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cisatracurium besylate

Sandoz Inc


FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*




FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

This drug should be administered only by adequately trained individuals familiar with its actions, characteristics, and hazards.

NOT FOR USE IN NEONATES

CONTAINS BENZYL ALCOHOL

CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE DESCRIPTION

Cisatracurium besylate is a nondepolarizing skeletal muscle relaxant for intravenous administration. Compared to other neuromuscular blocking agents, it is intermediate in its onset and duration of action. Cisatracurium besylate is one of 10 isomers of atracurium besylate and constitutes approximately 15% of that mixture. Cisatracurium besylate is [1R-[1α,2α(1'R*,2'R*)]]-2,2'-[1,5-pentanediylbis[oxy(3-oxo-3,1-propanediyl)]]bis[1-[(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6,7-dimethoxy-2-methylisoquinolinium] dibenzenesulfonate. The molecular formula of the cisatracurium parent bis-cation is C53H72N2O12 and the molecular weight is 929.2. The molecular formula of cisatracurium as the besylate salt is C65H82N2O18S2 and the molecular weight is 1243.50. The structural formula of cisatracurium besylate is:

The log of the partition coefficient of cisatracurium besylate is -2.12 in a 1-octanol/distilled water system at 25°C.

Cisatracurium besylate injection is a sterile, non-pyrogenic aqueous solution provided in 10 mL, vials. The pH is adjusted to 3.25 to 3.65 with benzenesulfonic acid. The 10 mL vial contains cisatracurium besylate, equivalent to 2 mg/mL cisatracurium. The 10 mL vial, intended for multiple-dose use, contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative.

Cisatracurium besylate slowly loses potency with time at a rate of approximately 5% per year under refrigeration (5°C). Cisatracurium besylate should be refrigerated at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) in the carton to preserve potency. The rate of loss in potency increases to approximately 5% per month at 25°C (77°F). Upon removal from refrigeration to room temperature storage conditions (25°C/77°F), use cisatracurium besylate within 21 days, even if rerefrigerated.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Cisatracurium besylate binds competitively to cholinergic receptors on the motor end-plate to antagonize the action of acetylcholine, resulting in block of neuromuscular transmission. This action is antagonized by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as neostigmine.

Pharmacodynamics

The neuromuscular blocking potency of cisatracurium besylate is approximately threefold that of atracurium besylate. The time to maximum block is up to 2 minutes longer for equipotent doses of cisatracurium besylate compared to atracurium besylate. The clinically effective duration of action and rate of spontaneous recovery from equipotent doses of cisatracurium besylate and atracurium besylate are similar.

The average ED95 (dose required to produce 95% suppression of the adductor pollicis muscle twitch response to ulnar nerve stimulation) of cisatracurium is 0.05 mg/kg (range:  0.048 to 0.053) in adults receiving opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia. For comparison, the average ED95 for atracurium when also expressed as the parent bis-cation is 0.17 mg/kg under similar anesthetic conditions.

The pharmacodynamics of 2 × ED95 to 8 × ED95 doses of cisatracurium administered over 5 to 10 seconds during opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia are summarized in Table 1. When the dose is doubled, the clinically effective duration of block increases by approximately 25 minutes. Once recovery begins, the rate of recovery is independent of dose.

Isoflurane or enflurane administered with nitrous oxide/oxygen to achieve 1.25 MAC [Minimum Alveolar Concentration] may prolong the clinically effective duration of action of initial and maintenance doses, and decrease the average infusion rate requirement of cisatracurium besylate. The magnitude of these effects may depend on the duration of administration of the volatile agents. Fifteen to 30 minutes of exposure to 1.25 MAC isoflurane or enflurane had minimal effects on the duration of action of initial doses of cisatracurium besylate and therefore, no adjustment to the initial dose should be necessary when cisatracurium besylate is administered shortly after initiation of volatile agents. In long surgical procedures during enflurane or isoflurane anesthesia, less frequent maintenance dosing, lower maintenance doses, or reduced infusion rates of cisatracurium besylate may be necessary. The average infusion rate requirement may be decreased by as much as 30% to 40%.

The onset, duration of action, and recovery profiles of cisatracurium besylate during propofol/oxygen or propofol/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia are similar to those during opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia.

Table 1. Pharmacodynamic Dose Response* of Cisatracurium During Opioid/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia
*   Values shown are medians of means from individual studies. Values in parentheses are ranges of individual patient values.
†  Clinically effective duration of block.
‡   Train-of-four ratio.
§   n=the number of patients with Time to Maximum Block data.
||   Propofol anesthesia.
¶   Halothane anesthesia.
**   Thiopentone, alfentanil, N2O/O2 anesthesia

Time to Spontaneous Recovery

Initial Dose of cisatracurium besylate (mg/kg)

Time to 90% Block (min)

Time to Maximum Block (min)

5% Recovery (min)

25% Recovery (min)

95% Recovery (min)

T 4:T 1 Ratio≥ 70% (min)

25%-75% Recovery Index (min)

Adults

0.1
(2 × ED95)
(n§= 98)

3.3
(1-8.7)

5
(1.2-17.2)

33
(15-51)

42
(22-63)

64
(25-93)

64
(32-91)

13
(5-30)

0.15||
(3 × ED95)
(n = 39)

2.6
(1-4.4)

3.5
(1.6-6.8)

46
(28-65)

55
(44-74)

76
(60-103)

75
(63-98)

13
(11-16)

0.2
(4 × ED95)
(n = 30)

2.4
(1.5-4.5)

2.9
(1.9-5.2)

59
(31-103)

65
(43-103)

81
(53-114)

85
(55-114)

12
(2-30)

0.25
(5 × ED95)
(n = 15)

1.6
(0.8-3.3)

2 (1.2-3.7)

70
(58-85)

78
(66-86)

91
(76-109)

97
(82-113)

8
(5-12)

0.4
(8 × ED95)
(n = 15)

1.5
(1.3-1.8)

1.9
(1.4-2.3)

83
(37-103)

91
(59-107)

121
(110-134)

126
(115-137)

14
(10-18)

Infants (1-23 mos.)

0.15**
(n = 18-26)

1.5
(0.7-3.2)

2
(1.3-4.3)

36
(28-50)

43
(34-58)

64
(54-84)

59
(49-76)

11.3
(7.3-18.3)

Children (2-12 yr )

0.08¶
(2 × ED95)
(n = 60)

2.2
(1.2-6.8)

3.3
(1.7-9.7)

22
(11-38)

29
(20-46)

52
(37-64)

50
(37-62)

11
(7-15)

0.1
(n = 16)

1.7
(1.3-2.7)

2.8
(1.8-6.7)

21
(13-31)

28
(21-38)

46
(37-58)

44
(36-58)

10
(7-12)

0.15**
(n = 23-24)

2.1
(1.3-2.8)

3
(1.5-8)

29
(19-38)

36
(29-46)

55
(45-72)

54
(44-66)

10.6
(8.5-17.7)

When administered during the induction of adequate anesthesia using propofol, nitrous oxide/oxygen, and co-induction agents (e.g., fentanyl and midazolam), GOOD or EXCELLENT conditions for tracheal intubation occurred in 96/102 (94%) patients in 1.5 to 2 minutes following 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium and in 97/110 (88%) patients in 1.5 minutes following 0.2 mg/kg cisatracurium.

In one intubation study during thiopental anesthesia in which fentanyl and midazolam were administered two minutes prior to induction, intubation conditions were assessed at 120 seconds. Table 2 displays these results in this study of 51 patients.

Table 2. Study of Tracheal Intubation Comparing Two Doses of Cisatracurium (Thiopental Anesthesia)
Intubating Conditions at 120 seconds 3 × ED95
0.15 mg/kg n = 26
4 × ED95
0.20 mg/kg n = 25

Excellent and Good

     Proportion

23/26

24/25

     Percent

88%

96%

     95% CI

76,100

88,100

Excellent

     Proportion

8/26

15/26

     Percent

31%

60%

Good

     Proportion

15/26

9/25

     Percent

58%

36%

While GOOD or EXCELLENT intubation conditions were achieved in the majority of patients in this setting, EXCELLENT intubation conditions were more frequently achieved with the 0.2 mg/kg dose (60%) than the 0.15 mg/kg dose (31%) when intubation was attempted 2 minutes following cisatracurium.

