Consumer medicine information

Lonsurf

Trifluridine; Tipiracil

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Lonsurf

Active ingredient

Trifluridine; Tipiracil

Schedule

S4

 

Consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflet

Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using Lonsurf.

SUMMARY CMI

LONSURF®

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) summary

The full CMI on the next page has more details. If you are worried about using this medicine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

1. Why am I using LONSURF?

LONSURF is a medicine used to treat cancer by slowing down the growth and spread of cancer cells. LONSURF contains two different active substances trifluridine and tipiracil. Trifluridine stops the growth of cancer cells. Tipiracil stops the trifluridine from being broken down by the body, helping trifluridine to work longer.

For more information, see Section 1. Why am I using LONSURF? in the full CMI.

2. What should I know before I use LONSURF?

Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to LONSURF or any of the ingredients listed at the end of the CMI.

Talk to your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take any other medicines, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

For more information, see Section 2. What should I know before I use LONSURF? in the full CMI.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Some medicines may interfere with LONSURF and affect how it works.
A list of these medicines is in Section 3. What if I am taking other medicines? in the full CMI.

4. How do I use LONSURF?

Your doctor will usually prescribe LONSURF for 10 days during the first two weeks and then stop for two weeks.
This two week on, two weeks off treatment period is one 'cycle' of treatment.
You will then begin another treatment cycle following the above pattern.
The specific dosing schedule is outlined in the full CMI.

More instructions can be found in Section 4. How do I use LONSURF? in the full CMI.

5. What should I know while using LONSURF?

Things you should do
  • Remind any doctor, dentist, nurse or pharmacist you visit that you are using LONSURF.
  • Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment with LONSURF, or plan to become pregnant.
  • Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding while being treated with LONSURF.
  • If you are about to have any blood tests, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. It may interfere with the results of some tests.
Things you should not do
  • Do not take LONSURF to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Do not stop taking LONSURF, or lower the dosage, even if you are feeling better, without checking with your doctor.
Driving or using machines
  • Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how LONSURF affects you. Speak with your doctor about when you can resume these activities.
Looking after your medicine
  • Store in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
  • Keep your tablets in the pack until it is time to take them.

For more information, see Section 5. What should I know while using LONSURF? in the full CMI.

6. Are there any side effects?

Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking LONSURF. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not.

If you experience neutropenia, anaemia, vomiting and diarrhoea, thrombocytopenia, febrile neutropenia or abdominal pain after taking LONSURF, please seek urgent medical attention.

For more information, including what to do if you have any side effects, see Section 6. Are there any side effects? in the full CMI.



FULL CMI

LONSURF®

Active ingredient(s): trifluridine and tipiracil

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

This leaflet provides important information about using LONSURF. You should also speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you would like further information or if you have any concerns or questions about using LONSURF.

Where to find information in this leaflet:

1. Why am I using LONSURF?
2. What should I know before I use LONSURF?
3. What if I am taking other medicines?
4. How do I use LONSURF?
5. What should I know while using LONSURF?
6. Are there any side effects?
7. Product details

1. Why am I using LONSURF?

LONSURF contains the active substances trifluridine and tipiracil.

  • Trifluridine stops the growth of cancer cells.
  • Tipiracil stops the trifluridine from being broken down by the body, helping trifluridine to work longer.

LONSURF is used to treat cancer by slowing down the growth and spread of cancer cells.

LONSURF is a type of cancer chemotherapy which belongs to a group of medicines called 'cytostatic antimetabolite medicines'.

LONSURF is used to treat adults with colon or rectal cancer - sometimes called 'colorectal' cancer. It is also used to treat gastric cancer - sometimes called 'stomach' cancer.

It is used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

It is used when other treatments have not worked - or when other treatments are not suitable for you.

2. What should I know before I use LONSURF?

Warnings

Do not use LONSURF if:

  • you are allergic to tipiracil and/or trifluridine, or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
  • Always check the ingredients to make sure you can use this medicine.
  • Do not take LONSURF after the expiry date printed on the pack.
  • Do not take LONSURF if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.

Check with your doctor if you:

  • have any other medical conditions especially the following:
    - kidney problems
    LONSURF is not recommended in some patients with kidney problems. Before you start each treatment cycle of LONSURF, your doctor will perform blood tests to monitor your kidneys to see how they are working.
    - liver problems.
    LONSURF is not recommended in some patients with liver problems. Before you start each treatment cycle of LONSURF, your doctor will perform blood tests to monitor your liver to see how your liver is working. Treatment with LONSURF may lead to a higher risk of liver problems.
  • take any medicines for any other condition.
  • LONSURF contains lactose.
  • If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.

During treatment, you may be at risk of developing certain side effects. It is important you understand these risks and how to monitor for them. See additional information under Section 6. Are there any side effects?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed.

Pregnancy

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.

Like most anti-cancer medicines, LONSURF is not recommended for use during pregnancy. However, if you need to take LONSURF during your pregnancy, your doctor will discuss with you the benefits and risks of taking it.

You must not become pregnant while taking LONSURF, as this medicine may harm your unborn baby.

Contraception

You and your partner should use effective methods of contraception while taking this medicine. You should also do this for 6 months after you stop taking the medicine. If you or your partner becomes pregnant during this time, you must talk to your doctor or pharmacist straight away.

Breastfeeding

Do not breast-feed while taking LONSURF.

Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed. This medicine may interfere with the growth and development of your baby.

Fertility

LONSURF may reduce fertility in both men and women. Your doctor will advise you of your options prior to starting treatment.

Children and adolescents

LONSURF is not recommended for use in children and adolescents. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including any medicines, vitamins or supplements that you buy without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

LONSURF and other medicines may interact. These include medicines used for treatment of HIV, such as zidovudine. Zidovudine may not work as well if you are taking LONSURF.

You may need different amounts of your medicine, or you may need to take different medicines. Your doctor will advise you.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure about what medicines, vitamins or supplements you are taking and if these affect LONSURF.

4. How do I use LONSURF?

Always take LONSURF exactly as your doctor has told you to.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor or pharmacist carefully. They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.

If you do not understand the instructions on the box, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help.

MyLonsurf Dosing Calendar

The MyLonsurf dosing calendar has been created to help you understand your dose and treatment cycle. The MyLonsurf dosing calendar also contains important information on how many tablets of each strength you need to take for your current four week cycle.

Ask your doctor if you have not received, or have misplaced, your MyLonsurf dosing calendar.

How much to take / use

  • Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how many tablets you will need to take each time. The dose depends on your weight and height and if you have kidney problems.
  • LONSURF comes in two strengths. Your doctor may prescribe both strengths for your prescribed dose.
  • You will take the dose two times a day - half the dose in the morning and half the dose at night.
  • Swallow LONSURF tablets whole, with a glass of water.
  • Wash your hands after handling LONSURF tablets.

When to take / use LONSURF

Your doctor will usually prescribe LONSURF for 10 days during the first two weeks and then stop for two weeks. This two week on, two weeks off treatment period is one 'cycle' of treatment.

The specific dosing schedule is as follows:

  • Week 1 - take the dose two times a day for five days. Then have two days off - no medicine.
  • Week 2 - take the dose two times a day for five days. Then have two days off - no medicine.
  • Week 3 - no medicine.
  • Week 4 - no medicine.

You will then begin another treatment cycle following the above pattern.

Take LONSURF immediately after your morning and evening meals, or within one hour after completion of your morning and evening meals.

How long to take it

Your doctor will continue to treat you with LONSURF as long as you are receiving benefit from therapy. Your doctor may need to reduce your dose or may decide to stop treatment if you experience serious side effects.

Do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to - even if you feel better.

