A Study to Assess the Pharmacokinetics of Midazolam, Dabigatran, Pitavastatin, Atorvastatin, and Rosuvastatin Administered as Microdoses in Subjects With Varying Degrees of Renal Insufficiency in the Presence and Absence of Rifampin
Phase: PHASE1
Conditions: Renal Insufficiency
Sponsor: Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC

Official Protocol Title: 
NCT number: 
NCT03311841
26-Feb-2018
Document Date: 
A Study to Assess the Pharmacokinetics of Midazolam, Dabigatran, 
Pitavastatin, Atorvastatin, and Rosuvastatin Administered as 
Microdoses in Subjects With Varying Degrees of Renal 
Insufficiency in the Presence and Absence of Rifampin

 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
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CONFIDENTIAL 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
 
 
 
A Study to Assess the Pharmacokinetics of Midazolam, Dabigatran, Pitavastatin, 
Atorvastatin, and Rosuvastatin Administered as Microdoses in Subjects With Varying 
Degrees of Renal Insufficiency in the Presence and Absence of Rifampin 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Compliance Statement 
Merck clinical studies will be conducted in compliance with local and/or national 
regulations and in accordance with the ethical principles that have their origin in the 
Declaration of Helsinki. 
 
Confidentiality Statement 
This document is confidential. It contains proprietary information of Merck. Any 
viewing or disclosure of such information that is not authorized in writing by Merck is 
strictly prohibited. Such information may be used solely for the purpose of reviewing 
or performing this study. 
 
 
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1 
PROTOCOL REVISION HISTORY 
Date/Name 
Description 
26Feb2018 
 
Amendment 2, Final Protocol for review 
This protocol amendment is being written because changes or 
corrections are required to the biomarker and pharmacokinetic 
blood sampling and processing and urine collection as described in 
the protocol.  
As a result of the amendment, the following sections of the protocol 
were updated (in bold for addition and strikethrough for deletion): 
1. Appendix 6, Sample Handling Instructions for Midazolam and 
Dabigatran Samples: Updated instructions. 
2. Appendix 9: Specimen Collection Procedures – Plasma and 
Serum Biomarkers: Added or updated procedures. 
3. Appendix 10: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine 
Collection (Biomarkers): Added or updated instructions. 
19Dec2017 
 
Amendment 1, Final Protocol for review 
This protocol amendment is being written because changes or 
corrections are required to the biomarker and pharmacokinetic 
blood sampling and processing and urine collection as described in 
protocol.  
In addition, a few other clarifications to the study conduct were 
incorporated into the protocol. 
As a result of the amendment, the following sections of the protocol 
were updated (in bold for addition and strikethrough for deletion): 
1. Section 6, Flow Chart, the row “Blood for Plasma Total and 
Direct Bilirubin (P1 & P2)” changed to: “Blood for Serum 
Total and Direct Bilirubin (P1 & P2) (Central Lab).” 
2. Section 6, Flow Chart, the row “Blood for Serum Creatinine 
(P1 & P2)” changed to: “Blood for Serum Creatinine (P1 & 
P2) (Central Lab).” 
3. Section 6, Flow Chart, footer g changed to: “To be performed 
in Period 1 only. Note: For protein binding, it will be analysed 
 
 
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as part of the biomarker sample.” 
4. Section 8.1.3, Exploratory Objectives, Section 8.2, Analysis 
Endpoints, Biomarkers, and corresponding sections in the 
synopsis (Exploratory Objectives and Key Assessments, 
Biomarkers): In these sections, reference to “plasma 
biomarkers” or “plasma and urinary biomarkers” was changed 
to include reference to plasma, serum and urine biomarkers, 
and Appendix 9: Specimen Collection Procedure – “Plasma 
Biomarkers” changed to:  “…Plasma and Serum Biomarkers.”  
5. Section 5, Synopsis, Biomarkers, Section 6, Study Events Flow 
Chart, Footer ‘t”, Section 8.2, Analysis Endpoints, Biomarkers, 
and Section 10.2.2, Urine Collection: Urine creatinine as a 
biomarker has been removed from the urine sample analysis, 
thus these sections changed to remove urine creatinine: “Urine 
creatinine will also be measured [central lab] in addition to 
coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF.” or “urine creatinine (clinical laboratory)” or 
“creatinine”, as appriopriate.  
6. Section 9.2.1.1, Inclusion Criteria, Subjects with Renal 
Impairment, Inclusion Criterion #2:  updated to include note: 
“A female must be non-pregnant, non-breast feeding and if she 
is of reproductive potential: must demonstrate a serum β-
human chorionic gonadotropin (β –hCG) level consistent with 
the nongravid state at screening (Note: if a subject has a β –
hCG level that is not consistent with the non-gravid state 
due to disease or medication, the investigators may consult 
with the sponsor to obtain approval to enroll the subject in 
the study) and…”  
7. Section 9.2.2.2, Exclusion Criteria, Subjects with Renal 
Impairment, Exclusion Criterion #7:  updated to allow 
cholecystectomy: “Subject with a history of significant 
endocrine (other than T2DM), gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, 
hematological, immunological, respiratory, or genitourinary 
diseases whose current condition is considered clinically 
unstable in the opinion of the investigator or designee.  
Subjects who have had a cholecystectomy may be allowed.” 
8. Section 9.4.1, Treatments Administered: Added records: 
“Treatment A will be supplied as microdose cocktail. See 
Table 2. Oral solutions for Treatment A will be prepared and 
stored according to the Method of Preparation Manual and 
Master Batch Records provided separately,” and clarified the 
water given with dosing: “Subjects will drink one container of 
approximately 240 mL of water after each complete dosing 
 
 
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completion.”  
9. Section 10.5, Blood Volume Drawn for Study Assessments, 
Table 4: The following changes were made: 
1. corrected the number of on-study hematology and serum 
chemistry from “6” to “4” timepoints during the study, 
2. biomarker blood samples for total and direct bilirubin and 
creatinine will be processed for serum (instructions 
added/updated in revised Appendix 9),  
3. blood samples for other plasma biomarkers and uremic 
toxins are now detailed in the table (instructions 
added/updated in revised Appendix 9), 
4. a separate sample will now be collected for biomarker 
plasma coproporhyrin I and III (instructions added/updated 
in revised Appendix 9),  
5. the blood collected for most pharmacokinetic samples will 
be reduced,  
6. a separate sample will now be collected for protein binding 
(and footer was updated; instructions added in revised 
Appendix 9), 
7. an additional column was added to the table to identify the 
“Handling Instructions” and relevant appendix, and 
8. the volume per timepoint and sample volume over the 
course of the study were updated. 
10. Appendix 3, Sample Handling Instructions for Midazolam and 
Dabigatran Samples: Updated. 
11. Appendix 4, Sample Handling Instructions for Pitavastatin, 
Atorvastatin (and metabolites), and Rosuvastatin Samples: 
Updated. 
12. Appendix 5, Sample Handling Instructions for Rifampin 
Samples: Updated. 
13. Appendix 6, Sample Handling Instructions for Midazolam and 
Dabigatran Samples: Updated. 
14. Appendix 8: Medications allowed as per protocol and Section 
9.3.1, Prohibitions and Concomitant Therapy: Added: “Proton 
Pump inhibitors: Note:  Proton pump inhibitors must be 
withheld 1 week prior to each dosing and 4 hours post 
dosing.” Corrected to be consistent with medications 
contraindicated for this study to remove “glyburide” from the 
medications allowed as per protocol: “Medications for 
treatment of diabetes such as insulin, sulfonylureas (e.g., 
tolbutamide, glipizide, glyburide, glimepiride, metformin, 
 
 
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saxagliptin, 
sitagliptin), 
meglitinides 
(e.g., 
repaglinide, 
nateglinide), 
thiazolidinediones, 
dipeptidyl 
peptidase-4 
inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs.” 
15. Appendix 9: Specimen Collection Procedures – Plasma and 
Serum Biomarkers: Added or updated instructions for serum 
total and direct bilirubin, serum creatinine, other biomarkers 
and uremic toxins, and for plasma coproporhyrin I and III. 
16. Appendix 10: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine 
Collection (Biomarkers): Added clarification for urine 
collection for pharmacokinetic and biomarker samples and 
updated instructions. 
08Sep2017 
 
Final Protocol 
  
 
 
 
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2 
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AND SPONSOR – SIGNATORIES 
A Study to Assess the Pharmacokinetics of Midazolam, Dabigatran, Pitavastatin, 
Atorvastatin, and Rosuvastatin Administered as Microdoses in Subjects With Varying 
Degrees of Renal Insufficiency in the Presence and Absence of Rifampin 
 
SPONSOR: 
Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. 
(hereafter referred to as the Sponsor or Merck) 
One Merck Drive 
P.O. Box 100 
Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, 08889-0100, USA 
 
SPONSOR’S  
REPRESENTATIVE
: 
 
 
Merck & Co., Inc. 
RY34-A500 
126 East Lincoln Avenue 
Rahway, New Jersey 07065-0900, USA 
Tel.:  
 
E-mail:  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature 
 
Date 
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS 
AND CLINICALS 
 
 
Orlando Clinical Research Center 
5055 South Orange Avenue 
Orlando, Florida 32809-3017, USA 
Tel.:  
 
E-mail:  
 
 
 
 
 
Signature 
 
 
Date 
 
 
 
Clinical Pharmacology of Miami, Inc. 
550 West 84th Street 
Miami, Florida 33014, USA 
Tel.:  
 
E-mail:  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature 
 
Date 
 
 
 
 
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Merck 
 
 
 
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3 
ADDITIONAL KEY CONTACTS FOR THE STUDY 
Protocol Author 
  
Principal Scientist 
Celerion 
100 Alexis-Nihon Boulevard, Suite 360 
Montreal, Quebec H4M 2N8, Canada 
Tel.: 
 
 
E-mail:  
 
 
Certified Clinical Laboratory 
Reliable Research Laboratory 
1525 NW 167th Street Suite 140 
Miami Gardens, Florida 33169, USA 
Contact:  
 
Tel.:  
 
E-mail:  
 
 
Pharmacokinetic and Statistical Analyses 
Celerion 
100 Alexis-Nihon Boulevard, Suite 360 
Montreal, Quebec H4M 2N8, Canada 
Tel.: 
 
 
 
and/or 
 
Celerion  
621 Rose Street 
Lincoln, Nebraska 68502, USA 
Tel.: 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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Merck 
 
 
 
