ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:. Multiple Sclerosis. Mitoxantrone has been administered to 149 patients with multiple sclerosis in two randomized clinical trials, including 21 patients who received mitoxantrone in combination with corticosteroids. In Study 1, the proportion of patients who discontinued treatment due to an adverse event was 9.7% (n=6) in the 12 mg/m mitoxantrone arm (leukopenia, depression, decreased LV function, bone pain and emesis, renal failure, and one discontinuation to prevent future complications from repeated urinary tract infections) compared to 3.1% (n=2) in the placebo arm (hepatitis and myocardial infarction). The following clinical adverse experiences were significantly more frequent in the mitoxantrone groups: nausea, alopecia, urinary tract infection, and menstrual disorders, including amenorrhea. Table 4a summarizes clinical adverse events of all intensities occurring in >= 5% of patients in either dose group of mitoxantrone and that were numerically greater on drug than on placebo in Study 1. The majority of these events were of mild to moderate intensity, and nausea was the only adverse event that occurred with severe intensity in more than one patient (three patients [5%] in the 12 mg/m group). Of note, alopecia consisted of mild hair thinning. Two of the 127 patients treated with mitoxantrone in Study had decreased LVEF to below 50% at some point during the years of treatment. An additional patient receiving 12 mg/m did not have LVEF measured, but had another echocardiographic measure of ventricular function (fractional shortening) that led to discontinuation from the study. Table 4aAdverse Events of Any Intensity Occurring in >= 5% of Patients on Any Dose of Mitoxantrone and That Were Numerically Greater Than in the Placebo Group Study 1Percent of PatientsPreferred TermPlacebo(N=64)5 mg/m Mitoxantrone(N=65)12 mg/m Mitoxantrone(N=62)Nausea 20 55 76 Alopecia 31 38 61 Menstrual disorder 26 51 61 Amenorrhea 28 43 Upper respiratory tract infection 52 51 53 Urinary tract infection 13 29 32 Stomatitis 15 19 Arrhythmia 6 18 Diarrhea 11 25 16 Urine abnormal 5 11 ECG abnormal 5 11 Constipation 14 10 Back pain 6 Sinusitis 3 Headache 6 Percentage of female patients.The proportion of patients experiencing any infection during Study was 67% for the placebo group, 85% for the mg/m group, and 81% for the 12 mg/m group. However, few of these infections required hospitalization: one placebo patient (tonsillitis), three mg/m patients (enteritis, urinary tract infection, viral infection), and four 12 mg/m patients (tonsillitis, urinary tract infection [two], endometritis). Table 4b summarizes laboratory abnormalities that occurred in >= 5% of patients in either mitoxantrone dose group, and that were numerically more frequent than in the placebo group.Table 4bLaboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >= 5% of Patients on Either Dose of Mitoxantrone and That Were More Frequent Than in the Placebo Group Study 1Percent of PatientsEventPlacebo(N=64)5 mg/m Mitoxantrone(N=65)12 mg/m Mitoxantrone(N=62)Leukopenia 0 19 Gamma-GT increased 3 15 SGOT increased 9 Granulocytopenia 2 6 Anemia 9 SGPT increased 6 Assessed using World Health Organization (WHO) toxicity criteria.a <4000 cells/mm b <2000 cells/mm There was no difference among treatment groups in the incidence or severity of hemorrhagic events. In Study 2, mitoxantrone was administered once month. Clinical adverse events most frequently reported in the mitoxantrone group included amenorrhea (53% of female patients), alopecia (33% of patients), nausea (29% of patients), and asthenia (24% of patients). Tables 5a and 5b respectively summarize adverse events and laboratory abnormalities occurring in >5% of patients in the mitoxantrone group and numerically more frequent than in the control group.Table 5a Adverse Events of Any Intensity Occurring in >5% of Patients in the Mitoxantrone Group and Numerically More Frequent Than in the Control Group Study 2Percent of PatientsEventMP(N=21)M+MP(N=21)Amenorrha 0 53 Alopecia 33 Nausea 29 Asthenia 24 Pharyngitis/throat infection 19 Gastralgia/stomach burn/epigastric pain 14 Aphthosis 10 Cutaneous mycosis 10 Rhinitis 10 Menorrhagia 0 M=mitoxantrone, MP=methylprednisolone. Assessed using National Cancer Institute (NCI) common toxicity criteria.a Percentage of female patients. Table 5bLaboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >5% of Patients in the Mitoxantrone Group and Numerically More Frequent Than in the Control GroupStudy 2Percent of PatientsEventMP(N=21)M+MP(N=21)WBC low 14 100 ANC low 10 100 Lymphocytes low 43 95 Hemoglobin low 48 43 Platelets low 0 33 SGOT high 15 SGPT high 10 15 Glucose high 10 Potassium low 10 M=mitoxantrone, MP=methylprednisolone. Assessed using National Cancer Institute (NCI) common toxicity criteria.a <4000 cells/mm b <1500 cells/mm c <100,000 cells/mm Leukopenia and neutropenia were reported in the M+MP group (see Table 5b). Neutropenia occurred within weeks after mitoxantrone administration and was always reversible. Only mild to moderate intensity infections were reported in of 21 patients in the M+MP group and in of 21 patients in the MP group; none of these required hospitalization. There was no difference among treatment groups in the incidence or severity of hemorrhagic events. There were no withdrawals from Study for safety reasons. Leukemia. Mitoxantrone has been studied in approximately 600 patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL). Table represents the adverse reaction experience in the large U.S. comparative study of mitoxantrone cytarabine vs. daunorubicin cytarabine. Experience in the large international study was similar. much wider experience in variety of other tumor types revealed no additional important reactions other than cardiomyopathy (see WARNINGS). It should be appreciated that the listed adverse reaction categories include overlapping clinical symptoms related to the same condition, e.g., dyspnea, cough and pneumonia. In addition, the listed adverse reactions