A second study evaluated intubation conditions after 3 and 4 × ED95 (0.15 mg/kg and 0.20 mg/kg) following induction with fentanyl and midazolam and either thiopental or propofol anesthesia. This study compared intubation conditions produced by these doses of cisatracurium after 1.5 minutes. Table 3 displays these results.

Table 3. Study of Tracheal Intubation Comparing Three Doses of Cisatracurium (Thiopental or Propofol Anesthesia)
Intubating Conditions at 90 seconds 3 × ED95
0.15 mg/kg
Propofol
n = 31
3 × ED95
0.15 mg/kg
Thiopental
n = 31
4 × ED95
0.20 mg/kg
Propofol
n = 30
4 × ED95
0.20 mg/kg
Thiopental
n = 28

Excellent and Good

     Proportion

29/31

28/31

28/30

27/28

     Percent

94%

90%

93%

96%

     95% CI

85,100

80,100

84,100

90,100

Excellent

     Proportion

18/31

17/31

22/30

16/28

     Percent

58%

55%

70%

57%

Good

     Proportion

11/31

11/31

6/30

11/28

     Percent

35%

35%

20%

39%

EXCELLENT intubation conditions were more frequently observed with the 0.2 mg/kg dose when intubation was attempted 1.5 minutes following cisatracurium.

A third study in pediatric patients (ages 1 month to 12 years) evaluated intubation conditions at 120 seconds after 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate following induction with either halothane (with halothane/nitrous oxide/oxygen maintenance) or thiopentone and fentanyl (with thiopentone/fentanyl nitrous oxide/oxygen maintenance). The results are summarized in Table 4.

Table 4. Study of Tracheal Intubation for Pediatrics Stratified by Age Group (0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate with Halothane or Thiopentone/ Fentanyl Anesthesia)
**   Excellent: Easy passage of the tube without coughing. Vocal cords relaxed and abducted.
Good: Passage of tube with slight coughing and/or bucking. Vocal cords relaxed and abducted.
Poor: Passage of tube with moderate coughing and/or bucking. Vocal cords moderately adducted.
Response of patient requires adjustment of ventilation pressure and/or rate.

Cisatracurium

0.15 mg/kg
1-11 mo.
n = 30

Cisatracurium

0.15 mg/kg
1- 4 years
n = 31

Cisatracurium

0.15 mg/kg
5-12 years
n = 30

Intubating Conditions at 120 seconds**

Halothane Anesthesia

Thiopentone/ Fentanyl Anesthesia

Halothane Anesthesia

Thiopentone/ Fentanyl Anesthesia

Halothane Anesthesia

Thiopentone/ Fentanyl Anesthesia

Excellent and Good

     Proportion

30/30

30/30

29/30

26/30

29/30

29/30

     Percent

100%

100%

97%

87%

97%

97%

Excellent

     Proportion

30/30

25/30

27/30

19/30

22/30

21/30

     Percent

100%

83%

90%

63%

73%

70%

Good

     Proportion

0

5/30

2/30

7/30

7/30

8/30

     Percent

0%

17%

7%

23%

23%

27%

Poor

     Proportion

0/30

0/30

1/30

4/30

1/30

1/30

     Percent

0%

0%

3%

13%

3%

3%

EXCELLENT or GOOD intubating conditions were produced 120 seconds following 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate in 88/90 (98%) of patients induced with halothane and in 85/90 (94%) of patients induced with thiopentone and fentanyl. There were no patients for whom intubation was not possible, but there were 7/120 patients ages 1 to 12 years for whom intubating conditions were described as poor.

Repeated administration of maintenance doses or a continuous infusion of cisatracurium besylate for up to 3 hours is not associated with development of tachyphylaxis or cumulative neuromuscular blocking effects. The time needed to recover from successive maintenance doses does not change with the number of doses administered as long as partial recovery is allowed to occur between doses. Maintenance doses can therefore be administered at relatively regular intervals with predictable results. The rate of spontaneous recovery of neuromuscular function after infusion is independent of the duration of infusion and comparable to the rate of recovery following initial doses (Table 1).

Long-term infusion (up to 6 days) of cisatracurium besylate during mechanical ventilation in the ICU has been evaluated in two studies. In a randomized, double-blind study using presence of a single twitch during train-of-four (TOF) monitoring to regulate dosage, patients treated with cisatracurium besylate (n = 19) recovered neuromuscular function (T4:T1 ratio≥ 70%) following termination of infusion in approximately 55 minutes (range: 20 to 270) whereas those treated with vecuronium (n = 12) recovered in 178 minutes (range:  40 minutes to 33 hours). In another study comparing cisatracurium besylate and atracurium, patients recovered neuromuscular function in approximately 50 minutes for both cisatracurium besylate (range: 20 to 175; n = 34) and atracurium (range: 35 to 85; n = 15).

The neuromuscular block produced by cisatracurium besylate is readily antagonized by anticholinesterase agents once recovery has started. As with other nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, the more profound the neuromuscular block at the time of reversal, the longer the time required for recovery of neuromuscular function.

In children (2 to 12 years) cisatracurium has a lower ED95 than in adults (0.04 mg/kg, halothane/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia). At 0.1 mg/kg during opioid anesthesia, cisatracurium had a faster onset and shorter duration of action in children than in adults (Table 1). Recovery following reversal is faster in children than in adults.

At 0.15 mg/kg during opioid anesthesia, cisatracurium had a faster onset and longer clinically effective duration of action in infants aged 1 to 23 months compared to children aged 2 to 12 years (Table 1).

Studies were conducted during both opioid-based and halothane-based anesthesia in children aged 1 to 11 months, 1 to 4 years, and 5 to 12 years. Cisatracurium had a faster onset and longer duration of action in infants 1 to 11 months compared to children 1 to 4 years, who in turn have a faster onset and longer duration of action for cisatracurium compared to children 5 to 12 years.

The mean time to onset of maximum T1 suppression was generally faster for pediatric patients induced with halothane compared to thiopentone/fentanyl and the clinically effective duration (time to 25% recovery) was longer (by up to 15%) for pediatric patients under halothane anesthesia.

Hemodynamics Profile

The cardiovascular profile of cisatracurium besylate allows it to be administered by rapid bolus at higher multiples of the ED95 than atracurium. Cisatracurium besylate has no dose-related effects on mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) or heart rate (HR) following doses ranging from 2 to 8 × ED95 (> 0.1 to > 0.4 mg/kg), administered over 5 to 10 seconds, in healthy adult patients (Figure 1) or in patients with serious cardiovascular disease (Figure 2).

A total of 141 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) have been administered cisatracurium besylate in three active controlled clinical trials and have received doses ranging from 2 to 8 × ED95. While the hemodynamic profile was comparable in both the cisatracurium besylate and active control groups, data for doses above 0.3 mg/kg in this population are limited.

Unlike atracurium, cisatracurium besylate, at therapeutic doses of 2 × ED95 to 8 × ED95 (0.1 to 0.4 mg/kg), administered over 5 to 10 seconds, does not cause dose-related elevations in mean plasma histamine concentration.

Figure 1. Maximum Percent Change from Preinjection in Heart Rate (HR) and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) During First 5 Minutes after Initial 4 × ED95 to 8 × ED95 Doses of  Cisatracurium Besylate in Healthy Adult Patients Receiving Opioid/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia (n = 44)

Figure 2. Percent Change from Preinjection in Heart Rate (HR) and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) 10 Minutes After an Initial 4 × ED95 to 8 × ED95 Dose of Cisatracurium Besylate in Patients Undergoing CABG Surgery Receiving Oxygen/Fentanyl/Midazolam/Anesthesia (n = 54)

No clinically significant changes in MAP or HR were observed following administration of doses up to 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate over 5 to 10 seconds in 2- to 12-year-old children receiving either halothane/nitrous oxide/oxygen or opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia. Doses of 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate administered over 5 seconds were not consistently associated with changes in HR and MAP in pediatric patients aged 1 month to 12 years receiving opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen or halothane/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia.

