Kymab secures US$100 million Series C funding

On November 24, 2016 Kymab Group Limited ("Kymab"), a leading monoclonal antibody biopharmaceutical group, reported that it has successfully secured a US$100 million (£81 million) Series C financing (Press release, Kymab, NOV 24, 2016, View Source [SID1234537010]). The financing was led by new investors ORI Healthcare Fund L.P. ("ORI Fund") with participation by Shenzhen Hepalink Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd ("Hepalink") as well as follow-on investments from existing shareholders: Wellcome Trust, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Malin Corporation plc, CF Woodford Equity Income Fund and Woodford Patient Capital plc.

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The funds will enable Kymab to advance its proprietary pipeline of first-in-class therapeutic human monoclonal antibodies the first of which is commencing clinical development in 2017.

"We are delighted to welcome new investors ORI Fund and Hepalink and would like to thank our existing investors for their continued support in our goal of building Kymab into a sustainable global biopharmaceutical company with a pipeline of products in four main therapeutic areas: immuno-oncology, auto-immunity, haematology and infectious disease," says Dr Dave Chiswell, CEO of Kymab.

"ORI Fund and Hepalink bring deep experience of the pharmaceutical industry. Hepalink has a global reach for their products and have biologics manufacturing capability in the US. This investment will help us maximise the potential of the Kymab pipeline as we develop and commercialise monoclonal antibody medicines for patients world-wide."

"We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to invest in Kymab which is equipped with world class technologies, world class programs, a world class team and world class investors," says Ms Simone Song, Senior Partner of ORI Fund. "We look forward to working with Dave and his team to fully realise the potential of Kymab as it enters into the clinic with a global presence."

"We have had a biologics strategy for a number of years and believe Kymab has one of the most comprehensive humanised transgenic antibody platforms which is already delivering first-in-class antibodies," explains Mr Li Li, President and Chairman of Hepalink. "We are pleased to invest in a world leading antibody company and look forward to potential collaborative opportunities with Kymab"

Kymab is using the Kymouse transgenic human antibody platform to discover and develop fully human monoclonal antibody drugs. Data published in Nature Biotechnology demonstrate that the Kymouse technology yields an antibody library constituted from 100 trillion different antibodies. From this deep library rare high-quality antibodies can be selected and developed into therapeutics.

Five of the top ten best-selling drugs are antibodies. This is because antibodies are natural products with exquisite specificity and potency, and generally have superior safety profiles. The challenge has been to capture the full human antibody repertoire and to recapitulate all its attributes.

The Series C follows the US$120 million Series A and B financings.

Notes to Editors
Issued 24 November, 2016

Navidea Signs Asset Purchase Agreement with Cardinal Health

On November 23, 2016 Navidea Biopharmaceuticals (NYSE MKT: NAVB) reported that it has entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement with Cardinal Health (NYSE: CAH) (Press release, Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, NOV 23, 2016, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2225596 [SID1234516774]). Pursuant to the purchase agreement, Cardinal Health will purchase Navidea’s Lymphoseek product for lymphatic mapping, lymph node biopsy and the diagnosis of metastatic spread to lymph nodes for the staging of cancer in North America. Navidea will receive $80 million at closing, plus the opportunity to earn up to $230 million of contingent consideration based on certain milestones through 2026, with $20.1 million of that amount guaranteed over the next 3 years.

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As part of the transaction, Cardinal Health will license a portion of the acquired intellectual property back to Navidea to allow Navidea to develop and sell new immunodiagnostic and immunotherapeutic products for specific purposes in North America, and to continue to produce and sell Lymphoseek, mostly under a different brand, outside of North America.

Michael M. Goldberg, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, Navidea Biopharmaceuticals said, "This transaction is very exciting for Navidea and its shareholders as it will enable the company to extinguish the CRG debt and to focus the company on several attractive development efforts. With our proven delivery system and broad pipeline of clinical and preclinical products addressing very large commercial opportunities, we intend to build a world-class and highly focused development effort. We will leverage our team and financial resources by continuing to seek non-dilutive grant funding and partnerships with leading academic and commercial entities. We have successfully completed two grant-funded clinical studies in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cardiovascular disease with academic collaborators and have continued our progress with other successful preclinical studies with candidates from our proprietary Macrophage Therapeutics pipeline."