cannot all necessarily be attributed to chemotherapy as it is often impossible to distinguish effects of the drug and effects of the underlying disease. It is clear, however, that the combination of mitoxantrone cytarabine was responsible for nausea and vomiting, alopecia, mucositis/stomatitis, and myelosuppression. Table summarizes adverse reactions occurring in patients treated with mitoxantrone cytarabine in comparison with those who received daunorubicin cytarabine for therapy of ANLL in large multicenter randomized prospective U.S. trial. Adverse reactions are presented as major categories and selected examples of clinically significant subcategories.Table Adverse Events Occurring in ANLL Patients Receiving Mitoxantrone or Daunorubicin InductionConsolidation [% pts entering induction][% pts entering induction]EventMIT(N=102) DAUN(N=102) MIT(N=55) DAUN(N=49) Cardiovascular 26 28 11 24 CHF 6 0 Arrhythmias 3 4 Bleeding 37 41 20 GI 16 12 2 Petechiae/ecchymoses 9 11 Gastrointestinal 88 85 58 51 Nausea/vomiting 72 67 31 31 Diarrhea 47 47 18 Abdominal pain 15 9 Mucositis/stomatitis 29 33 18 Hepatic 10 11 14 Jaundice 8 0 Infections 66 73 60 43 UTI 2 2 Pneumonia 7 0 Sepsis 34 36 31 18 Fungal infections 15 13 6 Renal failure 6 2 Fever 78 71 24 18 Alopecia 37 40 22 16 Pulmonary 43 43 24 14 Cough 13 9 Dyspnea 18 20 0 CNS 30 30 34 35 Seizures 4 8 Headache 10 13 Eye 6 4 Conjunctivitis 1 0 MIT mitoxantrone, DAUN daunorubicin.. Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer. Detailed safety information is available for total of 353 patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer treated with mitoxantrone, including 274 patients who received mitoxantrone in combination with corticosteroids.Table summarizes adverse reactions of all grades occurring in >= 5% of patients in Trial CCI-NOV22. Table 7Adverse Events of Any Intensity Occurring in >= 5% of Patients in Trial CCI-NOV22M PP(N=80)(N=81)Event%%Nausea 61 35 Fatigue 39 14 Alopecia 29 Anorexia 25 Constipation 16 14 Dyspnea 11 Nail bed changes 11 Edema 10 Systemic infection 10 Mucositis 10 UTI 4 Emesis 5 Pain 9 Fever 3 Hemorrhage/bruise 1 Anemia 3 Cough 0 Decreased LVEF 0 Anxiety/depression 3 Dyspepsia 6 Skin infection 3 Blurred vision 5 = mitoxantrone, = prednisone.No nonhematologic adverse events of Grade 3/4 were seen in 5% of patients.Table summarizes adverse events of all grades occurring in >= 5% of patients in Trial CALGB 9182.Table 8Adverse Events of Any Intensity Occurring in >=5% of Patients in Trial CALGB 9182 + HH (N=112)(N=113)EventN%N%Decreased WBC 96 87 4 Abnormal granulocytes/bands 88 79 3 Decreased hemoglobin 83 75 42 39 Abnormal lymphocytes count 78 72 27 25 Pain 45 41 44 39 Abnormal platelet count 43 39 7 Abnormal alkaline phosphatase 41 37 42 38 Malaise/fatigue 37 34 16 14 Hyperglycemia 33 31 32 30 Edema 31 30 15 14 Nausea 28 26 8 Anorexia 24 22 16 14 Abnormal BUN 24 22 22 20 Abnormal Transaminase 22 20 16 14 Alopecia 20 20 1 Abnormal Cardiac function 19 18 0 Infection 18 17 4 Weight loss 18 17 13 12 Dyspnea 16 15 8 Diarrhea 16 14 4 Fever in absence of infection 15 14 6 Weight gain 15 14 16 15 Abnormal creatinine 14 13 11 10 Other gastrointestinal 13 14 11 11 Vomiting 12 11 5 Other neurologic 11 11 5 Hypocalcemia 10 10 5 Hematuria 11 6 Hyponatremia 9 3 Sweats 9 2 Other liver 8 8 Stomatitis 8 1 Cardiac dysrhythmia 7 3 Hypokalemia 7 4 Neuro/constipation 7 2 Neuro/motor disorder 7 3 Neuro/mood disorder 6 2 Skin disorder 6 4 Cardiac ischemia 5 1 Chills 5 0 Hemorrhage 5 3 Myalgias/arthralgias 5 3 Other kidney/bladder 5 3 Other endocrine 6 4 Other pulmonary 5 3 Hypertension 4 5 Impotence/libido 7 3 Proteinuria 6 3 Sterility 5 3 M= mitoxantrone, H= hydrocortisone.. General. Allergic Reaction Hypotension, urticaria, dyspnea, and rashes have been reported occasionally. Anaphylaxis/anaphylactoid reactions have been reported rarely.Cutaneous Extravasation at the infusion site has been reported, which may result in erythema, swelling, pain, burning, and/or blue discoloration of the skin. Extravasation can result in tissue necrosis with resultant need for debridement and skin grafting. Phlebitis has also been reported at the site of the infusion.HematologicTopoisomerase II inhibitors, including mitoxantrone, in combination with other antineoplastic agents or alone, have been associated with the development of acute leukemia (see WARNINGS). Leukemia Myelosuppression is rapid in onset and is consistent with the requirement to produce significant marrow hypoplasia in order to achieve response in acute leukemia. The incidences of infection and bleeding seen in the U.S. trial are consistent with those reported for other standard induction regimens.Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer In randomized study where dose escalation was required for neutrophil counts greater than 1000/mm 3, Grade neutropenia (ANC 500 /mm 3) was observed in 54% of patients treated with mitoxantrone low-dose prednisone. In separate randomized trial where patients were treated with 14 mg/m 2, Grade neutropenia in 23% of patients treated with mitoxantrone hydrocortisone was observed. Neutropenic fever/infection occurred in 11% and 10% of patients receiving mitoxantrone corticosteroids, respectively, on the two trials. Platelets 50,000/mm were noted in 4% and 3% of patients receiving mitoxantrone corticosteroids on these trials, and there was one patient death on mitoxantrone hydrocortisone due to intracranial hemorrhage after fall. GastrointestinalNausea and vomiting occurred acutely in most patients and may have contributed to reports of dehydration, but were generally mild to moderate and could be controlled through the use of antiemetics. Stomatitis/mucositis occurred within week of therapy.CardiovascularCongestive heart failure, tachycardia, EKG changes including arrhythmias, chest pain, and asymptomatic decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction have occurred (see WARNINGS). PulmonaryInterstitial pneumonitis has been reported in cancer patients receiving combination chemotherapy that included mitoxantrone.