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4 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
1 
PROTOCOL REVISION HISTORY .......................................................................................... 2 
2 
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AND SPONSOR – SIGNATORIES ...................................... 6 
3 
ADDITIONAL KEY CONTACTS FOR THE STUDY ............................................................. 7 
4 
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................. 8 
5 
SYNOPSIS .................................................................................................................................... 12 
6 
STUDY EVENTS FLOW CHART ............................................................................................ 20 
7 
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE ....................................................................................... 23 
7.1 
Background .......................................................................................................................... 23 
7.1.1 
Midazolam ............................................................................................................ 23 
7.1.2 
Dabigatran ............................................................................................................. 24 
7.1.3 
Atorvastatin ........................................................................................................... 25 
7.1.4 
Pitavastatin ............................................................................................................ 26 
7.1.5 
Rosuvastatin .......................................................................................................... 27 
7.1.6 
Rifampin ................................................................................................................ 28 
7.2 
Rationale ............................................................................................................................... 29 
7.2.1 
Rationale for this Study and Study Design ........................................................... 29 
7.2.2 
Rationale for the Dose Selection ........................................................................... 29 
7.2.3 
Rationale for Endpoints......................................................................................... 31 
7.2.4 
Rationale for Planned Exploratory Biomarker Research ...................................... 31 
7.2.5 
Rationale for Future Biomedical Research ........................................................... 31 
8 
STUDY OBJECTIVES, ESTIMATIONS, AND ENDPOINTS ............................................... 32 
8.1 
Objectives and Estimations .................................................................................................. 32 
8.1.1 
Primary .................................................................................................................. 32 
8.1.2 
Secondary Objectives ............................................................................................ 34 
8.1.3 
Exploratory Objectives.......................................................................................... 35 
8.1.4 
Planned Exploratory Biomarker ............................................................................ 35 
8.2 
Analysis Endpoints ............................................................................................................... 35 
9 
INVESTIGATIONAL PLAN ..................................................................................................... 37 
9.1 
Overall Study Design and Plan ............................................................................................. 37 
9.1.1 
Confinement, Return Visit, and Follow-up ........................................................... 38 
9.1.2 
Study Duration ...................................................................................................... 38 
9.2 
Selection of Study Population .............................................................................................. 39 
9.2.1 
Inclusion Criteria ................................................................................................... 39 
9.2.1.1 
Subjects with Renal Impairment ........................................................... 39 
9.2.1.2 
Healthy Subjects .................................................................................... 41 
9.2.2 
Exclusion Criteria ................................................................................................. 42 
 
 
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9.2.2.1 
Subjects with Renal Impairment ........................................................... 42 
9.2.2.2 
Healthy Subjects .................................................................................... 44 
9.2.3 
Subject Withdrawal/Discontinuation Criteria ....................................................... 46 
9.2.3.1 
Withdrawal/Discontinuation .................................................................. 46 
9.2.3.1.1 
Withdrawal from Future Biomedical Research ........................ 47 
9.3 
Study Restrictions ................................................................................................................. 47 
9.3.1 
Prohibitions and Concomitant Therapy................................................................. 47 
9.3.2 
Meals ..................................................................................................................... 49 
9.3.3 
Activity .................................................................................................................. 49 
9.4 
Treatments ............................................................................................................................ 50 
9.4.1 
Treatments Administered ...................................................................................... 50 
9.4.2 
Method of Assigning Subjects to Treatment Groups ............................................ 51 
9.4.3 
Blinding ................................................................................................................. 51 
9.4.4 
Treatment Compliance .......................................................................................... 51 
9.4.5 
Study Design or Procedure Modifications Permitted within Protocol 
Parameters ............................................................................................................. 51 
10 STUDY PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................. 52 
10.1 Safety Assessment ................................................................................................................ 52 
10.1.1 
Screening ............................................................................................................... 52 
10.1.2 
Physical Examination ............................................................................................ 52 
10.1.3 
Vital Signs ............................................................................................................. 52 
10.1.4 
ECG Monitoring ................................................................................................... 53 
10.1.5 
Pulse Oximetry ...................................................................................................... 53 
10.1.6 
Rescue Medication ................................................................................................ 53 
10.1.7 
Clinical Laboratory Tests ...................................................................................... 54 
10.1.8 
Assessing and Recording Adverse Events ............................................................ 55 
10.1.8.1 Definition of an Overdose for This Protocol and Reporting of 
Overdose to the Sponsor ........................................................................ 55 
10.1.8.2 Reporting of Pregnancy and Lactation to the Sponsor .......................... 56 
10.1.8.3 Immediate Reporting of Adverse Events............................................... 56 
10.1.8.3.1 
Serious Adverse Events ............................................................ 56 
10.1.8.3.2 
Events of Clinical Interest ........................................................ 58 
10.1.8.4 Evaluating Adverse Events .................................................................... 58 
10.1.8.5 Sponsor Responsibility for Reporting Adverse Events ......................... 61 
10.2 Pharmacokinetic and Biomarker Assessments ..................................................................... 61 
10.2.1 
Blood Sampling and Processing ............................................................................ 61 
10.2.2 
Urine Collection .................................................................................................... 61 
10.3 Planned Genetic Analysis Sample Collection ...................................................................... 62 
10.4 Future Biomedical Research Samples .................................................................................. 62 
10.5 Blood Volume Drawn for Study Assessments ..................................................................... 63 
 
 
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11 DATA ANALYSIS ....................................................................................................................... 65 
11.1 Pharmacokinetic Parameters ................................................................................................ 65 
11.1.1 
Plasma ................................................................................................................... 65 
11.1.2 
Urine...................................................................................................................... 65 
11.2 Statistical Methods ............................................................................................................... 66 
11.2.1 
Determination of Sample Size .............................................................................. 66 
11.2.2 
Subjects to Analyze ............................................................................................... 68 
11.2.3 
Descriptive Statistics ............................................................................................. 69 
11.2.4 
Analysis Overview ................................................................................................ 69 
11.2.4.1 Primary Analyses................................................................................... 69 
11.2.4.2 Secondary Analyses............................................................................... 70 
11.2.4.3 Exploratory Analyses for Biomarkers ................................................... 71 
11.3 Safety Evaluation.................................................................................................................. 71 
12 STUDY ADMINISTRATION ..................................................................................................... 72 
12.1 Ethics .................................................................................................................................... 72 
12.1.1 
Institutional Review Board ................................................................................... 72 
12.1.2 
Ethical Conduct of the Study ................................................................................ 72 
12.1.3 
Subject Information and Consent .......................................................................... 72 
12.1.4 
Consent and Collection of Specimens for Future Biomedical Research ............... 72 
12.2 Termination of the Study ...................................................................................................... 73 
12.2.1 
Clinical Criteria for Early Trial Termination ........................................................ 73 
12.3 Data Quality Assurance ........................................................................................................ 73 
12.4 Data Management ................................................................................................................. 73 
12.5 Direct Access to Source Data/Documents ............................................................................ 73 
12.6 Drug Supplies, Packaging and Labeling ............................................................................... 74 
12.7 Data Handling and Record Keeping ..................................................................................... 74 
12.8 Report Format ....................................................................................................................... 74 
12.9 Compliance with Law, Audit, and Debarment ..................................................................... 74 
12.10 Publication Policy ................................................................................................................. 76 
12.11 Privacy Notice ...................................................................................................................... 76 
13 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................. 77 
 
LIST OF APPENDICES 
Appendix 1: Merck* Code of Conduct for Clinical Trials .......................................................... 79 
Appendix 2: Collection and Management of Specimens for Future Biomedical Research ........ 83 
Appendix 3: Sample Handling Instructions for Midazolam and Dabigatran Samples ................ 88 
Appendix 4: Sample Handling Instructions for Pitavastatin, Atorvastatin (and 
metabolites), and Rosuvastatin Samples ................................................................ 91 
 
 
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Appendix 5: Sample Handling Instructions for Rifampin Samples ............................................ 94 
Appendix 6: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine Collection (Dabigatran and 
Rosuvastatin) .......................................................................................................... 96 
Appendix 7: PAXgeneTM Blood for DNA Analysis .................................................................... 99 
Appendix 8: Prohibited and Allowed Medications for Subjects with RI .................................. 103 
Appendix 9: Specimen Collection Procedure – Plasma and Serum Biomarkers ...................... 105 
Appendix 10: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine Collection (Biomarkers) ....................... 111 
 
LIST OF TABLES 
Table 1: 
Study Microdose Cocktail Component Doses: ....................................................... 31 
Table 2: 
Study Microdose Cocktail Component Doses ........................................................ 50 
Table 3: 
Evaluating Adverse Events..................................................................................... 59 
Table 4: 
Blood Volume Drawn During the Study ................................................................ 63 
Table 5: 
Power Calculations for True Fold Increases by Within Subject CV ...................... 68 
 
 
 
 
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5 
SYNOPSIS 
Compound: 
Midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, and 
rifampin 
Clinical Indication: 
N/A 
Study Phase and Type: Phase I – Other Clinical Study Reports 
Study Objectives and 
Estimation: 
Primary (Period 1): 
Objective 1:  To characterize the plasma pharmacokinetic profiles 
of midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin (and its metabolite, 
pitavastatin lactone), atorvastatin (and its metabolites, ortho-
hydroxyatorvastatin 
[2-OH 
atorvastatin] 
and 
para-
hydroxyatorvastatin 
[4-OH 
atorvastatin]), 
and 
rosuvastatin 
following a single oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail 
in healthy subjects, in subjects with mild, moderate, severe (not on 
dialysis) renal impairment, and in subjects with end-stage renal 
disease (ESRD; on dialysis). 
Estimation 1:  The plasma pharmacokinetic parameters (e.g., 
AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and apparent 
terminal t½) of midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin (and its 
metabolite, pitavastatin lactone), atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 
2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin), and rosuvastatin 
following a single oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail 
will be estimated in healthy subjects, in subjects with mild, 
moderate, severe (not on dialysis) renal impairment, and in subjects 
with ESRD (on dialysis). 
Primary Objective for Midazolam: 
Objective 2:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of midazolam administered as 
part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately 
(except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 2:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of midazolam following a single 
oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail containing 
midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and 
rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated 
and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of midazolam following a 
single oral dose administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in 
each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., 
healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal 
impairment).  
 
