Aldara

Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATIONThese highlights do not include all the information needed to use Aldara safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for Aldara. Aldara (imiquimod) Cream 5% For topical use only Initial U.S. Approval: 1997INDICATIONS AND USAGEAldara Cream is indicated for the topical treatment of: Clinically typical, nonhyperkeratotic, nonhypertrophic actinic keratoses (AK) on the face or scalp in immunocompetent adults (1.1) Biopsy-confirmed, primary superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) in immunocompetent adults; maximum tumor diameter of 2.0 cm on trunk, neck, or extremities (excluding hands and feet), only when surgical methods are medically less appropriate and patient follow-up can be reasonably assured (1.2) External genital and perianal warts/condyloma acuminata in patients 12 years old or older (1.3) Limitations of Use: Efficacy was not demonstrated for molluscum contagiosum in children aged 2–12 (1.4, 8.4)DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATIONAldara Cream is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.(2) Actinic keratosis: 2 times per week for a full 16 weeks (2.1) Superficial basal cell carcinoma: 5 times per week for a full 6 weeks (2.2) External genital warts (EGW): 3 times per week until total clearance or a maximum of 16 weeks (2.3) DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Aldara (imiquimod) Cream, 5%, is supplied in single-use packets (12 per box), each of which contains 250 mg of the cream, equivalent to 12.5 mg of imiquimod. (3) CONTRAINDICATIONS None (4) WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Intense local inflammatory reactions can occur (e.g., skin weeping, erosion). Dosing interruption may be required (2, 5.1, 6) Severe local inflammatory reactions of the female external genitalia can lead to severe vulvar swelling. Severe vulvar swelling can lead to urinary retention; dosing should be interrupted or discontinued. Flu-like systemic signs and symptoms including malaise, fever, nausea, myalgias and rigors may occur. Dosing interruption may be required (2, 5.2, 6) Avoid exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. Wear sunscreen daily (5.3). Safety and efficacy have not been established for repeat courses of treatment to the same area for AK. (5.4) Aldara Cream is not recommended for treatment of BCC subtypes other than the superficial variant, i.e., sBCC. (5.5) Treatment of urethral, intra-vaginal, cervical, rectal or intra-anal viral disease is not recommended. (5.6) Safety and efficacy in immunosuppressed patients have not been established (1.5) Side EffectsMost common adverse reactions (incidence >28%) are application site reactions or local skin reactions: itching, burning, erythema, flaking/scaling/dryness, scabbing/crusting, edema, induration, excoriation, erosion, ulceration. Other reported reactions (≥ 1%) include fatigue, fever, and headache (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Medicis, The Dermatology Company at 1-800-328-0255 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*

• 1 ALDARA INDICATIONS AND USAGE
  • 1.1 Actinic Keratosis
  • 1.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
  • 1.3 External Genital Warts
  • 1.4 Limitations of Use
  • 1.5 Unevaluated Populations
• 2 ALDARA DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
  • 2.1 Actinic Keratosis
  • 2.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
  • 2.3 External Genital Warts
• 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
• 4 ALDARA CONTRAINDICATIONS
• 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
  • 5.1 Local Inflammatory Reactions
  • 5.2 Systemic Reactions
  • 5.3 Ultraviolet Light Exposure
  • 5.4 Unevaluated Aldara Uses: Actinic Keratosis
  • 5.5 Unevaluated Aldara Uses: Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
  • 5.6 Unevaluated Aldara Uses: External Genital Warts
• 6 ALDARA ADVERSE REACTIONS
  • 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience: Actinic Keratosis
  • 6.2 Clinical Trials Experience: Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
  • 6.3 Clinical Trials Experience: External Genital Warts
  • 6.4 Clinical Trials Experience: Dermal Safety Studies
  • 6.5 Postmarketing Experience
• 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
  • 8.1 Pregnancy
  • 8.3 Nursing Mothers
  • 8.4 Pediatric Use
  • 8.5 Geriatric Use
• 10 OVERDOSAGE
• 11 ALDARA DESCRIPTION
• 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
  • 12.1 Mechanism of Action
  • 12.2 Pharmacodynamics
  • 12.3 Pharmacokinetics
• 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
  • 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
• 14 CLINICAL STUDIES
  • 14.1 Actinic Keratosis
  • 14.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
  • 14.3 External Genital Warts
• 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
• 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Actinic Keratosis

Aldara Cream is indicated for the topical treatment of clinically typical, nonhyperkeratotic, nonhypertrophic actinic keratoses on the face or scalp in immunocompetent adults.

1.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

Aldara Cream is indicated for the topical treatment of biopsy-confirmed, primary superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) in immunocompetent adults, with a maximum tumor diameter of 2.0 cm, located on the trunk (excluding anogenital skin), neck, or extremities (excluding hands and feet), only when surgical methods are medically less appropriate and patient follow-up can be reasonably assured.

The histological diagnosis of superficial basal cell carcinoma should be established prior to treatment, since safety and efficacy of Aldara Cream have not been established for other types of basal cell carcinomas, including nodular and morpheaform (fibrosing or sclerosing) types.

1.3 External Genital Warts

Aldara Cream is indicated for the treatment of external genital and perianal warts/condyloma acuminata in patients 12 years old or older.

1.4 Limitations of Use

Aldara Cream has been evaluated in children ages 2 to 12 years with molluscum contagiosum and these studies failed to demonstrate efficacy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

1.5 Unevaluated Populations

The safety and efficacy of Aldara Cream in immunosuppressed patients have not been established.

