Firdapse
amifampridine phosphate · Tablet · Oral
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE FIRDAPSE ® is indicated for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. FIRDAPSE is a potassium channel blocker indicated for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. ( 1 )
Dosage and administration
Administer orally in divided doses (3 to 5 times daily). ( 2.1 ) The recommended starting dosage for adults (any weight) and pediatric patients weighing 45 kg or more is 15 mg to 30 mg daily, in divided doses. ( 2.1 ) Dosage can be increased by 5 mg daily every 3 to 4 days. ( 2.1 ) The maximum single dose is 20 mg. ( 2.1 ) Dosage is not to exceed a maximum of 100 mg daily. ( 2.1 ) The recommended starting dosage for pediatric patients weighing less than 45 kg is 5 mg to 15 mg daily, in divided doses. ( 2.1 ) Dosage can be increased by 2.5 mg daily every 3 to 4 days. ( 2.1 ) The maximum single dose is 10 mg. ( 2.1 ) Dosage is not to exceed a maximum of 50 mg daily. ( 2.1 ) The recommended starting dosage for adult and pediatric patients with renal impairment, hepatic impairment, and in known N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) poor metabolizers is the lowest recommended initial daily dosage ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4 ) For patients with a dosage adjustment of less than 5 mg increments, or who have difficulty swallowing, or require feeding tube, a l mg/mL suspension can be prepared. ( 2.5 ) 2.1 Dosage Information The recommended oral dosage of FIRDAPSE for adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older is included in Table 1 . For pediatric patients, the recommended dosing regimen is dependent on body weight. Dosage should be increased every 3 to 4 days based on clinical response and tolerability. Titration increments should not exceed those shown in Table 1 . Table 1: Recommended Oral Dosage for the Treatment of LEMS in Adults and Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older * See Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) for a method to achieve these doses Age and Body Weight Initial Daily Dosage * Titration Regimen Maximum Single Dose Maximum Total Daily Maintenance Dosage Adults (any weight) Pediatric patients weighing 45 kg or more 15 mg to 30 mg daily, in 3 to 5 divided doses Increase total daily dosage by 5 mg every 3 or 4 days 20 mg 100 mg Given in divided doses Pediatric patients weighing less than 45 kg 5 mg to 15 mg daily, in 3 to 5 divided doses Increase total daily dosage by 2.5 mg every 3 or 4 days 10 mg 50 mg Given in divided doses Missed Dose If a dose is missed, patients should not take double or extra doses. 2.2 Patients with Renal Impairment The recommended starting dosage of FIRDAPSE in patients with renal impairment [creatinine clearance (CLcr) 15 to 90 mL/min] is the lowest recommended initial daily dosage (i.e., 15 mg daily for pediatric patients weighing 45 kg or more and for adults, and 5 mg daily for pediatric patients weighing less than 45 kg) taken orally in divided doses. No dosage recommendation for FIRDAPSE can be made for patients with end-stage renal disease [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. 2.3 Patients with Hepatic Impairment The recommended starting dosage of FIRDAPSE in patients with any degree of hepatic impairment is the lowest recommended initial daily dosage (i.e., 15 mg daily for pediatric patients weighing 45 kg or more and for adults, and 5 mg daily for pediatric patients weighting less than 45 kg) taken orally in divided doses [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.7 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. 2.4 Known N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) Poor Metabolizers The recommended starting dosage of FIRDAPSE in known N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) poor metabolizers is the lowest recommended initial daily dosage (i.e., 15 mg daily for pediatric patients weighing 45 kg or more and for adults, and 5 mg daily for pediatric patients weighing less than 45 kg) taken orally in divided doses [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.8 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.5 )]. 2.5 Administration Instructions FIRDAPSE can be taken without regard to food. Preparation of a 1mg/mL Suspension (see the Instructions for Use for full instructions on how to prepare the 1mg/mL suspension) When patients require a dosage in less than 5 mg increments, have difficulty swallowing tablets, or require feeding tubes, a 1 mg/mL suspension can be prepared (e.g., by placing the required number of tablets in a 50 to 100 mL container, adding 10 mL of sterile water for each tablet, waiting for 5 minutes, and shaking well for 30 seconds). Crushing the tablets prior to making the suspension is not necessary. After preparation of the suspension, an oral syringe can be used to draw up and administer the correct dose by mouth or by feeding tube. Storage of 1mg/mL Prepared Suspension Refrigerate the suspension between doses and shake well before drawing up each dose. The suspension can be stored under refrigeration [between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F)] for up to 24 hours. Discard any unused portion of the suspension after 24 hours.
