Soliris
Eculizumab · Injection, Solution, Concentrate · Intravenous
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE SOLIRIS is a complement inhibitor indicated for: the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis. ( 1.1 ) the treatment of patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) to inhibit complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy. ( 1.2 ) Limitation of Use SOLIRIS is not indicated for the treatment of patients with Shiga toxin E. coli related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS). the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adult and pediatric patients six years of age and older who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive. ( 1.3 ) the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adult patients who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive. ( 1.4 ) 1.1 Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) SOLIRIS is indicated for the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis. 1.2 Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) SOLIRIS is indicated for the treatment of patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) to inhibit complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy. Limitation of Use SOLIRIS is not indicated for the treatment of patients with Shiga toxin E. coli related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS). 1.3 Generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG) SOLIRIS is indicated for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adult and pediatric patients six years of age and older who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive. 1.4 Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) SOLIRIS is indicated for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adult patients who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive.
Dosage and administration
For intravenous infusion only; recommended dosage for: PNH: ( 2.2 ) aHUS, gMG, and NMOSD in adults: ( 2.3 ) aHUS and gMG in pediatric patients: ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Recommended Vaccination and Prophylaxis for Meningococcal Infection Vaccinate patients against meningococcal infection (serogroups A, C, W, Y and B) according to current ACIP recommendations at least 2 weeks prior to initiation of SOLIRIS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . If urgent SOLIRIS therapy is indicated in a patient who is not up to date with meningococcal vaccines according to ACIP recommendations, provide the patient with antibacterial drug prophylaxis and administer these vaccines as soon as possible. Healthcare providers who prescribe SOLIRIS must enroll in the ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 2.2 Recommended Dosage for Adults – PNH The recommended dosage of SOLIRIS for the treatment of PNH in patients 18 years of age and older is administered as an intravenous infusion [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) ] as follows: 600 mg weekly for the first 4 weeks, followed by 900 mg for the fifth dose 1 week later, then 900 mg every 2 weeks thereafter. Administer SOLIRIS at the recommended dosage regimen time points, or within two days of these time points [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . 2.3 Recommended Dosage for Adults – aHUS, gMG, and NMOSD The recommended dosage of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS, gMG, or NMOSD in patients 18 years of age and older is administered as an intravenous infusion [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) ] as follows: 900 mg weekly for the first 4 weeks, followed by 1,200 mg for the fifth dose 1 week later, then 1,200 mg every 2 weeks thereafter. 2.4 Recommended Dosage for Pediatric Patients – aHUS and gMG The recommended dosage of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age or gMG in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older is administered as an intravenous infusion based upon body weight, according to the following schedule (Table 1): Table 1: Dosing Recommendations in Pediatric Patients Less Than 18 Years of Age with aHUS and Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older with gMG Patient Body Weight Induction Maintenance 40 kg and over 900 mg weekly for the first 4 weeks 1,200 mg at week 5; then 1,200 mg every 2 weeks 30 kg to less than 40 kg 600 mg for the first 2 weeks 900 mg at week 3; then 900 mg every 2 weeks 20 kg to less than 30 kg 600 mg for the first 2 weeks 600 mg at week 3; then 600 mg every 2 weeks 10 kg to less than 20 kg 600 mg single dose at Week 1 300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 2 weeks 5 kg to less than 10 kg 300 mg single dose at Week 1 300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 3 weeks Administer SOLIRIS at the recommended dosage regimen time points, or within two days of these time points. 