Aldara Cream should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing autoimmune conditions.

The efficacy and safety of Aldara Cream have not been established for patients with Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome or Xeroderma Pigmentosum.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

The application frequency for Aldara Cream is different for each indication.

Aldara is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.

2.1 Actinic Keratosis

Aldara Cream should be applied 2 times per week for a full 16 weeks to a defined treatment area on the face or scalp (but not both concurrently). The treatment area is defined as one contiguous area of approximately 25 cm² (e.g., 5 cm × 5 cm) on the face (e.g. forehead or one cheek) or on the scalp. Examples of 2 times per week application schedules are Monday and Thursday, or Tuesday and Friday. Aldara Cream should be applied to the entire treatment area and rubbed in until the cream is no longer visible. No more than one packet of Aldara Cream should be applied to the contiguous treatment area at each application. Aldara Cream should be applied prior to normal sleeping hours and left on the skin for approximately 8 hours, after which time the cream should be removed by washing the area with mild soap and water. The prescriber should demonstrate the proper application technique to maximize the benefit of Aldara Cream therapy.

It is recommended that patients wash their hands before and after applying Aldara Cream. Before applying the cream, the patient should wash the treatment area with mild soap and water and allow the area to dry thoroughly (at least 10 minutes).

Contact with the eyes, lips and nostrils should be avoided.

Local skin reactions in the treatment area are common [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.5)]. A rest period of several days may be taken if required by the patient's discomfort or severity of the local skin reaction. However, the treatment period should not be extended beyond 16 weeks due to missed doses or rest periods. Response to treatment cannot be adequately assessed until resolution of local skin reactions. Lesions that do not respond to treatment should be carefully re-evaluated and management reconsidered.

Aldara Cream is packaged in single-use packets, with 12 packets supplied per box. Patients should be prescribed no more than 36 packets for the 16-week treatment period. Unused packets should be discarded. Partially-used packets should be discarded and not reused.

2.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

Aldara Cream should be applied 5 times per week for a full 6 weeks to a biopsy-confirmed superficial basal cell carcinoma. An example of a 5 times per week application schedule is to apply Aldara Cream, once per day, Monday through Friday. Aldara Cream should be applied prior to normal sleeping hours and left on the skin for approximately 8 hours, after which time the cream should be removed by washing the area with mild soap and water. The prescriber should demonstrate the proper application technique to maximize the benefit of Aldara Cream therapy.

It is recommended that patients wash their hands before and after applying Aldara Cream. The patient should wash the treatment area with mild soap and water before applying the cream, and allow the area to dry thoroughly.

The target tumor should have a maximum diameter of 2 cm and be located on the trunk (excluding anogenital skin), neck, or extremities (excluding hands and feet). The treatment area should include a 1 cm margin of skin around the tumor. Sufficient cream should be applied to cover the treatment area, including 1 centimeter of skin surrounding the tumor. Aldara Cream should be rubbed into the treatment area until the cream is no longer visible.

Contact with the eyes, lips and nostrils should be avoided.

Local skin reactions in the treatment area are common [see Adverse Reactions (6.2, 6.5)]. A rest period of several days may be taken if required by the patient's discomfort or severity of the local skin reaction.

Early clinical clearance cannot be adequately assessed until resolution of local skin reactions (e.g. 12 weeks post-treatment). Local skin reactions or other findings (e.g. infection) may require that a patient be seen sooner than the post-treatment assessment for clinical clearance. If there is clinical evidence of persistent tumor at the post-treatment assessment for clinical clearance, a biopsy or other alternative intervention should be considered. Lesions that do not respond to therapy should be carefully re-evaluated and management reconsidered; the safety and efficacy of a repeat course of Aldara Cream treatment have not been established. If any suspicious lesion arises in the treatment area at any time after a determination of clinical clearance, the patient should seek a medical evaluation [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

Aldara Cream is packaged in single-use packets, with 12 packets supplied per box. Patients should be prescribed no more than 36 packets for the 6-week treatment period. Unused packets should be discarded. Partially-used packets should be discarded and not reused.

2.3 External Genital Warts

Aldara Cream should be applied 3 times per week to external genital/perianal warts. Aldara Cream treatment should continue until there is total clearance of the genital/perianal warts or for a maximum of 16 weeks. Examples of 3 times per week application schedules are: Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. Aldara Cream should be applied prior to normal sleeping hours and left on the skin for 6 –10 hours, after which time the cream should be removed by washing the area with mild soap and water. The prescriber should demonstrate the proper application technique to maximize the benefit of Aldara Cream therapy.

It is recommended that patients wash their hands before and after applying Aldara Cream.

A thin layer of Aldara Cream should be applied to the wart area and rubbed in until the cream is no longer visible. The application site should not be occluded. Following the treatment period the cream should be removed by washing the treated area with mild soap and water.

Local skin reactions at the treatment site are common [see Adverse Reactions (6.3, 6.5)]. A rest period of several days may be taken if required by the patient's discomfort or severity of the local skin reaction. Treatment may resume once the reaction subsides. Non-occlusive dressings such as cotton gauze or cotton underwear may be used in the management of skin reactions.

Aldara Cream is packaged in single-use packets which contain sufficient cream to cover a wart area of up to 20 cm²; use of excessive amounts of cream should be avoided.

