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    Sapropterin

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    Apr.01.2024

    Sapropterin

    Indications/Dosage

    Labeled

    • phenylketonuria

    General dosing information:

    • Not all patients respond to treatment with sapropterin. In 2 clinical trials, 56—75% of pediatric PKU patients responded to treatment with 20 mg/kg/day. In 1 clinical trial, 20% of adult and pediatric PKU patients responded to treatment with 10 mg/kg/day. Response can only be determined by a therapeutic trial of sapropterin.
    • All patients treated with sapropterin should continue to follow a Phe-restricted diet. In order to make an accurate assessment of responsiveness, patients should not modify their existing dietary Phe intake during the sapropterin evaluation period. If the patient is a responder and the dose of sapropterin has been established, continue active management of dietary Phe intake using medical foods and natural sources of proteins to ensure blood Phe control and adequate nutritional balance.[33635]

    Off-Label

      † Off-label indication

      For the treatment of hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) due to tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4)-responsive phenylketonuria (PKU) in conjunction with a phenylalanine (Phe)-restricted diet

      NOTE: Sapropterin is designated by the FDA as an orphan drug for this indication.

      Oral dosage

      Adults, Adolescents, and Children 7 years and older

      Initially, 10 to 20 mg/kg/dose PO once daily. Measure blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations at baseline, after 1 week of treatment, and periodically for 1 month. If an initial dose of 10 mg/kg is used and blood Phe concentrations do not decrease from baseline after 1 month of therapy, the dose may be increased to 20 mg/kg PO once daily. Not all patients will respond to therapy; discontinue sapropterin if blood Phe concentrations do not decrease after 1 month of treatment at 20 mg/kg/day. Once responsiveness is established, adjust the dose within the range of 5 to 20 mg/kg PO once daily to maintain target blood Phe concentrations.[33635]

      Infants and Children 1 month to 6 years

      Initially, 10 mg/kg PO once daily. Check blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentration at baseline, after 1 week, and periodically for 1 month. In clinical trials, children younger than 7 years treated with 20 mg/kg/day sapropterin were at increased risk for low concentrations of blood Phe compared with patients 7 years and older. Blood Phe concentrations that are too low for prolonged periods of time may be associated with catabolism and protein breakdown. Titrate dosages carefully and with appropriate blood Phe concentration monitoring. Not all patients will respond to therapy; discontinue sapropterin if blood Phe concentrations do not decrease after 1 month of treatment at 20 mg/kg/day. Once responsiveness is established, adjust the dose within the range of 5 to 20 mg/kg PO once daily to maintain target blood Phe concentrations.[33635]

      Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

      Treatment should be directed by physicians knowledgeable in the management of phenylketonuria (PKU). Prolonged elevations in blood phenylalanine (Phe) levels in patients with PKU can result in severe neurologic damage, including severe mental retardation, microcephaly, delayed speech, seizures, and behavioral abnormalities. Conversely, prolonged levels of blood Phe that are too low have been associated with catabolism and protein breakdown.

       

      Monitoring recommendations include:

      • Measure blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations at baseline, after 1 week of treatment initiation, and periodically thereafter to ensure maintenance of blood Phe concentrations within the desired range. Frequent blood monitoring is recommended in pediatric patients.

      • Active management of dietary Phe intake while taking sapropterin is required to ensure adequate Phe control and nutritional balance.[33635]

      Maximum Dosage Limits

      • Adults

        20 mg/kg/day.

      • Geriatric

        Safety and efficacy have not been established.

      • Adolescents

        20 mg/kg/day.

      • Children

        20 mg/kg/day.

      • Infants

        20 mg/kg/day.

      • Neonates

        Safety and efficacy have not been established.

      Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing

      Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in hepatic impairment are not available. Patients with hepatic impairment have not been evaluated in clinical trials. Monitor liver function tests because hepatic damage has been associated with impaired Phe metabolism. Monitor Phe response closely.[33635]

      Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing

      Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in renal impairment are not available. Closely monitor patients with renal impairment, as renally impaired patients were not evaluated in clinical trials.[33635]

      † Off-label indication
      Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

      References

      33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

      How Supplied

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      JAVYGTOR 100mg Tablet (43598-0096) (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      KUVAN 100mg Tablet (68135-0300) (BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet (31722-0045) (Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet package photo

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet (43598-0749) (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet (49884-0720) (Endo USA, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Oral tablet

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet (72603-0191) (NorthStar Rx LLC) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Tablet package photo

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      JAVYGTOR 100mg Powder for Solution (43598-0097) (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      KUVAN 100mg Powder for Solution (68135-0301) (BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution (31722-0047) (Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution package photo

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution (43598-0477) (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution (49884-0948) (Endo USA, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution (72603-0193) (NorthStar Rx LLC) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 100mg Powder for Solution package photo

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      JAVYGTOR 500mg Powder for Solution (43598-0162) (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      KUVAN 500mg Powder for Solution (68135-0482) (BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 500mg Powder for Solution (31722-0048) (Camber Pharmaceuticals Inc) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 500mg Powder for Solution package photo

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 500mg Powder for Solution (49884-0873) (Endo USA, Inc.) null

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Powder for oral solution

      Sapropterin Dihydrochloride 500mg Powder for Solution (72603-0194) (NorthStar Rx LLC) nullSapropterin Dihydrochloride 500mg Powder for Solution package photo

      Description/Classification

      Description

      Sapropterin is indicated in conjunction with a phenylalanine-restricted diet to reduce blood phenylalanine concentrations in patients with hyperphenylalaninemia due to tetrahydrobiopterin- (BH4-) responsive phenylketonuria (PKU). Sapropterin is a synthetic form, 6R-BH4, of tetrahydrobiopterin and was the first FDA-approved drug to treat PKU. Phenylketonuria is a disease characterized by an increase in blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations. Increased blood Phe concentrations are caused by a genetic defect in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). PAH converts phenylalanine to tyrosine in the liver. Tetrahydrobiopterin acts as a cofactor to PAH in that reaction. It has been noted that PAH remains active in some patients with PKU. A trial of sapropterin is necessary to indicate patients that will respond to treatment. Even in patients who respond, the use of sapropterin does not eliminate the need for ongoing dietary management or for blood Phe concentration monitoring. Elevated blood Phe concentrations can cause severe neurological damage. Conversely, prolonged blood Phe concentrations that are too low may lead to catabolism and protein breakdown. A patient and physician support program is available; more information about this program is available at 1-877-695-8826.

      Classifications

      • Alimentary Tract and Metabolism
        • Metabolic Disorder Agents
          • Metabolic Agents, PKU Metabolism
      Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

      References

      Administration Information

      General Administration Information

      For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.

      Route-Specific Administration

      Oral Administration

      • Administer sapropterin with food at the same time each day. Administer a missed dose as soon as possible, but do not administer 2 doses on the same day.[33635]

      Oral Solid Formulations

      Oral tablets:

      • Tablets may be swallowed whole, dissolved in liquid, or crushed.
      • If dissolving in liquid: Dissolve tablets in 120—240 ml of water or apple juice. Administer within 15 minutes of tablet dissolution. Crushing or stirring of the tablets may be needed to facilitate dissolution. Full dissolution may not occur; patients may swallow any small tablet fragments that do not dissolve. If any tablet fragments remain in the cup, rinse the cup and administer to ensure receipt of the full dose.
      • Crushed tablets may be mixed in a small amount of soft foods such as apple sauce or pudding.[33635]

      Oral Liquid Formulations

      Powder for oral solution:

