Miscellaneous antineoplastics
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Tecartus Prescribing Information

Drug Detail:Tecartus (Brexucabtagene autoleucel [ brex-ue-kab-ta-jeen-ah-toe-loo-sel ])

Drug Class: Miscellaneous antineoplastics

Contents
Uses Warnings Before Taking Dosage Side effects Interactions

Highlights of Prescribing Information

These highlights do not include all the information needed to use TECARTUS safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for TECARTUS.

TECARTUS® (brexucabtagene autoleucel) suspension for intravenous infusion
Initial U.S. Approval: 2020

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME AND NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES

See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving TECARTUS. Do not administer TECARTUS to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids (2.2, 2.3, 5.1).
  • Neurologic toxicities, including life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving TECARTUS, including concurrently with CRS or after CRS resolution. Monitor for neurologic toxicities after treatment with TECARTUS. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids, as needed (2.2, 2.3, 5.2).
  • TECARTUS is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program (5.3).

Recent Major Changes

Indications and Usage (1.2)10/2021
Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2)10/2021
Warning and Precautions, Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (5.4)10/2021
Warning and Precautions, Severe Infections (5.6)02/2021

Indications and Usage for Tecartus

TECARTUS is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of: (1)

  • Adult patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).
    This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial.
  • Adult patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Tecartus Dosage and Administration

For autologous use only. For intravenous use only.

  • Do NOT use a leukodepleting filter.
  • Administer a lymphodepleting regimen of cyclophosphamide and fludarabine before infusion of TECARTUS. (2.2)
  • Verify the patient's identity prior to infusion. (2.2)
  • Premedicate with acetaminophen and diphenhydramine. (2.2)
  • Confirm availability of tocilizumab prior to infusion. (2.2, 5.1)
  • Dosing of TECARTUS is based on the number of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-positive viable T cells. (2.1)
  • MCL: dose is 2 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 2 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells. (2.1)
  • ALL: dose is 1 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 1 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells. (2.1)
  • Administer TECARTUS in a certified healthcare facility. (2.2, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3)

Dosage Forms and Strengths

  • TECARTUS is available as a cell suspension for infusion.
  • MCL: Comprises a suspension of 2 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg of body weight, with a maximum of 2 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells in approximately 68 mL. (3)
  • ALL: Comprises a suspension of 1 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg of body weight, with a maximum of 1 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells in approximately 68 mL. (3)

Contraindications

  • None. (4)

Warnings and Precautions

  • Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome: Administer treatment per institutional standards. (5.4)
  • Hypersensitivity Reactions: Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions during infusion. (5.5)
  • Severe Infections: Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection; treat appropriately. (5.6)
  • Prolonged Cytopenias: Patients may exhibit Grade 3 or higher cytopenias for several weeks following TECARTUS infusion. Monitor complete blood counts. (5.7)
  • Hypogammaglobulinemia: Monitor and provide replacement therapy. (5.8)
  • Secondary Malignancies: In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs after treatment with TECARTUS, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483). (5.9)
  • Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines: Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, for at least 8 weeks after receiving TECARTUS. (5.10)

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

The most common non-laboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 20%) are:

  • MCL: fever, CRS, hypotension, encephalopathy, fatigue, tachycardia, arrhythmia, infection with pathogen unspecified, chills, hypoxia, cough, tremor, musculoskeletal pain, headache, nausea, edema, motor dysfunction, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, dyspnea, rash, insomnia, pleural effusion, and aphasia. (6.1)
  • ALL: fever, CRS, hypotension, encephalopathy, tachycardia, nausea, chills, headache, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, diarrhea, musculoskeletal pain, hypoxia, rash, edema, tremor, infection with pathogen unspecified, constipation, decreased appetite, and vomiting. (6.1).

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and Medication Guide.

Revised: 10/2021

Full Prescribing Information

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving TECARTUS. Do not administer TECARTUS to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
  • Neurologic toxicities, including life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving TECARTUS, including concurrently with CRS or after CRS resolution. Monitor for neurologic toxicities after treatment with TECARTUS. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids, as needed [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
  • TECARTUS is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

2. Tecartus Dosage and Administration

For autologous use only. For intravenous use only.

Each single infusion bag of TECARTUS contains a suspension of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-positive T cells in approximately 68 mL.

2.1 Dose

Recommended Dosage for MCL

The target dose is 2 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 2 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells.

Recommended Dosage for ALL

The target dose is 1 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 1 × 108 CAR-positive viable T cells.

2.2 Administration

TECARTUS is for autologous use only. The patient's identity must match the patient identifiers on the TECARTUS cassette and infusion bag. Do not infuse TECARTUS if the information on the patient-specific label does not match the intended patient.

Preparing Patient for TECARTUS Infusion

Confirm availability of TECARTUS prior to starting the lymphodepleting chemotherapy regimen.

Pre-treatment

  • MCL: Administer a lymphodepleting chemotherapy regimen of cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 intravenously and fludarabine 30 mg/m2 intravenously on each of the fifth, fourth, and third day before infusion of TECARTUS.
  • ALL: Administer a lymphodepleting chemotherapy regimen of fludarabine 25 mg/m2 intravenously over 30 minutes on the fourth, third, and second day and administer cyclophosphamide 900 mg/m2 over 60 minutes on the second day before infusion of TECARTUS.

Premedication

  • Premedicate with acetaminophen and diphenhydramine or another H1-antihistamine approximately 30 to 60 minutes prior to TECARTUS infusion.
  • Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as it may interfere with the activity of TECARTUS.

Preparation of TECARTUS for infusion

Coordinate the timing of TECARTUS thaw and infusion. Confirm the infusion time in advance, and adjust the start time of TECARTUS thaw such that TECARTUS will be available for infusion when the patient is ready.

  • Confirm patient identity: Prior to TECARTUS preparation, match the patient's identity with the patient identifiers on the TECARTUS cassette.
  • Do not remove the TECARTUS infusion bag from the cassette if the patient information on the cassette label does not match the intended patient.
  • Once patient identity is confirmed, remove the TECARTUS infusion bag from the cassette and check that the patient information on the cassette label matches the patient information on the bag label.
  • Inspect the infusion bag for any breaches of container integrity such as breaks or cracks before thawing. If the bag is compromised, follow the local guidelines (or call Kite at 1-844-454-KITE).
  • Place the infusion bag inside a second sterile bag per local guidelines.
  • Thaw the infusion bag at approximately 37°C using either a water bath or dry-thaw method until there is no visible ice in the infusion bag.
  • Gently mix the contents of the bag to disperse clumps of cellular material. If visible cell clumps remain, continue to gently mix the contents of the bag. Small clumps of cellular material should disperse with gentle manual mixing. Do not wash, spin down, and/or re-suspend TECARTUS in new media prior to infusion.
  • Once thawed, TECARTUS should be administered within 30 minutes but may be stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) for up to three hours.

Administration

  • For autologous use only.
  • Ensure that tocilizumab and emergency equipment are available prior to infusion and during the recovery period.
  • Do NOT use a leukodepleting filter.
  • Central venous access is recommended for the administration of TECARTUS.
  • Confirm that the patient's identity matches the patient identifiers on the TECARTUS infusion bag.
  • Prime the tubing with normal saline prior to infusion.
  • Infuse the entire contents of the TECARTUS bag within 30 minutes by either gravity or a peristaltic pump. TECARTUS is stable at room temperature for up to three hours after thaw.
  • Gently agitate the TECARTUS bag during infusion to prevent cell clumping.
  • After the entire contents of the TECARTUS bag are infused, rinse the tubing with normal saline at the same infusion rate to ensure all product is delivered.

