Nupralgin Plus

Nupralgin Plus, a combination of naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium, is indicated in adult and adolescent patients 12 years of age and older weighing at least 38 kg, requiring naproxen for symptomatic relief of arthritis and esomeprazole magnesium to decrease the risk for developing naproxen-associated gastric ulcers.

The naproxen component of Nupralgin Plus is indicated for relief of signs and symptoms of:

• osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis in adults.
• juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in adolescent patients.

The esomeprazole magnesium component of Nupralgin Plus is indicated to decrease the risk of developing naproxen-associated gastric ulcers.

Limitations Of Use

• Do not substitute Nupralgin Plus with the single-ingredient products of naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium.
• Nupralgin Plus is not recommended for initial treatment of acute pain because the absorption of naproxen is delayed compared to absorption from other naproxen-containing products.
• Controlled studies do not extend beyond 6 months.

Important Administration Instructions

• Use the lowest naproxen dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
• Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Nupralgin Plus and other treatment options before deciding to use Nupralgin Plus.
• Nupralgin Plus does not allow for administration of a lower daily dose of esomeprazole magnesium. If a total daily dose of less than 40 mg esomeprazole is more appropriate, a different treatment should be considered.
• Swallow Nupralgin Plus tablets whole with liquid. Do not split, chew, crush or dissolve the tablet. Take Nupralgin Plus at least 30 minutes before meals.
• Patients should be instructed that if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if the next scheduled dose is due, the patient should not take the missed dose, and should be instructed to take the next dose on time. Patients should be instructed not to take 2 doses at one time to make up for a missed dose.
• Antacids may be used while taking Nupralgin Plus.

Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage of VIMVO by indication is shown in the table:

Use In Renal Impairment Or Hepatic Impairment

Renal Impairment

Naproxen-containing products are not recommended for use in patients with moderate to severe or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min).

Hepatic Impairment

Monitor patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment closely and consider a possible dose reduction based on the naproxen component of Nupralgin Plus.

Nupralgin Plus should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Nupralgin Plus is contraindicated in the following patients:

• Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to naproxen, esomeprazole magnesium, substituted benzimidazoles, or to any components of the drug product, including omeprazole. Hypersensitivity reactions to esomeprazole may include anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, angioedema, bronchospasm, acute interstitial nephritis, and urticaria.
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients.
• In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), including esomeprazole magnesium, are contraindicated in patients receiving rilpivirine-containing products.

WARNINGS

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

PRECAUTIONS

Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events

Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke, which can be fatal. Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDS. The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease. However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate. Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment. The increase in CV thrombotic risk has been observed most consistently at higher doses.

To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur.

There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID, such as naproxen, increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) events.

Status Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery

Two large, controlled, clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10-14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of CABG.

Post-MI Patients

Observational studies conducted in the Danish National Registry have demonstrated that patients treated with NSAIDs in the post-MI period were at increased risk of reinfarction, CV-related death, and all-cause mortality beginning in the first week of treatment. In this same cohort, the incidence of death in the first year post-MI was 20 per 100 person years in NSAID-treated patients compared to 12 per 100 person years in non-NSAID exposed patients. Although the absolute rate of death declined somewhat after the first year post-MI, the increased relative risk of death in NSAID users persisted over at least the next four years after follow-up.

Avoid the use of Nupralgin Plus in patients with a recent MI unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent CV thrombotic events. If Nupralgin Plus is used in patients with a recent MI, monitor patients for signs of cardiac ischemia.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, And Perforation

NSAIDs, including naproxen, can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with NSAIDs. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs occurred in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3-6 months, and in about 2% to 4% of patients treated for one year. However, even short-term NSAID therapy is not without risk.

Risk Factors For GI Bleeding, Ulceration, And Perforation

Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding who used NSAIDs had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Other factors that increase the risk for GI bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs include longer duration of NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, aspirin, anticoagulants, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); smoking; use of alcohol; older age; and poor general health status. Most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events are in elderly or debilitated patients. Additionally, patients with advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy are at increased risk for GI bleeding.

Strategies To Minimize The GI Risks In NSAID-treated patients:

• Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration.
• Avoid administration of more than one NSAID at a time.
• Avoid use in patients at higher risk unless benefits are expected to outweigh the increased risk of bleeding. For such as patients, as well as those with active GI bleeding, consider alternate therapies other than NSAIDs.
• Remain alert for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding during NSAID therapy.
• If a serious GI adverse event is suspected, promptly initiate evaluation and treatment, and discontinue Nupralgin Plus until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out.
• In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, monitor patients more closely for evidence of GI bleeding.

NSAIDs should be given with care to patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) as their condition may be exacerbated.

Hepatotoxicity

Elevations of ALT or AST (three or more times the upper limit of the normal [ULN]) have been reported in approximately 1% of NSAID-treated patients in clinical trials. In addition, rare, and sometimes fatal, cases of severe hepatic injury, including jaundice and fatal fulminant hepatitis, liver necrosis, and hepatic failure have been reported.

Elevations of ALT or AST (less than three times ULN) may occur in up to 15% of patients treated with NSAIDs including naproxen.

Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, diarrhea, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and “flu-like” symptoms). If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.), discontinue Nupralgin Plus immediately, and perform a clinical evaluation of the patient.

Nupralgin Plus should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Hypertension

NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, either of which may contribute to the increased incidence of CV events.