If you do not understand the instructions provided, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help.

If you forget to use LONSURF

If you miss a dose, do not take the missed dose at a later date. Make a record of the dose you missed and tell your doctor and/or pharmacist immediately.

Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed.

This may increase the chance of you getting an unwanted side effect.

If you have trouble remembering to take your medicine, ask your pharmacist for some hints.

If you use too much LONSURF

If you think that you have used too much LONSURF, you may need urgent medical attention.

You should immediately do one of the following:

  • phone the Poisons Information Centre
    (by calling 13 11 26), or
  • contact your doctor, or
  • go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital.

You should do one of the above even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.

5. What should I know while using LONSURF?

Things you should do

Tell any other doctors, dentists, and pharmacists who are treating you that you are taking LONSURF.

If you are about to be started on any new medicines, tell your doctor, dentist or pharmacist that you are taking LONSURF.

Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment with LONSURF, or plan to become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding while being treated with LONSURF.

If you are about to have any blood tests, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. It may interfere with the results of some tests.

Things you should not do

  • Do not give LONSURF to anyone else, even if their symptoms seem similar or they have the same condition as you.
  • Do not take LONSURF to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Do not stop taking LONSURF, or lower the dosage, even if you are feeling better, without checking with your doctor.

Driving or using machines

Be careful before you drive or use any machines or tools until you know how LONSURF affects you.

Looking after your medicine

  • Keep your tablets in the pack until it is time to take them.

Follow the instructions in the carton on how to take care of your medicine properly.

Store it in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight; for example, do not store it:

  • in the bathroom or near a sink, or
  • in the car or on window sills.

Keep it where young children cannot reach it.

A locked cupboard at least one-and-a-half metres above the ground is a good place to store medicines.

When to discard your medicine

Do not take LONSURF after the expiry date printed on the pack.

The expiry date is printed on the carton and bottle after "EXP" (e.g. 11 17 refers to November 2017). The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

Do not take LONSURF if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.

If it has expired or is damaged, return it to your pharmacist for disposal.

Getting rid of any unwanted medicine

If you no longer need to use this medicine or it is out of date, take it to any pharmacy for safe disposal.

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

6. Are there any side effects?

All medicines can have side effects. If you do experience any side effects, most of them are minor and temporary. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. However, some side effects may need medical attention. You may need medical treatment if you get any of the side effects listed below, after taking LONSURF alone or in combination with another type of cancer chemotherapy, bevacizumab.

See the information below and, if you need to, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any further questions about side effects.

Serious side effects

Serious side effectsWhat to do
Skin
  • sudden signs of allergy such as skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body
Gastrointestinal
  • vomiting and diarrhoea, which may lead to a dehydration if severe or persistent.
  • abdominal pain. The signs include intense stomach or abdominal pain that can be associated with vomiting, blocked or partly blocked bowel, fever or swelling of the abdomen.
  • severe gastrointestinal problems: ascites, colitis, acute pancreatitis, ileus and subileus. The signs include intense stomach or abdominal pain that can be associated with vomiting, blocked or partly blocked bowel, fever or swelling of the abdomen.
Respiratory and heart
  • shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • pulmonary embolism - blood clots in lungs. The signs include shortness of breath and pain in the chest or in the legs.
Blood and investigations
  • neutropenia – a decreased number of white blood cells. The signs include chills, fever (febrile neutropenia), sweating or other sign of infection.
  • anaemia - a condition in which there is a decreased number of red blood cells. The signs include feeling short of breath, tiredness or looking pale.
  • thrombocytopenia - low blood platelet count. The signs include unusual bruising or bleeding.
Infections
  • septic shock. The signs include chills, fever, sweating or other sign of infection
Call your doctor straight away, or go straight to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital if you notice any of these serious side effects.

Less serious side effects

Less serious side effectsWhat to do
Skin and hair
  • rash, itchy or flaky skin
  • skin flushing
  • dry skin
  • raised itchy rash, hives, acne
  • sweating more than normal and, nail problem
  • raised red skin, blisters, skin sloughing off
  • swelling of mucous membranes - this could be inside the nose, throat, eyes, vagina, lungs or gut
  • sensitivity to light
  • hair loss
Gastrointestinal
  • decreased appetite
  • nausea - feeling sick
  • constipation
  • weight loss
  • bloating, passing gas, indigestion
  • inflammation in lower part of digestive tract
  • swelling or bleeding in your bowel
  • inflammation or increased acid in your stomach or gullet, reflux
  • inflammation and infection in your gut
  • inflammation in upper part of digestive tract
  • pain in upper or lower part of digestive tract
  • inflammation or bleeding in your bowel
  • increase in the diameter of the bile duct
Mouth and throat
  • changes in taste
  • swelling of mucous membranes in mouth
  • mouth pain or problems
  • mouth ulcers
  • painful tongue, retching
  • bad breath, tooth decay, tooth problems, gum infections
  • sore throat, hoarse voice, problems with your voice
  • bad breath, gum problems, bleeding gums
  • polyps inside your mouth
Kidney and liver related
  • increased bilirubin in your blood - can cause yellowing of skin or eyes
  • increased liver enzymes
  • protein in your urine
  • liver disorder
  • inflammation or infection of bile ducts. The signs may include pain on the right side of your stomach.
  • kidney failure. The signs include little or no urine, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, breathlessness
  • blood in urine
  • urine retention - problems passing water, incontinence - loss of bladder control
  • inflammation in your bladder
  • changes in urine test
Respiratory and heart
  • Interstitial lung disease has been reported in patients receiving the medicine in Japan. The signs include difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, with cough or fever.
  • cough, feeling short of breath, infection of the sinuses, throat, airway or lungs, chest infections
  • more noticeable heart-beat, chest pain
  • abnormal increase or decrease in heart rate
  • accumulation of fluid in the lungs
  • changes in your heart trace (ECG - electrocardiogram)
Blood and investigations
  • reduced white blood cells called leucocytes - can increase your risk for infection
  • low levels of albumin or total protein in the blood
  • reduced number of white blood cells called lymphocytes - can increase your risk for infection
  • blood test results indicating problems with clotting making you bleed more easily
  • increased number of white blood cells called monocytes
  • increased lactate dehydrogenase level in your blood
  • low levels of phosphates, sodium, potassium or calcium in your blood
  • reduced white blood cells called monocytes - can increase your risk for infection
  • hyperglycaemia - high blood sugar, urea, creatinine and potassium in your blood
  • blood test result indicating inflammation (C-Reactive Protein increased)
  • reduced white blood cells called granulocytes - can increase your risk of infection
  • increased salt in your blood
  • blood clots, e.g. in the brain or legs
  • low level of total protein in the blood
Infections
  • viral infection
  • shingles - pain and vesicular rash on skin over nerve tracts affected by nerve inflammation from herpes zoster virus
  • infections: bacterial or fungal
  • infection in your bladder
  • athlete's foot - fungal infection of feet, yeast infections
Musculoskeletal
  • swelling in your hands or legs or feet
  • pain in your joints
  • muscle pain
  • swelling or pain in your joints or big toes
  • pain in your arms or legs
  • pain, including pain from the cancer
  • bone pain, muscle weakness or spasms,
  • feeling of numbness or pins and needles in hands or feet
  • redness, swelling, pain on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet (hand-foot syndrome)
Nervous system
  • feeling dizzy, headache
  • low or high blood pressure
  • vertigo - feeling of spinning
  • anxiety
  • problem with sleeping or falling asleep
  • non-severe neurological troubles
  • feeling lethargic or tired
  • feeling dizzy, headache
  • burning sensation, unpleasant, increased or loss of sense of touch
  • fainting (syncope)
Eye, ear and nose
  • redness, itching of the eye, eye infections, watery eyes
  • vision troubles as blurred vision, double vision, decreased vision, cataracts
  • dry eyes
  • ear pain
  • runny or bloody nose, sinus problems
Reproductive system
  • changes in the menstrual cycle
General
  • dehydration
  • fever
  • fatigue - feeling very tired
  • malaise - feeling generally out of sorts
  • general feeling of discomfort
  • feeling of being cold
Speak to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects and they worry you.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that may be making you feel unwell.

