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Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

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

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

Active substance: Deuruxolitinib phosphate
Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for

Leqselvi contains the active substance deuruxolitinib. It is used to treat severe alopecia areata in adults. Alopecia areata is a disease where the body's own immune system attacks hair follicles, causing inflammation that leads to hair loss on the scalp, face and/or other parts of the body. Leqselvi works by reducing the activity of enzymes called JAK1, JAK2 and TYK2 relative to JAK3 kinases, which are involved in inflammation at the hair follicle. This reduces the inflammation, leading to hair regrowth in patients with alopecia areata.

2.

What you need to know before you take it

e Leqselvi

Do not take Leqselvi if you are allergic to deuruxolitinib or any of the other ingredients of this medicine listed in section 6. if you have a serious infection ongoing, including tuberculosis. if you have severe liver problems. if you are pregnant or breast-feeding (see the "pregnancy, contraception, breast-feeding and fertility" section). Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking and during treatment with Leqselvi if you:

  • Are older than 65. Patients aged 65 years and older may be at increased risk of infections, heart problems including heart attack and some types of cancer. Your doctor will discuss with you if Leqselvi is appropriate for you. •

have a chronic or recurrent infection or have a history of a serious or opportunistic infection 1

•

have been exposed to tuberculosis or have resided or travelled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses; or

•

have underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection

•

have viral reactivation, including cases of herpes virus reactivation (e.g., herpes zoster) or have ever had hepatitis B or hepatitis C

•

have developed a cancer (other than successfully treated non-melanoma skin cancers)

•

have cardiovascular risk factors

•

are current or past smoker

•

have had blood clots in an artery (thrombosis)

•

have had lipid elevations (cholesterol), anaemia (not enough red blood cells), neutropenia (lower-than-normal levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell), and lymphopenia (few lymphocytes, white blood cells that protect you from infection)

•

have recently had or plan to have a vaccination (immunization). Certain vaccines (live vaccines) are not recommended during or immediately prior to Leqselvi treatment

Prior to Leqselvi treatment, testing patients for CYP2C9 variants to determine if they are poor metabolizers is strongly recommended. Children and adolescents This medicine is not approved for use in paediatric population because the safety and benefits of Leqselvi have not been established in paediatric patients. Other medicines and Leqselvi Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines to treat:

  • infections (herpes, hepatitis B or hepatitis C),
  • cancer,
  • heart rhythm problems,
  • headache. Leqselvi may increase the amount of these medicines in your blood. If any of the above apply to you or if you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Leqselvi. Leqselvi can be taken with food and drinks. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. Women of childbearing potential If you are a woman of childbearing potential, you should use an effective method of contraception during treatment with Leqselvi. Your doctor can advise you on suitable methods of contraception. Pregnancy Do not use Leqselvi if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby. This medicine can harm the developing baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant or think you might have become pregnant during treatment. Breast-feeding

2

Do not use Leqselvi while breast-feeding as it is not known if this medicine passes into breast milk. A risk to newborns/infants cannot be excluded. You and your doctor should decide if you will breastfeed or use this medicine. Fertility Based on animal studies, deuruxolitinib may cause foetal harm when administered during pregnancy. Consider pregnancy planning and prevention for women of reproductive potential. Driving and using machines No data are available on the ability to drive and use machines during Leqselvi treatment. Leqselvi contains lactose If you have rare hereditary problems of lactose intolerance, or sugar malabsorption , contact your doctor before taking this medicine.

3.