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

Aldara (imiquimod) Cream, 5%, is supplied in single-use packets each of which contains 250 mg of the cream, equivalent to 12.5 mg of imiquimod. Aldara Cream is supplied in boxes of 12 packets each.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

None.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Local Inflammatory Reactions

Intense local inflammatory reactions including skin weeping or erosion can occur after few applications of Aldara Cream and may require an interruption of dosing [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Adverse Reactions (6)]. Aldara Cream has the potential to exacerbate inflammatory conditions of the skin, including chronic graft versus host disease.

Severe local inflammatory reactions of the female external genitalia can lead to severe vulvar swelling.

Severe vulvar swelling can lead to urinary retention. Dosing should be interrupted or discontinued for severe vulvar swelling.

Administration of Aldara Cream is not recommended until the skin is completely healed from any previous drug or surgical treatment.

5.2 Systemic Reactions

Flu-like signs and symptoms may accompany, or even precede, local inflammatory reactions and may include malaise, fever, nausea, myalgias and rigors. An interruption of dosing should be considered [see Adverse Reactions (6)].

5.3 Ultraviolet Light Exposure

Exposure to sunlight (including sunlamps) should be avoided or minimized during use of Aldara Cream because of concern for heightened sunburn susceptibility. Patients should be warned to use protective clothing (e.g., a hat) when using Aldara Cream. Patients with sunburn should be advised not to use Aldara Cream until fully recovered. Patients who may have considerable sun exposure, e.g. due to their occupation, and those patients with inherent sensitivity to sunlight should exercise caution when using Aldara Cream.

Aldara Cream shortened the time to skin tumor formation in an animal photoco-carcinogenicity study [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. The enhancement of ultraviolet carcinogenicity is not necessarily dependent on phototoxic mechanisms. Therefore, patients should minimize or avoid natural or artificial sunlight exposure.

5.4 Unevaluated Uses: Actinic Keratosis

Safety and efficacy have not been established for Aldara Cream in the treatment of actinic keratosis with repeated use, i.e. more than one treatment course, in the same area.

The safety of Aldara Cream applied to areas of skin greater than 25 cm² (e.g. 5 cm × 5 cm) for the treatment of actinic keratosis has not been established [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.5 Unevaluated Uses: Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

The safety and efficacy of Aldara Cream have not been established for other types of basal cell carcinomas (BCC), including nodular and morpheaform (fibrosing or sclerosing) types. Aldara Cream is not recommended for treatment of BCC subtypes other than the superficial variant (i.e., sBCC). Patients with sBCC treated with Aldara Cream should have regular follow-up of the treatment site [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

The safety and efficacy of treating sBCC lesions on the face, head and anogenital area have not been established.

5.6 Unevaluated Uses: External Genital Warts

Aldara Cream has not been evaluated for the treatment of urethral, intra-vaginal, cervical, rectal, or intra-anal human papilloma viral disease.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

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

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience: Actinic Keratosis

The data described below reflect exposure to Aldara Cream or vehicle in 436 subjects enrolled in two double-blind, vehicle-controlled studies. Subjects applied Aldara Cream or vehicle to a 25 cm² contiguous treatment area on the face or scalp 2 times per week for 16 weeks.

Local skin reactions were collected independently of the adverse reaction "application site reaction" in an effort to provide a better picture of the specific types of local reactions that might be seen. The most frequently reported local skin reactions were erythema, flaking/scaling/dryness, and scabbing/crusting. The prevalence and severity of local skin reactions that occurred during controlled studies are shown in the following table.

Table 4: Local Skin Reactions in the Treatment Area as Assessed by the Investigator (Actinic Keratosis)

	Aldara Cream (n=215)		Vehicle (n=220)
	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe
Erythema	209 (97%)	38 (18%)	206 (93%)	5 (2%)
Flaking/Scaling/Dryness	199 (93%)	16 (7%)	199 (91%)	7 (3%)
Scabbing/Crusting	169 (79%)	18 (8%)	92 (42%)	4 (2%)
Edema	106 (49%)	0 (0%)	22 (10%)	0 (0%)
Erosion/Ulceration	103 (48%)	5 (2%)	20 (9%)	0 (0%)
Weeping/Exudate	45 (22%)	0 (0%)	3 (1%)	0 (0%)
Vesicles	19 (9%)	0 (0%)	2 (1%)	0 (0%)

The adverse reactions that most frequently resulted in clinical intervention (e.g., rest periods, withdrawal from study) were local skin and application site reactions. Overall, in the clinical studies, 2% (5/215) of subjects discontinued for local skin/application site reactions. Of the 215 subjects treated, 35 subjects (16%) on Aldara Cream and 3 of 220 subjects (1%) on vehicle cream had at least one rest period. Of these Aldara Cream subjects, 32 (91%) resumed therapy after a rest period.

In the AK studies, 22 of 678 (3.2%) of Aldara-treated subjects developed treatment site infections that required a rest period off Aldara Cream and were treated with antibiotics (19 with oral and 3 with topical).

Of the 206 Aldara subjects with both baseline and 8-week post-treatment scarring assessments, 6 (2.9%) had a greater degree of scarring scores at 8-weeks post-treatment than at baseline.

6.2 Clinical Trials Experience: Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

The data described below reflect exposure to Aldara Cream or vehicle in 364 subjects enrolled in two double-blind, vehicle-controlled studies. Subjects applied Aldara Cream or vehicle 5 times per week for 6 weeks. The incidence of adverse reactions reported by > 1% of subjects during the studies is summarized below.