 
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Primary Objective for Dabigatran: 
Objective 3:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of dabigatran administered as 
part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately 
(except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 3:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of dabigatran following a single 
oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail containing  
midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and 
rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated 
and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of dabigatran following a 
single oral dose administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in 
each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., 
healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal 
impairment).  
Primary Objective for Pitavastatin: 
Objective 4:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of pitavastatin (and its 
metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) administered as part of a microdose 
cocktail in each subject population separately (except for ESRD 
subjects). 
Estimation 4:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of pitavastatin (and its metabolite 
pitavastatin lactone) following a single oral dose administration of a 
microdosecocktail containing midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, 
pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of 
rifampin will be estimated and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of 
pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) following a 
single dose administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., 
healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal 
impairment).  
Primary Objective for Atorvastatin: 
Objective 5:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin (and its 
metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin) administered 
as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately 
(except for ESRD subjects).  
Estimation 5:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 
2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin) following a single oral 
dose administration of a microdose cocktail containing midazolam, 
dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin with 
a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated and compared to the 
 
 
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plasma AUC0-∞ of atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH 
atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin) following a single oral dose 
administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy 
subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal 
impairment).  
Primary Objective for Rosuvastatin: 
Objective 6:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single-dose pharmacokinetics of rosuvastatin administered as 
part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately 
(except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 6:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of rosuvastatin following a single 
oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail containing 
midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and 
rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated 
and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of rosuvastatin following a 
single oral dose administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in 
each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., 
healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal 
impairment). 
Secondary Objectives: 
Objective 1:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single oral dose pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, 
Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, and Vz/F) of 
midazolam administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 2:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single oral dose pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, 
Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, and Vz/F) of 
dabigatran administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 3:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single oral dose pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, 
Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, and Vz/F) of 
pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) when 
pitavastatin is administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 4:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single dose pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, 
C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, and Vz/F) of atorvastatin 
(and its metabolites, ortho-hydroxyatorvastatin [2-OH atorvastatin] 
and 
para-hydroxyatorvastatin 
[4-OH 
atorvastatin]) 
when 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 15 
CONFIDENTIAL 
atorvastatin is administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 5:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin 
on the single oral dose pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, 
Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, and Vz/F) of 
rosuvastatin administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each 
subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 6:  To compare the magnitude of the drug-drug 
interaction (DDI) between rifampin and each of the 5 substrates in 
the microdose cocktail between healthy subjects and each category 
of RI subjects (mild, moderate, severe RI). 
Objective 7:  To estimate the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters 
(e.g., AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and 
apparent terminal t½) of dabigatran, atorvastatin (and its 
metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin), pitavastatin 
(and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone), rosuvastatin, and 
midazolam following a single oral dose administration of a 
microdose cocktail in ESRD subjects on dialysis when the 
microdose cocktail is administered at different times relative to 
dialysis. 
Objective 8:  To estimate the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters 
(e.g., AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and 
apparent terminal t½) of rifampin following a single oral dose 
administration with a single oral dose of a microdose cocktail in 
each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Exploratory Objectives: 
Objective 1:  To evaluate plasma, serum, and urinary biomarkers to 
assess the impact of renal impairment on functions such as organic 
anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B inhibition. 
Objective 2:  To evaluate the urinary pharmacokinetics (e.g., CLr, 
Ae0-24, and fe) of dabigatran and rosuvastatin in each population. 
Planned Exploratory Biomarker:  
Objective:  To explore the relationship between genetic variation 
and response to the treatment(s) administered, and mechanisms of 
disease. Variation across the human genome may be analyzed for 
association with clinical data collected in this study. 
Summary of Study 
Design: 
This is an open label, 2-period, fixed sequence study in 24 RI 
subjects (6 subjects with mild renal impairment; 6 subjects with 
moderate renal impairment; 6 subjects with severe renal impairment 
who are not on dialysis; 6 ESRD subjects), and 6 healthy control 
subjects. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 16 
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Conduct of the mild RI cohort may be performed, as determined by 
the Sponsor, following conduct completion and review of data from 
the moderate and severe RI cohorts and the healthy cohort.  
Screening of subjects will occur within 28 days prior to the first 
dosing. 
Assignment to a renal function group will be as follows: 
Group 
N 
eGFR (mL/min/1.73m2) or CLcr 
(mL/min)* 
ESRD requiring 
hemodialysis 
6 
Requiring hemodialysis 
Severe impairment 
6 
< 30 not on hemodialysis** 
Moderate impairment 
6 
30 – < 60 *** 
Mild impairment 
6 
60 - < 90 
Healthy control 
6 
≥ 90 **** 
* Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on 
Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation at 
screening. Baseline eGFR will be obtained twice during the 
screening period, and the mean of the two values will be used for 
group assignment. The second baseline eGFR sample may be 
obtained at the time of check-in in Period 1. Creatinine clearance 
(CLcr) by Cockcroft-Gault equation will be used for healthy 
control assignment (normal renal function). 
** Reasonable efforts will be made to enroll at least 2 subjects 
with eGFR values of < 20 mL/min/1.73m2. 
*** Reasonable efforts will be made to ensure a broad 
representation 
across 
the 
range 
of 
eGFR 
values 
of 
30 - < 60 mL/min/1.73m2. 
**** For healthy subjects a creatinine clearance computed over a 
24 hour urine collection for subjects that do not qualify with 
≥ 90 mL/min CLcr may be done for confirmation purposes. 
In Period 1, subjects will receive Treatment A, a single oral dose of 
the microdose cocktail (i.e., midazolam oral solution, dabigatran 
etexilate and pitavastatin oral solution, atorvastatin and rosuvastatin 
oral solution) on Day 1 followed by pharmacokinetic sampling for 
72 hours. The microdose cocktail will be dosed approximately 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 17 
CONFIDENTIAL 
24 hours prior to the start of dialysis for ESRD subjects. 
In Period 2, subjects (except ESRD subjects) will receive Treatment 
B, a single oral dose of rifampin capsules with a single oral dose of 
the microdose cocktail, coadministered on Day 1. 
In Period 2, ESRD subjects will receive only Treatment A, a single 
oral dose of the microdose cocktail on Day 1. The microdose 
cocktail will be dosed as soon as possible within 24 hours after the 
completion of dialysis. 
In each period, pharmacokinetic samples for plasma midazolam, 
dabigatran (as free dabigatran), pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, 
atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin 
will be collected for up to 72 hours following dosing. 
Pharmacokinetic samples for plasma rifampin will be collected for 
up to 24 hours following dosing in Period 2 only from all subjects 
except for ESRD subjects. 
In each period, urine samples will be collected for 24 hours 
postdose, if possible, to assess dabigatran and rosuvastatin 
pharmacokinetics and blood and urine samples will be collected for 
24 hours postdose for measurement of biomarker concentrations. 
For subjects with renal impairment, urine samples will be collected 
whenever possible, as they may not be able to produce urine at each 
interval. For subjects who are anuric, urine samples will not be 
collected. 
There will be at least 14 days washout between dosing in Period 1 
and dosing in Period 2. 
The clinic will attempt to contact subjects (including subjects who 
terminate the study early) using their standard procedures 
approximately 14 days after the last study drug administration to 
determine if any adverse events have occurred since the last visit. 
Blinding: 
This is an open-label study. 
Number of Subjects: 
Twenty-four (24) RI subjects between 18 and 78 years of age 
(inclusive) will be enrolled; 6 subjects with mild renal impairment; 
6 subjects with moderate renal impairment; 6 subjects with severe 
renal impairment who are not on dialysis; and 6 subjects with 
severe renal impairment who are on dialysis or with ESRD on 
dialysis. A cohort of 6 healthy control subjects will also be enrolled.  
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 18 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Dosage, Dosage Form, 
Route, and Dose 
Regimen: 
Subjects will receive the following treatments in a fixed-sequence: 
Treatment A (Period 1):  Single oral dose of the microdose 
cocktail at Hour 0 on Day 1 following an overnight fast. The 
microdose cocktail will contain: 
• 10 μg midazolam (1 mL of 10 μg/mL oral solution), 
administered orally as midazolam hydrochloride (HCl); 
• 375/10 μg dabigatran etexilate and pitavastatin (1 mL of 
375/10 μg/mL oral solution), administered as dabigatran 
etexilate mesylate and pitavastatin calcium; and 
• 100/50 μg atorvastatin and rosuvastatin (2 mL of 50/25 
μg/mL oral solution, dosed as 2 x 1 mL dosing syringes), 
administered as atorvastatin calcium trihydrate and 
rosuvastatin calcium. 
Each oral solution will be administered using 1 mL amber 
dosing syringes.  
Treatment B (Period 2):  600 mg (2 x 300 mg capsules) single 
oral dose rifampin coadministered with a single oral dose 
microdose cocktail (as described in Treatment A) at Hour 0 on Day 
1 following an overnight fast.  
NOTE: Subjects with ESRD will not receive rifampin in Period 2; 
they will receive Treatment A in Period 2, instead of Treatment B. 
Key Assessments: 
Pharmacokinetics: 
The following plasma pharmacokinetic parameters will be 
calculated for all plasma analytes (rifampin [Period 2 only], 
midazolam, 
dabigatran, 
pitavastatin, 
pitavastatin 
lactone, 
atorvastatin, 
4-OH 
atorvastatin, 
2-OH 
atorvastatin, 
and 
rosuvastatin) on Day 1 of each treatment period, as appropriate:  
AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent 
terminal t½, CL/F (parent only), and Vz/F (parent only).  
The following urine pharmacokinetic parameters may also be 
calculated for rosuvastatin and dabigatran: CLr, Ae0-24, and fe. 
Protein binding (plasma) assays will be performed on predose 
samples from Period 1. 
Non-model based descriptive statistics of pharmacokinetic 
parameters will be provided by subject group for all plasma 
analytes (midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, 
atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, 
and rifampin,) and urine analytes (dabigatran and rosuvastatin 
only). Separate ANOVA models will be constructed for each 
substrate in the microdose cocktail. AUC0-∞ will be compared 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 19 
CONFIDENTIAL 
between the different groups (except subjects with ESRD) by 
constructing the appropriate contrasts from the model and 
computing the GMRs and corresponding 95% confidence intervals. 
Similar 
analyses 
will 
be 
conducted 
for 
the 
following 
pharmacokinetic parameters: AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, and 
C24. 
Similar statistical analyses describe above will be used to compare 
Period 1 and Period 2 pharmacokinetic parameters of subjects with 
ESRD. 
Safety: 
Safety will be monitored through physical examination, vital signs, 
pulse oximetry, 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs), adverse events 
and clinical laboratory tests. Summary statistics for the laboratory 
safety tests, 12-lead ECGs, and/or vital signs may be computed and 
provided, as deemed clinically appropriate. 
Biomarkers: 
The following biomarkers and also uremic toxins will be measured 
to assess OATP1B inhibition: serum total/direct bilirubin, plasma 
coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, 3-carboxy-
4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropanoic 
acid 
(CMPF), 
glycodeochycholate-sulfate (GDCA-S), glycochenodeoxycholate-
sulfate 
(GCDCA-S), 
deoxycholate-sulfate 
(DCA-S), 
Taurochenodeoxycholate-sulfate 
(TCDC-S), 
and 
Taurodeoxycholate-sulfate (TCDA-S) concentrations and urine 
coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and CMPF 
concentrations. 
To evaluate the concentration-time effects of perpetrator-mediated 
inhibition of OATP1B, the following parameters will be calculated 
for the biomarkers and uremic toxins on Day 1 following 
Treatments A and B:  AUC0-last, Cmax, Tmax for plasma 
parameters, and Ae0-24 and fe for urine parameters. Measurements 
to assess renal clearance will be performed after a 24-hour interval 
urine collection.   
A predose sample will also include measurement of serum 
creatinine (central lab) and may also be used to measure uremic 
toxins/biomarkers (exploratory). 
The exploratory objectives will be evaluated using the same 
statistical models that were used to address the primary objectives. 
Although no formal hypotheses will be tested, these models will be 
used to estimate the between-group differences amongst each 
substrate/perpetrator combination within a substrate. 
 
