Stivarga 40 mg film-coated tablets.

Each film-coated tablet contains 40 mg of regorafenib.

Excipients with known effect:

Each daily dose of 160 mg contains 2.427 mmol (or 55.8 mg) of sodium (see section 4.4).

Each daily dose of 160 mg contains 1.68 mg of lecithin (derived from soya) (see section 4.4).

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1.

Film-coated tablet.

Light pink film-coated tablets, oval shaped with a length of 16 mm and a width of 7 mm marked with 'BAYER' on one side and '40' on the other side.

Stivarga is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with:

- metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) who have been previously treated with, or are not considered candidates for, available therapies. These include fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy, an anti-VEGF therapy and an anti-EGFR therapy (see section 5.1).

- unresectable or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) who progressed on or are intolerant to prior treatment with imatinib and sunitinib.

Stivarga should be prescribed by physicians experienced in the administration of anticancer therapy.

Posology

The recommended dose of regorafenib is 160 mg (4 tablets of 40 mg) taken once daily for 3 weeks followed by 1 week off therapy. This 4-week period is considered a treatment cycle.

If a dose is missed, then it should be taken on the same day as soon as the patient remembers. The patient should not take two doses on the same day to make up for a missed dose. In case of vomiting after regorafenib administration, the patient should not take additional tablets.

Treatment should continue as long as benefit is observed or until unacceptable toxicity occurs (see section 4.4).

Patients with performance status (PS) 2 or higher were excluded from clinical studies. There is limited data in patients with PS ≥2.

Posology adjustments

Dose interruptions and/or dose reductions may be required based on individual safety and tolerability. Dose modifications are to be applied in 40 mg (one tablet) steps. The lowest recommended daily dose is 80 mg. The maximum daily dose is 160 mg.

For recommended dose modifications and measures in case of hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) / palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome see Table 1.

Table 1: Recommended dose modifications and measures for HFSR

For recommended measures and dose modifications in case of worsening of liver function tests considered related to treatment with Stivarga see Table 2 (see also section 4.4).

Table 2: Recommended measures and dose modifications in case of drug-related liver function test abnormalities

Hepatic impairment

Regorafenib is eliminated mainly via the hepatic route.

In clinical studies, no relevant differences in exposure, safety or efficacy were observed between patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A) and normal hepatic function. No dose adjustment is required in patients with mild hepatic impairment. Since only limited data are available for patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child Pugh B), no dose recommendation can be provided. Close monitoring of overall safety is recommended in these patients (see sections 4.4 and 5.2).

Stivarga is not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) as Stivarga has not been studied in this population.

Renal impairment

Available clinical data indicate similar exposure of regorafenib and its metabolites M-2 and M-5 in patients with mild, moderate or severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. No dose adjustment is required in patients with mild, moderate or severe renal impairment (see also section 5.2).

Elderly population

In clinical studies, no relevant differences in exposure, safety or efficacy were observed between elderly (aged 65 years and above) and younger patients (see also section 5.2).

Gender

In clinical studies, no relevant differences in exposure, safety or efficacy were observed between male and female patients. No dose adjustment is necessary based on gender (see also section 5.2).

Ethnic differences

In clinical studies, no relevant differences in exposure or efficacy were observed between patients of different ethnic groups. A higher incidence of hand foot skin reaction (HFSR) / palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, severe liver function test abnormalities and hepatic dysfunction was observed in Asian (in particular Japanese) patients treated with Stivarga compared with Caucasians. The Asian patients treated with Stivarga in clinical studies were primarily from East Asia (~90%). There is limited data on regorafenib in the black patient population. No dose adjustment is necessary based on ethnicity (see section 5.2).

Paediatric population

There is no relevant use of Stivarga in the paediatric population in the indication of metastatic colorectal cancer.

The safety and efficacy of regorafenib in patients below 18 years of age in the indication gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) have not been established. No data are available.

Method of administration

Stivarga is for oral use.

Stivarga should be taken at the same time each day. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water after a light meal that contains less than 30% fat. An example of a light (low-fat) meal would include 1 portion of cereal (about 30 g), 1 glass of skimmed milk, 1 slice of toast with jam, 1 glass of apple juice, and 1 cup of coffee or tea (520 calories, 2 g fat).