BOXED WARNING SECTION.

WARNING Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) should be administered under the supervision of physician experienced in the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy agents. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) should be given slowly into freely flowing intravenous infusion. It must never be given subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intra-arterially. Severe local tissue damage may occur if there is extravasation during administration (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, General, Cutaneous and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Preparation and Administration Precautions). NOT FOR INTRATHECAL USE. Severe injury with permanent sequelae can result from intrathecal administration (see WARNINGS, General). Except for the treatment of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, mitoxantrone therapy generally should not be given to patients with baseline neutrophil counts of less than 1,500 cells/mm 3. In order to monitor the occurrence of bone marrow suppression, primarily neutropenia, which may be severe and result in infection, it is recommended that frequent peripheral blood cell counts be performed on all patients receiving mitoxantrone. Cardiotoxicity: Congestive heart failure (CHF), potentially fatal, may occur either during therapy with mitoxantrone or months to years after termination of therapy. Cardiotoxicity risk increases with cumulative mitoxantrone dose and may occur whether or not cardiac risk factors are present. Presence or history of cardiovascular disease, radiotherapy to the mediastinal/pericardial area, previous therapy with other anthracyclines or anthracenediones, or use of other cardiotoxic drugs may increase this risk. In cancer patients, the risk of symptomatic CHF was estimated to be 2.6% for patients receiving up to cumulative dose of 140 mg/m 2. To mitigate the cardiotoxicity risk with mitoxantrone, prescribers should consider the following: All Patients: All patients should be assessed for cardiac signs and symptoms by history, physical examination, and ECG prior to start of mitoxantrone therapy.All patients should have baseline quantitative evaluation of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) using appropriate methodology (ex. Echocardiogram, multi-gated radionuclide angiography (MUGA), MRI, etc.). Multiple Sclerosis Patients: MS patients with baseline LVEF below the lower limit of normal should not be treated with mitoxantrone. MS patients should be assessed for cardiac signs and symptoms by history, physical examination and ECG prior to each dose. MS patients should undergo quantitative re-evaluation of LVEF prior to each dose using the same methodology that was used to assess baseline LVEF. Additional doses of mitoxantrone should not be administered to multiple sclerosis patients who have experienced either drop in LVEF to below the lower limit of normal or clinically significant reduction in LVEF during mitoxantrone therapy.MS patients should not receive cumulative mitoxantrone dose greater than 140 mg/m 2. MS patients should undergo yearly quantitative LVEF evaluation after stopping mitoxantrone to monitor for late occurring cardiotoxicity. Secondary Leukemia: Mitoxantrone therapy in patients with MS and in patients with cancer increases the risk of developing secondary acute myeloid leukemia. For additional information, see WARNINGS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. All patients should be assessed for cardiac signs and symptoms by history, physical examination, and ECG prior to start of mitoxantrone therapy.. All patients should have baseline quantitative evaluation of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) using appropriate methodology (ex. Echocardiogram, multi-gated radionuclide angiography (MUGA), MRI, etc.). MS patients with baseline LVEF below the lower limit of normal should not be treated with mitoxantrone. MS patients should be assessed for cardiac signs and symptoms by history, physical examination and ECG prior to each dose. MS patients should undergo quantitative re-evaluation of LVEF prior to each dose using the same methodology that was used to assess baseline LVEF. Additional doses of mitoxantrone should not be administered to multiple sclerosis patients who have experienced either drop in LVEF to below the lower limit of normal or clinically significant reduction in LVEF during mitoxantrone therapy.. MS patients should not receive cumulative mitoxantrone dose greater than 140 mg/m 2. MS patients should undergo yearly quantitative LVEF evaluation after stopping mitoxantrone to monitor for late occurring cardiotoxicity.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY:. Mechanism of Action. Mitoxantrone, DNA-reactive agent that intercalates into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) through hydrogen bonding, causes crosslinks and strand breaks. Mitoxantrone also interferes with ribonucleic acid (RNA) and is potent inhibitor of topoisomerase II, an enzyme responsible for uncoiling and repairing damaged DNA. It has cytocidal effect on both proliferating and nonproliferating cultured human cells, suggesting lack of cell cycle phase specificity. Mitoxantrone has been shown in vitro to inhibit cell, cell, and macrophage proliferation and impair antigen presentation, as well as the secretion of interferon gamma, TNF, and IL-2. Pharmacokinetics. Pharmacokinetics of mitoxantrone in patients following single intravenous administration of mitoxantrone can be characterized by three-compartment model. The mean alpha half-life of mitoxantrone is to 12 minutes, the mean beta half-life is 1.1 to 3.1 hours and the mean gamma (terminal or elimination) half-life is 23 to 215 hours (median approximately 75 hours). Pharmacokinetic studies have not been performed in humans receiving multiple daily dosing. Distribution to tissues is extensive: steady-state volume of distribution exceeds 1,000 L/m 2. Tissue concentrations of mitoxantrone appear to exceed those in the blood during the terminal elimination phase. In the healthy monkey, distribution to brain, spinal cord, eye, and spinal fluid is low. In patients administered 15 to 90 mg/m of mitoxantrone intravenously, there is linear relationship between dose and the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC). Mitoxantrone is 78% bound to plasma proteins in the observed concentration range of 26 to 455 ng/mL. This binding is independent of concentration and is not affected by the presence of phenytoin, doxorubicin, methotrexate, prednisone, prednisolone, heparin, or aspirin.. Metabolism and Elimination. Mitoxantrone is excreted in urine and feces as either unchanged drug or as inactive metabolites. In human studies, 11% and 25% of the dose were recovered in urine and feces, respectively, as either parent drug or metabolite during the 5-day period following drug administration. Of the material recovered in urine, 65% was unchanged drug. The remaining 35% was composed of monocarboxylic and dicarboxylic acid derivatives and their glucuronide conjugates. The pathways leading to the metabolism of mitoxantrone have not been elucidated.. Special Populations. GenderThe effect of gender on mitoxantrone pharmacokinetics is unknown.GeriatricIn elderly patients with breast cancer, the systemic mitoxantrone clearance was 21.3 L/hr/m 2, compared with 28.3 L/hr/m and 16.2 L/hr/m for non-elderly patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and malignant lymphoma, respectively PediatricMitoxantrone pharmacokinetics in the pediatric population are unknown RaceThe effect of race on mitoxantrone pharmacokinetics is unknown Renal ImpairmentMitoxantrone pharmacokinetics in patients with renal impairment are unknown Hepatic ImpairmentMitoxantrone clearance is reduced by hepatic impairment. Patients with severe hepatic dysfunction (bilirubin 3.4 mg/dL) have an AUC more than three times greater than that of patients with normal hepatic function receiving the same dose. Patients with multiple sclerosis who have hepatic impairment should ordinarily not be treated with mitoxantrone. Other patients with hepatic impairment should be treated with caution and dosage adjustment may be required . Drug Interactions. In vitro drug interaction studies have demonstrated that mitoxantrone did not inhibit CYP450 1A2, 2A6, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A4 across broad concentration range. The results of in vitro induction studies are inconclusive, but suggest that mitoxantrone may be weak inducer of CYP450 2E1 activity. Pharmacokinetic studies of the interaction of mitoxantrone with concomitantly administered medications in humans have not been performed. The pathways leading to the metabolism of mitoxantrone have not been elucidated. To date, postmarketing experience has not revealed any significant drug interactions in patients who have received mitoxantrone for treatment of cancer. Information on drug interactions in patients with multiple sclerosis is limited.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated prior hypersensitivity to it.