The most frequently reported adverse reactions were local skin and application site reactions including erythema, edema, induration, erosion, flaking/scaling, scabbing/crusting, itching and burning at the application site. The incidence of application site reactions reported by > 1% of the subjects during the 6 week treatment period is summarized in the table below.

Local skin reactions were collected independently of the adverse reaction "application site reaction" in an effort to provide a better picture of the specific types of local reactions that might be seen. The prevalence and severity of local skin reactions that occurred during controlled studies are shown in the following table.

Table 7: Local Skin Reactions in the Treatment Area as Assessed by the Investigator (Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma)

	Aldara Cream n=184		Vehicle n=178
	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe
Erythema	184 (100%)	57 (31%)	173 (97%)	4 (2%)
Flaking/Scaling	167 (91%)	7 (4%)	135 (76%)	0 (0%)
Induration	154 (84%)	11 (6%)	94 (53%)	0 (0%)
Scabbing/Crusting	152 (83%)	35 (19%)	61 (34%)	0 (0%)
Edema	143 (78%)	13 (7%)	64 (36%)	0 (0%)
Erosion	122 (66%)	23 (13%)	25 (14%)	0 (0%)
Ulceration	73 (40%)	11 (6%)	6 (3%)	0 (0%)
Vesicles	57 (31%)	3 (2%)	4 (2%)	0 (0%)

The adverse reactions that most frequently resulted in clinical intervention (e.g., rest periods, withdrawal from study) were local skin and application site reactions; 10% (19/185) of subjects received rest periods. The average number of doses not received per subject due to rest periods was 7 doses with a range of 2 to 22 doses; 79% of subjects (15/19) resumed therapy after a rest period. Overall, in the clinical studies, 2% (4/185) of subjects discontinued for local skin/application site reactions.

In the sBCC studies, 17 of 1266 (1.3%) Aldara-treated subjects developed treatment site infections that required a rest period and treatment with antibiotics.

6.3 Clinical Trials Experience: External Genital Warts

In controlled clinical trials for genital warts, the most frequently reported adverse reactions were local skin and application site reactions.

Some subjects also reported systemic reactions. Overall, 1.2% (4/327) of the subjects discontinued due to local skin/application site reactions. The incidence and severity of local skin reactions during controlled clinical trials are shown in the following table.

Table 8: Local Skin Reactions in the Treatment Area as Assessed by the Investigator (External Genital Warts)

	Aldara Cream				Vehicle
	Females n=114		Males n=156		Females n=99		Males n=157
	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe	All GradesMild, Moderate, or Severe	Severe
Erythema	74 (65%)	4 (4%)	90 (58%)	6 (4%)	21 (21%)	0 (0%)	34 (22%)	0 (0%)
Erosion	35 (31%)	1 (1%)	47 (30%)	2 (1%)	8 (8%)	0 (0%)	10 (6%)	0 (0%)
Excoriation/ Flaking	21 (18%)	0 (0%)	40 (26%)	1 (1%)	8 (8%)	0 (0%)	12 (8%)	0 (0%)
Edema	20 (18%)	1 (1%)	19 (12%)	0 (0%)	5 (5%)	0 (0%)	1 (1%)	0 (0%)
Scabbing	4 (4%)	0 (0%)	20 (13%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	4 (3%)	0 (0%)
Induration	6 (5%)	0 (0%)	11 (7%)	0 (0%)	2 (2%)	0 (0%)	3 (2%)	0 (0%)
Ulceration	9 (8%)	3 (3%)	7 (4%)	0 (0%)	1 (1%)	0 (0%)	1 (1%)	0 (0%)
Vesicles	3 (3%)	0 (0%)	3 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)

Remote site skin reactions were also reported. The severe remote site skin reactions reported for females were erythema (3%), ulceration (2%), and edema (1%); and for males, erosion (2%), and erythema, edema, induration, and excoriation/flaking (each 1%).

Selected adverse reactions judged to be probably or possibly related to Aldara Cream are listed below.

Adverse reactions judged to be possibly or probably related to Aldara Cream and reported by more than 1% of subjects included:

Application Site Disorders: burning, hypopigmentation, irritation, itching, pain, rash, sensitivity, soreness, stinging, tenderness.

Remote Site Reactions: bleeding, burning, itching, pain, tenderness, tinea cruris.

Body as a Whole: fatigue, fever, influenza-like symptoms.

Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders: headache.

Gastro-Intestinal System Disorders: diarrhea.

Musculo-Skeletal System Disorders: myalgia.

6.4 Clinical Trials Experience: Dermal Safety Studies

Provocative repeat insult patch test studies involving induction and challenge phases produced no evidence that Aldara Cream causes photoallergenicity or contact sensitization in healthy skin; however, cumulative irritancy testing revealed the potential for Aldara Cream to cause irritation, and application site reactions were reported in the clinical studies [see Adverse Reactions (6)].

6.5 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Aldara Cream. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Application Site Disorders: tingling at the application site.

Body as a Whole: angioedema.

Cardiovascular: capillary leak syndrome, cardiac failure, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary edema, arrhythmias (tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, palpitations), chest pain, ischemia, myocardial infarction, syncope.

Endocrine: thyroiditis.

Gastro-Intestinal System Disorders: abdominal pain.

Hematological: decreases in red cell, white cell and platelet counts (including idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura), lymphoma.