      • For patients weighing > 10 kg, dissolve dose in 120—240 ml of water or apple juice, and administer to the patient within 30 minutes of dissolution. Mix thoroughly to dissolve. The powder should dissolve rapidly and completely.  
      • For patients weighing <= 10 kg, the volume of liquid for dissolving powder depends on the dose and patient weight. Once dissolved, administer an appropriate volume of solution to provide the prescribed dose via an oral dosing syringe.
        • For doses of 10 mg/kg/day:
          • For doses of 10—50 mg, dissolve 1 packet in 10 ml of water or apple juice.
          • For doses of 60—100 mg, dissolve 1 packet in 5 ml of water or apple juice.
        • For doses of 20 mg/kg/day:
          • For doses of 20—100 mg, dissolve 1 packet in 5 ml of water or apple juice.
          • For doses of 120—200 mg, dissolve 2 packets in 5 ml of water or apple juice.
      • Alternatively, the powder can be stirred in a small amount of soft foods such as apple sauce or pudding.[33635]

      Clinical Pharmaceutics Information

      From Trissel's 2‚Ñ¢ Clinical Pharmaceutics Database
        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

        Adverse Reactions

        Mild

        • abdominal pain
        • agitation
        • arthralgia
        • cough
        • diarrhea
        • dizziness
        • dyspepsia
        • headache
        • hyperactivity
        • irritability
        • nasal congestion
        • nausea
        • pharyngitis
        • polyuria
        • rash
        • rhinitis
        • rhinorrhea
        • vomiting

        Severe

        • anaphylactoid reactions
        • GI bleeding
        • myocardial infarction
        • seizures

        Moderate

        • bleeding
        • esophagitis
        • gastritis
        • peripheral edema

        In clinical studies, sapropterin was administered to 579 patients with phenylketonuria in doses ranging from 5 to 20 mg/kg/day for lengths of treatment ranging from 1 to 164 weeks in patients ranging from 4 to 50 years of age. Among the most common adverse events reported in this trial and similar placebo-controlled trials were headache (15% vs. 14%), rhinorrhea (11% vs. 0%), pharyngolaryngeal pain (10% vs. 2%), cough (7% vs. 5%), and nasal congestion (4% vs. 0%). Rhinitis was infrequently reported, with 2 patients (7.4%) reporting this side effect in a study of 27 pediatric patients 0 to 4 years (n = 27). Post-marketing, oropharyngeal pain and pharyngitis were also reported.[33635]

        In clinical evaluation of sapropterin, gastrointestinal related adverse events reported relative to placebo include diarrhea (8% vs. 5%) and vomiting (8% vs. 7%). Postmarketing, esophagitis, oropharyngeal pain, pharyngitis, esophageal pain, gastritis, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting have been reported. If left untreated, esophageal stricture, esophageal ulcer, gastric ulcer, and bleeding have occurred. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of upper GI mucosal inflammation.[33635]

        Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactoid reactions and rash (unspecified) have occurred during sapropterin administration. Signs of anaphylaxis include wheezing, dyspnea, coughing, hypotension, flushing, nausea, and rash. Discontinue sapropterin immediately and initiate appropriate medical treatment if anaphylaxis is suspected. Continue dietary Phe restrictions in patients who experience anaphylaxis. Post-marketing, most reported hypersensitivity reactions occurred within several days of initiating treatment.[33635]

        In the post-marketing safety surveillance program for phenylketonuria (PKU), 2 patients experienced hyperactivity with administration of sapropterin. One case occurred in a patient who received an accidental overdose of the drug. Monitor patients for hyperactivity.[33635] In other safety evaluation among 800 healthy volunteers and patients with disorders other than PKU (some with underlaying neurological or cardiovascular disorders), sapropterin was administered as different formulations at doses ranging from 1—100 mg/kg/day for lengths of exposure from 1 day to 2 years. Serious and severe adverse nervous system reactions (regardless of causality) during sapropterin administration included seizures, exacerbation of convulsions, dizziness, headache, irritability, and overstimulation. Common adverse reactions reported were headache, agitation, and dizziness.[33635]