The proposed transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of each company, but remains subject to customary conditions, including approval by Navidea’s shareholders, receipt of applicable regulatory approvals and the absence of a material adverse effect. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2017.

Proxy materials are being drafted and will be distributed to shareholders as soon as Navidea receives regulatory clearance.

Xenetic Biosciences to Host Quarterly Update Conference Call and Webcast

On November 23, 2019 Xenetic Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: XBIO) ("Xenetic" or the "Company"), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, research and development of next-generation biologic drugs and novel orphan oncology therapeutics, reported that the Company’s management team will host a quarterly update conference call with a live webcast for investors, analysts and other interested parties (Press release, Xenetic Biosciences, NOV 23, 2016, View Source [SID1234537808]).

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During the conference call, the Company will provide a corporate update and discuss the clinical and regulatory progress for its in-house product candidates, as well as those being developed with Xenetic’s biotechnology and pharmaceutical partners. Xenetic’s current in-house product pipeline includes Virexxa (sodium cridanimod), which is being evaluated for the treatment of endometrial cancer and triple negative breast cancer, and ErepoXen, a polysialylated form of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone created by the kidneys to maintain red blood cell production and prevent anemia. Xenetic is also currently evaluating OncoHist for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in refractory patients and refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Conference Call and Webcast Information

Xenetic management will host a conference call for investors, analysts and other interested parties on Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. ET. The conference call and live webcast will be accompanied by presentation slides.

To participate in the call, please dial (877) 407-6914 (domestic) or (201) 493-6709 (international). The live webcast and accompanying slides will be available by accessing the IR Calendar in the Investors section of Xenetic’s website (www.xeneticbio.com). A replay of the webcast will be available for 90 days, starting approximately two hours after the presentation ends.

Direct Injection of CAR-Engineered CD19.taNK Cells Demonstrating Potential “Vaccine” Protective Effect to be Highlighted in Oral Presentation at the 58th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology

On November 22, 2016 NantKwest Inc. (Nasdaq:NK), a pioneering, next-generation, clinical-stage immunotherapy company focused on harnessing the unique power of our immune system using natural killer (NK) cells to treat cancer, infectious diseases and inflammatory diseases, reported that the Company’s abstract reviewing data on the company’s CD19.taNK program has been accepted for an oral presentation at the upcoming 58th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) in San Diego, CA, December 3-6, 2016 (Press release, NantKwest, NOV 22, 2016, http://ir.nantkwest.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=254059&p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2225427 [SID1234516781]).

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"NantKwest’s transition from preclinical to clinical studies continues to make significant progress," said Patrick Soon-Shiong, MD, Chairman and CEO of NantKwest. "In these preclinical studies, aNK cells expressing a CD19-CAR (CD19.taNK) demonstrated strong killing of CD19-positive cancer cells. In addition, direct tumor injections of CD19.taNK into a fully immunocompetent mouse model induces tumor clearance and protection from tumor re-challenge, suggesting the induction of a memory (‘vaccine’) protective effect after the injection of the CD19.taNK cell."

Presentation Summary

Intra-Tumor Injection of CAR-Engineered NK Cells Induces Tumor Regression and Protection Against Tumor Re-Challenge

Abstract #466, View Source
Presenter: Laurent Boissel, PhD, NantKwest, Woburn, MA
Sunday, December 4, 2016, 5:15 PM, Room 5AB
This poster will review the potential use of CD19.taNK cells to effectively kill cancer cells. In vivo preclinical studies of direct tumor injection of CD19.taNK cells induces significant tumor regression and significantly improved survival, with 75% of the mice showing complete tumor regression at day 32 (p<0.05). Upon re-challenge with A20 lymphoma cells, >80% mice remained free of tumor after 14 days.

Nearly 350 Abstracts Evaluating Celgene Therapies to Be Presented at American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting (ASH)

On November 22, 2016 Celgene Corporation (NASDAQ:CELG) reported that data from nearly 350 abstracts, including more than 150 oral presentations, evaluating Celgene investigational agents and investigational uses of marketed products will be presented at the 58th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting between Dec. 3-6 in San Diego, California (Press release, Celgene, NOV 22, 2016, View Source [SID1234516753]).

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Relevant presentations will include investigational data from Celgene agents in company-sponsored and investigator-initiated studies.