Other side effects not listed here may occur in some people.

Reporting side effects

After you have received medical advice for any side effects you experience, you can report side effects to the Therapeutic Goods Administration online at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Always make sure you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before you decide to stop taking any of your medicines.

7. Product details

This medicine is only available with a doctor's prescription.

What LONSURF contains

Active ingredients
(main ingredients)		Trifluridine
Tipiracil (as hydrochloride)
Other ingredients
(inactive ingredients)		Lactose monohydrate
Pre-gelatinised starch
Stearic acid
Hypromellose
Macrogol (8000)
Titanium dioxide (E171) Magnesium stearate
The printing ink contains:
Shellac
Iron oxide red (E172)
Iron oxide yellow (E172),
Titanium dioxide (E171)
Indigo carmine aluminium lake (E132)
Carnauba wax
Talc
Potential allergensLactose

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of these ingredients.

What LONSURF looks like

LONSURF 15/ 6.14 is a white, biconvex, round, film-coated tablet, printed with "15" on one side and "102" and "15 mg" on the other side in grey ink.

(Tablet image not actual size)

LONSURF 20 /8.19 is a pale red, biconvex, round, film-coated tablet, printed with "20" on one side and "102" and "20 mg" on the other side in grey ink.

(Tablet image not actual size)

Each pack contains 20 film-coated tablets (2 blisters of 10 tablets each) or 60 film-coated tablets (6 blisters of 10 tablets each).

(AUST R 273239: LONSURF 15/6.14 tablets
AUST R 273238: LONSURF 20/8.19 tablets).

Who distributes LONSURF

Servier Laboratories (Aust.) Pty. Ltd.
www.servier.com.au
Level 4, Building 9
588A Swan Street
Burnley, 3121, Victoria

This leaflet was prepared in November 2024.

Published by MIMS February 2025

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Lonsurf

Active ingredient

Trifluridine; Tipiracil

Schedule

S4

 

1 Name of Medicine

Trifluridine/ tipiracil hydrochloride.

2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

Each Lonsurf 15/6.14 film-coated tablet contains 15 mg of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride 7.065 mg (equivalent to tipiracil 6.14 mg). Each Lonsurf 20/8.19 film-coated tablet contains 20 mg of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride 9.420 mg (equivalent to tipiracil 8.19 mg).
The active components of Lonsurf are trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride.

Excipients with known effect.

Each Lonsurf 15/6.14 tablet contains 90.735 mg of lactose.
Each Lonsurf 20/8.19 tablet contains 120.980 mg of lactose.
For the full list of excipients, see Section 6.1 List of Excipients.

3 Pharmaceutical Form

Lonsurf 15/6.14: white, biconvex, round, film-coated tablet, imprinted with '15' on one side, and '102' and '15 mg' on the other side, in grey ink.
Lonsurf 20/8.19: pale red, biconvex, round, film-coated tablet, imprinted with '20' on one side, and '102' and '20 mg' on the other side, in grey ink.

4 Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

Colorectal cancer.

Lonsurf is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) who have been previously treated with, or are not considered candidates for fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-based chemotherapies, anti-VEGF agents, and anti-EGFR agents.

Gastric cancer.

Lonsurf is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma previously treated with at least two prior lines of chemotherapy that included a fluoropyrimidine, a platinum, either a taxane or irinotecan, and if appropriate, HER2/neu-targeted therapy.

4.2 Dose and Method of Administration

Dosage (dose and interval).

Lonsurf must be administered by doctors who are familiar with the use of antineoplastic medicines and have the facilities for regular monitoring of clinical, haematological, and biochemical parameters during and after treatment.
Complete blood cell counts must be taken prior to initiation of each cycle.

Dose.

The recommended starting dose of Lonsurf in adults is 35 mg/m2/dose (based on the trifluridine component) administered orally twice daily on Days 1 to 5 and Days 8 to 12 of each 28-day cycle as long as benefit is observed or until unacceptable toxicity occurs (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
The Lonsurf dose is calculated according to body surface area (BSA). Do not exceed 80 mg/dose.
If doses were missed or held, the patient should not make up for missed doses.

Starting dose.

See Table 1.

Dose modification guidelines.

Dosing adjustments may be required based on individual safety and tolerability.
A maximum of 3 dose reductions to a minimum dose of 20 mg/m2 twice daily, are permitted. Dose escalation is not permitted after it has been reduced.
In the event of haematological and/or non-haematological toxicities patients should follow the dose interruption, resumption and reduction criteria stated in Table 2, Table 3 and Table 4.

Method of administration.

Lonsurf should be administered orally twice daily on Days 1 to 5 and Days 8 to 12 of each 28-day cycle as long as benefit is observed or until unacceptable toxicity occurs (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
If doses were missed or held, the patient should not make up for missed doses.

Special precautions for disposal.

Hands should be washed after handling tablets.
Any unused medicines or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

Dosage adjustment.

Patients with impaired renal function.

Mild renal impairment (CrCl 60 to 89 mL/min) or moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to 59 mL/min).

No adjustment of the starting dose is recommended in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use; Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).
Patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 59 mL/min) at baseline had a higher incidence (defined as a difference of at least 5%) of ≥ Grade 3 adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, and dose delays and reductions compared to the patients with normal (CrCl ≥ 90 mL/min) or mild renal impairment (CrCl = 60 to 89 mL/min) at baseline. In addition, a higher exposure of trifluridine and tipiracil was observed in patients with moderate renal impairment at baseline, compared with patients with normal renal function or patients with mild renal impairment at baseline (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties). Patients with moderate renal impairment should be more frequently monitored for haematological toxicities and may require dose adjustment (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration, Dose modification guidelines).

Severe renal impairment (CrCl 15 to 29 mL/min).

For patients with severe renal impairment a starting dose of 20 mg/m2 twice daily is recommended (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use; Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties). One dose reduction to a minimum dose of 15 mg/m2 twice daily is permitted based on individual safety and tolerability (see Table 5). Dose escalation is not permitted after it has been reduced.
In the event of haematological and/or non-haematological toxicities patients should follow the dose interruption, resumption and reduction criteria stated in Table 2, Table 3 and Table 5.

End stage renal disease (CrCl below 15 mL/min or requiring dialysis).

Administration is not recommended in patients with end stage renal disease as there are no data available for these patients (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Patients with impaired hepatic function.

Mild hepatic impairment.

No adjustment of the starting dose is recommended in patients with mild hepatic impairment (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).

Moderate or severe hepatic impairment.

Administration is not recommended in patients with baseline moderate or severe hepatic impairment (National Cancer Institute [NCI] Criteria Group C and D defined by total bilirubin > 1.5 x ULN) as, a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinaemia is observed in patients with baseline moderate hepatic impairment, although this is based on very limited data (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use; Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).
Paediatric population. The safety and efficacy of Lonsurf in children aged < 18 years has not yet been established. No data are available.
Elderly patients. No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients (aged ≥ 65 years). Efficacy and safety data in patients aged > 75 years is limited.
Ethnicity. No adjustment of the starting dose is required on the basis of patient's race. There is limited data on Lonsurf in African American patients but there is no biological rationale to expect any difference between this subgroup and the overall population.