 
 
04VMX7

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 Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
 
 
 Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
 
Page 20 
CONFIDENTIAL 
6 
STUDY EVENTS FLOW CHART 
Study Procedures a 
Screening b 
Study Days in Periods 1 (Treatment A) and 2 (Treatment B) c  
FU d 
Days → 
 
-2 or -1  
1 
2 
3 
4 
 
Hours → 
 
(C-I) e 
P 
0 
0.25 
0.5 
1 
1.5 
2 
3 
4 
6 
8 
12 
16 f 
24 
32 
48 
72 
 
Administrative Procedures 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Informed Consent 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Informed Consent for Future Biomedical Research 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria 
X 
X g 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Medical History 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Safety Evaluations 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Full Physical Examination h 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X i 
 
Height 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weight 
X 
X g 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assessment of Renal Function j 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12-Lead Electrocardiogram 
X 
 
X k 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X i 
 
Vital Signs (heart rate, blood pressure, & respiratory 
rate) 
X 
 
X k 
 
 
 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X i 
 
Vital Signs (temperature only) 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pulse Oximetry l 
X 
 
X 
 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hematology, Serum Chemistry m, and Urinalysis 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X i 
 
Serum Pregnancy Test (female subjects only) 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Serum FSH (postmenopausal females only) 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Urine or Saliva Drug Screen 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Urine or Breath Alcohol Screen 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
HIV/Hepatitis Screen 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adverse Events Monitoring 
X 
X 
Concomitant Medication Monitoring 
X 
 
Study Drug Administration / Pharmacokinetics 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Microdose Cocktail Administration (P1 & P2) 
 
 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rifampin Administration (P2) n 
 
 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Blood for Microdose Pharmacokinetics (P1 & P2) o 
 
 
X 
 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
Blood for Protein Binding (P1) 
 
 
X g 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Blood for Rifampin Pharmacokinetics (P2) n 
 
 
X 
 
 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
Blood for Serum Total and Direct Bilirubin (P1 & P2) 
(Central Lab) 
 
 
X 
 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
04VMX7

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 Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
 
 
 Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
 
Page 21 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Study Procedures a 
Screening b 
Study Days in Periods 1 (Treatment A) and 2 (Treatment B) c  
FU d 
Days → 
 
-2 or -1  
1 
2 
3 
4 
 
Hours → 
 
(C-I) e 
P 
0 
0.25 
0.5 
1 
1.5 
2 
3 
4 
6 
8 
12 
16 f 
24 
32 
48 
72 
 
Blood for Serum Creatinine (P1 & P2) (Central Lab) 
 
 
X 
 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
Blood for other Biomarkers (P1 & P2) p 
 
 
X q 
 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
Urine Collection for Pharmacokinetics r, s 
 
 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
Urine Collection for Biomarkers s, t 
 
 
X 
X 
 
 
 
 
Other Procedures 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Blood for Genetic Analysis u 
 
 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Confinement in the CRU 
 
X 
 
Visit  
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
a. 
For details on Procedures, refer to Section 10 and/or corresponding appendices. 
b. Within 28 days prior to the first study drug administration. 
c. 
Each dose will be separated by a washout of at least 14 days. 
d. The clinic will attempt to contact subjects (including subjects who terminate the study early) using their standard procedures approximately 14 days after the 
last study drug administration to determine if any adverse events have occurred since the last visit.  
e. 
Subjects will be admitted to the CRU on Day -2 (Orlando clinical site) or Day -1 (Miami clinical site), at the time indicated by the CRU. 
f. 
The 16-hour time point following dosing on Day 1 will be either on Day 1 or Day 2, depending on the time of dosing on Day 1. 
g. To be performed in Period 1 only. 
h. A symptom-driven physical examination may be performed at other times, at the Investigator’s discretion. 
i. 
To be performed on Day 4 or prior to early termination from the study. 
j. 
Assessment of renal function will be performed using MDRD equation; prior to Period 1, baseline eGFR will be obtained twice (at least 48 hours apart as part 
of subject screening) and averaged. The second baseline eGFR sample may be obtained at the time of check-in in Period 1. CLcr by Cockcroft-Gault equation 
will be used for healthy control assignment (normal renal function). 
k. To be performed within 24 hours prior to dosing. 
l. 
Pulse oximetry: oxygen levels and heart rate readings will be performed at screening and prior to dosing (baseline) and will be monitored continuously with a 
pulse oximeter for approximately 6 hours postdose (with the exception of restroom use), with readings taken at approximately the scheduled time points. 
m. Samples for serum chemistry will be obtained following a fast of at least 8 hours; however, in case of dropouts or rechecks, subjects may not have fasted for 
 
 
04VMX7

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 Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
 
 
 Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
 
Page 22 
CONFIDENTIAL 
8 hours before the serum chemistry sample is taken. 
n. Rifampin administration and pharmacokinetic collection to be performed in Period 2 only. Subjects with ESRD will not receive rifampin. 
o. Samples collected for pharmacokinetic measurements of plasma analytes (midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 4-OH 
atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin). 
p. Samples collected for the measurement of the following plasma biomarkers and uremic toxins:  coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, 
CMPF, GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and TCDA-S. Additional biomarkers/uremic toxins may also be measured.  
q. Predose samples may also be used to measure uremic toxins/biomarkers (exploratory). 
r. 
Urine collection for pharmacokinetic measurements of dabigatran and rosuvastatin. 
s. 
Urine collection intervals are: predose (spot collection), 0 - 4 hours, 4 - 8 hours, 8 – 12 hours, and 12 - 24 hours post-dose. For subjects with renal 
impairment, urine samples will be collected whenever possible, as they may not be able to produce urine at each interval. Note: For subjects who are anuric, 
urine samples will not be collected.  
t. 
Samples collected for the measurement of the following biomarkers and uremic toxins in urine:  coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF. Additional biomarkers/uremic toxins may also be measured. 
u. This sample should be drawn for planned analysis of the association between genetic variants in DNA and drug response. This sample will not be collected at 
the site if there is either a local law or regulation prohibiting collection, or if the IRB/IEC does not approve the collection of the sample for these purposes. If 
the sample is collected, leftover extracted DNA will be stored for future biomedical research if the subject signs the FBR consent. If the planned genetic 
analysis is not approved, but FBR is approved and consent is given, this sample will be collected for the purpose of FBR. 
Abbreviations:  C-I = Check-in, CLcr = Creatinine clearance, CMPF = 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropanoic acid, CRU = Clinical research unit, 
DCA-S = Deoxycholate-sulfate, DNA = Deoxyribonucleic acid, eGFR = Estimated glomerular filtration rate, ESRD = End-stage renal disease, FBR = Future 
biomarker research, FSH = Follicle-stimulating hormone, FU = Follow-Up, GCDCA-S = Glycochenodeoxycholate-sulfate, GDCA-S = Glycodeochycholate-
sulfate, HIV = Human immunodeficiency virus, IRB/IEC = Institutional Research Board/Independent Ethics Committee, MDRD = Modification of Diet in Renal 
Disease, OH = Hydroxy, P = Predose, P1 = Period 1, P2 = Period 2, TCDA-S = Taurodeoxycholate-sulfate, TCDC-S = Taurochenodeoxycholate-sulfate. 
 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 23 
CONFIDENTIAL 
7 
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE 
7.1 
Background 
Renal impairment is a well-recognized influence on drug clearance. Both chronic renal 
failure (CRF) and ESRD have been shown to not only reduce the systemic clearance of drugs 
but also impact protein and tissue binding. 1 While this is to be anticipated with drugs 
typically eliminated renally, it is also appreciated that CRF can modify non-renal disposition, 
including those typically ‘handled’ hepatically. Over the years, data has emerged suggesting 
the influence of renal failure on the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) family, but also on 
transporter function, including hepatic and renal uptake transporters. Alterations in these 
transporters as well as drug metabolism pathways may have a meaningful impact on 
predictions and decision-making in drug development. The underlying mechanisms 
responsible for alterations in drug disposition (transporter and enzyme activity) in the setting 
of renal failure remain poorly characterized. While plausible through direct inhibition or 
indirect mediation, tighter predictions remain critical in patients with CRF and ESRD. 
Current predictive physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling in this setting 
with an array of pathways and substrates remains rudimentary and will be strengthened 
through clinical investigation and subsequent iterative modeling. 
The current study takes advantage of a Merck-characterized cocktail 2 of substrates and now 
applying them with greater finesse in disease populations. While the initial intent may be to 
strengthen and guide predictions in the setting of renal impairment, it is the ultimate desire to 
reduce the conduct of dedicated studies in this more at-risk and potentially frail population. 
The present study will probe three pathways of disposition: CYP3A using midazolam, 
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) using dabigatran, OATP1B1/1B3 using rosuvastatin, pitavastatin and 
atorvastatin, and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) using rosuvastatin. The relative 
contribution of renal impairment to substrate disposition will be examined across the 
spectrum of renal impairment (mild, moderate, severe, and ESRD). This will provide a 
holistic framework to better appreciate the influencing of renal clearance of such pathways 
with comparison to normal healthy kidney function (glomeluar filtration rate [GFR] ≥ 90 
mL/min). Rifampin, a designated probe inhibitor of OATP1B1/1B3 will be included to 
examine hepatic uptake in the setting of renal impairment across the spectrum of renal 
function.  
Recently, there is an increased interest in the identification of selective endogenous 
biomarkers which are substrates of OATP1B and could be used early in clinical development 
to assess the potential of drug candidates to inhibit these transporters. In the current study, 
bilirubin, conjugated bilirubins, and coproporhyrins I and III will be measured as candidate 
biomarkers in pharmacokinetic samples from patients and healthy subjects treated with 
rifampin. 
7.1.1 Midazolam 
Midazolam, a short acting benzodiazepine, is a reversible, non-selective agonist of 
γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptors in the central nervous system. Midazolam is 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 24 
CONFIDENTIAL 
routinely used in clinical medicine as a sedative and is specifically indicated for pediatric 
pre-procedural sedation. It has been used in the United States as a parenteral sedative and as 
an oral syrup formulation for pediatric use. Midazolam provides a safe and effective sedation 
and anxiolysis prior to surgical procedures that require anesthesia as well as before other 
procedures that require sedation but may not require anesthesia. The sedative effects of 
midazolam are dependent on the dose administered, the route of administration, and the 
presence or absence of other medications. Onset time of sedative effects after oral 
administration is approximately 10-20 minutes depending on the dose administered. 
Sedation after intravenous injection is more rapid and is usually achieved within 5 minutes.  
Rare side effects (occurring in less than 1% of subjects) have been reported following 
administration of midazolam and include partial or complete impairment of recall, episodes 
of oxygen desaturation, respiratory depression, apnea, and airway obstruction.3 After oral 
administration, midazolam is almost completely absorbed with 90% of a radiolabeled dose 
excreted in the urine within 24 hours; less than 10% is excreted in the feces within 5 days. 
The mean Tmax values across dose groups (0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/kg) range from 0.17 to 
2.65 hours. Midazolam exhibits linear pharmacokinetics between oral doses of 0.25 to 
1.0 mg/kg (up to a maximum dose of 40 mg).3 
Midazolam undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism by hepatic and gastrointestinal 
CYP3A4 and is rapidly converted to its major metabolite, 1’-hydroxymidazolam, which 
subsequently undergoes conjugation. Because midazolam is primarily metabolized by 
CYP3A4, it is subject to pharmacokinetic interactions with inhibitors and inducers of this 
isozyme. Decreases in plasma midazolam concentrations after administration of known 
inducers of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism all occur to a similar extent: carbamazepine 
(94%), phenytoin (94%) and rifampin (96%).3 
7.1.2 Dabigatran 
Dabigatran etexilate is a low-molecular-weight prodrug, without pharmacological activity, 
that is converted to its active form, dabigatran, which is also subject to conjugation forming 
pharmacologically active acyl glucuronides. Dabigatran and its acyl glucuronides are potent, 
competitive, reversible direct thrombin inhibitors indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and 
systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Because thrombin (serine 
protease) enables the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin during the coagulation cascade, its 
inhibition prevents the development of a thrombus. Both free and clot-bound thrombin, and 
thrombin-induced platelet aggregation are inhibited by the active moieties. 4, 5 
Following oral administration, dabigatran etexilate is rapidly absorbed and quickly and 
completely converted by esterase-catalyzed hydrolysis to dabigatran in the gut, plasma and 
liver. Peak plasma concentrations of dabigatran occur 1-2 hours after drug administration.  
Bioconversion of dabigatran etexilate is completed in the liver, and approximately 20% is 
conjugated with glucuronic acid to pharmacologically active acyl glucuronides and excreted 
in the bile. Due to its isomerisation, several positional dabigatran glucuronides isomers occur 
in plasma. The dabigatran glucuronide isomers represent about 20% of the total dabigatran 
after oral dosing (comparison of the AUC values). The pro-drug, dabigatran etexilate, is not 
 