TECARTUS contains human blood cells that are genetically modified with replication-incompetent retroviral vector. Follow universal precautions and local biosafety guidelines for handling and disposal of TECARTUS to avoid potential transmission of infectious diseases.

Monitoring

  • Administer TECARTUS at a certified healthcare facility.
  • Monitor patients at the certified healthcare facility daily for at least seven days for patients with MCL and at least 14 days for patients with ALL following infusion for signs and symptoms of Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) and neurologic events.
  • Instruct patients to remain within proximity of the certified healthcare facility for at least four weeks following infusion.

2.3 Management of Severe Adverse Reactions

Cytokine Release Syndrome

Identify CRS based on clinical presentation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. If CRS is suspected, manage according to the recommendations in Table 1. Patients who experience Grade 2 or higher CRS (e.g., hypotension, not responsive to fluids, or hypoxia requiring supplemental oxygenation) should be monitored with continuous cardiac telemetry and pulse oximetry. For patients experiencing severe CRS, consider performing an echocardiogram to assess cardiac function. For severe or life-threatening CRS, consider intensive care supportive therapy.

Table 1. CRS Grading and Management Guidance
CRS Grade*TocilizumabCorticosteroids
*
Lee et al. 2014.
†
Refer to tocilizumab Prescribing Information for details.
‡
Refer to Table 2 for management of neurologic toxicity.
Grade 1
Symptoms require symptomatic treatment only (e.g., fever, nausea, fatigue, headache, myalgia, malaise).		If not improving after 24 hours, administer tocilizumab† 8 mg/kg intravenously over 1 hour (not to exceed 800 mg).Not applicable.
Grade 2
Symptoms require and respond to moderate intervention.
Oxygen requirement less than 40% FiO2 or hypotension responsive to fluids or low dose of one vasopressor or Grade 2 organ toxicity.‡		Administer tocilizumab 8 mg/kg intravenously over 1 hour (not to exceed 800 mg).
Repeat tocilizumab every 8 hours as needed if not responsive to intravenous fluids or increasing supplemental oxygen. Limit to a maximum of 3 doses in a 24-hour period; maximum total of 4 doses if no clinical improvement in the signs and symptoms of CRS.
If improving, discontinue tocilizumab.		Manage per Grade 3 if no improvement within 24 hours after starting tocilizumab.
If improving, taper corticosteroids.
Grade 3
Symptoms require and respond to aggressive intervention.
Oxygen requirement greater than or equal to 40% FiO2 or hypotension requiring high-dose or multiple vasopressors or Grade 3 organ toxicity or Grade 4 transaminitis.		Per Grade 2
If improving, discontinue tocilizumab.		Administer methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg intravenously twice daily or equivalent dexamethasone (e.g., 10 mg intravenously every 6 hours) until Grade 1, then taper corticosteroids.
If improving, manage as Grade 2.
If not improving, manage as Grade 4.
Grade 4
Life-threatening symptoms.
Requirements for ventilator support or continuous veno-venous hemodialysis (CVVHD), or Grade 4 organ toxicity (excluding transaminitis).		Per Grade 2
If improving, discontinue tocilizumab.		Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously per day for 3 days.
If improving, taper corticosteroids, and manage as Grade 3.
If not improving, consider alternate immunosuppressants.

Neurologic Toxicity

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicities (Table 2). Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Patients who experience Grade 2 or higher neurologic toxicities should be monitored with continuous cardiac telemetry and pulse oximetry. Provide intensive care supportive therapy for severe or life-threatening neurologic toxicities. Consider non-sedating anti-seizure medicines (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis for any Grade 2 or higher neurologic toxicities.

Table 2. Neurologic Toxicity Grading and Management Guidance
Neurologic Event*Concurrent CRSNo Concurrent CRS
Abbreviation: ADLs, activities of daily living.
*
Severity based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events.
Grade 1
Examples include:
Somnolence – mild drowsiness or sleepiness
Confusion – mild disorientation
Encephalopathy – mild limiting of ADLs
Dysphasia – not impairing ability to communicate		Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 1 CRS.Supportive care.
Grade 2
Examples include:
Somnolence – moderate limiting instrumental ADLs
Confusion – moderate disorientation
Encephalopathy – limiting instrumental ADLs
Dysphasia moderate impairing ability to communicate spontaneously
Seizure(s)		Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS.
If not improving within 24 hours after starting tocilizumab, administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously every 6 hours until the event is Grade 1 or less, then taper corticosteroids.
If improving, discontinue tocilizumab.
If still not improving, manage as Grade 3.		Administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously every 6 hours until the event is Grade 1 or less.
If improving, taper corticosteroids.
Consider non-sedating, anti-seizure medicines (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis.
Grade 3
Examples include:
Somnolence – obtundation or stupor
Confusion – severe disorientation
Encephalopathy – limiting self-care ADLs
Dysphasia – severe receptive or expressive characteristics, impairing ability to read, write, or communicate intelligibly		Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS.
In addition, administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously with the first dose of tocilizumab and repeat dose every 6 hours. Continue dexamethasone use until the event is Grade 1 or less, then taper corticosteroids.
If improving, discontinue tocilizumab and manage as Grade 2.
If still not improving, manage as Grade 4.		Administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously every 6 hours.
Continue dexamethasone use until the event is Grade 1 or less, then taper corticosteroids.
If not improving, manage as Grade 4.
Consider non-sedating anti-seizure medicines (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis.
Grade 4
Life-threatening consequences
Urgent intervention indicated
Requirement for mechanical ventilation
Consider cerebral edema		Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS.
Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously per day with first dose of tocilizumab and continue methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously per day for 2 more days.
If improving, then manage as Grade 3.
If not improving, consider alternate immunosuppressants.		Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously per day for 3 days.
If improving, then manage as Grade 3.
If not improving, consider alternate immunosuppressants.
Consider non-sedating anti-seizure medicines (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis.

5. Warnings and Precautions

5.1 Cytokine Release Syndrome

CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with TECARTUS. CRS occurred in 91% (75/82) of patients with MCL, including ≥ Grade 3 (Lee grading system1) CRS in 18% of patients. Among the patients with MCL who died after receiving TECARTUS, one patient had a fatal CRS event. The median time to onset of CRS was three days (range: 1 to 13 days) and the median duration of CRS was ten days (range: 1 to 50 days) for patients with MCL. CRS occurred in 92% (72/78) of patients with ALL, including ≥ Grade 3 (Lee grading system1) CRS in 26% of patients. Three patients with ALL had ongoing CRS events at the time of death. The median time to onset of CRS was five days (range: 1 to 12 days) and the median duration of CRS was eight days (range: 2 to 63 days) for patients with ALL.

The incidence of CRS (first occurrence) within the first seven days after TECARTUS infusion was 83% (68/82) in patients with MCL and 90% (70/78) in patients with ALL. In all patients combined (MCL/ALL), the incidence of first CRS (first occurrence) within the first seven days after TECARTUS infusion was 86% (138/160).

Among patients with CRS, the key manifestations (>10%) were similar in MCL and ALL and included fever (93%), hypotension (62%), tachycardia (59%), chills (32%), hypoxia (31%), headache (21%), fatigue (20%), and nausea (13%). Serious events associated with CRS in MCL and ALL combined (≥ 2%) included hypotension, fever, hypoxia, tachycardia, and dyspnea [see Adverse Reactions (6)].