4.3 Contraindications

Lonsurf is contraindicated in patients with a history of previous hypersensitivity to tipiracil, trifluridine or any of the excipient ingredients.

4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use

The safety of Lonsurf has not been studied in patients with mCRC with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≥ 2.

Bone marrow suppression.

In the 868 patients who received Lonsurf in RECOURSE and TAGS, Lonsurf caused severe and life-threatening myelosuppression (Grade 3-4) consisting of anaemia (12.1%), neutropenia (34.1%), thrombocytopenia (3.7%) and febrile neutropenia (3%).
Two patients (0.2%) died due to neutropenic infection/sepsis and four other patients (0.5%) died due to septic shock. A total of 12% of Lonsurf-treated patients received granulocyte-colony stimulating factors.
For cycle 1, consider clinical review and FBC on day 15 and then as clinically indicated. Thereafter obtain complete blood counts prior to each cycle of Lonsurf and more frequently as clinically indicated. Withhold Lonsurf for severe myelosuppression and resume at the next lower dosage (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).
Serious infections have been reported following treatment with Lonsurf (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). Given that the majority were reported in the context of bone marrow suppression, the patient's condition should be monitored closely and appropriate measures such as antimicrobial medicines and Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF), should be administered as clinically indicated. In RECOURSE, TAGS and SUNLIGHT studies (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties), 9.4%, 17.3% and 19.5% of patients in the Lonsurf group respectively received G-CSF mainly for therapeutic use. In the SUNLIGHT study, 29.3% of patients in the Lonsurf with bevacizumab group received G-CSF including 16.3% for therapeutic use.

Gastrointestinal toxicity.

Lonsurf caused an increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal toxicities including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Patients with nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal toxicities should be carefully monitored. Appropriate measures such as antiemetic, antidiarrhoeal, and/or fluid/electrolyte replacement therapy should be administered as clinically indicated. Dose modifications (delay and/or reduction) should be applied as necessary (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Lactose intolerance.

Lonsurf contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

Use in hepatic impairment.

Lonsurf is not recommended for use in patients with baseline moderate or severe hepatic impairment (National Cancer Institute [NCI] Criteria Group C and D) defined by total bilirubin > 1.5 x ULN), as a higher incidence of Grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinaemia is observed in patients with baseline moderate hepatic impairment, although this is based on very limited data (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).

Use in renal impairment.

Lonsurf is not recommended for use in patients with end-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance [CrCl] < 15 mL/min or requiring dialysis), as it has not been studied in these patients (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).
In RECOURSE, patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 59 mL/min) had a higher incidence (defined as a difference of at least 5%) of ≥ Grade 3 adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, and dose delays and reductions compared to the patients with normal renal function (CrCl ≥ 90 mL/min) or mild renal impairment (CrCl = 60 to 89 mL/min). In TAGS, there was no marked difference between the normal renal function, the mild and the moderate renal impairment subgroups (based on baseline CrCl) with respect to overall incidence of AEs, ≥ Grade 3 AEs or serious AEs, dose delays and reductions. However, several of the most frequently reported AEs increased with the degree of renal impairment (anaemia, neutropenia, decreased appetite and diarrhoea) and patients with moderate impairment had higher incidences of Grade 3 and 4 abnormalities for haemoglobin and leukocytes compared to normal and mild impairment subgroups.
In addition, a higher exposure of trifluridine and tipiracil was observed in patients with moderate renal impairment, compared with patients with normal renal function or patients with mild renal impairment (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).
Patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl = 15 to 29 mL/min) and adjusted starting dose of 20 mg/m2 twice daily had a safety profile consistent with the safety profile of Lonsurf in patients with normal renal function or mild renal impairment. Their exposure to trifluridine was similar to that of patients with normal renal function and their exposure to tipiracil hydrochloride was increased compared to patients with normal renal function, mild and moderate renal impairment (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration; Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).
Patients with moderate or severe renal impairment should be monitored more frequently for haematological toxicities.

Use in the elderly.

No adjustment of the recommended starting dose of Lonsurf is required for patients aged ≥ 65 years. Efficacy and safety data in patients aged > 75 years are limited.

Paediatric use.

Use of Lonsurf in children aged < 18 years is not recommended as no data establishing safety or effectiveness in children are available. When trifluridine/tipiracil (molar ratio 1:0.5) was administered orally once daily to rats at 5, 15, 50 and 150 mg trifluridine/kg for 13 weeks, incisor abnormalities, such as whitening, breakage and malocclusion were observed at ≥ 50 mg trifluridine/kg/day (approximately two times the clinical exposure, based on AUC, at the clinical dose of 35 mg/m2 twice daily).
As the incisors of rats continuously grow (a normal growing incisor is renewed every 40-50 days), it can be supposed that such effects were produced by altered odontogenic epithelium after administration of trifluridine/tipiracil. Therefore, the changes seen at the upper or at the lower part of the dental shaft may be considered to be relevant for paediatric patients.

Effects on laboratory tests.

No data available.

4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions

In vitro studies indicated that trifluridine, tipiracil hydrochloride and 5-[trifluoromethyl] uracil (FTY) did not inhibit the activity of human cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms. In vitro evaluation indicated that trifluridine, tipiracil hydrochloride and FTY had no inductive effect on human CYP isoforms (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties).

Medicines that are inhibitors of OCT2 or MATE1.

In vitro studies indicated that trifluridine is a substrate for the nucleoside transporters CNT1, ENT1 and ENT2. Therefore, caution is required when using medicinal products that interact with these transporters. Tipiracil hydrochloride was a substrate for OCT2 and MATE1, therefore, the concentration might be increased when Lonsurf is administered concomitantly with inhibitors of OCT2 or MATE1.

Medicines that are human thymidine kinase substrates (e.g. zidovudine).

Caution is required when using medicines that are human thymidine kinase substrates, e.g. zidovudine. Such medicines, if used concomitantly with Lonsurf, may compete with the effector, trifluridine, for activation via thymidine kinases. Therefore, when using antiviral medicines that are human thymidine kinase substrates, monitor for possible decreased efficacy of the antiviral medicine, and consider switching to an alternative antiviral medicine that is not a human thymidine kinase substrate, such as lamivudine, didanosine, and abacavir.

Hormonal contraceptives.

It is unknown whether Lonsurf may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Therefore, women using hormonal contraceptives must also use a barrier contraceptive method.

4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation

Effects on fertility.

