptive pills are not recommended (see also section 4.5). If a patient is currently using combined oral contraception the patient should switch to one of the effective methods listed above. The risk of venous thromboembolism continues for 4−6 weeks after discontinuing combined oral contraception. The efficacy of contraceptive steroids may be reduced during co-treatment with dexamethasone (see section 4.5).

Implants and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems are associated with an increased risk of infection at the time of insertion and irregular vaginal bleeding. Prophylactic antibiotics should be considered particularly in patients with neutropenia.

Copper-releasing intrauterine devices are generally not recommended due to the potential risks of infection at the time of insertion and menstrual blood loss which may compromise patients with neutropenia or thrombocytopenia.

Pregnancy testing

According to local practice, medically supervised pregnancy tests with a minimum sensitivity of 25 mIU/mL must be performed for women of childbearing potential as outlined below. This requirement includes women of childbearing potential who practice absolute and continuous abstinence. Ideally, pregnancy testing, issuing a prescription and dispensing should occur on the same day. Dispensing of lenalidomide to women of childbearing potential should occur within 7 days of the prescription.

Prior to starting treatment

A medically supervised pregnancy test should be performed during the consultation, when lenalidomide is prescribed, or in the 3 days prior to the visit to the prescriber once the patient had been using effective contraception for at least 4 weeks. The test should ensure the patient is not pregnant when she starts treatment with lenalidomide.

Follow-up and end of treatment

A medically supervised pregnancy test should be repeated at least every 4 weeks, including at least 4 weeks after the end of treatment, except in the case of confirmed tubal sterilisation. These pregnancy tests should be performed on the day of the prescribing visit or in the 3 days prior to the visit to the prescriber.

Additional precautions

Patients should be instructed never to give this medicinal product to another person and to return any unused capsules to their pharmacist at the end of treatment for safe disposal.

Patients should not donate blood during therapy or for at least 7 days following discontinuation of lenalidomide.

Healthcare professionals and caregivers should wear disposable gloves when handling the blister or capsule. Women who are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant should not handle the blister or capsule (see section 6.6).

Educational materials, prescribing and dispensing restrictions

In order to assist patients in avoiding foetal exposure to lenalidomide, the marketing authorisation holder will provide educational material to health care professionals to reinforce the warnings about the expected teratogenicity of lenalidomide, to provide advice on contraception before therapy is started, and to provide guidance on the need for pregnancy testing. The prescriber must inform male and female patients about the expected teratogenic risk and the strict pregnancy prevention measures as specified in the Pregnancy Prevention Programme and provide patients with appropriate patient educational brochure, patient card and/or equivalent tool in accordance to the national implemented patient card system. A national controlled distribution system has been implemented in collaboration with each National Competent Authority. The controlled distribution system includes the use of a patient card and/or equivalent tool for prescribing and/or dispensing controls, and the collecting of detailed data relating to the indication in order to monitor closely the off-label use within the national territory. Ideally, pregnancy testing, issuing a prescription and dispensing should occur on the same day. Dispensing of lenalidomide to women of childbearing potential should occur within 7 days of the prescription and following a medically supervised negative pregnancy test result. Prescriptions for women of childbearing potential can be for a maximum duration of treatment of 4 weeks according to the approved indications dosing regimens (see section 4.2), and prescriptions for all other patients can be for a maximum duration of treatment of 12 weeks.

Other special warnings and precautions for use

Myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction has been reported in patients receiving lenalidomide, particularly in those with known risk factors and within the first 12 months when used in combination with dexamethasone. Patients with known risk factors – including prior thrombosis – should be closely monitored, and action should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable risk factors (e.g. smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia).

Venous and arterial thromboembolic events

In patients with multiple myeloma, the combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (predominantly deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism). The risk of venous thromboembolism was seen to a lesser extent with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone.

In patients with multiple myeloma treatment with lenalidomide monotherapy was associated with a lower risk of venous thromboembolism (predominantly deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) than in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide in combination therapy (see sections 4.5 and 4.8).

In patients with multiple myeloma, the combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone is associated with an increased risk of arterial thromboembolism (predominantly myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular event) and was seen to a lesser extent with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone. The risk of arterial thromboembolism is lower in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide monotherapy than in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide in combination therapy.

Consequently, patients with known risk factors for thromboembolism – including prior thrombosis – should be closely monitored. Action should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable risk factors (e.g. smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia). Concomitant administration of erythropoietic agents or previous history of thromboembolic events may also increase thrombotic risk in these patients. Therefore, erythropoietic agents, or other agents that may increase the risk of thrombosis, such as hormone replacement therapy, should be used with caution in multiple myeloma patients receiving lenalidomide with dexamethasone. A haemoglobin concentration above 12 g/dl should lead to discontinuation of erythropoietic agents.

Patients and physicians are advised to be observant for the signs and symptoms of thromboembolism.

Patients should be instructed to seek medical care if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, arm or leg swelling. Prophylactic antithrombotic medicines should be recommended, especially in patients with additional thrombotic risk factors. The decision to take antithrombotic prophylactic measures should be made after careful assessment of an individual patient's underlying risk factors.

If the patient experiences any thromboembolic events, treatment must be discontinued and standard anticoagulation therapy started. Once the patient has been stabilised on the anticoagulation treatment and any complications of the thromboembolic event have been managed, the lenalidomide treatment may be restarted at the original dose dependent upon a benefit risk assessment. The patient should continue anticoagulation therapy during the course of lenalidomide treatment.

Pulmonary hypertension

Cases of pulmonary hypertension, some fatal, have been reported in patients treated with lenalidomide. Patients should be evaluated for signs and symptoms of underlying cardiopulmonary disease prior to initiating and during lenalidomide therapy.

Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia

The major dose limiting toxicities of lenalidomide include neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. A complete blood cell count, including white blood cell count with differential count, platelet count, haemoglobin, and haematocrit should be performed at baseline, every week for the first 8 weeks of lenalidomide treatment and monthly thereafter to monitor for cytopenias. In follicular lymphoma, the monitoring scheme should be weekly for the first 3 weeks of cycle 1 (28 days), every 2 weeks during cycles 2 through 4, and then at the start of each cycle thereafter. A dose interruption and/or a dose reduction may be required (see section 4.2).

In case of neutropenia, the physician should consider the use of growth factors in patient management.

Patients should be advised to promptly report febrile episodes.

Patients and physicians are advised to be observant for signs and symptoms of bleeding, including petechiae and epistaxis, especially in patients receiving concomitant medicinal products susceptible to induce bleeding (see section 4.8, Haemorrhagic disorders).

Co-administration of lenalidomide with other myelosuppressive agents should be undertaken with caution.

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who have undergone ASCT treated with lenalidomide maintenance

The adverse reactions from CALGB 100104 included events reported post-high dose melphalan and ASCT (HDM/ASCT) as well as events from the maintenance treatment period. A second analysis identified events that occurred after the start of maintenance treatment. In IFM 2005-02, the adverse reactions were from the maintenance treatment period only.

Overall, Grade 4 neutropenia was observed at a higher frequency in the lenalidomide maintenance arms compared to the placebo maintenance arms in the 2 studies evaluating lenalidomide maintenance in NDMM patients who have undergone ASCT (32.1% vs 26.7% [16.1% vs 1.8% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 16.4% vs 0.7% in IFM 2005-02, respectively). Treatment-emergent AEs of neutropenia leading to lenalidomide discontinuation were reported in 2.2% of patients in CALGB 100104 and 2.4% of patients in IFM 2005-02, respectively. Grade 4 febrile neutropenia was reported at similar frequencies in the lenalidomide maintenance arms compared to placebo maintenance arms in both studies (0.4% vs 0.5% [0.4% vs 0.5% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 0.3% vs 0% in IFM 2005-02, respectively). Patients should be advised to promptly report febrile episodes, a treatment interruption and/or dose reductions may be required (see section 4.2).

Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was observed at a higher frequency in the lenalidomide maintenance arms compared to the placebo maintenance arms in studies evaluating lenalidomide maintenance in NDMM patients who have undergone ASCT (37.5% vs 30.3% [17.9% vs 4.1% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 13.0% vs 2.9% in IFM 2005-02, respectively). Patients and physicians are advised to be observant for signs and symptoms of bleeding, including petechiae and epistaxis, especially in patients receiving concomitant medicinal products susceptible to induce bleeding (see section 4.8, Haemorrhagic disorders).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone

Grade 4 neutropenia was observed at a lower frequency in the lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone (RVd) arm compared to the Rd comparator arm (2.7% vs 5.9%) in the SWOG S0777 study. Grade 4 febrile neutropenia was reported at similar frequencies in the RVd arm and Rd arm (0.0% vs 0.4%). Patients should be advised to promptly report febrile episodes; a treatment interruption and/or dose reduction may be required (see section 4.2).

Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was observed at a higher frequency in the RVd arm compared to the Rd comparator arm (17.2 % vs 9.4%).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with low dose dexamethasone

Grade 4 neutropenia was observed in the lenalidomide arms in combination with dexamethasone to a lesser extent than in the comparator arm (8.5% in the Rd [continuous treatment] and Rd18 [treatment for 18 four-week cycles] compared with 15% in the melphalan/prednisone/thalidomide arm, see section 4.8). Grade 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were consistent with the comparator arm (0.6 % in the Rd and Rd18 lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared with 0.7% in the melphalan/prednisone/thalidomide arm, see section 4.8).

Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was observed to a lesser extent in the Rd and Rd18 arms than in the comparator arm (8.1% vs 11.1%, respectively).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone

The combination of lenalidomide with melphalan and prednisone in clinical trials of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 4 neutropenia (34.1% in melphalan, prednisone and lenalidomide arm followed by lenalidomide [MPR+R] and melphalan, prednisone and lenalidomide followed by placebo [MPR+p] treated patients compared with 7.8% in MPp+p-treated patients; see section 4.8). Grade 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were observed infrequently (1.7% in MPR+R/MPR+p treated patients compared to 0.0 % in MPp+p treated patients; see section 4.8).

The combination of lenalidomide with melphalan and prednisone in multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia (40.4% in MPR+R/MPR+p treated patients, compared with 13.7% in MPp+p-treated patients; see section 4.8).

• Multiple myeloma: patients with at least one prior therapy

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients with at least one prior therapy is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 4 neutropenia (5.1% in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared with 0.6% in placebo/dexamethasone-treated patients; see section 4.8). Grade 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were observed infrequently (0.6% in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared to 0.0% in placebo/dexamethasone treated patients; see section 4.8).

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia (9.9% and 1.4%, respectively, in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared to 2.3% and 0.0% in placebo/dexamethasone-treated patients; see section 4.8).

• Follicular lymphoma

The combination of lenalidomide with rituximab in follicular lymphoma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia compared with patients on the placebo/rituximab arm. Febrile neutropenia and Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia were more commonly observed in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm (see section 4.8).

Thyroid disorders

Cases of hypothyroidism and cases of hyperthyroidism have been reported. Optimal control of co-morbid conditions influencing thyroid function is recommended before start of treatment. Baseline and ongoing monitoring of thyroid function is recommended.

Peripheral neuropathy

Lenalidomide is structurally related to thalidomide, which is known to induce severe peripheral neuropathy. There was no increase in peripheral neuropathy observed with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone or melphalan and prednisone or lenalidomide monotherapy or with long term use of lenalidomide for the treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

The combination of lenalidomide with intravenous bortezomib and dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher frequency of peripheral neuropathy. The frequency was lower when bortezomib was administered subcutaneously. For additional information, see Section 4.8 and the SmPC for bortezomib.

Tumour flare reaction and tumour lysis syndrome

Because lenalidomide has anti-neoplastic activity the complications of tumour lysis syndrome (TLS) may occur. Cases of TLS and tumour flare reaction (TFR), including fatal cases, have been reported (see section 4.8). The patients at risk of TLS and TFR are those with high tumour burden prior to treatment. Caution should be practiced when introducing these patients to lenalidomide. These patients should be monitored closely, especially during the first cycle or dose-escalation, and appropriate precautions taken.

• Follicular lymphoma

Careful monitoring and evaluation for TFR is recommended. Tumour flare may mimic PD. Patients who experienced Grade 1 and 2 TFR were treated with corticosteroids, NSAIDs and/or narcotic analgesics for management of TFR symptoms. The decision to take therapeutic measures for TFR should be made after careful clinical assessment of the individual patient (see sections 4.2 and 4.8).

Careful monitoring and evaluation for TLS is recommended. Patients should be well hydrated and receive TLS prophylaxis, in addition to weekly chemistry panels during the first cycle or longer, as clinically indicated(see sections 4.2 and 4.8).

Allergic reactions and severe skin reactions

Cases of allergic reactions including angioedema, anaphylactic reaction and severe cutaneous reactions including SJS, TEN and DRESS have been reported in patients treated with lenalidomide (see section 4.8). Patients should be advised of the signs and symptoms of these reactions by their prescribers and should be told to seek medical attention immediately if they develop these symptoms. Lenalidomide must be discontinued for angioedema, anaphylactic reaction, exfoliative or bullous rash, or if SJS, TEN or DRESS is suspected, and should not be resumed following discontinuation for these reactions. Interruption or discontinuation of lenalidomide should be considered for other forms of skin reaction depending on severity. Patients who had previous allergic reactions while treated with thalidomide should be monitored closely, as a possible cross-reaction between lenalidomide and thalidomide has been reported in the literature. Patients with a history of severe rash associated with thalidomide treatment should not receive lenalidomide.

Second primary malignancies

An increase of second primary malignancies (SPM) has been observed in clinical trials in previously treated myeloma patients receiving lenalidomide/dexamethasone (3.98 per 100 person-years) compared to controls (1.38 per 100 person-years). Non-invasive SPM comprise basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers. Most of the invasive SPMs were solid tumour malignancies.

In clinical trials of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients not eligible for transplant, a 4.9-fold increase in incidence rate of hematologic SPM (cases of AML, myelodysplatic syndrome (MDS)) has been observed in patients receiving lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone until progression (1.75 per 100 person-years) compared with melphalan in combination with prednisone (0.36 per 100 person-years).

A 2.12-fold increase in incidence rate of solid tumour SPM has been observed in patients receiving lenalidomide (9 cycles) in combination with melphalan and prednisone (1.57 per 100 person-years) compared with melphalan in combination with prednisone (0.74 per 100 person-years).

In patients receiving lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone until progression or for 18 months, the hematologic SPM incidence rate (0.16 per 100 person-years) was not increased as compared to thalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone (0.79 per 100 person-years).

A 1.3-fold increase in incidence rate of solid tumour SPM has been observed in patients receiving lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone until progression or for 18 months (1.58 per 100 person-years) compared to thalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone (1.19 per 100 person-years).

In newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients receiving lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, the hematologic SPM incidence rate was 0.00 – 0.16 per 100 person-years and the incidence rate of solid tumour SPM 0.21 – 1.04 per 100 person-years.

The increased risk of secondary primary malignancies associated with lenalidomide is relevant also in the context of NDMM after stem cell transplantation. Though this risk is not yet fully characterized, it should be kept in mind when considering and using Lenalidomide Grindeks in this setting.

The incidence rate of hematologic malignancies, most notably AML, MDS and B-cell malignancies (including Hodgkin's lymphoma), was 1.31 per 100 person-years for the lenalidomide arms and 0.58 per 100 person-years for the placebo arms (1.02 per 100 person-years for patients exposed to lenalidomide after ASCT and 0.60 per 100 person-years for patients not-exposed to lenalidomide after ASCT). The incidence rate of solid tumour SPMs was 1.36 per 100 person-years for the lenalidomide arms and 1.05 per 100 person-years for the placebo arms (1.26 per 100 person-years for patients exposed to lenalidomide after ASCT and 0.60 per 100 person-years for patients not-exposed to lenalidomide after ASCT).

The risk of occurrence of hematologic SPM must be taken into account before initiating treatment with lenalidomide either in combination with melphalan or immediately following high-dose melphalan and ASCT. Physicians should carefully evaluate patients before and during treatment using standard cancer screening for occurrence of SPM and institute treatment as indicated.

Second primary malignancies in follicular lymphoma

In a relapsed/refractory iNHL study which included follicular lymphoma patients, no increased risk of SPMs in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm, compared to the placebo/rituximab arm, was observed. Hematologic SPM of AML occurred in 0.29 per 100 person-years in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm compared with 0.29 per 100 person-years in patients receiving placebo/rituximab. The incidence rate of hematologic plus solid tumour SPMs (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers) was 0.87 per 100 person-years in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm, compared to 1.17 per 100 person-years in patients receiving placebo/rituximab with a median follow-up of 30.59 months (range 0.6 to 50.9 months).