Dosage forms and strengths
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS FIRDAPSE tablets contain 10 mg amifampridine and are white to off-white, round, and functionally scored. Each tablet is debossed on the non-scored side with “CATALYST” and on the scored side with “211” above the score and “10” below the score. Tablets: 10 mg, functionally scored. ( 3 )
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS FIRDAPSE is contraindicated in patients with: A history of seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Hypersensitivity to amifampridine phosphate or another aminopyridine [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] FIRDAPSE is contraindicated in patients with: A history of seizures ( 4 ) Hypersensitivity to amifampridine or another aminopyridine ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Seizures: FIRDAPSE can cause seizures. Consider discontinuation or dose-reduction of FIRDAPSE in patients who have a seizure while on treatment. ( 5.1 ) Hypersensitivity reactions: If a hypersensitivity reaction such as anaphylaxis occurs, FIRDAPSE should be discontinued and appropriate therapy initiated. ( 5.2 ) 5.1 Seizures FIRDAPSE can cause seizures. Seizures have been observed in patients without a history of seizures taking FIRDAPSE at the recommended doses, at various times after initiation of treatment, at an incidence of approximately 2%. Many of the patients were taking medications or had comorbid medical conditions that may have lowered the seizure threshold [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )]. Seizures may be dose-dependent. Consider discontinuation or dose-reduction of FIRDAPSE in patients who have a seizure while on treatment. FIRDAPSE is contraindicated in patients with a history of seizures. 5.2 Hypersensitivity In clinical trials, hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis associated with FIRDAPSE administration have not been reported. Anaphylaxis has been reported in patients taking another aminopyridine; therefore, it may occur with FIRDAPSE. If anaphylaxis occurs, administration of FIRDAPSE should be discontinued and appropriate therapy initiated.
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] The most common (> 10%) adverse reactions are: paresthesia, upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, elevated liver enzymes, back pain, hypertension, and muscle spasms. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Catalyst Pharmaceuticals at 1-844-347-3277 (1-844-FIRDAPSE) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Adults Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In controlled and uncontrolled clinical trials (Study 1 and 2) in patients with LEMS [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] , 63 patients were treated with FIRDAPSE, including 40 patients treated for more than 6 months, and 39 patients treated for more than 12 months. In an expanded access program, 139 patients with LEMS were treated with FIRDAPSE, including 102 patients treated for more than 6 months, 77 patients treated for more than 12 months, and 53 patients treated for more than 18 months. In the expanded access program, patients were treated with FIRDAPSE with up to 100 mg daily in divided doses. Study 1 was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized discontinuation study in adults with LEMS. Following an initial open- label run-in phase (up to 90 days), patients were randomized to either continue FIRDAPSE treatment or transition to placebo, for a 14-day double-blind phase. Following final assessments, patients were allowed to resume FIRDAPSE treatment for up to 2 years (open-label long-term safety phase of the study). During the open-label run-in phase of Study 1, 53 patients received FIRDAPSE for an average of 81 days at a mean daily dosage of 50.5 mg/day. The mean patient age was 52.1 years and 66% were female. There were 42 patients who had no prior exposure to FIRDAPSE at the initiation of this study. Table 2 shows adverse reactions with an incidence of 5% or greater occurring in the 42 LEMS patients newly initiated on treatment with FIRDAPSE during the run-in phase of the study. Table 2. Adverse Reactions in ≥5% of LEMS Patients Newly Treated with FIRDAPSE in Study 1 *Includes paresthesia, oral paresthesia, oral hypoesthesia **Includes elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) Adverse Reaction FIRDAPSE N=42 % Paresthesia* 62 Upper respiratory tract infection 33 Abdominal pain 14 Nausea 14 Diarrhea 14 Headache 14 Elevated liver enzymes** 14 Back pain 14 Hypertension 12 Muscle spasms 12 Dizziness 10 Asthenia 10 Muscular weakness 10 Pain in extremity 10 Cataract 10 Constipation 7 Bronchitis 7 Fall 7 Lymphadenopathy 7 Other Adverse Reactions In the overall population treated in Study 1 (n=53), including the double-blind phase and the 2-year open-label long-term safety phase, additional adverse reactions occurring in at least 5% of the patients included: dyspnea, urinary tract infection, gastroesophageal reflux, insomnia, peripheral edema, pyrexia, viral infection, blood creatine phosphokinase increase, depression, erythema, hypercholesterolemia, and influenza. These patients received a mean daily dosage of 66 mg of FIRDAPSE. Pediatrics Safety of FIRDAPSE was evaluated in pediatric patients in an expanded access program, where 21 pediatric patients received FIRDAPSE for at least 1 year. Adverse reactions reported in pediatric patients were similar to those seen in adult patients, with the exception of clinically significant weight loss in two pediatric patients at doses of 60 mg per day and higher.