How to take it

Leqselvi

Always take this medicine exactly as described in this leaflet or as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. The recommended dose is 8 mg orally twice daily, with or without food. Use in children and adolescents This medicine is not recommended for children and adolescents. If you take more Leqselvi than you should If you take more Leqselvi than you should, contact your doctor. You may get some of the side effects described in section 4. If you forget to take Leqselvi Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet, and resume dosing at the next scheduled dose. If you stop taking Leqselvi You should not stop taking Leqselvi without discussing this with your doctor. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

4.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Most serious side effects: Tell your doctor or seek medical help immediately if you get the following symptoms, which may be signs of:

  • shingles (herpes zoster): painful skin rash with blisters and fever (common)
  • Pulmonary infections (e.g. COVID-19)
  • Skin and soft tissue infections which include folliculitis, impetigo, skin infection, subcutaneous abscess, furuncle, paronychia, and pustule Other side effects Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):
  • Headache
  • Acne

3

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Runny nose and score throat (Nasopharyngitis)
  • Skin infections
  • Herpes
  • Lipid elevations (cholesterol)
  • Tiredness (asthenia, hypersomnia, somnolence, and lethargy)
  • Blood creatine phosphokinase increased (enzyme shown by a blood test)
  • Weight gain Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
  • Anaemia (decrease or low red blood cell count)
  • Neutropenia (lower-than-normal levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell)
  • Lymphopenia (few lymphocytes, white blood cells that protect you from infection)
  • Thrombocytosis (high number of platelets) Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5.

How to store it

Leqselvi

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the label after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicinal product does not require any special temperature storage condition. Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Leqselvi contains

  • The active substance is deuruxolitinib. Each tablet contains 8 mg of deuruxolitinib (as phosphate).
  • The other ingredients are the following:
  • Tablet core content: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ •

Microcrystalline cellulose Lactose monohydrate Povidone K30 (E1201) Low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose Colloidal silicon dioxide Magnesium stearate Purified water

Film coating content: ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Polyvinyl alcohol Talc Titanium dioxide Glyceryl mono and dicaprylocaprate Sodium lauryl sulfate 4

▪ ▪ ▪

Fd&c blue #2 aluminum lake Carmine Purified water

What Leqselvi looks like and contents of the pack Leqselvi is a purple, round tablet of 6.5 mm diameter, debossed with "C" on one side and "8" on the other side. Each high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottle contains 60 film-coated tablets. The bottle contains a silica gel desiccant used to keep the tablets dry. Do not swallow the silica gel desiccant. Marketing Authorisation Holder SUN Pharma UK Limited 6-9 The Square, Stockley Park, Uxbridge UB11 1FW United Kingdom Manufacturer Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (Europe) B.V. Polarisavenue 87 Hoofddorp, 2132 JH, Netherlands Blind or partially sighted? Is this leaflet hard to see or read? Call 0800 198 5000 to obtain the leaflet in a format suitable

This leaflet was last revised in February 2026.

5

Frequently asked questions about Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets

How do I take Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets?

Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets comes as tablet containing 8mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets?

The active substance in Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets is deuruxolitinib phosphate.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Leqselvi 8 mg film-coated tablets without a prescription?

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

About this leaflet

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

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

Medicines with the same active substance: Deuruxolitinib phosphate (1 medicine)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Leqselvi is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with severe alopecia areata.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The recommended dosage of Leqselvi for the treatment of severe alopecia areata is 8 mg orally twice daily, with or without food.

If a dose is missed, skip the missed dose and resume dosing at the next scheduled dose.

Serious or opportunistic infections

If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt Leqselvi treatment until the infection is controlled.

Haematologic abnormalities

Recommendations for Leqselvi treatment interruption for haematologic abnormalities are described in Table 1.

Table 1: Recommendations for Leqselvi Treatment Interruption for Haematologic Abnormalities and Resumption

Laboratory Measure

Interruption Criterion

Resumption Criterion

Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC)

<500 cells/mm3

≥500 cells/mm3

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

<1000 cells/mm3

≥1000 cells/mm3

Haemoglobin

<8 g/dL

≥8 g/dL

Renal impairment

Leqselvi is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease (eGFR <30 mL/min). No adjustment of dosage is required in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment.

The effect of severe renal impairment on deuruxolitinib pharmacokinetics is unknown.