2.5 Dose Adjustment in Case of Plasmapheresis, Plasma Exchange, Fresh Frozen Plasma Infusion or IVIg For adult and pediatric patients with aHUS or gMG, and adult patients with NMOSD, supplemental dosing of SOLIRIS is required in the setting of concomitant plasmapheresis or plasma exchange, or fresh frozen plasma infusion (PE/PI) (Table 2). Table 2: Supplemental Dose of SOLIRIS after Plasmapheresis/PE/PI Type of Plasma Intervention Most Recent SOLIRIS Dose Supplemental SOLIRIS Dose with Each Plasma Intervention Timing of Supplemental SOLIRIS Dose Plasmapheresis or plasma exchange 300 mg 300 mg per each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange session Within 60 minutes after each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange ≥600 mg 600 mg per each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange session Fresh frozen plasma infusion ≥300 mg 300 mg per infusion of fresh frozen plasma 60 minutes prior to each infusion of fresh frozen plasma For patients with gMG, a supplemental dose of SOLIRIS is required in the setting of concomitant use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment as described in Table 3. Table 3: Supplemental Dose of SOLIRIS with concomitant IVIg IVIg Frequency Most Recent SOLIRIS Dose Supplemental Soliris Dose per IVIg Cycle Timing of Supplemental SOLIRIS Dose Acute rescue therapy No supplemental SOLIRIS dose needed Equal to or more frequent than every 4 weeks 900 mg or more 600 mg At the same time as scheduled SOLIRIS dose 600 mg or less 300 mg Less frequent than every 4 weeks 900 mg or more 600 mg At the next scheduled SOLIRIS dose after the last IVIg cycle 600 mg or less 300 mg 2.6 Preparation Dilute SOLIRIS to a final admixture concentration of 5 mg/mL using the following steps: Withdraw the required amount of SOLIRIS from the vial into a sterile syringe. Transfer the recommended dose to an infusion bag. Dilute SOLIRIS to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL by adding the appropriate amount (equal volume of diluent to drug volume) of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP; 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP; 5% Dextrose Injection, USP; or Ringer's Injection, USP to the infusion bag. The final admixed SOLIRIS 5 mg/mL infusion volume is 60 mL for 300 mg doses, 120 mL for 600 mg doses, 180 mL for 900 mg doses or 240 mL for 1,200 mg doses (Table 4). Table 4: Preparation and Reconstitution of SOLIRIS SOLIRIS Dose Diluent Volume Final Volume 300 mg 30 mL 60 mL 600 mg 60 mL 120 mL 900 mg 90 mL 180 mL 1,200 mg 120 mL 240 mL Gently invert the infusion bag containing the diluted SOLIRIS solution to ensure thorough mixing of the product and diluent. Discard any unused portion left in a vial, as the product contains no preservatives. Prior to administration, the admixture should be allowed to adjust to room temperature [18°C to 25°C, 64°F to 77°F]. The admixture must not be heated in a microwave or with any heat source other than ambient air temperature. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Dosage forms and strengths
Injection: 300 mg/30 mL (10 mg/mL) as a clear, colorless solution in a single-dose vial. Injection: 300 mg/30 mL (10 mg/mL) in a single-dose vial. ( 3 )
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS SOLIRIS is contraindicated for initiation in patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . SOLIRIS is contraindicated for initiation in patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Use caution when administering SOLIRIS to patients with any other systemic infection. ( 5.3 ) Infusion-Related Reactions: Monitor patients during infusion, interrupt for reactions, and institute appropriate supportive measures. ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Serious Meningococcal Infections SOLIRIS, a complement inhibitor, increases a patient's susceptibility to serious, life-threatening, or fatal infections caused by meningococcal bacteria (septicemia and/or meningitis) in any serogroup, including non-groupable strains. Life-threatening and fatal meningococcal infections have occurred in both vaccinated and unvaccinated patients treated with complement inhibitors. The initiation of SOLIRIS treatment is contraindicated in patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection. Complete or update meningococcal vaccination (for serogroups A, C, W, Y and B) at least 2 weeks prior to administration of the first dose of SOLIRIS, according to current ACIP recommendations for patients receiving a complement inhibitor. Revaccinate patients in accordance with ACIP recommendations, considering the duration of therapy with SOLIRIS. Note that ACIP recommends an administration schedule in patients receiving complement inhibitors that differs from the administration schedule in the vaccine prescribing information. If urgent SOLIRIS therapy is indicated in a patient who is not up to date with meningococcal vaccines according to ACIP recommendations, provide the patient with antibacterial drug prophylaxis and administer meningococcal vaccines as soon as possible. Various durations and regimens of antibacterial drug prophylaxis have been considered, but the optimal durations and