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Drug Safety-related Labeling Changes (SrLC)

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COZAAR (NDA-020386)

(LOSARTAN POTASSIUM)

Safety-related Labeling Changes Approved by FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)

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10/15/2021 (SUPPL-64)

Approved Drug Label (PDF)

5 Warnings and Precautions

5.1 Fetal Toxicity

(Additions and/or revisions underlined)

COZAAR can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin- angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. Resulting oligohydramnios can be associated with fetal lung hypoplasia and skeletal deformations. Potential neonatal adverse effects include skull hypoplasia, anuria, hypotension, renal failure, and death. When pregnancy is detected, discontinue COZAAR as soon as possible [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

8 Use in Specific Populations

8.1 Pregnancy

(Pregnancy Lactation Labeling Rule (PLLR) conversion; additions and/or revisions underlined)

Risk Summary

COZAAR can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin- angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. Most epidemiologic studies examining fetal abnormalities after exposure to antihypertensive use in the first trimester have not distinguished drugs affecting the renin- angiotensin system from other antihypertensive agents. When pregnancy is detected, discontinue COZAAR as soon as possible (see Clinical Considerations).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse 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.

Clinical Considerations

Disease-associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk

Hypertension in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature delivery, and delivery complications (e.g., need for cesarean section, post-partum hemorrhage). Hypertension increases the fetal risk for intrauterine growth restriction and intrauterine death. Pregnant women with hypertension should be carefully monitored and managed accordingly.

Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions

Oligohydramnios in pregnant women who use drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can result in the following: reduced fetal renal function leading to anuria and renal failure, fetal lung hypoplasia, skeletal deformations, including skull hypoplasia, hypotension, and death. In the unusual case that there is no appropriate alternative to therapy with drugs affecting the renin- angiotensin system for a particular patient, apprise the mother of the potential risk to the fetus.

In patients taking COZAAR during pregnancy, perform serial ultrasound examinations to assess the intra- amniotic environment. Fetal testing may be appropriate, based on the week of gestation. If oligohydramnios is observed, discontinue COZAAR, unless it is considered lifesaving for the mother. Patients and physicians should be aware, however, that oligohydramnios may not appear until after the fetus has sustained irreversible injury.

Closely observe neonates with histories of in utero exposure to COZAAR for hypotension, oliguria, and hyperkalemia. In neonates with a history of in utero exposure to COZAAR, if oliguria or hypotension occurs, support blood pressure and renal perfusion. Exchange transfusions or dialysis may be required as a means of reversing hypotension and replacing renal function.

Data

Animal Data

Losartan potassium was administered orally to rats during the period of late gestation through lactation (Gestation Day 15 through Lactation Day 20) at doses of 10, 25, and 100 mg/kg/day

8.2 Lactation

(Pregnancy Lactation Labeling Rule (PLLR) conversion)

Risk Summary

It is not known whether losartan is excreted in human milk, but significant levels of losartan and its active metabolite were shown to be present in rat milk. Because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

10/12/2018 (SUPPL-62)

Approved Drug Label (PDF)

5 Warnings and Precautions

5.4 Hyperkalemia

(addition underlined)

Monitor serum potassium periodically and treat appropriately. Dosage reduction or discontinuation of COZAAR may be required.

Concomitant use of other drugs that may increase serum potassium may lead to hyperkalemia.

17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)

Patient Information

(addition underlined)

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. COZAAR and certain other medicines may interact with each other. Especially tell your doctor if you are taking:

  • other medicines that may increase serum potassium