Figure 3. Heart Rate and MAP Change at 1 Minute After the Initial Dose, By Age Group Treatment Group: Cisatracurium Besylate 0:3 × ED95 Opioid Intubation at 120 Sec.

1 to 11 Months

1 to 5 Years

5 to 13 Years

Figure 4. Heart Rate and MAP Change at 1 Minute After the Initial Dose, By Age Group Treatment Group: Cisatracurium Besylate H :3 × ED95 Halothane Intubation at 120 Sec.

1 to 11 Months

1 to 5 Years

5 to 13 Years

Pharmacokinetics

General

The neuromuscular blocking activity of cisatracurium besylate is due to parent drug. Cisatracurium plasma concentration-time data following IV bolus administration are best described by a two-compartment open model (with elimination from both compartments) with an elimination half-life (t½β) of 22 minutes, a plasma clearance (CL) of 4.57 mL/min/kg, and a volume of distribution at steady state (Vss) of 145 mL/kg. Cisatracurium undergoes organ-independent Hofmann elimination (a chemical process dependent on pH and temperature) to form the monoquaternary acrylate metabolite and laudanosine, neither of which has any neuromuscular blocking activity (see Pharmacokinetics - Metabolism section). Following administration of radiolabeled cisatracurium, 95% of the dose was recovered in the urine; less than 10% of the dose was excreted as unchanged parent drug. Laudanosine, a metabolite of cisatracurium (and atracurium) has been noted to cause transient hypotension and, in higher doses, cerebral excitatory effects when administered to several animal species. The relationship between CNS excitation and laudanosine concentrations in humans has not been established (see PRECAUTIONS - Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit ). Because cisatracurium is three times more potent than atracurium and lower doses are required, the corresponding laudanosine concentrations following cisatracurium are one third of those that would be expected following an equipotent dose of atracurium (see Pharmacokinetics - Special Populations - Intensive Care Unit Patients ).

Results from population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analyses from 241 healthy surgical patients are summarized in Table 5.

*   Healthy male non-obese patients 19-64 years of age with creatinine clearance values greater than 70 mL/min who received cisatracurium during opioid anesthesia and had venous samples collected.
  • †   The percent standard error of the mean (%SEM) ranged from 3% to 12% indicating good precision for the PK/PD estimates.
  • ‡   Expressed as a coefficient of variation; the %SEM ranged from 20% to 35% indicating adequate precision for the estimates of interpatient variability.
  • §   Vss is the volume of distribution at steady state estimated using a two-compartment model with elimination from both compartments. Vss is equal to the sum of the volume in the central compartment (Vc) and the volume in the peripheral compartment (Vp); interpatient variability could only be estimated for Vc.
  • ll   Rate constant describing the equilibration between plasma concentrations and neuromuscular block.
  • ¶   Concentration required to produce 50% T1 suppression; an index of patient sensitivity.
    Table 5. Key Population PK/PD Parameter Estimates for Cisatracurium in Healthy Surgical Patients* Following 0.1 (2 × ED95) to 0.4 mg/kg (8 × ED95) Cisatracurium
    Parameter Estimate Magnitude of Interpatient Variability (CV)

    CL (mL/min/kg)

    4.57

    16%

    Vss (mL/kg)§

    145

    27%

    keo (min-1)ll

    0.0575

    61%

    EC50 (ng/mL)

    141

    52%

               

    The magnitude of interpatient variability in CL was low (16%), as expected based on the importance of Hofmann elimination (see Pharmacokinetics - Elimination). The magnitudes of interpatient variability in CL and volume of distribution were low in comparison to those for keo and EC50. This suggests that any alterations in the time course of cisatracurium-induced block are more likely to be due to variability in the pharmacodynamic parameters than in the pharmacokinetic parameters. Parameter estimates from the population pharmacokinetic analyses were supported by noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analyses on data from healthy patients and from special patient populations.

    Conventional pharmacokinetic analyses have shown that the pharmacokinetics of cisatracurium are proportional to dose between 0.1 (2 × ED95) and 0.2 (4 × ED95) mg/kg cisatracurium. In addition, population pharmacokinetic analyses revealed no statistically significant effect of initial dose on CL for doses between 0.1 (2× ED95) and 0.4 (8 × ED95) mg/kg cisatracurium.

    Distribution

    The volume of distribution of cisatracurium is limited by its large molecular weight and high polarity. The Vss was equal to 145 mL/kg (Table 4) in healthy 19- to 64-year-old surgical patients receiving opioid anesthesia. The Vss was 21% larger in similar patients receiving inhalation anesthesia (see Pharmacokinetics - Special Populations - Other Patient Factors ).

    Protein Binding

    The binding of cisatracurium to plasma proteins has not been successfully studied due to its rapid degradation at physiologic pH. Inhibition of degradation requires nonphysiological conditions of temperature and pH which are associated with changes in protein binding.

    Metabolism

    The degradation of cisatracurium is largely independent of liver metabolism. Results from in vitro experiments suggest that cisatracurium undergoes Hofmann elimination (a pH and temperature-dependent chemical process) to form laudanosine (see PRECAUTIONS - Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit ) and the monoquaternary acrylate metabolite. The monoquaternary acrylate undergoes hydrolysis by non-specific plasma esterases to form the monoquaternary alcohol (MQA) metabolite. The MQA metabolite can also undergo Hofmann elimination but at a much slower rate than cisatracurium. Laudanosine is further metabolized to desmethyl metabolites which are conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in the urine.

    Organ-independent Hofmann elimination is the predominant pathway for the elimination of cisatracurium. The liver and kidney play a minor role in the elimination of cisatracurium but are primary pathways for the elimination of metabolites. Therefore, the t½β values of metabolites (including laudanosine) are longer in patients with kidney or liver dysfunction and metabolite concentrations may be higher after long-term administration (see PRECAUTIONS - Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit ). Most importantly, Cmax values of laudanosine are significantly lower in healthy surgical patients receiving infusions of cisatracurium besylate than in patients receiving infusions of atracurium (mean ± SD Cmax: 60 ± 52 and 342 ± 93 ng/mL, respectively).

    Elimination

    Mean CL values for cisatracurium ranged from 4.5 to 5.7 mL/min/kg in studies of healthy surgical patients. Compartmental pharmacokinetic modeling suggests that approximately 80% of the CL is accounted for by Hofmann elimination and the remaining 20% by renal and hepatic elimination. These findings are consistent with the low magnitude of interpatient variability in CL (16%) estimated as part of the population PK/PD analyses and with the recovery of parent and metabolites in urine. Following 14C-cisatracurium administration to 6 healthy male patients, 95% of the dose was recovered in the urine (mostly as conjugated metabolites) and 4% in the feces; less than 10% of the dose was excreted as unchanged parent drug in the urine. In 12 healthy surgical patients receiving non-radiolabeled cisatracurium who had Foley catheters placed for surgical management, approximately 15% of the dose was excreted unchanged in the urine.

    In studies of healthy surgical patients, mean t½β values of cisatracurium ranged from 22 to 29 minutes and were consistent with the t½β of cisatracurium in vitro (29 minutes). The mean ± SD t½β values of laudanosine were 3.1 ± 0.4 and 3.3 ± 2.1 hours in healthy surgical patients receiving cisatracurium besylate (n = 10) or atracurium (n = 10), respectively. During IV infusions of cisatracurium besylate, peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) of laudanosine and the MQA metabolite are approximately 6% and 11% of the parent compound, respectively.

    Special Populations

    The results of conventional pharmacokinetic analysis from a study of 12 healthy elderly patients and 12 healthy young adult patients receiving a single IV dose of 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate are summarized in Table 6. Plasma clearances of cisatracurium were not affected by age; however, the volumes of distribution were slightly larger in elderly patients than in young patients resulting in slightly longer t½β values for cisatracurium. The rate of equilibration between plasma cisatracurium concentrations and neuromuscular block was slower in elderly patients than in young patients (mean ± SD keo: 0.071 ± 0.036 and 0.105 ± 0.021 minutes-1, respectively); there was no difference in the patient sensitivity to cisatracurium-induced block, as indicated by EC50 values (mean ± SD EC50: 91 ± 22 and 89 ± 23 ng/mL, respectively). These changes were consistent with the 1-minute slower times to maximum block in elderly patients receiving 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate, when compared to young patients receiving the same dose. The minor differences in PK/PD parameters of cisatracurium between elderly patients and young patients were not associated with clinically significant differences in the recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate.

