1.1 Treatment of HIV-1 Infection

VOCABRIA is indicated in combination with EDURANT (rilpivirine) tablets for short-term treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older and weighing at least 35 kg who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL) on a stable antiretroviral regimen with no history of treatment failure and with no known or suspected resistance to either cabotegravir or rilpivirine, for use as [see Microbiology (12.4), Clinical Studies (14.1)]:

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oral lead-in to assess the tolerability of cabotegravir prior to administration of cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension, a component of CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension).

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oral therapy for patients who will miss planned injection dosing with CABENUVA.

1.2 HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

VOCABRIA is indicated for short-term pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg who are at risk for HIV-1 acquisition. Individuals must have a negative HIV-1 test prior to initiating VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP. VOCABRIA may be used as [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Clinical Studies (14.2)]:

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oral lead-in to assess the tolerability of cabotegravir prior to administration of APRETUDE (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension).

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oral PrEP for patients who will miss planned injection dosing with APRETUDE.

2.1 Treatment of HIV-1 Infection in Adults and Adolescents 12 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 35 kg

Oral Lead-In Dosing to Assess Tolerability of Cabotegravir

Consult the prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) before initiating VOCABRIA to ensure therapy with CABENUVA is appropriate. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA.

Oral lead-in may be used to assess the tolerability of cabotegravir prior to the initiation of CABENUVA. The recommended oral lead-in daily dose is one 30-mg tablet of VOCABRIA with one 25-mg tablet of EDURANT for approximately 1 month (at least 28 days). The last oral dose should be taken on the same day injections with CABENUVA are started.

Take VOCABRIA once daily with EDURANT at approximately the same time each day with a meal [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Because VOCABRIA is indicated in combination with EDURANT tablets, the prescribing information for EDURANT should also be consulted.

Recommended Oral Dosing to Replace Planned Missed Injections of CABENUVA

Planned Missed Injections for Patients on the Monthly Dosing Schedule: If a patient plans to miss a monthly scheduled injection of CABENUVA by more than 7 days, take daily oral therapy for up to 2 months to replace missed injection visits. For oral therapy with VOCABRIA and EDURANT, the recommended oral daily dose is one 30‑mg tablet of VOCABRIA and one 25-mg tablet of EDURANT. Take VOCABRIA with EDURANT at approximately the same time each day with a meal.

The first dose of oral therapy should be taken 1 month (+/-7 days) after the last injection dose of CABENUVA and continued until the day injection dosing is restarted. For oral therapy with VOCABRIA and EDURANT of durations greater than 2 months, an alternative oral regimen is recommended. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA to resume monthly injection dosing.

Planned Missed Injections for Patients on the Every-2-Month Dosing Schedule: If a patient plans to miss a scheduled every-2-month injection of CABENUVA by more than 7 days, take daily oral therapy for up to 2 months to replace 1 missed scheduled every-2-month injection. For oral therapy with VOCABRIA and EDURANT of durations greater than 2 months, the recommended oral daily dose is one 30-mg tablet of VOCABRIA and one 25-mg tablet of EDURANT. Take VOCABRIA with EDURANT at approximately the same time each day with a meal.

The first dose of oral therapy should be taken approximately 2 months after the last injection dose of CABENUVA and continued until the day injection dosing is restarted. For oral therapy with VOCABRIA and EDURANT of durations greater than 2 months, an alternative oral regimen is recommended. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA to resume every-2-month injection dosing.

2.2 HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Adults and Adolescents Weighing at Least 35 kg

HIV-1 Screening for Individuals for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Individuals must be tested for HIV-1 infection prior to initiating VOCABRIA and APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP, and with each subsequent injection of APRETUDE, using a test approved or cleared by the FDA for the diagnosis of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. If an antigen/antibody-specific test is used and provides negative results, then such negative results should be confirmed using an RNA-specific assay, even if the results of the RNA-assay are available after VOCABRIA or APRETUDE administration [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Oral Lead-In Dosing to Assess Tolerability of Cabotegravir for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Consult the prescribing information for APRETUDE before initiating VOCABRIA to ensure use of APRETUDE is appropriate. See full prescribing information for APRETUDE.

Oral lead-in may be used to assess the tolerability of cabotegravir prior to the initiation of APRETUDE. The recommended oral daily dose is one 30-mg tablet of VOCABRIA for approximately 1 month (at least 28 days). Following oral lead-in, start initiation injection of APRETUDE on the last day of oral lead-in or within 3 days.

Oral Dosing to Replace a Planned Missed Injection of APRETUDE (One Every-2-Month Injection)

If an individual plans to miss a scheduled injection of APRETUDE by more than 7 days, take daily oral VOCABRIA to replace one every-2-month injection visit. The recommended oral daily dose is one 30-mg tablet of VOCABRIA. The first dose of oral VOCABRIA should be taken approximately 2 months after the last injection dose of APRETUDE. Restart injection with APRETUDE on the day oral dosing completes or within 3 days. See full prescribing information for APRETUDE to resume every-2-month injection dosing.

5.1 Comprehensive Management to Reduce the Risk of HIV-1 Infection When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Use of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP should be part of a comprehensive prevention strategy including adherence to the dosing schedule and safer sex practices, including condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). VOCABRIA is not always effective in preventing HIV-1 acquisition [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. The time from initiation of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP to maximal protection against HIV-1 infection is unknown.

