Alkindi Sprinkle

Patient Information

ALKINDI SPRINKLE
(æl’kindi spr-en-kle)
(hydrocortisone) oral granules

Read this Medication Guide before you start giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE to your child, and each time your child gets a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your child’s medical condition or treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

ALKINDI SPRINKLE may cause serious side effects, including:

Adrenal gland problems. Not giving enough ALKINDI SPRINKLE, stopping it, or switching to this after taking another hydrocortisone medicine (the same class of medicines as ) by mouth, can cause serious and life-threatening adrenal gland problems including death. Do not stop giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE without talking to your healthcare provider. Tell your healthcare provider if your child has any of these symptoms:

• loss of appetite
• fatigue
• weakness
• joint pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• low blood sugar
• feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• problems with body salt (electrolyte) levels

Your healthcare provider will change the dose of  depending on your child’s size. Tell your healthcare provider if your child cannot swallow medicines by mouth. During episodes of acute infections, surgery, major trauma or if your child cannot take medicines by mouth, your healthcare provider may recommend increased doses of  or use of corticosteroid medicines given directly into the bloodstream instead.

The amount of hydrocortisone in a dose of  may not be the same as in previous hydrocortisone medicines that your child takes by mouth if these oral hydrocortisone medicines have been changed (for example, crushed or compounded). When switching to , your healthcare provider may need to prescribe a starting dose of  that is different from previous hydrocortisone medicines that your child may have been taking by mouth. Watch your child closely after being switched to and contact your healthcare provider if your child has any symptoms of adrenal gland problems. Your healthcare provider may need to change the dose of it.

See “What are the possible side effects of ALKINDI SPRINKLE?” for more information about side effects.

What is ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

ALKINDI SPRINKLE is a prescription medicine that contains a medicine hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids. Hydrocortisone is a synthetic version of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is made naturally by the adrenal glands in the body. ALKINDI SPRINKLE (hydrocortisone) is a man-made (synthetic) corticosteroid used to replace the body’s cortisol when the adrenal glands do not make enough (adrenal insufficiency) in children from birth to 17 years of age.

Who should not take or be given ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

Do not give your child ALKINDI SPRINKLE if they:

• are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of the ingredients in it. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in it.
• have any reaction like swelling or shortness of breath after being given it. Get medical help right away and tell your healthcare provider as soon as possible as these can be signs of an allergic reaction.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

Before you give your child it, tell your healthcare provider about all of your child’s medical conditions, including if they:

• are feeling unwell, or their body is under stress because of surgery or trauma. Your healthcare provider may need to increase the dose of it for a short period of time.
• have a fever or infection.
• have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• are due for vaccinations. Taking ALKINDI SPRINKLE should not stop your child from being vaccinated. Tell your healthcare provider when your child is due for vaccinations.
• are scheduled for surgery.
• cannot swallow medicines by mouth or are fed through a nasogastric or gastric tube.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ALKINDI SPRINKLE will harm your child’s unborn baby. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if your child is pregnant or plans to become pregnant.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if  passes into the breast milk. You and your child’s healthcare provider should decide if your child will receive  while your child breastfeeds.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines your child takes, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines, food and drink can affect the way that  works and may mean that your healthcare provider needs to change your child’s dose of .

Especially tell your healthcare provider if your child:

• takes medicines used to treat fungal infections such as itraconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole.
• takes medicines used to treat bacterial infections such as rifampicin, rifabutin, erythromycin, andclarithromycin.
• takes medicines used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and AIDS such as ritonavir, efavirenz, and nevirapine.
• takes seizure medicines such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, and primidone.
• takes estrogen.
• takes warfarin.
• takes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen.
• takes cyclosporine.
• takes diabetes medicines.
• drinks grapefruit juice.

Know the medicines your child takes. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when your child gets a new medicine.