    †  P < 0.05 for comparisons between healthy elderly and healthy young adult patients.
  • ‡  Volume of distribution is underestimated because elimination from the peripheral compartment is ignored.
    Table 6. Pharmacokinetic Parameters* of Cisatracurium in Healthy Elderly and Young Adult Patients Following 0.1 mg/kg (2× ED95) Cisatracurium Besylate (Isoflurane/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia)
    Parameter Healthy
    Elderly Patients
    Healthy
    Young Adult Patients

    Elimination Half-Life (t½β, min)

    25.8 ± 3.6

    22.1 ± 2.5

    Volume of Distribution at Steady State (mL/kg)

    156 ± 17

    133 ± 15

    Plasma Clearance (mL/min/kg)

    5.7 ± 1

    5.3 ± 0.9

    *   Values presented are mean ± SD.

       

    Table 7 summarizes the conventional pharmacokinetic analysis from a study of cisatracurium besylate in 13 patients with end-stage liver disease undergoing liver transplantation and 11 healthy adult patients undergoing elective surgery. The slightly larger volumes of distribution in liver transplant patients were associated with slightly higher plasma clearances of cisatracurium. The parallel changes in these parameters resulted in no difference in t½β values. There were no differences in keo or EC50 between patient groups. The times to maximum block were approximately one minute faster in liver transplant patients than in healthy adult patients receiving 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate. These minor differences in pharmacokinetics were not associated with clinically significant differences in the recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate .

    The t½β values of metabolites are longer in patients with hepatic disease and concentrations may be higher after long-term administration (see Pharmacokinetics - Special Populations - Intensive Care Unit Patients ).

    †  P < 0.05 for comparisons between liver transplant patients and healthy adult patients.
  • ‡  Volume of distribution is underestimated because elimination from the peripheral compartment is ignored.
    Table 7. Pharmacokinetic Parameters* of Cisatracurium in Healthy Adult Patients and in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation Following 0.1 mg/kg (2 × ED95) Cisatracurium (Isoflurane/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia)
    Parameter Liver
    Transplant Patients
    Healthy
    Adult Patients

    Elimination Half-Life (t½β, min)

    24.4 ± 2.9

    23.5 ± 3.5

    Volume of Distribution at Steady State (mL/kg)

    195 ± 38

    161 ± 23

    Plasma Clearance (mL/min/kg)

    6.6 ± 1.1

    5.7 ± 0.8

    *  Values presented are mean ± SD.

       

    Results from a conventional pharmacokinetic study of cisatracurium besylate in 13 healthy adult patients and 15 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing elective surgery are summarized in Table 8. The PK/PD parameters of cisatracurium were similar in healthy adult patients and ESRD patients. The times to 90% block were approximately one minute slower in ESRD patients following 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate. There were no differences in the durations or rates of recovery of cisatracurium besylate between ESRD and healthy adult patients.

    The t½β values of metabolites are longer in patients with renal failure and concentrations may be higher after long-term administration (see Pharmacokinetics - Special Populations - Intensive Care Unit Patients ).

    †   Volume of distribution is underestimated because elimination from the peripheral compartment is ignored.
    Table 8. Pharmacokinetic Parameters* for Cisatracurium in Healthy Adult Patients and in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Receiving 0.1 mg/kg (2 × ED95) Cisatracurium (Opioid/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia)
    Parameter Healthy Adult Patients ESRD Patients

    Elimination Half-Life (t½β, min)

    29.4 ± 4.1

    32.3 ± 6.3

    Volume of Distribution at Steady State (mL/kg)

    149 ± 35

    160 ± 32

    Plasma Clearance (mL/min/kg)

    4.66 ± 0.86

    4.26 ± 0.62

    *   Values presented are mean ± SD.

     

    Population pharmacokinetic analyses revealed that patients with creatinine clearances ≤ 70 mL/min had a slower rate of equilibration between plasma concentrations and neuromuscular block than patients with normal renal function; this change was associated with a slightly slower (~ 40 seconds) predicted time to 90% T1 suppression in patients with renal dysfunction following 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate. There was no clinically significant alteration in the recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate in patients with renal dysfunction. The recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate is unchanged in the presence of renal or hepatic failure, which is consistent with predominantly organ-independent elimination.

    The pharmacokinetics of cisatracurium, atracurium, and their metabolites were determined in six ICU patients receiving cisatracurium besylate and in six ICU patients receiving atracurium and are presented in Table 9. The plasma clearances of cisatracurium and atracurium are similar. The volume of distribution was larger and the t½β was longer for cisatracurium than for atracurium. The relationships between plasma cisatracurium or atracurium concentrations and neuromuscular block have not been evaluated in ICU patients. The minor differences in pharmacokinetics were not associated with any differences in the recovery profiles of cisatracurium besylate and atracurium in ICU patients.

    Table 9. Parameter Estimates* for Cisatracurium, Atracurium, and Metabolites in ICU Patients After Long-Term (24-48 Hour) Administration of Cisatracurium or Atracurium Besylate

    ‡  Volume of distribution during the terminal elimination phase, an underestimate because elimination from the peripheral compartment is ignored.

    §  n = 2, range presented.

    ll   n = 3.

    Parameter Cisatracurium
    (n = 6)
    Atracurium
    (n = 6)

    Parent Compound

    CL (mL/min/kg)

    7.45 ± 1.02

    7.49 ± 0.66

    t½β (min)

    26.8 ± 11.1

    16.5 ± 6

    Vβ (mL/kg)

    280 ± 103

    178 ± 71

    Laudanosine

    Cmax (ng/mL)

    707 ± 360

    2318 ± 1498

    t½β (hrs)

    6.6 ± 4.1

    8.4 ± 7.3

    MQA metabolite

    Cmax (ng/mL)

    152-181§

    943 ± 333ll

    t½β (min)

    26-31§

    21-58§

    *  Presented as mean ± standard deviation.

    †  n = 5.

     

    Plasma metabolite pharmacokinetics are listed in Table 9. Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for patients with liver/kidney dysfunction receiving cisatracurium besylate. Data from studies of atracurium demonstrate that renal/hepatic failure in ICU patients produces little to no effect on its pharmacokinetics, but decreases the biotransformation and elimination of the metabolites. Following atracurium, t½β values for laudanosine were longer in ICU patients with renal failure than in ICU patients with normal renal function (15 and 6 hours, respectively). The t½β values of laudanosine were 39 ± 14 hours in ICU patients with liver failure receiving atracurium after an unsuccessful liver transplantation and 5 ± 2 hours in similar ICU patients after successful liver transplantation. Therefore, relative to ICU patients with normal renal and hepatic function receiving cisatracurium besylate, metabolite concentrations (plasma and tissues) may be higher in ICU patients with renal or hepatic failure (see PRECAUTIONS - Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit ). Consistent with the decreased infusion rate requirements for cisatracurium besylate, metabolite concentrations were lower in patients receiving cisatracurium besylate than in patients receiving atracurium besylate.

    The population PK/PD of cisatracurium were described in 20 healthy pediatric patients during halothane anesthesia, using the same model developed for healthy adult patients. The CL was higher in healthy pediatric patients (5.89 mL/min/kg) than in healthy adult patients (4.57 mL/min/kg) during opioid anesthesia. The rate of equilibration between plasma concentrations and neuromuscular block, as indicated by keo, was faster in healthy pediatric patients receiving halothane anesthesia (0.1330 minutes-1) than in healthy adult patients receiving opioid anesthesia (0.0575 minutes-1). The EC50 in healthy pediatric patients (125 ng/mL) was similar to the value in healthy adult patients (141 ng/mL) during opioid anesthesia. The minor differences in the PK/PD parameters of cisatracurium were associated with a faster time to onset and a shorter duration of cisatracurium-induced neuromuscular block in pediatric patients.