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

DESCRIPTION:. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) is synthetic antineoplastic anthracenedione for intravenous use. It is supplied as concentrate that MUST BE DILUTED PRIOR TO INJECTION. The concentrate is sterile, nonpyrogenic, dark blue aqueous solution containing mitoxantrone hydrochloride equivalent to mg/mL mitoxantrone free base, with the following inactive ingredients: sodium chloride (0.800% w/v), sodium acetate (0.005% w/v), acetic acid (0.046% w/v), and water for injection. The solution has pH of 3.0 to 4.5 and contains 0.14 mEq of sodium per mL. The product does not contain preservatives. The chemical name is 1,4-dihydroxy-5,8-bis[[2-[(2-hydroxyethyl) amino]ethyl]amino]-9,10- anthracenedione dihydrochloride and the structural formula is: structure.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:. (see also WARNINGS). Multiple Sclerosis. The recommended dosage of Mitoxantrone Injection, USP is 12 mg/m given as short (approximately to 15 minutes) intravenous infusion every months. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) should be evaluated by echocardiogram or MUGA prior to administration of the initial dose of Mitoxantrone Injection, USP and all subsequent doses. In addition, LVEF evaluations are recommended if signs or symptoms of congestive heart failure develop at any time during treatment with Mitoxantrone Injection, USP. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP should not be administered to multiple sclerosis patients with an LVEF <50%, with clinically significant reduction in LVEF, or to those who have received cumulative lifetime dose of >= 140 mg/m 2. Complete blood counts, including platelets, should be monitored prior to each course of Mitoxantrone Injection, USP and in the event that signs or symptoms of infection develop. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP generally should not be administered to multiple sclerosis patients with neutrophil counts less than 1500 cells/mm 3. Liver function tests should also be monitored prior to each course. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP therapy in multiple sclerosis patients with abnormal liver function tests is not recommended because Mitoxantrone Injection, USP clearance is reduced by hepatic impairment and no laboratory measurement can predict drug clearance and dose adjustments. Women with multiple sclerosis who are biologically capable of becoming pregnant, even if they are using birth control, should have pregnancy test, and the results should be known, before receiving each dose of Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (see WARNINGS, Pregnancy). Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer. Based on data from two Phase comparative trials of mitoxantrone injection plus corticosteroids versus corticosteroids alone, the recommended dosage of mitoxantrone is 12 to 14 mg/m given as short intravenous infusion every 21 days. Combination Initial Therapy for ANLL in Adults. For induction, the recommended dosage is 12 mg/m of Mitoxantrone Injection daily on Days to given as an intravenous infusion, and 100 mg/m of cytarabine for days given as continuous 24-hour infusion on Days to 7. Most complete remissions will occur following the initial course of induction therapy. In the event of an incomplete antileukemic response, second induction course may be given. Mitoxantrone Injection should be given for days and cytarabine for days using the same daily dosage levels.If severe or life-threatening nonhematologic toxicity is observed during the first induction course, the second induction course should be withheld until toxicity resolves. Consolidation therapy which was used in two large randomized multicenter trials consisted of mitoxantrone, 12 mg/m given by intravenous infusion daily on Days and and cytarabine, 100 mg/m for days given as continuous 24-hour infusion on Days to 5. The first course was given approximately weeks after the final induction course; the second was generally administered weeks after the first. Severe myelosuppression occurred (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Hepatic Impairment. For patients with hepatic impairment, there is at present no laboratory measurement that allows for dose adjustment recommendations (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Hepatic Impairment). Preparation and Administration Precautions. MITOXANTRONE INJECTION, USP (CONCENTRATE) MUST BE DILUTED PRIOR TO USE.Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit.The dose of mitoxantrone should be diluted to at least 50 mL with either 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection (USP) or 5% Dextrose Injection (USP). Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) may be further diluted into Dextrose 5% in Water, Normal Saline or Dextrose 5% with Normal Saline and used immediately. DO NOT FREEZE. Mitoxantrone should not be mixed in the same infusion as heparin since precipitate may form. Because specific compatibility data are not available, it is recommended that mitoxantrone not be mixed in the same infusion with other drugs. The diluted solution should be introduced slowly into the tubing as freely running intravenous infusion of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection (USP) or 5% Dextrose Injection (USP) over period of not less than minutes. Unused infusion solutions should be discarded immediately in an appropriate fashion. In the case of multidose use, after penetration of the stopper, the remaining portion of the undiluted Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) should be stored not longer than days between 15 to 25C (59 to 77F) or 14 days under refrigeration. DO NOT FREEZE. CONTAINS NO PRESERVATIVE. Care in the administration of mitoxantrone will reduce the chance of extravasation. Mitoxantrone should be administered into the tubing of freely running intravenous infusion of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. The tubing should be attached to Butterfly needle or other suitable device and inserted preferably into large vein. If possible, avoid veins over joints or in extremities with compromised venous or lymphatic drainage. Care should be taken to avoid extravasation at the infusion site and to avoid contact of mitoxantrone with the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. MITOXANTRONE SHOULD NOT BE ADMINISTERED SUBCUTANEOUSLY. If any signs or symptoms of extravasation have occurred, including burning, pain, pruritus, erythema, swelling, blue discoloration, or ulceration, the injection or infusion should be immediately terminated and restarted in another vein. During intravenous administration of mitoxantrone extravasation may occur with or without an accompanying stinging or burning sensation even if blood returns well on aspiration of the infusion needle. If it is known or suspected that subcutaneous extravasation has occurred, it is recommended that intermittent ice packs be placed over the area of extravasation and that the affected extremity be elevated. Because of the progressive nature of extravasation reactions, the area of injection should be frequently examined and surgery consultation obtained early if there is any sign of local reaction. Skin accidentally exposed to mitoxantrone should be rinsed copiously with warm water and if the eyes are involved, standard irrigation techniques should be used immediately. The use of goggles, gloves, and protective gowns is recommended during preparation and administration of the drug. Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer drugs should be considered. Several guidelines on this subject have been published. 1-4 There is no general agreement that all of the procedures recommended in the guidelines are necessary or appropriate.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