How should I give ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

• • See the detailed Instructions for Use that comes with your for information on how to give a dose of it the right way.
  • Give exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
  • Do not stop giving without talking to your healthcare provider. See “What is the most important information I should know about ALKINDI SPRINKLE?”
  • Do not let your child chew or crush the granules. Do not let your child swallow the capsule.
  • Do not let the capsules get wet as this may make some of the granules stick to the capsule.
  • Call your healthcare provider if granules come back up into your child’s mouth (regurgitation) or your child has vomiting after swallowing. Your child may not have received the full dose of and another dose of may be needed.
  • Your child may sometimes pass the it granules in their stools (bowel movement). It does not mean that is not working. Do not give your child another dose of it.

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>ALKINDI SPRINKL

E granules should not be given through a nasogastric tube because the granules may block the tube.
• If your child takes too much, call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room.

What are the possible side effects of ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

<b>it may cause serious side effects, including:

• See “What is the most important information I should know about it?”
• Infections. Taking too much dose can increase the risk of infections. Tell your healthcare provider if your child has any of these symptoms:
  • fever
  • cough
  • flu-like symptoms
  • stomach area (abdominal) pain
  • diarrhea
• Slowed growth in children. Taking too much ALKINDI SPRINKLE and taking it for long periods of time can affect your child’s growth. Tell your healthcare provider if you are worried about your child’s growth. Your healthcare provider will change the dose depending on your child’s size.
• Cushing’s syndrome. Taking too much ALKINDI SPRINKLE and taking it for long periods of time can cause Cushing’s syndrome. Tell your healthcare provider if your child has any of these symptoms:
  • weight gain
  • slowed growth in height
  • high blood sugar
  • high blood pressure
  • swelling
  • bruising easily
  • muscle weakness
  • red, round face
  • feeling depressed
  • mood swings
• Weak, brittle, or soft bones.</b> ALKINDI SPRINKLE can affect your child’s bones. Your healthcare provider will change the dose depending on your child’s size and will monitor your child’s growth and bones.
• Changes in behavior. Your child’s behavior may change after starting or during treatment with it. Tell your healthcare provider right away if your child develops any changes inbehavior including:
  • strong feelings of happiness and excitement
  • overexcited and overactivity
  • loss of contact with reality, with feelings that are not real, and mental confusion
  • depression
• Vision problems. Tell your healthcare provider if your child develops blurred vision or other vision problems during treatment with it. Your healthcare provider may have your child see an eye doctor.
• Gastrointestinal problems.</b> it can affect your child’s stomach or intestine. Tell your healthcare provider if your child has gastrointestinal illnesses such as stomach or intestinal ulcers, infections, or gastrointestinal surgery.

The most common side effects of ALKINDI SPRINKLE include:

• fluid retention
• behavioral and mood changes
• change in blood sugar (glucose) tolerance
• increased appetite and weight gain
• increase in blood pressure

These are not all the possible side effects of it. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

<b>How should I store it?

Store it at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

Store in the original bottle to protect from light.

After the bottle has been opened, use the capsules within 60 days.

Keep ALKINDI SPRINKLE and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General information about the safe and effective use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about that is written for health professionals.

What are the ingredients in ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

Active ingredient: hydrocortisone

Inactive ingredients:

granules: microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, ethyl cellulose.

capsule: hypromellose

printing ink: shellac, propylene glycol, concentrated ammonia solution.

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

ALKINDI SPRINKLE^®
(æl’kindi spr-en-kle)
(hydrocortisone) oral granules

Read this Instructions for Use before you start using, and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your child’s medical condition or treatment.Important information you need to know before giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE:

• <li

>ALKINDI SPRINKL

• E comes in a capsule that

must

 be opened before use.
• Do not let your child swallow the capsule. Small children may choke.
• Do not let your child chew or crush the granules in the capsule.
• Do not let the capsules get wet as this may make some of the granules stick to the capsule.
• Your healthcare provider will decide the right dose of  for your child. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the dose of it to give your child.
• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure how to prepare or give the prescribed dose of it to your child.
• Call your healthcare provider if granules come back up into your child’s mouth (regurgitation) or if your child has vomiting after swallowing. Your child may not have received the full dose of it and another dose of ALKINDI SPRINKLE may be needed.
• Your child may sometimes pass the granules in their stools (bowel movement). It does not mean that ALKINDI SPRINKLE is not working. Do not give your child another dose of it.