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Hepatic effects

Abnormalities of liver function tests (alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and bilirubin) have been frequently observed in patients treated with Stivarga. Severe liver function test abnormalities (Grade 3 to 4) and hepatic dysfunction with clinical manifestations (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in a small proportion of patients (see section 4.8). In clinical trials, a higher incidence of severe liver function test abnormalities and hepatic dysfunction was observed in Asian (in particular Japanese) patients treated with Stivarga as compared with Caucasians (see section 4.2).

It is recommended to perform liver function tests (ALT, AST and bilirubin) before initiation of treatment with Stivarga and monitor closely (at least every two weeks) during the first 2 months of treatment. Thereafter, periodic monitoring should be continued at least monthly and as clinically indicated.

Regorafenib is a uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) 1A1 inhibitor (see section 4.5). Mild, indirect (unconjugated) hyperbilirubinaemia may occur in patients with Gilbert's syndrome.

For patients with observed worsening of liver function tests considered related to treatment with Stivarga (i.e. where no alternative cause is evident, such as post-hepatic cholestasis or disease progression), the dose modification and monitoring advice in Table 2 should be followed (see section 4.2).

Regorafenib is eliminated mainly via the hepatic route.

Close monitoring of the overall safety is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (see also sections 4.2 and 5.2). Stivarga is not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) as Stivarga has not been studied in this population and exposure might be increased in these patients.

Haemorrhage

Stivarga has been associated with an increased incidence of haemorrhagic events, some of which were fatal (see section 4.8). Blood counts and coagulation parameters should be monitored in patients with conditions predisposing to bleeding, and in those treated with anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin and phenprocoumon) or other concomitant medicinal products that increase the risk of bleeding. In the event of severe bleeding necessitating urgent medical intervention, permanent discontinuation of Stivarga should be considered.

Cardiac ischaemia and infarction

Stivarga has been associated with an increased incidence of myocardial ischaemia and infarction (see section 4.8). Patients with unstable angina or new onset angina (within 3 months of starting Stivarga therapy), recent myocardial infarction (within 6 months of starting Stivarga therapy) and those with cardiac failure New York Heart Association (NYHA) Classification 2 or higher were excluded from the clinical studies.

Patients with a history of ischaemic heart disease should be monitored for clinical signs and symptoms of myocardial ischaemia. In patients who develop cardiac ischaemia and/or infarction, interruption of Stivarga is recommended until resolution. The decision to re-start Stivarga therapy should be based on careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks of the individual patient. Stivarga should be permanently discontinued if there is no resolution.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)

PRES has been reported in association with Stivarga treatment (see section 4.8). Signs and symptoms of PRES include seizures, headache, altered mental status, visual disturbance or cortical blindness, with or without associated hypertension. A diagnosis of PRES requires confirmation by brain imaging. In patients developing PRES, discontinuation of Stivarga, along with control of hypertension and supportive medical management of other symptoms is recommended.

Gastrointestinal perforation and fistula

Gastrointestinal perforation (including fatal outcome) and fistulae have been reported in patients treated with Stivarga (see section 4.8). These events are also known to be common disease-related complications in patients with intra-abdominal malignancies. Discontinuation of Stivarga is recommended in patients developing gastrointestinal perforation or fistula.

Arterial hypertension

Stivarga has been associated with an increased incidence of arterial hypertension (see section 4.8). Blood pressure should be controlled prior to initiation of treatment with Stivarga. It is recommended to monitor blood pressure and to treat hypertension in accordance with standard medical practice. In cases of severe or persistent hypertension despite adequate medical management, treatment should be temporarily interrupted and/or the dose reduced at the discretion of the physician (see section 4.2). In case of hypertensive crisis, Stivarga should be discontinued.

Wound healing complications

As medicinal products with anti-angiogenic properties may suppress or interfere with wound healing, temporary interruption of Stivarga is recommended for precautionary reasons in patients undergoing major surgical procedures. The decision to resume treatment with Stivarga following major surgical intervention should be based on clinical judgment of adequate wound healing.