There are no data available on the effect of Lonsurf on human fertility. In a dedicated study in animals, fertility was unaffected in male and female rats dosed with trifluridine/tipiracil (molar ratio 1:0.5) at up to 221 mg/kg/day (150 mg trifluridine/kg/day, approximately five times the clinical exposure, based on AUC, at 35 mg/m2 twice daily). However, the number of viable embryos was decreased at 150 mg/kg/day (no effect at 50 mg/kg/day, approximately two times the clinical exposure), although the number of implantations and corpora lutea were increased at 150 mg/kg/day. In a general toxicity study by repeated dosing, mild atrophy of seminiferous tubules in the testis and decreased sperm counts in the epididymis were observed in rats at 450 mg trifluridine/kg (approximately 17 times the clinical exposure) and increased ovary weights and number of small corpora lutea at ≥ 150 mg trifluridine/kg/day.
(Category D)
Based on the mechanism of action, trifluridine is suspected to cause congenital malformations when administered during pregnancy. Lonsurf has been shown to cause embryo-foetal lethality and foetal malformations in pregnant rats.
Lonsurf should not be used during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using contraception. Women and men must use highly effective contraception during and up to 6 months after treatment. Women of childbearing potential and their partners should be advised to avoid pregnancies while taking Lonsurf and for up to six months after ending treatment. Patients who wish to conceive a child should be advised to seek reproductive counselling and cryoconservation of either the ovum or sperm prior to starting Lonsurf treatment.
There are no data on the use of Lonsurf in pregnant women. Lonsurf should not be used during pregnancy unless the clinical condition of the woman requires treatment with Lonsurf, and if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the foetus.
It is currently unknown whether Lonsurf may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, and therefore women using hormonal contraceptives should add a barrier contraceptive method.
Effects on embryofetal development was assessed in pregnant rats dosed with trifluridine/tipiracil (molar ratio 1:0.5) once daily during organogenesis. Embryolethality and malformations (kinked tail, cleft palate, ectrodactyly, anasarca, alterations in large blood vessels, ventricular septal defect, supernumerary lung lobe, convoluted/dilated ureter, and skeletal anomalies including misaligned sternebrae and sternoschisis) were observed at 150 mg trifluridine/kg/day (approximately 5 times the clinical exposure, based on AUC, at 35 mg/m2 twice daily). Decreased fetal weight and skeletal variations (delayed ossification, supernumerary ribs/thoracic vertebrae) were observed at ≥ 50 mg trifluridine/kg (approximately 2 times the clinical exposure).
 It is unknown whether Lonsurf or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Studies in animals have shown excretion of trifluridine, tipiracil hydrochloride and/or their metabolites in milk. A risk to the breast-feeding child cannot be excluded. Breast-feeding should be discontinued during treatment with Lonsurf.

4.7 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

Lonsurf might interfere with the ability to drive and operate machinery. Fatigue, dizziness or malaise may occur during treatment (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)

Reporting suspected adverse effects.

Reporting suspected adverse drug reactions after registration of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems.

Summary of the safety profile.

Lonsurf as monotherapy.

The safety profile of Lonsurf as monotherapy is based on the pooled data from 1114 patients with metastatic colorectal or gastric cancer in controlled phase III clinical studies. The most serious observed adverse drug reactions in patients receiving Lonsurf are bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal toxicity (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
The most common adverse reactions (≥ 30%) are neutropenia (53% [34% ≥ Grade 3]), nausea (31% [1% ≥ Grade 3]), fatigue (31% [4% ≥ Grade 3]), and anaemia (30% [11% ≥ Grade 3]).

Lonsurf in combination with bevacizumab.

The safety profile of Lonsurf in combination with bevacizumab is based on the data from 246 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in the controlled phase III clinical trial (SUNLIGHT). The most common adverse drug reactions (≥ 30%) are neutropenia (69% [48% ≥ Grade 3]), fatigue (35% [3% ≥ Grade 3]), and nausea (33% [1% ≥ Grade 3]).
The most common adverse drug reactions (≥ 2%) that resulted in treatment discontinuation, dose reduction, dose delay, or dose interruption of Lonsurf when used in combination with bevacizumab were neutropenia, fatigue, thrombocytopenia, nausea and anaemia.
When Lonsurf was used in combination with bevacizumab, the frequency of the following adverse drug reactions was increased compared to Lonsurf as monotherapy: neutropenia (69% vs 53%), severe neutropenia (48% vs 34%), thrombocytopenia (24% vs 16%), stomatitis (11% vs 6%).

Tabulated list of adverse reactions.

The adverse drug reactions observed from the 533 treated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, in the placebo-controlled Phase III (RECOURSE) clinical trial and 335 patients with metastatic gastric cancer treated in the placebo-controlled Phase III (TAGS) clinical trial, 246 patients treated with Lonsurf monotherapy and 246 patients treated with Lonsurf in combination with bevacizumab for metastatic colorectal cancer in the controlled Phase III (SUNLIGHT) clinical trial are shown in Tables 6 and 7. They are classified according to System Organ Class (SOC) and the appropriate Medical Dictionary for Regulatory (MedDRA) term is used to describe the drug reaction and its synonyms and related conditions.
Adverse reactions known to occur with Lonsurf given alone or with bevacizumab may occur during treatment with these medicinal products in combination, even if these reactions were not reported in clinical trials with combination therapy.
Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported very commonly (i.e. ≥ 10% of patients) in patients treated with Lonsurf in RECOURSE and TAGS, and SUNLIGHT studies are listed in Table 6 and 7 respectively, presented by grade (all grades and ≥ Grade 3).
ADRs reported with a frequency < 10% in patients treated with Lonsurf from the RECOURSE and TAGS, and SUNLIGHT studies are listed in Table 8 and 9 respectively by MedDRA system organ class and by frequency: common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1,000 to < 1/100), rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1000). Within each frequency grouping, adverse drug reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.
Rare and very rare events reported in the RECOURSE and TAGS Phase III clinical trials could not be estimated from the available data due to the limited number of patients exposed to Lonsurf.

Elderly.

Patients aged ≥ 65 years who received Lonsurf as monotherapy had a higher incidence (≥ 5%) of the following treatment-related adverse events compared to patients aged < 65 years: neutropenia (58.9% vs 48.2%), severe neutropenia (41.3% vs 27.9%), anaemia (36.5% vs 25.2%), severe anaemia (14.1% vs 8.9%), decreased appetite (22.6% vs 17.4%), and thrombocytopenia (21.4% vs 12.1%).
When Lonsurf was used in combination with bevacizumab (SUNLIGHT trial), patients 65 years of age or older had a higher incidence (≥ 5%) of the following treatment-related adverse events compared to patients younger than 65 years: neutropenia (75.0% vs 65.1%), severe neutropenia (57.0% vs 41.8%), fatigue (39.0% vs 32.2%), thrombocytopenia (28.0% vs 20.5%), and stomatitis (14.0% vs 8.9%).

Infections.

In Phase III placebo-controlled clinical trials, treatment-related infections occurred more frequently in Lonsurf-treated patients (5.8%) compared to those receiving placebo (1.8%). When Lonsurf was used in combination with bevacizumab (SUNLIGHT trial), treatment-related infections occurred similarly in patients who received Lonsurf with bevacizumab (2.8%) compared to Lonsurf-treated patients (2.4%).

Radiotherapy.

There was a slightly higher incidence of overall haematological and myelosuppression-related adverse reactions for patients who received prior radiotherapy compared to patients without prior radiotherapy in RECOURSE (54.6% versus 49.2%, respectively), of note febrile neutropenia was higher in Lonsurf-treated patients who received prior radiotherapy compared to those that did not. When Lonsurf was used in combination with bevacizumab (SUNLIGHT trial), no increase of incidence of overall haematological and myelosuppression-related adverse reactions was observed for patients who received prior radiotherapy compared to patients without prior radiotherapy in both arms in SUNLIGHT: Lonsurf with bevacizumab (73.7% versus 77.4%) and in Lonsurf-treated patients (64.7% versus 67.7%).

Post-marketing experience in patients with un-resectable advanced or recurrent colorectal cancer.

There have been reports of interstitial lung disease in patients receiving Lonsurf post approval.

4.9 Overdose

For information on the management of overdose, contact the Poison Information Centre on 131126 (Australia).
The highest dose of Lonsurf administered was 180 mg/m2 per day. The adverse events reported in association with an overdose were consistent with the established safety profile. The primary anticipated complication of an overdose is bone marrow suppression. There is no known antidote for an overdose of Lonsurf.
If overdose occurs, supportive management is recommended.

5 Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: antineoplastic agents, antimetabolites. ATC code: L01BC59.

Mechanism of action.

