2.1 Dosage

• Treatment with Palynziq should be managed by a healthcare provider experienced in the management of PKU.

• Obtain baseline blood phenylalanine concentration before initiating treatment.

Induction

The recommended initial induction dosage for Palynziq is 2.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks. Administer the initial dose under the supervision of a healthcare provider [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Titration

Titrate the Palynziq dosage in a step-wise manner, based on tolerability, over at least 5 weeks, to achieve a dosage of 20 mg subcutaneously once daily according to Table 1.

Maintenance

Therapeutic response may not be achieved until the patient is titrated to an effective maintenance dosage of Palynziq. Use the lowest effective and tolerated dosage of Palynziq.

Assess patient tolerability, blood phenylalanine concentrations, and dietary protein and phenylalanine intake throughout treatment.

Individualize the maintenance dosage to achieve blood phenylalanine control (blood phenylalanine concentrations less than or equal to 600 micromol/L), taking into account patient tolerability to Palynziq and dietary protein intake (see Table 1).

Maintain the Palynziq dosage at 20 mg once daily for at least 24 weeks. Consider increasing the Palynziq dosage to 40 mg once daily in patients who have been on 20 mg once daily continuously for at least 24 weeks without achieving blood phenylalanine control. Consider increasing the Palynziq dosage to a maximum of 60 mg once daily in patients who have been on 40 mg once daily continuously for at least 16 weeks without achieving blood phenylalanine control.

Discontinuation

Discontinue Palynziq in patients who have not achieved an adequate response after 16 weeks of continuous treatment with the maximum dosage of 60 mg once daily [see Clinical Studies (14)].

Dose Reduction for Low Phenylalanine Concentrations

During titration and maintenance of Palynziq treatment, patients may experience blood phenylalanine concentrations below 30 micromol/L. For blood phenylalanine concentrations below 30 micromol/L, the dosage of Palynziq may be reduced and/or dietary protein and phenylalanine intake may be modified to maintain blood phenylalanine concentrations within a clinically acceptable range and above 30 micromol/L [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Readministration Following Anaphylaxis

If the decision is made to readminister Palynziq after an anaphylaxis episode, administer the first dose following the anaphylaxis episode under the supervision of a healthcare provider equipped to manage anaphylaxis and closely observe the patient for at least 60 minutes following the dose. Subsequent dose titration should be based on patient tolerability and therapeutic response [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, instruct patients to take their next dose as scheduled and to not take two doses of Palynziq to make up for the missed dose.

2.2 Blood Phenylalanine Monitoring and Diet

After initiating treatment with Palynziq, obtain blood phenylalanine concentrations every 4 weeks until a maintenance dosage is established. After a maintenance dosage is established, periodic blood phenylalanine monitoring is recommended to assess blood phenylalanine control.

Monitor patients’ dietary protein and phenylalanine intake throughout treatment with Palynziq and counsel them on how to adjust their dietary intake, as needed, based on blood phenylalanine concentrations.

2.3 Premedication

For hypersensitivity reactions, consider premedication with an H1‑receptor antagonist, H2‑receptor antagonist, and/or antipyretic prior to Palynziq administration based upon individual patient tolerability [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.3)].

2.4 Administration Instructions

• Each prefilled syringe of Palynziq is intended for use as a single subcutaneous injection.
  
• Inspect Palynziq visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. Palynziq is a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to pale yellow solution. Discard if discolored, cloudy, or if particulate matter is present.
  
• Prior to first dose of Palynziq, prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine, and instruct the patient and observer (if applicable) on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, how to properly administer auto-injectable epinephrine, and to seek immediate medical care upon its use.
  
• Perform initial administration(s) and/or readministration after an anaphylaxis episode under the supervision of a healthcare provider equipped to manage anaphylaxis, and closely observe patients for at least 60 minutes following injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Prior to self-injection, confirm patient competency with self‑administration.
  
• Consider having an adult observer for patients who may need assistance in recognizing and managing anaphylaxis during Palynziq treatment. If an adult observer is needed, the observer should be present during and for at least 60 minutes after each Palynziq administration, should be able to administer auto-injectable epinephrine, and to call for emergency medical support upon its use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
  
• The recommended injection sites for Palynziq are: the front middle of thighs and the abdomen at least 2 inches (five centimeters) away from the navel. If a caregiver is giving the injection, the top of buttocks and the back of the upper arms are also appropriate injection sites.
  