Dermatological toxicity

Hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome and rash represent the most frequently observed dermatological adverse reactions with Stivarga (see section 4.8). ). In clinical trials, a higher incidence of HFSR was observed in Asian (in particular Japanese) patients treated with Stivarga as compared with Caucasians (see section 4.2). Measures for the prevention of HFSR include control of calluses and use of shoe cushions and gloves to prevent pressure stress to soles and palms. Management of HFSR may include the use of keratolytic creams (e.g. urea-, salicylic acid-, or alpha hydroxyl acid-based creams applied sparingly only on affected areas) and moisturizing creams (applied liberally) for symptomatic relief. Dose reduction and/or temporary interruption of Stivarga, or in severe or persistent cases, permanent discontinuation of Stivarga should be considered (see section 4.2).

Biochemical and metabolic laboratory test abnormalities

Stivarga has been associated with an increased incidence of electrolyte abnormalities (including hypophosphatemia, hypocalcaemia, hyponatraemia and hypokalaemia) and metabolic abnormalities (including increases in thyroid stimulating hormone, lipase and amylase). The abnormalities are generally of mild to moderate severity, not associated with clinical manifestations, and do not usually require dose interruptions or reductions. It is recommended to monitor biochemical and metabolic parameters during Stivarga treatment and to institute appropriate replacement therapy according to standard clinical practice if required. Dose interruption or reduction, or permanent discontinuation of Stivarga should be considered in case of persistent or recurrent significant abnormalities (see section 4.2).

Important information about some of the ingredients

Each daily dose of 160 mg contains 2.427 mmol (or 55.8 mg) of sodium. To be taken into consideration by patients on a controlled sodium diet. Each daily dose of 160 mg contains 1.68 mg of lecithin (derived from soya).

Inhibitors of CYP3A4 and UGT1A9 / inducers of CYP3A4

In vitro data indicate that regorafenib is metabolized by cytochrome CYP3A4 and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase UGT1A9.

Administration of ketoconazole (400 mg for 18 days), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, with a single dose of regorafenib (160 mg on day 5) resulted in an increase in mean exposure (AUC) of regorafenib of approximately 33%, and a decrease in mean exposure of the active metabolites, M-2 (N-oxide) and M-5 (N-oxide and N-desmethyl), of approximately 90%. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 activity (e.g. clarithromycin, grapefruit juice, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, telithromycin and voriconazole) as their influence on the steady-state exposure of regorafenib and its metabolites has not been studied.

Co-administration of a strong UGT1A9 inhibitor (e.g. mefenamic acid, diflunisal, and niflumic acid) during regorafenib treatment should be avoided, as their influence on the steady-state exposure of regorafenib and its metabolites has not been studied.

Administration of rifampicin (600 mg for 9 days), a strong CYP3A4 inducer, with a single dose of regorafenib (160 mg on day 7) resulted in a reduction in AUC of regorafenib of approximately 50%, a 3- to 4-fold increase in mean exposure of the active metabolite M-5, and no change in exposure of active metabolite M-2. Other strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital and St. John's wort) may also increase metabolism of regorafenib. Strong inducers of CYP3A4 should be avoided, or selection of an alternate concomitant medicinal product, with no or minimal potential to induce CYP3A4 should be considered.

UGT1A1 and UGT1A9 substrates

In vitro data indicate that regorafenib as well as its active metabolite M-2 inhibit glucuronidation mediated by UGT1A1 and UGT1A9 whereas M-5 only inhibits UGT1A1 at concentrations which are achieved in vivo at steady state. Administration of regorafenib with a 5-day break prior to administration of irinotecan resulted in an increase of approximately 44% in AUC of SN-38, a substrate of UGT1A1 and an active metabolite of irinotecan. An increase in AUC of irinotecan of approximately 28% was also observed. This indicates that co-administration of regorafenib may increase systemic exposure to UGT1A1 and UGT1A9 substrates.

Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and P-glycoprotein substrates

Administration of regorafenib (160 mg for 14 days) prior to administration of a single dose of rosuvastatin (5 mg), a BCRP substrate, resulted in a 3.8-fold increase in mean exposure (AUC) of rosuvastatin and a 4.6-fold increase in C_max.