Lonsurf is comprised of an antineoplastic thymidine-based nucleoside analogue, trifluridine, and the thymidine phosphorylase (TPase) inhibitor, tipiracil hydrochloride, at a molar ratio 1:0.5 (weight ratio, 1:0.471).
Following uptake into cancer cells, trifluridine, is phosphorylated by thymidine kinase, further metabolised in cells to a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) substrate, and incorporated directly into DNA, thereby interfering with DNA function to prevent cell proliferation. However, trifluridine is rapidly degraded by thymidine phosphorylase (TPase) and readily metabolised by a first-pass effect following oral administration, hence the inclusion of the thymidine phosphorylase inhibitor, tipiracil hydrochloride.
In nonclinical studies, tipiracil hydrochloride/trifluridine demonstrated antitumor activity against both 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) sensitive and resistant colorectal cancer cell lines. The cytotoxic activity of tipiracil hydrochloride/trifluridine against several human tumour xenografts correlated highly with the amount of trifluridine incorporated into DNA, suggesting this as the primary mechanism of action.
Lonsurf had no clinically relevant effect on QT/QTc prolongation compared with placebo in an open label study in patients with advanced solid tumours.

Pre-clinical data.

Toxicology assessment of tipiracil hydrochloride/trifluridine was performed in rats, dogs and monkeys. The target organs identified were the lymphatic and hematopoietic systems and the gastrointestinal tract. All changes, i.e. leukopenia, anaemia, bone marrow hypoplasia, atrophic changes in the lymphatic and hematopoietic tissues and the gastrointestinal tract, were reversible within nine weeks of medicine withdrawal. Whitening, breakage, and malocclusion (degeneration and disarrangement in the ameloblasts, papillary layer cells and odontoblasts) were observed in teeth of rats treated with trifluridine/tipiracil hydrochloride, which are considered rodent specific and not relevant in humans.

Clinical trials.

Metastatic colorectal cancer.

The clinical efficacy and safety of Lonsurf were evaluated in an international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III study (RECOURSE) in patients with previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer. The primary efficacy endpoint was overall survival (OS), and supportive efficacy endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR).
In total, 800 patients were randomized 2:1 to receive Lonsurf (N = 534) plus best supportive care (BSC) or matching placebo (N = 266) plus BSC. Lonsurf dosing was based on body surface area (BSA) with a starting dose of 35 mg/m2/dose. Study treatment was administered orally twice daily after morning and evening meals for five days a week with a two-day rest for two weeks, followed by a 14-day rest, repeated every four weeks. Patients continued therapy until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).
Of the 800 randomized patients, the median age was 63 years, 61% were male, 58% and 35% were Caucasian and Asian respectively, and 1% were African American. All patients had baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status (PS) of zero or one. The primary site of disease was the colon (62%) or the rectum (38%). KRAS status was wild (49%) or mutant (51%) at study entry. The median number of prior lines of therapy for metastatic disease was three. All patients received prior treatment with fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-based chemotherapy. All but one patient received bevacizumab, and all but two patients with KRAS wild type tumours received panitumumab or cetuximab. The two treatment groups were comparable with respect to demographic and baseline disease characteristics.
Treatment with Lonsurf plus BSC resulted in a clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvement in overall survival in comparison to placebo plus BSC (see Table 10 and Figure 1).
An updated OS analysis, carried out at 89% (N = 712) of events, confirmed the clinically meaningful and statistically significant survival benefit of Lonsurf plus BSC compared to placebo plus BSC (hazard ratio: 0.69; 95% CI [0.59 to 0.81]; p < 0.0001). The median OS was 7.2 months in the Lonsurf plus BSC arm vs 5.2 months in the placebo plus BSC arm, with one year survival Kaplan-Meier estimates of 27.1% and 16.6%, respectively. (See Table 11.)
The OS and PFS benefit was observed consistently, in all relevant pre-specified subgroups, including race, geographic region, age (< 65; ≥ 65), sex, ECOG PS, KRAS status, time since diagnosis of first metastasis, number of metastatic sites, and primary tumour site.
Sixty one percent (61%, n = 485) of all randomized patients received a fluoropyrimidine as part of their last treatment regimen prior to randomization, of which 455 (94%) were refractory to the fluoropyrimidine at that time. Among these patients, OS benefit with Lonsurf remained favourable (HR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.94).
Treatment with Lonsurf plus BSC resulted in a statistically significant prolongation of PS < 2 in comparison to placebo plus BSC. The median time to PS ≥ 2 for the Lonsurf group and placebo group was 5.7 months and 4.0 months, respectively, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.66 (95% CI: 0.56, 0.78), p < 0.0001.
The safety and efficacy of Lonsurf in combination with bevacizumab compared to Lonsurf monotherapy, was evaluated in an international, randomised, open-label, phase III study (SUNLIGHT). Patients in the SUNLIGHT trial had metastatic colorectal cancer and had been previously treated with a maximum of two prior systemic treatment regimens for advanced disease, including a fluoropyrimidine, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody and/or an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody for patients with a RAS wild type tumour. The primary efficacy endpoint was overall survival (OS) and the key secondary efficacy endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). The frequency of some adverse reactions was increased when Lonsurf was used in combination with bevacizumab compared to Lonsurf monotherapy (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

Metastatic gastric cancer.

The clinical efficacy and safety of Lonsurf were evaluated in an international, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III study (TAGS) in patients with previously treated metastatic gastric cancer (including adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction), who had been previously treated with at least two prior systemic treatment regimens for advanced disease, including fluoropyrimidine-, platinum-, and either taxane- or irinotecan-based chemotherapy, plus if appropriate human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-targeted therapy.
The primary efficacy endpoint was overall survival (OS), and supportive efficacy endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), time to deterioration of ECOG performance status ≥ 2 and Quality of Life (QoL). Tumour assessments, according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST), version 1.1, were performed every eight weeks.
In total, 507 patients were randomised 2:1 to receive Lonsurf (N = 337) plus best supportive care (BSC) or placebo (N = 170) plus BSC. Lonsurf dosing was based on BSA with a starting dose of 35 mg/m2/dose. Study treatment was administered orally twice daily after morning and evening meals for five days a week with two day rest for two weeks, followed by 14 days of rest, repeated every four weeks. Patients continued treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).
Of the 507 randomised patients, the median age was 63 years, 73% were male, 70% and 16% were Caucasian and Asian respectively, and < 1% were African American. All patients had baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status (PS) of zero or one. Primary cancer was gastric (71.0%) or gastroesophageal junction cancer (28.6%), or both (0.4%). The median number of prior treatment regimens for metastatic disease was three. Nearly all patients (99.8%) received prior treatment with fluoropyrimidine, all patients received prior treatment with platinum, and 90.5% received prior treatment with taxane. Approximately half of patients (55.4%) received prior treatment with irinotecan, and 33.3% with ramucirumab. The two treatment groups were comparable with respect to demographic and baseline disease characteristics.
An OS analysis of the study, carried out as planned at 76% (N = 384) of events, demonstrated that Lonsurf plus BSC resulted in a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS compared to placebo plus BSC. The hazard ratio (HR) was 0.69 (95% CI: 0.56, 0.85; 1- and 2-sided p values were 0.0003 and 0.0006, respectively) corresponding to a 31% reduction in the risk of death in the Lonsurf group. The median OS was 5.7 months (95% CI: 4.8, 6.2) for the Lonsurf group versus 3.6 months (95% CI: 3.1, 4.1) for the placebo group; with one year survival rates of 21.2% and 13.0%, respectively.
PFS was significantly improved in patients receiving Lonsurf plus BSC compared to placebo plus BSC (HR of 0.57; 95% CI [0.47 to 0.70]; p < 0.0001 (see Table 12, Figures 2 and 3); with PFS rates at two, four and six months in favour of the Lonsurf arm.
The OS and PFS benefit was observed consistently, in all randomization strata and across most pre-specified subgroups, including sex, age (< 65; ≥ 65 years), ethnic origin, geographic region (Japan; ex-Japan), ECOG PS, prior ramucirumab treatment, prior irinotecan treatment, number of prior regimens (2; 3; ≥ 4), time since metastatic diagnosis (< 24; ≥ 24 months), previous gastrectomy, primary tumour site (gastric; gastroesophageal junction), number of metastatic sites (< 3; ≥ 3) and HER2 status.
Patients who had received prior ramucirumab (as monotherapy or in combination) treatment had a median OS in the Lonsurf and placebo arms of 5.0 months and 3.8 months respectively (HR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.529, 1.086). Median OS for patients who had not received prior ramucirumab treatment in the Lonsurf and placebo arms, was 6.0 months and 3.3 months respectively (HR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.506, 0.855).
Patients who had received prior irinotecan treatment had a median OS in the Lonsurf and placebo arms of 5.1 months and 3.6 months respectively (HR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.658, 1.147). Median OS for patients who had not received prior irinotecan treatment in the Lonsurf and placebo arms was 6.1 months and 3.3 months respectively (HR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.390, 0.762).
The DCR (complete response or partial response or stable disease) was significantly higher in patients treated with Lonsurf (44.1% vs 14.5%, p < 0.0001).
The median time to deterioration of ECOG performance status to ≥ 2 was 4.3 months for the Lonsurf group versus 2.3 months for the placebo group with HR of 0.69 (95% CI: 0.562, 0.854), p value = 0.0005.
Quality of life remained stable in both treatment groups, with no clinically relevant changes from baseline, indicating that QoL was maintained during treatment with Lonsurf.