• Do not inject Palynziq into moles, scars, birthmarks, bruises, rashes, or areas where the skin is hard, tender, red, damaged, burned, inflamed, or tattooed. Check the injection site for redness, swelling, or tenderness.
  
• Rotate sites for subcutaneous injections of Palynziq. If more than one injection is needed for a single dose of Palynziq, the injection sites should be at least 2 inches away from each other. The second injection site can be on the same part of the body or a different part of the body.

5.1 Anaphylaxis

In clinical trials of Palynziq with induction/titration/maintenance dosing, 29 out of 285 (10%) patients experienced a total of 42 anaphylaxis episodes [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)]. The exposure-adjusted rate of anaphylaxis was highest during the induction and titration phases (0.25 episodes/person‑years; 5% of patients with at least one episode) and decreased in the maintenance phase (0.05 episodes/person‑years; 7% of patients with at least one episode). Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis reported in clinical trials of Palynziq included syncope, hypotension, hypoxia, dyspnea, wheezing, chest discomfort/chest tightness, tachycardia, angioedema (swelling of face, lips, eyes, tongue), throat tightness, skin flushing, rash, urticaria, pruritus, and gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, nausea, diarrhea). In clinical trials of Palynziq, anaphylaxis generally occurred within 1 hour after injection (81%; 34/42 episodes); however, delayed episodes also occurred up to 48 hours after Palynziq administration. Most episodes of anaphylaxis occurred within the first year of dosing (69%, 29/42 episodes), but cases also occurred after one year of dosing and up to 1604 days (4.4 years) into treatment. Management of anaphylaxis in Palynziq clinical trials included: administration of auto-injectable epinephrine (48%; 20/42 episodes), corticosteroids (55%; 23/42 episodes), antihistamines (57%; 24/42 episodes), and/or oxygen (5%; 2/42 episodes). Twenty one out of the 29 (72%) patients who experienced anaphylaxis were rechallenged with Palynziq and 6 out of the 21 patients who were rechallenged (29%) had recurrence of anaphylaxis. All anaphylaxis episodes resolved without sequelae. 

Consider having an adult observer for patients who may need assistance in recognizing and managing anaphylaxis during Palynziq treatment. If an adult observer is needed, the observer should be present during and for at least 60 minutes after Palynziq administration, should be able to administer auto‑injectable epinephrine, and to call for emergency medical support upon its use.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with auto-injectable epinephrine. Prescribe auto‑injectable epinephrine to all patients receiving Palynziq and instruct patients to carry auto‑injectable epinephrine with them at all times during Palynziq treatment. Prior to the first dose, instruct the patient and observer (if applicable) on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, how to properly administer auto‑injectable epinephrine, and to seek immediate medical care upon its use. Consider the risks associated with auto-injectable epinephrine use when prescribing Palynziq. Refer to the auto‑injectable epinephrine prescribing information for complete information.

Consider the risks and benefits of readministering Palynziq following an episode of anaphylaxis. If the decision is made to readminister Palynziq, administer the first dose under the supervision of a healthcare provider equipped to manage anaphylaxis and closely observe the patient for at least 60 minutes following the dose. Subsequent Palynziq dose titration should be based on patient tolerability and therapeutic response [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Consider premedication with an H1-receptor antagonist, H2-receptor antagonist, and/or antipyretic prior to Palynziq administration based upon individual patient tolerability [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Palynziq is available only through a restricted program under a REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

5.2 Palynziq REMS Program

Palynziq is available only through a restricted program under a REMS called the Palynziq REMS, because of the risk of anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Notable requirements of the Palynziq REMS include the following:

• Prescribers must be certified with the program by enrolling in the program and completing training.
• Prescribers must prescribe auto‑injectable epinephrine with Palynziq.
• Pharmacies must be certified with the program and must dispense only to patients who are authorized to receive Palynziq.
• Patients must enroll in the program and be educated about the risk of anaphylaxis by a certified prescriber to ensure they understand the risks and benefits of treatment with Palynziq.
• Patients must have auto‑injectable epinephrine available at all times while taking Palynziq.

Further information, including a list of qualified pharmacies, is available at www.PALYNZIQREMS.com or by telephone 1‑855‑758‑REMS (1‑855‑758‑7367).