Patients taking angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, thiazides diuretics, or loop diuretics may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs.

Monitor blood pressure (BP) during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

Heart Failure And Edema

The Coxib and traditional NSAID Trialists' Collaboration meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials demonstrated an approximately two-fold increase in hospitalizations for heart failure in COX-2 selective treated patients and nonselective NSAID-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients. In a Danish National Registry study of patients with heart failure, NSAID use increased the risk of MI, hospitalization for heart failure, and death.

Additionally, fluid retention and edema have been observed in some patients treated with NSAIDs. Use of naproxen may blunt the CV effects of several therapeutic agents used to treat these medical conditions (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs]).

Avoid the use of Nupralgin Plus in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. If Nupralgin Plus is used in patients with severe heart failure, monitor patients for signs and symptoms of worsening heart failure.

Renal Toxicity And Hyperkalemia

Renal Toxicity

Long-term administration of NSAIDs has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients, administration of an NSAID may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction, those taking diuretics and ACE-inhibitors or ARBs, and the elderly. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy was usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.

No information is available from controlled clinical studies regarding the use of Nupralgin Plus in patients with advanced renal disease. The renal effects of Nupralgin Plus may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with pre-existing renal disease.

Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating Nupralgin Plus. Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during use of Nupralgin Plus. Avoid the use of Nupralgin Plus in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal failure. If Nupralgin Plus is used in patients with advanced renal disease, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.

Hyperkalemia

Increases in serum potassium concentration, including hyperkalemia, have been reported with use of NSAIDs, even in some patients without renal impairment. In patients with normal renal function, these effects have been attributed to a hyporeninemic-hypoaldosteronism state.

Anaphylactic Reactions

Naproxen has been associated with anaphylactic reactions in patients with and without known hypersensitivity to naproxen and in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma.

Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs.

Exacerbation Of Asthma Related To Aspirin Sensitivity

A subpopulation of patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma which may include chronic rhinosinusitis complicated by nasal polyps; severe, potentially fatal bronchospasm; and/or intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Because cross-reactivity between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, Nupralgin Plus is contraindicated in patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity. When Nupralgin Plus is used in patients with preexisting asthma (without known aspirin sensitivity), monitor patients for changes in the signs and symptoms of asthma.

Serious Skin Reactions

NSAIDs, including naproxen, can cause serious skin adverse events such as exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal. These serious events may occur without warning. Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin reactions, and to discontinue the use of Nupralgin Plus at the first appearance of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. Nupralgin Plus is contraindicated in patients with previous serious skin reactions to NSAIDs.

Premature Closure Of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus

Naproxen may cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Avoid use of NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks of gestation (third trimester).

Hematologic Toxicity

Anemia has occurred in NSAID-treated patients. This may be due to occult or gross blood loss, fluid retention, or an incompletely described effect on erythropoiesis. If a patient treated with Nupralgin Plus has any signs or symptoms of anemia, monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit.

NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Co-morbid conditions such as coagulation disorders or concomitant use of warfarin and other anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase the risk. Monitor these patients for signs of bleeding.

Masking Of Inflammation And Fever

The pharmacological activity of Nupralgin Plus in reducing inflammation, and possibly fever, may diminish the utility of diagnostic signs in detecting infections.

Laboratory Monitoring

Because serious GI bleeding, hepatotoxicity, and renal injury can occur without warning symptoms or signs, consider monitoring patients on long-term NSAID treatment with a CBC and chemistry profile periodically.

Patients with initial hemoglobin values of 10 g or less who are to receive long-term therapy should have hemoglobin values determined periodically.

Active Bleeding

When active and clinically significant bleeding from any source occurs in patients receiving Nupralgin Plus, the treatment should be withdrawn.

Concomitant NSAID Use

Nupralgin Plus contains naproxen as one of its active ingredients. It should not be used with other naproxen-containing products since they all circulate in the plasma as the naproxen anion.

The concomitant use of Nupralgin Plus with any dose of a non-aspirin NSAID should be avoided due to the potential for increased risk of adverse reactions.

Presence Of Gastric Malignancy

In adults, response to gastric symptoms with Nupralgin Plus does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy. Consider additional gastrointestinal follow-up and diagnostic testing in adult patients who experience gastric symptoms during treatment with Nupralgin Plus or have a symptomatic relapse after completing treatment. In older patients, also consider an endoscopy.

Acute Interstitial Nephritis

Acute interstitial nephritis has been observed in patients taking PPIs including Nupralgin Plus. Acute interstitial nephritis may occur at any point during PPI therapy and is generally attributed to an idiopathic hypersensitivity reaction. Discontinue Nupralgin Plus if acute interstitial nephritis develops.

Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea

Published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy like Nupralgin Plus may be associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea, especially in hospitalized patients. This diagnosis should be considered for diarrhea that does not improve.

Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated.

Bone Fracture

Several published observational studies suggest that PPI therapy may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine. The risk of fracture was increased in patients who received high-dose, defined as multiple daily doses, and long-term PPI therapy (a year or longer). Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Patients at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures should be managed according to the established treatment guidelines.

Nupralgin Plus (a combination PPI/NSAID) is approved for use twice a day and does not allow for administration of a lower daily dose of the PPI.