    Population PK/PD analyses revealed that gender and obesity were associated with statistically significant effects on the pharmacokinetics and/or pharmacodynamics of cisatracurium; these factors were not associated with clinically significant alterations in the predicted onset or recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate . The use of inhalation agents was associated with a 21% larger Vss, a 78% larger keo, and a 15% lower EC50 for cisatracurium. These changes resulted in a slightly faster (~ 45 seconds) predicted time to 90% T1 suppression in patients receiving 0.1 mg/kg cisatracurium during inhalation anesthesia than in patients receiving the same dose of cisatracurium during opioid anesthesia; however, there were no clinically significant differences in the predicted recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate between patient groups.

    Individualization of Dosages

    DOSES OF CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED AND A PERIPHERAL NERVE STIMULATOR SHOULD BE USED TO MEASURE NEUROMUSCULAR FUNCTION DURING ADMINISTRATION OF CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE IN ORDER TO MONITOR DRUG EFFECT, TO DETERMINE THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL DOSES, AND TO CONFIRM RECOVERY FROM NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCK.

    Based on the known action of cisatracurium besylate and other neuromuscular blocking agents, the following factors should be considered when administering cisatracurium besylate.

    Renal and Hepatic Disease

    See PRECAUTIONS section.

    Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

    The long-term infusion (up to 6 days) of cisatracurium during mechanical ventilation in the ICU has been evaluated in two studies. Average infusion rates of approximately 3 mcg/kg/min (range: 0.5 to 10.2) were required to achieve adequate neuromuscular block. As with other neuromuscular blocking agents, these data indicate the presence of wide interpatient variability in dosage requirements. In addition, dosage requirements may increase or decrease with time (see PRECAUTIONS ). Use of cisatracurium in the ICU for longer than 6 days has not been studied.

    Drugs or Conditions Causing Potentiation of or Resistance to Neuromuscular Block

    Persons with certain pre-existing conditions or receiving certain drugs may require individualization of dosing (see PRECAUTIONS ).

    Burns

    Patients with burns have been shown to develop resistance to nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, and may require individualization of dosing (see PRECAUTIONS ).

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Cisatracurium besylate injection is an intermediate-onset/intermediate-duration neuromuscular blocking agent indicated for inpatients and outpatients as an adjunct to general anesthesia, to facilitate tracheal intubation, and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery or mechanical ventilation in the ICU.

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Cisatracurium besylate injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the product and its components. The 10 mL multiple-dose vials of cisatracurium besylate injection is contraindicated for use in premature infants because the formulation contains benzyl alcohol. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS Pediatric Use ).

    WARNINGS

    Anaphylaxis

    Severe anaphylactic reactions to neuromuscular blocking agents, including cisatracurium besylate injection, have been reported. These reactions have in some cases been life-threatening and fatal. Due to the potential severity of these reactions, the necessary precautions, such as the immediate availability of appropriate emergency treatment, should be taken. Precautions should also be taken in those individuals who have had previous anaphylactic reactions to other neuromuscular blocking agents since cross-reactivity between neuromuscular blocking agents, both depolarizing and non-depolarizing, has been reported in this class of drugs.

    Administration

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED IN CAREFULLY ADJUSTED DOSAGE BY OR UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF EXPERIENCED CLINICIANS WHO ARE FAMILIAR WITH THE DRUG'S ACTIONS AND THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS OF ITS USE. THE DRUG SHOULD NOT BE ADMINISTERED UNLESS PERSONNEL AND FACILITIES FOR RESUSCITATION AND LIFE SUPPORT (TRACHEAL INTUBATION, ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION, OXYGEN THERAPY), AND AN ANTAGONIST OF CISATRACURIUM  BESYLATE ARE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT A PERIPHERAL NERVE STIMULATOR BE USED TO MEASURE NEUROMUSCULAR FUNCTION DURING THE ADMINISTRATION OF CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE IN ORDER TO MONITOR DRUG EFFECT, DETERMINE THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL DOSES, AND CONFIRM RECOVERY FROM NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCK.

    CISATRACURIUM  BESYLATE HAS NO KNOWN EFFECT ON CONSCIOUSNESS, PAIN THRESHOLD, OR CEREBRATION. TO AVOID DISTRESS TO THE PATIENT, NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCK SHOULD NOT BE INDUCED BEFORE UNCONSCIOUSNESS.

    Cisatracurium besylate injection is acidic (pH 3.25 to 3.65) and may not be compatible with alkaline solutions having a pH greater than 8.5 (e.g., barbiturate solutions).

    The 10 mL multiple-dose vials of cisatracurium besylate injection contain benzyl alcohol, which is potentially toxic when administered locally to neural tissue. Exposure to excessive amounts of benzyl alcohol has been associated with toxicity (hypotension, metabolic acidosis), particularly in neonates, and an increased incidence of kernicterus, particularly in small preterm infants. There have been rare reports of deaths, primarily in preterm infants, associated with exposure to excessive amounts of benzyl alcohol. The amount of benzyl alcohol from medications is usually considered negligible compared to that received in flush solution containing benzyl alcohol. Administration of high dosages of medications containing this preservative must take into account the total amount of benzyl alcohol administered. The amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known. If the patient requires more than the recommended dosages or other medications containing this preservative, the practitioner must consider the daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from these combined sources.

    PRECAUTIONS

    Because of its intermediate onset of action, cisatracurium besylate is not recommended for rapid sequence endotracheal intubation.

    Recommended doses of cisatracurium besylate have no clinically significant effects on heart rate; therefore, cisatracurium besylate will not counteract the bradycardia produced by many anesthetic agents or by vagal stimulation.

    Neuromuscular blocking agents may have a profound effect in patients with neuromuscular diseases (e.g., myasthenia gravis and the myasthenic syndrome). In these and other conditions in which prolonged neuromuscular block is a possibility (e.g., carcinomatosis), the use of a peripheral nerve stimulator and a dose of not more than 0.02 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate is recommended to assess the level of neuromuscular block and to monitor dosage requirements.

    Patients with burns have been shown to develop resistance to nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, including atracurium. The extent of altered response depends upon the size of the burn and the time elapsed since the burn injury. cisatracurium besylate has not been studied in patients with burns; however, based on its structural similarity to atracurium, the possibility of increased dosing requirements and shortened duration of action must be considered if cisatracurium besylate is administered to burn patients.

    Patients with hemiparesis or paraparesis also may demonstrate resistance to nondepolarizing muscle relaxants in the affected limbs. To avoid inaccurate dosing, neuromuscular monitoring should be performed on a non-paretic limb.

    Acid-base and/or serum electrolyte abnormalities may potentiate or antagonize the action of neuromuscular blocking agents. No data are available to support the use of cisatracurium besylate by intramuscular injection.

    Allergic Reactions

    Since allergic cross-reactivity has been reported in this class, request information from your patients about previous anaphylactic reactions to other neuromuscular blocking agents. In addition, inform your patients that severe anaphylactic reactions to neuromuscular blocking agents, including cisatracurium besylate have been reported (see CONTRAINDICATIONS ).

    Renal and Hepatic Disease

    No clinically significant alterations in the recovery profile were observed in patients with renal dysfunction or in patients with end-stage liver disease following a 0.1 mg/kg dose of cisatracurium. The onset time was approximately 1 minute faster in patients with end-stage liver disease and approximately 1 minute slower in patients with renal dysfunction than in healthy adult control patients.

    Malignant Hyperthermia (MH)

    In a study of MH-susceptible pigs, cisatracurium besylate (highest dose 2000 mcg/kg equivalent to 3 × ED95 in pigs and 40 × ED95 in humans) did not trigger MH. Cisatracurium besylate has not been studied in MH-susceptible patients. Because MH can develop in the absence of established triggering agents, the clinician should be prepared to recognize and treat MH in any patient undergoing general anesthesia.

    Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

    Long-term infusion (up to 6 days) of cisatracurium besylate during mechanical ventilation in the ICU has been safely used in two studies. Dosage requirements may increase or decrease with time (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Individualization of Dosages).