"Once again we look forward to an impactful collection of clinical and scientific data at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) providing new insights into a broad range of hematologic malignancies," said Michael Pehl, President, Hematology and Oncology for Celgene. "The studies being shared this year underscore our continuing commitment to delivering innovative therapies to patients with serious blood cancers around the world."

Selected abstracts include*:

Multiple Myeloma

Clinical Data on Lenalidomide in Myeloma:

Abstract #241; Oral; Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 p.m., Seaport Ballroom ABCD (Manchester Grand Hyatt) Final Analysis of Overall Survival from the FIRST Trial (Facon)

Abstract #537; Oral; Sunday, Dec. 4, 5 p.m., Room 29 Health related Quality of Life in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Receiving Any or Lenalidomide Maintenance after Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in the Connect MM Disease Registry (Abonour)

Abstract #673; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 7 a.m., Seaport Ballroom DE (Manchester Grand Hyatt) Intensification Therapy with Bortezomib-Melphalan-Prednisone Versus Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: An Intergroup, Multicenter, Phase III Study of the European Myeloma Network (EMN02/HO95 MM Trial) (Cavo)

Abstract #1143; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m., Seaport Ballroom ABCD (Manchester Grand Hyatt) Lenalidomide is a Highly-Effective Maintenance Therapy in Myeloma Patients of All Ages; results of the Phase III Myeloma XI Study (Jackson)

Abstract #4497; Poster; Monday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Hall GH Pomalidomide + Low-Dose Dexamethasone Following Second-Line Lenalidomide-Based Therapy in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Phase 2 Study Investigating Efficacy and Safety (Siegel)

Clinical Data on Pomalidomide in Relapsed/Refractory Myeloma:

Abstract #2119; Poster; Saturday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., Hall GH Pembrolizumab in Combination with Pomalidomide and Dexamethasone (PEMBRO/POM/DEX) for Pomalidomide Exposed Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (Wilson)

Abstract #3316; Poster; Sunday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m., Hall GH A Phase I/II Trial of Ixazomib (Ix), Pomalidomide (POM) and Dexamethasone (DEX), in Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Multiple Myeloma (MM) Patients; Responses in Double Refractory and High Risk Disease (Krishnan)

Abstract #3307; Poster; Sunday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m., Hall GH Selective HDAC6 Inhibitor ACY-241, an Oral Tablet, Combined with Pomalidomide and Dexamethasone: Safety and Efficacy of Escalation and Expansion Cohorts in Patients with Relapsed or Relapsed-and-Refractory Multiple Myeloma (ACE-MM-200 Study) (Niesvizky)

Abstract #1145; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m., Seaport Ballroom BC (Manchester Grand Hyatt) A Multicenter, Open Label Phase I/II Study of Carfilzomib, Pomalidomide and Dexamethasone in Relapsed and/or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (MM) Patients (Bringhen)

Abstract #1151; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m., Hall AB Efficacy of Daratumumab, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone Versus Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma Patients with 1 to 3 Prior Lines of Therapy: Updated Analysis of Pollux (Usmani)

Early Development Initiatives in Myeloma:

Abstract #1591; Poster; Saturday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., Hall GH CC-220 is a Potent Cereblon Modulating Agent that Displays Anti-proliferative, Pro-Apoptotic and Immunomodulatory Activity on Sensitive and Resistant Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines (Bjorklund)

Abstract #1592; Poster; Saturday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., Hall GH CC-122 is a Cereblon Modulating Agent that is Active in Lenalidomide-Resistant and Lenalidomide/Dexamethasone-Double-Resistant Multiple Myeloma Pre-clinical Models (Bjorklund)

Abstract #196; Oral; Saturday, Dec. 3, 2:45 p.m., Grand Hall D (Manchester Grand Hyatt) The Multiple Myeloma Genome Project: Development of a Molecular Segmentation Strategy for the Clinical Classification of Multiple Myeloma (Walker)

Lymphomas/CLL

Lenalidomide Maintenance Data:

Abstract #229; Oral; Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 p.m., Room 5AB Lenalidomide Maintenance after Front Line Therapy Substantially Prolongs Progression Free Survival in High Risk CLL: Interim Results of a Phase 3 Study (CLL M1 study of the German CLL Study Group) (Fink)