drug regimens for prophylaxis and their efficacy have not been studied in unvaccinated or vaccinated patients receiving complement inhibitors, including SOLIRIS. The benefits and risks of treatment with SOLIRIS, as well as the benefits and risks of antibacterial drug prophylaxis in unvaccinated or vaccinated patients, must be considered against the known risks for serious infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis . Vaccination does not eliminate the risk of serious meningococcal infections, despite development of antibodies following vaccination. Closely monitor patients for early signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection and evaluate patients immediately if infection is suspected. Inform patients of these signs and symptoms and instruct patients to seek immediate medical care if these signs and symptoms occur. Promptly treat known infections. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early. Consider interruption of SOLIRIS in patients who are undergoing treatment for serious meningococcal infection depending on the risks of interrupting treatment in the disease being treated. SOLIRIS is available only through a restricted program under a REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 5.2 ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS SOLIRIS is available only through a restricted program under a REMS called ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS, because of the risk of serious meningococcal infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Notable requirements of the ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS include the following: Prescribers must enroll in the REMS. Prescribers must counsel patients about the risk of serious meningococcal infection. Prescribers must provide the patients with the REMS educational materials. Prescribers must assess patient vaccination status for meningococcal vaccines (against serogroups A, C, W, Y and B) and vaccinate if needed according to current ACIP recommendations two weeks prior to the first dose of SOLIRIS. Prescribers must provide a prescription for antibacterial drug prophylaxis if treatment must be started urgently and the patient is not up to date with meningococcal vaccines according to current ACIP recommendations at least two weeks prior to the first dose of SOLIRIS. Healthcare settings and pharmacies that dispense SOLIRIS must be certified in the REMS and must verify prescribers are certified. Patients must receive counseling from the prescriber about the need to receive meningococcal vaccines per ACIP recommendations, the need to take antibiotics as directed by the prescriber, and the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection. Patients must be instructed to carry the Patient Safety Card with them at all times during and for 3 months following treatment with SOLIRIS. Further information is available at www.UltSolREMS.com or 1-888-765-4747. 5.3 Other Infections Serious infections with Neisseria species (other than Neisseria meningitidis ), including disseminated gonococcal infections, have been reported. SOLIRIS blocks terminal complement activation; therefore patients may have increased susceptibility to infections, especially with encapsulated bacteria such as infections with Neisseria meningitidis but also Streptococcus pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenzae , and to a lesser extent, Neisseria gonorrhoeae . Additionally, Aspergillus infections have occurred in immunocompromised and neutropenic patients. Children treated with SOLIRIS may be at increased risk of developing serious infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Administer vaccinations for the prevention of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infections according to ACIP recommendations. Patients receiving SOLIRIS are at increased risk for infections due to these organisms, even if they develop antibodies following vaccination. 5.4 Monitoring Disease Manifestations after SOLIRIS Discontinuation Treatment Discontinuation for PNH Monitor patients after discontinuing SOLIRIS for at least 8 weeks to detect hemolysis. Treatment Discontinuation for aHUS After discontinuing SOLIRIS, monitor patients with aHUS for signs and symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) complications for at least 12 weeks.