Hepatic: abnormal liver function.

Infections and Infestations: herpes simplex.

Musculo-Skeletal System Disorders: arthralgia.

Neuropsychiatric: agitation, cerebrovascular accident, convulsions (including febrile convulsions), depression, insomnia, multiple sclerosis aggravation, paresis, suicide.

Respiratory: dyspnea.

Urinary System Disorders: proteinuria, dysuria, urinary retention.

Skin and Appendages: exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic scar.

Vascular: Henoch-Schonlein purpura syndrome.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C:

Note: The Maximum Recommended Human Dose (MRHD) was set at 2 packets per treatment of Aldara Cream (25 mg imiquimod) for the animal multiple of human exposure ratios presented in this label. If higher doses than 2 packets of Aldara Cream are used clinically, then the animal multiple of human exposure would be reduced for that dose. A non-proportional increase in systemic exposure with increased dose of Aldara Cream was noted in the clinical pharmacokinetic study conducted in actinic keratosis subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The AUC after topical application of 6 packets of Aldara Cream was 8 fold greater than the AUC after topical application of 2 packets of Aldara Cream in actinic keratosis subjects. Therefore, if a dose of 6 packets per treatment of Aldara Cream was topically administered to an individual, then the animal multiple of human exposure would be either 1/3 of the value provided in the label (based on body surface area comparisons) or 1/8 of the value provided in the label (based on AUC comparisons). The animal multiples of human exposure calculations were based on weekly dose comparisons for the carcinogenicity studies described in this label. The animal multiples of human exposure calculations were based on daily dose comparisons for the reproductive toxicology studies described in this label.

Systemic embryofetal development studies were conducted in rats and rabbits. Oral doses of 1, 5 and 20 mg/kg/day imiquimod were administered during the period of organogenesis (gestational days 6–15) to pregnant female rats. In the presence of maternal toxicity, fetal effects noted at 20 mg/kg/day (577× MRHD based on AUC comparisons) included increased resorptions, decreased fetal body weights, delays in skeletal ossification, bent limb bones, and two fetuses in one litter (2 of 1567 fetuses) demonstrated exencephaly, protruding tongues and low-set ears. No treatment related effects on embryofetal toxicity or teratogenicity were noted at 5 mg/kg/day (98× MRHD based on AUC comparisons).

Intravenous doses of 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg/day imiquimod were administered during the period of organogenesis (gestational days 6–18) to pregnant female rabbits. No treatment related effects on embryofetal toxicity or teratogenicity were noted at 2 mg/kg/day (1.5× MRHD based on BSA comparisons), the highest dose evaluated in this study, or 1 mg/kg/day (407× MRHD based on AUC comparisons).

A combined fertility and peri- and post-natal development study was conducted in rats. Oral doses of 1, 1.5, 3 and 6 mg/kg/day imiquimod were administered to male rats from 70 days prior to mating through the mating period and to female rats from 14 days prior to mating through parturition and lactation. No effects on growth, fertility, reproduction or post-natal development were noted at doses up to 6 mg/kg/day (87× MRHD based on AUC comparisons), the highest dose evaluated in this study. In the absence of maternal toxicity, bent limb bones were noted in the F1 fetuses at a dose of 6 mg/kg/day (87× MRHD based on AUC comparisons). This fetal effect was also noted in the oral rat embryofetal development study conducted with imiquimod. No treatment related effects on teratogenicity were noted at 3 mg/kg/day (41× MRHD based on AUC comparisons).

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Aldara Cream should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

8.3 Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether imiquimod is excreted in human milk following use of Aldara Cream. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Aldara Cream is administered to nursing women.

8.4 Pediatric Use

AK and sBCC are not conditions generally seen within the pediatric population. The safety and efficacy of Aldara Cream for AK or sBCC in patients less than 18 years of age have not been established.

Safety and efficacy in patients with external genital/perianal warts below the age of 12 years have not been established.

Aldara Cream was evaluated in two randomized, vehicle-controlled, double-blind trials involving 702 pediatric subjects with molluscum contagiosum (MC) (470 exposed to Aldara; median age 5 years, range 2–12 years). Subjects applied Aldara Cream or vehicle 3 times weekly for up to 16 weeks. Complete clearance (no MC lesions) was assessed at Week 18. In Study 1, the complete clearance rate was 24% (52/217) in the Aldara Cream group compared with 26% (28/106) in the vehicle group. In Study 2, the clearance rates were 24% (60/253) in the Aldara Cream group compared with 28% (35/126) in the vehicle group. These studies failed to demonstrate efficacy.

Similar to the studies conducted in adults, the most frequently reported adverse reaction from 2 studies in children with molluscum contagiosum was application site reaction. Adverse events which occurred more frequently in Aldara-treated subjects compared with vehicle-treated subjects generally resembled those seen in studies in indications approved for adults and also included otitis media (5% Aldara vs. 3% vehicle) and conjunctivitis (3% Aldara vs. 2% vehicle).

Erythema was the most frequently reported local skin reaction. Severe local skin reactions reported by Aldara-treated subjects in the pediatric studies included erythema (28%), edema (8%), scabbing/crusting (5%), flaking/scaling (5%), erosion (2%) and weeping/exudate (2%).