 
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metabolized by the CYP enzymes but is a substrate of the efflux transporter P-gp. Dabigatran 
is not a substrate of P-gp. 4, 5, 6 
The major route of dabigatran elimination is via kidneys. Following intravenous 
administration of [14C]-labeled dabigatran, a mean of 85% of the administered dose was 
recovered in urine and 6% in feces over 168 h postdose. Following oral administration of 
[14C]-labeled dabigatran etexilate, a mean of 7% of the administered dose was recovered in 
urine and 86% in feces over 168 h postdose, most likely due to unabsorbed dabigatran 
etexilate. Renal clearance represented 80% of total dabigatran clearance. 6 
No dose adjustment of dabigatran is recommended in patients with mild or moderate renal 
impairment. A reduced dose of dabigatran (75 mg twice a day [BID] vs. 150 mg BID) is 
recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 15-30 mL/min). Dosing 
recommendations for patients with CrCl <15 mL/min or on dialysis are not provided in the 
label. 
7.1.3 Atorvastatin 
Atorvastatin 
is 
a 
synthetic 
lipid-lowering 
agent 
that 
inhibits 
3-hydroxy-3-
methylglutarylcoenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol 
biosynthesis.  This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonic acid, a 
precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. 
Atorvastatin calcium is indicated as an adjunct to diet to: 
• 
Reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, revascularization procedures, 
and angina in patients without coronary heart disease (CHD), but with multiple risk 
factors; 
• 
Reduce the risk of MI and stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes without CHD, but 
with multiple risk factors. 
• 
Reduce the risk of non-fatal MI, fatal and non-fatal stroke, revascularization 
procedures, hospitalization for coronary heart failure (CHF), and angina in patients 
with CHD. 
• 
Reduce elevated total cholesterol (total-C), low-density cholesterol (LDL-C), 
apolipoprotein B (apo B), and triglyceride (TG) levels and increase high-density 
cholesterol (HDL-C) in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia (heterozygous 
familial and nonfamilial) and mixed dyslipidemia. 
• 
Reduce elevated TG in patients with hypertriglyceridemia and primary 
dysbetalipoproteinemia. 
• 
Reduce 
total-C 
and 
LDL-C 
in 
patients 
with 
homozygous 
familial 
hypercholesterolemia. 
 
 
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• 
Reduce elevated total-C, LDL-C, and apo B levels in boys and postmenarchal girls, 
10 to 17 years of age, with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia after failing 
an adequate trial of diet therapy.   
Dosing is usually initiated with 10 mg administered daily and may be increased up to 80 mg 
per day, if necessary. Prior to beginning the treatment, patients should be placed on a 
standard cholesterol-lowering diet. 7 
Atorvastatin is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, within 1 hour. Atorvastatin has an 
absolute bioavailability of approximately 14% and is approximately 98% bound to plasma 
protein. Atorvastatin is extensively metabolized in the gut wall and liver with 2 main 
metabolites: ortho-hydroxyatorvastatin and para-hydroxyatorvastatin. These metabolites have 
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity equal to that of atorvastatin; and approximately 70% 
of atorvastatin’s pharmacological activity is attributed to active metabolites. Atorvastatin is 
metabolized in part by CYP3A4 enzymes and is transported into the liver via OATP1B1 
transporters. 7, 8 
Atorvastatin’s bioavailability is reduced when the drug is administered with food, or when it 
is given in the evening rather than the morning. However, as LDL-C reduction is similar 
under fed and fasted conditions, and after morning or evening administration, atorvastatin 
may be administered without regard to meals or time of day. Atorvastatin and its metabolites 
are excreted mainly in the bile. Less than 2% of an oral dose of atorvastatin is excreted in the 
urine. The pharmacokinetic half-life of atorvastatin is approximately 14 hours while the 
pharmacodynamic half-life of HMG-CoA reductase inhibition is reported to be about 20 to 
30 hours. This pharmacodynamic effect persists for longer than the half-life of atorvastatin in 
plasma, due to the longer half-life of the active metabolites. 7 
Renal disease has no influence on the plasma concentrations or LDL-C reduction of 
atorvastatin; thus, dose adjustment in patients with renal dysfunction is not necessary. While 
studies have not been conducted in patients with ESRD, hemodialysis is not expected to 
significantly enhance clearance of atorvastatin since the drug is extensively bound to plasma 
proteins. 
7.1.4 Pitavastatin 
Pitavastatin is a synthetic lipid-lowering agent which competitively inhibits HMG-CoA 
reductase. Pitavastatin is indicated as an adjunct therapy to diet to reduce elevated total-C, 
LDL-C, apo B, and TG concentrations and to increase HDL-C levels in patients with primary 
hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia. The dose ranges from 1 to 4 mg daily without regards 
to meal. Following 4 weeks of initiation of therapy, lipids levels should be evaluated in order 
to adjust if needed the dosage. 9 
Pitavastatin is absorbed at about 1 hour in the small intestine and has an absolute 
bioavailability of an oral solution is approximately 51%. Pitavastatin is approximately 99% 
bound to plasma protein, mainly albumin and alpha 1-glycoportein. Pitavastatin is 
transported in the liver mainly by OATP1B1 transporters where it is metabolized by 
 
 
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glucuronidation via UGTs (UGT1A3 and UGT2B7) to pitavastatin lactone. Pitavastatin is 
minimally metabolized by CYP enzymes; CYP2C9 and to a lesser extent CYP2C8. 8, 9 
Administering pitavastatin with a high fat meal decreases Cmax by 43% but does not affect 
the extent of exposure. Pitavastatin is mainly excreted unchanged; about 15% is eliminated in 
urine and about 79% in feces. 8, 9 
In patients with moderate renal impairment (glomerular filtration rate of 30 to 
<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and end stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis, pitavastatin 
AUC0-∞ is 79 and 86% higher than those of healthy subjects, respectively, while pitavastatin 
Cmax is 60 and 40% higher than those of healthy subjects, respectively. Patients received 
hemodialysis immediately before pitavastatin dosing and did not undergo hemodialysis 
during the pharmacokinetic study. Hemodialysis patients have 33 and 36% increases in the 
mean unbound fraction of pitavastatin as compared to healthy subjects and patients with 
moderate renal impairment, respectively. The effect of mild and severe renal impairment on 
pitavastatin exposure is unknown. 
7.1.5 Rosuvastatin 
Rosuvastatin, a synthetic lipid-lowering agent, is a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. As a 
selective and competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, rosuvastatin blocks the 
formation of mevalonate, a precursor of cholesterol, thus reducing total C, LDL-C and TG 
and increasing HDL-C concentrations in plasma. 10, 11 
Rosuvastatin is indicated as an adjunct to diet in adult patients: 
• 
with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia, to reduce elevated total-C, 
LDL-C, ApoB, non-HDL-C, and TG levels, and to increase HDL-C. 
• 
with hypertriglyceridemia. 
• 
with primary dysbetalipoproteinemia (Type III hyperlipoproteinemia). 
• 
with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia to reduce LDL-C, total-C, and 
ApoB. 
• 
with atherosclerosis as part of a treatment strategy to slow the progression of the 
disease by lowering total-C and LDL-C. 
• 
without clinically evident coronary heart disease, but with multiple risk factors for 
myocardial infarction, stroke, and arterial revascularization procedures. 
Rosuvastatin is also indicated in pediatric patients, 10 to 17 years of age, with heterozygous 
familial hypercholesterolemia to reduce elevated total-C, LDL-C and ApoB after failing an 
adequate trial of diet therapy. 10 
Peak plasma concentrations of rosuvastatin are reached between 3 to 5 hours following oral 
administration under both fed and fasting conditions. Both Cmax and AUC increased in 
approximate proportion to rosuvastatin dose and the absolute bioavailability of rosuvastatin 
 