Supplies needed to give ALKINDI SPRINKLE:

• <li

>ALKINDI SPRINKL

E capsules for the prescribed dose
• 1 spoon
• soft food such as yogurt or pureed fruit or sip of fluids such as water, milk, breast milk, or formula

Preparing and giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE:

Step 1: Check the expiration date on the bottle. Do not use it after the expiration date on the bottle has passed.

Step 2: Remove the prescribed dose of  capsules from the bottle.

Step 3: Hold and Tap

Hold the capsule with the writing at the top. Tap the capsule to make sure the granules fall to the bottom.

Step 4: Squeeze

Gently squeeze the bottom of the capsule to loosen the top of the capsule from the bottom.

Step 5: Twist

Carefully twist off the top of the capsule.

<p>Step 6: Giving ALKINDI SPRINKLE<p>ALKINDI SPRINKLE can be given (a) with food onto a spoon, (b) without food onto a spoon, or (c) directly into the child’s mouth.Do not add the granules to a fluid before giving because it can result in less than the full dose given and it may leave a bitter taste in the mouth.

Pour all granules from each capsule directly onto a spoonful of cold or room temperature soft food (such as yogurt or fruit puree) and give right away.

Pour all granules directly onto a spoon and place them in the child’s mouth.

1. With food onto a spoon
2. Without food onto a spoon
3. Directly onto the child’s tongue

Pour all granules that make up the prescribed dose directly onto the child’s tongue.

Tap the capsule to make sure all granules are removed.

The ALKINDI SPRINKLE granules should be given and swallowed within 5 minutes to avoid a bitter taste.

Step 7: Give Fluids

After giving it, give a sip of fluids such as water, milk, breast milk, or formula right away to make sure all granules are swallowed.

Throwing Away (disposal of) ALKINDI SPRINKLE:

Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use.

<b>How should I store ALKINDI SPRINKLE?

• Store it at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Store in the original bottle to protect from light.
• After the bottle has been opened, use the capsules within 60 days.

Keep it and all medicines out of the reach of children.

This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Description

ALKINDI SPRINKLE contains hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, also known as cortisol. The chemical name of hydrocortisone is 11β,17α,21-trihydroxy-pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione and it has the chemical formula of C₂₁H₃₀O₅, and molecular weight of 362 g·mol−1. Hydrocortisone is a white or almost white powder soluble in the pH range of 1-7.

Structural Formula Of Hydrocortisone

ALKINDI SPRINKLE are oral granules contained within hard capsules. The inactive ingredients in the granules are microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate and ethyl cellulose and the capsule shell contains hypromellose. The printing ink contains shellac, propylene glycol and concentrated ammonia solution. The printing ink also contains red iron oxide, potassium hydroxide for 0.5 mg (red), indigotine for 1 mg (blue), indigotine, yellow iron oxide, titanium dioxide for 2 mg (green) and titanium dioxide, black iron oxide, potassium hydroxide for 5 mg (gray).

ALKINDI SPRINKLE is indicated as replacement therapy in pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency.

Dosage And Administration

Dosage Information

• Individualize the dose for each patient, using the lowest possible dosage.
• The recommended starting replacement dosage is 8 to 10 mg/m²/day daily. Higher doses may be needed based on patient’s age and symptoms of the disease. Use of lower starting doses may be sufficient in patients with residual but decreased endogenous cortisol production.
• Round the dose to the nearest 0.5 mg or 1 mg. The contents of more than one capsule may be needed to supply the required dose.
• Divide the total daily dose in 3 doses and administer 3 times daily. Older pediatric patients may have their daily dose divided by 2 and administered twice daily.
• Monitor patients for symptoms of under and/or overtreatment including signs and symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency, linear growth, and weight gain. Adjust doses accordingly.
• During episodes of acute febrile illness, gastroenteritis, surgery or major trauma, patients may need increased doses [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Switching To ALKINDI SPRINKLE From Other Oral Hydrocortisone Formulations

