Drug Safety-related Labeling Changes (SrLC) Database
| ANDA | Abbreviated New Drug Application |
| BLA | Biologics License Application |
| CDER | Center for Drug Evaluation and Research |
| MG | Medication Guide |
| NDA | New Drug Application |
| PCI | Patient Counseling Information |
| PI | Patient Information |
| PLR | Physician Labeling Rule |
| PLLR | Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule |
| Italics | For the most part, italics indicate an FDA comment such as:
Additions and/or revisions underlined These italics usually appear at the beginning of the section. In some cases, italics may be an inherent part of the label, and will most often appear in the body of the section. |
| Underlines | Any text that is underlined indicates text that has been added or revised. There are exceptions where underlining occurs in a section subtitle or heading. This is the case when there is just one word underlined in the body of the text. |
Sections
| BW | Box Warning |
| WP | Warnings and Precautions all in one section (PLR-format) Warnings as one section (pre-PLR format) Precautions as one section (pre-PLR format) |
| AR | Adverse Reactions (in pre-PLR format, this may be a subheading under precautions). |
| DI | Drug Interactions (in pre-PLR format, this may be a subheading under precautions). |
| USP | Use in Specific Populations (Inclusive on one or more of the following: Pregnancy; Lactation (PLLR- format); Nursing Mothers (pre-PLLR format); Females and Males of Reproductive Potential (PLLR format only); Pediatric Use, Geriatric Use, Renal Impairment, Hepatic Impairment, Sex, Race (these last six may be a subheading of precautions if label in pre-PLLR format. |
| PCI/PI/MG | Patient Counseling Information (PLR format only) - summarizes the information that a health care provider should convey to a patient (or caregiver when applicable) when a counseling discussion is taking place (e.g., a physician prescribing a drug during an office visit, a nurse providing discharge instructions at a hospital, or a pharmacist conveying information at a pharmacy). Patient Information - FDA approved patient labeling. Medication Guide - paper handouts that come with many prescription medicines. The guides address issues that are specific to particular drugs and drug classes, and they contain FDA-approved information that can help patients avoid serious adverse events. |
Only NDAs and CDER regulated BLAs are included in this database. ANDAs are not included.
Applications that remain active, even if the product has been discontinued, undergo safety-related labeling changes.
PYLERA (NDA-050786)
(BISMUTH SUBCITRATE POTASSIUM; METRONIDAZOLE; TETRACYCLINE)
Safety-related Labeling Changes Approved by FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)
03/31/2025 (SUPPL-29)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.5 Severe Cutaneous Adverse ReactionsAdditions and revisions underlined:
Metronidazole: 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.
Tetracycline: Fixed drug eruptions have occurred with tetracycline and have been associated with worsening severity upon subsequent administrations, including generalize bullous fixed drug eruption [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)]. If severe skin reactions occur, discontinue PYLERA immediately, and institute appropriate therapy.
07/08/2024 (SUPPL-26)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.5 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
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.
6 Adverse Reactions
6.3 Other Important Adverse Reactions from Labeling for the Individual Components of PYLERA
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
Metronidazole
…
Hypersensitivity/Immune system disorders: Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)], urtica ria , erythematous rash, flushing, nasal congestion, dryness of the mouth (or vagina or vulva), and fever [see Contraindications (4.6)].
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Pancreatitis.
Nervous system disorders: Convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis, optic and peripheral neuropathy, headache, syncope, dizziness, vertigo, incoordination, ataxia, tinnitus, hearing impairment, hearing loss, confusion, dysarthria, irrita bility, depression, weakness, and insomnia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)
PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Additions and/or revisions underlined:
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)].
12/15/2021 (SUPPL-25)
4 Contraindications
4.4 Cockayne Syndrome
New subsection added
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)].
6 Adverse Reactions
6.3 Other Important Adverse Reactions from Labeling for the Individual Components of PYLERAMetronidazole
…
Hepatic: Cases of severe irreversible hepatotoxicity/acute liver failure, including cases with fatal outcomes with very rapid onset after initiation of systemic use of metronidazole, have been reported in patients with Cockayne Syndrome (latency from drug start to signs of liver failure as short as 2 days) [see Contraindications (4.4)].
…
03/05/2021 (SUPPL-23)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.14 Drug InteractionsAdditions underlined
…
Drugs that Prolong the QT interval
QT prolongation has been reported with metronidazole, a component of
PYLERA, particularly when administered with drugs with the potential for
prolonging the QT interval.
6 Adverse Reactions
6.3 Other Important Adverse Reactions from Labeling for the Individual Components of PYLERAAdditions underlined
Metronidazole
…
Cardiac disorders: QT prolongation has been reported with metronidazole, particularly when administered with drugs with the potential for prolonging the QT interval. Flattening of the T-wave may be seen in electrocardiographic tracings.
…
01/25/2018 (SUPPL-17)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.15 Risk of Hepatotoxicity and Death in Patients with Cockayne Syndrome(Newly added subsection)
Cases of severe hepatotoxicity/acute hepatic failure, including cases with a fatal outcome with very rapid onset after treatment initiation in patients with Cockayne syndrome have been reported with products containing metronidazole for systemic use. In this population, metronidazole should therefore be used after careful benefit-risk assessment and only if no alternative treatment is available. Obtain liver function tests prior to the start of therapy, within the first 2-3 days after initiation of therapy, frequently during therapy and after end of treatment. Discontinue metronidazole if elevation of liver function occurs, and monitor liver function tests until the baseline values are reached. Advise patients with Cockayne syndrome to stop taking metronidazole immediately if they experience any symptoms of potential liver injury, such as abdominal pain, nausea, change in stool color or jaundice, and to contact their healthcare provider.
05/30/2017 (SUPPL-16)
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.10 Increased Plasma Concentrations in Patients with Hepatic Impairment(additions underlined)
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).
8 Use in Specific Populations
8.7 Hepatic Impairment(additions underlined)
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
01/25/2017 (SUPPL-12)
4 Contraindications
4.4 Severe Renal Impairment(Newly added subsection)
PYLERA is contraindicated during pregnancy.
5 Warnings and Precautions
5.1 Potential for Carcinogenicity(Newly added subsection)
Metronidazole 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. It is unknown whether metronidazole is associated with carcinogenicity in humans.
(Newly added subsection)
Patients with hepatic impairment metabolize metronidazole slowly, with resultant accumulation of metronidazole in the plasma. Use PYLERA with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. PYLERA may not be appropriate for patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C).
(Newly added subsection)
Skin and subcutaneous disorders including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis and DRESS syndrome (drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) have been reported. Discontinue treatment at the first evidence of a cutaneous reaction.
(Newly added subsection)
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. Advise women of child-bearing potential to use a different or additional form of contraception while taking PYLERA.
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. Closely monitor prothrombin time, International Normalized Ratio (INR), or other suitable anticoagulation tests if PYLERA is administered concomitantly with warfarin. Patients should also be monitored for evidence of bleeding.
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. Monitor serum lithium and serum creatinine concentrations daily for several days after beginning treatment with PYLERA to detect any increase that may precede clinical symptoms of lithium toxicity.
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.
(Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
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.
(Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
Metronidazole: Convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis and peripheral neuropathy (including optic neuropathy) have been reported.
Tetracycline: Intracranial hypertension (IH), including pseudotumor cerebri, has been associated with the use of tetracyclines. Clinical manifestations of IH include headache, blurred vision, diplopia, and vision loss; papilledema can be found on fundoscopy. Women of childbearing age who are overweight or have a history of IH are at greater risk for developing tetracycline associated IH. Concomitant use of isotretinoin should be avoided because isotretinoin is also known to cause IH.
Although IH typically resolves after discontinuation of treatment, the possibility for permanent visual loss exists. If visual disturbance occurs during treatment, prompt ophthalmologic evaluation is warranted. Since intracranial pressure can remain elevated for weeks after drug cessation, patients should be monitored until they stabilize.
(Revised subsection title)
6 Adverse Reactions
6.2 Postmarketing Experience(Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
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)
(Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
Metronidazole
Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, anorexia, metallic taste, furry tongue, glossitis, stomatitis and candida overgrowth.
Hypersensitivity/Immune system disorders: Urticaria, erythematous rash, flushing, nasal congestion, dryness of the mouth (or vagina or vulva), and fever.
Nervous system disorders: Convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis, optic and peripheral neuropathy, headache, syncope, dizziness, vertigo, incoordination, ataxia, confusion, dysarthria, irritability, depression, weakness, and insomnia.
Dermatologic disorders: Erythematous rash and pruritus.
Renal and urinary disorders: Dysuria, cystitis, polyuria, incontinence, darkened urine, and a sense of pelvic pressure.
Other: Dyspareunia, decrease of libido, proctitis, joint pains.
Tetracycline Hydrochloride
Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, glossitis, black hairy tongue, dysphagia, enterocolitis, inflammatory lesions (with Candida overgrowth) in the anogenital region, esophagitis and esophageal ulceration.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Maculopapular and erythematous rashes, onycholysis, discoloration of the nails, exfoliative dermatitis and photosensitivity have been rarely reported.
Liver: Hepatotoxicity and liver failure.
Hypersensitivity reactions: Urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, pericarditis, exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus, and serum sickness-like reactions.
7 Drug Interactions
7.8 Busulfan(Newly added subsection)
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.
8 Use in Specific Populations
8.1 Pregnancy(Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule (PLLR) Conversion; Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
Risk Summary
PYLERA is contraindicated in women who are pregnant because treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection can be delayed in pregnant women, and the use of drugs of the tetracycline class during the second and third trimester pregnancy can also cause permanent discoloration of the teeth (yellow-gray brown) and possibly inhibit bone development. Administration of oral tetracycline to pregnant rats at various doses resulted in yellow fluorescence in teeth and bones in the newborn animals. There are maternal risks with high intravenous doses of tetracycline. Metronidazole usage in pregnancy has been associated with certain congenital anomalies. In animals, no fetotoxicity was observed when metronidazole was orally administered to pregnant Themice at approximately 5% of the indicated human dose. There are no human or animal data on the use of bismuth subcitrate potassium during pregnancy. Although there are data on the separate components, there are no available data on the use of PYLERA in pregnant women.
Clinical Considerations
Maternal Adverse Reactions
Tetracycline 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.
Data
Human Data
Bismuth subcitrate potassium
There are no human data on the use of bismuth subcitrate potassium during pregnancy.
(Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule (PLLR) Conversion; Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
Risk Summary
Two of the individual components of PYLERA, tetracycline and metronidazole, are present in human milk at concentrations similar to maternal serum levels. It is not known whether bismuth subcitrate, the third component of PYLERA is present in human milk. It is not known what effect metronidazole, tetracycline or bismuth has on the breastfed infant or on milk production…Metronidazole transfers to human milk, and infant serum levels can be close to or comparable to infant therapeutic levels. Because of the potential risk of tumorigenicity shown in animal studies with metronidazole, a woman should pump and discard human milk for the duration of PYLERA therapy, and for 2 days after therapy ends, and feed her infant stored human milk (collected prior to therapy) or formula.
17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION(Additions and/or revisions are underlined)
Lactation
Advise the lactating women to pump and discard their milk during treatment with PYLERA and for 2 days after the therapy ends.
Drug Interactions
Busulfan
Cimetidine
Phenytoin and Phenobarbital
Dosing Information
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
Distributed By: Allergan USA, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612