 
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is approximately 20%. Administration of rosuvastatin with food did not affect the extent of 
absorption. BCRP plays a key role in the absorption and hepatic clearance of rosuvastatin. 
Rosuvastatin is primarily eliminated via the liver; however it is not extensively metabolized 
with approximately 10% of a radiolabeled dose recovered as metabolite. CYP2C9 appears to 
the principal enzyme involved in the formation of the major metabolite, N-desmethyl 
rosuvastatin, after rosuvastatin is rapidly and selectively taken from the blood into the liver 
by OATP1B1. Rosuvastatin is also a substrate for BCRP. Rosuvastatin is mainly excreted via 
bile and feces (90%). 10, 12, 13 
Rosuvastatin exposure is not influenced by mild to moderate renal impairment 
(eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2); however, exposure to rosuvastatin is increased to a clinically 
significant extent in patients with severe renal impairment who are not receiving 
hemodialysis. CRESTOR dosing should be adjusted in patients with severe renal impairment 
(CLcr < 30 mL/min). 10 
7.1.6 Rifampin 
Rifampin is a semi-synthetic antibiotic derivative of rifamycin SV which acts by inhibiting 
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-dependent ribonucleic acid (RNA) polymerase activity in 
susceptible species of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Its activity does not impede mammalian 
enzyme RNA polymerase, therefore it is an effective treatment for both tuberculosis and 
meningococcus infections. Rifampin can be administered by oral route or by an IV infusion 
of 30 minutes to 3 hours. The IV doses are the same as oral doses. 14 
Rifampin is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is considered to be a highly 
variable drug in healthy adults and pediatric populations. A single oral dose of 600 mg of 
rifampin in healthy adults has an average peak serum concentration of 7 μg/mL ranging from 
4 to 32 μg/mL with an average half-life of 3.35 ± 0.66 hours. Gastric absorption with food 
reduces the bioavailability of rifampin by about 30%. Rifampin is widely distributed 
throughout the body and can reach effective concentrations in various organs and 
cerebrospinal fluid. Rifampin is 80% protein bound in the blood while the remaining 
unbound fraction is not ionized and can readily diffuses into tissues. 14 
Following multiple dosing, rifampin is known to be a potent inducer of efflux drug 
transporters such as hepatic P-gp and drug-metabolizing enzymes, among which are CYP2C9 
and CYP3A4. However studies have shown that an acute single dose of rifampin inhibits 
OATP1B1/1B3 as well as P-gp transport enzymes. 
Rifampin is rapidly eliminated in the bile and undergoes enterohepatic recirculation; during 
this process, gradual deacetylation of the drug occurs so that nearly all the drug in the bile is 
in this form 6 hours postdose. The deacetylated form of rifampin is active and exhibits 
antibacterial properties. Moreover, intestinal reabsorption is reduced by deacetylation thus 
promoting drug elimination. 
While label data for rifampicin in patients in renal failure is relatively sparse, data exists in 
the clinical literature. While there may be a reduction in urine excretion of rifampicin and 
 
 
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deacetylrifampicin in patients with renal failure when compared to healthy controls, there 
does not appear to be an effect on plasma concentrations of rifampicin. 15 Rifampicin is 
principally eliminated through hepato-biliary excretion 16 with renal elimination playing a 
relatively minor role. 17 The general recommendation is not to reduce rifampicin dose for 
tuberculous patients with renal failure 15 and to also administer at the usual dose of 600 mg in 
patents on hemodialysis. 18 
7.2 
Rationale  
7.2.1 Rationale for this Study and Study Design 
This study is intended to evaluate the pharmacokinetic performance of a cocktail of five 
probe substrates (i.e., dabigatran etexilate, atorvastatin, pitavastatin, rosuvastatin, and 
midazolam) in the setting of renal impairment and healthy subjects orally as microdoses. A 
probe inhibitor, rifampin will be included to assess the influence of transporter function in 
this setting. 
The effect of timing of dosing relative to dialysis will be explored by assessing the 
pharmacokinetic profile of the different analytes following dosing before and after dialysis in 
ESRD patients. 
7.2.2 Rationale for the Dose Selection 
Midazolam: 
A midazolam dose of 10 μg has been chosen for administration in the microdose cocktail.  
The dose of midazolam that is typically required for effective sedation is 0.5 mg/kg (to a 
maximum of 20 mg). A 2 mg midazolam dose is frequently selected for evaluation of 
midazolam as a probe substrate in DDI studies. The 10 μg dose selected for use in this study 
is therefore 1/200th of the standard dose used in DDI studies and is not expected to generate 
any clinically apparent pharmacodynamic effects. The plasma pharmacokinetic profile of 
midazolam arising from administration of this microdose is expected to be measurable using 
the bioanalytical procedures specified for this study. 
Dabigatran: 
A dabigatran etexilate dose of 375 μg has been chosen for administration in the microdose 
cocktail. The clinically approved doses of dabigatran etexilate are 75 mg and 150 mg, 
administered twice daily. The dose selected for this study is therefore 1/200th of the lowest 
clinically approved dose, and is not expected to generate any clinically apparent 
pharmacodynamic effects. The plasma pharmacokinetic profile of dabigatran arising from 
administration of this microdose is expected to be measurable using the bioanalytical 
procedures specified for this study. 
 
 
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Pitavastatin: 
A pitavastatin dose of 10 μg has been chosen for administration in the microdose cocktail.  
The clinically approved dose range of pitavastatin is 1-4 mg, administered once daily. The 
usual recommended starting dose is 2 mg. The dose selected for this study is therefore 
1/200th of the usual clinical starting dose, and is not expected to generate any clinically 
apparent pharmacodynamic effects. The plasma pharmacokinetic profile of pitavastatin 
arising from administration of this microdose is expected to be measurable using the 
bioanalytical procedures specified for this study. 
Atorvastatin: 
An atorvastatin dose of 100 μg has been chosen for administration in the microdose cocktail. 
The clinically approved dose range of atorvastatin is 10-80 mg, administered once daily. The 
usual recommended starting dose is 10-20 mg. The dose selected for this study is therefore 
1/100th of the lowest clinically approved dose, and is not expected to generate any clinically 
apparent pharmacodynamic effects. The plasma pharmacokinetic profile of atorvastatin 
arising from administration of this microdose is expected to be measurable using the 
bioanalytical procedures specified for this study. 
Rosuvastatin: 
A rosuvastatin dose of 50 μg has been chosen for administration in the microdose cocktail. 
The clinically approved dose range of rosuvastatin is 5-40 mg, administered once daily. The 
dose selected for this study is therefore 1/100th of the lowest clinically approved dose, and is 
not expected to generate any clinically apparent pharmacodynamic effects. The plasma 
pharmacokinetic profile of rosuvastatin arising from administration of this microdose is 
expected to be measurable using the bioanalytical procedures specified for this study. 
Rifampin: 
The single 600 mg rifampin dose has been selected based on the use of this dose in previous 
DDI studies, and the intent to use this dose in subsequent DDI studies. While 600 mg per day 
is the maximum daily dose used in the treatment of tuberculosis (typically for several 
months), higher daily doses are used in other settings (e.g., 600 mg BID for meningococcal 
prophylaxis and 300 mg three times a day for prosthetic valve endocarditis), and single doses 
of 600 mg are expected to be well-tolerated. 
 
 
 
 
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Table 1: 
Study Microdose Cocktail Component Doses: 
Probe Compound  
Cocktail Microdose  
Therapeutic Dose 
Midazolam  
10 μg  
1 – 5 mg/dose 
Dabigatran  
375 μg  
75 – 150 mg BID 
Pitavastatin  
10 μg  
1 – 4 mg once a day [QD] 
Atorvastatin  
100 μg  
10 – 80 mg QD 
Rosuvastatin  
50 μg  
5 – 40 mg QD 
7.2.3 Rationale for Endpoints 
The most representative pharmacokinetic parameter for the assessment of inhibition of 
metabolic elimination of single oral dose of dabigatran etexilate, atorvastatin, pitavastatin, 
rosuvastatin, and midazolam is AUC0-∞. Thus, the primary pharmacokinetic measure of the 
study is the true GMR of AUC0-∞ of each substrate with and without probe DDI 
perpetrators. 
7.2.4 Rationale for Planned Exploratory Biomarker Research 
Planned Genetic Analysis 
Understanding genetic determinants of drug response and the molecular basis of disease is an 
important endeavor during medical research. This research will evaluate whether genetic 
variation within a clinical trial population correlates with response to the treatment(s) under 
evaluation and/or disease. If genetic variation is found to predict efficacy or adverse events, 
the data might inform optimal use of therapies in the patient population. Knowledge of the 
molecular basis of disease contributes to the development of novel biomarkers and the 
identification of new drug targets. This research contributes to understanding molecular basis 
of disease and the genetic determinants of efficacy and safety associated with the treatments 
in this study. 
7.2.5 Rationale for Future Biomedical Research 
The Sponsor will conduct Future Biomedical Research on DNA specimens consented for 
future biomedical research during this clinical trial. 
Such research is for biomarker testing to address emergent questions not described elsewhere 
in the protocol (as part of the main trial) and will only be conducted on specimens from 
appropriately consented subjects. The objective of collecting/retaining specimens for Future 
Biomedical Research is to explore and identify biomarkers that inform the scientific 
understanding of diseases and/or their therapeutic treatments. The overarching goal is to use 
such information to develop safer, more effective drugs/vaccines, and/or to ensure that 
subjects receive the correct dose of the correct drug/vaccine at the correct time. The details of 
this Future Biomedical Research sub-trial are presented in Appendix 2 - Collection and 
Management of Specimens for Future Biomedical Research. 
 
 
 
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8 
STUDY OBJECTIVES, ESTIMATIONS, AND ENDPOINTS 
8.1 
Objectives and Estimations 
8.1.1 Primary 
Primary (Period 1): 
Objective 1:  To characterize the plasma pharmacokinetic profiles of midazolam, dabigatran, 
pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone), atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH 
atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin), and rosuvastatin following a single oral dose 
administration of a microdose cocktail in healthy subjects, in subjects with mild, moderate, 
severe (not on dialysis) renal impairment, and in subjects with ESRD (on dialysis). 
Estimation 1:  The plasma pharmacokinetic parameters (e.g., AUC0-24, AUC0-last, 
AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and apparent terminal t½) of midazolam, dabigatran, 
pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone), atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH 
atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin), and rosuvastatin following a single oral dose 
administration of a microdose cocktail will be estimated in healthy subjects, in subjects with 
mild, moderate, severe (not on dialysis) renal impairment, and in subjects with ESRD (on 
dialysis). 
Primary Objective for Midazolam: 
Objective 2:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single-dose 
pharmacokinetics of midazolam administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 2:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of midazolam following a single oral dose administration of 
a microdose cocktail containing midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, 
and rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated and compared to the 
plasma AUC0-∞ of midazolam following a single oral dose administration of the microdose 
cocktail alone, in each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy 
subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment).  
Primary Objective for Dabigatran: 
Objective 3:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single-dose 
pharmacokinetics of dabigatran administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 3:  Plasma AUC0-∞  of dabigatran following a single oral dose administration of 
a microdose cocktail containing  midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, 
and rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated and compared to the 
plasma AUC0-∞ of dabigatran following a single oral dose administration of the microdose 
 
 
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cocktail alone, in each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy 
subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment).  
Primary Objective for Pitavastatin: 
Objective 4:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single-dose 
pharmacokinetics of pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) administered as 
part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately (except for ESRD 
subjects). 
Estimation 4:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of pitavastatin (and its metabolite pitavastatin lactone) 
following a single oral dose administration of a microdosecocktail containing midazolam, 
dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of 
rifampin will be estimated and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of pitavastatin (and its 
metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) following a single dose administration of the microdose 
cocktail alone, in each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy 
subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment).  
Primary Objective for Atorvastatin: 
Objective 5:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single-dose 
pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH 
atorvastatin) administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population 
separately (except for ESRD subjects).  
Estimation 5:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 
4-OH atorvastatin) following a single oral dose administration of a microdose cocktail 
containing midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin with a 
single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated and compared to the plasma AUC0-∞ of 
atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin) following a single 
oral dose administration of the microdose cocktail alone, in each subject population 
separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, 
or severe renal impairment).  
Primary Objective for Rosuvastatin: 
Objective 6:  To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single-dose 
pharmacokinetics of rosuvastatin administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Estimation 6:  Plasma AUC0-∞ of rosuvastatin following a single oral dose administration of 
a microdose cocktail containing midazolam, dabigatran etexilate, pitavastatin, atorvastatin, 
and rosuvastatin with a single oral dose of rifampin will be estimated and compared to the 
plasma AUC0-∞ of rosuvastatin following a single oral dose administration of the microdose 
cocktail alone, in each subject population separately (except for ESRD subjects; i.e., healthy 
subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment). 
 