When switching patients from other oral hydrocortisone formulations to, use the same total daily hydrocortisone dosage. Closely monitor patients after switching to for symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency. If symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur after switching, increase the total daily dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Administration Instructions

• ALKINDI SPRINKLE are oral granules contained within capsules.
• Do not swallow the capsules. Do not chew or crush the granules.
• Do not use it granules in nasogastric or gastric tubes as they may cause tube blockage.
• Open the capsule and administer the granules as follows:
  • Hold the capsule so that the printed strength is at the top and tap to ensure all the granules are in the lower half of the capsule.
  • Squeeze the bottom of the capsule gently and twist off the top of the capsule.
  • The granules may be administered by pouring the granules directly onto the patient’s tongue, pouring the granules onto a spoon and placing in the patient’s mouth, or sprinkling onto a spoonful of cold or room temperature soft food (such as yogurt or fruit puree). The granules should be given and swallowed within 5 minutes to avoid a bitter taste as the outer taste masking cover can dissolve.
  • Tap the capsule to ensure all the granules are removed. Avoid wetting the capsule on the tongue or soft food as this may result in granules remaining in the capsule.
  • Immediately follow administration with ingestion of fluids such as water, milk, breast milk or formula to ensure all granules are swallowed.
• Do not add the granules to liquid as this can result in reductions in the dose administered and may result in a bitter taste.
• Instruct patients and/or caregivers to contact their healthcare provider if the full dose is not administered (e.g., regurgitating, vomiting of granules). A repeat dose may be required to avoid adrenal insufficiency [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

How Supplied

Dosage Forms And Strengths

ALKINDI SPRINKLE oral granules are white to off-white granules contained within transparent capsules and are available as follows:

Strength	Imprint on Capsules
0.5 mg	“INF-0.5” in red ink
1 mg	“INF-1.0” in blue ink
2 mg	“INF-2.0” in green ink
5 mg	“INF-5.0” in gray ink

Storage And Handling

ALKINDI SPRINKLE oral granules are supplied as white to off-white granules in transparent capsules as follows:

Strength	Imprint on Capsules	Amount in Bottle	NDC
0.5 mg	“INF-0.5” in red ink	50 capsules	71863-109-50
1 mg	“INF-1.0” in blue ink	50 capsules	71863-110-50
2 mg	“INF-2.0” in green ink	50 capsules	71863-111-50
5 mg	“INF-5.0” in gray ink	50 capsules	71863-112-50

Store at controlled room temperature (USP) 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Store in the original bottle in order to protect from light.

Once the bottle has been opened, use the capsules within 60 days.

ALKINDI SPRINKLE is manufactured by Glatt Pharmaceutical Services GmbH & Co. KG Werner-Glatt-Strasse 1, Binzen, Baden-Wuerttemberg, 79589, Germany. Revised: Dec 2022

The following serious adverse reactions are described here and elsewhere in the label:

• Adrenal Crisis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Infections [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Growth Retardation [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Cushing’s Syndrome Due to Use of Excessive Doses of Corticosteroids [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Decrease in Bone Mineral Density [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Ophthalmic Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]

Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical studies 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.

ALKINDI SPRINKLE was evaluated in an uncontrolled, open-label, single-arm clinical study in 18 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency. Adrenocortical insufficiency was due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia in 17 patients and to hypopituitarism in one patient. All patients received at least one dose of ALKINDI SPRINKLE. The age ranged from 36 days to 5.7 years at start of treatment; 8 patients were female and 10 were male; 100% were White. Adverse reactions that were reported in two or more patients (≥ 11%) are shown in Table 1.