HOW SUPPLIED:. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) is sterile aqueous solution containing mitoxantrone hydrochloride at concentration equivalent to mg mitoxantrone free base per mL supplied in vials for multidose use as follows:Product No.NDC No. 132010 63323-132-10 10 mL fill in 10 mL vial, 20 mg per 10 mL (2 mg per mL). 132012P 63323-132-12 12.5 mL fill in 15 mL vial, 25 mg per 12.5 mL (2 mg per mL). 132015 63323-132-15 15 mL fill in 15 mL vial, 30 mg per 15 mL (2 mg per mL). The above products are packaged individually.STORE AT: 20o to 25oC (68 to 77F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep from freezing. The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE:. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP is indicated for reducing neurologic disability and/or the frequency of clinical relapses in patients with secondary (chronic) progressive, progressive relapsing, or worsening relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (i.e., patients whose neurologic status is significantly abnormal between relapses). Mitoxantrone Injection, USP is not indicated in the treatment of patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. The clinical patterns of multiple sclerosis in the studies were characterized as follows: secondary progressive and progressive relapsing disease were characterized by gradual increasing disability with or without superimposed clinical relapses, and worsening relapsing-remitting disease was characterized by clinical relapses resulting in step-wise worsening of disability. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP in combination with corticosteroids is indicated as initial chemotherapy for the treatment of patients with pain related to advanced hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Mitoxantrone Injection, USP in combination with other approved drug(s) is indicated in the initial therapy of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) in adults. This category includes myelogenous, promyelocytic, monocytic, and erythroid acute leukemias.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

OVERDOSAGE:. There is no known specific antidote for mitoxantrone. Accidental overdoses have been reported. Four patients receiving 140 to 180 mg/m as single bolus injection died as result of severe leukopenia with infection. Hematologic support and antimicrobial therapy may be required during prolonged periods of severe myelosuppression. Although patients with severe renal failure have not been studied, mitoxantrone is extensively tissue bound and it is unlikely that the therapeutic effect or toxicity would be mitigated by peritoneal or hemodialysis.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

PACKAGE LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY Mitoxantrone 12.5 mL Multiple Dose Vial LabelMitoXANTRONE Injection, USP (Concentrate)25 mg per 12.5 mL(2 mg per mL) For intravenous infusion After Dilution Preservative free. PHARMACIST: Dispense the enclosed Medication Guide to each patient. 12.5 mL Multiple Dose Vial Rx onlyPACKAGE LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY Mitoxantrone 12.5 mL Multiple Dose Vial Carton PanelMitoXANTRONE Injection, USP (Concentrate)25 mg per 12.5 mL(2 mg per mL) For intravenous infusion After Dilution Preservative free. PHARMACIST: Dispense the enclosed Medication Guide to each patient.Rx only 12.5 mLMultiple Dose Vial vial. pbox.

PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

PRECAUTIONS:. General. Therapy with mitoxantrone should be accompanied by close and frequent monitoring of hematologic and chemical laboratory parameters, as well as frequent patient observation.Systemic infections should be treated concomitantly with or just prior to commencing therapy with mitoxantrone.. Information for Patients. See FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).Inform patients of the availability of Medication Guide and instruct them to read the Medication Guide prior to initiating treatment with mitoxantrone and prior to each infusion. Review the Mitoxantrone Medication Guide with every patient prior to initiation of treatment and periodically during treatment. Instruct patients that mitoxantrone should be taken only as prescribed.Advise patients that mitoxantrone can cause myelosuppression and inform patients of the signs and symptoms of myelosuppression. Advise patients that mitoxantrone can cause congestive heart failure that may lead to death even in people who have never had heart problems before, and inform patients of the signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure. Advise patients receiving mitoxantrone to treat multiple sclerosis that they should receive cardiac monitoring prior to each mitoxantrone dose and yearly after stopping mitoxantrone.Mitoxantrone may impart blue-green color to the urine for 24 hours after administration, and patients should be advised to expect this during therapy. Bluish discoloration of the sclera may also occur. Laboratory Tests. complete blood count, including platelets, should be obtained prior to each course of mitoxantrone and in the event that signs and symptoms of infection develop. Liver function tests should also be performed prior to each course of therapy. Mitoxantrone therapy in multiple sclerosis patients with abnormal liver function tests is not recommended because mitoxantrone clearance is reduced by hepatic impairment and no laboratory measurement can predict drug clearance and dose adjustments.In leukemia treatment, hyperuricemia may occur as result of rapid lysis of tumor cells by mitoxantrone. Serum uric acid levels should be monitored and hypouricemic therapy instituted prior to the initiation of antileukemic therapy.Women with multiple sclerosis who are biologically capable of becoming pregnant, even if they are using birth control, should have pregnancy test, and the results should be known, before receiving each dose of mitoxantrone (see WARNINGS, Pregnancy). Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. CarcinogenesisIntravenous treatment of rats and mice, once every 21 days for 24 months, with mitoxantrone resulted in an increased incidence of fibroma and external auditory canal tumors in rats at dose of 0.03 mg/kg (0.02 fold the recommended human dose, on mg/m basis), and hepatocellular adenoma in male mice at dose of 0.1 mg/kg (0.03 fold the recommended human dose, on mg/m basis). Intravenous treatment of rats, once every 21 days for 12 months with mitoxantrone resulted in an increased incidence of external auditory canal tumors in rats at dose of 0.3 mg/kg (0.15 fold the recommended human dose, on mg/m basis). MutagenesisMitoxantrone was clastogenic in the in vivo rat bone marrow assay. Mitoxantrone was also clastogenic in two in vitro assays; it induced DNA damage in primary rat hepatocytes and sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary cells. Mitoxantrone was mutagenic in bacterial and mammalian test systems (Ames/Salmonella and E. coli and L5178Y TK+/-mouse lymphoma). Drug Interactions. Mitoxantrone and its metabolites are excreted in bile and urine, but it is not known whether the metabolic or excretory pathways are saturable, may be inhibited or induced, or if mitoxantrone and its metabolites undergo enterohepatic circulation. To date, post-marketing experience has not revealed any significant drug interactions in patients who have received mitoxantrone for treatment of cancer. Information on drug interactions in patients with multiple sclerosis is limited.Following concurrent administration of mitoxantrone with corticosteroids, no evidence of drug interactions has been observed.. Special Populations. Hepatic ImpairmentPatients with multiple sclerosis who have hepatic impairment should ordinarily not be treated with mitoxantrone. Mitoxantrone should be administered with caution to other patients with hepatic impairment. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the AUC is more than three times greater than the value observed in patients with normal hepatic function.. Pregnancy. Pregnancy Category (see WARNINGS). Nursing Mothers. Mitoxantrone is excreted in human milk and significant concentrations (18 ng/mL) have been reported for 28 days after the last administration. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants from mitoxantrone, breastfeeding should be discontinued before starting treatment.. Pediatric Use. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.. Geriatric Use. Multiple SclerosisClinical studies of mitoxantrone did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. Hormone-Refractory Prostate CancerOne hundred forty-six patients aged 65 and over and 52 younger patients (<65 years) have been treated with mitoxantrone in controlled clinical studies. These studies did not include sufficient numbers of younger patients to determine whether they respond differently from older patients. However, greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.Acute Nonlymphocytic LeukemiaAlthough definitive studies with mitoxantrone have not been performed in geriatric patients with ANLL, toxicity may be more frequent in the elderly. Elderly patients are more likely to have age-related comorbidities due to disease or disease therapy.