    Little information is available on the plasma levels and clinical consequences of cisatracurium metabolites that may accumulate during days to weeks of cisatracurium administration in ICU patients. Laudanosine, a major, biologically active metabolite of atracurium and cisatracurium without neuromuscular blocking activity, produces transient hypotension and, in higher doses, cerebral excitatory effects (generalized muscle twitching and seizures) when administered to several species of animals. There have been rare spontaneous reports of seizures in ICU patients who have received atracurium or other agents. These patients usually had predisposing causes (such as cranial trauma, cerebral edema, hypoxic encephalopathy, viral encephalitis, uremia). There are insufficient data to determine whether or not laudanosine contributes to seizures in ICU patients. Consistent with the decreased infusion rate requirements for cisatracurium besylate, laudanosine concentrations were lower in patients receiving cisatracurium besylate than in patients receiving atracurium for up to 48 hours (see Pharmacokinetics - Special Populations - Intensive Care Unit Patients ).

    In a randomized, double-blind study using train-of-four nerve stimulator monitoring to maintain at least one visible twitch, evaluable patients treated with cisatracurium besylate (n = 19) recovered neuromuscular function (T4:T1 ratio ≥ 70%) following termination of infusion in approximately 55 minutes (range: 20 to 270) whereas evaluable vecuronium-treated patients (n = 12) recovered in 178 minutes (range: 40 minutes to 33 hours). In another study comparing cisatracurium besylate and atracurium, patients recovered neuromuscular function in approximately 50 minutes for both cisatracurium besylate (range: 20 to 175; n = 34) and atracurium (range: 35 to 85; n = 15).

    WHENEVER THE USE OF CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE OR ANY OTHER NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCKING AGENT IN THE ICU IS CONTEMPLATED, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT NEUROMUSCULAR FUNCTION BE MONITORED DURING ADMINISTRATION WITH A NERVE STIMULATOR. ADDITIONAL DOSES OF CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE OR ANY OTHER NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCKING AGENT SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN BEFORE THERE IS A DEFINITE RESPONSE TO NERVE STIMULATION. IF NO RESPONSE IS ELICITED, INFUSION ADMINISTRATION SHOULD BE DISCONTINUED UNTIL A RESPONSE RETURNS.

    The effects of hemofiltration, hemodialysis, and hemoperfusion on plasma levels of cisatracurium besylate and its metabolites are unknown.

    Drug Interactions

    Cisatracurium besylate has been used safely following varying degrees of recovery from succinylcholine-induced neuromuscular block. Administration of 0.1 mg/kg (2 × ED95) cisatracurium besylate at 10% or 95% recovery following an intubating dose of succinylcholine (1 mg/kg) produced ≥ 95% neuromuscular block. The time to onset of maximum block following cisatracurium besylate is approximately 2 minutes faster with prior administration of succinylcholine. Prior administration of succinylcholine had no effect on the duration of neuromuscular block following initial or maintenance bolus doses of cisatracurium besylate. Infusion requirements of cisatracurium besylate in patients administered succinylcholine prior to infusions of cisatracurium besylate were comparable to or slightly greater than when succinylcholine was not administered.

    The use of cisatracurium besylate before succinylcholine to attenuate some of the side effects of succinylcholine has not been studied.

    Although not studied systematically in clinical trials, no drug interactions were observed when vecuronium, pancuronium, or atracurium were administered following varying degrees of recovery from single doses or infusions of cisatracurium besylate.

    Isoflurane or enflurane administered with nitrous oxide/oxygen to achieve 1.25 MAC [Minimum Alveolar Concentration] may prolong the clinically effective duration of action of initial and maintenance doses of cisatracurium besylate and decrease the required infusion rate of cisatracurium besylate. The magnitude of these effects may depend on the duration of administration of the volatile agents. Fifteen to 30 minutes of exposure to 1.25 MAC isoflurane or enflurane had minimal effects on the duration of action of initial doses of cisatracurium besylate and therefore, no adjustment to the initial dose should be necessary when cisatracurium besylate is administered shortly after initiation of volatile agents. In long surgical procedures during enflurane or isoflurane anesthesia, less frequent maintenance dosing, lower maintenance doses, or reduced infusion rates of cisatracurium besylate may be necessary. The average infusion rate requirement may be decreased by as much as 30% to 40%.

    In clinical studies propofol had no effect on the duration of action or dosing requirements for cisatracurium besylate.

    Other drugs which may enhance the neuromuscular blocking action of nondepolarizing agents such as cisatracurium besylate include certain antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, bacitracin, polymyxins, lincomycin, clindamycin, colistin, and sodium colistemethate), magnesium salts, lithium, local anesthetics, procainamide, and quinidine.

    Resistance to the neuromuscular blocking action of nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents has been demonstrated in patients chronically administered phenytoin or carbamazepine. While the effects of chronic phenytoin or carbamazepine therapy on the action of cisatracurium besylate are unknown, slightly shorter durations of neuromuscular block may be anticipated and infusion rate requirements may be higher.

    Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions

    None known.

    Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Carcinogenesis and fertility studies have not been performed. Cisatracurium besylate was evaluated in a battery of four short-term mutagenicity tests. It was non-mutagenic in the Ames Salmonella assay, a rat bone marrow cytogenetic assay, and an in vitro human lymphocyte cytogenetics assay. As was the case with atracurium, the mouse lymphoma assay was positive both in the presence and absence of exogenous metabolic activation (rat liver S-9). In the absence of S-9, cisatracurium besylate was positive at in vitro cisatracurium concentrations of 40 mcg/mL and higher. The highest non-mutagenic concentration (30 mcg/mL) and incubation time (4 hours) resulted in an AUC approximately 120 times that noted in clinical studies and approximately 8.5 times the mean peak clinical concentration noted. In the presence of S-9, cisatracurium besylate was positive at a cisatracurium concentration of 300 mcg/mL but not at lower or higher concentrations.

    Pregnancy

    Teratogenic Effects

    Teratology testing in nonventilated pregnant rats treated subcutaneously with maximum subparalyzing doses (4 mg/kg daily; equivalent to 8 × the human ED95 following a bolus dose of 0.2 mg/kg IV) and in ventilated rats treated intravenously with paralyzing doses of cisatracurium besylate at 0.5 and 1 mg/kg; equivalent to 10 × and 20 × the human ED95 dose, respectively, revealed no maternal or fetal toxicity or teratogenic effects. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of cisatracurium besylate in pregnant women. Because animal studies are not always predictive of human response, cisatracurium besylate should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

    Labor and Delivery

    The use of cisatracurium besylate during labor, vaginal delivery, or cesarean section has not been studied in humans and it is not known whether cisatracurium besylate administered to the mother has effects on the fetus. Doses of 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg cisatracurium given to female beagles undergoing cesarean section resulted in negligible levels of cisatracurium in umbilical vessel blood of neonates and no deleterious effects on the puppies. The action of neuromuscular blocking agents may be enhanced by magnesium salts administered for the management of toxemia of pregnancy.

    Nursing Mothers

    It is not known whether cisatracurium besylate is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised following administration of cisatracurium besylate to a nursing woman.

    Pediatric Use

    Cisatracurium besylate has not been studied in pediatric patients below the age of 1 month (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for clinical experience and recommendations for use in children 1 month to 12 years of age). Intubation of the trachea in patients 1-4 years old was facilitated more reliably when cisatracurium besylate was used in combination with Halothane than when opioids and nitrous oxide were used for induction of anesthesia.

    The 10 mL multiple-dose vials of cisatracurium besylate injection contain benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Benzyl alcohol, a component of this product, has been associated with serious adverse events and death, particularly in pediatric patients. The “gasping syndrome”, (characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, gasping respirations, and high levels of benzyl alcohol and its metabolites found in the blood and urine) has been associated with benzyl alcohol dosages >99 mg/kg/day in neonates and low-birth-weight neonates. Additional symptoms may include gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic and renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Although normal therapeutic doses of this product deliver amounts of benzyl alcohol that are substantially lower than those reported in association with the “gasping syndrome”, the minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known. Premature and low-birth-weight infants, as well as patients receiving high dosages, may be more likely to develop toxicity. Practitioners administering this and other medications containing benzyl alcohol should consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources.

    Geriatric Use

    Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of cisatracurium besylate, 57 were 65 and over, 63 were 70 and over, and 15 were 80 and over. The geriatric population included a subset of patients with significant cardiovascular disease (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Hemodynamics Profile and Special Populations - Geriatric Patients subsections). No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals to cisatracurium besylate cannot be ruled out.