Systemic absorption of imiquimod across the affected skin of 22 subjects aged 2 to 12 years with extensive MC involving at least 10% of the total body surface area was observed after single and multiple doses at a dosing frequency of 3 applications per week for 4 weeks. The investigator determined the dose applied, either 1, 2 or 3 packets per dose, based on the size of the treatment area and the subject's weight. The overall median peak serum drug concentrations at the end of week 4 was between 0.26 and 1.06 ng/mL except in a 2-year old female who was administered 2 packets of study drug per dose, had a C_max of 9.66 ng/mL after multiple dosing. Children aged 2–5 years received doses of 12.5 mg (one packet) or 25 mg (two packets) of imiquimod and had median multiple-dose peak serum drug levels of approximately 0.2 or 0.5 ng/mL, respectively. Children aged 6–12 years received doses of 12.5 mg, 25 mg, or 37.5 mg (three packets) and had median multiple dose serum drug levels of approximately 0.1, 0.15, or 0.3 ng/mL, respectively. Among the 20 subjects with evaluable laboratory assessments, the median WBC count decreased by 1.4*10⁹/L and the median absolute neutrophil count decreased by 1.42*10⁹/L.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the 215 subjects treated with Aldara Cream in the AK clinical studies, 127 subjects (59%) were 65 years and older, while 60 subjects (28%) were 75 years and older. Of the 185 subjects treated with Aldara Cream in the sBCC clinical studies, 65 subjects (35%) were 65 years and older, while 25 subjects (14%) were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects. No other clinical experience has identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

10 OVERDOSAGE

Topical overdosing of Aldara Cream could result in an increased incidence of severe local skin reactions and may increase the risk for systemic reactions.

The most clinically serious adverse event reported following multiple oral imiquimod doses of >200 mg (equivalent to imiquimod content of >16 packets) was hypotension, which resolved following oral or intravenous fluid administration.

11 DESCRIPTION

Aldara (imiquimod 5%) Cream is an immune response modifier for topical administration. Each gram contains 50 mg of imiquimod in an off-white oil-in-water vanishing cream base consisting of isostearic acid, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, white petrolatum, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, glycerin, xanthan gum, purified water, benzyl alcohol, methylparaben, and propylparaben.

Chemically, imiquimod is 1-(2-methylpropyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinolin-4-amine. Imiquimod has a molecular formula of C₁₄H₁₆N₄ and a molecular weight of 240.3. Its structural formula is:

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of Aldara Cream in treating AK and sBCC lesions is unknown.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Actinic Keratosis

In a study of 18 subjects with AK comparing Aldara Cream to vehicle, increases from baseline in week 2 biomarker levels were reported for CD3, CD4, CD8, CD11c, and CD68 for Aldara Cream treated subjects; however, the clinical relevance of these findings is unknown.

Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

An open label study in six subjects with sBCC suggests that treatment with Aldara Cream may increase the infiltration of lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and macrophages into the tumor lesion; however, the clinical significance of these findings is unknown.

External Genital Warts

Imiquimod has no direct antiviral activity in cell culture. A study in 22 subjects with genital/perianal warts comparing Aldara Cream and vehicle shows that Aldara Cream induces mRNA encoding cytokines including interferon-α at the treatment site. In addition HPVL1 mRNA and HPV DNA are significantly decreased following treatment. However, the clinical relevance of these findings is unknown.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Systemic absorption of imiquimod across the affected skin of 58 subjects with AK was observed with a dosing frequency of 3 applications per week for 16 weeks. Mean peak serum drug concentrations at the end of week 16 were approximately 0.1, 0.2, and 3.5 ng/mL for the applications to face (12.5 mg imiquimod, 1 single-use packet), scalp (25 mg, 2 packets) and hands/arms (75 mg, 6 packets), respectively.

The application surface area was not controlled when more than one packet was used. Dose proportionality was not observed. However it appears that systemic exposure may be more dependent on surface area of application than amount of applied dose. The apparent half-life was approximately 10 times greater with topical dosing than the 2 hour apparent half-life seen following subcutaneous dosing, suggesting prolonged retention of drug in the skin. Mean urinary recoveries of imiquimod and metabolites combined were 0.08 and 0.15% of the applied dose in the group using 75 mg (6 packets) for males and females, respectively following 3 applications per week for 16 weeks.

Systemic absorption of imiquimod was observed across the affected skin of 12 subjects with genital/perianal warts, with an average dose of 4.6 mg. Mean peak drug concentration of approximately 0.4 ng/mL was seen during the study. Mean urinary recoveries of imiquimod and metabolites combined over the whole course of treatment, expressed as percent of the estimated applied dose, were 0.11 and 2.41% in the males and females, respectively.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

In an oral (gavage) rat carcinogenicity study, imiquimod was administered to Wistar rats on a 2×/week (up to 6 mg/kg/day) or daily (3 mg/kg/day) dosing schedule for 24 months. No treatment related tumors were noted in the oral rat carcinogenicity study up to the highest doses tested in this study of 6 mg/kg administered 2×/week in female rats (87× MRHD based on weekly AUC comparisons), 4 mg/kg administered 2×/week in male rats (75× MRHD based on weekly AUC comparisons) or 3 mg/kg administered 7×/week to male and female rats (153× MRHD based on weekly AUC comparisons).