Hepatic Impairment

Leqselvi is not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child Pugh C). No adjustment of dosage is required in patients with mild (Child Pugh A) or moderate (Child Pugh B) hepatic impairment.

The effect of severe hepatic impairment on deuruxolitinib pharmacokinetics is unknown.

CYP2C9 Poor Metabolizers

Based on PBPK modelling, higher exposure of deuruxolitinib in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers is expected with concomitant use of Leqselvi, which may increase the risk of Leqselvi -associated serious adverse reactions. Before initiation of treatment with Leqselvi, test patients to determine CYP2C9 genotype.

Elderly

There are limited data in patients ≥ 65 years of age.

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of Leqselvi in children less than 18 years of age has not been established.

No data are available.

Method of administration

Oral use

Leqselvi should be swallowed with water, with or without food.

Precautions to be taken before handling or administering the medicinal product.

Perform the following prior to treatment with Leqselvi:

• CYP2C9 genotype determination: Test patients for CYP2C9 variants to determine CYP2C9 genotype. Leqselvi is contraindicated in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers (patients with decreased cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 function).

• Evaluation for use of concomitant CYP2C9 inhibitors: Leqselvi is contraindicated in patients taking moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors (see Section 4.5).

• Active and latent tuberculosis (TB) evaluation: Leqselvi treatment is not recommended in patients with active TB. For patients with latent TB or those with a negative latent TB test who are at high risk of TB, start preventive therapy for TB prior to Leqselvi treatment.

• Viral hepatitis screening in accordance with clinical guidelines: Leqselvi treatment is not recommended in patients with active hepatitis B or hepatitis C.

• Hepatitis B infection screening: If hepatitis B infection is discovered, follow hepatitis B clinical guidelines, or refer to a liver specialist. Monitor patients for reactivation in accordance with clinical guidelines during treatment.

• Complete blood count (CBC): Leqselvi treatment is not recommended in patients with an absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) <500 cells/mm3 absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <1000 cells/mm3, or haemoglobin level <8 g/dL. Monitor complete blood counts periodically during treatment and modify dosage as recommended.

• Complete any necessary immunizations, including herpes zoster vaccinations, according to current immunization guidelines prior to Leqselvi treatment.

Pharmacogenomics

Deuruxolitinib is primarily metabolized by CYP2C9 (76%) and CYP3A4 (21%). CYP2C9 activity is reduced in patients with genetic variants in CYP2C9, such as the CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 alleles. The impact of CYP2C9 genetic variants on the pharmacokinetics of deuruxolitinib has not been directly evaluated. Based on drug-drug interaction modelling data, CYP2C9 poor metabolizers (e.g., *2/*3, *3/*3) may have up to 2-fold higher concentrations of deuruxolitinib, when compared to normal metabolizers.

The pharmacokinetics of deuruxolitinib were not evaluated in individuals who are intermediate metabolizers (e.g., individuals with *1/*3 genotype).

The prevalence of the CYP2C9 poor metabolizer phenotype is approximately 2 to 3% in White populations, 0.5 to 4% in Asian populations, and <1% in Black or African American populations. Other decreased or nonfunctional CYP2C9 alleles (e.g., *5, *6, *8, *11) are more prevalent in Black or African American populations.

4.3. Contraindications

Leqselvi is contraindicated in patients who:

• Are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers (See Section 4.4).

• Are on concomitant moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors (See Section 4.4).

• Are pregnant or breast-feeding (See Section 4.6)

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

Limitations of Use

Leqselvi is not recommended for use in combination with other Janus-associated kinase (JAK) inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine, or other potent immunosuppressants.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Deuruxolitinib should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available in patients:

• 65 years of age and older;

• patients with history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or other

• cardiovascular risk factors (such as current or past long-time smokers);

• patients with malignancy risk factors (e.g. current malignancy or history of malignancy)

Serious Infections

Serious infections have been reported in subjects with alopecia areata receiving Leqselvi (see section 4.8).