Risk for HIV-1 acquisition includes behavioral, biological, or epidemiologic factors including, but not limited to, condomless sex, past or current STIs, self-identified HIV risk, having sexual partners of unknown HIV-1 viremic status, or sexual activity in a high prevalence area or network.

Counsel individuals on the use of other prevention measures (e.g., consistent and correct condom use; knowledge of partner(s)’ HIV-1 status, including viral suppression status; regular testing for STIs that can facilitate HIV-1 transmission). Inform individuals about and support their efforts in reducing sexual risk behavior.

VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 should be used only in individuals confirmed to be HIV-1 negative [see Contraindications (4)]. HIV-1 resistance substitutions may emerge in individuals with undiagnosed HIV-1 infection who are taking only VOCABRIA, because VOCABRIA alone does not constitute a complete regimen for HIV-1 treatment [see Microbiology (12.4)]; therefore, care should be taken to minimize the risk of initiating or continuing VOCABRIA before confirming the individual is HIV-1 negative.

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Prior to initiating VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP, ask seronegative individuals about recent (in past month) potential exposure events (e.g., condomless sex or condom breaking during sex with a partner of unknown HIV-1 status or unknown viremic status, a recent STI), and evaluate for current or recent signs or symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection (e.g., fever, fatigue, myalgia, skin rash).

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If recent (<1 month) exposures to HIV-1 are suspected or clinical symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection are present, use a test approved or cleared by the FDA as an aid in the diagnosis of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. Testing should be repeated prior to each injection of APRETUDE and upon diagnosis of any other STIs [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

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If an HIV-1 test indicates possible HIV-1 infection, or if symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection develop following an exposure event, additional HIV testing to determine HIV status is needed. If an individual has confirmed HIV-1 infection, then the individual must be transitioned to a complete HIV-1 treatment regimen.

Counsel individuals without HIV-1 to strictly adhere to the recommended dosing schedule for VOCABRIA in order to reduce the risk of HIV-1 acquisition and the potential development of resistance [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Microbiology (12.4)]. Some individuals, such as adolescents, may benefit from frequent visits and counseling to support adherence to the dosing schedule [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4), Microbiology (12.4), Clinical Studies (14.2)].

5.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Serious or severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported in association with other integrase inhibitors and could occur with VOCABRIA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)]. Administration of oral lead-in dosing was used in clinical studies to help identify participants who may be at risk of a hypersensitivity reaction. Remain vigilant and discontinue VOCABRIA if a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Contraindications (4), Adverse Reactions (6)].

Discontinue VOCABRIA immediately if signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions develop (including, but not limited to, severe rash, or rash accompanied by fever, general malaise, fatigue, muscle or joint aches, blisters, mucosal involvement [oral blisters or lesions], conjunctivitis, facial edema, hepatitis, eosinophilia, angioedema, difficulty breathing). Clinical status, including liver transaminases, should be monitored and appropriate therapy initiated.

5.3 Hepatotoxicity

Hepatotoxicity has been reported in a limited number of patients receiving cabotegravir with or without known pre-existing hepatic disease or identifiable risk factors [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

When VOCABRIA is Used for Treatment HIV-1 Infection

Patients with underlying liver disease or marked elevations in transaminases prior to treatment with VOCABRIA may be at increased risk for worsening or development of transaminase elevations.

Monitoring of liver chemistries is recommended and treatment with VOCABRIA should be discontinued if hepatotoxicity is suspected.

When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Clinical and laboratory monitoring should be considered and VOCABRIA should be discontinued if hepatotoxicity is suspected, and individuals managed as clinically indicated.

5.4 Depressive Disorders

When VOCABRIA is Used for Treatment HIV-1 Infection

Depressive disorders (including depressed mood, depression, mood altered, mood swings, suicidal ideation/suicide attempt) have been reported with VOCABRIA when used with EDURANT for treatment of HIV-1 infection [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Promptly evaluate patients with depressive symptoms to assess whether the symptoms are related to VOCABRIA and to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits.

When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Depressive disorders (including depression, depressed mood, persistent depressive disorder, suicidal ideation/suicide attempt) have been reported with VOCABRIA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Promptly evaluate individuals with depressive symptoms to assess whether the symptoms are related to VOCABRIA and to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits.

5.5 Risk of Adverse Reactions, Loss of Efficacy, or Reduced Concentration Due to Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of VOCABRIA and other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions, some of which may lead to adverse events, loss of efficacy from VOCABRIA when used for treatment of HIV-1 infection or HIV-1 PrEP, and possible development of viral resistance [see Contraindications (4), Drug Interactions (7.2, 7.3)].

See Table 1 for steps to prevent or manage these possible and known significant drug interactions, including dosing recommendations. Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during use of VOCABRIA; review concomitant medications during use of VOCABRIA [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

5.6 Risks Associated with Combination Treatment

VOCABRIA is indicated for use in combination with EDURANT (rilpivirine) for treatment of HIV-1 infection [see Indications and Usage (1.1), Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Review the prescribing information for EDURANT for information on rilpivirine prior to initiation of VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT.