In a dermal mouse carcinogenicity study, imiquimod cream (up to 5 mg/kg/application imiquimod or 0.3% imiquimod cream) was applied to the backs of mice 3×/week for 24 months. A statistically significant increase in the incidence of liver adenomas and carcinomas was noted in high dose male mice compared to control male mice (251× MRHD based on weekly AUC comparisons). An increased number of skin papillomas was observed in vehicle cream control group animals at the treated site only. The quantitative composition of the vehicle cream used in the dermal mouse carcinogenicity study is the same as the vehicle cream used for Aldara Cream, minus the active moiety (imiquimod).

In a 52-week dermal photoco-carcinogenicity study, the median time to onset of skin tumor formation was decreased in hairless mice following chronic topical dosing (3×/week; 40 weeks of treatment followed by 12 weeks of observation) with concurrent exposure to UV radiation (5 days per week) with the Aldara Cream vehicle alone. No additional effect on tumor development beyond the vehicle effect was noted with the addition of the active ingredient, imiquimod, to the vehicle cream.

Imiquimod revealed no evidence of mutagenic or clastogenic potential based on the results of five in vitro genotoxicity tests (Ames assay, mouse lymphoma L5178Y assay, Chinese hamster ovary cell chromosome aberration assay, human lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay and SHE cell transformation assay) and three in vivo genotoxicity tests (rat and hamster bone marrow cytogenetics assay and a mouse dominant lethal test).

Daily oral administration of imiquimod to rats, throughout mating, gestation, parturition and lactation, demonstrated no effects on growth, fertility or reproduction, at doses up to 87× MRHD based on AUC comparisons.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Actinic Keratosis

In two double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical studies, 436 subjects with AK were randomized to treatment with either Aldara Cream or vehicle cream 2 times per week for 16 weeks. The studies enrolled subjects with 4 to 8 clinically typical, visible, discrete, nonhyperkeratotic, nonhypertrophic AK lesions within a 25 cm² contiguous treatment area on either the face or scalp. The 25 cm² contiguous treatment area could be of any dimensions e.g., 5 cm × 5 cm, 3 cm by 8.3 cm, 2 cm by 12.5 cm. Study subjects ranged from 37 to 88 years of age (median 66 years) and 55% had Fitzpatrick skin type I or II. All Aldara-treated subjects were Caucasians.

On a scheduled dosing day, the study cream was applied to the entire treatment area prior to normal sleeping hours and left on for approximately 8 hours. Twice weekly dosing was continued for a total of 16 weeks. The clinical response of each subject was evaluated 8 weeks after the last scheduled application of study cream. Efficacy was assessed by the complete clearance rate, defined as the proportion of subjects at the 8-week post-treatment visit with no (zero) clinically visible AK lesions in the treatment area. Complete clearance included clearance of all baseline lesions, as well as any new or sub-clinical AK lesions which appeared during therapy.

Complete and partial clearance rates are shown in the table below. The partial clearance rate was defined as the percentage of subjects in whom 75% or more baseline AK lesions were cleared.

Sub-clinical AK lesions may become apparent in the treatment area during treatment with Aldara Cream. During the course of treatment, 48% (103/215) of subjects experienced an increase in AK lesions relative to the number present at baseline within the treatment area. Subjects with an increase in AK lesions had a similar response to those with no increase in AK lesions.

14.2 Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

In two double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical studies, 364 subjects with primary sBCC were treated with Aldara Cream or vehicle cream 5 times per week for 6 weeks. Target tumors were biopsy-confirmed sBCC and had a minimum area of 0.5 cm² and a maximum diameter of 2.0 cm (4.0 cm²). Target tumors were not to be located within 1.0 cm of the hairline, or on the anogenital area or on the hands or feet, or to have any atypical features. The population ranged from 31–89 years of age (median 60 years) and 65% had Fitzpatrick skin type I or II. On a scheduled dosing day, study cream was applied to the target tumor and approximately 1 cm (about 1/3 inch) beyond the target tumor prior to normal sleeping hours, and 5 times per week dosing was continued for a total of 6 weeks. The target tumor area was clinically assessed 12 weeks after the last scheduled application of study cream. The entire target tumor was then excised and examined histologically for the presence of tumor.

Efficacy was assessed by the complete response rate defined as the proportion of subjects with clinical (visual) and histological clearance of the sBCC lesion at 12 weeks post-treatment. Of Aldaratreated subjects, 6% (11/178) who had both clinical and histological assessments post-treatment, and who appeared to be clinically clear had evidence of tumor on excision of the clinically-clear treatment area.

Data on composite clearance (defined as both clinical and histological clearance) are shown in the following table.

A separate 5-year, open-label study was conducted to assess the recurrence of sBCC treated with Aldara Cream applied once daily 5 days per week for 6 weeks. Target tumor inclusion criteria were the same as for the studies described above. At 12-weeks post-treatment, subjects were clinically evaluated for evidence of persistent sBCC (no histological assessment). Subjects with no clinical evidence of sBCC entered the long-term follow-up period. At the 12 week post-treatment assessment, 90% (163/182) of the subjects enrolled had no clinical evidence of sBCC at their target site and 162 subjects entered the long-term follow-up period for up to 5 years. Two year (24 month) follow-up data are available from this study and are presented in the table below:

14.3 External Genital Warts

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 209 otherwise healthy subjects 18 years of age and older with genital/perianal warts were treated with Aldara Cream or vehicle control 3 times per week for a maximum of 16 weeks. The median baseline wart area was 69 mm² (range 8 to 5525 mm²). Subject accountability is shown in the figure below.

Figure 1: Subject Accountability (External Genital Warts)

*The other subjects were either lost to follow-up or experienced recurrences.