 
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8.1.2 Secondary Objectives 
Objective 1:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single oral dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, 
and Vz/F) of midazolam administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 2:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single oral dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, 
and Vz/F) of dabigatran administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 3:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single oral dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, 
and Vz/F) of pitavastatin (and its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone) when pitavastatin is 
administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately (except for 
ESRD subjects). 
Objective 4:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, 
and Vz/F) of atorvastatin (and its metabolites, ortho-hydroxyatorvastatin [2-OH 
atorvastatin] and para-hydroxyatorvastatin [4-OH atorvastatin]) when atorvastatin is 
administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject population separately (except for 
ESRD subjects). 
Objective 5:  To estimate the effect of a single oral dose of rifampin on the single oral dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-24, AUC0-last, Cmax, C24, Tmax, apparent terminal t½, CL/F, 
and Vz/F) of rosuvastatin administered as part of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
Objective 6:  To compare the magnitude of the drug-drug interaction (DDI) between rifampin 
and each of the 5 substrates in the microdose cocktail between healthy subjects and each 
category of RI subjects (mild, moderate, severe RI ). 
Objective 7:  To estimate the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters (e.g., AUC0-24, 
AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and apparent terminal t½) of dabigatran, 
atorvastatin (and its metabolites, 2-OH atorvastatin and 4-OH atorvastatin), pitavastatin (and 
its metabolite, pitavastatin lactone), rosuvastatin, and midazolam following a single oral dose 
administration of a microdose cocktail in ESRD subjects on dialysis when the microdose 
cocktail is administered at different times relative to dialysis. 
Objective 8:  To estimate the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters (e.g., AUC0-24, 
AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, and apparent terminal t½) of rifampin following a 
single oral dose administration with a single oral dose of a microdose cocktail in each subject 
population separately (except for ESRD subjects). 
 
 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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8.1.3 Exploratory Objectives 
Objective 1:  To evaluate plasma, serum, and urinary biomarkers to assess the impact of renal 
impairment on functions such as organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B 
inhibition. 
Objective 2:  To evaluate the urinary pharmacokinetics (e.g., CLr, Ae0-24, and fe) of 
dabigatran and rosuvastatin in each population. 
8.1.4 Planned Exploratory Biomarker 
Objective:  To explore the relationship between genetic variation and response to the 
treatment(s) administered, and mechanisms of disease. Variation across the human genome 
may be analyzed for association with clinical data collected in this study. 
8.2 
Analysis Endpoints 
Pharmacokinetics: 
The following plasma pharmacokinetic parameters will be calculated for all plasma analytes 
(rifampin [Period 2 only], midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, 
atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin) on Day 1 of each 
treatment period, as appropriate:  AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, C24, Tmax, 
apparent terminal t½, CL/F (parent only), and Vz/F (parent only).  
The following urine pharmacokinetic parameters may also be calculated for dabigatran and 
rosuvastatin: CLr, Ae0-24, and fe.  
Protein binding (plasma) assays will be performed on predose samples from Period 1. 
Safety: 
Safety endpoints will include adverse events, physical examinations, vital signs, 12-lead 
ECGs, pulse oximetry, and clinical laboratory tests. 
Biomarkers: 
The following  biomarkers and also uremic toxins will be measured to assess OATP1B 
inhibition: serum total/direct bilirubin, plasma coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, 
indoxyl sulfate, CMPF, GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and TCDA-S 
concentrations, and urine coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF concentrations. 
To evaluate the concentration-time effects of perpetrator-mediated inhibition of OATP1B, 
the following parameters will be calculated for the biomarkers and uremic toxins on Day 1 
following Treatments A and B:  AUC0-last, Cmax, Tmax for plasma parameters, and Ae0-24 
and fe for urine parameters. Measurements to assess renal clearance will be performed after a 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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24-hour interval urine collection (urine will be collected in intervals 0-4 hr, 4-8 hr, 8-12 hr, 
and 12-24 hr.    
A predose sample will also include measurement of serum creatinine (central lab) and may 
also be used to measure uremic toxins/biomarkers (exploratory). 
 