        In other safety evaluation among 800 healthy volunteers and patients with disorders other than phenylketonuria (some with underlaying neurological or cardiovascular disorders), sapropterin was administered as different formulations at doses ranging from 1 to 100 mg/kg/day for lengths of exposure from 1 day to 2 years. Serious and severe adverse reactions (regardless of causality) during sapropterin administration included post-procedural bleeding, GI bleeding, myocardial infarction, and respiratory failure. Common adverse reactions were peripheral edema, arthralgia, polyuria, nausea, pharyngitis, abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, and upper respiratory tract infection.[33635]

        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

        Contraindications/Precautions

        Absolute contraindications are italicized.

        • anorexia nervosa
        • breast-feeding
        • bulimia nervosa
        • children
        • fever
        • GI disease
        • hepatic disease
        • infants
        • infection
        • neonates
        • pregnancy
        • renal impairment

        Hypersensitivity reactions, including skin rash and anaphylaxis, associated with sapropterin have been reported. If a serious allergic or anaphylactic reactions occurs, sapropterin should be immediately and permanently discontinued and appropriate therapy should be administered. Dietary Phe restrictions should be continued in patients who experience anaphylaxis.[33635]

        Fever and infection may cause blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations to increase.[33635] Patients with a fever or an infection may need an adjustment in their sapropterin dose or dietary management to keep blood Phe concentrations within the desired range.

        Blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations should be closely monitored in patients with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. Adequate dietary intake of Phe is required to prevent blood Phe concentrations from being too low. Prolonged blood Phe concentrations that are too low may result in catabolism and protein breakdown. Sapropterin should be used with caution in these patients.

        During clinical trials, severe gastritis has been associated with sapropterin use. Monitor all patients, especially those with GI disease, for signs and symptoms of gastritis.[33635]

        Patients with renal impairment have not been evaluated in clinical trials. Renally impaired patients should be closely monitored when receiving sapropterin.[33635]

        Sapropterin has not been evaluated in patients with hepatic disease. In clinical trials, patients with elevations in alanine transaminase > 5 times the upper-limit of normal were excluded. Patients with hepatic disease should be closely monitored when receiving sapropterin, as hepatic damage has been associated with impaired phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism.

        In clinical trials, infants and children less than 7 years who received sapropterin doses of 20 mg/kg/day were at increased risk for developing low blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations compared to patients >= 7 years of age. Prolonged periods of low Phe concentrations have been associated with catabolism and protein breakdown, which could be particularly detrimental to infants and young children. Initiate sapropterin therapy at the lower end of the initial dosage range (i.e., 10 mg/kg/day) in children < 7 years, and monitor blood phenylalanine concentrations carefully. Sapropterin is not FDA-approved for use in neonates.[33635]

        There are insufficient data to assess the presence of sapropterin in human milk and no data on the effects on milk production. In postmarketing pregnancy registries, a total of 16 women from both registries were identified as breast-feeding for a mean of 3.5 months. No lactation-related safety concerns were reported in infants of mothers nursing during maternal treatment with sapropterin. Sapropterin is present in the milk of lactating rats following intravenous administration, but not following oral administration. The developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for the drug and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from the drug or from the underlying maternal condition.[33635]