Abstract #230; Oral; Saturday, Dec. 3, 4:15 p.m., Room 5AB Results of the Phase III Study of Lenalidomide Versus Placebo as Maintenance Therapy Following Second-Line Treatment for Patients with B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (the CONTINUUM Trial) (Foa)

Abstract #471; Oral; Sunday, Dec. 4, 5 p.m., Room 6B Final Analysis of an International Double-Blind randomized Phase III Study of Lenalidomide Maintenance in Elderly Patients with DLBCL Treated with R-CHOP in First Line, the REMARC Study from LYSA (Thieblemont)

Lenalidomide Combination Data:

Abstract #1798; Poster; Saturday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., Hall GH MAGNIFY: Phase IIIb Randomized Study of Lenalidomide Plus Rituximab (R2) Followed by Lenalidomide vs. Rituximab Maintenance in Subjects with Relapsed/Refractory Follicular, Marginal Zone, or Mantle Cell Lymphoma (Andorsky)

Abstract #473; Oral; Sunday, Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m., Room 6B A Multicenter Open-Label Phase 1b/2 Study of Ibrutinib in Combination with Lenalidomide and Rituximab in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) (Goy)

Abstract #1099; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 4:30 p.m., Ballroom 20A Rituximab Plus Lenalidomide Versus Rituximab Monotherapy in Untreated Follicular Lymphoma Patients in Need of Therapy. First Analysis of Survival Endpoints of the Randomized Phase II Trial SAKK 35/10 (Kimby)

Abstract #4199; Poster; Monday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Hall GH A Phase 1B Study of CC 122 in Combination with Obinutuzumab (GA101) in Relapsed or Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and Indolent Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (Michot)

Lenalidomide Data in Mantle Cell Lymphoma:

Abstract #1786; Poster; Saturday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., Hall GH Effectiveness of Lenalidomide in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Patients who Relapsed/Progressed After or were Refractory/Intolerant to Ibrutinib: The MCL-004 Study (Wang)

Abstract #4188; Poster; Monday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Hall GH CC-122 Exhibits Greater Preclinical Activity in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Than Lenalidomide Through A Combination of Direct Cell-autonomous and Increased Antibody Dependent Cell-mediated Cytotoxicity (Hagner)

Surrogate Outcomes Data:

Abstract #3027; Poster; Sunday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m., Hall GH Utility of Progression-Free Survival at 24 months (PFS24) to Predict Subsequent Outcome for Patients with Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) Enrolled on Randomized Clinical Trials: Findings from a Surrogate Endpoint in Aggressive Lymphoma (SEAL) Analysis of Individual Patient Data (Maurer)

Abstract #1102; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 5:15 p.m., Ballroom 20A Outcomes for Elderly Patients with Follicular Lymphoma (FL) Using Individual Patient Data (IPD) from 5922 Patients in 18 Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): A FL Analysis of Surrogate Hypothesis (FLASH) Group Study (Flowers)

Abstract #4196; Poster; Monday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Hall GH Evaluation of Progression-free Survival (PFS) as a Surrogate Endpoint for Overall Survival (OS) in First-Line Therapy for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): Findings from the Surrogate Endpoint in Aggressive Lymphoma (SEAL) Analysis of Individual Patient Data from 7507 Patients (Shi)

MDS/AML/Beta-Thalassemia

Emerging Clinical Data from Investigational cc486, ag221 (enasidenib) and Luspatercept Studies:

Abstract #905; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 3:45 p.m., San Diego Ballroom AB (Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina) CC-486 (Oral Azacitidine) in Patients with Hematological Malignancies Who Had Received Prior Treatment with Injectable Hypomethylating Agents (HMAs): Results from Phase 1/2 CC-486 Studies (Garcia-Manero)

Abstract #343; Oral; Sunday, Dec. 4, 9:30 a.m., Grand Hall C (Manchester Grand Hyatt) Enasidenib (AG-221), a Potent Oral Inhibitor of Mutant Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2) Enzyme, Induces Hematologic Responses in Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) (Stein)

Abstract #851; Oral; Monday, Dec. 5, 3:45 p.m., Room 7 AB Luspatercept Increases Hemoglobin, Decreases Transfusion Burden and Improves Iron Overload in Adults with Beta-Thalassemia (Piga)

Abstract #3168; Poster; Sunday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m., Hall GH Luspatercept Increases Hemoglobin and Reduces Transfusion Burden in Patients with Low-Intermediate Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Long-Term results from Phase II PACE-MDS Study (Platzbecker)

The safety and efficacy of the agents and/or uses under investigation have not been established. There is no guarantee that the agents will receive health authority approval or become commercially available in any country for the uses being investigated.