Cutaneous And Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been reported in patients taking PPIs, including esomeprazole. These events have occurred as both new onset and an exacerbation of existing autoimmune disease. The majority of PPI-induced lupus erythematous cases were CLE.

The most common form of CLE reported in patients treated with PPIs was subacute CLE (SCLE) and occurred within weeks to years after continuous drug therapy inpatients ranging from infants to the elderly. Generally, histological findings were observed without organ involvement.

SLE is less commonly reported than CLE in patients receiving PPIs. PPI associated SLE is usually milder than non-drug induced SLE. Onset of SLE typically occurred within days to years after initiating treatment primarily in patients ranging from young adults to the elderly. The majority of patients presented with rash; however, arthralgia and cytopenia were also reported.

Avoid administration of PPIs for longer than medically indicated. If signs or symptoms consistent with CLE or SLE are noted in patients receiving Nupralgin Plus, discontinue drug and refer the patient to the appropriate specialist for evaluation. Most patients improve with discontinuation of the PPI alone in 4 to 12 weeks. Serological testing (e.g., ANA) may be positive and elevated serological test results may take longer to resolve than clinical manifestations.

Interaction With Clopidogrel

Avoid concomitant use of esomeprazole with clopidogrel. Clopidogrel is a prodrug. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by clopidogrel is entirely due to an active metabolite. The metabolism of clopidogrel to its active metabolite can be impaired by use with concomitant medications, such as esomeprazole, that inhibit CYP2C19 activity. Concomitant use of clopidogrel with 40 mg esomeprazole reduces the pharmacological activity of clopidogrel. When using esomeprazole, a component of Nupralgin Plus, consider alternative anti-platelet therapy.

Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12)Deficiency

Daily treatment with any acid-suppressing medications over a long period of time (e.g., longer than 3 years) may lead to malabsorption of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B-12) caused by hypo-or achlorhydria. Rare reports of cyanocobalamin deficiency occurring with acid-suppressing therapy have been reported in the literature. This diagnosis should be considered if clinical symptoms consistent with cyanocobalamin deficiency are observed.

Hypomagnesemia

Hypomagnesemia, symptomatic and asymptomatic, has been reported rarely in patients treated with PPIs for at least three months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious adverse events include tetany, arrhythmias, and seizures. In most patients, treatment of hypomagnesemia required magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI.

For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with medications such as digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia (e.g., diuretics), health care professionals may consider monitoring magnesium levels prior to initiation of PPI treatment and periodically.

Concomitant Use Of St. John's Wort Or Rifampin With Nupralgin Plus

Drugs that induce CYP2C19 or CYP3A4 (such as St. John's Wort or rifampin) can substantially decrease esomeprazole concentrations. Avoid concomitant use of Nupralgin Plus with St. John's Wort or rifampin.

Interactions With Diagnostic Investigations For Neuroendocrine Tumors

Serum chromogranin A (CgA) levels increase secondary to drug-induced decreases in gastric acidity. The increased CgA level may cause false positive results in diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. Providers should temporarily stop esomeprazole treatment at least 14 days before assessing CgA levels and consider repeating the test if initial CgA levels are high. If serial tests are performed (e.g. for monitoring), the same commercial laboratory should be used for testing, as reference ranges between tests may vary.

Concomitant Use Of Nupralgin Plus With Methotrexate

Literature suggests that concomitant use of PPIs with methotrexate (primarily at high dose; see methotrexate prescribing information) may elevate and prolong serum levels of methotrexate and/or its metabolite, possibly leading to methotrexate toxicities. In high-dose methotrexate administration a temporary withdrawal of the PPI may be considered in some patients.

Patient Counseling Information

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

Inform patients, families, or caregivers of the following before initiating therapy with Nupralgin Plus and periodically during the course of ongoing therapy.

Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events

Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events, including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech, and to report any of these symptoms to their health care provider immediately.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, And Perforation

Advise patients to report symptoms of ulcerations and bleeding, including epigastric pain, dyspepsia, melena, and hematemesis to their health care provider. In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, inform patients of the increased risk for and the signs and symptoms of GI bleeding.

Hepatotoxicity

Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and “flu-like” symptoms). If these occur, instruct patients to stop Nupralgin Plus and seek immediate medical therapy.

Heart Failure And Edema

Advise patients to be alert for the symptoms of congestive heart failure including shortness of breath, unexplained weight gain, or edema and to contact their health care provider if such symptoms occur.

Anaphylactic Reactions

Inform patients of the signs of an anaphylactic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat). If these occur, patients should be instructed to seek immediate emergency help.

Serious Skin Reactions

Advise patients to stop Nupralgin Plus immediately if they develop any type of rash and contact their health care provider as soon as possible.

Fetal Toxicity

Inform pregnant women to avoid use of Nupralgin Plus and other NSAIDs starting at 30 weeks gestation because of the risk of the premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.

Infertility

Advise females of reproductive potential that NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, may be associated with reversible infertility.

Gastric Malignancy

To return to their healthcare provider if they have a gastric symptoms while taking Nupralgin Plus or after completing treatment.

Acute Interstitial Nephritis

Advise patients to report to their health care provider if they experience a decrease in the amount they urinate or have blood in their urine.

Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea

Advise patients to immediately report and seek care for diarrhea that does not improve. This may be a sign of Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea.

Bone Fracture

Advise patients to report any sign or symptom of osteoporosis (e.g., recent bone fracture, low bone density) to their health care provider.