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 with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect rates observed in practice. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) for additional safety information. Since VOCABRIA is taken in combination with EDURANT tablets, the prescribing information for EDURANT (rilpivirine) should be consulted for relevant information on rilpivirine.

Adverse Reactions of VOCABRIA in Clinical Trials for the Treatment of HIV-1 Infection

Clinical Trials Experience in Adults: The safety assessment of VOCABRIA for oral lead-in therapy prior to therapy with CABENUVA is based on the analysis of 48-week data from virologically suppressed participants with HIV-1 infection in 3 international, multicenter, open-label trials, where 590 of 1,182 participants received oral lead-in within the pivotal trials FLAIR and ATLAS (pooled analysis) and 655 of 1,045 participants received oral lead-in within ATLAS-2M [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Adverse reactions were reported following exposure to VOCABRIA tablets and EDURANT tablets administered in combination as oral lead-in therapy (median time exposure: 5.3 weeks). Adverse reactions included those attributable to the oral formulation of cabotegravir and rilpivirine administered as a combination regimen. Refer to the prescribing information for EDURANT for other adverse reactions associated with oral rilpivirine.

The most common adverse reactions during the oral lead-in period in the pooled analyses of FLAIR and ATLAS at Week 48 were headache, nausea, abnormal dreams, anxiety, and insomnia, all of which occurred in at least 3 participants with an incidence ≤1%. The most common adverse reactions during the oral lead-in period for ATLAS-2M were fatigue, diarrhea, headache, nausea, dizziness, abdominal discomfort, abdominal distension, insomnia, and asthenia, all of which occurred in at least 3 participants across both arms, with an incidence ≤2%.

During the oral lead-in period for FLAIR and ATLAS, 6 (1%) participants discontinued due to adverse events, including asthenia, myalgia, depression suicidal, and headache. During the oral lead-in period for ATLAS-2M, 4 (<1%) participants discontinued due to adverse events, including asthenia, skin lesion, fatigue, transaminases increased, and depression.

In the extension phase of the FLAIR study at Week 124, the overall safety profile was consistent with that observed at Week 48 and when injection therapy with CABENUVA was initiated directly without the oral lead-in phase.

Clinical Trial Experience in Adolescents: Based on data from the Week 24 analysis of the MOCHA study in 144 adolescents (aged 12 to younger than 18 years and weighing ≥35 kg), the safety profile of oral cabotegravir and oral rilpivirine administered in combination during the oral lead-in period in adolescents was consistent with the safety profile established with cabotegravir plus rilpivirine in adults.

Adverse Reactions of VOCABRIA in Clinical Trials for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Clinical Trial Experience in Adults: In trial HPTN 083, adverse reactions were reported while participants were on blinded study product following exposure to VOCABRIA tablets as oral lead-in for HIV-1 PrEP (median time exposure: 4.1 weeks). The most common adverse reactions reported at ≥1% during the oral lead-in period were diarrhea (4% and 4%), nausea (3% and 5%), dizziness (2% and 2%), headache (2% and 2%), fatigue (1% and 2%), and abnormal dreams (1% and 2%) for VOCABRIA and TRUVADA (emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), respectively. During the oral lead-in period, 24 (1%) participants receiving VOCABRIA discontinued due to adverse events, including increased alanine aminotransferase, increased aspartate aminotransferase, suicide attempt, and dizziness, which were observed in ≥2 participants.

In Trial HPTN 084, adverse reactions were reported while participants were on blinded study product following exposure to VOCABRIA tablets as oral lead-in for HIV-1 PrEP (median time exposure: 4.1 weeks). The most common adverse reactions reported at ≥1% during the oral lead-in period were headache (6% and 7%), nausea (3% and 7%), dizziness (3% and 4%), diarrhea (2% and 4%), upper respiratory tract infection (2% and 2%), somnolence (2% and 1%), fatigue (1% and 2%), abdominal pain (1% and 1%), vomiting (<1% and 3%), decreased appetite (<1% and 2%), and pruritus (<1% and 1%) for VOCABRIA and TRUVADA, respectively. During the oral lead-in period, 4 (<1%) participants receiving VOCABRIA discontinued due to adverse events of increased alanine aminotransferase (n = 3) and sleep disorders (n = 1).

Clinical Trials Experience in Adolescents: In adolescents receiving VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP, the safety data were comparable to the safety data reported in adults receiving VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].

Less Common Adverse Reactions

The following select adverse reactions (regardless of severity) occurred in <1% of participants receiving VOCABRIA in clinical trials for the treatment of HIV-1 infection or for HIV-1 PrEP.

Psychiatric Disorders: Suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt (these events were observed primarily in participants with a pre‑existing history of depression or other psychiatric illness).

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during postmarketing use of cabotegravir-containing regimens. 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.

Immune System Disorders

Hypersensitivity reactions (including angioedema and urticaria) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

7.1 Concomitant Use with Other Antiretroviral Medicines

VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT (rilpivirine) is a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Refer to the prescribing information for EDURANT for relevant information on rilpivirine.

Coadministration of VOCABRIA with other antiretroviral medications for PrEP is not recommended [see Drug Interactions (7.4), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Prior to initiating dosing with VOCABRIA, the prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) or APRETUDE should be consulted to ensure use of CABENUVA or APRETUDE will be appropriate for either the treatment of HIV-1 infection or HIV-1 PrEP, respectively.

7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect VOCABRIA

Cabotegravir is primarily metabolized by UGT1A1 with some contribution from UGT1A9. Drugs that are strong inducers of UGT1A1 or UGT1A9 are expected to decrease cabotegravir plasma concentrations and may result in loss of efficacy; therefore, coadministration of VOCABRIA with these drugs is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4)].

Coadministration of oral cabotegravir with polyvalent cation-containing products may lead to decreased absorption of cabotegravir [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

7.3 Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions

Information regarding potential drug interactions with cabotegravir are provided in Table 1. These recommendations are based on either drug interaction trials or predicted interactions due to the expected magnitude of the interaction and potential for loss of efficacy [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Table 1 includes potentially significant interactions but is not all inclusive.

Refer to the prescribing information for EDURANT (rilpivirine) for established or potentially significant interactions that should be considered during concomitant administration of VOCABRIA and EDURANT for HIV-1 treatment.

7.4 Drugs without Clinically Significant Interactions with Cabotegravir

Based on drug interaction study results, the following drugs can be coadministered with cabotegravir without a dose adjustment: etravirine, midazolam, oral contraceptives containing levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, rifabutin, and rilpivirine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Prior to initiating oral therapy, note that use of CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) with rifabutin is contraindicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Dosage modification is recommended when APRETUDE is used with rifabutin for HIV-1 PrEP.

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in individuals exposed to VOCABRIA during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263.

Risk Summary

There are insufficient human data on the use of VOCABRIA during pregnancy to adequately assess a drug-associated risk of birth defects and miscarriage. Discuss the benefit-risk of using VOCABRIA with individuals of childbearing potential or during pregnancy.

The APR has been established to monitor for birth defects following prenatal exposure to antiretrovirals. The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. The background rate for major birth defects in a United States (U.S.) reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) is 2.7%. The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15% to 20%. The APR uses the MACDP as the U.S. reference population for birth defects in the general population. The MACDP evaluates mothers and infants from a limited geographic area and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at <20 weeks’ gestation.

In animal reproduction studies with oral cabotegravir, a delay in the onset of parturition and increased stillbirths and neonatal deaths were observed in a rat pre- and postnatal development study at >28 times the exposure at the recommended human dose (RHD). No evidence of adverse developmental outcomes was observed with oral cabotegravir in rats or rabbits (>28 times or similar to the exposure at the RHD, respectively) given during organogenesis (see Data).

Data

Animal Data: Cabotegravir was administered orally to pregnant rats at 0, 0.5, 5, or 1,000 mg/kg/day from 15 days before cohabitation, during cohabitation, and from Gestation Days 0 to 17. There were no effects on fetal viability when fetuses were delivered by caesarean, although a minor decrease in fetal body weight was observed at 1,000 mg/kg/day (>28 times the exposure in humans at the RHD). No drug-related fetal toxicities were observed at 5 mg/kg/day (approximately 13 times the exposure in humans at the RHD), and no drug-related fetal malformations were observed at any dose.

Cabotegravir was administered orally to pregnant rabbits at 0, 30, 500, or 2,000 mg/kg/day from Gestation Days 7 to 19. No drug-related fetal toxicities were observed at 2,000 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.7 times the exposure in humans at the RHD).

In a rat pre- and postnatal development study, cabotegravir was administered orally to pregnant rats at 0, 0.5, 5, or 1,000 mg/kg/day from Gestation Day 6 to Lactation Day 21. A delay in the onset of parturition and increases in the number of stillbirths and neonatal deaths by Lactation Day 4 were observed at 1,000 mg/kg/day (>28 times the exposure in humans at the RHD); there were no alterations to growth and development of surviving offspring. In a cross-fostering study, similar incidences of stillbirths and early postnatal deaths were observed when rat pups born to cabotegravir-treated mothers were nursed from birth by control mothers. There was no effect on neonatal survival of control pups nursed from birth by cabotegravir-treated mothers. A lower dose of 5 mg/kg/day (13 times the exposure at the RHD) was not associated with delayed parturition or neonatal mortality in rats. Studies in pregnant rats showed that cabotegravir crosses the placenta and can be detected in fetal tissue.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of cabotegravir in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Cabotegravir is present in animal milk (see Data). When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. Potential risks of breastfeeding include: (1) HIV‑1 transmission (in HIV-1–negative infants), (2) developing viral resistance (in HIV-1–positive infants), and (3) adverse reactions in a breastfed infant similar to those seen in adults.

In mothers without HIV-1, breastfeeding should only be considered if the expected benefit justifies the potential risk to the infant, including the potential risk for adverse reaction in the breastfed child, along with the risk of HIV-1 acquisition due to nonadherence and subsequent vertical transmission to the child. Breastfeeding is not recommended if acute HIV-1 infection is suspected to avoid the risk of postnatal transmission of HIV-1 infection.

Data

Animal lactation studies with cabotegravir have not been conducted. However, cabotegravir was detected in the plasma of nursing pups on Lactation Day 10 in the rat pre- and postnatal development study.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Treatment of HIV-1 Infection

The safety and effectiveness of VOCABRIA have been established in adolescents aged 12 to younger than 18 years and weighing at least 35 kg, which is supported by the following:

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Trials in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]

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MOCHA (NCT03497676) trial in adolescents, in which virologically suppressed adolescents (aged 12 to younger than 18 years and weighing at least 35 kg) with HIV-1 received either cabotegravir or rilpivirine in addition to their background antiretroviral regimen (cohort 1), or cabotegravir plus rilpivirine as a complete regimen (cohort 2) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.3)].

The safety and efficacy of VOCABRIA in adolescents (aged 12 to younger than 18 years and weighing at least 35 kg) were similar to that in adults and there was no clinically significant change in drug exposure [see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Please refer to the CABENUVA prescribing information for additional information.

The safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of VOCABRIA have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 12 years of age or weighing <35 kg.

HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

The safety and effectiveness of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP in adolescents weighing at least 35 kg who are at risk for HIV-1 acquisition is supported by data from 2 adequate and well-controlled trials of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP in adults with additional safety and pharmacokinetic data from studies in adults with HIV-1 who were administered CABENUVA and in adolescent participants with HIV-1 who were administered separate components of CABENUVA in addition to their current antiretroviral therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.2)].

APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP was evaluated in 2 open-label multicenter clinical trials, HPTN 083-01 and HPTN 084-01, in adolescent individuals 12 to less than 18 years of age weighing at least 35 kg who are at risk for HIV-1 acquisition. Sixty-four adolescents were enrolled. Of these, 62 adolescent participants received one or more injections after receiving VOCABRIA. In adolescents receiving VOCABRIA and APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP, the safety data were comparable to the safety data reported in adults receiving APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP.

While using APRETUDE, HIV-1 testing should be conducted prior to initiating APRETUDE (with or without an oral lead-in with oral cabotegravir) and prior to each injection of APRETUDE. Adolescents may benefit from more frequent visits and counseling to support adherence to the dosing schedule [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

The safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of VOCABRIA in pediatric participants younger than 12 years of age or weighing <35 kg have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical trials of VOCABRIA did not include sufficient numbers of participants aged 65 years and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger participants. In general, caution should be exercised in administration of VOCABRIA in elderly patients, reflecting greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustment of VOCABRIA is necessary for patients with mild to moderate (creatinine clearance equal to 30 mL/min to <90 mL/min) or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance equal to 15 mL/min to <30 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The effect of end-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance <15 mL/min) on the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir is unknown. As cabotegravir is >99% protein bound, dialysis is not expected to alter exposures of cabotegravir.

Since VOCABRIA is taken in combination with EDURANT for the treatment of HIV-1 infection, the prescribing information for EDURANT should be consulted for additional recommendations in patients with severe impairment or end-stage renal disease.

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment of VOCABRIA is necessary for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A or B). The effect of severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) on the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir is unknown [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Cabotegravir is an HIV-1 antiretroviral drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Cardiac Electrophysiology

At a dose of cabotegravir 150 mg orally every 12 hours (10 times the recommended total daily oral lead-in dosage of VOCABRIA), the QT interval is not prolonged to any clinically relevant extent. Administration of 3 doses of cabotegravir 150 mg orally every 12 hours resulted in a geometric mean Cmax approximately 2.8-fold above the geometric mean steady-state Cmax associated with the recommended 30-mg dose of oral cabotegravir.

For additional QT information related to the injectable formulations of cabotegravir and rilpivirine (CABENUVA), the injectable formulation of cabotegravir (APRETUDE), and the oral formulation of rilpivirine (EDURANT), refer to the prescribing information for CABENUVA, APRETUDE, and EDURANT.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Absorption, Distribution, and Elimination

The pharmacokinetic properties of cabotegravir are provided in Table 2. The multiple-dose pharmacokinetic parameters are provided in Table 3.

Specific Populations

No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir were observed based on age, sex, race/ethnicity, body mass index, or UGT1A1 polymorphisms. The effect of hepatitis B and C virus co-infection on the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir is unknown.

Renal Impairment: No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir are expected with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment. Cabotegravir has not been studied in patients with end-stage renal disease not on dialysis. As cabotegravir is >99% protein bound, dialysis is not expected to alter exposures of cabotegravir [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Hepatic Impairment: No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir are expected in mild to moderate (Child-Pugh A or B) hepatic impairment. The effect of severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) on the pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir has not been studied [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Gender: Population pharmacokinetic analyses revealed no clinically relevant effect of gender on the exposure of cabotegravir. In addition, no clinically relevant differences in plasma cabotegravir concentrations were observed in PrEP studies by gender, including cisgender men and transgender women (+/-hormone use). Therefore, no dose adjustment is necessary based on gender.

Geriatric Patients: No dose adjustment is required in elderly individuals. There are limited data available on the use of cabotegravir in individuals aged 65 years and older. In general, caution should be exercised in administration of cabotegravir in elderly individuals, reflecting greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

Pediatric Patients: Population pharmacokinetic analyses revealed no clinically relevant differences in exposure between adolescent participants (weighing ≥35 kg) and adult participants with and without HIV-1 from the cabotegravir development program; therefore, no dosage adjustment is needed for adolescents weighing ≥35 kg (Table 4).

Drug Interaction Studies

Cabotegravir is not a clinically relevant inhibitor of the following enzymes and transporters: cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A2, 2A6, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4; UGT1A1, 1A3, 1A4, 1A6, 1A9, 2B4, 2B7, 2B15, and 2B17; P-glycoprotein (P-gp); breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP); bile salt export pump (BSEP); organic cation transporter (OCT)1, OCT2; organic anion transporter polypeptide (OATP)1B1, OATP1B3; multidrug and toxin extrusion transporter (MATE) 1, MATE 2-K; and multidrug resistance protein (MRP)2 or MRP4.

In vitro, cabotegravir inhibited renal OAT1 (IC50 = 0.81 microM) and OAT3 (IC50 = 0.41 microM). Based on physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, cabotegravir may increase the AUC of OAT1/3 substrates up to approximately 80%.

In vitro, cabotegravir did not induce CYP1A2, CYP2B6, or CYP3A4.

Simulations using PBPK modeling show that no clinically significant interaction is expected during coadministration of cabotegravir with drugs that inhibit UGT1A1.

In vitro, cabotegravir was not a substrate of OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1, or OCT1.

Cabotegravir is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP in vitro; however, because of its high permeability, no alteration in cabotegravir absorption is expected with coadministration of P-gp or BCRP inhibitors.

The effects of coadministered drugs on the exposure of cabotegravir are summarized in Table 5, and the effects of cabotegravir on the exposure of coadministered drugs are summarized in Table 6.

 

n = Maximum number of participants with data, CI = Confidence Interval.

 

n = Maximum number of participants with data, CI = Confidence Interval, NA = Not available.

12.4 Microbiology

Mechanism of Action

Cabotegravir inhibits HIV integrase by binding to the integrase active site and blocking the strand transfer step of retroviral deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) integration that is essential for the HIV replication cycle. The mean 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of cabotegravir in a strand transfer assay using purified recombinant HIV-1 integrase was 3.0 nM.

Antiviral Activity in Cell Culture

Cabotegravir exhibited antiviral activity against laboratory strains of HIV-1 (subtype B, n = 4) with mean 50 percent effective concentration (EC50) values of 0.22 to 1.7 nM in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and 293 cells. Cabotegravir demonstrated antiviral activity in PBMCs against a panel of 24 HIV-1 clinical isolates (3 in each of group M subtypes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G and 3 in group O) with a median EC50 value of 0.19 nM (range: 0.02 to 1.06 nM, n = 24). The median EC50 value against subtype B clinical isolates was 0.05 nM (range: 0.02 to 0.50 nM, n = 3). Against clinical HIV-2 isolates, the median EC50 value was 0.12 nM (range: 0.10 to 0.14 nM, n = 3).

In cell culture, cabotegravir was not antagonistic in combination with the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) rilpivirine, or the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) emtricitabine (FTC), lamivudine (3TC), or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).

Resistance

Cell Culture: Cabotegravir-resistant viruses were selected during passage of HIV-1 strain IIIB in MT-2 cells in the presence of cabotegravir. Amino acid substitutions in integrase that emerged and conferred decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir included Q146L (fold change: 1.3 to 4.6), S153Y (fold change: 2.8 to 8.4), and I162M (fold change: 2.8). The integrase substitution T124A also emerged alone (fold change: 1.1 to 7.4 in cabotegravir susceptibility), in combination with S153Y (fold change: 3.6 to 6.6 in cabotegravir susceptibility) or I162M (2.8-fold change in cabotegravir susceptibility). Cell culture passage of virus harboring integrase substitutions Q148H, Q148K, or Q148R selected for additional substitutions (C56S, V72I, L74M, V75A, T122N, E138K, G140S, G149A, and M154I), with substituted viruses having reduced susceptibility to cabotegravir of 2.0- to 410-fold change. The combinations of E138K+Q148K and V72I+E138K+Q148K conferred the greatest reductions of 53- to 260-fold change and 410-fold change, respectively.

Clinical Trials: Treatment of HIV-1 Infection: In the pooled Phase 3 FLAIR (Week 124) and ATLAS (Week 96) analysis, there were 8 confirmed virologic failures (2 consecutive HIV-1 RNA ≥200 copies/mL) on cabotegravir plus rilpivirine (8/591, 1.4%) and 8 confirmed virologic failures on current antiretroviral regimen (8/591, 1.4%). Of the 8 confirmed virologic failures in the cabotegravir plus rilpivirine arm, 7 (88%) had treatment-emergent NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions K101E, V106V/A, V108I, E138A, E138G, E138K, H221H/L, or M230L in reverse transcriptase, and 6 of them showed reduced phenotypic susceptibility to rilpivirine (range: 2- to 27-fold). One additional participant in the ATLAS Extension Switch on cabotegravir plus rilpivirine had emergent NNRTI resistance substitution E138A at Week 80 with HIV-1 RNA >50 copies/mL and <200 copies/mL.

Additionally, 5 of the 8 (63%) cabotegravir plus rilpivirine confirmed virologic failures had treatment-emergent INSTI resistance-associated substitutions and reduced phenotypic susceptibility to cabotegravir: Q148R (n = 2; 5- and 9-fold decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir), G140R (n = 1; 7-fold decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir), N155H (n = 1; 3-fold decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir), or N155H+R263K (n = 1; 9-fold decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir).

There was another confirmed virologic failure participant at Week 112 in FLAIR who had switched to cabotegravir plus rilpivirine direct to injection at Week 100; there were no INSTI resistance-associated substitutions detected at failure.

In comparison, in the current antiretroviral regimen arm with 8 confirmed virologic failures, 2 of 7 (29%) who had post‑baseline resistance data had treatment-emergent resistance substitutions and phenotypic resistance to their antiretroviral drugs; both had treatment-emergent NRTI substitutions, M184V or I, which conferred resistance to emtricitabine or lamivudine in their regimen, and one of them also had the treatment-emergent NNRTI resistance substitution G190S, which conferred resistance to efavirenz in their regimen.

In the ATLAS-2M trial, there were 11 confirmed virologic failures (2 consecutive HIV-1 RNA ≥200 copies/mL) through Week 48: 9 participants (1.7%) in the every-2-month treatment arm and 2 participants (0.4%) in the monthly treatment arm. Of note, 8 of the 11 (73%) participants met confirmed virologic failure criteria at or before the Week 24 injection visit.

Four of the 9 confirmed virologic failure participants in the every-2-month arm transitioned from the oral current antiretroviral regimen arm of ATLAS into this trial.

In the every-2-month treatment arm, 8 of 9 (89%) confirmed virologic failure participants had NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions (E138E/K+V179V/I, K101E+E138A, A98G+K103N, E138K, V179I+Y188L+P225H, Y188L, K103N+E138A, or K101E) at virologic failure. Decreases in rilpivirine susceptibility for these 8 participant isolates ranged from 2- to 30-fold. Six of the 8 participants with NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions also had INSTI resistance-associated substitutions (L74I+Q148Q/R+N155N/H (n = 2), L74I+T97A+N155H, L74I+N155H, N155H, or L74I+Q148R) at failure with cabotegravir fold changes ranging from 1- to 9-fold. The INSTI polymorphism L74I was detected at baseline in 5 of the virologic failure participants by a HIV-1 proviral DNA assay.

In the monthly treatment arm, both of the confirmed virologic failure participants had NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions (K101E+M230L or Y188F+G190Q) at virologic failure with decreased susceptibility to rilpivirine of 17- and >119.2-fold, respectively. Both participants also had INSTI resistance-associated substitutions (N155N/H or Q148R+E138E/K) at failure with decreased susceptibility to cabotegravir of 2- and 5-fold, respectively. Neither participant had the L74I integrase polymorphism at baseline.

Genotypic Baseline Factors Associated with Virologic Failure

An increased risk of cabotegravir plus rilpivirine confirmed virologic failure is associated with baseline virological factors: HIV-1 subtype A1, the presence of baseline integrase L74I polymorphism, and archived NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions.

Association of Subtype A1 and Baseline L74I Polymorphism in Integrase with Cabotegravir plus Rilpivirine Virologic Failure

Eight of the 18 (44%) cabotegravir plus rilpivirine confirmed virologic failures in FLAIR, ATLAS, and ATLAS-2M had HIV-1 subtype A1 with 7 of the 8 subtype A1 failures having the integrase polymorphism L74I detected at baseline and failure timepoints (Table 7). There was no detectable phenotypic resistance to cabotegravir conferred by the presence of L74I at baseline.

Subtype A1 is uncommon in the U.S.

The presence of the integrase polymorphism L74I in subtype B commonly seen in the U.S. was not associated with virologic failure. In contrast to FLAIR and ATLAS, where all virologic failures were subtype A, A1, or AG, subtypes of the cabotegravir plus rilpivirine virologic failures in ATLAS-2M included A (n = 1), A1 (n = 3), B (n = 4), C (n = 2), and complex/A1 (n = 1).

Association of Archived Baseline NNRTI Substitutions with Cabotegravir plus Rilpivirine Virologic Failure

The presence of archived NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions at baseline detected using an exploratory HIV-1 proviral DNA assay was associated with a higher virologic failure rate in the every-2-month arm of ATLAS-2M and in the cabotegravir plus rilpivirine arm (monthly) of ATLAS compared to without archived NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions (Table 7). However, in clinical practice, it is unlikely baseline resistance testing will be performed on virologically suppressed patients (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL). Thus, in patients with an incomplete or uncertain NNRTI treatment history, consideration should be given before starting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine treatment.

HIV-1 PrEP: There were 12 incident infections and 4 prevalent infections among participants receiving cabotegravir injection for HIV-1 PrEP in HPTN 083. Genotypic data were generated for viruses from 13 of these 16 participants (4 participants with prevalent infections and 9 participants with incident infections) and phenotypic data were generated for 3 of these viruses. INSTI resistance-associated substitutions were detected in 5 viruses from participants who achieved target plasma concentrations of cabotegravir (≥0.65 mcg/mL [1.6 microM]) and included R263K (2-fold less susceptible to cabotegravir), E138A+Q148R (6-fold less susceptible to cabotegravir), E138K+Q148K, G140A+Q148R (13-fold less susceptible to cabotegravir), and L74I+E138E/K+G140G/S+Q148R+E157Q.

There were 3 incident infections and 1 prevalent infection among participants receiving cabotegravir injection for HIV-1 PrEP in HPTN 084. All 3 incident infections occurred during periods with cabotegravir exposures below the target concentration. No variants expressing INSTI resistance-associated substitutions were detected.

Cross-Resistance

Cross-resistance has been observed among INSTIs. Cabotegravir had reduced susceptibility (>5-fold change) to recombinant HIV-1 strain NL432 viruses harboring the following integrase amino acid substitutions: G118R, Q148K, Q148R, T66K+L74M, E92Q+N155H, E138A+Q148R, E138K+Q148K/R, G140C+Q148R, G140S+Q148H/K/R, Y143H+N155H, and Q148R+N155H (range: 5.1- to 81-fold). The substitutions E138K+Q148K and Q148R+N155H conferred the greatest reductions in susceptibility of 81- and 61-fold, respectively.

Cabotegravir was active against viruses harboring the NNRTI substitutions K103N or Y188L, or the NRTI substitutions M184V, D67N/K70R/T215Y, or V75I/F77L/F116Y/Q151M.

Virologic failure isolates from cabotegravir plus rilpivirine treatment in FLAIR, ATLAS, and ATLAS-2M exhibited cross-resistance to INSTIs and NNRTIs. All confirmed virologic isolates with genotypic evidence of cabotegravir resistance had cross-resistance to elvitegravir and raltegravir but retained phenotypic susceptibility to dolutegravir and when tested bictegravir.

Viruses harboring E138A+Q148R or G140A+Q148R with reduced susceptibility to cabotegravir were isolated from participants using cabotegravir injection for HIV-1 PrEP in HPTN 083. These viruses remained susceptible to bictegravir and dolutegravir but had cross-resistance to elvitegravir and raltegravir.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis

Two-year carcinogenicity studies in mice and rats were conducted with cabotegravir. In mice, no drug-related increases in tumor incidence were observed at cabotegravir exposures (AUC) up to approximately 8 times (males) and 7 times (females) higher than those in humans at the RHD. In rats, no drug-related increases in tumor incidence were observed at cabotegravir exposures up to approximately 26 times higher than those in humans at the RHD.

Mutagenesis

Cabotegravir was not genotoxic in the bacterial reverse mutation assay, mouse lymphoma assay, or in the in vivo rodent micronucleus assay.

Impairment of Fertility

In rats, no effects on fertility were observed at cabotegravir exposures (AUC) >20 times (male) and 28 times (female) the exposure in humans at the RHD.

14.1 Clinical Trials in Adults for Treatment of HIV-1 Infection

The use of VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT as an oral lead-in and in patients who miss planned injections with CABENUVA was evaluated in 3 Phase 3 randomized, multicenter, active-controlled, parallel-arm, open-label, non-inferiority trials (Trial 201584: FLAIR [NCT02938520], Trial 201585: ATLAS [NCT02951052], and Trial 207966: ATLAS‑2M [NCT03299049]) in participants who were virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL). Please refer to the CABENUVA prescribing information for additional information.

In the FLAIR study during the Extension Phase (Week 100 to Week 124), the efficacy of CABENUVA was evaluated in participants who switched (at Week 100) from their current antiretroviral regimen to CABENUVA, with and without an oral lead-in phase. A total of 121 participants chose to start the treatment with oral lead-in and 111 participants chose direct to injection. Participants were not randomized during the Extension Phase. At Week 124, the proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA ≥50 copies/mL was 0.8% and 0.9% for the oral lead-in and direct to injection groups, respectively. The rates of virologic suppression (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL) were similar in both the oral lead-in (93%) and direct to injection (99%) groups.

14.2 Clinical Trials in Adults for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

The use of VOCABRIA as an oral lead-in and in participants who miss planned injections with APRETUDE to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 infection were evaluated in 2 randomized, double-blind, controlled, multinational trials, Trial 201738 (HPTN 083 [NCT02720094]) in men without HIV-1 and transgender women who have sex with men and have evidence of high-risk behavior for HIV-1 infection and Trial 201739 (HPTN 084 [NCT03164564]) in cisgender women without HIV-1 at risk of acquiring HIV-1. Please refer to the APRETUDE prescribing information for additional information.

14.3 Clinical Trial in Adolescents for Treatment of HIV-1 Infection

Trial 208580 (MOCHA, [NCT03497676])

The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of oral and injectable cabotegravir and oral and injectable rilpivirine were assessed in an ongoing Phase 1/2 multicenter, open-label, non‑comparative study, MOCHA (IMPAACT 2017), in virologically suppressed adolescents with HIV-1 aged 12 to younger than 18 years and weighing ≥35 kg [see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

The primary objective at Week 24 was to confirm the safety of injectable cabotegravir plus injectable rilpivirine in virologically suppressed adolescents with HIV-1. Antiviral activity was assessed as a secondary objective. A total of 144 adolescent participants with HIV-1 received oral cabotegravir in combination with oral rilpivirine as an oral lead-in. Please refer to the CABENUVA prescribing information for additional information.