A complete listing of abstracts can be found on the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) Web site at View Source

*All times Pacific Standard Time

About REVLIMID

REVLIMID (lenalidomide) in combination with dexamethasone (dex) is indicated for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma (MM)

REVLIMID is indicated for the treatment of patients with transfusion-dependent anemia due to low-or intermediate-1-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) associated with a deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality with or without additional cytogenetic abnormalities

REVLIMID is indicated for the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) whose disease has relapsed or progressed after two prior therapies, one of which included bortezomib

REVLIMID is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) outside of controlled clinical trials

Important Safety Information

WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY, HEMATOLOGIC TOXICITY, and VENOUS and ARTERIAL THROMBOEMBOLISM

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Do not use REVLIMID during pregnancy. Lenalidomide, a thalidomide analogue, caused limb abnormalities in a developmental monkey study. Thalidomide is a known human teratogen that causes severe life-threatening human birth defects. If lenalidomide is used during pregnancy, it may cause birth defects or embryo-fetal death. In females of reproductive potential, obtain 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting REVLIMID treatment. Females of reproductive potential must use 2 forms of contraception or continuously abstain from heterosexual sex during and for 4 weeks after REVLIMID treatment. To avoid embryo-fetal exposure to lenalidomide, REVLIMID is only available through a restricted distribution program, the REVLIMID REMS program (formerly known as the "RevAssist" program).

Information about the REVLIMID REMS program is available at www.celgeneriskmanagement.com or by calling the manufacturer’s toll-free number 1-888-423-5436.

Hematologic Toxicity (Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia)

REVLIMID can cause significant neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Eighty percent of patients with del 5q MDS had to have a dose delay/reduction during the major study. Thirty-four percent of patients had to have a second dose delay/reduction. Grade 3 or 4 hematologic toxicity was seen in 80% of patients enrolled in the study. Patients on therapy for del 5q MDS should have their complete blood counts monitored weekly for the first 8 weeks of therapy and at least monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or reduction. Patients may require use of blood product support and/or growth factors.

Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism

REVLIMID has demonstrated a significantly increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as risk of myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with MM who were treated with REVLIMID and dexamethasone therapy. Monitor for and advise patients about signs and symptoms of thromboembolism. Advise patients to seek immediate medical care if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or arm or leg swelling. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended and the choice of regimen should be based on an assessment of the patient’s underlying risks.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Pregnancy: REVLIMID can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female and is contraindicated in females who are pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus

Allergic Reactions: REVLIMID is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity (e.g., angioedema, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) to lenalidomide

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: See Boxed WARNINGS

Females of Reproductive Potential: See Boxed WARNINGS
Males: Lenalidomide is present in the semen of patients receiving the drug. Males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking REVLIMID and for up to 28 days after discontinuing REVLIMID, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking REVLIMID must not donate sperm
Blood Donation: Patients must not donate blood during treatment with REVLIMID and for 1 month following discontinuation of the drug because the blood might be given to a pregnant female patient whose fetus must not be exposed to REVLIMID
REVLIMID REMS Program: See Boxed WARNINGS: Prescribers and pharmacies must be certified with the REVLIMID REMS program by enrolling and complying with the REMS requirements; pharmacies must only dispense to patients who are authorized to receive REVLIMID. Patients must sign a Patient-Physician Agreement Form and comply with REMS requirements; female patients of reproductive potential who are not pregnant must comply with the pregnancy testing and contraception requirements and males must comply with contraception requirements

Hematologic Toxicity: REVLIMID can cause significant neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Advise patients to observe for bleeding or bruising, especially with use of concomitant medications that may increase risk of bleeding. MM: Patients taking REVLIMID/dex should have their complete blood counts (CBC) assessed every 7 days for the first 2 cycles, on days 1 and 15 of cycle 3, and every 28 days thereafter. MDS: Patients on therapy for del 5q MDS should have their complete blood counts monitored weekly for the first 8 weeks of therapy and at least monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or dose reduction. Please see the Black Box WARNINGS for further information. MCL: Patients taking REVLIMID for MCL should have their CBCs monitored weekly for the first cycle (28 days), every 2 weeks during cycles 2-4, and then monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or dose reduction

Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism: See Boxed WARNINGS: Venous thromboembolic events (DVT and PE) and arterial thromboses (MI and CVA) are increased in patients treated with REVLIMID. Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended and regimen is based on patients underlying risks. ESAs and estrogens may further increase the risk of thrombosis and their use should be based on a benefit-risk decision

Increased Mortality in Patients With CLL: In a clinical trial in the first line treatment of patients with CLL, single agent REVLIMID therapy increased the risk of death as compared to single agent chlorambucil. Serious adverse cardiovascular reactions, including atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and cardiac failure, occurred more frequently in the REVLIMID arm. REVLIMID is not indicated and not recommended for use in CLL outside of controlled clinical trials

Second Primary Malignancies (SPM): In clinical trials in patients with MM receiving REVLIMID, an increase of invasive SPM notably AML and MDS have been observed. Monitor patients for the development of SPMs. Take into account both the potential benefit of REVLIMID and risk of SPMs when considering treatment

Hepatotoxicity: Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has occurred in patients treated with REVLIMID/dex. Pre-existing viral liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may be risk factors. Monitor liver enzymes periodically. Stop REVLIMID upon elevation of liver enzymes. After return to baseline values, treatment at a lower dose may be considered

Allergic Reactions: Angioedema and serious dermatologic reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported. These events can be fatal. Patients with a prior history of Grade 4 rash associated with thalidomide treatment should not receive REVLIMID. REVLIMID interruption or discontinuation should be considered for Grade 2-3 skin rash. REVLIMID must be discontinued for angioedema, Grade 4 rash, exfoliative or bullous rash, or if SJS or TEN is suspected and should not be resumed following discontinuation for these reactions. REVLIMID capsules contain lactose; risk-benefit of treatment should be evaluated in patients with lactose intolerance

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS): Fatal instances of TLS have been reported during treatment with lenalidomide. The patients at risk of TLS are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. These patients should be monitored closely and appropriate precautions taken

Tumor Flare Reaction (TFR): TFR has occurred during investigational use of lenalidomide for CLL and lymphoma. Monitoring and evaluation of TFR is recommended in patients with MCL. Tumor flare may mimic the progression of disease (PD). In patients with Grade 3 or 4 TFR, it is recommended to withhold treatment with REVLIMID until TFR resolves to ≤ Grade 1. REVLIMID may be continued in patients with Grade 1 and 2 TFR without interruption or modification, at the physician’s discretion

Impaired Stem Cell Mobilization: A decrease in the number of CD34+ cells collected after treatment ( > 4 cycles) with REVLIMID has been reported. Consider early referral to transplant center to optimize timing of the stem cell collection