Ensure that a minimum of two doses of tocilizumab are available for each patient prior to infusion of TECARTUS. Monitor patients daily for at least seven days for patients with MCL and at least 14 days for patients with ALL at the certified healthcare facility following infusion for signs and symptoms of CRS. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for four weeks after infusion. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time [see Patient Counseling Information (17)]. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab, or tocilizumab and corticosteroids as indicated [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

5.2 Neurologic Toxicities

Neurologic events, including those that were fatal or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with TECARTUS. Neurologic events occurred in 81% (66/82) of patients with MCL, including ≥ Grade 3 in 37% of patients. The median time to onset for neurologic events was six days (range: 1 to 32 days) with a median duration of 21 days (range: 2 to 454 days) in patients with MCL. Neurologic events occurred in 87% (68/78) of patients with ALL, including ≥ Grade 3 in 35% of patients. The median time to onset for neurologic events was seven days (range: 1 to 51 days) with a median duration of 15 days (range: 1 to 397 days) in patients with ALL. For patients with MCL, 54 (66%) patients experienced CRS before the onset of neurological events. Five (6%) patients did not experience CRS with neurologic events and eight patients (10%) developed neurological events after the resolution of CRS. Neurologic events resolved for 119 out of 134 (89%) patients treated with TECARTUS. Nine patients (three patients with MCL and six patients with ALL) had ongoing neurologic events at the time of death. For patients with ALL, neurologic events occurred before, during, and after CRS in 4 (5%), 57 (73%), and 8 (10%) of patients; respectively. Three patients (4%) had neurologic events without CRS. The onset of neurologic events can be concurrent with CRS, following resolution of CRS or in the absence of CRS.

The incidence of neurologic events (first occurrence) within the first seven days after TECARTUS infusion was 56% (46/82) in patients with MCL and 55% (43/78) in patients with ALL. In all patients combined (MCL/ALL) the incidence of neurologic events (first occurrence) within the first seven days after TECARTUS infusion was 56% (89/160). Ninety-one percent of all treated patients experienced the first CRS or neurological event within the first seven days after TECARTUS infusion.

The most common neurologic events (>10%) were similar in MCL and ALL and included encephalopathy (57%), headache (37%), tremor (34%), confusional state (26%), aphasia (23%), delirium (17%), dizziness (15%), anxiety (14%), and agitation (12%). Serious events (≥ 2%) including encephalopathy, aphasia, confusional state, and seizures occurred after treatment with TECARTUS.

Monitor patients daily for at least seven days for patients with MCL and at least 14 days for patients with ALL at the certified healthcare facility following infusion for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicities. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities for four weeks after infusion and treat promptly [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

5.3 YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program

Because of the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, TECARTUS is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1 and 5.2)]. The required components of the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program are:

  • Healthcare facilities that dispense and administer TECARTUS must be enrolled and comply with the REMS requirements. Certified healthcare facilities must have on-site, immediate access to tocilizumab, and ensure that a minimum of two doses of tocilizumab are available for each patient for infusion within two hours after TECARTUS infusion, if needed for treatment of CRS.
  • Certified healthcare facilities must ensure that healthcare providers who prescribe, dispense, or administer TECARTUS are trained in the management of CRS and neurologic toxicities.

Further information is available at www.YescartaTecartusREMS.com or 1-844-454-KITE (5483).

5.4 Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (HLH/MAS), including life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with TECARTUS. HLH/MAS occurred in 4% (3/78) of patients with ALL. Two patients experienced Grade 3 events and 1 patient experienced a Grade 4 event. The median time to onset for HLH/MAS was 8 days (range: 6 to 9 days) with a median duration of 5 days (range: 2 to 8 days).

All three patients with HLH/MAS had concurrent CRS symptoms and neurologic events after TECARTUS infusion. Treatment of HLH/MAS should be administered per institutional standards.

5.5 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or residual gentamicin in TECARTUS.

5.6 Severe Infections

Severe or life-threatening infections occurred in patients after TECARTUS infusion. Infections (all grades) occurred in 56% (46/82) of patients with MCL and 44% (34/78) of patients with ALL. Grade 3 or higher infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, occurred in 30% of patients with ALL and MCL. TECARTUS should not be administered to patients with clinically significant active systemic infections. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after TECARTUS infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to local guidelines.

Febrile neutropenia was observed in 6% of patients with MCL and 35% of patients with ALL after TECARTUS infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. The febrile neutropenia in 27 (35%) of patients with ALL includes events of "febrile neutropenia" (11 (14%)) plus the concurrent events of "fever" and "neutropenia" (16 (21%)). In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

In immunosuppressed patients, life-threatening and fatal opportunistic infections have been reported. The possibility of rare infectious etiologies (e.g., fungal and viral infections such as HHV-6 and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy) should be considered in patients with neurologic events and appropriate diagnostic evaluations should be performed.

Hepatitis B Reactivation

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against B cells. Perform screening for HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing.

5.7 Prolonged Cytopenias

Patients may exhibit cytopenias for several weeks following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and TECARTUS infusion. In patients with MCL, Grade 3 or higher cytopenias not resolved by Day 30 following TECARTUS infusion occurred in 55% (45/82) of patients and included thrombocytopenia (38%), neutropenia (37%), and anemia (17%). In patients with ALL who were responders to TECARTUS treatment, Grade 3 or higher cytopenias not resolved by Day 30 following TECARTUS infusion occurred in 20% (7/35) of the patients and included neutropenia (12%) and thrombocytopenia (12%); Grade 3 or higher cytopenias not resolved by Day 60 following TECARTUS infusion occurred in 11% (4/35) of the patients and included neutropenia (9%) and thrombocytopenia (6%). Monitor blood counts after TECARTUS infusion.

5.8 Hypogammaglobulinemia

B cell aplasia and hypogammaglobulinemia can occur in patients receiving treatment with TECARTUS. Hypogammaglobulinemia was reported in 16% (13/82) of patients with MCL and 9% (7/78) of patients with ALL. Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with TECARTUS and manage using infection precautions, antibiotic prophylaxis, and immunoglobulin replacement.

The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or following TECARTUS treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least six weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during TECARTUS treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with TECARTUS.

5.9 Secondary Malignancies

Patients treated with TECARTUS may develop secondary malignancies. Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) to obtain instructions on patient samples to collect for testing.

5.10 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients receiving TECARTUS are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the eight weeks following TECARTUS infusion. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

6. Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
  • Neurologic Toxicities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
  • Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
  • Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
  • Severe Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
  • Prolonged Cytopenias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
  • Hypogammaglobulinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL)

The safety of TECARTUS was evaluated in a Phase 2 single-arm clinical study (ZUMA-2) in which a total of 82 patients with relapsed/refractory MCL received a single dose of CAR-positive viable T cells (2 × 106 or 0.5 × 106 anti-CD19 CAR T cells/kg) that was weight-based [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) were fever, CRS, hypotension, encephalopathy, fatigue, tachycardia, arrhythmia, infection with pathogen unspecified, chills, hypoxia, cough, tremor, musculoskeletal pain, headache, nausea, edema, motor dysfunction, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, dyspnea, rash, insomnia, pleural effusion, and aphasia. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 66% of patients. The most common serious adverse reactions (> 2%) were encephalopathy, fever, infection with pathogen unspecified, CRS, hypoxia, aphasia, renal insufficiency, pleural effusion, respiratory failure, bacterial infections, dyspnea, fatigue, arrhythmia, tachycardia, and viral infections.

The most common (≥ 10%) Grade 3 or higher reactions were anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, hypotension, hypophosphatemia, encephalopathy, leukopenia, hypoxia, fever, hyponatremia, hypertension, infection with pathogen unspecified, pneumonia, hypocalcemia, and lymphopenia.