Elderly.

There is limited data in Lonsurf treated patients aged between 75 and 84 years (N=85) in the RECOURSE and TAGS studies. There were no patients aged ≥ 85 years in the RECOURSE study, and only two in the TAGS study. The effect of Lonsurf on overall survival was similar in patients aged < 65 years and ≥ 65 years.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

Absorption.

After oral administration of Lonsurf with [14C]-trifluridine, at least 57% of the administered trifluridine was absorbed and only 3% of the dose was excreted into faeces. After oral administration of Lonsurf with [14C]-tipiracil hydrochloride, at least 27% of the administered tipiracil hydrochloride was absorbed and 50% of the total radioactivity dose measured into faeces, suggestive of moderate gastrointestinal absorption of tipiracil hydrochloride.
Following a single dose of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2) in patients with advanced solid tumours, the mean times to peak plasma concentrations (tmax) of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were around 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively.
In the pharmacokinetic (PK) analyses of the multiple dose administration of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2/dose, twice daily for 5 days a week with 2 days rest for 2 weeks followed by a 14-day rest, repeated every 4 weeks), trifluridine area under the concentration-time curve from time 0 to the last measurable concentration (AUC0-last) was approximately 3-fold higher and maximum concentration (Cmax) was approximately 2-fold higher after multiple dose administration (Day 12 of Cycle 1) of Lonsurf than after single-dose (Day 1 of Cycle 1).
However, there was no accumulation for tipiracil hydrochloride, and no further accumulation of trifluridine with successive cycles (Day 12 of Cycles 2 and 3) of administration of Lonsurf. Following multiple doses of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2/dose twice daily) in patients with advanced solid tumours, the mean times to peak plasma concentrations (tmax) of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were around 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively.

Contribution of tipiracil hydrochloride.

Single-dose administration of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2/dose) increased the mean AUC0-last of trifluridine by 37-fold and Cmax by 22-fold with reduced variability compared to trifluridine alone (35 mg/m2/dose).

Effect of food.

When Lonsurf at a single dose of 35 mg/m2 was administered to 14 patients with solid tumours after a standardised high-fat, high-calorie meal, trifluridine area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) did not change, but trifluridine Cmax, tipiracil hydrochloride Cmax and AUC decreased by approximately 40% compared to those in a fasting state. In clinical studies Lonsurf was administered within 1 hour after completion of the morning and evening meals (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Distribution.

The protein binding of trifluridine in human plasma was over 96% and trifluridine bound mainly to human serum albumin. Plasma protein binding of tipiracil hydrochloride was below 8%. Following a single dose of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2) in patients with advanced solid tumours, the apparent volume of distribution (Vd/F) for trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride was 21 L and 333 L, respectively.

Metabolism.

Trifluridine was mainly eliminated by metabolism via TPase to form an inactive metabolite, FTY. Other minor metabolites, 5-carboxyuracil and 5-carboxy-2'-deoxyuridine were detected, but those levels in plasma and urine were at low or trace levels.
Tipiracil hydrochloride was not metabolised in human liver S9 or in cryopreserved human hepatocytes. Tipiracil hydrochloride was the major component and 6-hydroxymethyluracil was the major metabolite consistently in human plasma, urine, and faeces.

Excretion.

Following the multiple-dose administration of Lonsurf at the recommended dose and regimen, the mean elimination half-life (t1/2) for trifluridine on Day 1 of Cycle 1 and on Day 12 of Cycle 1 were 1.4 hours and 2.1 hours, respectively. The mean t1/2 values for tipiracil hydrochloride on Day 1 of Cycle 1 and on Day 12 of Cycle 1 were 2.1 hours and 2.4 hours, respectively.
Following a single dose of Lonsurf (35 mg/m2) in patients with advanced solid tumours, the oral clearance (CL/F) for trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were 10.5 L/hr and 109 L/hr, respectively. After single oral administration of Lonsurf with [14C]-trifluridine, the total cumulative excretion of radioactivity was 60% of the administered dose. The majority of recovered radioactivity was eliminated into urine (55% of the dose) within 24 hours, and the excretion into faeces and expired air was less than 3% for both. After single oral administration of Lonsurf with [14C]-tipiracil hydrochloride, recovered radioactivity was 77% of the dose, which consisted of 27% urinary excretion and 50% faecal excretion.
In a dose finding study (15 to 35 mg/m2 BID), the AUC0-10 of trifluridine tended to increase more than expected based on the increase in dose; however, oral clearance (CL/F) and apparent volume of distribution (Vd/F) of trifluridine were generally constant at the dose range of 20 to 35 mg/m2. As for the other exposure parameters of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride, those appeared to be dose proportional.

Pharmacokinetics in special populations.

Age, gender, and race.

Based on the population pharmacokinetic analysis, there is no clinically relevant effect of age, gender or race on the pharmacokinetics of trifluridine or tipiracil hydrochloride.

Renal impairment.