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Serious Meningococcal Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Other Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Monitoring Disease Manifestations after SOLIRIS Discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Thrombosis Prevention and Management [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Infusion-Related Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] The most frequently reported adverse reactions in the PNH randomized trial (≥10% overall and greater than placebo) are: headache, nasopharyngitis, back pain, and nausea. ( 6.1 ) The most frequently reported adverse reactions in aHUS single arm prospective trials (≥20%) are: headache, diarrhea, hypertension, upper respiratory infection, abdominal pain, vomiting, nasopharyngitis, anemia, cough, peripheral edema, nausea, urinary tract infections, pyrexia. ( 6.1 ) The most frequently reported adverse reaction in the gMG placebo-controlled clinical trial (≥10%) in adult patients is musculoskeletal pain. ( 6.1 ) The most frequently reported adverse reactions in the NMOSD placebo- controlled trial (≥10%) are: upper respiratory infection, nasopharyngitis, diarrhea, back pain, dizziness, influenza, arthralgia, pharyngitis, and contusion. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-844-259-6783 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience 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. Meningococcal infections are the most important adverse reactions experienced by patients receiving SOLIRIS. In PNH clinical studies, two patients experienced meningococcal sepsis. Both patients had previously received a meningococcal vaccine. In clinical studies among patients without PNH, meningococcal meningitis occurred in one unvaccinated patient. Meningococcal sepsis occurred in one previously vaccinated patient enrolled in the retrospective aHUS study during the post-study follow-up period [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . PNH The data described below reflect exposure to SOLIRIS in 196 adult patients with PNH, age 18-85, of whom 55% were female. All had signs or symptoms of intravascular hemolysis. SOLIRIS was studied in a placebo-controlled clinical study (PNH Study 1, in which 43 patients received SOLIRIS and 44, placebo); a single arm clinical study (PNH Study 2); and a long term extension study (E05-001). 182 patients were exposed for greater than one year. All patients received the recommended SOLIRIS dose regimen. Table 5 summarizes the adverse reactions that occurred at a numerically higher rate in the SOLIRIS group than the placebo group and at a rate of 5% or more among patients treated with SOLIRIS. Table 5: Adverse Reactions Reported in 5% or More of SOLIRIS Treated Patients with PNH and Greater than Placebo in the Controlled Clinical Study Reaction SOLIRIS (N=43) N (%) Placebo (N=44) N (%) Headache 19 (44) 12 (27) Nasopharyngitis 10 (23) 8 (18) Back pain 8 (19) 4 (9) Nausea 7 (16) 5 (11) Fatigue 5 (12) 1 (2) Cough 5 (12) 4 (9) Herpes simplex infections 3 (7) 0 Sinusitis 3 (7) 0 Respiratory tract infection 3 (7) 1 (2) Constipation 3 (7) 2 (5) Myalgia 3 (7) 1 (2) Pain in extremity 3 (7) 1 (2) Influenza-like illness 2 (5) 1 (2) In the placebo-controlled clinical study, serious adverse reactions occurred among 4 (9%) patients receiving SOLIRIS and 9 (21%) patients receiving placebo. The serious reactions included infections and progression of PNH. No deaths occurred in the study and no patients receiving SOLIRIS experienced a thrombotic event; one thrombotic event occurred in a patient receiving placebo. Among 193 patients with PNH treated with SOLIRIS in the single arm, clinical study or the follow-up study, the adverse reactions were similar to those reported in the placebo-controlled clinical study. Serious adverse reactions occurred among 16% of the patients in these studies. The most common serious adverse reactions were: viral infection (2%), headache (2%), anemia (2%), and pyrexia (2%). aHUS The safety of SOLIRIS therapy in patients with aHUS was evaluated in four prospective, single-arm studies, three in adult and adolescent patients (Studies C08-002A/B, C08-003A/B, and C10-004), one in pediatric and adolescent patients (Study C10-003), and one retrospective study (Study C09-001r). The data described below were derived from 78 adult and adolescent patients with aHUS in Studies C08-002A/B, C08-003A/B and C10-004. All patients received the recommended dosage of SOLIRIS. Median exposure was 67 weeks (range: 2-145 weeks). Table 6 summarizes all adverse events reported in at least 10% of patients in Studies C08-002A/B, C08-003A/B and C10-004 combined. Table 6: Per Patient Incidence of Adverse Events in 10% or More Adult and Adolescent Patients Enrolled in Studies C08-002A/B, C08-003A/B and C10-004 Separately and in Total Number (%) of Patients C08-002A/B (N=17) C08-003A/B (N=20) C10-004 (N=41) Total (N=78) Vascular Disorders Hypertension includes the preferred terms hypertension, accelerated hypertension, and malignant hypertension.
Drug interactions
7.1 Plasmapheresis, Plasma Exchange, Fresh Frozen Plasma Infusion or IVIg Concomitant use of SOLIRIS with plasma exchange (PE), plasmapheresis (PP) , fresh frozen plasma infusion (PE/PI), or in patients with gMG on concomitant IVIg treatment can reduce serum eculizumab concentrations and requires a supplemental dose of SOLIRIS [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. 7.2 Neonatal Fc Receptor Blockers Concomitant use of SOLIRIS with neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockers may lower systemic exposures and reduce effectiveness of SOLIRIS. Closely monitor for reduced effectiveness of SOLIRIS.