Drug interactions
Drugs that lower seizure threshold: Concomitant use may lead to an increased risk of seizures. ( 7.1 ) Drugs with cholinergic effects (e.g., direct or indirect cholinesterase inhibitors): Concomitant use may increase the cholinergic effects of FIRDAPSE and of those drugs and increase the risk of adverse reactions. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Drugs that Lower Seizure Threshold The concomitant use of FIRDAPSE and drugs that lower seizure threshold may lead to an increased risk of seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. The decision to administer FIRDAPSE concomitantly with drugs that lower the seizure threshold should be carefully considered in light of the severity of the associated risks. 7.2 Drugs with Cholinergic Effects The concomitant use of FIRDAPSE and drugs with cholinergic effects (e.g., direct or indirect cholinesterase inhibitors) may increase the cholinergic effects of FIRDAPSE and of those drugs and increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Use in specific populations
Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm. ( 8.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to FIRDAPSE during pregnancy. Physicians are encouraged to enroll pregnant patients, or pregnant women may register themselves in the registry by calling 855- 212-5856 (toll-free), using the Fax number 877-867-1874 (toll-free), by contacting the Pregnancy Coordinating Center at firdapsepregnancyregistry@ubc.com, or by visiting the study website www.firdapsepregnancystudy.com. Risk Summary There are no data on the developmental risk associated with the use of FIRDAPSE in pregnant women. In animal studies, administration of amifampridine phosphate to rats during pregnancy and lactation resulted in developmental toxicity (increase in stillbirths and pup deaths, reduced pup weight, and delayed sexual development) at doses associated with maternal plasma drug levels lower than therapeutic drug levels (see Animal Data ). In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Animal Data Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 7.5, 22.5, or 75 mg/kg/day) to female rats prior to and during mating and continuing throughout organogenesis produced no adverse effects on embryofetal development. The highest dose tested is approximately 4 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of amifampridine (100 mg/day) on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis. Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 9, 30, or 57 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rabbits throughout organogenesis produced no adverse effects on embryofetal development. The highest dose tested is approximately 6 times the MRHD of amifampridine on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis. Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 7.5, 22.5, or 75 mg/kg/day) to female rats throughout pregnancy and lactation resulted in an increase in stillbirths and pup deaths, reduced pup weight, and delayed sexual development in female pups at the mid and high doses tested. The no-effect dose (7.5 mg/kg/day amifampridine phosphate) for adverse developmental effects is associated with a plasma amifampridine exposure (AUC) less than that in humans at the MRHD of amifampridine. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of FIRDAPSE in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for FIRDAPSE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from FIRDAPSE or from the underlying maternal condition. In lactating rat, amifampridine was excreted in milk and reached levels similar to those in maternal plasma. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of FIRDAPSE for the treatment of LEMS have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. Use of FIRDAPSE for this indication is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of FIRDAPSE in adults with LEMS, pharmacokinetic data in adult patients, pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation to identify the dosing regimen in pediatric patients, and safety data from pediatric patients aged 6 years and older [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of FIRDAPSE did not include a sufficient number of subjects aged 65 and over (19 of 63 patients in Studies 1 and 2) to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 )] . 8.6 Renal Impairment Renal clearance is an elimination pathway for amifampridine and the inactive metabolite, 3-N-acetyl-amifampridine, and exposure of amifampridine is higher in subjects with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Therefore, in patients with renal impairment, FIRDAPSE should be initiated at the lowest recommended initial daily dosage, and patients should be closely monitored for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )]. Consider dosage modification or discontinuation of FIRDAPSE for patients with renal impairment as needed based on clinical effect and tolerability. The safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of amifampridine have not been studied in patients with end-stage renal disease (CLcr <15 mL/min or patients requiring dialysis). No dosage recommendation for FIRDAPSE can be made for patients with end-stage renal disease. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment In patients with any degree of hepatic impairment, FIRDAPSE should be initiated at the lowest recommended initial daily dosage, and patients should be monitored for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )]. Consider dosage modification or discontinuation of FIRDAPSE for patients with hepatic impairment as needed based on clinical effect and tolerability. 8.8 NAT2 Poor Metabolizers Exposure of FIRDAPSE is increased in patients who are N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) poor metabolizers [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.5 )] . Therefore, initiate FIRDAPSE in patients who are known NAT2 poor metabolizers at the lowest recommended initial daily dosage and monitor for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )].