5.3 Other Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions, other than anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)], have been reported in 204 out of 285 (72%) patients treated with Palynziq. The exposure adjusted rate of other hypersensitivity reactions was highest during the induction and titration phases (4.3 episodes/person-year; 50% of patients with at least one adverse reaction) and decreased in the maintenance phase (1.3 episodes/person-year; 61% of patients with at least one adverse reaction).

Consider premedication with an H1‑receptor antagonist, H2‑receptor antagonist, and/or antipyretic prior to Palynziq administration based upon individual patient tolerability [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Management of hypersensitivity reactions should be based on the severity of the reaction, recurrence of the reaction, and the clinical judgement of the healthcare provider, and may include dosage adjustment, temporary drug interruption, or treatment with antihistamines, antipyretics, and/or corticosteroids.

6.1 Clinical Trial Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The data described below reflect a total treatment exposure of 789 patient-years in 285 patients who received Palynziq in an induction/titration/maintenance regimen in clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Of the 285 patients, 229 patients were exposed to Palynziq for 24 weeks, 209 patients were exposed for 1 year, 181 patients were exposed for 2 years, and 160 patients were exposed for 3 years or longer. The patient population was evenly distributed between male and female patients, the mean age was 29 years (range: 16 to 56 years), and 98% of patients were White.

The most common adverse reactions (at least 20% of patients in either treatment phase) were injection site reactions, arthralgia, hypersensitivity reactions, headache, generalized skin reactions lasting at least 14 days, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, cough, oropharyngeal pain, pruritus, diarrhea, nasal congestion, fatigue, dizziness, and anxiety.

Of the 285 patients exposed to Palynziq in an induction/titration/maintenance regimen in clinical trials, 44 (15%) patients discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions. The most common adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation were hypersensitivity reactions (6% of patients) including anaphylaxis (3% of patients), angioedema (1% of patients), arthralgia (4% of patients), generalized skin reactions lasting at least 14 days (2% of patients), and injection site reactions (1% of patients).

The most common adverse reactions leading to dosage reduction were arthralgia (15% of patients), hypersensitivity reactions (9% of patients), injection site reactions (4% of patients), alopecia (3% of patients), and generalized skin reactions lasting at least 14 days (2% of patients).

The most common adverse reactions leading to temporary drug interruption were hypersensitivity reactions (14% of patients), arthralgia (13% of patients), anaphylaxis (4% of patients), and injection site reactions (4% of patients).

Table 2 lists adverse reactions reported in at least 15% of patients treated with Palynziq in an induction/titration/maintenance dosage regimen in clinical trials, and illustrates the adverse reaction rates over time by treatment phase. Table 3 lists laboratory abnormalities reported in at least 10% of patients treated with Palynziq in an induction/titration/maintenance dosage regimen in clinical trials.

For these analyses, the induction/titration phase was defined as the time prior to reaching a stable dose (completing an 8‑week phase at the same dose level). Once a stable dosage was reached, patients were considered to be in the maintenance phase thereafter. Safety data for patients who reached the maintenance phase are included within either the induction/titration or maintenance phases depending on the onset date of the adverse reaction. Safety data for patients who did not reach the maintenance phase are included within the induction/titration phase. The maintenance phase includes data for patients who were previously on Palynziq and transitioned to placebo during the randomized withdrawal period of Study 302 [see Clinical Studies (14)].

Rates of adverse reactions (adjusted for duration of exposure) generally decreased over time and for some stayed relatively stable. In the maintenance phase, the rate of adverse reactions (adjusted for duration of exposure) in patients who reached the maintenance phase was comparable across dosages evaluated. The types and rate of adverse reactions reported during the maintenance phase in patients who received 20 mg once daily, 40 mg once daily, and 60 mg once daily were similar. During long-term treatment (greater than 36 months), the exposure-adjusted rates of adverse reactions decreased.

Rates of laboratory abnormalities (adjusted for duration of exposure) stayed relatively stable over time, except for complement C4 below lower limit of normal (LLN) and hs-CRP above 0.287 mg/dL over a 6 month period (both decreased over time) and hypophenylalaninemia (blood phenylalanine concentration below 30 micromol/L) on a single measurement (increased over time). There were no dose‑related trends in type or rate of laboratory abnormalities (adjusted for duration of exposure) reported during the maintenance phase in patients receiving 20 mg once daily, 40 mg once daily, or 60 mg once daily.

LLN – lower limit of normal

ULN – upper limit of normal

Hs – high sensitivity

Description of Selected Adverse Reactions

Arthralgia

In clinical trials, 245 out of 285 (86%) patients experienced episodes consistent with arthralgia (includes back pain, musculoskeletal pain, pain in extremity, and neck pain).

Arthralgia episodes were more frequent during the induction/titration phase (7.4 episodes/patient-year) and decreased over time (1.4 episodes/patient-year in the maintenance phase).

Forty-four out of 285 (15%) patients had one episode of arthralgia, 32 (11%) patients had 2 episodes of arthralgia, 18 (6%) had 3 episodes of arthralgia, and 146 (51%) had 4 or more episodes of arthralgia. Arthralgia occurred as early as after the first dose of Palynziq and occurred at any time during treatment. The mean duration of arthralgia was 16 days (median: 3 days, range: 1 to 936 days), and 19% of arthralgia episodes had a duration of at least 14 days. Severe arthralgia (severe pain limiting self-care activities of daily living) was reported by 11 (4%) patients. In addition to arthralgia, other joint-related signs and symptoms reported were: joint swelling (24 patients; 8%), joint stiffness (22 patients; 8%), and musculoskeletal stiffness (20 patients; 7%). Arthralgia episodes were managed with medications (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, and acetaminophen), Palynziq dosage reduction (4% of episodes), Palynziq interruption (4% of episodes), or Palynziq withdrawal (0.6% of episodes). 97% of arthralgia episodes were reported as resolved at the time of last observation (up to 77 months of follow‑up).

Injection Site Reactions

Injection site reactions were reported as early as after the first dose of Palynziq and occurred at any time during treatment. Injection site reactions were more frequent during the induction/titration phase (21 episodes/patient-years) and decreased over time (3 episodes/patient‑years in the maintenance phase). The mean duration of injection site reaction was 10 days (median: 2 days, range: 1 to 1612 days), and 8% of injection site reactions had a duration of at least 14 days. 99% of injection site reactions were reported as resolved at the time of last observation (up to 77 months of follow‑up).

Three injection site reactions consistent with granulomatous skin lesions were reported (each reaction occurring in one patient): granulomatous dermatitis (occurred after 464 days of Palynziq treatment and lasted 16 days), xanthogranuloma (occurred after 378 days of Palynziq treatment and lasted 638 days) was treated with a topical antihistamine, corticosteroid, and Palynziq treatment was discontinued, and necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (occurred after 281 days of Palynziq treatment and lasted 281 days). Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum was treated with steroid injections and complicated by Pseudomonas infection. All three injection site reactions resolved.

One patient reported soft tissue infection (occurred after 196 days of Palynziq treatment and lasted 8 days) associated with mesenteric panniculitis treated with antibiotics, which resulted in treatment discontinuation.

Generalized Skin Reactions (not limited to the injection site) Lasting at Least 14 Days

In clinical trials, 134 out of 285 (47%) patients treated with Palynziq experienced generalized skin reactions (not limited to the injection site) lasting at least 14 days. Mean duration of these reactions was 63 days (median: 37 days; range: 14 to 638 days). Generalized skin reactions were more frequent during the induction/titration phase (0.7 episodes/patient‑years), and decreased over time (0.3 episodes/patient-years in the maintenance phase).

The mean time from first dose of Palynziq to onset of skin reactions was 373 days (median: 213 days; range: 2 to 1970 days). 5% of these reactions persisted at least 180 days, and 86% of these reactions were reported as resolved at the time of last observation (up to 77 months of follow‑up).

Angioedema

In clinical trials, 22 out of 285 (8%) patients experienced 45 episodes of angioedema (symptoms included: pharyngeal edema, swollen tongue, lip swelling, mouth swelling, eyelid edema and face edema) occurring independent of anaphylaxis. Angioedema (included under Hypersensitivity in Table 2) was more frequent during the induction/titration phase (0.14 episodes/patient-year) and decreased over time (0.04 episodes/patient-year in the maintenance phase). Three patients discontinued treatment. All episodes resolved. Angioedema can present as a symptom of anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Serum Sickness

In clinical trials, serum sickness was reported in 7 out of 285 (2%) patients. Serum sickness episodes were more frequent during the induction/titration phase (0.04 episodes/patient-year) and decreased over time (less than 0.01 episodes/patient-year during the maintenance phase). All serum sickness reactions resolved without sequelae (duration of serum sickness ranged from 1 to 8 days). Out of the 7 patients who experienced serum sickness, 5 patients continued treatment without a recurrence, and managed serum sickness with drug interruption, dosage reduction and/or concomitant medication. Two patients discontinued treatment.

6.2 Immunogenicity

As with all therapeutic proteins, there is potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors, including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to Palynziq in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other products may be misleading.

All patients treated with Palynziq developed a sustained total anti-drug antibody (TAb) response with a majority of patients (91%; N = 235/258) developing that response by Week 4 of treatment. Mean TAb titers peaked 2 weeks after Palynziq initiation and remained elevated throughout treatment (greater than 3 years after treatment initiation). Anti-phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) IgM antibodies were detected in a majority of patients (98%; N = 265/270) by 2 months after treatment initiation, with incidence declining over time to 67% at 36 months (N = 114/171). Anti‑PAL IgG antibodies were detected in almost all patients (N = 226/227) by 4 months after treatment initiation. Mean anti-PAL IgM and IgG titers peaked at approximately 3 and 6 months, respectively, after treatment initiation and remained elevated throughout treatment (greater than 3 years after treatment initiation). Drug-induced anti-PEG IgM and IgG antibodies were detected in the majority of patients (98%; N = 277/284 for IgM; and 278/284 for IgG) with mean titers for both peaking at 1 to 3 months after treatment initiation [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Neutralizing antibodies (NAb) capable of inhibiting PAL enzyme activity were detected on at least one measurement in the majority of patients (89%; N = 253/284) over time. Mean NAb titers peaked and reached a plateau at 16 to 20 weeks of treatment and then remained present throughout treatment (greater than 3 years after treatment initiation).

Twenty-seven of 29 patients who had anaphylaxis were tested for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE antibodies, which recognize the PEGylated protein product. Of the 27 patients tested for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE antibodies, 26 patients tested negative. The one patient who tested positive for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE antibodies on the screening test did not have sufficient sample to confirm IgE positivity. This patient tested negative for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE at routine visits prior to and after the anaphylaxis episode (not at times of anaphylaxis). Sixty‑seven of 285 patients in clinical trials were tested for both anti‑PAL IgE antibodies, which recognize the recombinant PAL protein, and for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE antibodies during routine study visits (not at times of anaphylaxis episodes) or during additional visits for hypersensitivity reactions. Of those 67 patients, 5 (8%) tested positive at least once for anti‑PAL IgE antibodies but negative for anti‑pegvaliase‑pqpz IgE antibodies.

The highest frequency of hypersensitivity reactions (consistent with a Type III immune complex-mediated hypersensitivity mechanism) occurred within the first 6 months of Palynziq treatment when the mean circulating immune complex (CIC) concentrations were at their highest and mean complement C3 and C4 concentrations were at their lowest. Mean CIC concentrations decreased and complement levels increased over time as the exposure-adjusted rate of hypersensitivity reactions decreased. IgG and IgM CIC concentrations were above the upper limit of normal in 63% (N = 164/259) and 42% of patients (N = 109/259), respectively, at 12 weeks of Palynziq treatment and returned towards baseline with long-term treatment (greater than 3 years after treatment initiation). 61% of patients (N = 110/180) had complement C3 concentrations less than lower limit of normal (LLN) at 6 months after treatment initiation and 38% of patients (N = 94/248) had complement C4 concentrations less than LLN at 3 months after treatment initiation. The incidence of low complement C3 and C4 concentrations decreased over time, but approximately 35% (N = 34/96) and 12% (N = 11/96) of patients had low C3 and C4 concentrations, respectively, at 36 months after treatment initiation.

Higher antibody responses for all antibody analytes, including NAb, were associated with lower mean trough pegvaliase‑pqpz concentrations and with higher blood phenylalanine concentrations. Hypersensitivity reactions occurred more frequently in patients with higher antibody titers for some but not all antibody analytes. Patients with higher mean change in IgG CIC concentrations from pre-treatment baseline tended to have higher discontinuation rates than patients with lower mean change in IgG CIC concentrations. Mean antibody titers for anti‑PAL IgG and IgM, TAb, and NAb remained relatively stable with long-term treatment.

7.1 Effect of Palynziq on Other PEGylated Products

In a single dose study of Palynziq in adult patients with PKU, two patients receiving concomitant injections of medroxyprogesterone acetate suspension (a formulation containing PEG 3350) experienced a hypersensitivity reaction. One of the two patients experienced a hypersensitivity reaction on day 15 after a single Palynziq dosage of 0.67 mg within 15 minutes following medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension, and subsequently experienced anaphylaxis on day 89 within 30 minutes after the next dose of medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension. The other patient experienced a hypersensitivity reaction on day 40 after a single Palynziq dosage of 0.08 mg within 10 minutes following medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension. Both patients had high anti‑PEG IgG antibody titers at or around the time of the hypersensitivity reactions.

In Palynziq clinical trials, the majority of patients developed anti‑PEG IgM and IgG antibodies after treatment with Palynziq [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. The clinical effects of concomitant treatment with different PEGylated products is unknown. Monitor patients treated with Palynziq and concomitantly with other PEGylated products for hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis.

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Based on findings in studies of pregnant animals without PKU treated with pegvaliase-pqpz, Palynziq may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Limited available data with pegvaliase-pqpz use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform a drug-associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. There are risks to the fetus associated with poorly controlled phenylalanine concentrations in women with PKU during pregnancy including increased risk for miscarriage, major birth defects (including microcephaly, major cardiac malformations), intrauterine fetal growth retardation, and future intellectual disability with low IQ; therefore, phenylalanine concentrations should be closely monitored in women with PKU during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations and Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risks to the fetus.

A reproduction study in pregnant rabbits treated with pegvaliase‑pqpz demonstrated a high incidence of fetal malformations throughout the skeletal system, and in kidneys, lungs, and eyes. Embryo‑fetal toxicity (increased resorptions and reduced fetal weight) was also observed. These effects occurred at 5 times the maximum recommended daily dose and were associated with strong signs of maternal toxicity, including marked reductions in weight gain and food consumption, and death. A reproduction study in pregnant rats treated with pegvaliase‑pqpz demonstrated an increase in skeletal variations, with no malformations observed. The effects in rats occurred at 2.8 times the maximum recommended daily dose. In a pre-/post-natal development study in rats, pegvaliase‑pqpz produced reduced survival of offspring during lactation, decreases in pup weight and litter size, and delayed sexual maturation of offspring when administered daily at 13 times the maximum recommended daily dose. The effects on rat embryo‑fetal and post-natal development were also associated with maternal toxicity.

All pregnancies have a background risk of major birth defects, pregnancy loss, or other adverse pregnancy outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in pregnant women with PKU who maintain blood phenylalanine concentrations greater than 600 micromol/L during pregnancy is greater than the corresponding background risk for pregnant women without PKU.

There is a pregnancy surveillance program for Palynziq. If Palynziq is administered during pregnancy, or if a patient becomes pregnant while receiving Palynziq or within one month following the last dose of Palynziq, healthcare providers should report Palynziq exposure by calling 1-866-906-6100.

Clinical Considerations

Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo-Fetal Risk

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 [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Dose Adjustments During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period

Phenylalanine concentrations below 30 micromol/L in pregnant women with PKU treated with Palynziq may be associated with adverse fetal outcomes. Monitor blood phenylalanine concentrations during pregnancy and adjust the dosage of Palynziq or modify dietary protein and phenylalanine intake to avoid blood phenylalanine concentrations below 30 micromol/L [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Data

Human Data

Uncontrolled Maternal PKU: Available data from the Maternal Phenylketonuria Collaborative Study on 468 pregnancies and 331 live births in pregnant women with PKU demonstrated that uncontrolled phenylalanine concentrations above 600 micromol/L are associated with an increased risk for miscarriage, major birth defects (including microcephaly, major cardiac malformations), intrauterine fetal growth retardation, and future intellectual disability with low IQ.

Limited data from case reports of Palynziq use in pregnant women are insufficient to determine a drug‑associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes.

Animal Data

All developmental toxicity studies were conducted in animals (rats and rabbits) without PKU, in which treatment with pegvaliase-pqpz produced a dose-dependent reduction in maternal blood phenylalanine concentrations. At doses that produced maternal toxicity and/or effects on embryo-fetal development, the maternal plasma phenylalanine concentrations were markedly reduced compared to the control group. The contribution of maternal phenylalanine depletion to the incidence of embryo‑fetal developmental effects was not evaluated.

Subcutaneous administration of 5 mg/kg/day pegvaliase‑pqpz (5 times the maximum recommended daily dose based on bodyweight [mg/kg]) in pregnant rabbits during the period of organogenesis produced embryo‑lethality (increased resorptions), marked reduction in fetal weight, and fetal malformations. The malformations included multiple external abnormalities of the head, body and limbs, multiple soft tissue malformations (reduced size or absence of kidneys, diaphragmatic hernia, corneal opacity, discoloration or reduced size of eyes, and reduced size of lungs) and multiple skeletal malformations of the craniofacial bones, vertebrae, sternebrae, ribs, pelvis, limbs, and digits. An increase in variations and delayed ossification was also observed in all skeletal regions. The adverse developmental effects were associated with maternal toxicity, as indicated by marked impairment of weight gain and food consumption. Deaths associated with weight loss and abortion occurred in 8% of the pregnant rabbits treated with 5 mg/kg/day pegvaliase‑pqpz.

Subcutaneous administration of 2 mg/kg/day pegvaliase‑pqpz (2 times the maximum recommended daily dose based on bodyweight [mg/kg]) in pregnant rabbits had no adverse effects on embryo-fetal development. Systemic exposure to pegvaliase‑pqpz was detected in fetuses from rabbits treated with 2 or 5 mg/kg/day.

Pegvaliase‑pqpz increased fetal alterations when administered daily in pregnant rats at doses of 8 mg/kg subcutaneously and higher (2.8 times the human steady-state area under the curve [AUC] at the maximum recommended daily dose) during a 28‑day premating period, mating, and through the period of organogenesis. The fetal alterations were limited to skeletal variations such as cervical ribs, bifid centra of lumbar and thoracic vertebrae, and incomplete ossification of squamosal bones, frontal bones, lumbar vertebra arch, and ribs. Daily administration of 20 mg/kg subcutaneously (13 times the human steady-state AUC at the recommended maximum daily dose) to pregnant rats produced reductions in litter sizes and fetal weights, which was associated with maternal toxicity (decreased body weight, ovarian weight, and food consumption). The decrease in litter sizes at 20 mg/kg subcutaneously was secondary to reductions in corpora lutea and implantations. Systemic exposure to pegvaliase‑pqpz was detected in fetuses from rats treated with 20 mg/kg of pegvaliase‑pqpz (13 times the human steady-state AUC at the recommended maximum daily dose). Subcutaneous administration of 2 mg/kg/day pegvaliase‑pqpz (less than the human steady state AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose) in pregnant rats had no adverse effects on embryo‑fetal development.

Pegvaliase-pqpz decreased pup weight, litter size, and survival of offspring during lactation, and delayed sexual maturation of offspring when administered daily in rats at 20 mg/kg subcutaneously (13 times the human steady-state AUC at the recommended maximum daily dose), with dosing starting before mating and continuing through lactation. The effects in offspring were associated with maternal toxicity. No effects in offspring were observed at 8 mg/kg/day subcutaneously (2.8 times the human steady-state AUC at the recommended maximum daily dose). A follow-up study of the same design evaluated additional parameters of physical and neurobehavioral development in offsprings; No effects of pegvaliase‑pqpz were noted at the maternal NOAEL dose of 8 mg/kg/day.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of pegvaliase-pqpz in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. A pre-/post-natal study in rats showed that pegvaliase-pqpz is present in rat milk and that administration of pegvaliase-pqpz during lactation decreased pup weight and survival [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. However, systemic absorption of pegvaliase-pqpz was not detected in the rat pups. Palynziq may cause low phenylalanine concentrations in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the clinical need for Palynziq treatment and any potential adverse effect on the breastfed infant from Palynziq or from the underlying condition (see Clinical Considerations).

Clinical Considerations

Monitor blood phenylalanine concentrations in breastfeeding women treated with Palynziq.