This indicates that co-administration of regorafenib may increase the plasma concentrations of other concomitant BCRP substrates (e.g. methotrexate, fluvastatin, atorvastatin). Therefore, it is recommended to monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of increased exposure to BCRP substrates.

Clinical data indicate that regorafenib has no effect on digoxin pharmacokinetics, therefore can be given concomitantly with p-glycoprotein substrates, such as digoxin, without a clinically meaningful drug interaction.

Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein and BCRP / Inducers of P-glycoprotein and BCRP

In vitro studies indicate that the active metabolites M-2 and M-5 are substrates for P-glycoprotein and BCRP. Inhibitors and inducers of BCRP and P-glycoprotein may interfere with the exposure of M-2 and M-5. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown (see also section 5.2).

CYP isoform-selective substrates

In vitro data indicate that regorafenib is a competitive inhibitor of the cytochromes CYP2C8 (K_i value of 0.6 micromolar), CYP2C9 (K_i value of 4.7 micromolar), CYP2B6 (K_i value of 5.2 micromolar) at concentrations which are achieved in vivo at steady state (peak plasma concentration of 8.1 micromolar). The in vitro inhibitory potency towards CYP3A4 (K_i value of 11.1 micromolar) and CYP2C19 (K_i value of 16.4 micromolar) was less pronounced.

A clinical probe substrate study was performed to eva luate the effect of 14 days of dosing with 160 mg regorafenib on the pharmacokinetics of probe substrates of CYP2C8 (rosiglitazone) CYP2C9 (S-warfarin), CYP 2C19 (omeprazole) and CYP3A4 (midazolam).

Pharmacokinetic data indicate that regorafenib may be given concomitantly with substrates of CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP3A4, and CYP2C19 without a clinically meaningful drug interaction (see also section 4.4).

Antibiotics

The concentration-time profile indicates that regorafenib and its metabolites may undergo enterohepatic circulation (see section 5.2). Co-administration with neomycin, a poorly absorbed antimicrobial agent used for eradicating the gastrointestinal microflora (which may interfere with the enterohepatic circulation of regorafenib) had no effect on the regorafenib exposure, but there was an approximately 80% decrease in the exposure of the active metabolites M-2 and M-5 which showed in vitro and in vivo comparable pharmacological activity as regorafenib.The clinical significance of this neomycin interaction is unknown, but may result in a decreased efficacy of regorafenib. Pharmacokinetic interactions of other antibiotics have not been studied.

Bile salt-sequestering agents

Regorafenib, M-2 and M-5 are likely to undergo enterohepatic circulation (see section 5.2). Bile salt-sequestering agents such as cholestyramine and cholestagel may interact with regorafenib by forming insoluble complexes which may impact absorption (or reabsorption), thus resulting in potentially decreased exposure. The clinical significance of these potential interactions is unknown, but may result in a decreased efficacy of regorafenib.

Women of childbearing potential / Contraception in males and females

Women of childbearing potential must be informed that regorafenib may cause foetal harm.

Women of childbearing potential and men should ensure effective contraception during treatment and up to 8 weeks after completion of therapy.

Pregnancy

There are no data on the use of regorafenib in pregnant women.

Based on its mechanism of action regorafenib is suspected to cause foetal harm when administered during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3).

Stivarga should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and after careful consideration of the benefits for the mother and the risk to the foetus.

Breast-feeding

It is unknown whether regorafenib or its metabolites are excreted in human milk.

In rats, regorafenib or its metabolites are excreted in milk. A risk to the breast-fed child cannot be excluded. Regorafenib could harm infant growth and development (see section 5.3).

Breast-feeding must be discontinued during treatment with Stivarga.

Fertility

There are no data on the effect of Stivarga on human fertility. Results from animal studies indicate that regorafenib can impair male and female fertility (see section 5.3).

No studies on the effects of Stivarga on the ability to drive or use machines have been performed. If patients experience symptoms affecting their ability to concentrate and react during treatment with Stivarga, it is recommended that they do not drive or use machines until the effect subsides.