Table 3 summarizes the adverse reactions that occurred in at least 10% of patients treated with TECARTUS and Table 4 describes the laboratory abnormalities of Grade 3 or 4 that occurred in at least 10% of patients.

Table 3. Summary of Adverse Reactions Observed in at Least 10% of Patients Treated with TECARTUS in ZUMA-2 (N=82)
Adverse ReactionAny Grade (%)Grade 3 or Higher (%)
*
Coagulopathy includes coagulopathy, disseminated intravascular coagulation, international normalized ratio increased.
†
Tachycardias includes tachycardia, sinus tachycardia.
‡
Bradycardias includes bradycardia, sinus bradycardia.
§
Non-ventricular arrhythmias includes atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, cardiac flutter, palpitations, supraventricular tachycardia.
Abdominal pain includes abdominal pain, abdominal pain lower, abdominal pain upper, abdominal tenderness.
#
Oral pain includes oral pain, gingival pain, lip pain, oral mucosal erythema, oropharyngeal pain.
Þ
Vomiting includes vomiting, retching.
ß
Fatigue includes fatigue, lethargy, malaise.
à
Edema includes eyelid edema, face edema, generalized edema, localised edema, edema, edema peripheral, periorbital edema, peripheral swelling, scrotal edema, swelling face.
è
Pain includes pain, allodynia, dysaesthesia, ear pain, facial pain, non-cardiac chest pain.
ð
Hypogammaglobulinemia includes hypogammaglobulinemia, blood immunoglobulin G decreased.
ø
Musculoskeletal pain includes musculoskeletal pain, arthralgia, back pain, bone pain, dysarthria, flank pain, groin pain, myalgia, neck pain, pain in extremity.
ý
Motor dysfunction includes asthenia, intensive care acquired weakness, mobility decreased, muscle twitching, muscular weakness, myopathy.
£
Encephalopathy includes encephalopathy, altered state of consciousness, amnesia, balance disorder, cognitive disorder, confusional state, disturbance in attention, dysgraphia, dyskinesia, memory impairment, mental status changes, neurotoxicity, somnolence.
¥
Headache includes headache, migraine.
Œ
Aphasia includes aphasia, communication disorder.
œ
Dizziness includes dizziness, presyncope, syncope.
Ɖ
Neuropathy includes hyperaesthesia, neuropathy peripheral, paraesthesia, paraesthesia oral.
A
Delirium includes delirium, agitation, disorientation, hallucination, hypomania, irritability, nervousness, personality change.
B
Renal insufficiency includes acute kidney injury, blood creatinine increased.
C
Urine output decreased includes urine output decreased, urinary retention.
D
Cough includes cough, upper-airway cough syndrome.
E
Dyspnea includes dyspnea, dyspnea exertional.
F
Rash includes rash, erythema, rash erythematous, rash maculo-papular, rash pustular.
G
Hypotension includes hypotension, orthostatic hypotension.
H
Thrombosis includes thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis, embolism, pulmonary embolism.
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
Coagulopathy *102
Cardiac Disorders
Tachycardias †450
Bradycardias ‡100
Non-ventricular Arrhythmias §104
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Nausea351
Constipation290
Diarrhea285
Abdominal pain ¶170
Oral pain #160
Vomiting Þ130
Dysphagia102
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
Fever9415
Fatigue ß481
Chills410
Edema à352
Pain è172
Immune System Disorders
Cytokine release syndrome9118
Hypogammaglobulinemia ð161
Infections and Infestations
Infection with pathogen unspecified4324
Viral infections184
Bacterial infections136
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
Decreased appetite260
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
Musculoskeletal pain ø372
Motor dysfunction ý174
Nervous System Disorders
Encephalopathy £5124
Tremor382
Headache ¥351
Aphasia Œ207
Dizziness œ186
Neuropathy Ɖ132
Psychiatric Disorders
Insomnia210
Delirium A185
Anxiety160
Renal and Urinary Disorders
Renal insufficiency B189
Urine output decreased C111
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders
Hypoxia4020
Cough D380
Dyspnea E246
Pleural effusion215
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Rash F224
Vascular Disorders
Hypotension G5727
Hypertension1811
Thrombosis H174

Other clinically important adverse reactions that occurred in less than 10% of patients treated with TECARTUS include the following:

  • Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth (7%)
  • Infections and infestations disorders: fungal infections (9%)
  • Metabolism and nutrition disorders: dehydration (6%)
  • Nervous system disorders: ataxia (7%), seizure (5%), increased intracranial pressure (2%)
  • Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: respiratory failure (6%), pulmonary edema (4%)
  • Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: rash (9%)
  • Vascular disorders: hemorrhage (7%)
Table 4. Grade 3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients in ZUMA-2 Following TECARTUS Infusion (N = 82)
Grades 3 or 4 (%)
Leukopenia95
Neutropenia95
Lymphopenia86
Thrombocytopenia63
Anemia55
Hypophosphatemia30
Hypocalcemia21
Blood uric acid increased17
Hyponatremia16
Aspartate Aminotransferase increased15
Alanine Aminotransferase increased15
Hypokalemia10

Patients with Relapsed/Refractory B-cell precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

The safety of TECARTUS was evaluated in a Phase 1/2 open-label, multicenter study (ZUMA-3) in which a total of 78 patients with relapsed/refractory ALL received a single dose of CAR-positive T cells (1 × 106 anti-CD19 CAR T cells/kg) that was weight-based [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

The most common non-laboratory adverse reactions (≥ 20%) were fever, cytokine release syndrome, hypotension, encephalopathy, tachycardia, nausea, chills, headache, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, diarrhea, musculoskeletal pain, hypoxia, rash, edema, tremor, infection with pathogen unspecified, constipation, decreased appetite, and vomiting. The most common serious adverse reactions (≥ 2%) were cytokine release syndrome, febrile neutropenia, hypotension, encephalopathy, fever, infection with pathogen unspecified, hypoxia, tachycardia, bacterial infections, respiratory failure, seizure, diarrhea, dyspnea, fungal infections, viral infections, coagulopathy, delirium, fatigue, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, musculoskeletal pain, edema, and paraparesis.

The most common (≥ 10%) Grade 3 or 4 reactions were fever, febrile neutropenia, hypotension, encephalopathy, cytokine release syndrome, hypoxia, and infection with pathogen unspecified. Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 5% (4/78) of patients including cerebral edema, sepsis, and fungal pneumonia. Of the 4 patients who had fatal adverse reactions: one patient with fatal pneumonia had pre-existing pneumonia prior to study enrollment, and one patient with fatal sepsis had prolonged cytopenia and immunosuppression from prior therapies and underlying disease.

Table 5 summarizes the adverse reactions (excluding laboratory abnormalities) that occurred in at least 10% of patients treated with TECARTUS and Table 6 describes the laboratory abnormalities of Grade 3 or 4 that occurred in at least 10% of patients.