        There is a pregnancy exposure registry that has been established that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women who are exposed to sapropterin (Kuvan) during pregnancy. For more information regarding the registry program call 1-800-983-4587. Available pregnancy registry data have not reported an association with sapropterin and major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes when the drug was used during pregnancy. An embryo-fetal development study with sapropterin dihydrochloride in rats using oral doses up to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) given during the period of organogenesis showed no effects. In a rabbit study using oral administration of sapropterin dihydrochloride during the period of organogenesis, a rare defect, holoprosencephaly, was noted at 10 times the MRHD. Uncontrolled blood phenylalanine concentrations before and during pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and fetal adverse effects. To reduce the risk of hyperphenylalaninemia-induced fetal adverse effects, blood phenylalanine concentrations should be maintained between 120 and 360 micromol/L during pregnancy and during the 3 months before conception. Available data from the Maternal Phenylketonuria Collaborative Study on 468 pregnancies and 331 live births in PKU-affected women demonstrated that uncontrolled Phe levels above 600 micromol/L are associated with a very high incidence of neurological, cardiac, facial dysmorphism, and growth anomalies. Control of blood phenylalanine during pregnancy is essential to reduce the incidence of Phe-induced teratogenic effects. Pregnancy Registry Data from 62 live births reported 3 abnormalities at birth (one case each of microcephaly, cleft palate, and tongue tie). These outcomes were associated with Phe levels greater than 360 micromol/L during pregnancy.[33635]

        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

        Mechanism of Action

        Mechanism of Action: Sapropterin is a biologically active synthetic form of the naturally occurring enzyme cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). Endogenous BH4 is a cofactor in multiple reactions including serving as a catalyst to phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) in the hydroxylation of phenylalanine (Phe) to tyrosine. Patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) have genetic mutations that result in deficient production or activity of PAH, which causes an increase in blood Phe concentrations. Over 500 mutations have been identified with considerable variability in the amount of residual PAH activity. Mutation severity is graded on the degree of PAH impairment. Severity of mutation does not accurately predict for responsiveness to BH4, only a trial of BH4 or sapropterin can determine responsiveness. Patients with PKU do not have an inherent deficiency in BH4 production or regeneration; however, increasing available BH4 has been shown to decrease blood Phe concentrations. The precise mechanism for this is unknown. One possible mechanism is that mutant PAH may require additional BH4 cofactor. Increasing available BH4 allows additional binding to PAH. Another possible mechanism is that BH4 exhibits a protective effect on mutant PAH. BH4 may increase the half-life of mutant PAH by preventing misfolding, which is a common PAH mutation.

        BH4 is also a cofactor in the hydroxylation of tyrosine to L-DOPA and of tryptophan to serotonin. Adverse reactions from BH4 supplementation may be a result of these pathways (see Adverse Reactions). Increased BH4 concentrations may lead to an increase in L-DOPA and serotonin.

        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        Pharmacokinetics

        Sapropterin is administered orally. Sapropterin is a synthetic form of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and is expected to be metabolized and recycled by the same endogenous enzymes (dihydrofolate reductase and dihydropteridine reductase). The elimination half-life of sapropterin in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) is approximately 6.7 hours (range 3.9 to 17 hours). Population pharmacokinetic analysis of sapropterin in patients 1 month to 49 years of age showed that body weight is the only covariate substantially affecting clearance or volume of distribution.[33635]

        Mean CL/F (L/hour/kg) +/- SD (Median) by age:

        0 to less than 1 year: 81.5 +/- 92.4 (53.6)

        1 to less than 6 years: 50.7 +/- 20.1 (48.4)

        6 to 11 years: 51.7 +/- 21.9 (47.4)

        12 to 17 years: 39.2 +/- 9.3 (38.3)

        18 years or more: 37.9 +/- 20.2 (31.8)

         

        Affected Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes and drug transporters: BCRP

        In healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of sapropterin 20 mg/kg had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of digoxin (P-gp substrate) administered concomitantly. Based on in vitro studies, sapropterin does not inhibit CYP 1A2, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, or 3A4/5, nor induce CYP 1A2, 2B6, or 3A4/5. In vitro sapropterin did not inhibit OAT1, OAT3, OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2-K transporters. The potential to inhibit OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 has not been adequately studied. In vitro, sapropterin inhibits breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), but the potential for a clinically significant increase in systemic exposure of BCRP substrates by sapropterin appears to be low.[33635]

        Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics

        Oral Route

        To increase absorption, sapropterin should be administered with food. Administration after a high-fat/high-calorie meal caused mean increases of 84% in Cmax and 87% in AUC; however, extensive variability was noted across administration modes and meal conditions.