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Multiple Myeloma

In newly diagnosed: The most frequently reported Grade 3 or 4 reactions included neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, pneumonia, asthenia, fatigue, back pain, hypokalemia, rash, cataract, lymphopenia, dyspnea, DVT, hyperglycemia, and leukopenia. The highest frequency of infections occurred in Arm Rd Continuous (75%) compared to Arm MPT (56%). There were more grade 3 and 4 and serious adverse reactions of infection in Arm Rd Continuous than either Arm MPT or RD18
The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥20% (Arm Rd Continuous): diarrhea (46%), anemia (44%), neutropenia (35%), fatigue (33%), back pain (32%), asthenia (28%), insomnia (28%), rash, (26%), decreased appetite (23%), cough (23%), dyspnea (22%), pyrexia (21%), abdominal pain (21%), muscle spasms (20%), and thrombocytopenia (20%)
After at least one prior therapy the most common adverse reactions reported in ≥20% (REVLIMID/dex vs dex/placebo): fatigue (44% vs 42%), neutropenia (42% vs 6%), constipation (41% vs 21%), diarrhea (39% vs 27%), muscle cramp (33% vs 21%), anemia (31% vs 24%), pyrexia (28% vs 23%), peripheral edema (26% vs 21%), nausea (26% vs 21%), back pain (26% vs 19%), upper respiratory tract infection (25% vs 16%), dyspnea (24% vs 17%), dizziness (23% vs 17%), thrombocytopenia (22% vs 11%), rash (21% vs 9%), tremor (21% vs 7%), and weight decreased (20% vs 15%)
Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Grade 3 and 4 adverse events reported in ≥ 5% of patients with del 5q MDS were neutropenia (53%), thrombocytopenia (50%), pneumonia (7%), rash (7%), anemia (6%), leukopenia (5%), fatigue (5%), dyspnea (5%), and back pain (5%)
Adverse events reported in ≥15% of del 5q MDS patients (REVLIMID): thrombocytopenia (61.5%), neutropenia (58.8%), diarrhea (49%), pruritus (42%), rash (36%), fatigue (31%), constipation (24%), nausea (24%), nasopharyngitis (23%), arthralgia (22%), pyrexia (21%), back pain (21%), peripheral edema (20%), cough (20%), dizziness (20%), headache (20%), muscle cramp (18%), dyspnea (17%), pharyngitis (16%), epistaxis (15%), asthenia (15%), upper respiratory tract infection (15%)
Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Grade 3 and 4 adverse events reported in ≥5% of patients treated with REVLIMID in the MCL trial (N=134) included neutropenia (43%), thrombocytopenia (28%), anemia (11%), pneumonia (9%), leukopenia (7%), fatigue (7%), diarrhea (6%), dyspnea (6%), and febrile neutropenia (6%)
Adverse events reported in ≥15% of patients treated with REVLIMID in the MCL trial included neutropenia (49%), thrombocytopenia (36%), fatigue (34%), anemia (31%), diarrhea (31%), nausea (30%), cough (28%), pyrexia (23%), rash (22%), dyspnea (18%), pruritus (17%), peripheral edema (16%), constipation (16%), and leukopenia (15%)
DRUG INTERACTIONS

Periodic monitoring of digoxin plasma levels is recommended due to increased Cmax and AUC with concomitant REVLIMID therapy. Patients taking concomitant therapies such as erythropoietin stimulating agents or estrogen containing therapies may have an increased risk of thrombosis. It is not known whether there is an interaction between dex and warfarin. Close monitoring of PT and INR is recommended in MM patients taking concomitant warfarin

NURSING MOTHERS

Discontinue drug or nursing taking into consideration the importance of the drug to the mother

PEDIATRIC USE

Safety and effectiveness in patients below the age of 18 have not been established

RENAL IMPAIRMENT

REVLIMID is primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys; adjustments to the starting dose are recommended to provide appropriate drug exposure in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment and in patients on dialysis

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS.

About POMALYST/IMNOVID

Indication

POMALYST (pomalidomide) is a thalidomide analogue indicated, in combination with dexamethasone, for patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least two prior therapies including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor and have demonstrated disease progression on or within 60 days of completion of the last therapy.

Important Safety Information

WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY and VENOUS AND ARTERIAL THROMBOEMBOLISM
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