Use in specific populations
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Limited data on outcomes of pregnancies that have occurred following SOLIRIS use in pregnant women have not identified a concern for specific adverse developmental outcomes ( see Data ). There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with untreated paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) in pregnancy ( see Clinical Considerations ). Animal studies using a mouse analogue of the SOLIRIS molecule (murine anti-C5 antibody) showed increased rates of developmental abnormalities and an increased rate of dead and moribund offspring at doses 2-8 times the human dose ( see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defect and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or fetal/neonatal risk PNH in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal outcomes, including worsening cytopenias, thrombotic events, infections, bleeding, miscarriages and increased maternal mortality, and adverse fetal outcomes, including fetal death and premature delivery. aHUS in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal outcomes, including pre-eclampsia and preterm delivery, and adverse fetal/neonatal outcomes, including intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), fetal death and low birth weight. Data Human Data A pooled analysis of prospectively (50.3%) and retrospectively (49.7%) collected data in more than 300 pregnant women with live births following exposure to SOLIRIS have not suggested safety concerns. However, these data cannot definitively exclude any drug-associated risk during pregnancy, because of the limited sample size. Animal Data Animal reproduction studies were conducted in mice using doses of a murine anti-C5 antibody that approximated 2-4 times (low dose) and 4-8 times (high dose) the recommended human SOLIRIS dose, based on a body weight comparison. When animal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from before mating until early gestation, no decrease in fertility or reproductive performance was observed. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred during organogenesis, two cases of retinal dysplasia and one case of umbilical hernia were observed among 230 offspring born to mothers exposed to the higher antibody dose; however, the exposure did not increase fetal loss or neonatal death. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from implantation through weaning, a higher number of male offspring became moribund or died (1/25 controls, 2/25 low dose group, 5/25 high dose group). Surviving offspring had normal development and reproductive function. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Although limited published data does not report detectable levels of eculizumab in human milk, maternal IgG is known to be present in human milk. Available information is insufficient to inform the effect of eculizumab on the breastfed infant. There are no data on the effects of eculizumab on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for SOLIRIS and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from eculizumab or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use PNH and NMOSD Safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of PNH, or NMOSD in pediatric patients have not been established. aHUS The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS have been established in pediatric patients. Use of SOLIRIS in pediatric patients for this indication is supported by evidence from four adequate and well-controlled clinical studies assessing the safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS. The studies included a total of 47 pediatric patients (ages 2 months to 17 years). The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS appear similar in pediatric and adult patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . gMG The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of gMG have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. Use of SOLIRIS in pediatric patients for this indication is supported by evidence from an adequate and well-controlled trial in adults with additional pharmacokinetic and safety data in pediatric patients with gMG who are 12 years of age and older, and pharmacokinetic and safety data in other pediatric populations aged 6 to less than 12 years [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of gMG in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years have not been established. Vaccinations Administer vaccinations for the prevention of infection due to Neisseria meningitidis , Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) according to ACIP guidelines [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.3) ] . 8.5 Geriatric Use Fifty-one patients 65 years of age or older (15 with PNH, 4 with aHUS, 26 with gMG, and 6 with NMOSD) were treated with SOLIRIS in clinical trials in the approved indications. Although there were no apparent age-related differences observed in these studies, the number of patients aged 65 and over is not sufficient to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Limited data on outcomes of pregnancies that have occurred following SOLIRIS use in pregnant women have not identified a concern for specific adverse developmental outcomes ( see Data ). There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with untreated paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) in pregnancy ( see Clinical Considerations ). Animal studies using a mouse analogue of the SOLIRIS molecule (murine anti-C5 antibody) showed increased rates of developmental abnormalities and an increased rate of dead and moribund offspring at doses 2-8 times the human dose ( see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defect and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or fetal/neonatal risk PNH in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal outcomes, including worsening cytopenias, thrombotic events, infections, bleeding, miscarriages and increased maternal mortality, and adverse fetal outcomes, including fetal death and premature delivery. aHUS in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal outcomes, including pre-eclampsia and preterm delivery, and adverse fetal/neonatal outcomes, including intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), fetal death and low birth weight. Data Human Data A pooled analysis of prospectively (50.3%) and retrospectively (49.7%) collected data in more than 300 pregnant women with live births following exposure to SOLIRIS have not suggested safety concerns. However, these data cannot definitively exclude any drug-associated risk during pregnancy, because of the limited sample size. Animal Data Animal reproduction studies were conducted in mice using doses of a murine anti-C5 antibody that approximated 2-4 times (low dose) and 4-8 times (high dose) the recommended human SOLIRIS dose, based on a body weight comparison. When animal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from before mating until early gestation, no decrease in fertility or reproductive performance was observed. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred during organogenesis, two cases of retinal dysplasia and one case of umbilical hernia were observed among 230 offspring born to mothers exposed to the higher antibody dose; however, the exposure did not increase fetal loss or neonatal death. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from implantation through weaning, a higher number of male offspring became moribund or died (1/25 controls, 2/25 low dose group, 5/25 high dose group). Surviving offspring had normal development and reproductive function.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use PNH and NMOSD Safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of PNH, or NMOSD in pediatric patients have not been established. aHUS The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS have been established in pediatric patients. Use of SOLIRIS in pediatric patients for this indication is supported by evidence from four adequate and well-controlled clinical studies assessing the safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS. The studies included a total of 47 pediatric patients (ages 2 months to 17 years). The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of aHUS appear similar in pediatric and adult patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . gMG The safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of gMG have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. Use of SOLIRIS in pediatric patients for this indication is supported by evidence from an adequate and well-controlled trial in adults with additional pharmacokinetic and safety data in pediatric patients with gMG who are 12 years of age and older, and pharmacokinetic and safety data in other pediatric populations aged 6 to less than 12 years [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Safety and effectiveness of SOLIRIS for the treatment of gMG in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years have not been established. Vaccinations Administer vaccinations for the prevention of infection due to Neisseria meningitidis , Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) according to ACIP guidelines [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.3) ] .
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Fifty-one patients 65 years of age or older (15 with PNH, 4 with aHUS, 26 with gMG, and 6 with NMOSD) were treated with SOLIRIS in clinical trials in the approved indications. Although there were no apparent age-related differences observed in these studies, the number of patients aged 65 and over is not sufficient to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.
Description
Eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, is a recombinant humanized monoclonal IgG2/4 κ antibody produced by murine myeloma cell culture and purified by standard bioprocess technology. Eculizumab contains human constant regions from human IgG2 sequences and human IgG4 sequences and murine complementarity-determining regions grafted onto the human framework light- and heavy-chain variable regions. Eculizumab is composed of two 448 amino acid heavy chains and two 214 amino acid light chains and has a molecular weight of approximately 148 kDa. SOLIRIS (eculizumab) injection is a sterile, clear, colorless, preservative-free 10 mg/mL solution for intravenous infusion and is supplied in 30-mL single-dose vials. The product is formulated at pH 7 and each 30 mL vial contains 300 mg of eculizumab, polysorbate 80 (6.6 mg) (vegetable origin), sodium chloride (263.1 mg), sodium phosphate dibasic (53.4 mg), sodium phosphate monobasic (13.8 mg), and Water for Injection, USP.
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Eculizumab, the active ingredient in SOLIRIS, is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the complement protein C5 with high affinity, thereby inhibiting its cleavage to C5a and C5b and preventing the generation of the terminal complement complex C5b-9. SOLIRIS inhibits terminal complement-mediated intravascular hemolysis in PNH patients and complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) in patients with aHUS. The precise mechanism by which eculizumab exerts its therapeutic effect in gMG patients is unknown, but is presumed to involve reduction of terminal complement complex C5b-9 deposition at the neuromuscular junction. The precise mechanism by which eculizumab exerts its therapeutic effect in NMOSD is unknown, but is presumed to involve inhibition of aquaporin-4-antibody induced terminal complement C5b-9 deposition.
How supplied
(eculizumab) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear, colorless solution supplied as one 300 mg/30 mL (10 mg/mL) single-dose vial per carton (NDC 25682-001-01). Store SOLIRIS vials refrigerated at 2°-8° C (36°-46° F) in the original carton to protect from light until time of use. SOLIRIS vials may be stored in the original carton at controlled room temperature (not more than 25° C/77° F) for only a single period up to 3 days. Do not use beyond the expiration date stamped on the carton. Refer to Dosage and Administration (2) for information on the stability and storage of diluted solutions of SOLIRIS. DO NOT FREEZE. DO NOT SHAKE.