    Minor differences in the pharmacokinetics of cisatracurium besylate between elderly and young adult patients are not associated with clinically significant differences in the recovery profile of cisatracurium besylate following a single 0.1 mg/kg dose; the time to maximum block is approximately 1 minute slower in elderly patients (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Pharmacokinetics ).

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE ADVERSE REACTIONS

    Observed in Clinical Trials of Surgical Patients

    Adverse experiences were uncommon among the 945 surgical patients who received cisatracurium besylate in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies in the course of a wide variety of procedures in patients receiving opioid, propofol, or inhalation anesthesia. The following adverse experiences were judged by investigators during the clinical trials to have a possible causal relationship to administration of cisatracurium besylate:

    Incidence Greater than 1%

    None.

    Incidence Less than 1%

    bradycardia (0.4%)
    hypotension (0.2%)
    flushing (0.2%).

    bronchospasm (0.2%).

    rash (0.1%).

    Observed in Clinical Trials of Intensive Care Unit Patients

    Adverse experiences were uncommon among the 68 ICU patients who received cisatracurium besylate in conjunction with other drugs in US and European clinical studies. One patient experienced bronchospasm. In one of the two ICU studies, a randomized and double-blind study of ICU patients using TOF neuromuscular monitoring, there were two reports of prolonged recovery (167 and 270 minutes) among 28 patients administered cisatracurium besylate and 13 reports of prolonged recovery (range: 90 minutes to 33 hours) among 30 patients administered vecuronium.

    Observed During Clinical Practice

    In addition to adverse events reported from clinical trials, the following events have been identified during post-approval use of cisatracurium besylate in conjunction with one or more anesthetic agents in clinical practice. Because they are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. These events have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting, or potential causal connection to cisatracurium besylate.

    General

    Histamine release, hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions which, in some cases have been life threatening and fatal. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS ). There are rare reports of wheezing, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, rash and itching following administration of cisatracurium besylate in children. These reported adverse events were not serious and their etiology could not be established with certainty.

    Musculoskeletal

    Prolonged neuromuscular block, inadequate neuromuscular block, muscle weakness, and myopathy.

    OVERDOSAGE

    Overdosage with neuromuscular blocking agents may result in neuromuscular block beyond the time needed for surgery and anesthesia. The primary treatment is maintenance of a patent airway and controlled ventilation until recovery of normal neuromuscular function is assured. Once recovery from neuromuscular block begins, further recovery may be facilitated by administration of an anticholinesterase agent (e.g., neostigmine, edrophonium) in conjunction with an appropriate anticholinergic agent (see Antagonism of Neuromuscular Block below).

    Antagonism of Neuromuscular Block

    ANTAGONISTS (SUCH AS NEOSTIGMINE AND EDROPHONIUM) SHOULD NOT BE ADMINISTERED WHEN COMPLETE NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCK IS EVIDENT OR SUSPECTED. THE USE OF A PERIPHERAL NERVE STIMULATOR TO EVALUATE RECOVERY AND ANTAGONISM OF NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCK IS RECOMMENDED.

    Administration of 0.04 to 0.07 mg/kg neostigmine at approximately 10% recovery from neuromuscular block (range: 0 to 15%) produced 95% recovery of the muscle twitch response and a T4:T1 ratio ≥ 70% in an average of 9 to 10 minutes. The times from 25% recovery of the muscle twitch response to a T4:T1 ratio ≥ 70% following these doses of neostigmine averaged 7 minutes. The mean 25% to 75% recovery index following reversal was 3 to 4 minutes.

    Administration of 1 mg/kg edrophonium at approximately 25% recovery from neuromuscular block (range: 16% to 30%) produced 95% recovery and a T4:T1 ratio ≥ 70% in an average of 3 to 5 minutes.

    Patients administered antagonists should be evaluated for evidence of adequate clinical recovery (e.g., 5-second head lift and grip strength). Ventilation must be supported until no longer required.

    The onset of antagonism may be delayed in the presence of debilitation, cachexia, carcinomatosis, and the concomitant use of certain broad spectrum antibiotics, or anesthetic agents and other drugs which enhance neuromuscular block or separately cause respiratory depression (see PRECAUTIONS - Drug Interactions ). Under such circumstances the management is the same as that of prolonged neuromuscular block (see OVERDOSAGE ).

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    NOTE: CONTAINS BENZYL ALCOHOL (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS: Pediatric Use)

    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE INJECTION SHOULD ONLY BE ADMINISTERED INTRAVENOUSLY.

    The dosage information provided below is intended as a guide only. Doses of cisatracurium besylate injection should be individualized (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY- Individualization of Dosages). The use of a peripheral nerve stimulator will permit the most advantageous use of cisatracurium besylate injection, minimize the possibility of overdosage or underdosage , and assist in the evaluation of recovery.

    Adults

    Initial Doses

    One of two intubating doses of cisatracurium besylate may be chosen, based on the desired time to tracheal intubation and the anticipated length of surgery. In addition to the dose of neuromuscular blocking agent, the presence of co-induction agents (e.g., fentanyl and midazolam) and the depth of anesthesia are factors that can influence intubation conditions. Doses of 0.15 (3 × ED95) and 0.20 (4 × ED95) mg/kg cisatracurium besylate, as components of a propofol/nitrous oxide/oxygen induction-intubation technique, may produce generally GOOD or EXCELLENT conditions for intubation in 2 and 1.5 minutes, respectively. Similar intubation conditions may be expected when these doses of cisatracurium besylate injection are administered as components of a thiopental/nitrous oxide/oxygen induction-intubation technique. In two intubation studies using thiopental or propofol and midazolam and fentanyl as co-induction agents, EXCELLENT intubation conditions were most frequently achieved with the 0.2 mg/kg compared to 0.15 mg/kg dose of cisatracurium besylate injection. The clinically effective durations of action for 0.15 and 0.20 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate injection during propofol anesthesia are 55 minutes (range: 44 to 74 minutes) and 61 minutes (range: 41 to 81 minutes), respectively. Lower doses may result in a longer time for the development of satisfactory intubation conditions. Doses up to 8 × ED95 cisatracurium besylate injection have been safely administered to healthy adult patients and patients with serious cardiovascular disease. These larger doses are associated with longer clinically effective durations of action (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ).

    Because slower times to onset of complete neuromuscular block were observed in elderly patients and patients with renal dysfunction, extending the interval between administration of cisatracurium besylate injection and the intubation attempt for these patients may be required to achieve adequate intubation conditions.

    A dose of 0.03 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate injection is recommended for maintenance of neuromuscular block during prolonged surgical procedures. Maintenance doses of 0.03 mg/kg each sustain neuromuscular block for approximately 20 minutes. Maintenance dosing is generally required 40 to 50 minutes following an initial dose of 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate injection and 50 to 60 minutes following an initial dose of 0.20 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate injection, but the need for maintenance doses should be determined by clinical criteria. For shorter or longer durations of action, smaller or larger maintenance doses may be administered.

    Isoflurane or enflurane administered with nitrous oxide/oxygen to achieve 1.25 MAC (Minimum Alveolar Concentration) may prolong the clinically effective duration of action of initial and maintenance doses. The magnitude of these effects may depend on the duration of administration of the volatile agents. Fifteen to 30 minutes of exposure to 1.25 MAC isoflurane or enflurane had minimal effects on the duration of action of initial doses of cisatracurium besylate injection and therefore, no adjustment to the initial dose should be necessary when cisatracurium besylate injection is administered shortly after initiation of volatile agents. In long surgical procedures during enflurane or isoflurane anesthesia, less frequent maintenance dosing or lower maintenance doses of cisatracurium besylate injection may be necessary. No adjustments to the initial dose of cisatracurium besylate injection are required when used in patients receiving propofol anesthesia.

    Children

    Initial Doses

    The recommended dose of cisatracurium besylate injection for children 2 to 12 years of age is 0.10 to 0.15 mg/kg administered over 5 to 10 seconds during either halothane or opioid anesthesia. When administered during stable opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia, 0.10 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate injection produces maximum neuromuscular block in an average of 2.8 minutes (range: 1.8 to 6.7 minutes) and clinically effective block for 28 minutes (range: 21 to 38 minutes). When administered during stable opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia, 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate produces maximum neuromuscular block in about 3 minutes (range: 1.5 to 8 minutes) and clinically effective block (time to 25% recovery) for 36 minutes (range:  29 to 46 minutes).