POMALYST is contraindicated in pregnancy. POMALYST is a thalidomide analogue. Thalidomide is a known human teratogen that causes severe birth defects or embryo-fetal death. In females of reproductive potential, obtain 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting POMALYST treatment.
Females of reproductive potential must use 2 forms of contraception or continuously abstain from heterosexual sex during and for 4 weeks after stopping POMALYST treatment.
POMALYST is only available through a restricted distribution program called POMALYST REMS.
Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), myocardial infarction, and stroke occur in patients with multiple myeloma treated with POMALYST. Prophylactic antithrombotic measures were employed in clinical trials. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended, and the choice of regimen should be based on assessment of the patient’s underlying risk factors.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Pregnancy: POMALYST can cause fetal harm and is contraindicated in females who are pregnant. If POMALYST is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to a fetus.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity & Females of Reproductive Potential: See Boxed WARNINGS
Males: Pomalidomide is present in the semen of patients receiving the drug. Males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking POMALYST and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing POMALYST, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Males must not donate sperm.
Blood Donation: Patients must not donate blood during treatment with POMALYST and for 1 month following discontinuation of POMALYST therapy because the blood might be given to a pregnant female patient whose fetus must not be exposed to POMALYST.
POMALYST REMS Program: See Boxed WARNINGS
Prescribers and pharmacies must be certified with the POMALYST REMS program by enrolling and complying with the REMS requirements; pharmacies must only dispense to patients who are authorized to receive POMALYST. Patients must sign a Patient-Physician Agreement Form and comply with REMS requirements; female patients of reproductive potential who are not pregnant must comply with the pregnancy testing and contraception requirements and males must comply with contraception requirements.
Further information about the POMALYST REMS program is available at www.CelgeneRiskManagement.com or by telephone at 1-888-423-5436.
Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism: See Boxed WARNINGS. Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk, and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended, and the choice of regimen should be based on assessment of the patient’s underlying risk factors.
Hematologic Toxicity: Neutropenia (46%) was the most frequently reported Grade 3/4 adverse reaction in patients taking POMALYST in clinical trials, followed by anemia and thrombocytopenia. Monitor complete blood counts weekly for the first 8 weeks and monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or modification.
Hepatotoxicity: Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has occurred in patients treated with POMALYST. Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin have also been observed in patients treated with POMALYST. Monitor liver function tests monthly. Stop POMALYST upon elevation of liver enzymes. After return to baseline values, treatment at a lower dose may be considered.
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Angioedema and severe dermatologic reactions have been reported. Discontinue POMALYST for angioedema, skin exfoliation, bullae, or any other severe dermatologic reactions, and do not resume therapy.
Dizziness and Confusional State: In patients taking POMALYST in clinical trials, 14% experienced dizziness (1% Grade 3 or 4) and 7% a confusional state (3% Grade 3 or 4). Instruct patients to avoid situations where dizziness or confusional state may be a problem and not to take other medications that may cause dizziness or confusional state without adequate medical advice.
Neuropathy: In patients taking POMALYST in clinical trials, 18% experienced neuropathy (2% Grade 3 in one trial) and 12% peripheral neuropathy.
Second Primary Malignancies: Cases of acute myelogenous leukemia have been reported in patients receiving POMALYST as an investigational therapy outside of multiple myeloma.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS): TLS may occur in patients treated with POMALYST. Patients at risk are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. These patients should be monitored closely and appropriate precautions taken.
ADVERSE REACTIONS

Nearly all patients treated with POMALYST + low-dose dex experienced at least one adverse reaction (99%). The most common adverse reactions included neutropenia (51.3%), fatigue and asthenia (46.7%), upper respiratory tract infection (31%), thrombocytopenia (29.7%), pyrexia (26.7%), dyspnea (25.3%), diarrhea (22%), constipation (21.7%), back pain (19.7%), cough (20%), pneumonia (19.3%), bone pain (18%), edema peripheral (17.3%), peripheral neuropathy (17.3%), muscle spasms (15.3%), and nausea (15%). Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions included neutropenia (48.3%), thrombocytopenia (22%), and pneumonia (15.7%).

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Avoid concomitant use of POMALYST with strong inhibitors of CYP1A2. Consider alternative treatments. If a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor must be used, reduce POMALYST dose by 50%.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Pregnancy: See Boxed WARNINGS. If pregnancy does occur during treatment, immediately discontinue the drug and refer patient to an obstetrician/gynecologist experienced in reproductive toxicity for further evaluation and counseling. There is a POMALYST pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in females exposed to POMALYST during pregnancy as well as female partners of male patients who are exposed to POMALYST. This registry is also used to understand the root cause for the pregnancy. Report any suspected fetal exposure to POMALYST to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to Celgene Corporation at 1-888-423-5436.
Lactation: There is no information regarding the presence of pomalidomide in human milk, the effects of POMALYST on the breastfed infant, or the effects of POMALYST on milk production. Pomalidomide was excreted in the milk of lactating rats. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse reactions in breastfed infants from POMALYST, advise a nursing woman to discontinue breastfeeding during treatment with POMALYST.
Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is required for POMALYST based on age. Patients > 65 years of age were more likely than patients ≤65 years of age to experience pneumonia.
Renal Impairment: Reduce POMALYST dose by 25% in patients with severe renal impairment requiring dialysis. Take dose of POMALYST following hemodialysis on hemodialysis days.
Hepatic Impairment: Reduce POMALYST dose by 25% in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment and 50% in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Smoking Tobacco: Advise patients that smoking may reduce the efficacy of POMALYST. Cigarette smoking reduces the AUC of pomalidomide by 32% by CYP1A2 induction.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS.