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Lexiscan

  • Generic Name: regadenoson injection
  • Brand Name: Lexiscan
  • Drug Class: How Do Diagnosing Imaging Agents Work?
Reviewed by Medsayfa.com Last updated May 06, 2023

Patient Information

Drug Interaction

Patients should be instructed to avoid consumption of any products containing methylxanthines, including caffeinated coffee, tea or other caffeinated beverages, caffeine-containing drug products, aminophylline and theophylline for at least 12 hours before a scheduled radionuclide MPI [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ].

Cardiovascular

Advise patients that they may be at increased risk of fatal and nonfatal heart attacks, abnormal heart rhythms, cardiac arrest, significant increase or decrease in blood pressure, or cerebrovascular accidents (stroke) with the use of LEXISCAN [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Hypersensitivity

Inform patients that allergic reactions have been reported with LEXISCAN. Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Respiratory

Advise patients with COPD or asthma about the need for administration of pre- and post-study bronchodilator therapy and to call their clinician if they experience any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing following an MPI study with LEXISCAN [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Seizures

Advise patients that they may be at increased risk of seizures. Question patients about a history of seizures [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Lactation

Advise a woman to pump and discard breast milk for 10 hours after LEXISCAN administration [see Use In Specific Populations].

Description

Regadenoson is an A2A adenosine receptor agonist that is a coronary vasodilator [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Regadenoson is chemically described as adenosine, 2-[4- [(methylamino)carbonyl]-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]-, monohydrate. Its structural formula is:

 

LEXISCAN® (regadenoson) Structural Formula Illustration

 

The molecular formula for regadenoson is C15H18N8O5 • H2O and its molecular weight is 408.37. LEXISCAN is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution for intravenous injection. The solution is clear and colorless. Each 1 mL in the 5 mL pre-filled syringe contains 0.084 mg of regadenoson monohydrate, corresponding to 0.08 mg regadenoson on an anhydrous basis, 10.9 mg dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate or 8.7 mg dibasic sodium phosphate anhydrous, 5.4 mg monobasic sodium phosphate monohydrate, 150 mg propylene glycol, 1 mg edetate disodium dihydrate, and Water for Injection, with pH between 6.3 and 7.7.

Indications

LEXISCAN® (regadenoson) injection is a pharmacologic stress agent indicated for radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in patients unable to undergo adequate exercise stress.

Dosage And Admintisration

The recommended dose of LEXISCAN is 5 mL (0.4 mg regadenoson) administered as an intravenous injection within 10 seconds.

  • Patients should be instructed to avoid consumption of any products containing methylxanthines, including caffeinated coffee, tea or other caffeinated beverages, caffeine-containing drug products, aminophylline and theophylline for at least 12 hours before a scheduled radionuclide MPI [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
  • Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer LEXISCAN if it contains particulate matter or is discolored.
  • Administer LEXISCAN as an intravenous injection within 10 seconds into a peripheral vein using a 22 gauge or larger catheter or needle.
  • Administer a 5 mL saline flush immediately after the injection of LEXISCAN.
  • Administer the radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging agent 10–20 seconds after the saline flush. The radionuclide may be injected directly into the same catheter as LEXISCAN.

How Supplied

Dosage Forms And Strengths

  • Single-dose pre-filled syringe: clear, colorless solution containing regadenoson 0.4 mg/5 mL (0.08 mg/mL).

Storage And Handling

LEXISCAN is supplied as a sterile, preservative-free solution containing 0.08 mg/mL regadenoson in the following package:

  • Single-dose 5 mL pre-filled plastic Ansyr® syringes with luer-lock fitting (NDC 0469-6501-89).

Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59°– 86°F).

Syringes Manufactured by: Hospira, Inc. Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA. Revised: May 2018

Side Effects

The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling.

  • Myocardial Ischemia [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Sinoatrial and Atrioventricular Nodal Block [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Atrial Fibrillation/Atrial Flutter [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Hypersensitivity, Including Anaphylaxis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Hypotension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Hypertension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Bronchoconstriction [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Seizure [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
  • Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]

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.

During clinical development, 1,651 patients were exposed to LEXISCAN, with most receiving 0.4 mg as a rapid (≤ 10 seconds) intravenous injection. Most of these patients received LEXISCAN in two clinical studies that enrolled patients who had no history of bronchospastic lung disease as well as no history of a cardiac conduction block of greater than first-degree AV block, except for patients with functioning artificial pacemakers. In these studies (Studies 1 and 2), 2,015 patients underwent myocardial perfusion imaging after administration of LEXISCAN (N = 1,337) or ADENOSCAN (N = 678). The population was 26–93 years of age (median 66 years), 70% male and primarily Caucasian (76% Caucasian, 7% African American, 9% Hispanic, 5% Asian). Table 1 shows the most frequently reported adverse reactions.

Overall, any adverse reaction occurred at similar rates between the study groups (80% for the LEXISCAN group and 83% for the ADENOSCAN group). Aminophylline was used to treat the reactions in 3% of patients in the LEXISCAN group and 2% of patients in the ADENOSCAN group. Most adverse reactions began soon after dosing, and generally resolved within approximately 15 minutes, except for headache which resolved in most patients within 30 minutes.

Table 1 Adverse Reactions in Studies 1 and 2 Pooled (Frequency ≥ 5%)

LEXISCAN N = 1,337 ADENOSCAN N = 678
Dyspnea 28% 26%
Headache 26% 17%
Flushing 16% 25%
Chest Discomfort 13% 18%
Angina Pectoris or ST Segment Depression 12% 18%
Dizziness 8% 7%
Chest Pain 7% 10%
Nausea 6% 6%
Abdominal Discomfort 5% 2%
Dysgeusia 5% 7%
Feeling Hot 5% 8%

 

ECG Abnormalities

The frequency of rhythm or conduction abnormalities following LEXISCAN or ADENOSCAN is shown in Table 2 [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Table 2 Rhythm or Conduction Abnormalities* in Studies 1 and 2

LEXISCAN
N / N evaluable (%)
ADENOSCAN
N / N evaluable (%)
Rhythm or conduction abnormalities 332/1275 (26%) 192/645 (30%)
Rhythm abnormalities 260/1275 (20%) 131/645 (20%)
PACs 86/1274 (7%) 57/645 (9%)
PVCs 179/1274 (14%) 79/645 (12%)
First-degree AV block (PR prolongation > 220 msec) 34/1209 (3%) 43/618 (7%)
Second-degree AV block 1/1209 (0.1%) 9/618 (1%)
AV conduction abnormalities (other than AV blocks) 1/1209 (0.1%) 0/618 (0%)
Ventricular conduction abnormalities 64/1152 (6%) 31/581 (5%)
* 12-lead ECGs were recorded before and for up to 2 hours after dosing.
 includes rhythm abnormalities (PACs, PVCs, atrial fibrillation/flutter, wandering atrial pacemaker, supraventricular or ventricular arrhythmia) or conduction abnormalities, including AV block.

 

Respiratory Abnormalities

In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 999 patients with asthma (n = 532) or stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 467), the overall incidence of pre-specified respiratory adverse reactions was greater in the LEXISCAN group compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001). Most respiratory adverse reactions resolved without therapy; a few patients received aminophylline or a short-acting bronchodilator. No differences were observed between treatment arms in the reduction of >15% from baseline at two-hours in FEV1 (Table 3).

Table 3 Respiratory Adverse Effects*

Asthma Cohort Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Cohort
LEXISCAN
(N=356)
Placebo
(N=176)
LEXISCAN
(N=316)
Placebo
(N=151)
Overall Pre-specified Respiratory Adverse Reaction 12.9% 2.3% 19.0% 4.0%
  Dyspnea 10.7% 1.1% 18.0% 2.6%
  Wheezing 3.1% 1.1% 0.9% 0.7%
FEV1 reduction >15% 1.1% 2.9% 4.2% 5.4%
* All patients continued the use of their respiratory medications as prescribed prior to administration of LEXISCAN.
 Patients may have reported more than one type of adverse reaction. Adverse reactions were collected up to 24 hours following drug administration. Pre-specified respiratory adverse reactions included dyspnea, wheezing, obstructive airway disorder, dyspnea exertional, and tachypnea.
 Change from baseline at 2 hours.

 

Renal Impairment

In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 504 patients (LEXISCAN n=334 and placebo n=170) with a diagnosis or risk factors for coronary artery disease and NKFK/DOQI Stage III or IV renal impairment (defined as GFR 15-59 mL/min/1.73 m2), no serious adverse events were reported through the 24-hour follow-up period.

Inadequate Exercise Stress

In an open-label, multi-center trial evaluating LEXISCAN administration following inadequate exercise stress, 1,147 patients were randomized into one of two groups. Each group underwent two LEXISCAN stress myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) procedures. Group 1 received LEXISCAN 3 minutes following inadequate exercise in the first LEXISCAN stress (MPI 1). Group 2 rested 1 hour after inadequate exercise to allow hemodynamics to return to baseline prior to receiving LEXISCAN (MPI 1). Both groups returned for a second stress MPI 1-14 days later and received LEXISCAN without exercise (MPI 2).

The most common adverse reactions are similar in type and incidence to those in Table 1 above for both Groups. The timing of the administration of LEXISCAN following inadequate exercise did not alter the common adverse reaction profile.

Table 4 shows a comparison of cardiac events of interest for the two groups [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. The cardiac events were numerically higher in Group 1.

Table 4 Cardiac Events of Interest in Inadequate Exercise Stress Study

Cardiac Event* Group 1 / MPI 1
LEXISCAN 3 minutes following exercise
(N=575)
Group 2 / MPI 1 LEXISCAN 1 hour following exercise
(N=567)
Holter/12-Lead ECG Abnormality 17 (3.0%) 3 (0.5%)
  ST-T Depression (≥ 2 mm) 13 (2.3%) 2 (0.4%)
  ST-T Elevation (≥ 1 mm) 3 (0.5%) 1 (0.2%)
Acute coronary syndrome 1 (0.2%) 0
Myocardial infarction 1 (0.2%) 0
* A clinically significant cardiac event was defined as any of the following events found on the Holter ECG/12-lead ECG within one hour after regadenoson administration: ventricular arrhythmias (sustained ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, Torsade de Pointes, ventricular flutter); ST-T depression (≥ 2 mm); ST-T elevation (≥ 1 mm); AV block (2:1 AV block, AV Mobitz I, AV Mobitz II, complete heart block); sinus arrest > 3 seconds in duration
Or

  • a Treatment Emergent Adverse Event (TEAE) per the MedDRA SMQ (narrow Scope) for myocardial infarction

Or

  • a TEAE preferred term (PT) of angina unstable within 24 hours of regadenoson administration.

 

Post-Marketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been reported from worldwide marketing experience with regadenoson. 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.

Cardiovascular

Myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, ventricular arrhythmias, supraventricular tachyarrhythmias including atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response (new-onset or recurrent), atrial flutter, heart block (including thirddegree block), asystole, marked hypertension, symptomatic hypotension in association with transient ischemic attack, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), seizures and syncope [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS] have been reported. Some events required intervention with fluids and/or aminophylline [see OVERDOSE]. QTc prolongation shortly after LEXISCAN administration has been reported.

Central Nervous System

Tremor, seizure, transient ischemic attack, and cerebrovascular accident including intracranial hemorrhage [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Gastrointestinal

Abdominal pain, occasionally severe, has been reported a few minutes after LEXISCAN administration, in association with nausea, vomiting, or myalgias; administration of aminophylline, an adenosine antagonist, appeared to lessen the pain. Diarrhea and fecal incontinence have also been reported following LEXISCAN administration.

Hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis, angioedema, cardiac or respiratory arrest, respiratory distress, decreased oxygen saturation, hypotension, throat tightness, urticaria, rashes have occurred and have required treatment including resuscitation [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Musculoskeletal

Musculoskeletal pain has occurred, typically 10-20 minutes after LEXISCAN administration; the pain was occasionally severe, localized in the arms and lower back and extended to the buttocks and lower legs bilaterally. Administration of aminophylline appeared to lessen the pain.

Respiratory

Respiratory arrest, dyspnea and wheezing have been reported following LEXISCAN administration.

Drug Interactions

No formal pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies have been conducted with LEXISCAN.

Effects Of Other Drugs On LEXISCAN

  • Methylxanthines (e.g., caffeine, aminophylline and theophylline) are non-specific adenosine receptor antagonists that interfere with the vasodilation activity of LEXISCAN [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and  PATIENT INFORMATION]. Patients should avoid consumption of any products containing methylxanthines as well as any drugs containing theophylline or aminophylline for at least 12 hours before LEXISCAN administration. Aminophylline may be used to attenuate severe or persistent adverse reactions to LEXISCAN [see OVERDOSE].
  • In clinical studies, LEXISCAN was administered to patients taking other cardioactive drugs (i.e., β- blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, nitrates, cardiac glycosides, and angiotensin receptor blockers) without reported adverse reactions or apparent effects on efficacy.
  • Dipyridamole may change the effects of LEXISCAN. When possible, withhold dipyridamole for at least two days prior to LEXISCAN administration.

Effect Of LEXISCAN On Other Drugs

Regadenoson does not inhibit the metabolism of substrates for CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP3A4 in human liver microsomes, indicating that it is unlikely to alter the pharmacokinetics of drugs metabolized by these cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Warnings

Included as part of the “PRECAUTIONS” Section

Precautions

Myocardial Ischemia

Fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), ventricular arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest have occurred following LEXISCAN injection. Avoid use in patients with symptoms or signs of acute myocardial ischemia, for example unstable angina or cardiovascular instability; these patients may be at greater risk of serious cardiovascular reactions to LEXISCAN. Cardiac resuscitation equipment and trained staff should be available before administering LEXISCAN. Adhere to the recommended duration of injection [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. As noted in an animal study, longer injection times may increase the duration and magnitude of increase in coronary blood flow [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. If serious reactions to LEXISCAN occur, consider the use of aminophylline, an adenosine antagonist, to shorten the duration of increased coronary blood flow induced by LEXISCAN [see OVERDOSE].

Sinoatrial And Atrioventricular Nodal Block

Adenosine receptor agonists, including LEXISCAN, can depress the SA and AV nodes and may cause first-, second- or third-degree AV block, or sinus bradycardia requiring intervention. In clinical trials first-degree AV block (PR prolongation > 220 msec) developed in 3% of patients within 2 hours of LEXISCAN administration; transient second-degree AV block with one dropped beat was observed in one patient receiving LEXISCAN. In post-marketing experience, third-degree heart block and asystole within minutes of LEXISCAN administration have occurred [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Atrial Fibrillation/Atrial Flutter

New-onset or recurrent atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response and atrial flutter have been reported following LEXISCAN injection [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Hypersensitivity, Including Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis, angioedema, cardiac or respiratory arrest, respiratory distress, decreased oxygen saturation, hypotension, throat tightness, urticaria and rashes have occurred. In clinical trials, hypersensitivity reactions were reported in fewer than 1 percent of patients [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Have personnel and resuscitative equipment immediately available.

Hypotension

Adenosine receptor agonists, including LEXISCAN, induce arterial vasodilation and hypotension. In clinical trials, decreased systolic blood pressure (> 35 mm Hg) was observed in 7% of patients and decreased diastolic blood pressure (> 25 mm Hg) was observed in 4% of patients within 45 minutes of LEXISCAN administration. The risk of serious hypotension may be higher in patients with autonomic dysfunction, hypovolemia, left main coronary artery stenosis, stenotic valvular heart disease, pericarditis or pericardial effusions, or stenotic carotid artery disease with cerebrovascular insufficiency. In post-marketing experience, syncope, transient ischemic attacks and seizures have been observed [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Hypertension

Administration of adenosine receptor agonists, including LEXISCAN, may result in clinically significant increases in blood pressure in some patients. Among patients who experienced an increase in blood pressure in clinical trials, the increase was observed within minutes of LEXISCAN administration. Most increases resolved within 10 to 15 minutes, but in some cases, increases were observed at 45 minutes following administration [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. In post-marketing experience, cases of potentially clinically significant hypertension have been reported, particularly with underlying hypertension and when low-level exercise was included in the MPI [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Bronchoconstriction

Adenosine receptor agonists, including LEXISCAN, may cause dyspnea, bronchoconstriction, and respiratory compromise. Appropriate bronchodilator therapy and resuscitative measures should be available prior to and following LEXISCAN administration [see ADVERSE REACTIONSCLINICAL PHARMACOLOGYOVERDOSE and  PATIENT INFORMATION].

Seizure

LEXISCAN may lower the seizure threshold; obtain a seizure history. New-onset or recurrence of convulsive seizures has occurred following LEXISCAN injection. Some seizures are prolonged and require emergent anticonvulsive management. Aminophylline may increase the risk of seizures associated with LEXISCAN injection. Methylxanthine use is not recommended in patients who experience a seizure in association with LEXISCAN administration.

Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke)

Hemorrhagic and ischemic cerebrovascular accidents have occurred. Hemodynamic effects of LEXISCAN including hypotension or hypertension may be associated with these adverse reactions [see Hypotension and Hypertension].

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Regadenoson was negative in the Ames bacterial mutation assay, chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.

Long-term animal studies have not been conducted to evaluate LEXISCAN’s carcinogenic potential or potential effects on fertility.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no available data on LEXISCAN use in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, adverse developmental outcomes were observed with the administration of regadenoson to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis only at doses that produced maternal toxicity (see Data). In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

Reproductive studies in rats showed that regadenoson doses 10 and 20 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) based on body surface area caused reduced fetal body weights and significant ossification delays in fore- and hind limb phalanges and metatarsals; maternal toxicity also occurred at these doses. Skeletal variations were increased in all treated groups. In rabbits, maternal toxicity occurred at regadenoson doses administered during organogenesis at 4 times the MRHD; however, there were no teratogenic effects in offspring at this dose. At higher doses, 12 and 20 times the MRHD, maternal toxicity occurred along with increased embryo-fetal loss and fetal malformations.

Lactation

Risk Summary

There is no information on the presence of regadenoson in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential risk of serious cardiac reactions in the breastfed infant, advise the nursing mother to pump and discard breast milk for 10 hours after administration of LEXISCAN.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Of the 1,337 patients receiving LEXISCAN in Studies 1 and 2, 56% were 65 years of age and over and 24% were 75 years of age and over. Older patients (> 75 years of age) had a similar adverse event profile compared to younger patients (< 65 years of age), but had a higher incidence of hypotension (2% vs. ≤ 1%).

Renal Impairment

No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment including patients with end stage renal disease and/or dependent on dialysis [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Overdose

LEXISCAN overdosage may result in serious reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. In a study of healthy volunteers, symptoms of flushing, dizziness and increased heart rate were assessed as intolerable at LEXISCAN doses greater than 0.02 mg/kg.

Aminophylline To Reverse Effects

Methylxanthines, such as caffeine, aminophylline, and theophylline, are competitive adenosine receptor antagonists and aminophylline has been used to terminate persistent pharmacodynamic effects. Aminophylline may be administered in doses ranging from 50 mg to 250 mg by slow intravenous injection (50 mg to 100 mg over 30–60 seconds). Methylxanthine use is not recommended in patients who experience a seizure in association with LEXISCAN administration [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Contraindications

Do not administer LEXISCAN to patients with:

  • Second- or third-degree AV block, or
  • sinus node dysfunction

unless these patients have a functioning artificial pacemaker [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Clinical Pharmacology

Mechanism Of Action

Regadenoson is a low affinity agonist (Ki ≈ 1.3 μM) for the A2A adenosine receptor, with at least 10-fold lower affinity for the A1 adenosine receptor (Ki > 16.5 μM), and weak, if any, affinity for the A2B and A3 adenosine receptors. Activation of the A2A adenosine receptor by regadenoson produces coronary vasodilation and increases coronary blood flow (CBF).

Pharmacodynamics

Coronary Blood Flow

LEXISCAN causes a rapid increase in CBF which is sustained for a short duration. In patients undergoing coronary catheterization, pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonography was used to measure the average peak velocity (APV) of coronary blood flow before and up to 30 minutes after administration of regadenoson (0.4 mg, intravenously). Mean APV increased to greater than twice baseline by 30 seconds and decreased to less than twice the baseline level within 10 minutes [see Pharmacokinetics ].

Myocardial uptake of the radiopharmaceutical is proportional to CBF. Because LEXISCAN increases blood flow in normal coronary arteries with little or no increase in stenotic arteries, LEXISCAN causes relatively less uptake of the radiopharmaceutical in vascular territories supplied by stenotic arteries. MPI intensity after LEXISCAN administration is therefore greater in areas perfused by normal relative to stenosed arteries.

Effect Of Duration Of Injection

A study in dogs compared the effects of intravenous injection of 2.5 μg/kg regadenoson (in 10 mL) over 10 seconds and 30 seconds on CBF. The duration of a two-fold increase in CBF was 97±14 seconds (n=6) and 221±20 seconds (n=4), respectively, for the 10 second and 30 second injections. The peak effects (i.e., maximal increase) on CBF after the 10 second and 30 second injections were 217±15% and 297±33% above baseline, respectively. The times to peak effect on CBF were 17±2 seconds and 27±6 seconds, respectively.

Effect Of Aminophylline

Aminophylline (100 mg, administered by slow intravenous injection over 60 seconds) injected 1 minute after 0.4 mg LEXISCAN in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, was shown to shorten the duration of the coronary blood flow response to LEXISCAN as measured by pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonography [see OVERDOSE].

Effect Of Caffeine

Ingestion of caffeine decreases the ability to detect reversible ischemic defects. In a placebo-controlled, parallel group clinical study, patients with known or suspected myocardial ischemia received a baseline rest/stress MPI followed by a second stress MPI. Patients received caffeine or placebo 90 minutes before the second LEXISCAN stress MPI. Following caffeine administration (200 or 400 mg), the mean number of reversible defects identified was reduced by approximately 60%. This decrease was statistically significant [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and PATIENT INFORMATION].

Hemodynamic Effects

In clinical studies, the majority of patients had an increase in heart rate and a decrease in blood pressure within 45 minutes after administration of LEXISCAN. Maximum hemodynamic changes after LEXISCAN and ADENOSCAN in Studies 1 and 2 are summarized in Table 5.

Table 5 Hemodynamic Effects in Studies 1 and 2

Vital Sign Parameter LEXISCAN
N = 1,337
ADENOSCAN
N = 678
Heart Rate
> 100 bpm 22% 13%
Increase > 40 bpm 5% 3%
Systolic Blood Pressure
< 90 mm H 2% 3%
Decrease > 35 mm Hg 7% 8%
≥ 200 mm Hg 1.9% 1.9%
Increase ≥ 50 mm Hg 0.7% 0.8%
≥ 180 mm Hg and increase of ≥ 20 mm Hg from baseline 4.6% 3.2%
Diastolic Blood Pressure
< 50 mm Hg 2% 4%
Decrease > 25 mm Hg 4% 5%
≥ 115 mm Hg 0.9% 0.9%
Increase ≥ 30 mm Hg 0.5% 1.1%

 

Hemodynamic Effects Following Inadequate Exercise

In a clinical study, LEXISCAN was administered for MPI following inadequate exercise stress. More patients with LEXISCAN administration three minutes following inadequate exercise stress had an increase in heart rate and a decrease in systolic blood pressure compared with LEXISCAN administered at rest. The changes were not associated with any clinically significant adverse reactions. Maximum hemodynamic changes are presented in Table 6.

Table 6 Hemodynamic Effects in Inadequate Exercise Stress Study

Vital Sign Parameter Group 1 / MPI 1
LEXISCAN 3 minutes following exercise
(N=575)
Group 2 / MPI 1
LEXISCAN 1 hour following exercise
(N=567)
Heart Rate
> 100 bpm 44% 31%
Increase > 40 bpm 5% 16%
Systolic Blood Pressure
< 90 mm H 2% 4%
Decrease > 35 mm Hg 29% 10%
≥ 200 mm Hg 0.9% 0.4%
Increase ≥ 50 mm Hg 2% 0.4%
≥ 180 mm Hg and increase of ≥ 20 mm Hg from baseline 5% 2%
Diastolic Blood Pressure
< 50 mm Hg 3% 3%
Decrease > 25 mm Hg 6% 5%
≥ 115 mm Hg 0.7% 0.4%
Increase ≥ 30 mm Hg 2% 1%

 

Respiratory Effects

The A and A adenosine receptors have been implicated in the pathophysiology of bronchoconstriction in susceptible individuals (i.e., asthmatics). In in vitro studies, regadenoson has not been shown to have appreciable binding affinity for the A2B and A3 adenosine receptors.

In a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 999 patients with a diagnosis, or risk factors for, coronary artery disease and concurrent asthma or COPD, the incidence of respiratory adverse reactions (dyspnea, wheezing) was greater with LEXISCAN compared to placebo. Moderate (2.5%) or severe (< 1%) respiratory reactions were observed more frequently in the LEXISCAN group compared to placebo [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Pharmacokinetics

In healthy subjects, the regadenoson plasma concentration-time profile is multi-exponential in nature and best characterized by 3-compartment model. The maximal plasma concentration of regadenoson is achieved within 1 to 4 minutes after injection of LEXISCAN and parallels the onset of the pharmacodynamic response. The halflife of this initial phase is approximately 2 to 4 minutes. An intermediate phase follows, with a half-life on average of 30 minutes coinciding with loss of the pharmacodynamic effect. The terminal phase consists of a decline in plasma concentration with a half-life of approximately 2 hours [see Pharmacodynamics]. Within the dose range of 0.3–20 μg/kg in healthy subjects, clearance, terminal half-life or volume of distribution do not appear dependent upon the dose.

A population pharmacokinetic analysis including data from subjects and patients demonstrated that regadenoson clearance decreases in parallel with a reduction in creatinine clearance and clearance increases with increased body weight. Age, gender, and race have minimal effects on the pharmacokinetics of regadenoson.

Specific Populations

Renally Impaired Patients

The disposition of regadenoson was studied in 18 patients with various degrees of renal function and in 6 healthy subjects. With increasing renal impairment, from mild (CLcr 50 to < 80 mL/min) to moderate (CLcr 30 to < 50 mL/min) to severe renal impairment (CLcr < 30 mL/min), the fraction of regadenoson excreted unchanged in urine and the renal clearance decreased, resulting in increased elimination half-lives and AUC values compared to healthy subjects (CLcr ≥ 80 mL/min). However, the maximum observed plasma concentrations as well as volumes of distribution estimates were similar across the groups. The plasma concentration-time profiles were not significantly altered in the early stages after dosing when most pharmacologic effects are observed. No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment.

Patients With End Stage Renal Disease

The pharmacokinetics of regadenoson in patients on dialysis has not been assessed; however, in an in vitro study regadenoson was found to be dialyzable.

Hepatically Impaired Patients

The influence of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of regadenoson has not been evaluated. Because greater than 55% of the dose is excreted in the urine as unchanged drug and factors that decrease clearance do not affect the plasma concentration in the early stages after dosing when clinically meaningful pharmacologic effects are observed, no dose adjustment is needed in patients with hepatic impairment.

Geriatric Patients

Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis, age has a minor influence on the pharmacokinetics of regadenoson. No dose adjustment is needed in elderly patients.

Metabolism

The metabolism of regadenoson is unknown in humans. Incubation with rat, dog, and human liver microsomes as well as human hepatocytes produced no detectable metabolites of regadenoson.

Excretion

In healthy volunteers, 57% of the regadenoson dose is excreted unchanged in the urine (range 19-77%), with an average plasma renal clearance around 450 mL/min, i.e., in excess of the glomerular filtration rate. This indicates that renal tubular secretion plays a role in regadenoson elimination.

Animal Toxicology And/Or Pharmacology

Cardiomyopathy

Minimal cardiomyopathy (myocyte necrosis and inflammation) was observed in rats following single-dose administration of regadenoson. Increased incidence of minimal cardiomyopathy was observed on day 2 in males at doses of 0.08, 0.2 and 0.8 mg/kg (1/5, 2/5, and 5/5) and in females (2/5) at 0.8 mg/kg. In a separate study in male rats, the mean arterial pressure was decreased by 30 to 50% of baseline values for up to 90 minutes at regadenoson doses of 0.2 and 0.8 mg/kg, respectively. No cardiomyopathy was noted in rats sacrificed 15 days following single administration of regadenoson. The mechanism of the cardiomyopathy induced by regadenoson was not elucidated in this study but was associated with the hypotensive effects of regadenoson. Profound hypotension induced by vasoactive drugs is known to cause cardiomyopathy in rats.

Local Irritation

Intravenous administration of LEXISCAN to rabbits resulted in perivascular hemorrhage, vein vasculitis, inflammation, thrombosis and necrosis, with inflammation and thrombosis persisting through day 8 (last observation day). Perivascular administration of LEXISCAN to rabbits resulted in hemorrhage, inflammation, pustule formation and epidermal hyperplasia, which persisted through day 8 except for the hemorrhage which resolved. Subcutaneous administration of LEXISCAN to rabbits resulted in hemorrhage, acute inflammation, and necrosis; on day 8 muscle fiber regeneration was observed.

Clinical Studies

Agreement Between LEXISCAN And ADENOSCAN

The efficacy and safety of LEXISCAN were determined relative to ADENOSCAN in two randomized, doubleblind studies (Studies 1 and 2) in 2,015 patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease who were indicated for pharmacologic stress MPI. A total of 1,871 of these patients had images considered valid for the primary efficacy evaluation, including 1,294 (69%) men and 577 (31%) women with a median age of 66 years (range 26–93 years of age). Each patient received an initial stress scan using ADENOSCAN (6-minute infusion using a dose of 0.14 mg/kg/min, without exercise) with a radionuclide gated SPECT imaging protocol. After the initial scan, patients were randomized to either LEXISCAN or ADENOSCAN, and received a second stress scan with the same radionuclide imaging protocol as that used for the initial scan. The median time between scans was 7 days (range of 1–104 days).

The most common cardiovascular histories included hypertension (81%), CABG, PTCA or stenting (51%), angina (63%), and history of myocardial infarction (41%) or arrhythmia (33%); other medical history included diabetes (32%) and COPD (5%). Patients with a recent history of serious uncontrolled ventricular arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, or unstable angina, a history of greater than first-degree AV block, or with symptomatic bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, or a heart transplant were excluded. A number of patients took cardioactive medications on the day of the scan, including β-blockers (18%), calcium channel blockers (9%), and nitrates (6%). In the pooled study population, 68% of patients had 0–1 segments showing reversible defects on the initial scan, 24% had 2–4 segments, and 9% had ≥ 5 segments.

Comparison of the images obtained with LEXISCAN to those obtained with ADENOSCAN was performed as follows. Using the 17-segment model, the number of segments showing a reversible perfusion defect was calculated for the initial ADENOSCAN study and for the randomized study obtained using LEXISCAN or ADENOSCAN. The agreement rate for the image obtained with LEXISCAN or ADENOSCAN relative to the initial ADENOSCAN image was calculated by determining how frequently the patients assigned to each initial ADENOSCAN category (0–1, 2–4, 5–17 reversible segments) were placed in the same category with the randomized scan. The agreement rates for LEXISCAN and ADENOSCAN were calculated as the average of the agreement rates across the three categories determined by the initial scan. Studies 1 and 2 each demonstrated that LEXISCAN is similar to ADENOSCAN in assessing the extent of reversible perfusion abnormalities (Table 7).

Table 7 Agreement Rates in Studies 1 and 2

Study 1 Study 2
ADENOSCAN – ADENOSCAN Agreement Rate (± SE) 61 ± 3% 64 ± 4%
ADENOSCAN – LEXISCAN Agreement Rate (± SE) 62 ± 2% 63 ± 3%
Rate Difference (LEXISCAN – ADENOSCAN) (± SE)
95% Confidence Interval
1 ± 4%
-7.5, 9.2%
-1 ± 5%
-11.2, 8.7%

 

Use Of LEXISCAN In Patients With Inadequate Exercise Stress

The efficacy and safety of LEXISCAN administered 3 minutes (Group 1) or 1 hour (Group 2) following inadequate exercise stress were evaluated in an open-label randomized, multi-center, non-inferiority study. Adequate exercise was defined as ≥ 85% maximum predicted heart rate and ≥ 5 METS. SPECT MPI was performed 60-90 minutes after LEXISCAN administration in each group (MPI 1). Patients returned 1-14 days later to undergo a second stress MPI with LEXISCAN without exercise (MPI 2).

All patients were referred for evaluation of coronary artery disease. Of the 1,147 patients randomized, a total of 1,073 patients received LEXISCAN and had interpretable SPECT scans at all visits; 538 in Group 1 and 535 in Group 2. The median age of the patients was 62 years (range 28 to 90 years) and included 633 (59%) men and 440 (41%) women.

Images from MPI 1 and MPI 2 for the two groups were compared for presence or absence of perfusion defects. The level of agreement between the MPI 1 and the MPI 2 reads in Group 1 was similar to the level of agreement between MPI 1 and MPI 2 reads in Group 2. However, two patients receiving LEXISCAN 3 minutes following inadequate exercise experienced a serious cardiac adverse reaction. No serious cardiac adverse reactions occurred in patients receiving LEXISCAN 1 hour following inadequate exercise stress [see ADVERSE REACTIONSCLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

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