Of the 533 patients in the RECOURSE study who received Lonsurf, 306 (57%) patients had normal renal function (CrCl ≥ 90 mL/min), 178 (33%) patients had mild renal impairment (CrCl 60 to 89 mL/min), and 47 (9%) had moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to 59 mL/min), with data missing for 2 patients. Patients with severe renal impairment were not enrolled in the study.
Based on a population PK analysis, the exposure of Lonsurf in patients with mild renal impairment (CrCl = 60 to 89 mL/min) was similar to those in patients with normal renal function (CrCl ≥ 90 mL/min). A higher exposure of Lonsurf was observed in moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 59 mL/min). Estimated (CrCl) was a significant covariate for CL/F in both final models of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride. The mean relative ratio of AUC in patients with mild (n = 38) and moderate (n = 16) renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function (n = 84) were 1.31 and 1.43 for trifluridine, respectively, and 1.34 and 1.65 for tipiracil hydrochloride, respectively.
In a dedicated study, the pharmacokinetics of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were evaluated in cancer patients with normal renal function (CrCl ≥ 90 mL/min, N=12), mild renal impairment (CrCl =60 to 89 mL/min, N=12), moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 59 mL/min, N=11), or severe renal impairment (CrCl = 15 to 29 mL/min, N=8).
All patients received Lonsurf 35 mg/m2 twice daily except for patients with severe renal impairment who received an adjusted starting dose of 20 mg/m2 twice daily (reduced to 15 mg/m2 twice daily based on individual safety and tolerability).
Mild renal impairment had no important effect on steady-state AUC0-last of trifluridine and tipiracil. Moderate renal impairment increased steady-state AUC0-last of trifluridine by 56% and tipiracil by 139% compared to normal renal function. Severe renal impairment increased the steady-state AUC0-last of trifluridine by 37% and tipiracil by 308% compared to normal renal function.
The PK of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride have not been studied in patients with end-stage renal disease (CrCl < 15 mL/min or requiring dialysis) (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).

Hepatic impairment.

Based on the population pharmacokinetic analysis, liver function parameters including alkaline phosphatase (ALP, 36-2,322 U/L), aspartate aminotransferase (AST, 11-197 U/L), alanine aminotransferase (ALT, 5-182 U/L), and total bilirubin (0.17-3.20 mg/dL) were not significant covariates for pharmacokinetics parameters of either trifluridine or tipiracil hydrochloride. Serum albumin was found to significantly affect trifluridine clearance, with a negative correlation. For low albumin values ranging from 2.2 to 3.5 g/dL, the corresponding clearance values range from 4.2 to 3.1 L/h. In a dedicated study, the PK of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were evaluated in cancer patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (National Cancer Institute [NCI] Criteria Group B and C, respectively) and in patients with normal hepatic function, no clinically important differences in the mean exposure were observed. Based upon limited data with a considerable variability, no statistically significant differences were observed in the pharmacokinetics in patients with normal hepatic function versus patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Five out of six patients with moderate hepatic impairment and 2 out of 8 patients in the control group experienced Grade 3 or 4 increased bilirubin levels. No correlation was seen for trifluridine nor tipiracil hydrochloride between PK parameters and AST or/and total blood bilirubin. Half-life time (t1/2) and the accumulation ratio of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride were similar between the moderate, mild and normal hepatic function patients. Enrolment into the dedicated hepatic impairment study was discontinued due to the high incidence of Grade 3 or 4 increased bilirubin levels in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. There is no need for a starting dose adjustment in patients with mild hepatic impairment (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration). The use of Lonsurf is not recommended in patients with baseline moderate or severe hepatic impairment due to the observed high incidence of Grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinaemia in patients with baseline moderate hepatic impairment (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).

Gastrectomy.

The influence of gastrectomy on PK parameters was not able to be examined in the population PK analysis because there were few patients who had undergone gastrectomy (1% of overall).

In vitro interaction studies.

Trifluridine is a substrate of TPase, but is not metabolised by cytochrome P450 (CYP). Tipiracil hydrochloride is not metabolised in either human liver S9 or cryopreserved hepatocytes.
In vitro studies indicated that trifluridine, tipiracil hydrochloride and FTY (inactive metabolite of trifluridine) did not inhibit the CYP isoforms tested (CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4/5). In vitro evaluation indicated that trifluridine, tipiracil hydrochloride and FTY had no inductive effect on human CYP1A2, CYP2B6 or CYP3A4/5. Thus trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride are not expected to cause or be subject to a significant medicinal product interaction mediated by CYP.
In vitro evaluation of trifluridine and tipiracil hydrochloride was conducted using human uptake and efflux transporters (trifluridine with MDR1, OATP1B1, OATP1B3 and BCRP; tipiracil hydrochloride with OAT1, OAT3, OCT2, MATE1, MDR1 and BCRP). Neither trifluridine nor tipiracil hydrochloride was an inhibitor of or substrate for human uptake and efflux transporters based on in vitro studies. Tipiracil hydrochloride has been identified as both a substrate for, and inhibitor of OCT2 and MATE1. Tipiracil hydrochloride was an inhibitor of OCT2 and MATE1 in vitro, but at concentrations substantially higher than human plasma Cmax at steady state. Thus it is unlikely to cause an interaction with other medicinal products, at recommended doses, due to inhibition of OCT2 and MATE1. Transport of tipiracil hydrochloride by OCT2 and MATE1 might be affected when Lonsurf is administered concomitantly with inhibitors of OCT2 and MATE1.

Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship.

The efficacy and safety of Lonsurf in mCRC was compared between a high-exposure group (> median) and a low-exposure group (≤ median) based on the median AUC value of trifluridine. OS appeared more favourable in the high AUC group compared to the low AUC group (median OS of 9.3 vs. 8.1 months, respectively). All AUC groups performed better than placebo throughout the follow-up period. The incidences of Grade ≥ 3 neutropenia were higher in the high-trifluridine AUC group (47.8%) compared with the low-trifluridine AUC group (30.4%).

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

Genotoxicity.

Trifluridine is mutagenic and clastogenic. It induced gene mutation in bacteria and chromosome aberration in Chinese hamster ovary cells in vitro and in mouse micronucleus test in vivo. Tipiracil hydrochloride was not genotoxic in these genotoxicity assays.

Carcinogenicity.

No long term studies evaluating the carcinogenic potential of trifluridine/tipiracil in animals have been performed. Based on the pharmacological activity and genotoxicity of trifluridine, trifluridine is expected to be carcinogenic.

6 Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List of Excipients

Lactose monohydrate, pre-gelatinised starch, stearic acid.

Film-coating.

Titanium dioxide, hypromellose, macrogol (8000), magnesium stearate, iron oxide red (E172) (specific to Lonsurf 20/8.19).

Ink imprinting.

Indigo carmine aluminium lake (E132), iron oxide yellow (E172), iron oxide red (E172), shellac, carnauba wax, talc, titanium dioxide (E171).

6.2 Incompatibilities

Incompatibilities were either not assessed or not identified as part of the registration of this medicine.

6.3 Shelf Life

36 months.

6.4 Special Precautions for Storage

Store below 30°C.

6.5 Nature and Contents of Container

Tablets are supplied in a box containing aluminium/ aluminium blister trays and a laminated desiccant. Each blister tray contains ten tablets. Pack size of 20 and 60# film-coated tablets.
# The 60 tablet pack size is not distributed in Australia.

6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal

In Australia, any unused medicine or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

6.7 Physicochemical Properties

Trifluridine.

Trifluridine is a white crystalline powder, soluble in water, ethanol, 0.01 mol/L hydrochloric acid, 0.01 mol/L sodium hydroxide solution; freely soluble in methanol, acetone; sparingly soluble in 2-propanol, acetonitrile; slightly soluble in diethyl ether; and very slightly soluble in isopropyl ether.

Chemical structure.


Molecular formula: C10H11F3N2O5 (Relative Molecular Mass: 296.20).

CAS number.

70-00-8.

Tipiracil.

Tipiracil hydrochloride is a white crystalline powder, soluble in water, 0.01 mol/L hydrochloric acid, and 0.01 mol/L sodium hydroxide; slightly soluble in methanol; very slightly soluble in ethanol; and practically insoluble in acetonitrile, 2-propanol, acetone, diisopropyl ether, and diethyl ether.

Chemical structure.


Molecular formula: C9H11ClN4O2.HCl (Relative Molecular Mass: 279.12).

CAS number.

183204-72-0.

7 Medicine Schedule (Poisons Standard)

S4: Prescription-only Medicine.

Summary Table of Changes