Table 1. Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥11% of Pediatric Patients with AdrenocorticalInsufficiency Treated with ALKINDI SPRINKLE for up to 29 Months

Adverse Reactions	N=18 n (%)
Pyrexia	10 (56)
Gastroenteritis	9 (50)
Viral upper respiratory tract infection	8 (44)
Vomiting	7 (39)
Viral infection	6 (33)
Conjunctivitis	5 (28)
Otitis media viral	3 (17)
Tonsillitis	3 (17)
Body temperature increased	2 (11)
Bronchitis	2 (11)
Dental caries	2 (11)
Diarrhea	2 (11)
Genitourinary operation	2 (11)
Pharyngitis	2 (11)
Respiratory tract infection	2 (11)
Rhinitis	2 (11)

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions seen in pediatric and adult patients associated with the use of corticosteroids were identified in the literature and from postmarketing reports. Because some of 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.

Common adverse reactions for corticosteroids include fluid retention, alteration in glucose tolerance, elevation in blood pressure, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite and weight gain.

Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema

Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, congestive heart failure, fat embolism, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis

Dermatologic: Acne, allergic dermatitis, cutaneous and subcutaneous atrophy, dry scalp, edema, facial erythema, hyper or hypo-pigmentation, impaired wound healing, increased sweating, petechiae and ecchymoses, rash, sterile abscess, striae, suppressed reactions to skin tests, thin fragile skin, thinning scalp hair, urticaria

Endocrine: Abnormal fat deposits, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, development of Cushingoid state, hirsutism, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus and increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics, menstrual irregularities, moon faces, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness), suppression of growth in pediatric patients

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Fluid retention, potassium loss, hypertension, hypokalemic alkalosis, sodium retention

Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention, elevation in serum liver enzymes levels (usually reversible upon discontinuation), hepatomegaly, hiccups, malaise, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, ulcerative esophagitis

General: Increased appetite and weight gain

Metabolic: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism

Musculoskeletal: Osteonecrosis of femoral and humeral heads, Charcot-like arthropathy, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pathologic fracture of long bones, steroid myopathy, tendon rupture, vertebral compression fractures

Neurological: Arachnoiditis, convulsions, depression, emotional instability, euphoria, headache, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, insomnia, meningitis, mood swings, neuritis, neuropathy, paraparesis/paraplegia, paresthesia, personality changes, sensory disturbances, vertigo

Ophthalmic: Exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, posterior subcapsular cataracts, and central serous chorioretinopathy Reproductive: Alteration in motility and number of spermatozoa

Table 2. Drug Interactions with ALKINDI SPRINKLE

CYP3A4 Inhibitors
Clinical Impact:	Hydrocortisone is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Concomitant administration of inhibitors of CYP3A4 may lead to increases in serum concentrations of ALKINDI SPRINKLE and increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with the use of excessive doses.
Intervention:	Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may require a decrease in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose.
Examples:	Anti-fungals: itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole Antibiotics: erythromycin and clarithromycin Antiretrovirals: ritonavir Grapefruit juice
CYP3A4 Inducers
Clinical Impact:	Hydrocortisone is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Concomitant administration of inducers of CYP3A4 may lead to decreases in serum concentrations of ALKINDI SPRINKLE and increase the risk of adverse reactions, including adrenal crisis.
Intervention:	Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose.
Examples:	Anticonvulsants: phenytoin, carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine Antibiotics: rifampicin and rifabutin Barbiturates: phenobarbital and primidone Antiretrovirals: efavirenz and nevirapine
Estrogen and Estrogen Containing Products
Clinical Impact:	Oral estrogen and estrogen-containing oral contraceptives may interact with hydrocortisone by increasing serum cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) concentration. Concomitant use may reduce the efficacy of ALKINDI SPRINKLE by binding and delaying or preventing absorption.
Intervention:	Concomitant use of estrogen/estrogen containing products may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose.
Antidiabetic Agents
Clinical Impact:	Corticosteroids in supraphysiologic doses may increase blood glucose concentrations.
Intervention:	Use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE in supraphysiologic doses may require a dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents.
Anticoagulant Agents
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of warfarin and corticosteroids usually results in inhibition of response to warfarin, although there have been some conflicting reports.
Intervention:	Monitor coagulation indices in patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant warfarin to maintain the desired anticoagulant effect.
Cyclosporine
Clinical Impact:	Increased activity of both cyclosporine and corticosteroids may occur when the two are used concurrently. Convulsions have been reported with concurrent use.
Intervention:	Monitor patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant cyclosporine.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Clinical Impact:	Concomitant use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. The clearance of salicylates may be increased with concurrent use of corticosteroids; this could lead to decreased salicylate serum levels or increase the risk of salicylate toxicity when corticosteroid is withdrawn.
Intervention:	Monitor patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant NSAIDs.