Storage
Store SOLIRIS vials refrigerated at 2°-8° C (36°-46° F) in the original carton to protect from light until time of use. SOLIRIS vials may be stored in the original carton at controlled room temperature (not more than 25° C/77° F) for only a single period up to 3 days. Do not use beyond the expiration date stamped on the carton. Refer to Dosage and Administration (2) for information on the stability and storage of diluted solutions of SOLIRIS. DO NOT FREEZE. DO NOT SHAKE.
Patient information
Advise the patients and/or caregivers to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Serious Meningococcal Infections Advise patients of the risk of serious meningococcal infection. Inform patients of the need to complete or update their meningococcal vaccinations at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of SOLIRIS or receive antibacterial drug prophylaxis if SOLIRIS treatment must be initiated immediately and they have not been previously vaccinated. Inform patients of the requirement to be revaccinated according to current ACIP recommendations for meningococcal infection while on SOLIRIS therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Inform patients that vaccination may not prevent serious meningococcal infection and to seek immediate medical attention if the following signs or symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] : fever fever and a rash fever with high heart rate headache with nausea or vomiting headache and a fever headache with a stiff neck or stiff back confusion muscle aches with flu-like symptoms eyes sensitive to light Inform patients that they will be given a Patient Safety Card for SOLIRIS that they should carry with them at all times during and for 3 months following treatment with SOLIRIS. This card describes symptoms which, if experienced, should prompt the patient to immediately seek medical evaluation. ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS SOLIRIS is available only through a restricted program called ULTOMIRIS and SOLIRIS REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Inform the patient of the following notable requirements: Patients must receive counseling about the risk of serious meningococcal infections. Patients must receive written educational materials about this risk. Patients must be instructed to carry the Patient Safety Card with them at all times during and for 3 months following treatment with SOLIRIS. Patients must be instructed to complete or update meningococcal vaccines for serogroups A, C, W, Y and B per ACIP recommendations as directed by the prescriber prior to treatment with SOLIRIS. Patients must receive antibiotics as directed by the prescriber if they are not up to date with meningococcal vaccines and have to start SOLIRIS right away. Other Infections Counsel patients about gonorrhea prevention and advise regular testing for patients at-risk. Inform patients that there may be an increased risk of other types of infections, particularly those due to encapsulated bacteria. Aspergillus infections have occurred in immunocompromised and neutropenic patients. Inform parents or caregivers of children receiving SOLIRIS that their child should be vaccinated against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) according to current medical guidelines. Infusion-Related Reactions Advise patients that administration of SOLIRIS may result in infusion-related reactions. Discontinuation Inform patients with PNH that they may develop serious hemolysis due to PNH when SOLIRIS is discontinued and that they will be monitored by their healthcare professional for at least 8 weeks following SOLIRIS discontinuation. Inform patients with aHUS that there is a potential for TMA complications due to aHUS when SOLIRIS is discontinued and that they will be monitored by their healthcare professional for at least 12 weeks following SOLIRIS discontinuation. Inform patients who discontinue SOLIRIS to keep the Patient Safety Card with them for three months after the last SOLIRIS dose, because the increased risk of meningococcal infection persists for several weeks following discontinuation of SOLIRIS.
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (revised Jul 8, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Eculizumab in 1 product
Soliris NDC products (1)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25682-001 | Eculizumab 300 mg/30mL Injection, Solution, Concentrate | Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc. | BLA |
Soliris recalls
- D-1512-2014 Aug 13, 2014 · Class I · Terminated
Presence of Particulate Matter: Product failed the appearance for the presence of visible particles under labeled storage condition. - D-1049-2014 Feb 5, 2014 · Class I · Terminated
Presence of Particulate Matter: Failed the appearance test for the presence of visible particles.
Frequently asked questions
What is Soliris used for?
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE SOLIRIS is a complement inhibitor indicated for: the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis. ( 1.1 ) the treatment of patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) to inhibit complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy. ( 1.2 ) Limitation of Use SOLIRIS is not indicated for the treatment of patients with Shiga…
What are the side effects of Soliris?
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Serious Meningococcal Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Other Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Monitoring Disease Manifestations after SOLIRIS Discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Thrombosis Prevention and Management [see Warnings and… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Soliris?
Soliris is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc..
Has Soliris been recalled?
The FDA enforcement database lists 2 recalls for Soliris, most recently D-1512-2014 (class i): Presence of Particulate Matter: Product failed the appearance for the presence of visible particles under labeled storage condition.