Table 5. Summary of Adverse Reactions Observed in at Least 10% of Patients Treated with TECARTUS in ZUMA-3 (N=78)
Adverse ReactionAny Grade (%)Grade 3 or Higher (%)
*
Febrile neutropenia includes febrile neutropenia (11 (14%)) and fever occurring concurrently with neutropenia events (16 (21%)).
†
Coagulopathy includes blood fibrinogen decreased, coagulopathy, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hypofibrinogenemia, international normalized ratio increased.
‡
Tachycardias includes sinus tachycardia, tachycardia.
§
Arrhythmia includes arrhythmia, arrhythmia supraventricular, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia,bradycardia, cardiac arrest, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, electrocardiogram T wave inversion, pulseless electrical activity, sinus bradycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia.
Abdominal pain includes abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper.
#
Edema includes face edema, fluid overload, generalized edema, edema, edema peripheral, swelling face, tongue edema.
Þ
Fatigue includes asthenia, cancer fatigue, fatigue, malaise.
ß
Infection with pathogen unspecified includes, catheter bacteremia, conjunctivitis, device related infection, mucosal infection, nasopharyngitis, parotitis, pneumonia, sepsis, septic shock, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection.
à
Bacterial infections includes bacteremia, bacterial disease carrier, cellulitis, cellulitis of male external genital organ, clostridial infection, clostridium difficile colitis, clostridium difficile infection, enterococcal bacteremia, enterococcal infection, escherichia bacteremia, escherichia infection, escherichia sepsis, pseudomonas infection, staphylococcal bacteremia, staphylococcal infection, wound infection staphylococcal.
è
Fungal infections includes bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, candida infection, fungal skin infection, mycotic oral candidiasis, osteomyelitis fungal, pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, pneumonia fungal, sinusitis fungal.
ð
Musculoskeletal pain includes arthralgia, back pain, bone pain, coccydynia, muscle strain, musculoskeletal chest pain, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, neck pain, non-cardiac chest pain, pain in extremity.
ø
Encephalopathy includes altered state of consciousness, aphasia, cognitive disorder, confusional state, depressed level of consciousness, disturbance in attention, dysarthria, dysgraphia, encephalopathy, immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome, memory impairment, mental status changes, slow response to stimuli, slow speech, somnolence, speech disorder.
ý
Dizziness includes dizziness, syncope.
£
Delirium includes agitation, delirium, delusion, disorientation, hallucination.
¥
Cough includes cough, productive cough.
Œ
Rash includes catheter site urticaria, dermatitis bullous, drug eruption, pruritus, rash, rash macular, rash maculo-papular, rash pustular, toxic skin eruption, urticaria.
œ
Hypotension includes hypotension, orthostatic hypotension.
Ɖ
Hemorrhage includes conjunctival hemorrhage, contusion, epistaxis, gastric hemorrhage,hematoma, hematoma muscle, hemorrhage intracranial, hemorrhoidal hemorrhage, menorrhagia, petechiae, pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage, retinal hemorrhage, vaginal hemorrhage, vitreous hemorrhage.
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
Febrile Neutropenia*3535
Coagulopathy†175
Cardiac Disorders
Tachycardias‡636
Arrhythmia§151
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Nausea411
Diarrhea326
Abdominal pain¶190
Constipation240
Vomiting213
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
Fever9638
Chills400
Edema#295
FatigueÞ371
Pain131
Immune System Disorders
Cytokine release syndrome9226
Infections and Infestations
Infection with pathogen unspecifiedß2822
Bacterial infectionsà158
Fungal infectionsè135
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
Decreased appetite221
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
Musculoskeletal painð325
Muscular weakness141
Nervous System Disorders
Encephalopathyø6327
Headache381
Tremor291
Dizzinessý131
Psychiatric Disorders
Delirium£185
Anxiety120
Insomnia130
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders
Hypoxia3123
Cough¥120
Dyspnea121
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
RashŒ310
Vascular Disorders
Hypotensionœ6933
HemorrhageƉ134
Hypertension136

Other clinically important adverse reactions that occurred in less than 10% of patients treated with TECARTUS include the following:

  • Cardiac disorder: cardiac failure (4%), palpitations (3%)
  • Eye disorders: visual impairment (9%)
  • Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth (6%), dysphagia (4%), oral pain (1%)
  • Immune system disorders: hypogammaglobulinemia (9%), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (4%), drug hypersensitivity (1%)
  • Infections and infestations: viral infections (6%)
  • Metabolism and nutrition disorders: dehydration (5%), tumor lysis syndrome (1%)
  • Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: muscle spasms (4%), musculoskeletal stiffness (3%)
  • Nervous system disorders: seizure (8%), ataxia (5%), peripheral neuropathy (4%), myoclonus (3%), paraparesis (3%), brain edema (1%), brain herniation (1%), cauda equina syndrome (1%), monoplegia (1%)
  • Renal and urinary disorders: renal impairment (6%)
  • Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: respiratory failure (9%), pulmonary edema (6%), pleural effusion (4%), pneumonitis (4%)
  • Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: skin lesion (4%), decubitus ulcer (3%), dry skin (3%), skin ulcer (3%), alopecia (1%), hyperhidrosis (1%), skin hyperpigmentation (1%)
  • Vascular disorders: thrombosis (4%)
Table 6. Grade 3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients in ZUMA-3 Following TECARTUS Infusion (N = 78)
Grades 3 or 4 (%)
Leukopenia99
Neutropenia97
Lymphopenia96
Thrombocytopenia87
Anemia77
Hypophosphatemia47
Alanine aminotransferase increased31
Aspartate aminotransferase increased23
Hyperglycemia22
Hypocalcemia22
Blood uric acid increased19
Direct bilirubin increased19
Hyponatremia19
Hypokalemia13
Hyperbilirubinemia10

8. Use In Specific Populations

11. Tecartus Description

TECARTUS (brexucabtagene autoleucel) is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy. To prepare TECARTUS, a patient's own T cells are harvested and genetically modified ex vivo by retroviral transduction to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising a murine anti-CD19 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) linked to CD28 and CD3-zeta co-stimulatory domains. The anti-CD19 CAR T cells are expanded and infused back into the patient, where they can recognize and eliminate CD19-expressing target cells.

TECARTUS is prepared from the patient's peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which are obtained via a standard leukapheresis procedure. The mononuclear cells are enriched for T cells and activated with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies in the presence of IL-2, then transduced with a replication-incompetent retroviral vector containing the anti-CD19 CAR transgene. The transduced T cells are expanded in cell culture, washed, formulated into a suspension, and cryopreserved. The manufacture of TECARTUS includes a T cell enrichment step that may reduce the likelihood of circulating CD19-expressing tumor cells in patients' leukapheresis material driving the activation, expansion, and exhaustion of the anti-CD19 CAR T cells during the ex vivo manufacturing process. The product must pass a sterility test before release for shipping as a frozen suspension in a patient-specific infusion bag. The product is thawed prior to infusion [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].

In addition to T cells, TECARTUS may contain natural killer (NK) cells. The formulation contains CryoStor (dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], final concentration, 5%), sodium chloride (NaCl), and Human Serum Albumin (HSA).

12. Tecartus - Clinical Pharmacology

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Following infusion (target dose of 2 × 106 anti-CD19 CAR T cells/kg) of TECARTUS in ZUMA-2, anti-CD19 CAR T cells exhibited an initial rapid expansion followed by a decline to near baseline levels by three months. Peak levels of anti-CD19 CAR T cells occurred within the first 15 days after TECARTUS infusion. Following infusion (target dose of 1 × 106 anti-CD19 CAR T cells/kg) of TECARTUS in ZUMA-3 (Phase 2), anti-CD19 CAR T cells exhibited an initial rapid expansion followed by a decline to near baseline levels by 6 months. Median anti- CD19 CAR T-cell time to peak was 15 days after TECARTUS infusion.

Description of Pharmacokinetics in Adult r/r MCL

The number of anti-CD19 CAR T cells in blood was associated with objective response [complete remission (CR) or partial remission (PR)]. Median peak anti-CD19 CAR T cell level in responders was 102.4 cells/µL (range: 0.2 to 2589.5 cells/µL; n = 51), and in nonresponders was 12.0 cells/µL (range: 0.2 to 1364.0 cells/µL, n = 8). The median AUCDay 0–28 in patients with an objective response was 1487.0 cells/µL∙days (range: 3.8 to 2.77E+04 cells/µL∙days; n = 51) versus 169.5 cells/µL∙days in nonresponders (range: 1.8 to 1.17E+04 cells/µL∙days; n = 8).

Median peak anti-CD19 CAR T-cell and AUC0–28 levels in patients who received neither corticosteroids nor tocilizumab (peak: 24.7 cells/µL; AUC0–28: 360.4 cells/µL∙days, n = 18) was similar to patients who received corticosteroids alone (peak: 24.2 cells/µL; AUC0–28: 367.8 cells/µL∙days, n = 2); both groups were lower than patients who received tocilizumab alone (peak: 86.5 cells/µL; AUC0–28: 1188.9 cells/µL∙days, n = 10); the highest exposure was in patients who received both corticosteroids and tocilizumab (peak: 167.2 cells/µL; AUC0–28: 1996.0 cells/µL∙days, n = 37).

Median peak anti-CD19 CAR T-cell values were 74.1 cells/µL in patients ≥ 65 years of age (n = 39) and 112.5 cells/µL in patients < 65 years of age (n = 28). Median anti-CD19 CAR T-cell AUC Day 0–28 values were 876.5 cells/µL∙day in patients ≥ 65 years of age and 1640.2 cells/µL∙day in patients < 65 years of age.

Gender had no significant impact on AUCDay 0–28 and Cmax of TECARTUS.

Description of Pharmacokinetics in Adult r/r B-cell precursor ALL

Median peak anti-CD19 CAR T-cell levels over time by best overall response per independent review was 38.4 cells/µL (range: 1.31 to 1,533.4 cells/µL; n = 32) in patients who had overall complete remission (CR+CRi), and 0.5 cells/µL (range: 0.00 to 183.5 cells/µL, n = 17) in patients who had non-complete remission. The median AUC0–28 in patients who had overall complete remission (CR+CRi) was 424.0 cells/µL∙days (range: 14.12 to 19,390.4 cells/µL∙days; n = 32) vs 7.9 cells/µL∙days in patients who had non-complete remission (range: 0.00 to 889.0 cells/µL∙days; n=17).

Median peak anti-CD19 CAR T-cell and AUC 0–28 levels in patients who received neither corticosteroids nor tocilizumab (peak 5.7 cells/µL; AUC 0–28: 60.7 cells/µL∙days, n=11) were higher than patients who received corticosteroids alone (peak: 36.2 cells/ µL; AUC 0–28: 423.1 cells/µL∙days, n= 1); both groups were lower than evaluable patients who received tocilizumab alone (peak 11.2 cells/ µL; AUC 0–28: 137.4 cells/µL∙days, n=9); the highest exposure was in evaluable patients who received both corticosteroids and tocilizumab (peak: 49.2 cells/µL; AUC 0–28: 454.1 cells/ µL∙days, n=34).

Hepatic and renal impairment studies of TECARTUS were not conducted.

14. Clinical Studies

14.1 Relapsed or Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma

A single-arm, open-label, multicenter trial (ZUMA-2; NCT02601313) evaluated the efficacy and safety of a single infusion of TECARTUS in adult patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who had previously received anthracycline- or bendamustine-containing chemotherapy, an anti-CD20 antibody, and a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi; ibrutinib or acalabrutinib). Eligible patients also had disease progression after their last regimen or refractory disease to their most recent therapy. The study excluded patients with active or serious infections, prior allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), detectable cerebrospinal fluid malignant cells or brain metastases, and any history of central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma or CNS disorders.

Seventy-four patients were leukapheresed, five (7%) of whom did not begin conditioning chemotherapy or receive TECARTUS: three (4%) experienced manufacturing failure, one (1%) died of progressive disease, and one (1%) withdrew from the study. One patient (1%) received lymphodepleting chemotherapy but did not receive TECARTUS due to ongoing active atrial fibrillation. Sixty-eight of the patients who were leukapheresed received a single infusion of TECARTUS, and 60 of these patients were followed for at least six months after their first objective disease response, qualifying them as efficacy-evaluable. Among the 60 efficacy-evaluable patients, 2 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells/kg were administered to 54 (90%). The remaining six (10%) patients received doses of 1.0, 1.6, 1.8, 1.8, 1.9, and 1.9 × 106 CAR-positive viable T cells/kg.

Of the 60 efficacy-evaluable patients, the median age was 65 years (range: 38 to 79 years), 51 (85%) were male, and 56 (93%) were white. Most (50 patients; 83%) had stage IV disease. Twenty patients (33% of 60) had baseline bone marrow examinations performed per protocol; of these, ten (50%) were negative, eight (40%) were positive, and two (10%) were indeterminate. The median number of prior therapies among all 60 efficacy-evaluable patients was three (range: two to five). Twenty-six (43%) of the patients had relapsed after or were refractory to autologous HSCT. Twenty-one (35%) had relapsed after their last therapy for MCL, while 36 (60%) were refractory to their last therapy for MCL. Among the 60 efficacy-evaluable patients, 14 (23%) had blastoid MCL. Following leukapheresis and prior to administration of TECARTUS, 21 (35%) of the 60 patients received bridging therapy. Sixteen (27%) were treated with a BTKi, 9 (15%) with a corticosteroid, and 4 (7%) with both a BTKi and a corticosteroid.

Among the 60 efficacy-evaluable patients, the median time from leukapheresis to product delivery was 15 days (range: 11 to 28 days), and the median time from leukapheresis to product infusion was 27 days (range: 19 to 63 days). The protocol-defined lymphodepleting chemotherapy regimen of cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 intravenously and fludarabine 30 mg/m2 intravenously, both given on each of the fifth, fourth, and third days before TECARTUS infusion, was administered to 53 (88%) of the 60 efficacy-evaluable patients. The remaining seven patients (12%) either received lymphodepletion over four or more days or received TECARTUS four or more days after completing lymphodepletion. All treated patients received TECARTUS infusion on Day 0 and were hospitalized until at least Day 7.

The primary endpoint of objective response rate (ORR) per the Lugano Classification (2014) in patients treated with TECARTUS as determined by an independent review committee is provided in Table 7. The median time to response was 28 days (range: 24 to 92 days) with a median follow-up time for DOR of 8.6 months.

Table 7 Efficacy Results in Adult Patients with Relapsed/Refractory MCL
Efficacy-Evaluable Patients
N = 60		All Leukapheresed Patients (ITT)
N = 74
CI, confidence interval; CR, complete remission; DOR, duration of response; NE, not estimable; NR, not reached; PR, partial remission.
*
Among all responders. DOR is measured from the date of first objective response to the date of progression or death.
†
A + sign indicates a censored value.
‡
At the time of primary analysis.
Response Rate
Objective Response Rate*, n (%) [95% CI]52 (87%) [75, 94]59 (80%) [69, 88]
Complete Remission Rate, n (%) [95% CI]37 (62%) [48, 74]41 (55%) [43, 67]
Partial Remission Rate, n (%) [95% CI]15 (25%) [15, 38]18 (24%) [15, 36]
Duration of Response (DOR)
Median in months [95% CI]
Range† in months		NR [8.6, NE]
0.0+, 29.2+		NR [8.6, NE]
0.0+, 29.2+
DOR, if best response is CR, median in months [95% CI]
Range† in months		NR [13.6, NE]
1.9+, 29.2+		NR [13.6, NE]
0.0+, 29.2+
DOR, if best response is PR, median in months [95% CI]
Range† in months		2.2 [1.5, 5.1]
0.0+, 22.1+		2.2 [1.5, 5.1]
0.0+, 22.1+
Median Follow-up for DOR in months‡8.68.1

14.2 Relapsed or Refractory B-cell precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The efficacy of TECARTUS was evaluated in ZUMA-3 (NCT02614066), an open-label, single-arm, multicenter trial in adult patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Eligible patients were adults with primary refractory ALL, first relapse following a remission lasting ≤ 12 months, relapsed or refractory ALL after second-line or higher therapy, or relapsed or refractory ALL at least 100 days after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The study excluded patients with active or serious infections, active graft-vs-host disease or taking immunosuppressive medications within 4 weeks prior to enrollment, and any history of CNS disorders, including CNS-2 disease with neurologic changes and CNS-3 disease irrespective of neurological changes. Treatment consisted of lymphodepleting chemotherapy (fludarabine 25 mg/m2 iv daily on Days -4, -3 and -2; cyclophosphamide 900 mg/m2 iv on Day -2) followed by a single intravenous infusion of TECARTUS at a target dose of 1 × 106 anti-CD19 CAR T cells/kg (maximum 1 × 108 cells) on Day 0. All treated patients were hospitalized until at least Day 7.

Seventy-one patients were enrolled and leukapheresed; six of these patients did not receive TECARTUS due to manufacturing failure, eight patients were not treated primarily due to adverse events following leukapheresis, two patients underwent leukapheresis and received lymphodepleting chemotherapy but were not treated with TECARTUS, and one patient treated with TECARTUS was inevaluable for efficacy. Among the remaining 54 efficacy-evaluable patients, the median time from leukapheresis to product delivery was 16 days (range: 11 to 39 days) and the median time from leukapheresis to TECARTUS infusion was 29 days (range: 20 to 60 days).

Of the 54 patients who were efficacy evaluable, the median age was 40 years (range: 19 to 84 years), 61% were male, and 67% were White, 6% were Asian, 2% were Black or African American, and 2% were American Indian or Alaska Native. At enrollment, 46% had refractory relapse, 26% had primary refractory disease, 20% had untreated second or later relapse, and 7% had first untreated relapse. Among prior therapies, 43% of patients were previously treated with allo-SCT, 46% with blinatumomab, and 22% with inotuzumab. Twenty-six percent of patients were Philadelphia chromosome positive (Ph+). Fifty (93%) patients had received bridging therapy between leukapheresis and lymphodepleting chemotherapy to control disease burden.

The efficacy of TECARTUS was established on the basis of complete remission (CR) within 3 months after infusion and the duration of CR (DOCR). Twenty-eight (51.9%) of the 54 evaluable patients achieved CR, and with a median follow-up for responders of 7.1 months, the median DOCR was not reached (Table 8). The median time to CR was 56 days (range: 25 to 86 days). All efficacy evaluable patients had potential follow-up for ≥ 10 months with a median actual follow-up time of 12.3 months (range: 0.3 to 22.1 months).

Table 8: Efficacy Results in Adult Patients with Relapsed/Refractory B-cell precursor ALL
Efficacy Evaluable Patients*
N= 54		All Leukapheresed Patients
N = 71
CI, confidence interval; CR, complete remission; CRi, complete remission with incomplete blood count recovery; DOR, duration of remission; NE, not estimable; NR, not reached, OCR, overall complete remission; NE, not estimable
*
Of the 71 patients that were enrolled (and leukapheresed), 57 patients received lymphodepleting chemotherapy, and 55 patients received TECARTUS. 54 patients were included in the efficacy evaluable population.
†
A + sign indicates a censored value.
OCR rate (CR + CRi), n (%) [95% CI]35 (64.8) [51, 77]36 (50.7) [39, 63]
CR rate, n (%) [95% CI]28 (51.9) [37.8, 65.7]29 (40.9) [29.3, 53.2]
Duration of Remission, Median in months [95% CI]
(Range† in months)		13.6 [9.4, NE]
(0.03+, 16.07+)		13.6 [8.7, NE]
(0.03+, 16.07+)
DOR, if best response is CR, median in months [95% CI]
(Range in months)		NR [9.6, NE]
(0.03+, 16.07+)		13.6 [9.4, NE]
(0.03+, 16.07+)
DOR, if best response is CRi, median in months [95% CI]
(Range in months)		8.7 [1.0, NE]
(0.03+, 10.15+)		8.7 [1.0, NE]
(0.03+, 10.15+)
Median Follow-up for CR in months7.1 (0.03+, 16.1+)5.0 (0.03+, 16.1+)

17. Patient Counseling Information

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

Ensure that patients understand the risk of manufacturing failure (4% in clinical trial). In case of a manufacturing failure, a second manufacturing of TECARTUS may be attempted. In addition, while the patient awaits the product, additional chemotherapy (not the lymphodepletion) may be necessary and may increase the risk of adverse events during the pre-infusion period.

Advise patients to seek immediate attention for any of the following:

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) - Signs or symptoms associated with CRS, including fever, chills, fatigue, tachycardia, nausea, hypoxia, and hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6)].
  • Neurologic Toxicities - Signs or symptoms associated with neurologic events, including encephalopathy, seizures, changes in level of consciousness, speech disorders, tremors, and confusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6)].
  • Severe Infections - Signs or symptoms associated with infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6)].
  • Prolonged Cytopenias - Signs or symptoms associated with bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, or febrile neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Adverse Reactions (6)].

Advise patients of the need to:

  • Refrain from driving or operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery for at least eight weeks after TECARTUS infusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
  • Have periodic monitoring of blood counts.
  • Contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) if they are diagnosed with a secondary malignancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Manufactured by, Packed by, Distributed by:
Kite Pharma, Inc.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
US License No 2064

© 2021 Kite Pharma, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

125703-GS-002

MEDICATION GUIDE
TECARTUS (pronounced tek-ahr-tuhs)
(brexucabtagene autoleucel)
Read this Medication Guide before you start your TECARTUS treatment. The more you know about your treatment, the more active you can be in your care. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your health condition or treatment. Reading this Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about TECARTUS?
TECARTUS may cause side effects that are life-threatening and can lead to death. Call or see your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following:
  • Fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chills or shaking chills
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe fatigue or weakness
It is important to tell your healthcare provider that you received TECARTUS and to show them your TECARTUS Patient Wallet Card. Your healthcare provider may give you other medicines to treat your side effects.
What is TECARTUS?
TECARTUS is a treatment for adults with mantle cell lymphoma or acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is used following disease progression while on or after other treatment. TECARTUS is different than other cancer medicines because it is made from your own white blood cells, which have been modified to recognize and attack your lymphoma cells.
Before getting TECARTUS, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical problems, including if you have or have had:
  • Neurologic problems (such as seizures, stroke, or memory loss)
  • Lung or breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems
  • A recent or active infection
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
How will I receive TECARTUS?
  • Since TECARTUS is made from your own white blood cells, your blood will be collected by a process called "leukapheresis" (loo-kah-fur-ee-sis), which will concentrate your white blood cells.
  • Your blood cells will be sent to a manufacturing center to make your TECARTUS.
  • Before you get TECARTUS, you will get three days of chemotherapy to prepare your body.
  • When your TECARTUS is ready, your healthcare provider will give it to you through a catheter placed into your vein (intravenous infusion). The infusion usually takes less than 30 minutes.
  • You will be monitored where you received your treatment daily for at least seven days for patients with MCL and at least 14 days for patients with ALL after the infusion.
  • You should plan to stay close to the location where you received your treatment for at least four weeks after getting TECARTUS. Your healthcare provider will help you with any side effects that may occur.
  • You may be hospitalized for side effects. Your healthcare provider will discharge you if your side effects are under control and it is safe for you to leave the hospital.
  • Your healthcare provider will want to do blood tests to follow your progress. It is important that you do have your blood tested. If you miss an appointment, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule.
What should I avoid after receiving TECARTUS?
  • Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous things for eight weeks after you get TECARTUS because the treatment can cause sleepiness, confusion, weakness, and temporary memory and coordination problems.
  • Do not donate blood, organs, tissues, or cells for transplantation.
What are the possible or reasonably likely side effects of TECARTUS?
The most common side effects of TECARTUS include:
  • Fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher)
  • Low white blood cells (can occur with a fever)
  • Low red blood cells
  • Low blood pressure (dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, feeling tired, short of breath)
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
These are not all the possible side effects of TECARTUS. Call your healthcare provider about any side effects that concern you. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
General information about the safe and effective use of TECARTUS
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. If you would like more information about TECARTUS, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider for information about TECARTUS that is written for health professionals. You can get additional information by contacting Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) or at www.Tecartus.com.
What are the ingredients in TECARTUS?
Active ingredients: brexucabtagene autoleucel.
Inactive ingredients: albumin (human); DMSO.