    Infants

    Initial Doses

    The recommended dose of cisatracurium besylate injection for intubation of infants 1 month to 23 months is 0.15 mg/kg administered over 5 to 10 seconds during either halothane or opioid anesthesia. When administered during stable opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia, 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium besylate produces maximum neuromuscular block in about 2 minutes (range: 1.3 to 3.4 minutes) and clinically effective block (time to 25% recovery) for about 43 minutes (range: 34 to 58 minutes).

    Use by Continuous Infusion

    Infusion in the Operating Room (OR)

    After administration of an initial bolus dose of cisatracurium besylate injection, a diluted solution of cisatracurium besylate can be administered by continuous infusion to adults and children aged 2 or more years for maintenance of neuromuscular block during extended surgical procedures. Infusion of cisatracurium besylate injection should be individualized for each patient. The rate of administration should be adjusted according to the patient's response as determined by peripheral nerve stimulation. Accurate dosing is best achieved using a precision infusion device.

    Infusion of cisatracurium besylate injection should be initiated only after early evidence of spontaneous recovery from the initial bolus dose. An initial infusion rate of 3 mcg/kg/min may be required to rapidly counteract the spontaneous recovery of neuromuscular function. Thereafter, a rate of 1 to 2 mcg/kg/min should be adequate to maintain continuous neuromuscular block in the range of 89% to 99% in most pediatric and adult patients under opioid/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia.

    Reduction of the infusion rate by up to 30% to 40% should be considered when cisatracurium besylate injection is administered during stable isoflurane or enflurane anesthesia (administered with nitrous oxide/oxygen at the 1.25 MAC level). Greater reductions in the infusion rate of cisatracurium besylate injection may be required with longer durations of administration of isoflurane or enflurane.

    The rate of infusion of atracurium required to maintain adequate surgical relaxation in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery with induced hypothermia (25° to 28°C) is approximately half the rate required during normothermia. Based on the structural similarity between cisatracurium besylate injection and atracurium, a similar effect on the infusion rate of cisatracurium besylate injection may be expected.

    Spontaneous recovery from neuromuscular block following discontinuation of infusion of cisatracurium besylate may be expected to proceed at a rate comparable to that following administration of a single bolus dose.

    Infusion in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

    The principles for infusion of cisatracurium besylate injection in the OR are also applicable to use in the ICU. An infusion rate of approximately 3 mcg/kg/min (range: 0.5 to 10.2 mcg/kg/min) should provide adequate neuromuscular block in adult patients in the ICU. There may be wide interpatient variability in dosage requirements and these may increase or decrease with time (see PRECAUTIONS - Long-Term Use in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ). Following recovery from neuromuscular block, readministration of a bolus dose may be necessary to quickly re-establish neuromuscular block prior to reinstitution of the infusion.

    Infusion Rate Tables

    The amount of infusion solution required per minute will depend upon the concentration of cisatracurium besylate in the infusion solution, the desired dose of cisatracurium besylate, and the patient's weight. The contribution of the infusion solution to the fluid requirements of the patient also must be considered. Tables 10 and 11 provide guidelines for delivery, in mL/hr (equivalent to microdrops/minute when 60 microdrops = 1 mL), of cisatracurium besylate solutions in concentrations of 0.1 mg/mL (10 mg/100 mL) or 0.4 mg/mL (40 mg/100 mL).

    Table 10. Infusion Rates of Cisatracurium Besylate for Maintenance of Neuromuscular Block During Opioid/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia for a Concentration of 0.1 mg/mL
    Drug Delivery Rate (mcg/kg/min)

    1

    1.5

    2

    3

    5

    Patient Weight (kg)

    Infusion Delivery Rate (mL/ hr )

    10

    6

    9

    12

    18

    30

    45

    27

    41

    54

    81

    135

    70

    42

    63

    84

    126

    210

    100

    60

    90

    120

    180

    300

    Table 11. Infusion Rates of Cisatracurium Besylate for Maintenance of Neuromuscular Block During Opioid/Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Anesthesia for a Concentration of 0.4 mg/mL
    Drug Delivery Rate (mcg/kg/min)

    1

    1.5

    2

    3

    5

    Patient Weight (kg)

    Infusion Delivery Rate (mL/ hr )

    10

    1.5

    2.3

    3

    4.5

    7.5

    45

    6.8

    10.1

    13.5

    20.3

    33.8

    70

    10.5

    15.8

    21

    31.5

    52.5

    100

    15

    22.5

    30

    45

    75

    Cisatracurium Besylate Injection Compatibility and Admixtures

    Y-site Administration

    Cisatracurium besylate injection is acidic (pH = 3.25 to 3.65) and may not be compatible with alkaline solution having a pH greater than 8.5 (e.g., barbiturate solutions).

    Studies have shown that cisatracurium besylate injection is compatible with:

    • •5% Dextrose injection, USP
    • •0.9% Sodium chloride injection, USP
    • •5% Dextrose and 0.9% sodium chloride injection, USP
    • •SUFENTA® (sufentanil citrate) injection, diluted as directed
    • •ALFENTA® (alfentanil hydrochloride) injection, diluted as directed
    • •SUBLIMAZE® (fentanyl citrate) injection, diluted as directed
    • •VERSED® (midazolam hydrochloride) injection, diluted as directed
    • •Droperidol injection, diluted as directed

    Cisatracurium besylate injection is not compatible with DIPRIVAN® (propofol) injection or TORADOL® (ketorolac) injection for Y-site administration. Studies of other parenteral products have not been conducted.

    Dilution Stability

    Cisatracurium besylate injection diluted in 5% Dextrose Injection, USP; 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP; or 5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to 0.1 mg/mL may be stored either under refrigeration or at room temperature for 24 hours without significant loss of potency. Dilutions to 0.1 mg/mL or 0.2 mg/mL in 5% Dextrose and Lactated Ringer's Injection may be stored under refrigeration for 24 hours.

    Cisatracurium besylate injection should not be diluted in Lactated Ringer's Injection, USP due to chemical instability.

    NOTE: Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. Solutions which are not clear, or contain visible particulates, should not be used. Cisatracurium besylate injection is a colorless to slightly yellow or greenish-yellow solution.

    HOW SUPPLIED

    Cisatracurium besylate injection, 2 mg cisatracurium per mL, is supplied as under:

    NDC Container Size

    0781-3152-95

    10 mL Multiple-dose Vial

    Pack of 10’s

    NOTE :10 mL Multiple-dose Vials contain 0.9% w/v benzyl alcohol as a preservative (see WARNINGS concerning newborn infants).

    Storage

    Cisatracurium besylate injection should be refrigerated at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) in the carton to preserve potency. Protect from light. DO NOT FREEZE. Upon removal from refrigeration to room temperature storage conditions (25°C/77°F), use cisatracurium besylate injection within 21 days even if rerefrigerated.

    To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sandoz Inc. at 1-800-525-8747 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

    Manufactured in India by Gland Pharma Limited

    for Sandoz Inc., Princeton, NJ 08540

    Rev: April 2012

    Principal Display Panel

    NDC 0781-3152-70

    Cisatracurium Besylate Injection

    20 mg/10 mL*

    (2 mg/mL)

    For Intravenous Injection

    0.9 % benzyl alcohol

    (added as a preservative)

    10 mL Multiple Dose Vial

    Rx only

    Sandoz

    cisatracurium besylate

    cisatracurium besylate INJECTION

    Product Information

    Product Type Human prescription drug label Item Code (Source) NDC:0781-3152
    Route of Administration INTRAVENOUS DEA Schedule

    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety

    Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength
    CISATRACURIUM BESYLATE CISATRACURIUM 2 mg

    Inactive Ingredients

    Ingredient Name Strength
    BENZENESULFONIC ACID
    BENZYL ALCOHOL
    water

    Packaging

    # Item Code Package Description Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
    1 NDC:0781-3152-70 10 in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE
    2 NDC:0781-3152-95 10 in 1 CARTON

    Marketing Information

    Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
    ANDA ANDA200159 2012-07-16


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