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to FIRDAPSE during pregnancy. Physicians are encouraged to enroll pregnant patients, or pregnant women may register themselves in the registry by calling 855- 212-5856 (toll-free), using the Fax number 877-867-1874 (toll-free), by contacting the Pregnancy Coordinating Center at firdapsepregnancyregistry@ubc.com, or by visiting the study website www.firdapsepregnancystudy.com. Risk Summary There are no data on the developmental risk associated with the use of FIRDAPSE in pregnant women. In animal studies, administration of amifampridine phosphate to rats during pregnancy and lactation resulted in developmental toxicity (increase in stillbirths and pup deaths, reduced pup weight, and delayed sexual development) at doses associated with maternal plasma drug levels lower than therapeutic drug levels (see Animal Data ). In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Animal Data Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 7.5, 22.5, or 75 mg/kg/day) to female rats prior to and during mating and continuing throughout organogenesis produced no adverse effects on embryofetal development. The highest dose tested is approximately 4 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of amifampridine (100 mg/day) on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis. Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 9, 30, or 57 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rabbits throughout organogenesis produced no adverse effects on embryofetal development. The highest dose tested is approximately 6 times the MRHD of amifampridine on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis. Oral administration of amifampridine phosphate (0, 7.5, 22.5, or 75 mg/kg/day) to female rats throughout pregnancy and lactation resulted in an increase in stillbirths and pup deaths, reduced pup weight, and delayed sexual development in female pups at the mid and high doses tested. The no-effect dose (7.5 mg/kg/day amifampridine phosphate) for adverse developmental effects is associated with a plasma amifampridine exposure (AUC) less than that in humans at the MRHD of amifampridine.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of FIRDAPSE for the treatment of LEMS have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. Use of FIRDAPSE for this indication is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of FIRDAPSE in adults with LEMS, pharmacokinetic data in adult patients, pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation to identify the dosing regimen in pediatric patients, and safety data from pediatric patients aged 6 years and older [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years have not been established.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of FIRDAPSE did not include a sufficient number of subjects aged 65 and over (19 of 63 patients in Studies 1 and 2) to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 )] .
Overdosage
Overdose with FIRDAPSE was not reported during clinical studies. In a case report, a 65-year-old patient with LEMS inadvertently received a total daily amifampridine dose of 360 mg/day (approximately 4 times the maximum recommended total daily dose) and was hospitalized for general weakness, paresthesia, nausea, vomiting, and palpitations. The patient developed convulsions and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, and four days after admission, experienced cardiac arrest. The patient was resuscitated and ultimately recovered following withdrawal of amifampridine. Patients with suspected overdose with FIRDAPSE should be monitored for signs or symptoms of exaggerated FIRDAPSE adverse reactions or effects, and appropriate symptomatic treatment instituted immediately.
Description
The active ingredient of FIRDAPSE is amifampridine phosphate, which is a voltage-gated potassium channel blocker. Amifampridine phosphate is described chemically as 3,4-diaminopyridine phosphate with a molecular weight of 207.1 and a molecular formula of C 5 H 7 N 3
• H 3 PO 4 . The structural formula is: Amifampridine phosphate is a white, crystalline powder that is freely soluble in water, and slightly soluble in solvents ethanol, methanol and acetic acid. A 1% aqueous solution of amifampridine phosphate has a pH of 4.4 at ambient conditions. Each FIRDAPSE tablet contains 10 mg amifampridine (equivalent to 18.98 mg amifampridine phosphate). The tablet formulation includes the following inactive ingredients: calcium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, and microcrystalline cellulose. FIRDAPSE tablets are intended for oral administration only. Structural Formula
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism by which amifampridine exerts its therapeutic effect in LEMS patients has not been fully elucidated. Amifampridine is a broad-spectrum potassium channel blocker.