Avoid use of Leqselvi in patients with an active, serious infection including localized infections.

Prior to Leqselvi treatment, consider the risks and benefits in patients:

• with chronic or recurrent infection

• who have been exposed to tuberculosis

• with a history of a serious or opportunistic infection

• who have resided or travelled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses; or

• with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection

Closely monitor patients for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with Leqselvi. If the patient develops a serious infection, interrupt treatment with Leqselvi until the infection resolves or is adequately treated.

If a patient develops a new infection during treatment with Leqselvi, initiate complete diagnostic testing appropriate for an immunocompromised patient and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

Tuberculosis

Evaluate patients for latent and active tuberculosis (TB) infection prior to Leqselvi treatment. Leqselvi is not recommended for use in patients with active TB.

Treat patients with latent TB before Leqselvi treatment. Consider anti-TB therapy prior to Leqselvi treatment in patients with previously untreated latent TB or active TB in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed, and for patients with a negative test for latent TB but who have risk factors for TB infection. Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of TB is recommended to aid in the decision about whether initiating anti-TB therapy is appropriate for an individual patient.

Monitor patients receiving Leqselvi for signs and symptoms of active TB during treatment, including patients who tested negative for latent TB infection prior to treatment.

Viral Reactivation

Viral reactivation, including cases of herpes virus reactivation (e.g., herpes zoster) were reported in clinical trials with Leqselvi. If a patient develops herpes zoster, consider interrupting Leqselvi treatment until the episode resolves.

The impact of Leqselvi on chronic viral hepatitis reactivation is unknown. Subjects with positive results for hepatitis B surface antigens (HBsAg), antibodies to hepatitis B core antigens (anti-HBc), or hepatitis C virus (HCV) with detectable HCV RNA at screening were excluded from Leqselvi clinical trials. Perform screening for viral hepatitis before treatment with Leqselvi. Leqselvi is not recommended for use in patients with active hepatitis B or hepatitis C (HCV RNA detected).

If non-active hepatitis B infection is discovered, monitoring for reactivation or prophylactic treatment is recommended. Follow hepatitis B clinical guidelines or refer to a liver specialist. Hepatitis B viral load (HBV-DNA titer) increase, with or without associated elevations in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, has been reported in subjects with chronic HBV infections receiving JAK inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. The effect of Leqselvi on viral replication in patients with chronic HBV infection is unknown.

Mortality

In a large, randomized, post-marketing safety trial of another JAK inhibitor in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) subjects 50 years and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, a higher rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden cardiovascular death, was observed in subjects treated with the JAK inhibitor compared with TNF blockers.

Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to and during treatment with Leqselvi.

Malignancy and Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Malignancies were observed in clinical trials of Leqselvi.

In a large, randomized, post-marketing safety trial of another JAK inhibitor in subjects with RA, a higher rate of malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)) was observed in subjects treated with the JAK inhibitor compared to those treated with TNF blockers. A higher rate of lymphomas was observed in subjects treated with the JAK inhibitor compared to those treated with TNF blockers. A higher rate of lung cancers was observed in current or past smokers treated with the JAK inhibitor compared to those treated with TNF blockers. In this trial, current or past smokers had an additional increased risk of overall malignancies.

Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to and during treatment with Leqselvi, particularly in patients with a known malignancy (other than successfully treated NMSC), patients who develop a malignancy, and patients who are current or past smokers.

Non-melanoma skin cancers

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) have been reported in patients treated with Leqselvi. Periodic skin examination is recommended for patients who are at increased risk for skin cancer.

Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE)

In a large, randomized, post-marketing safety trial of another JAK inhibitor in subjects with RA 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, a higher rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and non-fatal stroke was observed with the JAK inhibitor compared to those treated with TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk.

Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to and during treatment with Leqselvi, particularly in patients who are current or past smokers and patients with other cardiovascular risk factors. Inform patients about the symptoms of serious cardiovascular events and the steps to take if they occur. Discontinue Leqselvi in patients that have experienced a myocardial infarction or stroke.

Thrombosis

Thrombosis, including pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT) have been reported in clinical trials of deuruxolitinib. There was no clear relationship between platelet count elevations and thrombotic events.

Thrombosis, including DVT, PE, and arterial thrombosis have been reported in subjects receiving JAK inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. Many of these adverse reactions were serious and some resulted in death.

In a large, randomized, post-marketing safety trial of another JAK inhibitor in subjects with RA 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, higher rates of overall thrombosis, DVT, and PE were observed compared to those treated with TNF blockers.

Avoid Leqselvi in patients who may be at increased risk of thrombosis. If symptoms of thrombosis occur, discontinue Leqselvi and evaluate and treat patients appropriately.

Increased risk of Leqselvi-associated serious adverse reactions in CYP2C9 poor metabolizers or with concomitant use of moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors

Higher plasma concentrations of deuruxolitinib, which may increase the risk of Leqselvi- associated serious adverse reactions such as thrombosis, may occur when Leqselvi is used in patients who:

• Are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers.

• Are on a concomitant moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitor.

Prior to Leqselvi treatment, test patients for CYP2C9 variants to determine if they are poor metabolizers (see section 4.2). A test for the detection of CYP2C9 variants to direct the use of Leqselvi is not currently available.

Leqselvi is contraindicated in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers or patients who are on concomitant moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors. See section 4.3.

Gastrointestinal Perforations

Gastrointestinal perforations have been reported in clinical trials with Leqselvi.

Monitor patients treated with Leqselvi who may be at increased risk for gastrointestinal perforation (e.g., patients with a history of diverticulitis). Evaluate promptly patients presenting with new onset abdominal symptoms for early identification of gastrointestinal perforation.

Lipid Elevations, Anaemia, Neutropoenia, and Lymphopenia

Perform a CBC prior to and periodically during treatment with Leqselvi.

Lipid elevations

Treatment with Leqselvi was associated with increases in triglycerides and total cholesterol, including HDL-C and LDL-C. The effect of these lipid parameter elevations on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined. Perform assessment of lipid parameters at baseline and periodically during treatment with Leqselvi. Manage patients according to clinical guidelines for hyperlipidaemia.

Anaemia

Treatment with Leqselvi was associated with an increased incidence of anaemia (haemoglobin less than 8 g/dL) compared to placebo. Avoid or interrupt Leqselvi treatment in patients with haemoglobin less than 8 g/dL.

Neutropenia

Treatment with Leqselvi was associated with an increased incidence of neutropenia (ANC less than 1000 cells/mm3) compared to placebo. Avoid or interrupt Leqselvi treatment in patients with an ANC less than 1000 cells/mm3.

Lymphopenia

Treatment with Leqselvi was associated with an increased incidence of lymphopenia (ALC less than 500 cells/mm3) compared to placebo. Avoid or interrupt Leqselvi treatment in patients with an ALC less than 500 cells/mm3.

Immunizations

Prior to Leqselvi treatment, complete all necessary immunizations, including varicella zoster or prophylactic herpes zoster vaccinations, in accordance with current immunization guidelines. Avoid use of live vaccines during or immediately prior to Leqselvi treatment.

Elderly

There are limited data in patients ≥ 65 years of age. Considering the increased risk of MACE, malignancies, serious infections, and all-cause mortality in patients 65 years of age and older, as observed in a large randomised study of tofacitinib (another JAK inhibitor), deuruxolitinib should only be used in these patients if no suitable treatment alternatives are available.

Paediatric population

The safety and effectiveness of Leqselvi have not been established in paediatric patients.

Excipients with known effect

Lactose

Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product.