         

        In a study of 88 patients with PKU not on phenylalanine (Phe)-restricted diets previously determined to have tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4)-responsive disease, a mean decrease in blood Phe concentration from baseline of 236 micromol/L was seen at 6 weeks with sapropterin 10 mg/kg/day compared to a 3 micromol/L increase over the same time period with placebo. Responders in this trial showed significantly decreased blood Phe concentrations at the initial assessment after 1 week, and this benefit persisted throughout the 6 week trial.[33785] In patients who respond to sapropterin, blood Phe concentrations generally decrease within 24 hours of a single dose of sapropterin. Maximum effect may take up to 4 weeks. A trial of 80 patients with a known response to sapropterin was conducted in which patients were titrated in two-week intervals through three separate dose levels. Blood Phe concentrations measured after each two-week course reflected a more pronounced response with increased dosage. Decreases in blood Phe concentrations from baseline at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day were 100, 204, and 263 micromol/L, respectively.

        Special Populations

        Hepatic Impairment

        Patients with liver impairment have not been evaluated in clinical trials. Monitor liver function tests because hepatic damage has been associated with impaired Phe metabolism. It is not clear if liver function affects the pharmacokinetics of sapropterin; use caution and monitor Phe closely.[33635]

        Renal Impairment

        Patients with renal impairment have not been evaluated in clinical trials.[33635]

        Pediatrics

        Children and infants exhibit faster sapropterin clearance than adolescents or adults. Infants (< 1 year) have a mean clearance over twice as fast as that of adults (81.5 L/hr/kg vs. 37.9 L/hr/kg).[33635]

        Geriatric

        The pharmacokinetics of sapropterin in patients > 49 years of age have not been studied.[33635]

        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.33785 - Levy HL, Milanowski A, Chakrapani A, et al. Efficacy of sapropterin dihydrochloride (tetrahydrobiopterin, 6R-BH4) for reduction of phenylalanine concentration in patients with phenylketonuria: a phase III randomized placebo-controlled study. Lancet 2007;370:504-10.

        Pregnancy/Breast-feeding

        breast-feeding

        There are insufficient data to assess the presence of sapropterin in human milk and no data on the effects on milk production. In postmarketing pregnancy registries, a total of 16 women from both registries were identified as breast-feeding for a mean of 3.5 months. No lactation-related safety concerns were reported in infants of mothers nursing during maternal treatment with sapropterin. Sapropterin is present in the milk of lactating rats following intravenous administration, but not following oral administration. The developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for the drug and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from the drug or from the underlying maternal condition.[33635]

        pregnancy

        There is a pregnancy exposure registry that has been established that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women who are exposed to sapropterin (Kuvan) during pregnancy. For more information regarding the registry program call 1-800-983-4587. Available pregnancy registry data have not reported an association with sapropterin and major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes when the drug was used during pregnancy. An embryo-fetal development study with sapropterin dihydrochloride in rats using oral doses up to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) given during the period of organogenesis showed no effects. In a rabbit study using oral administration of sapropterin dihydrochloride during the period of organogenesis, a rare defect, holoprosencephaly, was noted at 10 times the MRHD. Uncontrolled blood phenylalanine concentrations before and during pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and fetal adverse effects. To reduce the risk of hyperphenylalaninemia-induced fetal adverse effects, blood phenylalanine concentrations should be maintained between 120 and 360 micromol/L during pregnancy and during the 3 months before conception. Available data from the Maternal Phenylketonuria Collaborative Study on 468 pregnancies and 331 live births in PKU-affected women demonstrated that uncontrolled Phe levels above 600 micromol/L are associated with a very high incidence of neurological, cardiac, facial dysmorphism, and growth anomalies. Control of blood phenylalanine during pregnancy is essential to reduce the incidence of Phe-induced teratogenic effects. Pregnancy Registry Data from 62 live births reported 3 abnormalities at birth (one case each of microcephaly, cleft palate, and tongue tie). These outcomes were associated with Phe levels greater than 360 micromol/L during pregnancy.[33635]