Data on complete clearance are listed in the table below. The median time to complete wart clearance was 10 weeks.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

Aldara (imiquimod) Cream, 5%, is supplied in single-use packets which contain 250 mg of the cream. Available as: box of 12 packets NDC 99207-260-12.

Store at 4–25°C (39–77°F)

Avoid freezing.

Keep out of reach of children.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling

17.1 General Information: All Indications

Aldara Cream should be used as directed by a physician [see Dosage and Administration (2)]. Aldara Cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes, lips and nostrils should be avoided [see Indications and Usage (1) and Dosage and Administration (2)]. The treatment area should not be bandaged or otherwise occluded. Partially-used packets should be discarded and not reused. The prescriber should demonstrate the proper application technique to maximize the benefit of Aldara Cream therapy.

It is recommended that patients wash their hands before and after applying Aldara cream.

17.2 Local Skin Reactions: All Indications

Patients may experience local skin reactions during treatment with Aldara Cream (even with normal dosing). Potential local skin reactions include erythema, edema, vesicles, erosions/ulcerations, weeping/exudate, flaking/scaling/dryness, and scabbing/crusting. These reactions can range from mild to severe in intensity and may extend beyond the application site onto the surrounding skin. Patients may also experience application site reactions such as itching and/or burning [see Adverse Reactions (6)].

Local skin reactions may be of such intensity that patients may require rest periods from treatment. Treatment with Aldara Cream can be resumed after the skin reaction has subsided, as determined by the physician. Patients should contact their physician promptly if they experience any sign or symptom at the application site that restricts or prohibits their daily activity or makes continued application of the cream difficult.

Because of local skin reactions, during treatment and until healed, the treatment area is likely to appear noticeably different from normal skin. Localized hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation have been reported following use of Aldara Cream. These skin color changes may be permanent in some patients.

17.3 Systemic Reactions: All Indications

Patients may experience flu-like systemic signs and symptoms during treatment with Aldara Cream (even with normal dosing). Systemic signs and symptoms may include malaise, fever, nausea, myalgias and rigors [see Adverse Reactions (6)]. An interruption of dosing should be considered.

17.4 Patients Being Treated for Actinic Keratosis (AK)

Dosing is 2 times per week for a full 16 weeks, unless otherwise directed by the physician. However, the treatment period should not be extended beyond 16 weeks due to missed doses or rest periods [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

It is recommended that the treatment area be washed with mild soap and water 8 hours following Aldara Cream application.

Most patients using Aldara Cream for the treatment of AK experience erythema, flaking/scaling/dryness and scabbing/crusting at the application site with normal dosing [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Use of sunscreen is encouraged, and patients should minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) while using Aldara Cream [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Sub-clinical AK lesions may become apparent in the treatment area during treatment and may subsequently resolve [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

17.5 Patients Being Treated for Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC)

Dosing is 5 times per week for a full 6 weeks, unless otherwise directed by the physician. However, the treatment period should not be extended beyond 6 weeks due to missed doses or rest periods [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

It is recommended that the treatment area be washed with mild soap and water 8 hours following Aldara Cream application [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Most patients using Aldara Cream for the treatment of sBCC experience erythema, edema, induration, erosion, scabbing/crusting and flaking/scaling at the application site with normal dosing [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

Use of sunscreen is encouraged, and patients should minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) while using Aldara Cream [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

The clinical outcome of therapy can be determined after resolution of application site reactions and/or local skin reactions.

Patients with sBCC treated with Aldara Cream should have regular follow-up to re-evaluate the treatment site [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

17.6 Patients Being Treated for External Genital Warts

Dosing is 3 times per week to external genital/perianal warts. Aldara Cream treatment should continue until there is total clearance of the genital/perianal warts or for a maximum of 16 weeks.

It is recommended that the treatment area be washed with mild soap and water 6–10 hours following Aldara Cream application.

It is common for patients to experience local skin reactions such as erythema, erosion, excoriation/flaking, and edema at the site of application or surrounding areas. Most skin reactions are mild to moderate.

Sexual (genital, anal, oral) contact should be avoided while Aldara Cream is on the skin. Application of Aldara Cream in the vagina is considered internal and should be avoided. Female patients should take special care if applying the cream at the opening of the vagina because local skin reactions on the delicate moist surfaces can result in pain or severe swelling, and may cause difficulty in passing urine, or inability to urinate.

Uncircumcised males treating warts under the foreskin should retract the foreskin and clean the area daily.

New warts may develop during therapy, as Aldara Cream is not a cure.

The effect of Aldara Cream on the transmission of genital/perianal warts is unknown.

Aldara Cream may weaken condoms and vaginal diaphragms; therefore, concurrent use is not recommended.

Should severe local skin reaction occur, the cream should be removed by washing the treatment area with mild soap and water.

Rx Only

Manufactured by
3M Health Care Limited
Loughborough LE11 1EP England

Manufactured for
Medicis, The Dermatology Company
Scottsdale, AZ 85256

Rev 01/12
620418851

Aldara is a registered trademark of
Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.25g Packet Carton

MEDICIS ^®

NDC 99207-260-12

Cream, 5%

Aldara ^®
(IMIQUIMOD)

For Dermatological Use Only
Not for Ophthalmic, Oral
or Intravaginal Use

12
single use
packets

Net Wt. Per Packet
0.25g

Net Wt. Per Box
3g