Non-melanoma skin cancers are identified risks and comprise squamous cell carcinomas of skin or basal cell carcinomas.

Physicians should monitor patients for the development of SPMs. Both the potential benefit of lenalidomide and the risk of SPMs should be considered when considering treatment with lenalidomide.

Hepatic disorders

Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has been reported in patients treated with lenalidomide in combination therapy: acute hepatic failure, toxic hepatitis, cytolytic hepatitis, cholestatic hepatitis, and mixed cytolytic/cholestatic hepatitis have been reported. The mechanisms of severe drug-induced hepatotoxicity remain unknown although, in some cases, pre-existing viral liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and possibly treatment with antibiotics might be risk factors.

Abnormal liver function tests were commonly reported and were generally asymptomatic and reversible upon dosing interruption. Once parameters have returned to baseline, treatment at a lower dose may be considered.

Lenalidomide is excreted by the kidneys. It is important to dose adjust patients with renal impairment in order to avoid plasma levels which may increase the risk for higher haematological adverse reactions or hepatotoxicity. Monitoring of liver function is recommended, particularly when there is a history of or concurrent viral liver infection or when lenalidomide is combined with medicinal products known to be associated with liver dysfunction.

Infection with or without neutropenia

Patients with multiple myeloma are prone to develop infections including pneumonia. A higher rate of infections was observed with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone than with MPT in patients with NDMM who are not eligible for transplant, and with lenalidomide maintenance compared to placebo in patients with NDMM who had undergone ASCT. Grade ≥ 3 infections occurred within the context of neutropenia in less than one-third of the patients. Patients with known risk factors for infections should be closely monitored. All patients should be advised to seek medical attention promptly at the first sign of infection (e.g. cough, fever, etc.) thereby allowing for early management to reduce severity.

Viral reactivation

Cases of viral reactivation have been reported in patients receiving lenalidomide, including serious cases of herpes zoster or hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation.

Some of the cases of viral reactivation had a fatal outcome.

Some of the cases of herpes zoster reactivation resulted in disseminated herpes zoster, meningitis herpes zoster or ophthalmic herpes zoster requiring a temporary hold or permanent discontinuation of the treatment with lenalidomide and adequate antiviral treatment.

Reactivation of hepatitis B has been reported rarely in patients receiving lenalidomide who have previously been infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Some of these cases have progressed to acute hepatic failure resulting in discontinuation of lenalidomide and adequate antiviral treatment. Hepatitis B virus status should be established before initiating treatment with lenalidomide. For patients who test positive for HBV infection, consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of hepatitis B is recommended. Caution should be exercised when lenalidomide is used in patients previously infected with HBV, including patients who are anti-HBc positive but HBsAg negative. These patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of active HBV infection throughout therapy.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

Cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), including fatal cases, have been reported with lenalidomide. PML was reported several months to several years after starting the treatment with lenalidomide. Cases have generally been reported in patients taking concomitant dexamethasone or prior treatment with other immunosuppressive chemotherapy. Physicians should monitor patients at regular intervals and should consider PML in the differential diagnosis in patients with new or worsening neurological symptoms, cognitive or behavioural signs or symptoms. Patients should also be advised to inform their partner or caregivers about their treatment, since they may notice symptoms that the patient is not aware of.

The evaluation for PML should be based on neurological examination, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis for JC virus (JCV) DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or a brain biopsy with testing for JCV. A negative JCV PCR does not exclude PML. Additional follow-up and evaluation may be warranted if no alternative diagnosis can be established.

If PML is suspected, further dosing must be suspended until PML has been excluded. If PML is confirmed, lenalidomide must be permanently discontinued.

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients

There was a higher rate of intolerance (Grade 3 or 4 adverse events, serious adverse events, discontinuation) in patients with age > 75 years, ISS stage III, ECOG PS≥2 or CLcr<60 mL/min when lenalidomide is given in combination. Patients should be carefully assessed for their ability to tolerate lenalidomide in combination, with consideration to age, ISS stage III, ECOG PS≥2 or CLcr<60 mL/min (see sections 4.2 and 4.8).

Cataract

Cataract has been reported with a higher frequency in patients receiving lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone particularly when used for a prolonged time. Regular monitoring of visual ability is recommended.

Lactose intolerance

Lenalidomide Grindeks capsules contain lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

Sodium

This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per capsule, that is to say essentially “sodium-free”.

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

Erythropoietic agents, or other agents that may increase the risk of thrombosis, such as hormone replacement therapy, should be used with caution in multiple myeloma patients receiving lenalidomide with dexamethasone (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).

Oral contraceptives

No interaction study has been performed with oral contraceptives. Lenalidomide is not an enzyme inducer. In an in vitro study with human hepatocytes, lenalidomide, at various concentrations tested did not induce CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP3A4/5. Therefore, induction leading to reduced efficacy of medicinal products, including hormonal contraceptives, is not expected if lenalidomide is administered alone. However, dexamethasone is known to be a weak to moderate inducer of CYP3A4 and is likely to also affect other enzymes as well as transporters. It may not be excluded that the efficacy of oral contraceptives may be reduced during treatment. Effective measures to avoid pregnancy must be taken (see sections 4.4 and 4.6).

Warfarin

Co-administration of multiple 10 mg doses of lenalidomide had no effect on the single dose pharmacokinetics of R- and S- warfarin. Co-administration of a single 25 mg dose of warfarin had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of lenalidomide. However, it is not known whether there is an interaction during clinical use (concomitant treatment with dexamethasone). Dexamethasone is a weak to moderate enzyme inducer and its effect on warfarin is unknown. Close monitoring of warfarin concentration is advised during the treatment.

Digoxin

Concomitant administration with lenalidomide 10 mg once daily increased the plasma exposure of digoxin (0.5 mg, single dose) by 14% with a 90% CI (confidence interval) [0.52%-28.2%]. It is not known whether the effect will be different in the clinical use (higher lenalidomide doses and concomitant treatment with dexamethasone). Therefore, monitoring of the digoxin concentration is advised during lenalidomide treatment.

Statins

There is an increased risk of rhabdomyolysis when statins are administered with lenalidomide, which may be simply additive. Enhanced clinical and laboratory monitoring is warranted notably during the first weeks of treatment.

Dexamethasone

Co-administration of single or multiple doses of dexamethasone (40 mg once daily) has no clinically relevant effect on the multiple dose pharmacokinetics of lenalidomide (25 mg once daily).

Interactions with P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors

In vitro, lenalidomide is a substrate of P-gp, but is not a P-gp inhibitor. Co-administration of multiple doses of the strong P-gp inhibitor quinidine (600 mg, twice daily) or the moderate P-gp inhibitor/substrate temsirolimus (25 mg) has no clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of lenalidomide (25 mg). Co-administration of lenalidomide does not alter the pharmacokinetics of temsirolimus.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Due to the teratogenic potential, lenalidomide must be prescribed under a Pregnancy Prevention Programme (see section 4.4) unless there is reliable evidence that the patient does not have childbearing potential.

Women of childbearing potential / Contraception in males and females

Women of childbearing potential should use effective method of contraception. If pregnancy occurs in a woman treated with lenalidomide, treatment must be stopped and the patient should be referred to a physician specialised or experienced in teratology for evaluation and advice. If pregnancy occurs in a partner of a male patient taking lenalidomide, it is recommended to refer the female partner to a physician specialised or experienced in teratology for evaluation and advice.

Lenalidomide is present in human semen at extremely low levels during treatment and is undetectable in human semen 3 days after stopping the substance in the healthy subject (see section 5.2). As a precaution, and taking into account special populations with prolonged elimination time such as renal impairment, all male patients taking lenalidomide should use condoms throughout treatment duration, during dose interruption and for 1 week after cessation of treatment if their partner is pregnant or of childbearing potential and has no contraception.

Pregnancy

Lenalidomide is structurally related to thalidomide. Thalidomide is a known human teratogenic active substance that causes severe life-threatening birth defects.

Lenalidomide induced malformation in monkeys similar to those described with thalidomide (see section 5.3). Therefore, a teratogenic effect of lenalidomide is expected and lenalidomide is contraindicated during pregnancy (see section 4.3).