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

Effect of other drugs on Leqselvi

Strong CYP3A and moderate or strong CYP2C9 inducers:

Avoid concomitant use of Leqselvi with strong CYP3A (e.g. barbiturates, carbamazepine, efavirenz, glucocorticoids, modafinil, nevirapine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, pioglitazone, rifabutin, rifampin, St. John's Wort, troglitazone) and moderate or strong CYP2C9 inducers (e.g. enzalutamide, rifampin).

Deuruxolitinib is a CYP2C9 and CYP3A substrate. Concomitant use with a strong CYP3A and moderate or strong CYP2C9 inducer decreases deuruxolitinib exposure (Cmax and AUC), which may reduce Leqselvi efficacy. See section 5.2.

Moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors:

Leqselvi is contraindicated in patients taking moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g. amiodarone, fluconazole, miconazole, sulphaphenazole, piperine). See section 4.3.

Deuruxolitinib is a CYP2C9 substrate. Concomitant use with a moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitor is estimated to increase deuruxolitinib exposure (Cmax and AUC), which may increase the risk of Leqselvi serious adverse reactions such as thrombosis. See section 5.2.

Paediatric population

Interaction studies have only been performed in adults.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Women of childbearing potential

Deuruxolitinib is not recommended in women of childbearing potential not using contraception. Women of childbearing potential have to use effective contraception during treatment.

Pregnancy

There are no or limited data from the use of deuruxolitinib in pregnant women. Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3).

Leqselvi is contraindicated during pregnancy (see section 4.3).

Based on animal studies, deuruxolitinib may cause foetal harm when administered during pregnancy. Consider pregnancy planning and prevention for females of reproductive potential.

Breast-feeding

Available toxicological data in animals have shown excretion of deuruxolitinib in milk (see section 5.3). A risk to newborns/infants cannot be excluded.

Leqselvi is contraindicated during breast-feeding (see section 4.3).

Fertility

The effect of deuruxolitinib on human fertility has not been evaluated. There were no effects on fertility in rats at clinically relevant exposures (see section 5.3).

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

No data are available on the ability to drive and use machines during Leqselvi treatment.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

The safety of Leqselvi was evaluated in three randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (including a dose-ranging trial), two open-label trials, and two long-term extension trials in adult subjects with severe alopecia areata. These subjects had at least 50% scalp hair loss as measured by the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) for more than six months.

The most frequently (>1%) reported adverse reactions are headache, nasopharyngitis, acne, nasopharyngitis, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, hyperlipidemia, fatigue, weight increased, lymphopenia, thrombocytosis, anemia, skin and soft tissue infections, neutropenia, and herpes.

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

A total of 1,730 subjects with alopecia areata were treated across all trials, representing 1,962.9 patient-years of exposure. There were 974 subjects who were exposed to either Leqselvi 8 mg (326 subjects) or deuruxolitinib 12 mg (454 subjects) for at least 1 year and 104 subjects who were exposed for at least 3 years.

Table 2 lists all adverse reactions observed in alopecia areata placebo-controlled studies presented by system organ class and frequency, using the following categories: very common (≥ 1/10); common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10); uncommon (≥ 1/1000 to < 1/100); rare (≥ 1/10 000 to < 1/1 000); very rare (< 1/10 000). Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

Table 2: Adverse Reactions

System Organ Class

Very Common

(≥ 1/10)

≥ 10%

Common

(≥ 1/100 to < 1/10)

[1% - 10%[

Uncommon

(≥ 1/1 000 to < 1/100)

[0.1% - 1%[

Infection and infestations

Nasopharyngitis –Skin and soft tissue infections 1

Herpes 2

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

Anemia 3

Neutropenia 4

Lymphopenia

Thrombocytosis 5

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Hyperlipidemia 6

Nervous system disorders

Headache

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Acne 7

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

Fatigue 8

Investigations

Blood creatine phosphokinase increased

Weight increased

1. Skin and soft issue infections includes: folliculitis, impetigo, skin infection, subcutaneous abscess, furuncle, paronychia, and pustule.