Cutaneous And Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Advise patients to immediately call their healthcare provider any new or worsening of symptoms associated with cutaneous or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12) Deficiency

Advise patients taking Nupralgin Plus for long periods of time, to report to their healthcare provider if they experience weakness, tiredness, or light-headedness or rapid heartbeat and breathing or pale skin.

Hypomagnesemia

Advise patients to immediately report and seek care for any cardiovascular or neurological symptoms including palpitations, dizziness, seizures, and tetany as these may be signs of hypomagnesemia.

Drug Interactions

• Inform patients that the concomitant use of Nupralgin Plus with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) it is not recommended due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity, and little or no increase in efficacy. Alert patients that NSAIDs may be present in the “over the counter” medications for treatment of colds, fever or insomnia.
• Advise patients to report to their healthcare provider if they start treatment with clopidogrel, St. John's Wort or rifampin; or, if they take high-dose methotrexate.
• Inform patients not to use low-dose aspirin concomitantly with Nupralgin Plus until they talk to their health care provider.

Administration

• Inform patients that Nupralgin Plus tablets should be swallowed whole with liquid. Tablets should not be split, chewed, crushed or dissolved. Nupralgin Plus tablets should be taken at least 30 minutes before meals.
• Patients should be instructed that if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if the next scheduled dose is due, the patient should not take the missed dose, and should be instructed to take the next dose on time. Patients should be instructed not to take 2 doses at one time to make up for a missed dose.
• Inform patients that antacids may be used while taking Nupralgin Plus.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, And Impairment Of Fertility

Carcinogenesis

Naproxen

A 2-year study was performed in rats to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of naproxen at rat doses of 8, 16, and 24 mg/kg/day (0.05, 0.1, and 0.16 times the maximum recommended human daily dose of 1500 mg/day based on a body surface area comparison). The maximum dose used was 0.28 times the highest recommended human dose. No evidence of tumorigenicity was found.

Esomeprazole

The carcinogenic potential of esomeprazole was assessed using omeprazole studies, of which esomeprazole is an enantiomer. In two 24-month oral carcinogenicity studies in rats, omeprazole at daily doses of 1.7, 3.4, 13.8, 44 and 140.8 mg/kg/day (about 0.41 to 34.2 times the human dose of 40 mg/day expressed on a body surface area basis) produced gastric ECL cell carcinoids in a dose-related manner in both male and female rats; the incidence of this effect was markedly higher in female rats, which had higher blood levels of omeprazole. Gastric carcinoids seldom occur in the untreated rat. In addition, ECL cell hyperplasia was present in all treated groups of both sexes. In one of these studies, female rats were treated with 13.8 mg omeprazole/kg/day (about 3.36 times the human dose of 40 mg/day on a body surface area basis) for 1 year, then followed for an additional year without the drug. No carcinoids were seen in these rats. An increased incidence of treatment-related ECL cell hyperplasia was observed at the end of 1 year (94% treated vs 10% controls). By the second year the difference between treated and control rats was much smaller (46% vs 26%) but still showed more hyperplasia in the treated group. Gastric adenocarcinoma was seen in one rat (2%). No similar tumor was seen in male or female rats treated for 2 years. For this strain of rat no similar tumor has been noted historically, but a finding involving only one tumor is difficult to interpret. A 78-week mouse carcinogenicity study of omeprazole did not show increased tumor occurrence, but the study was not conclusive.

Mutagenesis

Esomeprazole was negative in the Ames mutation test, in the in vivo rat bone marrow cell chromosome aberration test, and the in vivo mouse micronucleus test. Esomeprazole, however, was positive in the in vitro human lymphocyte chromosome aberration test. Omeprazole was positive in the in vitro human lymphocyte chromosome aberration test, the in vivo mouse bone marrow cell chromosome aberration test, and the in vivo mouse micronucleus test.

Impairment Of Fertility

The potential effects of esomeprazole on fertility and reproductive performance were assessed using omeprazole studies. Omeprazole at oral doses up to 138 mg/kg/day in rats (about 33.6 times the human dose of 40 mg/day on a body surface area basis) was found to have no effect on reproductive performance of parental animals.

Studies to evaluate the impact of naproxen on male or female fertility have not been completed.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Risk Summary

Use of NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, during the third trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Avoid use of NSAIDs, including Nupralgin Plus, in pregnant women starting at 30 weeks of gestation (third trimester). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Nupralgin Plus in pregnant women.

Nupralgin Plus contains naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium. Esomeprazole is the S- isomer of omeprazole.

Naproxen

Data from observational studies regarding potential embryofetal risks of NSAID use in women in the first or second trimesters of pregnancy are inconclusive. In animal reproduction studies, naproxen administered during organogenesis to rats and rabbits at doses less than the maximum recommended human daily dose of 1500 mg/day showed no evidence of harm to the fetus. Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as naproxen resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss.

Esomeprazole

There are no human data for esomeprazole. However, available epidemiologic data for omeprazole (esomeprazole is the S-isomer of omeprazole) fail to demonstrate an increased risk of major congenital malformations or other adverse pregnancy outcomes with first trimester omeprazole use. In animal studies with administration of oral esomeprazole magnesium in rats changes in bone morphology were observed in offspring of rats dosed through most of pregnancy and lactation at doses equal to or greater than approximately 34 times an oral human dose of 40 mg esomeprazole or 40 mg omeprazole. When maternal administration was confined to gestation only, there were no effects on bone physeal morphology in the offspring at any age.