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether lenalidomide is excreted in breast milk. Therefore, breast-feeding should be discontinued during therapy with lenalidomide.

Fertility

A fertility study in rats with lenalidomide doses up to 500 mg/kg (approximately 200 to 500 times the human doses of 25 mg and 10 mg, respectively, based on body surface area) produced no adverse effects on fertility and no parental toxicity.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Lenalidomide has minor or moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines. Fatigue, dizziness, somnolence, vertigo and blurred vision have been reported with the use of lenalidomide. Therefore, caution is recommended when driving or operating machines.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who have undergone ASCT treated with lenalidomide maintenance

A conservative approach was applied to determine the adverse reactions from CALGB 100104. The adverse reactions described in Table 1 included events reported post-HDM/ASCT as well as events from the maintenance treatment period. A second analysis that identified events that occurred after the start of maintenance treatment suggests that the frequencies described in Table 1 may be higher than actually observed during the maintenance treatment period. In IFM 2005-02, the adverse reactions were from the maintenance treatment period only.

The serious adverse reactions observed more frequently (≥ 5%) with lenalidomide maintenance than placebo were:

• Pneumonia (10.6%; combined term) from IFM 2005-02

• Lung infection (9.4% [9.4% after the start of maintenance treatment]) from CALGB 100104

In the IFM 2005-02 study, the adverse reactions observed more frequently with lenalidomide maintenance than placebo were neutropenia (60.8%), bronchitis (47.4%), diarrhoea (38.9%), nasopharyngitis (34.8%), muscle spasms (33.4%), leucopenia (31.7%), asthenia (29.7%), cough (27.3%), thrombocytopenia (23.5%), gastroenteritis (22.5%) and pyrexia (20.5%).

In the CALGB 100104 study, the adverse reactions observed more frequently with lenalidomide maintenance than placebo were neutropenia (79.0% [71.9% after the start of maintenance treatment]), thrombocytopenia (72.3% [61.6%]), diarrhoea (54.5% [46.4%]), rash (31.7% [25.0%]), upper respiratory tract infection (26.8% [26.8%]), fatigue (22.8% [17.9%]), leucopenia (22.8% [18.8%]) and anaemia (21.0% [13.8%]).

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients who are not eligible for transplant receiving lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone

In the SWOG S0777 study, the serious adverse reactions observed more frequently (≥ 5%) with lenalidomide in combination with intravenous bortezomib and dexamethasone than with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone were:

• Hypotension (6.5%), lung infection (5.7%), dehydration (5.0%)

The adverse reactions observed more frequently with lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone than with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone were: Fatigue (73.7%), peripheral neuropathy (71.8%), thrombocytopenia (57.6%), constipation (56.1%), hypocalcaemia (50.0%).

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with low dose dexamethasone

The serious adverse reactions observed more frequently (≥ 5%) with lenalidomide in combination with low dose dexamethasone (Rd and Rd18) than with melphalan, prednisone and thalidomide (MPT) were:

• Pneumonia (9.8%)

• Renal failure (including acute) (6.3%)

The adverse reactions observed more frequently with Rd or Rd18 than MPT were: diarrhoea (45.5%), fatigue (32.8%), back pain (32.0%), asthenia (28.2%), insomnia (27.6%), rash (24.3%), decreased appetite (23.1%), cough (22.7%), pyrexia (21.4%), and muscle spasms (20.5%).

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone

The serious adverse reactions observed more frequently (≥ 5%) with melphalan, prednisone and lenalidomide followed by lenalidomide maintenance (MPR+R) or melphalan, prednisone and lenalidomide followed by placebo (MPR+p) than melphalan, prednisone and placebo followed by placebo (MPp+p) were:

• Febrile neutropenia (6.0%)

• Anaemia (5.3%)

The adverse reactions observed more frequently with MPR+R or MPR+p than MPp+p were: neutropenia (83.3%), anaemia (70.7%), thrombocytopenia (70.0%), leukopenia (38.8%), constipation (34.0%), diarrhoea (33.3%), rash (28.9%), pyrexia (27.0%), peripheral oedema (25.0%), cough (24.0%), decreased appetite (23.7%), and asthenia (22.0%).

Multiple myeloma: patients with at least one prior therapy

In two phase 3 placebo-controlled studies, 353 patients with multiple myeloma were exposed to the lenalidomide/dexamethasone combination and 351 to the placebo/dexamethasone combination.

The most serious adverse reactions observed more frequently in lenalidomide/dexamethasone than placebo/dexamethasone combination were:

• Venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) (see section 4.4)

• Grade 4 neutropenia (see section 4.4).

The observed adverse reactions which occurred more frequently with lenalidomide and dexamethasone than placebo and dexamethasone in pooled multiple myeloma clinical trials (MM-009 and MM-010) were fatigue (43.9%), neutropenia (42.2%), constipation (40.5%), diarrhoea (38.5%), muscle cramp (33.4%), anaemia (31.4%), thrombocytopenia (21.5%), and rash (21.2%).

Myelodysplastic syndromes

The overall safety profile of lenalidomide in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes is based on data from a total of 286 patients from one phase 2 study and one phase 3 study. In the phase 2, all 148 patients were on lenalidomide treatment. In the phase 3 study, 69 patients were on lenalidomide 5 mg, 69 patients on lenalidomide 10 mg and 67 patients were on placebo during the double-blind phase of the study.

Most adverse reactions tended to occur during the first 16 weeks of therapy with lenalidomide.

Serious adverse reactions include:

• Venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) (see section 4.4)

• Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, febrile neutropenia and grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia (see section 4.4).

The most commonly observed adverse reactions which occurred more frequently in the lenalidomide groups compared to the control arm in the phase 3 study were neutropenia (76.8%), thrombocytopenia (46.4%), diarrhoea (34.8%), constipation (19.6%), nausea (19.6%), pruritus (25.4%), rash (18.1%), fatigue (18.1%) and muscle spasms (16.7%).

Mantle cell lymphoma

The overall safety profile of lenalidomide in patients with mantle cell lymphoma is based on data from 254 patients from a phase 2 randomised, controlled study MCL-002.

Additionally, adverse drug reactions from supportive study MCL-001 have been included in table 4.

The serious adverse reactions observed more frequently in study MCL-002 (with a difference of at least 2 percentage points) in the lenalidomide arm compared with the control arm were:

• Neutropenia (3.6%)

• Pulmonary embolism (3.6%)

• Diarrhoea (3.6%)

The most frequently observed adverse reactions which occurred more frequently in the lenalidomide arm compared with the control arm in study MCL-002 were neutropenia (50.9%), anaemia (28.7%), diarrhoea (22.8%), fatigue (21.0%), constipation (17.4%), pyrexia (16.8%), and rash (including dermatitis allergic) (16.2%).

In study MCL-002 there was overall an apparent increase in early (within 20 weeks) deaths. Patients with high tumour burden at baseline are at increased risk of early death, 16/81 (20%) early deaths in the lenalidomide arm and 2/28 (7%) early deaths in the control arm. Within 52 weeks corresponding figures were 32/81 (39.5%) and 6/28 (21%) (see section 5.1).

During treatment cycle 1, 11/81 (14%) patients with high tumour burden were withdrawn from therapy in the lenalidomide arm vs. 1/28 (4%) in the control group. The main reason for treatment withdrawal for patients with high tumour burden during treatment cycle 1 in the lenalidomide arm was adverse events, 7/11 (64%).

High tumour burden was defined as at least one lesion ≥5 cm in diameter or 3 lesions ≥3 cm.

Follicular lymphoma

The overall safety profile of lenalidomide in combination with rituximab in patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma is based on data from 294 patients from a Phase 3 randomised, controlled study NHL-007. Additionally, adverse drug reactions from supportive study NHL-008 have been included in Table 5.

The serious adverse reactions observed most frequently (with a difference of at least 1 percentage point) in study NHL-007 in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm compared with the placebo/rituximab arm were:

• Febrile neutropenia (2.7%)

• Pulmonary embolism (2.7%)

• Pneumonia (2.7%)

In the NHL-007 study the adverse reactions observed more frequently in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm compared with the placebo/rituximab arm (with at least 2% higher frequency between arms) were neutropenia (58.2%), diarrhoea (30.8%), leucopenia (28.8%), constipation (21.9%), cough (21.9%) and fatigue (21.9%).

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

The adverse reactions observed in patients treated with lenalidomide are listed below by system organ class and frequency. Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness. Frequencies are defined as: 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).

Adverse reactions have been included under the appropriate category in the table below according to the highest frequency observed in any of the main clinical trials.

Tabulated summary for monotherapy in MM

The following table is derived from data gathered during NDMM studies in patients who have undergone ASCT treated with lenalidomide maintenance. The data were not adjusted according to the longer duration of treatment in the lenalidomide-containing arms continued until disease progression versus the placebo arms in the pivotal multiple myeloma studies (see section 5.1).

Table 1. ADRs reported in clinical trials in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide maintenance therapy

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3-4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Very Common

Pneumonia◊,a, Upper respiratory tract infection, Neutropenic infection, Bronchitis◊, Influenza◊, Gastroenteritis◊, Sinusitis, Nasopharyngitis, Rhinitis

Common

Infection◊, Urinary tract infection◊,*, Lower respiratory tract infection, Lung infection◊

Very Common

Pneumonia◊,a, Neutropenic infection

Common

Sepsis◊,b, Bacteraemia, Lung infection◊, Lower respiratory tract infection bacterial, Bronchitis◊, Influenza◊, Gastroenteritis◊, Herpes zoster◊, Infection◊

Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl cysts and polyps)

Common

Myelodysplastic syndrome◊,*

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊, Febrile neutropenia^,◊, Thrombocytopenia^,◊,, Anaemia, Leucopenia◊, Lymphopenia

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊, Febrile neutropenia^,◊, Thrombocytopenia^,◊, Anaemia, Leucopenia◊, Lymphopenia

Common

Pancytopenia◊

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Very Common

Hypokalaemia

Common

Hypokalaemia, Dehydration

Nervous System Disorders

Very Common

Paraesthesia

Common

Peripheral neuropathyc

Common

Headache

Vascular Disorders

Common

Pulmonary embolism◊,*

Common

Deep vein thrombosis^,◊,d

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Very Common

Cough

Common

Dyspnoea◊, Rhinorrhoea

Common

Dyspnoea◊

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Very Common

Diarrhoea, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Nausea

Common

Vomiting, Abdominal pain upper

Common

Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Nausea

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Very Common

Abnormal liver function tests

Common

Abnormal liver function tests

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Rash, Dry skin

Common

Rash, Pruritus

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Muscle spasms

Common

Myalgia, Musculoskeletal pain

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Very Common

Fatigue, Asthenia, Pyrexia

Common

Fatigue, Asthenia

◊ Adverse reactions reported as serious in clinical trials in patients with NDMM who had undergone ASCT

* Applies to serious adverse drug reactions only

^ See section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

a “Pneumonia” combined AE term includes the following PTs: Bronchopneumonia, Lobar pneumonia, Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, Pneumonia, Pneumonia klebsiella, Pneumonia legionella, Pneumonia mycoplasmal, Pneumonia pneumococcal, Pneumonia streptococcal, Pneumonia viral, Lung disorder, Pneumonitis

b “Sepsis” combined AE term includes the following PTs: Bacterial sepsis, Pneumococcal sepsis, Septic shock, Staphylococcal sepsis

c “Peripheral neuropathy” combined AE term includes the following preferred terms (PTs): Neuropathy peripheral, Peripheral sensory neuropathy, Polyneuropathy

d “Deep vein thrombosis” combined AE term includes the following PTs: Deep vein thrombosis, Thrombosis, Venous thrombosis

Tabulated summary for combination therapy in MM

The following table is derived from data gathered during the multiple myeloma studies with combination therapy. The data were not adjusted according to the longer duration of treatment in the lenalidomide-containing arms continued until disease progression versus the comparator arms in the pivotal multiple myeloma studies (see section 5.1).

Table 2. ADRs reported in clinical studies in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, dexamethasone, or melphalan and prednisone

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3−4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Very Common

Pneumonia◊,◊◊, Upper respiratory tract infection◊, Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊, Nasopharyngitis, Pharyngitis, Bronchitis◊, Rhinitis

Common

Sepsis◊,◊◊, Lung infection◊◊, Urinary tract infection◊◊, Sinusitis◊

Common

Pneumonia◊,◊◊, Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊, Cellulitis◊, Sepsis◊,◊◊, Lung infection◊◊, Bronchitis◊, Respiratory tract infection◊◊, Urinary tract infection◊◊, Enterocolitis infectious

Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl cysts and polyps)

Uncommon

Basal cell carcinoma^,◊, Squamous skin cancer^,◊,*

Common

Acute myeloid leukaemia◊, Myelodysplastic syndrome◊, Squamous cell carcinoma of skin^,◊,**

Uncommon

T-cell type acute leukaemia◊, Basal cell carcinoma^,◊, Tumour lysis syndrome

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊,◊◊, Thrombocytopenia^,◊,◊◊, Anaemia◊, Haemorrhagic disorder^, Leucopenia, Lymphopenia

Common

Febrile neutropenia^,◊, Pancytopenia◊

Uncommon

Haemolysis, Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, Haemolytic anaemia

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊,◊◊, Thrombocytopenia^,◊,◊◊, Anaemia◊,, Leucopenia, Lymphopenia

Common

Febrile neutropenia^,◊, Pancytopenia◊, Haemolytic anaemia

Uncommon

Hypercoagulation, Coagulopathy

Immune System Disorders

Uncommon

Hypersensitivity^

Endocrine Disorders

Common

Hypothyroidism

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Very Common

Hypokalaemia◊,◊◊, Hyperglycaemia, Hypoglycaemia, Hypocalcaemia◊, Hyponatraemia◊, Dehydration◊◊, Decreased appetite◊◊, Weight decreased

Common

Hypomagnesaemia, Hyperuricaemia, Hypercalcaemia+

Common

Hypokalaemia◊,◊◊, Hyperglycaemia, Hypocalcaemia◊, Diabetes mellitus◊, Hypophosphataemia, Hyponatraemia◊, Hyperuricaemia, Gout, Dehydration◊◊, Decreased appetite◊◊, Weight decreased

Psychiatric Disorders

Very Common

Depression, Insomnia

Uncommon

Loss of libido

Common

Depression, Insomnia

Nervous System Disorders

Very Common

Peripheral neuropathies◊◊, Paraesthesia, Dizziness◊◊, Tremor, Dysgeusia, Headache

Common

Ataxia, Balance impaired, Syncope◊◊, Neuralgia, Dysaesthesia

Very Common

Peripheral neuropathies◊◊

Common

Cerebrovascular accident◊, Dizziness◊◊, Syncope◊◊, Neuralgia

Uncommon

Intracranial haemorrhage^, Transient ischaemic attack, Cerebral ischemia

Eye Disorders

Very Common

Cataracts, Blurred vision

Common

Reduced visual acuity

Common

Cataract

Uncommon

Blindness

Ear and Labyrinth Disorders

Common

Deafness (Including Hypoacusis), Tinnitus

Cardiac Disorders

Common

Atrial fibrillation◊,◊◊, Bradycardia

Uncommon

Arrhythmia, QT prolongation, Atrial flutter, Ventricular extrasystoles

Common

Myocardial infarction (including acute)^,◊, Atrial fibrillation◊,◊◊, Congestive cardiac failure◊, Tachycardia, Cardiac failure◊,◊◊, Myocardial ischemia◊

Vascular Disorders

Very Common

Venous thromboembolic events^, predominantly deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism^,◊,◊◊, Hypotension◊◊

Common

Hypertension, Ecchymosis^

Very Common

Venous thromboembolic events^, predominantly deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism^,◊,◊◊

Common

Vasculitis, Hypotension◊◊, Hypertension

Uncommon

Ischemia, Peripheral ischemia, Intracranial venous sinus thrombosis

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Very Common

Dyspnoea◊,◊◊, Epistaxis^, Cough

Common

Dysphonia

Common

Respiratory distress◊, Dyspnoea◊,◊◊, Pleuritic pain◊◊, Hypoxia◊◊

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Very Common

Diarrhoea◊,◊◊, Constipation◊, Abdominal pain◊◊, Nausea, Vomiting◊◊, Dyspepsia, Dry mouth, Stomatitis

Common

Gastrointestinal haemorrhage (including rectal haemorrhage, haemorrhoidal haemorrhage, peptic ulcer haemorrhage and gingival bleeding)^,◊◊, Dysphagia