How supplied
16.1 How Supplied FIRDAPSE 10 mg tablets are white to off white-round, and functionally scored. Each tablet is debossed on the non-scored side with “CATALYST” and on the scored side with “211” above the score and “10” below the score. Tablets can be divided in half at the score. FIRDAPSE is supplied as follows: Child Resistant Blister Pack Blister pack containing 10 tablets NDC 69616-211-04 Carton containing 12 blister packs (120 tablets total) NDC 69616-211-06 Bottles 60 tablets NDC 69616-211-08 240 tablets NDC 69616-211-03 16.2 Storage and Handling Store FIRDAPSE tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with excursions permitted from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP controlled room temperature]. See Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) for storage instructions for FIRDAPSE prepared suspension. 16.1 How Supplied FIRDAPSE 10 mg tablets are white to off white-round, and functionally scored. Each tablet is debossed on the non-scored side with “CATALYST” and on the scored side with “211” above the score and “10” below the score. Tablets can be divided in half at the score. FIRDAPSE is supplied as follows: Child Resistant Blister Pack Blister pack containing 10 tablets NDC 69616-211-04 Carton containing 12 blister packs (120 tablets total) NDC 69616-211-06 Bottles 60 tablets NDC 69616-211-08 240 tablets NDC 69616-211-03
Storage
16.2 Storage and Handling Store FIRDAPSE tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with excursions permitted from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP controlled room temperature]. See Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) for storage instructions for FIRDAPSE prepared suspension.
Patient information
Advise the patient and/or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide and Instructions for Use ). Risk of Seizures Inform patients that FIRDAPSE can cause seizures, and to notify their healthcare provider if they experience a seizure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Hypersensitivity Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider if they have signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity, and to seek emergency help if symptoms of anaphylaxis occur [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. FIRDAPSE Dosing Instruct patients to take FIRDAPSE exactly as prescribed. Patients should carefully follow the dose escalation schedule provided by their healthcare provider to safely achieve the therapeutic dosage [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] . Inform patients that the tablets may be divided in half at the score, if needed. Instruct patients not to take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. If they require a dosage in less than 5 mg increments, have difficulty swallowing tablets, or require feeding tubes, refer patients and/or caregivers to the Instructions for Use on how to prepare a 1 mg/mL suspension [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) ]. If the patient requires treatment with the 1 mg/mL FIRDAPSE suspension, advise patients and/or caregivers that supplies required to prepare the suspension may be obtained at their local pharmacy. Drug Interactions Instruct patients to notify their healthcare provider prior to starting any new medication, including over-the-counter drugs [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )]. Pregnancy Instruct patients that if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking FIRDAPSE they should inform their healthcare provider. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to FIRDAPSE during pregnancy and encourage them to enroll if they become pregnant while taking FIRDAPSE [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] . Storage Advise patients to store FIRDAPSE at 68ºF to 77ºF (20ºC to 25ºC). Instruct patients and/or caregivers who prepare the 1 mg/mL suspension of FIRDAPSE that it should be prepared daily and refrigerated between doses. The suspension can be stored under refrigeration for up to 24 hours. Instruct the patient and/or caregiver to discard any unused portion of the suspension after 24 hours. Distributed by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Coral Gables, FL 33134 FIRDAPSE is a trademark of SERB S.A. Catalyst and the Catalyst logo are trademarks of Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. © 2024 Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. – All rights reserved.
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (revised Apr 16, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Amifampridine Phosphate in 1 product
Firdapse NDC products (1)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 69616-211 | Amifampridine Phosphate 10 mg/1 Tablet | Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Firdapse used for?
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE FIRDAPSE ® is indicated for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. FIRDAPSE is a potassium channel blocker indicated for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. ( 1 )
What are the side effects of Firdapse?
The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] The most common (> 10%) adverse reactions are: paresthesia, upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, elevated liver enzymes, back pain, hypertension, and muscle spasms. ( 6 )… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Firdapse?
Firdapse is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc..