1.1 Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in Patients with Active Duodenal Ulcer or History of Duodenal Ulcer Disease

PYLERA in combination with omeprazole are indicated for the treatment of patients with Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or history of within the past 5 years) to eradicate H. pylori. The eradication of Helicobacter pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence.

1.2 Usage

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of PYLERA and other antibacterial drugs, PYLERA should be used to treat only indicated infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

4.1 Methoxyflurane

Do not administer methoxyflurane to patients taking PYLERA. The concurrent use of tetracycline hydrochloride, a component of PYLERA, with methoxyflurane has been reported to result in fatal renal toxicity [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

4.2 Disulfiram

PYLERA is contraindicated in patients who have taken disulfiram within the last two weeks. Psychotic reactions have been reported in alcoholic patients who are using metronidazole, a component of PYLERA, and disulfiram concurrently [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].

4.3 Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages or other products containing propylene glycol should not be consumed during and for at least 3 days after therapy with PYLERA. A disulfiram-like reaction (abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing) may occur due to the interaction between alcohol or propylene glycol and metronidazole, a component of PYLERA [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

4.4 Cockayne Syndrome

PYLERA is contraindicated in patients with Cockayne syndrome. Severe irreversible hepatotoxicity/acute liver failure with fatal outcomes have been reported after initiation of metronidazole in patients with Cockayne syndrome [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].

4.5 Severe Renal Impairment

PYLERA is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. The antianabolic action of the tetracyclines may cause an increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)]. In patients with significantly impaired renal function, higher serum concentrations of tetracyclines may lead to azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, and acidosis.

4.6 Pregnancy

PYLERA is contraindicated during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

4.7 Hypersensitivity Reactions

PYLERA is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g. urticaria, erythematous rash, flushing, and fever) to bismuth subcitrate potassium, metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives, or tetracycline [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].

5.1 Potential for Carcinogenicity

Metronidazole, a component of PYLERA, has been shown to be carcinogenic in mice and rats. Tumors affecting the liver, lungs, mammary and lymphatic tissues have been detected in several studies of metronidazole in rats and mice, but not hamsters [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13)]. It is unknown whether metronidazole is associated with carcinogenicity in humans.

5.2 Fetal Toxicity

Tetracycline can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Based on animal data, use of drugs of the tetracycline class during the second and third trimester of pregnancy can cause permanent discoloration of the teeth (yellow-gray brown) and possibly inhibit bone development [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Administration of oral tetracycline to pregnant rats at various doses resulted in yellow fluorescence in teeth and bones in the newborn animals. If PYLERA is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking PYLERA, advise the patient of the potential risk to the fetus [see Contraindications (4.6) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

5.3 Maternal Toxicity

Tetracycline, a component of PYLERA, administered during pregnancy at high doses (> 2 g IV) was associated with rare but serious cases of maternal hepatotoxicity. This syndrome may result in stillborn or premature birth due to maternal pathology [see Contraindications (4.6) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

5.4 Tooth Enamel Discoloration and Hypoplasia

The use of drugs of the tetracycline class during tooth development (last half of pregnancy, infancy, and childhood to the age of 8 years) may cause permanent discoloration of the teeth (yellow-gray-brown). This adverse reaction is more common during long-term use of the drug, but has been observed following repeated short-term courses. Enamel hypoplasia has also been reported. PYLERA, therefore, should not be used in this age group unless other drugs are not likely to be effective or are contraindicated [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

5.5 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) have been reported with the use of metronidazole. Symptoms can be serious and potentially life threatening. If symptoms or signs of SCARs develop, discontinue PYLERA capsules immediately and institute appropriate therapy.

5.6 Central and Peripheral Nervous System Effects

5.7 Development of Potential for Microbial Overgrowth

Known or previously unrecognized candidiasis may present more prominent symptoms during therapy with metronidazole and requires treatment with an antifungal agent. As with other antibacterial drugs, use of tetracycline hydrochloride may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, discontinue PYLERA and institute appropriate therapy.

5.8 Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity, manifested by an exaggerated sunburn reaction, has been observed in patients taking tetracycline [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)]. Patients apt to be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light should be advised that this reaction can occur with tetracycline drugs. Instruct patients taking PYLERA to avoid exposure to the sun or sun lamps. Discontinue treatment at the first evidence of skin erythema.

5.9 Darkening of the Tongue and/or Black Stool

Bismuth subcitrate potassium may cause temporary and harmless darkening of the tongue and/or black stools, generally reversible within several days after treatment is stopped [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Stool darkening should not be confused with melena.

5.10 Use in Patients with Blood Dyscrasias

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole, and should be used with care in patients with evidence of or history of blood dyscrasia. A mild leukopenia has been observed during its administration; however, no persistent hematologic abnormalities attributable to metronidazole have been observed in clinical studies. Total and differential leukocyte counts are recommended before and after therapy [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].

5.11 Increased Drug Plasma Concentrations in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment metabolize metronidazole slowly, with resultant accumulation of metronidazole in the plasma. Patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment should be monitored for metronidazole associated adverse events. PYLERA is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

5.12 Laboratory Test Interactions

Bismuth absorbs x-rays and may interfere with x-ray diagnostic procedures of the gastrointestinal tract.

Bismuth subcitrate potassium may cause a temporary and harmless darkening of the stool. However, this change does not interfere with standard tests for occult blood.

Metronidazole may interfere with certain types of determinations of serum chemistry values, such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), triglycerides, and hexokinase glucose. Values of zero may be observed. All of the assays in which interference has been reported involve enzymatic coupling of the assay to oxidation-reduction of nicotinamide (NAD+ <=> NADH). Interference is due to the similarity in absorbance peaks of NADH (340 nm) and metronidazole (322 nm) at pH 7.

5.13 Development of Drug Resistant Bacteria

Prescribing PYLERA in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

5.14 Drug Interactions

6.1 Clinical Trials 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 safety of PYLERA plus omeprazole (OBMT) to eradicate Helicobacter pylori was assessed in an open-label, randomized, active-controlled clinical trial conducted in North America. The duration of treatment was 10 days with 147 patients exposed to PYLERA plus omeprazole (OBMT) and 152 exposed to control, consisting of omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (OAC). The age of the population in the study ranged from 18 to 75 years, with 59% male patients and 59% Caucasian patients.

Adverse drug reactions were reported in 58% of patients in the OBMT group and 59% of patients in the OAC group. There were no adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of the study during the clinical trial.

Adverse reactions with an incidence of ≥ 5% in OBMT group include abnormal feces, diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Adverse drug reactions with an incidence of ≥ 5% in OAC group include diarrhea, dysgeusia, dyspepsia, nausea and headache.

Table 2 lists adverse reactions with an incidence of ≥ 1%, in either group (OBMT vs OAC) and in order of decreasing incidence for the OBMT group.

Adverse reactions with an incidence of <1% for OBMT group are: back pain, vomiting, tongue darkening [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)], anxiety, gastritis, gastroenteritis, myalgia, chest pain, increased appetite, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, malaise, somnolence, tachycardia, duodenal ulcer, visual disturbance, weight increased.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

Additionally, the following adverse reactions, presented by system organ class in alphabetical order, have been identified during post approval use of PYLERA. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

• Gastrointestinal disorders: abdominal distention, eructation, flatulence
• General disorders and administration site conditions: chest discomfort, fatigue
• Infections and infestations: candidiasis, pseudomembranous colitis (Clostridium difficile colitis)
• Nervous Systems: peripheral neuropathy
• Skin and subcutaneous disorders: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, DRESS syndrome (drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]

6.3 Other Important Adverse Reactions from Labeling for the Individual Components of PYLERA

7.1 Methoxyflurane

Do not administer methoxyflurane to patients taking PYLERA. The concurrent use of tetracycline hydrochloride, a component of PYLERA, with methoxyflurane has been reported to result in fatal renal toxicity [see Contraindications (4.1)].

7.2 Disulfiram

Psychotic reactions have been reported in alcoholic patients who are using metronidazole, a component of PYLERA and disulfiram concurrently. PYLERA should not be given to patients who have taken disulfiram within the last two weeks [see Contraindications (4.2)].

7.3 Alcohol

Consumption of alcoholic beverages or administration of other products containing propylene glycol during treatment with PYLERA and for at least 3 days afterwards may cause a disulfiram-like reaction (abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing) due to the interaction between alcohol or propylene glycol and metronidazole, a component of PYLERA. Discontinue alcoholic beverage or other products containing propylene glycol during and for at least 3 days after therapy with PYLERA [see Contraindications (4.3)].

7.4 Oral Contraceptives

Concurrent use of PYLERA with oral contraceptive may make oral contraceptives less effective due to an interaction with the tetracycline component of PYLERA. Breakthrough bleeding has been reported. Women of child-bearing potential should use a different or additional form of contraception while taking PYLERA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

7.5 Anticoagulants

PYLERA may alter the anticoagulant effects of warfarin and other oral coumarin anticoagulants. Metronidazole has been reported to potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, and other oral coumarin anticoagulants, resulting in a prolongation of prothrombin time. Tetracycline has been shown to depress plasma prothrombin activity. Prothrombin time, International Normalized Ratio (INR), or other suitable anticoagulation tests should be closely monitored if PYLERA is administered concomitantly with warfarin. Patients should also be monitored for evidence of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

7.6 Lithium

In patients stabilized on relatively high doses of lithium, short-term use of PYLERA may cause elevation of serum lithium concentrations and signs of lithium toxicity due to the interaction between metronidazole and lithium. Serum lithium and serum creatinine concentrations should be monitored several days after beginning treatment with PYLERA to detect any increase that may precede clinical symptoms of lithium toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

7.7 Antacids, Multivitamins, or Dairy Products

The absorption of PYLERA may be reduced if administered with antacids containing aluminium, calcium, or magnesium; preparations containing iron, zinc, or sodium bicarbonate; or milk or dairy products due to the interaction between these products and tetracycline. These products should not be consumed concomitantly with PYLERA. However, the clinical significance of reduced tetracycline systemic exposure is unknown as the relative contribution of systemic versus local antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori has not been established.

7.8 Busulfan

Metronidazole has been reported to increase plasma concentrations of busulfan, which can result in an increased risk for serious busulfan toxicity. Do not administer PYLERA concomitantly with busulfan unless the benefit outweighs the risk. If no therapeutic alternatives to PYLERA are available, and concomitant administration with busulfan is medically needed, monitor for busulfan toxicity and busulfan plasma concentrations and adjust the busulfan dose accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

7.9 Inhibitors of CYP450 liver enzymes

The simultaneous administration of PYLERA and drugs that inhibit microsomal liver enzymes, such as cimetidine, may result in a prolonged half-life and decreased plasma clearance of metronidazole.

7.10 Inducers of CYP450 liver enzymes

The simultaneous administration of PYLERA and drugs that induce microsomal liver enzymes, such as phenytoin or phenobarbital, may accelerate the elimination of metronidazole, resulting in reduced plasma concentrations of metronidazole. Impaired clearance of phenytoin has also been reported in this situation. Monitor phenytoin concentrations during treatment with PYLERA.

8.1 Pregnancy

8.2 Lactation

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of PYLERA in pediatric patients infected with Helicobacter pylori have not been established.

Tetracycline use in children may cause permanent discoloration of the teeth. Enamel hypoplasia has also been reported. PYLERA should not be used in children up to 8 years of age [see Warnings and Precaution (5.4)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of PYLERA did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, elderly patients may have a greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and concomitant diseases or other drug therapies. Bismuth subcitrate potassium, a component of PYLERA, is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, additional monitoring may be required [see Contraindications (4.5)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

The antianabolic action of the tetracyclines may cause an increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN). In patients with severe renal impairment, higher serum concentrations of tetracycline may lead to azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, and acidosis [see Contraindications (4.5)].

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

Patients with severe hepatic disease metabolize metronidazole slowly, with resultant accumulation of metronidazole and its metabolites in plasma. Patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment should be monitored for metronidazole associated adverse events. PYLERA is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Metronidazole:

Single oral doses of metronidazole, up to 15 g, have been reported in suicide attempts and accidental overdoses. Symptoms reported include nausea, vomiting, and ataxia. Metronidazole is dialyzable.

Neurotoxic effects, including seizures and peripheral neuropathy, have been reported after 5 to 7 days of doses of 6 to 10.4 g every other day.

Tetracycline:

In case of overdosage, discontinue medication, treat symptomatically and institute supportive measures. Dialysis does not alter serum half-life and thus would not be of benefit in treating cases of overdosage.

Bismuth subcitrate potassium:

Symptoms of a bismuth subcitrate potassium overdosage are not known.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

PYLERA is a combination of antibacterial agents (metronidazole and tetracycline hydrochloride) and bismuth subcitrate potassium [see Microbiology (12.4)].

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of the individual components of PYLERA, bismuth subcitrate potassium, metronidazole and tetracycline hydrochloride are summarized below. In addition, two studies on PYLERA were conducted to determine the effect of co-administration on the pharmacokinetics of the components.

12.4 Microbiology

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

No long-term studies have been performed to evaluate the effect of PYLERA on carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or impairment of fertility.

14.1 Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in Patients with Active Duodenal Ulcer or History of Duodenal Ulcer Disease

An open-label, parallel group, active-controlled, multicenter study in Helicobacter pylori positive patients with current duodenal ulcer or a history of duodenal ulcer disease was conducted in the United States and Canada (the North American Study).

Patients were randomized to one of the following 10-day treatment regimens:

• Three (3) PYLERA capsules four times daily, after meals and at bedtime plus 20 mg omeprazole twice a day after the morning and evening meals (OBMT).
• Clarithromycin 500 mg plus 1000 mg amoxicillin plus 20 mg omeprazole twice a day before the morning and evening meals (OAC).

H. pylori eradication rates, defined as two negative 13C-urea breath tests performed at 4 and 8 weeks post-therapy are shown in Table 6 for OBMT and OAC. The eradication rates for both groups were found to be similar using either the Per Protocol (PP) or Modified Intent-to-Treat (MITT) populations.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature [68° to 77°F or 20° to 25°C].

Lactation

Advise the lactating women to pump and discard their milk during treatment with PYLERA and for 2 days after the therapy ends [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

Hypersensitivity

Inform patients that PYLERA may cause allergic reactions and to discontinue PYLERA at the first sign of urticaria, erythematous rash, flushing, and fever or other symptoms of an allergic reaction [see Contraindications (4.7)].

Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions

Advise patients that PYLERA capsules may increase the risk of serious and sometimes fatal dermatologic reactions, including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens- Johnson syndrome (SJS), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Instruct the patient to be alert for skin rash, blisters, fever or other signs and symptoms of these hypersensitivity reactions. Advise patients to stop PYLERA capsules immediately if they develop any type of rash and seek medical attention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Central Nervous System Effects

Inform patients of the risk of central and peripheral nervous system effects with PYLERA and to discontinue PYLERA and report immediately to their health-care provider if any neurologic symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Photosensitivity

Avoid exposure to sun or sun lamps while taking PYLERA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Drug Interactions

Advise patients to report to their health-care provider the use of any other medications while taking PYLERA. The administration of any of the following drugs with PYLERA may result in clinically significant adverse reactions or insufficient drug efficacies [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7)]:

• Methoxyflurane
• Disulfiram
• Alcoholic Beverages, or Products Containing Propylene Glycol
• Oral Contraceptives
• Anticoagulants
• Lithium
• Antacids, Multivitamins, or Dairy Products
• Busulfan
• Cimetidine
• Phenytoin and Phenobarbital

Darkening of the Tongue and/or Stool

Inform patients that PYLERA may cause temporary and harmless darkening of the tongue and/or black stool generally reversible within several days after treatment is stopped. Stool darkening should not be confused with melena (blood in the stool) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

Dosing Information

Inform patients that each dose of PYLERA includes 3 capsules. All 3 capsules should be taken 4 times a day (after meals and at bedtime) for 10 days. One omeprazole 20 mg capsule should be taken twice a day with PYLERA after the morning and evening meal for 10 days.

If a dose is missed, advise patient not to make up the dose, but to continue the normal dosing schedule until medication is gone. Patients should not take double doses. If more than 4 doses are missed, advise the patient to contact their health-care provider [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

Administration with Fluids

Instruct patients to swallow the PYLERA capsules whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces). Ingestion of adequate amounts of fluid, particularly with the bedtime dose, is recommended to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration by tetracycline hydrochloride [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

Antibacterial Resistance

Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including PYLERA should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When PYLERA is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by PYLERA or other antibacterial drugs in the future.