TECARTUS is a trademark of Kite Pharma, Inc. All other trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

© 2021 Kite Pharma, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Product

NDC 71287-219-02

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Rx ONLY
FOR AUTOLOGOUS & INTRAVENOUS USE ONLY
No U.S. standard of potency

Dose: One sterile bag for infusion.

Contents: Maximum of 2 x 108 autologous anti-CD19 CAR T cells in
approximately 68 mL suspension containing 5% DMSO USP.

Gently mix the contents of
the bag while thawing

See package insert for full
prescribing information and
instructions for administration

Ship and store in vapor phase
of liquid nitrogen ≤ -150°C

DO NOT USE A
LEUKODEPLETING FILTER

DO NOT IRRADIATE

Manufactured with gentamicin

Not evaluated for infectious
substances

Preservative free

Manufacturer: Kite Pharma, Inc., 2400 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: 1-844-454-KITE U.S. Lic. #2064

AS-02682

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Product

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Patient

VERIFY
PATIENT ID

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Lot: 123456789-0X

Kite Patient ID: 987654321

Expiration Date: YYYY-Mmm-DD

First Name M.I.: FIRST NAME W

Last Name: LAST NAME

DOB: YYYY-Mmm-DD

Hospital Patient ID: 1234567890123456

DIN:

W0123 45 678900
00
9

AS-02442

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Patient

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Patient

STOP
Confirm patient
ID prior to
infusion

VERIFY
PATIENT ID

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Lot: 123456789-0X

Kite Patient ID: 987654321

Expiration Date: YYYY-Mmm-DD

First Name M.I.: FIRST NAME W

Last Name: LAST NAME

DOB: YYYY-Mmm-DD

Hospital Patient ID: 1234567890123456

DIN:

W0123 45 678900
00
9

AS-02444

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Patient

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL LN2 Label

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Kite Pharma, Inc.
Site: FXX

Cell Order: 123456789

LOT: 123456789-01

2400 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
XXX-XXX-XXXX

AS-02447

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL LN2 Label

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Product - AS-02535

NDC 71287-220-01

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Rx ONLY
FOR AUTOLOGOUS & INTRAVENOUS USE ONLY
No U.S. standard of potency

Dose: One sterile bag for infusion.

Contents: Maximum of 1 x 108 autologous anti-CD19 CAR T cells in
approximately 68 mL suspension containing 5% DMSO USP.

Gently mix the contents of
the bag while thawing

See package insert for full
prescribing information and
instructions for administration

Ship and store in vapor phase
of liquid nitrogen ≤ -150°C

DO NOT USE A
LEUKODEPLETING FILTER

DO NOT IRRADIATE

Manufactured with gentamicin

Not evaluated for infectious
substances

Preservative free

Manufacturer: Kite Pharma, Inc., 2400 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: 1-844-454-KITE U.S. Lic. #2064

AS-02535

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Product - AS-02535

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Product - AS-02533

NDC 71287-220-02

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Rx ONLY
FOR AUTOLOGOUS & INTRAVENOUS USE ONLY
No U.S. standard of potency

Dose: One sterile bag for infusion.

Contents: Maximum of 1 x 108 autologous anti-CD19 CAR T cells in
approximately 68 mL suspension containing 5% DMSO USP.

Gently mix the contents of
the bag while thawing

See package insert for full
prescribing information and
instructions for administration

Ship and store in vapor phase
of liquid nitrogen ≤ -150°C

DO NOT USE A
LEUKODEPLETING FILTER

DO NOT IRRADIATE

Manufactured with gentamicin

Not evaluated for infectious
substances

Preservative free

Manufacturer: Kite Pharma, Inc., 2400 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: 1-844-454-KITE U.S. Lic. #2064

AS-02533

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Product - AS-02533

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Patient - AS-02532

VERIFY
PATIENT ID

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Lot: 123456789-0X

Kite Patient ID: 987654321

Expiration Date: YYYY-Mmm-DD

First Name M.I.: FIRST NAME W

Last Name: LAST NAME

DOB: YYYY-Mmm-DD

Hospital Patient ID: 1234567890123456

DIN:

W0123 45 678900
00
9

AS-02532

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Bag Label - Patient - AS-02532

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Patient - AS-02534

STOP
Confirm patient
ID prior to
infusion

VERIFY
PATIENT ID

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Lot: 123456789-0X

Kite Patient ID: 987654321

Expiration Date: YYYY-Mmm-DD

First Name M.I.: FIRST NAME W

Last Name: LAST NAME

DOB: YYYY-Mmm-DD

Hospital Patient ID: 1234567890123456

DIN:

W0123 45 678900
00
9

AS-02534

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL Cassette Label - Patient - AS-02534

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL LN2 Label - AS-02536

brexucabtagene autoleucel
TECARTUS®

Kite Pharma, Inc.
Site: FXX

Cell Order: 123456789

LOT: 123456789-01

2400 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404
XXX-XXX-XXXX

AS-02536

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 68 mL LN2 Label - AS-02536
TECARTUS
brexucabtagene autoleucel suspension
Product Information
Product TypeCELLULAR THERAPYItem Code (Source)NDC:71287-219
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUS
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL (UNII: 4MD2J2T8SJ) (BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL - UNII:4MD2J2T8SJ) BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL2000000 in 68 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE (UNII: YOW8V9698H)
ALBUMIN HUMAN (UNII: ZIF514RVZR)
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
1NDC:71287-219-021 in 1 PACKAGE
1NDC:71287-219-0168 mL in 1 BAG; Type 1: Convenience Kit of Co-Package
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
BLABLA12570307/24/2020
TECARTUS
brexucabtagene autoleucel suspension
Product Information
Product TypeCELLULAR THERAPYItem Code (Source)NDC:71287-220
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUS
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL (UNII: 4MD2J2T8SJ) (BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL - UNII:4MD2J2T8SJ) BREXUCABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL1000000 in 68 mL
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE (UNII: YOW8V9698H)
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
1NDC:71287-220-021 in 1 PACKAGE
1NDC:71287-220-0168 mL in 1 BAG; Type 1: Convenience Kit of Co-Package
Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
BLABLA12570310/01/2021
Labeler - Kite Pharma, Inc. (963353359)
Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
Kite Pharma, Inc.963353359MANUFACTURE(71287-219, 71287-220) , LABEL(71287-219, 71287-220)
Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
Kite Pharma, Inc.116931311ANALYSIS(71287-219, 71287-220)

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