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of Palynziq in pediatric patients have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of Palynziq did not include patients aged 65 years and older.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Pegvaliase-pqpz is a PEGylated phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzyme that converts phenylalanine to ammonia and trans‑cinnamic acid. It substitutes for the deficient phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme activity in patients with PKU and reduces blood phenylalanine concentrations.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Palynziq treatment of adult patients with PKU resulted in the reduction of blood phenylalanine concentrations from pre-treatment baseline [see Clinical Studies (14)]. The reduction of blood phenylalanine concentrations diminished with decreased pegvaliase‑pqpz plasma concentrations.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of pegvaliase‑pqpz exhibit high inter-patient and intra-patient variability due to the heterogeneity of the immune response in adult patients with PKU. Higher antibody titers correlated with higher apparent clearance of pegvaliase‑pqpz. In the first eight weeks of induction/titration treatment, plasma pegvaliase‑pqpz concentrations were low to not measurable. At steady state during maintenance treatment with Palynziq 20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg subcutaneously once daily, the mean ± SD (range) plasma trough pegvaliase‑pqpz concentrations were: 11.2 ± 9.0 (0.21 to 29.6) mg/L, 10.4 ± 12.7 (0.18 to 43.1) mg/L and 4.8 ± 10.7 (0 to 39.7) mg/L, respectively. The following pharmacokinetic parameters were observed in adult patients with PKU treated with Palynziq at maintenance dosages of 20 mg once daily and 40 mg once daily.

Absorption

The median Tmax was approximately 8 hours. The mean ± SD (range) peak concentration (Cmax) at steady state was: 14.0 ± 16.3 (0.26 to 68.5) mg/L and 16.7 ± 19.5 (0.24 to 63.8) mg/L, respectively.

Distribution

The mean ± SD (range) apparent volume of distribution was 26.4 ± 64.8 (1.8 to 241) L and 22.2 ± 19.7 (3.1 to 49.5) L, respectively.

Elimination

The mean ± SD (range) apparent clearance at steady state was 0.39 ± 0.87 (0.018 to 3.66) L/h and 1.25 ± 2.46 (0.034 to 8.88) L/h, respectively. The mean ± SD (range) half-life was 47 ± 42 (14 to 132) hours and 60 ± 45 (14 to 127) hours, respectively.

Metabolism

The metabolism of phenylalanine ammonia lyase is expected to occur via catabolic pathways and be degraded into small peptides and amino acids.

Excretion

The route of elimination of pegvaliase‑pqpz has not been studied in humans.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenicity and genotoxicity studies have not been performed with pegvaliase‑pqpz. Based on its mechanism of action, pegvaliase‑pqpz is not expected to be tumorigenic.

Pegvaliase-pqpz produced impaired fertility in female rats at 20 mg/kg/day subcutaneously (13 times the human steady-state AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose), as indicated by decreases in corpora lutea, implantations, and litter size. These effects were associated with maternal toxicity (decreased body weight, ovarian weight, and food consumption). No effects on mating or fertility were observed in female rats with 8 mg/kg/day subcutaneously (2.8 times the human steady-state AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose) or in male rats with 20 mg/kg/day subcutaneously.

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

In rats without PKU treated with pegvaliase-pqpz, dose-dependent vacuolation in multiple organs and tissues was observed in the 4‑ and 26‑week repeat dose toxicity studies at doses of 8 mg/kg subcutaneously or greater administered twice weekly (less than the human steady state AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose). Vacuolation occurred in renal tubule cells and in histiocytic cells of the liver, spleen, testes, adrenal cortex, mesenteric lymph node, and mandibular lymph node. Vacuolation in histiocytes of the affected organs and tissues persisted after cessation of treatment. The vacuolation observed in these studies was not associated with organ‑related toxicities as determined by clinical chemistry/urinalysis and histopathological examination. The clinical significance of these findings and functional consequences are unknown.

In the 39‑week repeat dose toxicity study in monkeys, pegvaliase-pqpz 3 mg/kg subcutaneously twice weekly (2 times the human steady state AUC at the maximum recommended daily dose) produced systemic arteritis involving small arteries and arterioles in a wide range of organs and tissues (kidney, urinary bladder, pancreas, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, colon, rectum, lung, heart, sciatic nerve, lacrimal gland, mandibular lymph node, epididymis, seminal vesicle, ovary, uterus, cervix, and vagina) and in subcutaneous injection sites. Arteritis was likely due to the immune-mediated response (e.g., immune complex deposition in blood vessels) associated with chronic administration of a foreign protein to the animals. The incidence and severity of systemic arteritis was dose-dependent. The vascular inflammation observed in this study was not associated with organ related toxicities as determined by clinical pathology parameters (hematology, clinical chemistry, and urinalysis) and histopathological examination.

Studies of longer duration in rats and monkeys treated with pegvaliase‑pqpz have not been conducted.