        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

        Interactions

        Level 2 (Major)

        • Carbidopa; Levodopa
        • Carbidopa; Levodopa; Entacapone
        • Levodopa

        Level 3 (Moderate)

        • Avanafil
        • Finasteride; Tadalafil
        • Folate analogs
        • Macitentan; Tadalafil
        • Methotrexate
        • Pemetrexed
        • Phenobarbital
        • Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine
        • Phosphodiesterase inhibitors
        • Pralatrexate
        • Pyrimethamine
        • Sildenafil
        • Sulfamethoxazole; Trimethoprim, SMX-TMP, Cotrimoxazole
        • Tadalafil
        • Trimethoprim
        • Valproic Acid, Divalproex Sodium
        • Vardenafil
        Avanafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] Carbidopa; Levodopa: (Major) Coadministration of sapropterin and levodopa has been associated with seizures. Post-marketing safety surveillance showed 3 patients (all with underlying neurologic disorder) develop convulsions, exacerbation of convulsions, over-stimulation, or irritability while receiving concomitant levodopa and sapropterin. [33635] Carbidopa; Levodopa; Entacapone: (Major) Coadministration of sapropterin and levodopa has been associated with seizures. Post-marketing safety surveillance showed 3 patients (all with underlying neurologic disorder) develop convulsions, exacerbation of convulsions, over-stimulation, or irritability while receiving concomitant levodopa and sapropterin. [33635] Finasteride; Tadalafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] Folate analogs: (Moderate) Significant increases in serum phenylalanine concentrations have been noted after methotrexate infusions of 58 g/m2 to 46 patients with an unknown PKU status. Increased concentrations occurred at the end of the infusion in 95% of methotrexate cycles, but large inter-individual variations in the concentrations existed. Individual predispositions may exist, as maximal phenylalanine concentrations were of the same magnitude in a given patient. Phenylalanine concentrations returned to baseline concentrations 24 hours after the end of the methotrexate infusion. Methotrexate has been shown to decrease endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) concentrations by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteridine reductase; a similar reaction could be expected in patients receiving sapropterin. Dihydropteridine reductase recycles quinonoid dihydropterin (q-BH2) back to the active cofactor BH4. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia more difficult. Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. [10641] [33635] Levodopa: (Major) Coadministration of sapropterin and levodopa has been associated with seizures. Post-marketing safety surveillance showed 3 patients (all with underlying neurologic disorder) develop convulsions, exacerbation of convulsions, over-stimulation, or irritability while receiving concomitant levodopa and sapropterin. [33635] Macitentan; Tadalafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] Methotrexate: (Moderate) Significant increases in serum phenylalanine concentrations have been noted after methotrexate infusions of 58 g/m2 to 46 patients with an unknown PKU status. Increased concentrations occurred at the end of the infusion in 95% of methotrexate cycles, but large inter-individual variations in the concentrations existed. Individual predispositions may exist, as maximal phenylalanine concentrations were of the same magnitude in a given patient. Phenylalanine concentrations returned to baseline concentrations 24 hours after the end of the methotrexate infusion. Methotrexate has been shown to decrease endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) concentrations by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteridine reductase; a similar reaction could be expected in patients receiving sapropterin. Dihydropteridine reductase recycles quinonoid dihydropterin (q-BH2) back to the active cofactor BH4. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia more difficult. Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. [10641] [33635] PEMEtrexed: (Moderate) Significant increases in serum phenylalanine concentrations have been noted after methotrexate infusions of 58 g/m2 to 46 patients with an unknown PKU status. Increased concentrations occurred at the end of the infusion in 95% of methotrexate cycles, but large inter-individual variations in the concentrations existed. Individual predispositions may exist, as maximal phenylalanine concentrations were of the same magnitude in a given patient. Phenylalanine concentrations returned to baseline concentrations 24 hours after the end of the methotrexate infusion. Methotrexate has been shown to decrease endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) concentrations by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteridine reductase; a similar reaction could be expected in patients receiving sapropterin. Dihydropteridine reductase recycles quinonoid dihydropterin (q-BH2) back to the active cofactor BH4. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia more difficult. Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. [10641] [33635] PHENobarbital: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as phenobarbital, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. More frequent monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. An increased dosage of sapropterin may be necessary to achieve a biochemical response. Phenobarbital may decrease the bioavailability of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. [33635] PHENobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as phenobarbital, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. More frequent monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. An increased dosage of sapropterin may be necessary to achieve a biochemical response. Phenobarbital may decrease the bioavailability of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. [33635] Phosphodiesterase inhibitors: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] PRALAtrexate: (Moderate) Significant increases in serum phenylalanine concentrations have been noted after methotrexate infusions of 58 g/m2 to 46 patients with an unknown PKU status. Increased concentrations occurred at the end of the infusion in 95% of methotrexate cycles, but large inter-individual variations in the concentrations existed. Individual predispositions may exist, as maximal phenylalanine concentrations were of the same magnitude in a given patient. Phenylalanine concentrations returned to baseline concentrations 24 hours after the end of the methotrexate infusion. Methotrexate has been shown to decrease endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) concentrations by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteridine reductase; a similar reaction could be expected in patients receiving sapropterin. Dihydropteridine reductase recycles quinonoid dihydropterin (q-BH2) back to the active cofactor BH4. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia more difficult. Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. [10641] [33635] Pyrimethamine: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as pyrimethamine, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. For example, methotrexate has been shown to decrease endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) concentrations by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteridine reductase; a similar reaction could be expected in patients receiving pyrimethamine. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. Folic acid supplementation has been shown to decrease the toxicity of pyrimethamine. Careful monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. [33635] Sildenafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] Sulfamethoxazole; Trimethoprim, SMX-TMP, Cotrimoxazole: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as trimethoprim, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. More frequent monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. An increased dosage of sapropterin may be necessary to achieve a biochemical response. Trimethoprim may decrease the bioavailability of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. [33635] Tadalafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635] Trimethoprim: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as trimethoprim, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. More frequent monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. An increased dosage of sapropterin may be necessary to achieve a biochemical response. Trimethoprim may decrease the bioavailability of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. [33635] Valproic Acid, Divalproex Sodium: (Moderate) Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as valproic acid, should be used with caution in patients taking sapropterin. More frequent monitoring of blood phenylalanine concentrations is warranted in patients receiving these agents concurrently. An increased dosage of sapropterin may be necessary to achieve a biochemical response. Valproic acid may decrease the bioavailability of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Reduction of BH4 could make management of hyperphenylalaninemia with sapropterin more difficult. [33635] Vardenafil: (Moderate) Sapropterin acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of nitric oxide and may cause vasorelaxation. Caution should be exercised when administering sapropterin in combination with drugs that affect nitric oxide-mediated vasorelaxation such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. When given together these agents may produce an additive reduction in blood pressure. The combination of sapropterin and a phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor did not significantly reduce blood pressure when administered concomitantly in animal studies. The additive effect of these agents has not been studied in humans. [33635]
        Revision Date: 04/01/2024, 01:42:00 AM

        References

        10641 - Dhondt JL, Farriaux JP, Millot F, et al. High-dose methotrexate and hyperphenylalaninemia. Arch Fr Pediatr 1991;48:249-51.33635 - Kuvan (sapropterin) package insert. Novato, CA: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc; 2021 Feb.

        Monitoring Parameters

        • serum phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations

        US Drug Names

        • JAVYGTOR
        • KUVAN
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