The estimated background risks of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population are unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Clinical Considerations

Labor or Delivery

There are no studies on the effects of Nupralgin Plus during labor or delivery. In animal studies, NSAIDs, including naproxen, inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, cause delayed parturition, and increase the incidence of stillbirth.

Data

Human Data

Naproxen

When used to delay preterm labor, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis, including NSAIDs such naproxen, may increase the risk of neonatal complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis, patent ductus arteriosus and intracranial hemorrhage. Naproxen treatment given in late pregnancy to delay parturition has been associated with persistent pulmonary hypertension, renal dysfunction and abnormal prostaglandin E levels in preterm infants.

Esomeprazole

Esomeprazole is the S-isomer of omeprazole. Four epidemiological studies compared the frequency of congenital abnormalities among infants born to women who used omeprazole during pregnancy with the frequency of abnormalities among infants of women exposed to H2-receptor antagonists or other controls.

A population-based retrospective cohort epidemiological study from the Swedish Medical Birth Registry, covering approximately 99% of pregnancies, from 1995-99, reported on 955 infants (824 exposed during the first trimester with 39 of these exposed beyond first trimester, and 131 exposed af

The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:

• Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
• GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforations
• Hepatotoxicity
• Hypertension
• Heart Failure and Edema
• Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia
• Anaphylactic Reactions
• Serious Skin Reactions
• Hematologic Toxicity
• Active Bleeding
• Acute Interstitial Nephritis
• Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea
• Bone Fracture
• Cutaneous and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
• Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12) Deficiency
• Hypomagnesemia

Clinical Trials Experience

Clinical Trials Experience With Nupralgin Plus

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.

The adverse reactions reported below are specific to the clinical trials with Nupralgin Plus.

The safety of Nupralgin Plus was evaluated in clinical studies involving 2317 patients (aged 27 to 90 years) and ranging from 3 to 12 months. Patients received either 500 mg/20 mg of Nupralgin Plus twice daily (n=1157), 500 mg of enteric-coated naproxen twice daily (n=426), or placebo (n=246). The average number of Nupralgin Plus doses taken over 12 months was 696+44.

The table below lists all adverse reactions, regardless of causality, occurring in > 2% of patients receiving Nupralgin Plus and higher in the Nupralgin Plus group than control from two clinical studies (Study 1 and Study 2). Both of these studies were randomized, multi-center, double-blind, parallel studies. The majority of patients were female (67%), white (86%). The majority of patients were 50-69 years of age (83%). Approximately one quarter were on low-dose aspirin.

Table 1: Adverse Reactions* in Study 1 and Study 2 (endoscopic studies)

In Study 1 and Study 2, patients taking Nupralgin Plus had fewer premature discontinuations due to adverse reactions compared to patients taking enteric-coated naproxen alone (7.9% vs. 12.5% respectively). The most common reasons for discontinuations due to adverse events in the Nupralgin Plus treatment group were upper abdominal pain (1.2%, n=5), duodenal ulcer (0.7%, n=3) and erosive gastritis (0.7%, n=3). Among patients receiving enteric-coated naproxen, the most common reasons for discontinuations due to adverse events were duodenal ulcer 5.4% (n=23), dyspepsia 2.8% (n=12) and upper abdominal pain 1.2% (n=5). The proportion of patients discontinuing treatment due to any upper gastrointestinal adverse events (including duodenal ulcers) in patients treated with Nupralgin Plus was 4% compared to 12% for patients taking enteric-coated naproxen.

The table below lists all adverse reactions, regardless of causality, occurring in > 2% of patients and higher in the Nupralgin Plus group than placebo from 2 clinical studies conducted in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (Study 3 and Study 4).

Table 2: Adverse Reactions* in Study 3 and Study 4

The percentage of subjects who withdrew from the Nupralgin Plus treatment group in these studies due to treatment-emergent adverse events was 7%. There were no preferred terms in which more than 1% of subjects withdrew from any treatment group.

The long-term safety of Nupralgin Plus was evaluated in an open-label clinical trial of 239 patients, of which 135 patients received 500 mg/20 mg of Nupralgin Plus for 12 months. There were no differences in frequency or types of adverse reactions seen in the long-term safety study compared to shorter-term treatment in the randomized controlled studies.

Clinical Trials Experience With Naproxen And Other NSAIDs

In patients taking naproxen in clinical trials, the most frequent reported adverse experiences in approximately 1% to 10% of patients are:

Gastrointestinal: heartburn, nausea, dyspepsia, stomatitis

Central Nervous System: drowsiness, lightheadedness, vertigo

Dermatologic: pruritus, skin eruptions, ecchymoses, sweating, purpura

Special Senses: tinnitus, visual disturbances, hearing disturbances

Cardiovascular: palpitations

General: dyspnea, thirst

In patients taking NSAIDs, the following adverse experiences have also been reported in approximately 1% to 10% of patients.

Gastrointestinal: gross bleeding/perforation, GI ulcers (gastric/duodenal), vomiting

General: abnormal renal function, anemia, elevated liver enzymes, increased bleeding time, rashes

The following are additional adverse experiences reported in < 1% of patients taking naproxen during clinical trials.

Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis

Hepatobiliary: jaundice

Hemic and Lymphatic: melena, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis

Nervous System: inability to concentrate

Dermatologic: skin rashes

In patients taking NSAIDs, the following adverse experiences have also been reported in < 1% of patients.

Body as a Whole: fever, infection, sepsis, anaphylactic reactions, appetite changes, death

Cardiovascular: hypertension, tachycardia, syncope, arrhythmia, hypotension, myocardial infarction

Gastrointestinal: dry mouth, glossitis, eructation

Hepatobiliary: hepatitis, liver failure

Hemic and Lymphatic: rectal bleeding, lymphadenopathy, pancytopenia

Metabolic and Nutritional: weight changes

Nervous System: anxiety, asthenia, confusion, nervousness, paresthesia, somnolence, tremor, coma, hallucinations

Respiratory: asthma, respiratory depression, pneumonia

Dermatologic: exfoliative dermatitis

Special Senses: blurred vision, conjunctivitis

Urogenital: cystitis, dysuria, oliguria/polyuria, proteinuria

Clinical Trials Experience With Esomeprazole Magnesium

Additional adverse reactions that were reported as possibly or probably related to esomeprazole magnesium with an incidence of < 1% are listed below by body system:

Body as a Whole: abdomen enlarged, allergic reaction, asthenia, back pain, chest pain, substernal chest pain, facial edema, hot flushes, fatigue, fever, flu-like disorder, generalized edema, malaise, pain, rigors

Cardiovascular: flushing, hypertension, tachycardia

Endocrine: goiter

Gastrointestinal: dyspepsia, dysphagia, dysplasia GI, epigastric pain, eructation, esophageal disorder, gastroenteritis, GI hemorrhage, GI symptoms not otherwise specified, hiccup, melena, mouth disorder, pharynx disorder, rectal disorder, serum gastrin increased, tongue disorder, tongue edema, ulcerative stomatitis, vomiting

Hearing: earache, tinnitus

Hematologic: anemia, anemia hypochromic, cervical lymphadenopathy, epistaxis, leukocytosis, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia

Hepatic: bilirubinemia, hepatic function abnormal, SGOT increased, SGPT increased

Metabolic/Nutritional: glycosuria, hyperuricemia, hyponatremia, increased alkaline phosphatase, thirst, vitamin B12 deficiency, weight increase, weight decrease

Musculoskeletal: arthralgia, arthritis aggravated, arthropathy, cramps, fibromyalgia syndrome, hernia, polymyalgia rheumatica

Nervous System/Psychiatric: anorexia, apathy, appetite increased, confusion, depression aggravated, hypertonia, nervousness, hypoesthesia, impotence, insomnia, migraine, migraine aggravated, paresthesia, sleep disorder, somnolence, tremor, vertigo, visual field defect

Reproductive: dysmenorrhea, menstrual disorder, vaginitis

Respiratory: asthma aggravated, coughing, dyspnea, larynx edema, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis

Skin and Appendages: acne, angioedema, dermatitis, pruritus, pruritus ani, rash, rash erythematous, rash maculo-papular, skin inflammation, sweating increased, urticaria

Special Senses: otitis media, parosmia, taste loss

Urogenital: abnormal urine, albuminuria, cystitis, dysuria, fungal infection, hematuria, micturition frequency, moniliasis, genital moniliasis, polyuria

Visual: conjunctivitis, vision abnormal

The following potentially clinically significant laboratory changes in clinical trials, irrespective of relationship to esomeprazole magnesium, were reported in ≤ 1% of patients: increased creatinine, uric acid, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, ALT, AST, hemoglobin, white blood cell count, platelets, serum gastrin, potassium, sodium, thyroxine and thyroid stimulating hormone. Decreases were seen in hemoglobin, white blood cell count, platelets, potassium, sodium, and thyroxine.

Endoscopic findings that were reported as adverse reactions include: duodenitis, esophagitis, esophageal stricture, esophageal ulceration, esophageal varices, gastric ulcer, hernia, benign polyps or nodules, Barrett's esophagus, and mucosal discoloration.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Nupralgin Plus. 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.

Nupralgin Plus

Body as a Whole: gait disturbance

Gastrointestinal: abdominal distension, abdominal pain, gastroesophageal reflux, hematochezia

Injury, Poisoning and Procedural Complications: contusion, fall

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue: joint swelling, muscle spasms

Urogenital: renal tubular necrosis

Naproxen

Body as a Whole: angioneurotic edema, menstrual disorders

Cardiovascular: congestive heart failure, vasculitis, pulmonary edema

Gastrointestinal: inflammation, bleeding (sometimes fatal, particularly in the elderly), ulceration, and obstruction of the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract, esophagitis, stomatitis, hematemesis, colitis, exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)

Hepatobiliary: hepatitis (some cases have been fatal)

Hemic and Lymphatic: eosinophilia, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia

Metabolic and Nutritional: hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia

Nervous System: depression, dream abnormalities, insomnia, malaise, myalgia, muscle weakness, aseptic meningitis, cognitive dysfunction, convulsions

Respiratory: eosinophilic pneumonitis

Dermatologic: alopecia, urticaria, toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, fixed drug eruption, lichen planus, pustular reaction, systemic lupus erythematoses, bullous reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, photosensitive dermatitis, photosensitivity reactions, including rare cases resembling porphyria cutanea tarda (pseudoporphyria) or epidermolysis bullosa. If skin fragility, blistering or other symptoms suggestive of pseudoporphyria occur, treatment should be discontinued and the patient monitored.