Warnings

Included as part of the “PRECAUTIONS” Section

Precautions

Adrenal Crisis

Undertreatment with ALKINDI SPRINKLE or sudden discontinuation of therapy with ALKINDI SPRINKLE may lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenal crisis, and death. Adrenal crisis may also be induced by stress events such as infections or surgery when patients require higher doses of corticosteroids. Symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency include poor feeding, fatigue, low muscle tone, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, hypoglycemia, low blood pressure and electrolyte disturbances.

Increase the dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE during periods of stress (infections, surgery). Switch patients who are vomiting, severely ill or unable to take oral medications to parenteral corticosteroid formulations without delay. Once the patient recovers, gradually reduce the steroid dosage used during the acute event.

When switching patients to ALKINDI SPRINKLE from another oral hydrocortisone formulation, consider the potential for dosing inaccuracy if the other oral hydrocortisone formulation has been manipulated (e.g., split or crushed tablets, compounded formulations). Manipulation of oral hydrocortisone formulations may result in a relative difference in hydrocortisone exposure when using the same dosage to initiate ALKINDI SPRINKLE treatment. Closely monitor patients after switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE to ensure ALKINDI SPRINKLE is providing the same level of hydrocortisone exposure as the previously used oral hydrocortisone formulation. If symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur, increase the total daily dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE.

Infections

Excessive doses of corticosteroids may increase the risks of new infections or exacerbation of latent infections with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic infections. Appropriate replacement doses of corticosteroids for patients with adrenocortical insufficiency are not expected to cause immunosuppression and, therefore, should not increase risk of infection. Administration of live vaccine may be acceptable in pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency receiving replacement doses of corticosteroids. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infections. Treat all infections seriously and initiate stress dosing of steroids early [see Adrenal Crisis].

Growth Retardation

Long-term use of corticosteroids in excessive doses may cause growth retardation in pediatric patients. Historical cohorts of adults treated from childhood for congenital adrenal hyperplasia have been found to have growth retardation. Effects on linear growth are less likely when using corticosteroids as replacement therapy. Use the minimum dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE to achieve desired clinical response and monitor the patient’s growth.

Cushing’s Syndrome Due To Use Of Excessive Doses Of Corticosteroids

Prolonged use of corticosteroids in supraphysiologic doses may cause Cushing’s syndrome. Symptoms and signs of Cushing’s syndrome include weight gain, decreased height velocity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, edema, easy bruising, muscle weakness, red round face, depression or mood swings. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome every 6 months; pediatric patients under one year of age may require more frequent monitoring, e.g., every 3 to 4 months.

Decrease In Bone Mineral Density

Corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption which may lead to development of osteoporosis. Historical cohorts of adults treated from childhood for congenital adrenal hyperplasia have been found to have reduced bone mineral density and increased fracture rates. Use the minimum dosage of ALKINDI SPRINKLE to achieve desired clinical response.

Psychiatric Adverse Reactions

Corticosteroid use may be associated with severe psychiatric adverse reactions. Euphoria, mania, psychosis with hallucinations and delirium or depression have been seen in patients at replacement doses of hydrocortisone [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Symptoms typically emerge within a few days or weeks of starting the treatment. Risks may be higher with high doses, although dose levels do not allow prediction of the onset, type, severity, or duration of reactions. Most reactions resolve after either dose reduction or withdrawal, although specific treatment may be necessary. Monitor patients for behavioral and mood disturbances during treatment with ALKINDI SPRINKLE. Instruct caregivers and/or patients to seek medical advice if psychiatric symptoms develop.

