Endo Launches Dexlansoprazole Capsules, Generic Version of Dexilant
Friday, June 16, 2023
Endo International plc (OTC: ENDPQ) announced today that one of its operating companies, Par Pharmaceutical, Inc., has begun shipping dexlansoprazole 30 mg capsules, a generic version of Takeda's Dexilant®. This additional dosage strength rounds out the product family, now with both 30 mg and 60 mg delayed-release capsules.
"We're proud to provide this high-quality, affordable generic medication to appropriate patients," said Scott Sims, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Injectable Solutions & Generics at Endo. "The dexlansoprazole product family strengthens our portfolio and our reputation as a reliable supplier."
Dexlansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor with a novel delivery system approved for the treatment of erosive esophagitis and heartburn associated with symptomatic non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
According to IQVIA™, Dexilant® 30 mg sales were approximately $45 million for the 12 months ended April 30, 2023.
Dexilant® is a registered trademark of Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Dexlansoprazole Delayed-Release Capsules, 60 mg, contain FD&C Yellow #5 (tartrazine) which may cause allergic-type reactions (including bronchial asthma) in certain susceptible persons. Although the overall incidence of FD&C Yellow #5 (tartrazine) sensitivity in the general population is low, it is frequently seen in patients who also have aspirin hypersensitivity.
Presence of Gastric Malignancy: In adults, symptomatic response to therapy with dexlansoprazole does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy. Consider additional follow-up and diagnostic testing in adult patients who have a suboptimal response or an early symptomatic relapse after completing treatment with a PPI. In older patients, also consider an endoscopy.
Acute Tubulointerstitial Nephritis (TIN): TIN has been observed in patients taking PPIs and may occur at any point during PPI therapy. Patients may present with varying signs and symptoms, from symptomatic hypersensitivity reactions to non-specific symptoms of decreased renal function (eg, malaise, nausea, anorexia). Discontinue dexlansoprazole and evaluate patients with suspected acute TIN.
Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Published observational studies suggest that PPI therapy like dexlansoprazole may be associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, especially in hospitalized patients. Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated.
Bone Fracture: Several published observational studies suggest that PPI therapy may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist or spine. The risk of fracture was increased in patients who received high-dose, defined as multiple daily doses, and long-term PPI therapy (a year or longer). Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the conditions being treated.
Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: Severe cutaneous adverse reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) have been reported in association with the use of PPIs. Discontinue dexlansoprazole delayed-release capsules at the first signs or symptoms of severe cutaneous adverse reactions or other signs of hypersensitivity and consider further evaluation.
Cutaneous and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (CLE and SLE): CLE and SLE have been reported in patients taking PPIs. These events have occurred as both new onset and an exacerbation of existing autoimmune disease. The majority of PPI-induced lupus erythematosus cases were CLE. The most common form of CLE reported in patients treated with PPIs was subacute CLE (SCLE) and occurred within weeks to years after continuous drug therapy in patients ranging from infants to the elderly. SLE is less commonly reported than CLE in patients receiving PPIs. Onset of SLE typically occurred within days to years after initiating treatment primarily in patients ranging from young adults to the elderly. The majority of patients presented with rash; however, arthralgia and cytopenia were also reported. Avoid administration of PPIs for longer than medically indicated. If signs or symptoms consistent with CLE or SLE are noted in patients receiving dexlansoprazole delayed-release capsules, discontinue the drug and refer the patient to the appropriate specialist for evaluation.
Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) Deficiency: Daily treatment with any acid-suppressing medications over a long period of time (eg, longer than three years) may lead to malabsorption of cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) caused by hypo- or achlorhydria. Rare reports of cyanocobalamin deficiency occurring with acid-suppressing therapy have been reported in the literature.
Hypomagnesemia and Mineral Metabolism: Hypomagnesemia, symptomatic and asymptomatic, has been reported rarely in patients treated with PPIs for at least three months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious adverse events include tetany, arrhythmias, and seizures. Hypomagnesemia may lead to hypocalcemia and/or hypokalemia and may exacerbate underlying hypocalcemia in at-risk patients. In most patients, treatment of hypomagnesemia required magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI. For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with medications such as digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia (eg, diuretics), health care professionals may consider monitoring magnesium levels prior to initiation of PPI treatment and periodically.
Interactions with Investigations for Neuroendocrine Tumors: Serum chromogranin A (CgA) levels increase secondary to drug-induced decreases in gastric acidity. The increased CgA level may cause false positive results in diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. Healthcare providers should temporarily stop dexlansoprazole treatment at least 14 days before assessing CgA levels and consider repeating the test if initial CgA levels are high.
Interaction with Methotrexate: Literature suggests that concomitant use of PPIs with methotrexate (primarily at high dose) may elevate and prolong serum levels of methotrexate and/or its metabolite, possibly leading to methotrexate toxicities. In high-dose methotrexate administration, a temporary withdrawal of the PPI may be considered in some patients.
Fundic Gland Polyps: PPI use is associated with an increased risk of fundic gland polyps that increases with long-term use, especially beyond one year. Most PPI users who developed fundic gland polyps were asymptomatic and fundic gland polyps were identified incidentally on endoscopy. Use the shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated.
Risk of Heart Valve Thickening in Pediatric Patients Less Than Two Years of Age: Dexlansoprazole is not recommended in pediatric patients less than two years of age.