Special Senses: hearing impairment, corneal opacity, papillitis, retrobulbar optic neuritis, papilledema

Urogenital: glomerular nephritis, hematuria, hyperkalemia, interstitial nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, renal disease, renal failure, renal papillary necrosis, raised serum creatinine

Reproduction (female): infertility

Esomeprazole Magnesium

Blood and Lymphatic: agranulocytosis

Eye: blurred vision

Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis, microscopic colitis

Hepatobiliary: hepatic failure, hepatitis with or without jaundice

Immune System: anaphylactic reaction/shock, systemic lupus erythematosus

Infections and Infestations: GI candidiasis, Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea

Metabolism and Nutritional Disorders: hypomagnesemia, with or without hypocalcemia and/or hypokalemia

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue: muscular weakness, myalgia, bone fracture

Nervous System: hepatic encephalopathy

Psychiatric: aggression, agitation, hallucination

Renal and Urinary: interstitial nephritis

Reproductive System and Breast: gynecomastia

Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal: bronchospasm

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: alopecia, erythema multiforme, photosensitivity, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (some fatal), cutaneous lupus erythematosus

There is no clinical data on overdosage with Nupralgin Plus.

Overdosage of Naproxen

Symptoms following acute NSAID overdosages have been typically limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which have been generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding has occurred. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma have occurred but were rare.

A few patients have experienced seizures, but it is not clear whether or not these were drug-related. It is not known what dose of the drug would be life threatening. The oral LD50 of the drug is 500 mg/kg in rats, 1200 mg/kg in mice, 4000 mg/kg in hamsters and greater than 1000 mg/kg in dogs. In animals 0.5 g/kg of activated charcoal was effective in reducing plasma levels of naproxen.

Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. Hemodialysis does not decrease the plasma concentration of naproxen because of the high degree of its protein binding. Consider emesis and/or activated charcoal (60 to 100 grams in adults, 1 to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients seen within four hours of ingestion or in patients with a large overdosage (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage). Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding.

Overdosage of Esomeprazole

A single oral dose of esomeprazole at 510 mg/kg (about 124 times the human dose on a body surface area basis) was lethal to rats. The major signs of acute toxicity were reduced motor activity, changes in respiratory frequency, tremor, ataxia, and intermittent clonic convulsions. The symptoms described in connection with deliberate esomeprazole overdose (limited experience of doses in excess of 240 mg/day) are transient. Single doses of 80 mg of esomeprazole were uneventful. Reports of overdosage with omeprazole in humans may also be relevant. Doses ranged up to 2,400 mg (120 times the usual recommended clinical dose). Manifestations were variable, but included confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, tachycardia, nausea, diaphoresis, flushing, headache, dry mouth, and other adverse reactions similar to those seen in normal clinical experience (see omeprazole package insert -Adverse Reactions). No specific antidote for esomeprazole is known. Since esomeprazole is extensively protein bound, it is not expected to be removed by dialysis. In the event of overdosage, treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

If over-exposure occurs, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for current information on the management of poisoning or overdosage.

Antisecretory Activity

The effect of Nupralgin Plus on intragastric pH was determined in 25 healthy volunteers in one study. Three Nupralgin Plus combinations (naproxen 500 mg combined with either esomeprazole 10, 20, or 30 mg) were administered twice daily over 9 days. The results are shown in the following table:

Table 5: Effect on Intragastric pH on Day 9 (N=25)

Serum Gastrin Effects

The effect of esomeprazole on serum gastrin concentrations was evaluated in approximately 2,700 patients in clinical trials up to 8 weeks and in over 1,300 patients for up to 6-12 months. The mean fasting gastrin level increased in a dose-related manner. This increase reached a plateau within two to three months of therapy and returned to baseline levels within four weeks after discontinuation of therapy.

Increased gastrin causes enterochromaffin-like cell hyperplasia and increased serum Chromogranin A (CgA) levels. The increased CgA levels may cause false positive results in diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. Healthcare providers should temporarily stop esomeprazole treatment at least 14 days before assessing CgA levels and consider repeating the test if initial CgA levels are high.

Enterochromaffin-like (ECL) Cell Effects

In over 1,000 patients treated with esomeprazole (10, 20 or 40 mg/day) up to 6-12 months, the prevalence of ECL cell hyperplasia increased with time and dose. No patient developed ECL cell carcinoids, dysplasia, or neoplasia in the gastric mucosa.

Endocrine Effects

Esomeprazole had no effect on thyroid function when given in oral doses of 20 or 40 mg for 4 weeks. Other effects of esomeprazole on the endocrine system were assessed using omeprazole studies. Omeprazole given in oral doses of 30 or 40 mg for 2 to 4 weeks had no effect on carbohydrate metabolism, circulating levels of parathyroid hormone, cortisol, estradiol, testosterone, prolactin, cholecystokinin or secretin.

Effects On Gastrointestinal Microbial Ecology

Decreased gastric acidity due to any means including proton pump inhibitors, increases gastric counts of bacteria normally present in the gastrointestinal tract. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors may lead to slightly increased risk of gastrointestinal infections such as Salmonella and Campylobacter and, in hospitalized patients, possibly also Clostridium difficile.