Ophthalmic Adverse Reactions

Ophthalmic effects, such as cataract, glaucoma or central serous chorioretinopathy have been reported with prolonged use of corticosteroids in high doses. Monitor patients for blurred vision or other visual disturbances. If patients develop ophthalmic adverse reactions, refer them to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions

There is an increased risk of gastrointestinal perforation in patients with certain gastrointestinal disorders. Signs of gastrointestinal perforation, such as peritoneal irritation may be masked in patients receiving corticosteroids. Corticosteroids should be used with caution if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infections, diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, and active or latent peptic ulcer.

Concurrent administration of corticosteroids with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Monitor patients receiving corticosteroids and concomitant NSAIDS for gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Patient Counseling Information

Advise patients and/or caregivers to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

Administration Information

Advise patients and/or caregivers that ALKINDI SPRINKLE is a granule formulation contained in a capsule. Do not swallow the capsule. Do not chew or crush the granules. Open the capsule and give the granules directly into the patient’s mouth. Alternatively, sprinkle the granules onto soft food and give immediately as the taste masking cover can dissolve in as little as 5 minutes. Avoid wetting the capsule as this may cause some granules to stick to the capsule. Immediately following administration, take a sip of fluids to ensure all granules have been swallowed. Advise patients and/or caregivers to contact their healthcare provider if the full dose was not administered due to regurgitation or vomiting of granules as a repeat dose may be required [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Adrenal Crisis

Inform patients and/or caregivers that undertreatment or sudden discontinuation of ALKINDI SPRINKLE or switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE from another oral hydrocortisone formulation, may lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenal crisis, and death. Inform the caregiver that potential dosing inaccuracy of the manipulated oral hydrocortisone formulation (e.g., split or crushed tablets, compounded formulations) may result in dosing differences when switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE which may require dose adjustments. Advise caregivers to watch the patient for symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency during the days after the switching to ALKINDI SPRINKLE. Inform patient and/or caregiver to contact their healthcare provider if they have symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency, prolonged vomiting, are severely ill or are unable to take oral medications [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Infections

Advise patients and/or caregivers that excessive doses of corticosteroids may increase the risk of infections. Inform patients and/or caregivers that administration of live vaccine may be acceptable. Instruct patients and/or caregivers to contact their healthcare provider if they develop any infections [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Growth Retardation

Discuss with caregivers that long-term use of corticosteroids in excessive doses may cause growth retardation in pediatric patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Cushing’s Syndrome

Inform patients and/or caregivers that prolonged use of corticosteroids in supraphysiologic doses may cause Cushing’s syndrome and that symptoms and signs include weight gain, decreased height velocity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, edema, easy bruising, muscle weakness, red round face, depression or mood swings [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Decrease In Bone Mineral Density

Inform patients and/or caregivers that corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption that may lead to osteoporosis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Psychiatric Adverse Reactions

Advise patients and/or caregivers that corticosteroid use may be associated with severe psychiatric adverse reactions such as euphoria, mania, psychosis with hallucinations or depression. Instruct caregivers and/or patients to seek medical advice if psychiatric symptoms develop [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Ophthalmic Adverse Reactions

Inform patients and/or caregivers that ophthalmic effects such as cataract, glaucoma or central serous chorioretinopathy have been reported with prolonged use of high-dose corticosteroids. Instruct patients or caregivers to report any blurred vision or visual disturbances to their healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions

Discuss with patients and/or caregivers that use of corticosteroids may increase risk of gastrointestinal perforation in certain gastrointestinal disorders [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Excretion Of Granules

ALKINDI SPRINKLE granules may sometimes be seen in stools since the center of the granule is not absorbed in the gut after the active substance has been released. Inform patients or caregivers that this does not mean the product is ineffective and they should not take another dose.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