REFERENCES SECTION.

REFERENCES:. NIOSH Alert: Preventing occupational exposures to antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. 2004. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-165.OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otmvi2.html.American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. (2006) ASHP Guidelines on Handling Hazardous Drugs.Polovich, M., White, J.M., Kelleher, L.O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology Nursing Society.. NIOSH Alert: Preventing occupational exposures to antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. 2004. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-165.. OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otmvi2.html.. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. (2006) ASHP Guidelines on Handling Hazardous Drugs.. Polovich, M., White, J.M., Kelleher, L.O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology Nursing Society.

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION.

MEDICATION GUIDE. MitoXANTRONEInjection, USP(Concentrate)Read this Medication Guide before you start receiving mitoXANTRONE and each time you receive mitoXANTRONE. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. What is the most important information should know about mitoXANTRONE MitoXANTRONE can cause serious side effects, including: decrease in the ability of your bone marrow to make blood cells (myelosuppression). Your doctor may do blood tests during treatment with mitoXANTRONE to check your blood cell counts. The symptoms of myelosuppression can include: feeling tired increased infections bruising and bleeding easily heart problems (congestive heart failure) that may lead to death even in people who have never had heart problems before. Heart failure can happen while you receive mitoXANTRONE, or months to years after you stop receiving mitoXANTRONE. Your risk of heart failure increases the more mitoXANTRONE you receive. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of these problems during or after treatment with mitoXANTRONE: shortness of breath swelling of your ankles or feet sudden weight gain fast heartbeat or pounding in your chest Before receiving mitoXANTRONE for the first time, you should have the following tests done: physical examination a test to check your hearts electrical activity (electrocardiogram) a test to check your hearts ability to pump blood If you receive mitoXANTRONE to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS), your doctor should also do the tests above: before you receive each mitoXANTRONE dose yearly after you stop receiving mitoXANTRONE treatment acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Receiving mitoXANTRONE increases your risk of AML. AML is cancer of the blood-forming cells of your bone marrow. Symptoms of AML can include: feeling unusually tired and weak increased infections bruising and bleeding easily fever pain in your bones trouble breathing unexplained weight loss night sweats skin problems at your injection site. If mitoXANTRONE leaks out of your vein, skin problems can happen that may lead to serious skin damage (necrosis). Necrosis may need to be repaired surgically. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following problems at your injection site: redness swelling pain burning skin turns bluish color What is mitoXANTRONE MitoXANTRONE is prescription medicine used alone or with other medicines to treat people with: secondary (chronic) progressive, progressive relapsing, or worsening relapsing- remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) pain related to advanced hormone-refractory prostate cancer acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) MitoXANTRONE is not for people with primary progressive MS.It is not known if mitoXANTRONE is safe and effective in children. Who should not receive mitoXANTRONE Do not receive mitoXANTRONE if you are allergic to mitoXANTRONE or any of the ingredients in mitoXANTRONE. See the end of this Medication Guide for complete list of ingredients in mitoXANTRONE. What should tell my doctor before receiving mitoXANTRONE Before you receive mitoXANTRONE, tell your doctor if you have: received mitoXANTRONE in the past heart problems liver problems kidney problems low blood cell counts an infection had radiation treatment in your chest area any other medical conditions are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. MitoXANTRONE may harm your unborn baby. Women who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control (contraception) while using mitoXANTRONE and should have pregnancy test, with known results, before receiving each dose of mitoXANTRONE. Talk to your doctor about using effective birth control while you receive mitoXANTRONE. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. MitoXANTRONE can pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby if you receive mitoXANTRONE. Do not breastfeed while receiving mitoXANTRONE. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using mitoXANTRONE with certain other medicines may cause serious side effects. Especially tell your doctor if you take or have taken: medicines for cancer treatment called anthracyclines or anthracenediones medicines that may affect your heart Ask your doctor or pharmacist for list of these medicines if you are not sure if you take or have taken any of these medicines. Know the medicines you take. Keep list of them to show your doctor and pharmacist when you get new medicine. How should receive mitoXANTRONE MitoXANTRONE is given by slow infusion through needle placed in vein (intravenous infusion) in your arm. Your doctor will tell you how often you will receive mitoXANTRONE. If you receive mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, your doctor should check how well your heart is working before each mitoXANTRONE dose. Talk to your doctor if you have not had your heart tests done before your mitoXANTRONE dose. Your doctor will do blood tests during your treatment with mitoXANTRONE to check your blood cell counts. If you are woman of childbearing age taking mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, your doctor should do pregnancy test before each mitoXANTRONE dose, even if you are using birth control. If you receive mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, there is limit to the total amount of mitoXANTRONE you can receive during your lifetime. There is higher risk of heart failure with increasing total lifetime doses of mitoXANTRONE. What are the possible side effects of mitoXANTRONE MitoXANTRONE may cause serious side effects, including: See What is the most important information should know about mitoXANTRONEThe most common side effects of mitoXANTRONE include:blue-green colored urine for about 24 hours after receiving mitoXANTRONE. This color change is harmless. bluish coloring of the whites of your eyes for about 24 hours after receiving mitoXANTRONE. This color change is harmless. nausea constipation diarrhea stomach pain hair loss fever and chills due to infections cough and sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection mouth sores due to mouth infection loss of your menstrual period Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of mitoXANTRONE. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. General information about the safe and effective use of mitoXANTRONE. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in Medication Guide. This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about mitoXANTRONE. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about mitoXANTRONE that is written for health professionals. For more information, call 1-800-551-7176. What are the ingredients in mitoXANTRONE Active ingredient: mitoXANTRONE hydrochloride Inactive ingredients: sodium chloride, sodium acetate, and acetic acid This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. www.fresenius-kabi.us 451029GRevised: October 2016. decrease in the ability of your bone marrow to make blood cells (myelosuppression). Your doctor may do blood tests during treatment with mitoXANTRONE to check your blood cell counts. The symptoms of myelosuppression can include: heart problems (congestive heart failure) that may lead to death even in people who have never had heart problems before. Heart failure can happen while you receive mitoXANTRONE, or months to years after you stop receiving mitoXANTRONE. Your risk of heart failure increases the more mitoXANTRONE you receive. acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Receiving mitoXANTRONE increases your risk of AML. AML is cancer of the blood-forming cells of your bone marrow. skin problems at your injection site. If mitoXANTRONE leaks out of your vein, skin problems can happen that may lead to serious skin damage (necrosis). Necrosis may need to be repaired surgically. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following problems at your injection site: secondary (chronic) progressive, progressive relapsing, or worsening relapsing- remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) pain related to advanced hormone-refractory prostate cancer acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) received mitoXANTRONE in the past heart problems liver problems kidney problems low blood cell counts an infection had radiation treatment in your chest area any other medical conditions are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. MitoXANTRONE may harm your unborn baby. Women who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control (contraception) while using mitoXANTRONE and should have pregnancy test, with known results, before receiving each dose of mitoXANTRONE. Talk to your doctor about using effective birth control while you receive mitoXANTRONE. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. MitoXANTRONE can pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby if you receive mitoXANTRONE. Do not breastfeed while receiving mitoXANTRONE. medicines for cancer treatment called anthracyclines or anthracenediones medicines that may affect your heart MitoXANTRONE is given by slow infusion through needle placed in vein (intravenous infusion) in your arm. Your doctor will tell you how often you will receive mitoXANTRONE. If you receive mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, your doctor should check how well your heart is working before each mitoXANTRONE dose. Talk to your doctor if you have not had your heart tests done before your mitoXANTRONE dose. Your doctor will do blood tests during your treatment with mitoXANTRONE to check your blood cell counts. If you are woman of childbearing age taking mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, your doctor should do pregnancy test before each mitoXANTRONE dose, even if you are using birth control. If you receive mitoXANTRONE to treat MS, there is limit to the total amount of mitoXANTRONE you can receive during your lifetime. There is higher risk of heart failure with increasing total lifetime doses of mitoXANTRONE. See What is the most important information should know about mitoXANTRONE. blue-green colored urine for about 24 hours after receiving mitoXANTRONE. This color change is harmless. bluish coloring of the whites of your eyes for about 24 hours after receiving mitoXANTRONE. This color change is harmless. nausea constipation diarrhea stomach pain hair loss fever and chills due to infections cough and sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection mouth sores due to mouth infection loss of your menstrual period logo.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

(Concentrate)Rx only.

WARNINGS SECTION.

WARNINGS:. WHEN MITOXANTRONE IS USED IN HIGH DOSES (> 14 mg/m 2/d 3 days) SUCH AS INDICATED FOR THE TREATMENT OF LEUKEMIA, SEVERE MYELOSUPPRESSION WILL OCCUR. THEREFORE, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT MITOXANTRONE BE ADMINISTERED ONLY BY PHYSICIANS EXPERIENCED IN THE CHEMOTHERAPY OF THIS DISEASE. LABORATORY AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR HEMATOLOGIC AND CHEMISTRY MONITORING AND ADJUNCTIVE THERAPIES, INCLUDING ANTIBIOTICS. BLOOD AND BLOOD PRODUCTS MUST BE AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT PATIENTS DURING THE EXPECTED PERIOD OF MEDULLARY HYPOPLASIA AND SEVERE MYELOSUPPRESSION. PARTICULAR CARE SHOULD BE GIVEN TO ASSURING FULL HEMATOLOGIC RECOVERY BEFORE UNDERTAKING CONSOLIDATION THERAPY (IF THIS TREATMENT IS USED) AND PATIENTS SHOULD BE MONITORED CLOSELY DURING THIS PHASE. MITOXANTRONE ADMINISTERED AT ANY DOSE CAN CAUSE MYELOSUPPRESSION. General. Patients with pre-existing myelosuppression as the result of prior drug therapy should not receive mitoxantrone unless it is felt that the possible benefit from such treatment warrants the risk of further medullary suppression.The safety of Mitoxantrone Injection, USP (concentrate) in patients with hepatic insufficiency is not established (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Safety for use by routes other than intravenous administration has not been established. Mitoxantrone is not indicated for subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intra-arterial injection. There have been reports of local/regional neuropathy, some irreversible, following intra-arterial injection.Mitoxantrone must not be given by intrathecal injection. There have been reports of neuropathy and neurotoxicity, both central and peripheral, following intrathecal injection. These reports have included seizures leading to coma and severe neurologic sequelae, and paralysis with bowel and bladder dysfunction. Topoisomerase II inhibitors, including mitoxantrone, have been associated with the development of secondary acute myeloid leukemia and myelosuppression.. Cardiac Effects. Because of the possible danger of cardiac effects in patients previously treated with daunorubicin or doxorubicin, the benefit-to-risk ratio of mitoxantrone therapy in such patients should be determined before starting therapy. Functional cardiac changes including decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and irreversible congestive heart failure can occur with mitoxantrone. Cardiac toxicity may be more common in patients with prior treatment with anthracyclines, prior mediastinal radiotherapy, or with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Such patients should have regular cardiac monitoring of LVEF from the initiation of therapy. Cancer patients who received cumulative doses of 140 mg/m either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents had cumulative 2.6% probability of clinical congestive heart failure. In comparative oncology trials, the overall cumulative probability rate of moderate or severe decreases in LVEF at this dose was 13%. Multiple SclerosisChanges in cardiac function may occur in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with mitoxantrone. In one controlled trial (Study 1, see CLINICAL TRIALS, Multiple Sclerosis), two patients (2%) of 127 receiving mitoxantrone, one receiving 5 mg/m dose and the other receiving the 12 mg/m dose, had LVEF values that decreased to below 50%. An additional patient receiving 12 mg/m 2, who did not have LVEF measured, had decrease in another echocardiographic measurement of ventricular function (fractional shortening) that led to discontinuation from the trial (see ADVERSE REACTIONS Multiple Sclerosis). There were no reports of congestive heart failure in either controlled trial. MS patients should be assessed for cardiac signs and symptoms by history, physical examination, ECG, and quantitative LVEF evaluation using appropriate methodology (ex. Echocardiogram, MUGA, MRI, etc.) prior to the start of mitoxantrone therapy. MS patients with baseline LVEF below the lower limit of normal should not be treated with mitoxantrone. Subsequent LVEF and ECG evaluations are recommended if signs or symptoms of congestive heart failure develop and prior to every dose administered to MS patients. Mitoxantrone should not be administered to MS patients who experience reduction in LVEF to below the lower limit of normal, to those who experience clinically significant reduction in LVEF, or to those who have received cumulative lifetime dose of 140 mg/m 2. MS patients should have yearly quantitative LVEF evaluation after stopping mitoxantrone to monitor for late-occurring cardiotoxicity. LeukemiaAcute congestive heart failure may occasionally occur in patients treated with mitoxantrone for ANLL. In first-line comparative trials of mitoxantrone cytarabine vs. daunorubicin cytarabine in adult patients with previously untreated ANLL, therapy was associated with congestive heart failure in 6.5% of patients on each arm. causal relationship between drug therapy and cardiac effects is difficult to establish in this setting since myocardial function is frequently depressed by the anemia, fever and infection, and hemorrhage that often accompany the underlying disease.Hormone-Refractory Prostate CancerFunctional cardiac changes such as decreases in LVEF and congestive heart failure may occur in patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer treated with mitoxantrone. In randomized comparative trial of mitoxantrone plus low-dose prednisone vs. low-dose prednisone, of 128 patients (5.5 %) treated with mitoxantrone had cardiac event defined as any decrease in LVEF below the normal range, congestive heart failure (n 3), or myocardial ischemia. Two patients had prior history of cardiac disease. The total mitoxantrone dose administered to patients with cardiac effects ranged from 48 to 212 mg/m 2. Among 112 patients evaluable for safety on the mitoxantrone hydrocortisone arm of the CALGB trial, 18 patients (19%) had reduction in cardiac function, patients (5%) had cardiac ischemia, and patients (2%) experienced pulmonary edema. The range of total mitoxantrone doses administered to these patients is not available.. Pregnancy. Mitoxantrone may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant. Mitoxantrone is considered potential human teratogen because of its mechanism of action and the developmental effects demonstrated by related agents. Treatment of pregnant rats during the organogenesis period of gestation was associated with fetal growth retardation at doses >= 0.1 mg/kg/day (0.01 times the recommended human dose on mg/m basis). When pregnant rabbits were treated during organogenesis, an increased incidence of premature delivery was observed at doses >= 0.1 mg/kg/day (0.01 times the recommended human dose on mg/m basis). No teratogenic effects were observed in these studies, but the maximum doses tested were well below the recommended human dose (0.02 and 0.05 times in rats and rabbits, respectively, on mg/m basis). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Women with multiple sclerosis who are biologically capable of becoming pregnant should have pregnancy test prior to each dose, and the results should be known prior to administration of the drug. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to the fetus. Secondary Leukemia. Mitoxantrone therapy increases the risk of developing secondary leukemia in patients with cancer and in patients with multiple sclerosis.In study of patients with prostate cancer, acute myeloid leukemia occurred in 1% (5/487) of mitoxantrone-treated patients versus no cases in the control group (0/496) not receiving mitoxantrone at 4.7 years follow-up. In prospective, open-label, tolerability and safety monitoring study of mitoxantrone treated MS patients followed for up to five years (median of 2.8 years), leukemia occurred in 0.6% (3/509) of patients. Publications describe leukemia risks of 0.25% to 2.8% in cohorts of patients with MS treated with mitoxantrone and followed for varying periods of time. This leukemia risk exceeds the risk of leukemia in the general population. The most commonly reported types were acute promyelocytic leukemia and acute myelocytic leukemia.In 1774 patients with breast cancer who received mitoxantrone concomitantly with other cytotoxic agents and radiotherapy, the cumulative risk of developing treatment-related acute myeloid leukemia was estimated as 1.1% and 1.6% at and 10 years, respectively. The second largest report involved 449 patients with breast cancer treated with mitoxantrone, usually in combination with radiotherapy and/or other cytotoxic agents. In this study, the cumulative probability of developing secondary leukemia was estimated to be 2.2% at years.Secondary acute myeloid leukemia has also been reported in cancer patients treated with anthracyclines. Mitoxantrone is an anthracenedione, related drug. The occurrence of secondary leukemia is more common when anthracyclines are given in combination with DNA-damaging antineoplastic agents, when patients have been heavily pretreated with cytotoxic drugs, or when doses of anthracyclines have been escalated.Symptoms of acute leukemia may include excessive bruising, bleeding, and recurrent infections.