Uncommon

Colitis, Caecitis

Common

Gastrointestinal haemorrhage^,◊,◊◊, Small intestinal obstruction◊◊, Diarrhoea◊◊, Constipation◊, Abdominal pain◊◊, Nausea, Vomiting◊◊

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Very Common

Alanine aminotransferase increased, Aspartate aminotransferase increased

Common

Hepatocellular injury◊◊, Abnormal liver function tests◊, Hyperbilirubinaemia

Uncommon

Hepatic failure^

Common

Cholestasis◊, Hepatotoxicity, Hepatocellular injury◊◊, Alanine aminotransferase increased, Abnormal liver function tests◊

Uncommon

Hepatic failure^

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Rashes◊◊, Pruritus

Common

Urticaria, Hyperhidrosis, Dry skin, Skin hyperpigmentation, Eczema, Erythema

Uncommon

Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms◊◊, Skin discolouration, Photosensitivity reaction

Common

Rashes◊◊

Uncommon

Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms◊◊

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Muscular weakness◊◊, Muscle spasms, Bone pain◊, Musculoskeletal and connective tissue pain and discomfort (including back pain◊,◊◊), Pain in extremity, Myalgia, Arthralgia◊

Common

Joint swelling

Common

Muscular weakness◊◊, Bone pain◊, Musculoskeletal and connective tissue pain and discomfort (including back pain◊,◊◊)

Uncommon

Joint swelling

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Very Common

Renal failure (including acute)◊,◊◊

Common

Haematuria^, Urinary retention, Urinary incontinence

Uncommon

Acquired Fanconi syndrome

Uncommon

Renal tubular necrosis

Reproductive System and Breast Disorders

Common

Erectile dysfunction

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Very Common

Fatigue◊,◊◊, Oedema (including peripheral oedema), Pyrexia◊,◊◊, Asthenia, Influenza like illness syndrome (including pyrexia, cough, myalgia, musculoskeletal pain, headache and rigors)

Common

Chest pain◊,◊◊, Lethargy

Very Common

Fatigue◊,◊◊

Common

Oedema peripheral, Pyrexia◊,◊◊, Asthenia

Investigations

Very common

Blood alkaline phosphatase increased

Common

C-reactive protein increased

Injury, Poisoning and Procedural Complications

Common

Fall, Contusion^

◊◊Adverse reactions reported as serious in clinical trials in patients with NDMM who had received lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone

^ See section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

◊ Adverse reactions reported as serious in clinical trials in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone, or with melphalan and prednisone

+ Applies to serious adverse drug reactions only

* Squamous skin cancer was reported in clinical trials in previously treated myeloma patients with lenalidomide/dexamethasone compared to controls

** Squamous cell carcinoma of skin was reported in a clinical trial in newly diagnosed myeloma patients with lenalidomide/dexamethasone compared to controls

Tabulated summary from monotherapy

The following tables are derived from data gathered during the main studies in monotherapy for myelodysplastic syndromes and mantle cell lymphoma.

Table 3. ADRs reported in clinical trials in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes treated with lenalidomide#

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3−4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Very Common

Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊

Very Common

Pneumonia◊

Common

Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊, Bronchitis

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very Common

Thrombocytopenia^,◊, Neutropenia^,◊, Leucopenia

Very Common

Thrombocytopenia^,◊, Neutropenia^,◊, Leucopenia

Common

Febrile neutropenia^,◊

Endocrine Disorders

Very Common

Hypothyroidism

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Very Common

Decreased appetite

Common

Iron overload, Weight decreased

Common

Hyperglycaemia◊, Decreased appetite

Psychiatric Disorders

Common

Altered mood◊,~

Nervous System Disorders

Very Common

Dizziness, Headache

Common

Paraesthesia

Cardiac Disorders

Common

Acute myocardial infarction^,◊, Atrial fibrillation◊, Cardiac failure◊

Vascular Disorders

Common

Hypertension, Haematoma

Common

Venous thromboembolic events, predominantly deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism^,◊

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Very Common

Epistaxis^

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Very Common

Diarrhoea◊, Abdominal pain (including upper), Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation

Common

Dry mouth, Dyspepsia

Common

Diarrhoea◊, Nausea, Toothache

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Common

Abnormal liver function tests

Common

Abnormal liver function tests

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Rashes, Dry Skin, Pruritus

Common

Rashes, Pruritus

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Muscle spasms, Musculoskeletal pain (including back pain◊ and pain in extremity), Arthralgia, Myalgia

Common

Back pain◊

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Common

Renal failure◊

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Very Common

Fatigue, Peripheral oedema, Influenza like illness syndrome (including pyrexia, cough, pharyngitis, myalgia, musculoskeletal pain, headache)

Common

Pyrexia

Injury, Poisoning and Procedural Complications

Common

Fall

^see section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

◊Adverse events reported as serious in myelodysplastic syndromes clinical trials

~Altered mood was reported as a common serious adverse event in the myelodysplastic syndromes phase 3 study; it was not reported as a Grade 3 or 4 adverse event

Algorithm applied for inclusion in the SmPC: All ADRs captured by the phase 3 study algorithm are included in the EU SmPC. For these ADRs, an additional check of the frequency of the ADRs captured by the phase 2 study algorithm was undertaken and, if the frequency of the ADRs in the phase 2 study was higher than in the phase 3 study, the event was included in the EU SmPC at the frequency it occurred in the phase 2 study.

# Algorithm applied for myelodysplastic syndromes:

• Myelodysplastic syndromes phase 3 study (double-blind safety population, difference between lenalidomide 5/10mg and placebo by initial dosing regimen occurring in at least 2 subjects)

o All treatment-emergent adverse events with ≥ 5% of subjects in lenalidomide and at least 2% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and placebo

o All treatment-emergent Grade 3 or 4 adverse events in 1% of subjects in lenalidomide and at least 1% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and placebo

o All treatment-emergent serious adverse events in 1% of subjects in lenalidomide and at least 1% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and placebo

• Myelodysplastic syndromes phase 2 study

O All treatment-emergent adverse events with ≥ 5% of lenalidomide treated subjects

O All treatment-emergent Grade 3 or 4 adverse\events in 1% of lenalidomide treated subjects

O All treatment-emergent serious adverse events in 1% of lenalidomide treated subjects

Table 4. ADRs reported in clinical trials in patients with mantle cell lymphoma treated with lenalidomide

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3−4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Very Common

Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊, Nasopharyngitis, Pneumonia◊

Common

Sinusitis

Common

Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (including opportunistic infections)◊, Pneumonia◊

Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl cysts and polyps)

Common

Tumour flare reaction

Common

Tumour flare reaction, Squamous skin cancer^,◊, Basal cell carcinoma^,◊

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very Common

Thrombocytopenia^, Neutropenia^,◊, Leucopenia◊, Anaemia◊

Common

Febrile neutropenia^,◊

Very Common

Thrombocytopenia^, Neutropenia^,◊, Anaemia◊

Common

Febrile neutropenia^,◊, Leucopenia◊

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Very Common

Decreased appetite, Weight decreased, Hypokalaemia

Common

Dehydration◊

Common

Dehydration◊, Hyponatraemia, Hypocalcaemia

Psychiatric Disorders

Common

Insomnia

Nervous System Disorders

Common

Dysgeuesia, Headache, neuropathy peripheral

Common

Peripheral sensory neuropathy, Lethargy

Ear and Labyrinth Disorders

Common

Vertigo

Cardiac Disorders

Common

Myocardial infarction (including acute)^,◊, Cardiac failure

Vascular Disorders

Common

Hypotension◊

Common

Deep vein thrombosis◊, pulmonary embolism^,◊, Hypotension◊

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Very Common

Dyspnoea◊

Common

Dyspnoea◊

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Very Common

Diarrhoea◊, Nausea◊, Vomiting◊, Constipation

Common

Abdominal pain◊

Common

Diarrhoea◊, Abdominal pain◊, Constipation

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Rashes (including dermatitis allergic), Pruritus

Common

Night sweats, Dry skin

Common

Rashes

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Muscle spasms, Back pain

Common

Arthralgia, Pain in extremity, Muscular weakness◊

Common

Back pain, Muscular weakness◊, Arthralgia, Pain in extremity

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Common

Renal failure◊

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Very Common

Fatigue, Asthenia◊, Peripheral oedema, Influenza like illness syndrome (including pyrexia◊, cough)

Common

Chills

Common

Pyrexia◊, Asthenia◊, Fatigue

^see section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

◊Adverse events reported as serious in mantle cell lymphoma clinical trials Algorithm applied for mantle cell lymphoma:

• Mantle cell lymphoma controlled phase 2 study

o All treatment-emergent adverse events with ≥ 5% of subjects in lenalidomide arm and at least 2% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and control arm

o All treatment-emergent Grade 3 or 4 adverse events in ≥1% of subjects in lenalidomide arm and at least 1.0% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and control arm

o All Serious treatment-emergent adverse events in ≥1% of subjects in lenalidomide arm and at least 1.0% difference in proportion between lenalidomide and control arm

• Mantle cell lymphoma single arm phase 2 study

o All treatment-emergent adverse events with ≥ 5% of subjects

o All Grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse events reported in 2 or more subjects

o All Serious treatment-emergent adverse events reported in 2 or more subjects

Tabulated summary for combination therapy in FL

The following table is derived from data gathered during the main studies (NHL-007 and NHL-008) using lenalidomide in combination with rituximab for patients with follicular lymphoma.