Absorption

Naproxen

At steady state following administration of Nupralgin Plus twice daily, peak plasma concentrations of naproxen are reached on average 3 hours following both the morning and the evening dose.

Bioequivalence between Nupralgin Plus and enteric-coated naproxen, based on both area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of naproxen, has been demonstrated for both the 375 mg and 500 mg doses.

Naproxen is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with an in vivo bioavailability of 95%.

Steady-state levels of naproxen are reached in 4 to 5 days.

Esomeprazole

Following administration of Nupralgin Plus twice daily, esomeprazole is rapidly absorbed with peak plasma concentration reached within on average, 0.43 to 1.2 hours, following the morning and evening dose on both the first day of administration and at steady state. The peak plasma concentrations of esomeprazole are higher at steady state compared to on first day of dosing of Nupralgin Plus.

Figure 1 represents the pharmacokinetics of naproxen and esomeprazole following administration of Nupralgin Plus 500 mg/20 mg.

Figure 1: Mean plasma concentrations of naproxen and esomeprazole following single dose administration of Nupralgin Plus (500mg/20 mg)

Food Effect

Administration of Nupralgin Plus together with high-fat food in healthy volunteers does not affect the extent of absorption of naproxen but significantly prolongs tmax by 10 hours and decreases peak plasma concentration (Cmax) by about 12%.

Administration of Nupralgin Plus together with high-fat food in healthy volunteers delays tmax of esomeprazole by 1 hour and significantly reduces the extent of absorption, resulting in 52% and 75% reductions of area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) and peak plasma concentration (Cmax), respectively.

Administration of Nupralgin Plus 30 minutes before high-fat food intake in healthy volunteers does not affect the extent of absorption of naproxen but delays the absorption by about 4 hours and decreases peak plasma concentration (Cmax) by about 17%, but has no significant effect on the rate or extent of esomeprazole absorption compared to administration under fasted conditions.

Administration of Nupralgin Plus 60 minutes before high-fat food intake in healthy volunteers has no effect on the rate and extent of naproxen absorption; however, increases the esomeprazole AUC by 25% and Cmax by 50% compared to administration under fasted conditions. This increase in esomeprazole Cmax does not raise a safety issue since the approved dosing regimen of esomeprazole at 40 mg QD would result in higher Cmax.

Therefore, Nupralgin Plus should be taken at least 30 minutes before the meal.

Distribution

Naproxen

Naproxen has a volume of distribution of 0.16 L/kg. At therapeutic levels naproxen is greater than 99% albumin-bound. At doses of naproxen greater than 500 mg/day there is less than proportional increase in plasma levels due to an increase in clearance caused by saturation of plasma protein binding at higher doses (average trough Css 36.5, 49.2 and 56.4 mg/L with 500, 1000 and 1500 mg daily doses of naproxen, respectively). The naproxen anion has been found in the milk of lactating women at a concentration equivalent to approximately 1% of maximum naproxen concentration in plasma.

Esomeprazole

The apparent volume of distribution at steady state in healthy subjects is approximately 16L. Esomeprazole is 97% plasma protein bound.

Elimination

Metabolism

Naproxen

Naproxen is extensively metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 system (CYP), CYP2C9 and CYP1A2, to 6-0-desmethyl naproxen. Neither the parent drug nor the metabolites induce metabolizing enzymes. Both naproxen and 6-0-desmethyl naproxen are further metabolized to their respective acylglucuronide conjugated metabolites. Consistent with the half-life of naproxen, the area under the plasma concentration time curve increases with repeated dosing of Nupralgin Plus twice daily.

Esomeprazole

Esomeprazole is extensively metabolized in the liver by the CYP enzyme system. The major part of the metabolism of esomeprazole is dependent on the polymorphic CYP2C19, responsible for the formation of the hydroxyl- and desmethyl metabolites of esomeprazole. The remaining part is dependent on another specific isoform CYP3A4, responsible for the formation of esomeprazole sulphone, the main metabolite in plasma. The major metabolites of esomeprazole have no effect on gastric acid secretion.

The area under the plasma esomeprazole concentration-time curve increases with repeated administration of Nupralgin Plus. This increase is dose-dependent and results in a non-linear dose-AUC relationship after repeated administration. An increased absorption of esomeprazole with repeated administration of Nupralgin Plus probably also contributes to the time-and dose-dependency.

Excretion

Naproxen

Following administration of Nupralgin Plus twice daily, the mean elimination half-life for naproxen is approximately 15 hours following the evening dose, with no change with repeated dosing.

The clearance of naproxen is 0.13 mL/min/kg. Approximately 95% of the naproxen from any dose is excreted in the urine, primarily as naproxen ( < 1%), 6-0-desmethyl naproxen ( < 1%) or their conjugates (66% to 92%). Small amounts, 3% or less of the administered dose, are excreted in the feces. In patients with renal failure, metabolites may accumulate.

Esomeprazole

Following administration of Nupralgin Plus twice daily, the mean elimination half-life of esomeprazole is approximately 1 hour following both the morning and evening dose on day 1, with a slightly longer elimination half-life at steady state (1.2-1.5 hours).

Almost 80% of an oral dose of esomeprazole is excreted as metabolites in the urine, the remainder in the feces. Less than 1% of the parent drug is found in the urine.