No adequate studies in animals have been conducted with hydrocortisone to evaluate carcinogenic or mutagenic potential. Corticosteroids have been shown to impair fertility in male rats.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Untreated adrenocortical insufficiency in pregnancy can result in a high rate of complications, including maternal mortality. The use of physiologic doses of hydrocortisone is not expected to cause major birth defects, miscarriage and adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Available data from observational studies with hydrocortisone use in pregnancy have not identified a clear drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. 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

Human Data

Available data from observational studies with hydrocortisone use in pregnant women have not identified a clear drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Evidence from published epidemiologic studies suggest that there may be a small increased risk of cleft lip with or without cleft palate associated with first trimester systemic corticosteroid use in pregnant patients. However, the data are limited and report inconsistent findings, and studies have important methodological limitations, including non-randomized design, retrospective data collection, lack of dose-response data and the inability to control for confounders, such as underlying maternal disease and use of concomitant medications. In addition, unlike other corticosteroids, hydrocortisone is enzymatically deactivated by the placenta and therefore, limits fetal exposure.

Animal Data

Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in many species when given in doses equivalent to the human dose. Animal studies in which corticosteroids have been given to pregnant mice, rats and rabbits without adrenocortical insufficiency have yielded an increased incidence of cleft palate in the offspring.

Lactation

Risk Summary

Cortisol is present in human milk. The use of hydrocortisone at a physiologic dose for adrenocortical insufficiency is not expected to adversely affect the breastfed infant or milk production. There are no data on the presence of hydrocortisone in breast milk, the effect on the breastfed infant or on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ALKINDI SPRINKLE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from ALKINDI SPRINKLE or from the underlying maternal condition.

Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of ALKINDI SPRINKLE have been established in pediatric patients for replacement therapy of adrenocortical insufficiency and the information on this use is discussed throughout the labeling. Use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE in pediatric patients is supported by use in pediatric patients for adrenocortical insufficiency with another hydrocortisone product, along with supportive pharmacokinetic and safety data in 24 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency. No new adverse reactions were identified [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. ALKINDI SPRINKLE are oral granules contained within capsules that must be opened and not swallowed whole to administer the granules. Additionally, ALKINDI SPRINKLE granules should not be administered via nasogastric or gastric tubes as they may cause tube blockage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Treatment of acute overdosage is by supportive and symptomatic therapy.

Contraindications

ALKINDI SPRINKLE is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or to any of the ingredients in ALKINDI SPRINKLE. Anaphylactic reactions have occurred in patients receiving corticosteroids [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Mechanism Of Action

Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids, adrenocortical steroids, cause varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body’s immune responses to diverse stimuli.

Pharmacodynamics

Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Following oral administration, a dose of ALKINDI SPRINKLE 4×5 mg was approximately 87% bioavailable when compared to intravenous hydrocortisone in dexamethasone-suppressed healthy adult male volunteers. The median time to peak serum concentration (Tmax) was 0.75 hours post-dose following oral administration.

In an open label, single dose study in 24 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency, ALKINDI SPRINKLE (1-4 mg based on body surface area) increased cortisol levels from baseline to median cortisol level 19.4 mcg/dL (range 12.5 – 52.4 mcg/dL) at Cmax (60 minutes post-dose).

Effect of Food

The coadministration of ALKINDI SPRINKLE with soft food (yogurt and fruit puree) has been studied in healthy adult male volunteers, where it was shown to be bioequivalent to administration of dry granules directly to the back of the tongue.

Distribution

90% or more of circulating hydrocortisone is reversibly bound to protein.

The binding is accounted for by two protein fractions. One, corticosteroid-binding globulin is a glycoprotein; the other is albumin.

Elimination

Hydrocortisone is metabolized in the liver and most body tissues to hydrogenated and degraded forms such as tetrahydrocortisone and tetrahydrocortisol which are excreted in the urine, mainly conjugated as glucuronides, together with a very small proportion of unchanged hydrocortisone.

The terminal half-life of hydrocortisone is about 1.5 hours following intravenous and oral dosing of hydrocortisone tablets and ALKINDI SPRINKLE in dexamethasone-suppressed healthy adult male volunteers.