Table 5. ADRs reported in clinical trials in patients with follicular lymphoma treated with lenalidomide

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3−4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Very Common

Upper respiratory tract infection

Common

Pneumonia◊, Influenza, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Urinary tract infection

Common

Pneumonia◊, Sepsis◊, Lung infection, Bronchitis, Gastroenteritis, Sinusitis, Urinary tract infection, Cellulitis◊

Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl cysts and polyps)

Very Common

Tumour flare^

Common

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Skin◊,^,+

Common

Basal cell carcinoma^,◊

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊, Anaemia◊,

Thrombocytopenia^, Leucopenia**

Lymphopenia***

Very Common

Neutropenia^,◊

Common

Anaemia◊, Thrombocytopenia^,

Febrile neutropenia◊, Pancytopenia,

Leucopenia**, Lymphopenia***

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Very Common

Decreased appetite, Hypokalaemia

Common

Hypophosphataemia, Dehydration

Common

Dehydration◊, Hypercalcaemia◊,

Hypokalaemia, Hypophosphataemia,

Hyperuricaemia

Psychiatric Disorders

Common

Depression, Insomnia

Nervous System Disorders

Very Common

Headache, Dizziness

Common

Peripheral sensory neuropathy, Dysgeusia

Common

Syncope

Cardiac Disorders

Uncommon

Arrhythmia◊

Vascular Disorders

Common

Hypotension

Common

Pulmonary embolism^,◊, Hypotension

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Very Common

Dyspnoea◊, Cough,

Common

Oropharyngeal pain, Dysphonia

Common

Dyspnoea◊

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Very Common

Abdominal pain◊, Diarrhoea, Constipation, Nausea, Vomiting, Dyspepsia

Common

Upper abdominal pain, Stomatitis, Dry mouth

Common

Abdominal pain◊, Diarrhoea, Constipation, Stomatitis

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Rash*, Pruritus

Common

Dry skin, Night sweats, Erythema

Common

Rash*, Pruritus

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders

Very Common

Muscle spasms, Back pain, Arthralgia

Common

Pain in extremity, Muscular weakness, Musculoskeletal pain, Myalgia, Neck pain

Common

Muscular weakness, Neck pain

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Common

Acute kidney injury ◊

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Very Common

Pyrexia, Fatigue, Asthenia, Peripheral oedema

Common

Malaise, Chills

Common

Fatigue, Asthenia

Investigations

Very Common

Alanine aminotransferase increased

Common

Weight decreased, Blood Bilirubin increased

^see section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

Algorithm applied for follicular lymphoma:

Controlled– Phase 3 trial:

o NHL-007 ADRs- All treatment-emergent AEs with ≥ 5.0% of subjects in lenalidomide/rituximab arm and at least 2.0% higher frequency (%) in Len arm compared to control arm - (Safety population)

o NHL-007 Gr 3/4 ADRs- All Grades 3 or Grade 4 treatment-emergent AEs with at least 1.0% subjects in lenalidomide/rituximab arm and at least 1.0% higher frequency in lenalidomide arm compared to control arm - (safety population)

o NHL-007 Serious ADRs- All serious treatment-emergent AEs with at least 1.0% subjects in lenalidomide/rituximab arm and at least 1.0% higher frequency in lenalidomide/rituximab arm compared to control arm - (safety population)

FL single arm - phase 3 trial:

o NHL-008 ADRs- All treatment-emergent adverse events with ≥ 5.0% of subjects

o NHL-008 Gr 3/4 ADRs- All Grade 3/4 treatment-emergent adverse events reported in ≥ 1.0% of subjects

o NHL-008 Serious ADRs- All serious treatment-emergent adverse events reported in ≥ 1.0% of subjects

◊ Adverse events reported as serious in follicular lymphoma clinical trials

+ Applies to serious adverse drug reactions only

* Rash includes PT of rash and rash maculo-papular

** Leucopenia includes PT leucopenia and white blood cell count decreased

*** Lymphopenia includes PT lymphopenia and lymphocyte count decreased

Tabulated summary of post-marketing adverse reactions

In addition to the above adverse reactions identified from the pivotal clinical trials, the following table is derived from data gathered from post-marketing data.

Table 6. ADRs reported in post-marketing use in patients treated with lenalidomide

System Organ Class / Preferred Term

All ADRs/Frequency

Grade 3−4 ADRs/Frequency

Infections and Infestations

Not Known

Viral infections, including herpes zoster and hepatitis B virus reactivation

Not Known

Viral infections, including herpes zoster and hepatitis B virus reactivation

Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl. cysts and polyps)

Rare

Tumour lysis syndrome

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Not Known

Acquired haemophilia

Immune System Disorders

Rare

Anaphylactic reaction^

Not Known

Solid organ transplant rejection

Rare

Anaphylactic reaction^

Endocrine Disorders

Common

Hyperthyroidism

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Uncommon

Pulmonary hypertension

Rare

Pulmonary hypertension

Not Known

Interstitial pneumonitis

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Not Known

Pancreatitis, Gastrointestinal perforation (including diverticular, intestinal and large intestine perforations)^

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Not Known

Acute hepatic failure^, Hepatitis toxic^, Cytolytic hepatitis^, Cholestatic hepatitis^, Mixed cytolytic/cholestatic hepatitis^

Not Known

Acute hepatic failure^, Hepatitis toxic^

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Uncommon

Angioedema

Rare

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome^, Toxic epidermal necrolysis^

Not Known

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis, Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms^

^ see section 4.8 description of selected adverse reactions

Description of selected adverse reactions

Teratogenicity

Lenalidomide is structurally related to thalidomide. Thalidomide is a known human teratogenic active substance that causes severe life-threatening birth defects. In monkeys, lenalidomide induced malformations similar to those described with thalidomide (see sections 4.6 and 5.3). If lenalidomide is taken during pregnancy, a teratogenic effect of lenalidomide in humans is expected.

Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who have undergone ASCT treated with lenalidomide maintenance

Lenalidomide maintenance after ASCT is associated with a higher frequency of Grade 4 neutropenia compared to placebo maintenance (32.1% vs 26.7% [16.1% vs 1.8% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 16.4% vs 0.7% in IFM 2005-02, respectively). Treatment-emergent AEs of neutropenia leading to lenalidomide discontinuation were reported in 2.2% of patients in CALGB 100104 and 2.4% of patients in IFM 2005-02, respectively. Grade 4 febrile neutropenia was reported at similar frequencies in the lenalidomide maintenance arms compared to placebo maintenance arms in both studies (0.4% vs 0.5% [0.4% vs 0.5% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 0.3% vs 0% in IFM 2005-02, respectively).

Lenalidomide maintenance after ASCT is associated with a higher frequency of Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia compared to placebo maintenance (37.5% vs 30.3% [17.9% vs 4.1% after the start of maintenance treatment] in CALGB 100104 and 13.0% vs 2.9% in IFM 2005-02, respectively).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients who are not eligible for transplant receiving lenalidomide in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone

Grade 4 neutropenia was observed in the RVd arm to a lesser extent than in the Rd comparator arm (2.7% vs 5.9%) in the SWOG S0777 study. Grade 4 febrile neutropenia was reported at similar frequencies in the RVd arm compared to the Rd arm (0.0% vs 0.4%).

Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was observed in the RVd arm to a greater extent than in the Rd comparator arm (17.2 % vs 9.4%).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients is associated with a lower frequency of Grade 4 neutropenia (8.5% in Rd and Rd18, compared with MPT (15%). Grade 4 febrile neutropenia was observed infrequently (0.6% in Rd and Rd18 compared with 0.7% in MPT).

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients is associated with a lower frequency of Grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia (8.1% in Rd and Rd18) compared with MPT (11.1%).

• Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: patients who are not eligible for transplant treated with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone

The combination of lenalidomide with melphalan and prednisone in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher frequency of Grade 4 neutropenia (34.1% in MPR+R/MPR+p) compared with MPp+p (7.8%). There was a higher frequency of Grade 4 febrile neutropenia observed (1.7% in MPR+R/MPR+p compared to 0.0% in MPp+p).

The combination of lenalidomide with melphalan and prednisone in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher frequency of Grade 3 and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia (40.4% in MPR+R/MPR+p) compared with MPp+p (13.7%).

• Multiple myeloma: patients with at least one prior therapy

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 4 neutropenia (5.1% in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared with 0.6% in placebo/dexamethasone-treated patients). Grade 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were observed infrequently (0.6% in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared to 0.0% in placebo/dexamethasone treated patients).

The combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in multiple myeloma patients is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia (9.9% and 1.4%, respectively, in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-treated patients compared to 2.3% and 0.0% in placebo/dexamethasone-treated patients).

• Myelodysplastic syndromes patients

In myelodysplastic syndromes patients, lenalidomide is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (74.6% in lenalidomide-treated patients compared with 14.9% in patients on placebo in the phase 3 study). Grade 3 or 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were observed in 2.2% of lenalidomide-treated patients compared with 0.0% in patients on placebo). Lenalidomide is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia (37% in lenalidomide-treated patients compared with 1.5% in patients on placebo in the phase 3 study).

• Mantle cell lymphoma patients

In mantle cell lymphoma patients, lenalidomide is associated with a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (43.7% in lenalidomide-treated patients compared with 33.7% in patients in the control arm in the phase 2 study). Grade 3 or 4 febrile neutropenia episodes were observed in 6.0% of lenalidomide-treated patients compared with 2.4% in patients on control arm.

• Follicular lymphoma patients

The combination of lenalidomide with rituximab in follicular lymphoma is associated with a higher rate of Grade 3 or Grade 4 neutropenia (50.7% in lenalidomide/rituximab treated patients compared with 12.2% in placebo/rituximab treated patients). All grade 3 or 4 neutropenia were reversible through dose interruption, reduction and/or supportive care with growth factors. Additionally, febrile neutropenia was observed infrequently (2.7% in lenalidomide/rituximab treated patients compared with 0.7% in placebo/rituximab treated patients).

Lenalidomide in combination with rituximab is also associated with a higher incidence of grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia (1.4% in lenalidomide/rituximab treated patients compared to 0% in placebo/rituximab patients).

Venous thromboembolism

An increased risk of DVT and PE is associated with the use of the combination of lenalidomide with dexamethasone in patients with multiple myeloma, and to a lesser extent in patients treated with lenalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone or in patients with multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes and mantle cell lymphoma treated with lenalidomide monotherapy (see section 4.5).

Concomitant administration of erythropoietic agents or previous history of DVT may also increase thrombotic risk in these patients.

Myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction has been reported in patients receiving lenalidomide, particularly in those with known risk factors.

Haemorrhagic disorders

Haemorrhagic disorders are listed under several system organ classes: Blood and lymphatic system disorders; nervous system disorders (intracranial haemorrhage); respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders (epistaxis); gastrointestinal disorders (gingival bleeding, haemorrhoidal haemorrhage, rectal haemorrhage); renal and urinary disorders (haematuria); injury, poisoning and procedural complications (contusion) and vascular disorders (ecchymosis).

Allergic reactions and severe skin reactions

Cases of allergic reactions including angioedema, anaphylactic reaction and severe cutaneous reactions including SJS, TEN and DRESS have been reported with the use of lenalidomide. A possible cross-reaction between lenalidomide and thalidomide has been reported in the literature. Patients with a history of severe rash associated with thalidomide treatment should not receive lenalidomide (see section 4.4).

Second primary malignancies

In clinical trials in previously treated myeloma patients with lenalidomide/dexamethasone compared to controls, mainly comprising of basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers.

Acute myeloid leukaemia

• Multiple myeloma

Cases of AML have been observed in clinical trials of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in patients taking lenalidomide treatment in combination with melphalan or immediately following HDM/ASCT (see section 4.4). This increase was not observed in clinical trials of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in patients taking lenalidomide in combination with dexamethasone compared to thalidomide in combination with melphalan and prednisone.

• Myelodysplastic syndromes

Baseline variables including complex cytogenetics and TP53 mutation are associated with progression to AML in subjects who are transfusion dependent and have a Del (5q) abnormality (see section 4.4). The estimated 2-year cumulative risk of progression to AML were 13.8% in patients with an isolated Del (5q) abnormality compared to 17.3% for patients with Del (5q) and one additional cytogenetic abnormality and 38.6% in patients with a complex karyotype.

In a post-hoc analysis of a clinical trial of lenalidomide in myelodysplastic syndromes, the estimated 2-year rate of progression to AML was 27.5 % in patients with IHC-p53 positivity and 3.6% in patients with IHC- p53 negativity (p=0.0038). In the patients with IHC-p53 positivity, a lower rate of progression to AML was observed amongst patients who achieved a transfusion independence (TI) response (11.1%) compared to a non-responder (34.8%).

Hepatic disorders

The following post-marketing adverse reactions have been reported (frequency unknown): acute hepatic failure and cholestasis (both potentially fatal), toxic hepatitis, cytolytic hepatitis, mixed cytolytic/cholestatic hepatitis.

Rhabdomyolysis

Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis have been observed, some of them when lenalidomide is administered with a statin.

Thyroid disorders

Cases of hypothyroidism and cases of hyperthyroidism have been reported (see section 4.4 Thyroid disorders).

Tumour flare reaction and tumour lysis syndrome

In study MCL-002, approximately 10% of lenalidomide-treated patients experienced TFR compared to 0% in the control arm. The majority of the events occurred in cycle 1, all were assessed as treatment-related, and the majority of the reports were Grade 1 or 2. Patients with high MIPI at diagnosis or bulky disease (at least one lesion that is ≥ 7 cm in the longest diameter) at baseline may be at risk of TFR. In study MCL-002, TLS was reported for one patient in each of the two treatment arms. In the supportive study MCL-001, approximately 10% of subjects experienced TFR; all report were Grade 1 or 2 in severity and all were assessed as treatment-related. The majority of the events occurred in cycle 1. There were no reports of TLS in study MCL-001 (see section 4.4).

In study NHL-007, TFR was reported in 19/146 (13.0%) of patients in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm versus 1/148 (0.7%) patients in the placebo/rituximab arm. Most TFRs (18 out of 19) reported in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm occurred during first two cycles of treatment. One FL patient in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm experienced a Grade 3 TFR event versus no patients in the placebo/rituximab arm. In study NHL-008, 7/177 (4.0%) of FL patients experienced TFR; (3 reports were Grade 1 and 4 reports were Grade 2 severity); while 1 report was considered serious. In study NHL-007, TLS occurred in 2 FL patients (1.4%) in the lenalidomide/rituximab arm and no FL patients in the placebo/rituximab arm; neither patient had a Grade 3 or 4 events. TLS occurred in 1 FL patient (0.6%) in study NHL-008. This single event was identified as a serious, Grade 3 adverse reaction. For study NHL-007 no patients had to discontinue lenalidomide/rituximab therapy due to TFR or TLS.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Gastrointestinal perforations have been reported during treatment with lenalidomide. Gastrointestinal perforations may lead to septic complications and may be associated with fatal outcome.

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 Yellow Card Scheme. Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.

4.9. Overdose

There is no specific experience in the management of lenalidomide overdose in patients, although in dose-ranging studies some patients were exposed to up to 150 mg, and in single-dose studies, some patients were exposed to up to 400 mg. The dose limiting toxicity in these studies was essentially haematological. In the event of overdose, supportive care is advised.