2. Herpes includes: oral herpes, herpes simplex, genital herpes simplex, and nasal herpes.

3. Anemia includes: anemia, hematocrit decreased, hemoglobin decreased, iron deficiency anemia, and red blood cell count decreased.

4. Neutropenia includes: neutropenia and neutrophil count decreased.

5. Thrombocytosis includes: thrombocytosis and platelet count increased.

6. Hyperlipidemia includes: blood cholesterol increased, low density lipoprotein increased, blood triglycerides increased, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and dyslipidaemia.

7. Acne includes: acne, dermatitis acneiform, and acne pustular.

8. Fatigue includes: fatigue, asthenia, hypersomnia, somnolence, and lethargy.

Description of selected adverse reactions (0-52 weeks)

All Infections

During the 24-week treatment period, infections were reported in 97 subjects (88.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 222 subjects (101.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 153 subjects (117.0 per 100 patient years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, infections were reported in 435 subjects (95.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 408 subjects (74.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Serious Infections

During the 24-week treatment period, serious infections were reported in 1 subject (0.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 5 subjects (1.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 2 subjects (1.2 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, serious infections were reported in 5 subjects (0.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 4 subjects (0.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Herpes Zoster

During the 24-week treatment period, opportunistic infections (herpes zoster) were reported in 0 subjects treated with placebo, 3 subjects (1.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 3 subjects (1.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, herpes zoster was reported in 10 subjects (1.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 15 subjects (1.9 per 100 patient- years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Malignancies

During the 0-52 week period, malignancy excluding NMSC was reported in 3 subjects (0.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 4 subjects (0.5 per 100 patient- years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Thrombosis

During the 0-52 week period, thrombosis was reported in 0 subjects treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 1 subject (0.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily who developed bilateral pulmonary embolism.

Anaemia

During the 24-week treatment period, anaemia was reported in 3 subjects (2.3 per 100 patient- years) treated with placebo, 19 subjects (6.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 16 subjects (9.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, anaemia was reported in 17 subjects (2.6 per 100 patient- years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 38 subjects (5.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Neutropenia

During the 24-week treatment period, neutropenia was reported in 3 subjects (2.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 10 subjects (3.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 10 subjects (6.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, neutropenia was reported in 11 subjects (1.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 15 subjects (1.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Lymphopenia

During the 24-week treatment period, lymphopenia was reported in 2 subjects (1.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 2 subjects (0.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 7 subjects (4.2 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, lymphopenia was reported in 4 subjects (0.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 10 subjects (1.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Lipid Elevations

During the 24-week treatment period, lipid elevations were reported in 10 subjects (7.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 30 subjects (11.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 18 subjects (10.9 per 100 patient years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, lipid elevations were reported in 47 subjects (7.2 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 66 subjects (8.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) Elevations

During the 24-week treatment period, CPK elevations were reported in 7 subjects (5.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 35 subjects (12.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 27 subjects (16.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily. During the 0-52 week period, CPK elevations were reported in 49 subjects (7.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 46 subjects (6.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Thrombocytosis

During the 24-week treatment period, an increase in platelet count was reported in 0 subjects treated with placebo, 18 subjects (6.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 6 subjects (3.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

During the 0-52 week period, an increase in platelet count was reported in 20 subjects (3.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with Leqselvi 8 mg twice daily and 26 subjects (3.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily.

Description of selected adverse reactions (observed after 52 weeks)

Thrombosis

Venous thromboembolic events were reported in 4 subjects treated with deuruxolitinib 12 mg twice daily between Week 52 and Week 98. These 4 subjects experienced 7 thrombotic events (0.2 per 100 patient-years), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), bilateral pulmonary embolism (PE), pulmonary embolism, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT).

Paediatric population

The safety of Leqselvi has not been established in paediatric patients.

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 the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

There is no experience regarding human overdose with Leqselvi.

There is no specific antidote for overdose with Leqselvi. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of adverse reactions.

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