 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 37 
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9 
INVESTIGATIONAL PLAN 
9.1 
Overall Study Design and Plan 
This is an open label, 2 period, fixed sequence study in 24 renal impairment subjects and 
6 healthy control subjects.   
Twenty-four (24) RI subjects between 18 and 78 years of age (inclusive) will be enrolled; 
6 subjects with mild renal impairment; 6 subjects with moderate renal impairment; 6 subjects 
with severe renal impairment who are not on dialysis; and 6 subjects with ESRD on dialysis. 
A cohort of 6 healthy control subjects will also be enrolled.  
Conduct of the mild RI cohort may be performed, as determined by the Sponsor, following 
conduct completion and review of data from the moderate and severe RI cohorts and the 
healthy cohort. 
Screening of subjects will occur within 28 days prior to the first dosing. 
Assignment to a renal function group will be as follows: 
Group 
N 
eGFR (mL/min/1.73m2) or CLcr (mL/min)* 
ESRD requiring hemodialysis 
6 
Requiring hemodialysis 
Severe impairment 
6 
< 30 not on hemodialysis ** 
Moderate impairment 
6 
30 – < 60 *** 
Mild impairment 
6 
60 - < 90 
Healthy control  
6 
≥ 90 **** 
* eGFR based on MDRD equation at screening. Baseline eGFR will be obtained twice during the 
screening period, and the mean of the two values will be used for group assignment. The second 
baseline eGFR sample may be obtained at the time of check-in in Period 1. CLcr by Cockcroft-Gault 
equation will be used for healthy control assignment (normal renal function). 
** Reasonable efforts will be made to enroll at least 2 subjects with eGFR values of 
< 20 mL/min/1.73m2  
*** Reasonable efforts will be made to ensure a broad representation across the range of eGFR values 
of 30 - <  60 mL/min/1.73m2 
****. For healthy subjects a creatinine clearance computed over a 24 hour urine collection for 
subjects that do not qualify with >90 mL/min CLcr may be done for confirmation purposes. 
In Period 1, subjects will receive Treatment A, a single oral dose of the microdose cocktail 
(i.e., midazolam oral solution, dabigatran etexilate and pitavastatin oral solution, atorvastatin 
and rosuvastatin oral solution) on Day 1 followed by pharmacokinetic sampling for 72 hours. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 38 
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The microdose cocktail will be dosed approximately 24 hours prior to the start of dialysis for 
ESRD subjects. 
In Period 2, subjects (except ESRD subjects) will receive Treatment B, a single oral dose of 
rifampin capsules with a single oral dose of the microdose cocktail, coadministered on Day 1. 
In Period 2, ESRD subjects will receive only Treatment A, a single oral dose of the 
microdose cocktail on Day 1. The microdose cocktail will be dosed as soon as possible 
within 24 hours after the completion of dialysis. 
In each period, pharmacokinetic samples for plasma midazolam, dabigatran (as free 
dabigatran), pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, 4-OH 
atorvastatin, pitavastatin, and rosuvastatin will be collected for up to 72 hours following 
dosing. Pharmacokinetic samples for plasma rifampin will be collected for up to 24 hours 
following dosing in Period 2 only from all subjects except for ESRD subjects. 
In each period, urine samples will be collected for 24 hours postdose, if possible, to assess 
dabigatran and rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics and blood and urine samples will be collected 
for 24 hours postdose for measurement of biomarker concentrations. For subjects with renal 
impairment, urine samples will be collected whenever possible, as they may not be able to 
produce urine at each interval. For subjects who are anuric, urine samples will not be 
collected. 
Safety will be monitored throughout the study by repeated clinical and laboratory 
evaluations. 
There will be at least 14 days washout between dosing in Period 1 and dosing in Period 2. 
Subjects may be replaced at the discretion of the Sponsor. 
9.1.1 Confinement, Return Visit, and Follow-up 
Subjects will be housed from Day -2 (Orlando clinical site) or Day – 1 (Miami clinical site) 
at the time indicated by the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), until after the 72-hour blood 
draw. At all times, a subject may be required to remain at the CRU for longer at the 
discretion of the Investigator. 
The clinic will attempt to contact subjects (including subjects who terminate the study early) 
using their standard procedures approximately 14 days after the last study drug 
administration to determine if any adverse events have occurred since the last visit. 
9.1.2 Study Duration 
The duration of the study from screening to Day 4 of Period 2 is approximately 6.5 weeks. 
The duration of the study from screening to follow-up is approximately 8 weeks. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 39 
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9.2 
Selection of Study Population 
9.2.1 Inclusion Criteria 
9.2.1.1 Subjects with Renal Impairment 
Subjects must fulfill all of the following inclusion criteria to be eligible for participation in 
the study, unless otherwise specified: 
1. Adult male or female subject, 18-78 years of age, inclusive, at screening. 
2. A female must be non-pregnant, non-breast feeding and if she is of reproductive 
potential: must demonstrate a serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β –hCG) level 
consistent with the nongravid state at screening (Note: if a subject has a β –hCG level that 
is not consistent with the non-gravid state due to disease or medication, the investigators 
may consult with the sponsor to obtain approval to enroll the subject in the study) and 
agree to use (and/or have their partner use) two (2) acceptable methods of birth control 
beginning at screening, throughout the study and until 2 weeks after the last dosing of 
study drug: 
• diaphragm with spermicide (cannot be used in conjunction with cervical 
cap/spermicide and contraceptive sponge) 
• cervical cap with spermicide (nulliparous women only) 
• contraceptive sponge with spermicide (nulliparous women only)  
• male condom or female condom with spermicide (cannot be used together) 
3. A female of non-childbearing potential:  must have undergone one of the following 
sterilization procedures at least 6 months prior to the first dose: 
• hysteroscopic sterilization; 
• bilateral tubal ligation or bilateral salpingectomy; 
• hysterectomy; 
• bilateral oophorectomy. 
or be postmenopausal with amenorrhea for at least 1 year prior to the first dose and have 
FSH serum levels consistent with postmenopausal status. 
4. A non-vasectomized male subject must agree to use a condom with spermicide or abstain 
from sexual intercourse from the first dose until 90 days after the last dose. No 
restrictions are required for a vasectomized male provided his vasectomy has been 
performed 4 months or more prior to study start. A male subject who has been 
vasectomized less than 4 months prior to study start must follow the same restrictions as 
a non-vasectomized male. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 40 
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5. A male subject must agree not to donate sperm from dosing until 90 days after dosing/the 
last dose of study drug.  
6. Subject has a body mass index (BMI) ≤ 40.0 kg/m2, at screening. 
7. With the exception of renal impairment, subject is judged to be in good health based on 
medical history, physical examination, vital signs, pulse oximetry, and laboratory safety 
tests. Subject has no clinically significant ECG abnormality, as deemed by the 
Investigator or designee. Subjects who do not qualify based on a reversible condition or 
mild intercurrent illness may be re-screened after the underlying condition is resolved. 
8. Subject is a non-smoker or moderate smoker (≤ 20 cigarettes/day or the equivalent). 
Subject must agree to consume no more than 10 cigarettes or equivalent/day from the 
time of screening and throughout the period of sample collection. 
9. Subject has a clinical diagnosis of renal impairment and meets the renal impairment 
function qualifications listed below at the prestudy visit (screening): 
Group 
eGFR (mL/min/1.73m2)* 
ESRD requiring hemodialysis 
Requiring hemodialysis 
Severe impairment 
< 30 not on hemodialysis ** 
Moderate impairment 
30 – < 60 *** 
Mild impairment 
60 - < 90 
* eGFR based on MDRD equation at screening. Baseline eGFR will be obtained twice as part of 
subject screening and the mean of the two values will be used for renal impairment 
assignment. The second baseline eGFR sample may be obtained at the time of check-in in 
Period 1. 
** Reasonable efforts will be made to enroll at least 2 subjects with eGFR values of 
< 20 mL/min/1.73m2  
*** Reasonable efforts will be made to ensure a broad representation across the range of eGFR 
values of 30 - < 60 mL/min/1.73m2 
Based on eGFR from the MDRD equation at screening as defined as follows (for females 
multiply result by 0.742, if African American multiply result by 1.212):  
The MDRD equation is: 
eGFR = 175 x (Scr,std)-1.154 x (Age)-0.203 
Scr, std:  serum creatinine (mg/dL) measured with a standardized assay. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 41 
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10. For mild, moderate, and severe RI subjects:  Has a stable renal function with no clinically 
significant change in renal status at least 1 month prior to the first study drug 
administration and is not currently or has not previously been on hemodialysis. 
11. For subjects with ESRD:  Is maintained on a stable regimen of HD within 3 months prior 
to the first dose. 
12. Subjects understands the study procedures in the informed consent forms (ICFs), is 
willing and able to comply with the protocol, and provides written informed consent for 
the trial, including for Future Biomedical Research. Future Biomedical Research will be 
conducted as a voluntary part of the trial. 
9.2.1.2 Healthy Subjects 
Subjects must fulfill all of the following inclusion criteria to be eligible for participation in 
the study, unless otherwise specified: 
1. Adult male or female subject, 18-78 years of age, inclusive, at screening. 
2. A female must be non-pregnant, non-breast feeding and if she is of reproductive 
potential: must demonstrate a serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β –hCG) level 
consistent with the nongravid state at screening and agree to use (and/or have their 
partner use) two (2) acceptable methods of birth control beginning at screening, 
throughout the study and until 2 weeks after the last dosing of study drug: 
• diaphragm with spermicide (cannot be used in conjunction with cervical 
cap/spermicide and contraceptive sponge) 
• cervical cap with spermicide (nulliparous women only) 
• contraceptive sponge with spermicide (nulliparous women only)  
• male condom or female condom with spermicide (cannot be used together) 
3. A female of non-childbearing potential:  must have undergone one of the following 
sterilization procedures at least 6 months prior to the first dose: 
• hysteroscopic sterilization; 
• bilateral tubal ligation or bilateral salpingectomy; 
• hysterectomy; 
• bilateral oophorectomy. 
or be postmenopausal with amenorrhea for at least 1 year prior to the first dose and have 
FSH serum levels consistent with postmenopausal status. 
4. A non-vasectomized male subject must agree to use a condom with spermicide or abstain 
from sexual intercourse from the first dose until 90 days after the last dose. No 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 42 
CONFIDENTIAL 
restrictions are required for a vasectomized male provided his vasectomy has been 
performed 4 months or more prior to study start. A male subject who has been 
vasectomized less than 4 months prior to study start must follow the same restrictions as 
a non-vasectomized male. 
5. Subject has a BMI ≤ 40.0 kg/m2, at screening. 
6. Subject is judged to be in good health based on medical history, physical examination, 
vital signs, pulse oximetry, and laboratory safety tests. Subject has no clinically 
significant ECG abnormality, as deemed by the Investigator or designee. Subjects who do 
not qualify based on a reversible condition or mild intercurrent illness may be re-screened 
after the underlying condition is resolved. 
7. Subject is a non-smoker or moderate smoker (≤ 20 cigarettes/day or the equivalent). 
Subject must agree to consume no more than 10 cigarettes or equivalent/day from the 
time of screening and throughout the period of sample collection. 
9. Subject has baseline CLcr ≥ 90 mL/min based on Cockcroft-Gault equation at screening 
defined as follows (for females multiply result by 0.85)*: 
The Cockcroft-Gault equation is: 
CLcr = [140-age (years)] + weight (kg) / 72 Scr, std 
Scr, std:  serum creatinine (mg/dL) measured with a standardized assay.  
*For healthy subjects a creatinine clearance computed over a 24 hour urine collection for 
subjects that do not qualify with ≥ 90 mL/min CLcr may be done for confirmation 
purposes. 
8. Subject understands the study procedures in the ICFs, is willing and able to comply with 
the protocol, and provides written informed consent for the trial, including for Future 
Biomedical Research. Future Biomedical Research will be conducted as a voluntary part 
of the trial. 
9.2.2 Exclusion Criteria 
9.2.2.1 Subjects with Renal Impairment 
Subjects must not be enrolled in the study if they meet any of the following criteria: 
1. Subject is mentally or legally incapacitated or has significant emotional problems at the 
time of the screening visit or expected during the conduct of the study. 
2. Subject has a history or presence of clinically significant medical or psychiatric condition 
or disease in the opinion of the Investigator or designee.  
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 43 
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3. Subject has a history of any illness that, in the opinion of the Investigator or designee, 
might confound the results of the study or poses an additional risk to the subject by their 
participation in the study. 
4. Subject has rapidly fluctuating renal function as determined by historical measurements; 
or subject has demonstrated or suspected renal stenosis. Rapid fluctuation in renal 
function is defined as creatinine clearance that differs by more than 30% within 3 months 
of the screening eGFR determination. If historical measurements are not available, then 
the 2 screening measurements will be used to demonstrate stability. Subjects with CrCL 
≤ 24 mL/min with renal fluctuation of more than 30% within 3 months of the screening 
eGFR determination may be allowed in the study following discussion with the Sponsor. 
5. Subject has a history of stroke, chronic seizures, or major neurological disorders. 
6. Subject has uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a history of Type 1 diabetes, 
or ketoacidosis. 
7. Subject with a history of significant endocrine (other than T2DM), gastrointestinal, 
cardiovascular, hematological, immunological, respiratory, or genitourinary diseases 
whose current condition is considered clinically unstable in the opinion of the 
investigator or designee. Subjects who have had a cholecystectomy may be allowed.   
8. Subject has a history of malignant neoplastic disease. Exceptions: (1) Subjects with 
adequately treated non-melanomatous skin carcinoma or carcinoma in situ of the cervix 
may participate in the study; (2) Subjects with other malignancies which have been 
successfully treated ≥10 years prior to screening where, in the judgment of both the 
Investigator and treating physician, appropriate follow-up has revealed no evidence of 
recurrence from the time of treatment through the time of the screening; or, (3) Subjects, 
who, in the opinion of the Investigator or designee, are highly unlikely to sustain a 
recurrence for the duration of the study. 
9. For mild, moderate, and severe RI subjects: Subject has had a renal transplant or has had 
nephrectomy. 
10. For subjects with ESRD: Had a failed renal allograft within the last 2 years prior to the 
first dose, or a successful renal allograft 
11. Subject is unable to refrain from or anticipates the use of any medication or substance 
(including prescription or over-the-counter, vitamin supplements, natural or herbal 
supplements) as indicated in Section 9.3.1 for the prohibited time period. Hormone 
replacement therapy is not excluded. 
12. Subject has a history or presence of alcoholism or drug abuse within the past 6 months 
prior to the first dose. 
13. Subject has a history or presence of hypersensitivity or idiosyncratic reaction to the study 
drug(s) or related compounds. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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14. A female subject who is pregnant or lactating. 
15. Subject has positive results for the urine or saliva drug and/or urine or breath alcohol 
screen at screening or check-in, unless the positive drug screen is due to prescription drug 
use that is approved by the Investigator and Sponsor’s Clinical Monitor. 
16. Positive results at screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B 
surface antigen (HBsAg), or hepatitis C antibodies. Subjects who are hepatitis C antibody 
positive may be enrolled, if they are confirmed with negative viral load at screening. 
17. Subject has been on a diet incompatible with the on-study diet, in the opinion of the 
Investigator or designee, within the 28 days prior to the first dose, and throughout the 
study. 
18. Subject donated blood or had significant blood loss within 56 days prior to the first dose. 
19. Subject donated plasma within 7 days prior to the first dose. 
20. Subject is or has an immediate family member (e.g., spouse, parent/legal guardian, 
sibling or child) who is a member of the investigational site or sponsor staff directly 
involved with this trial. 
21. Subject participated in another clinical trial within 28 days prior to the first dose. The 
4-week window will be derived from dosing in the previous study to Day 1 of Period 1 of 
the current study. 
9.2.2.2 Healthy Subjects 
Subjects must not be enrolled in the study if they meet any of the following criteria: 
1. Subject is mentally or legally incapacitated or has significant emotional problems at the 
time of the screening visit or expected during the conduct of the study. 
2. Subject has a history or presence of clinically significant medical or psychiatric condition 
or disease in the opinion of the Investigator or designee.  
3. Subject has a history of any illness that, in the opinion of the Investigator or designee, 
might confound the results of the study or poses an additional risk to the subject by their 
participation in the study. 
4. Subject has a history of stroke, chronic seizures, or major neurological disorders. 
5. Subject has history of hypoglycemia, glucose intolerance, T2DM, or ketoacidosis. 
6. Subject has a history of clinically significant endocrine, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, 
hematological, hepatic, immunological, renal, respiratory, or genitourinary abnormalities 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 45 
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or diseases. Subjects with a history of uncomplicated kidney stones or childhood asthma 
may be enrolled in the study at the discretion of the Investigator or designee. 
7. Subject has a history of malignant neoplastic disease. Exceptions: (1) Subjects with 
adequately treated non-melanomatous skin carcinoma or carcinoma in situ of the cervix 
may participate in the study; (2) Subjects with other malignancies which have been 
successfully treated ≥10 years prior to screening where, in the judgment of both the 
investigator and treating physician, appropriate follow-up has revealed no evidence of 
recurrence from the time of treatment through the time of screening; or, (3) Subjects, 
who, in the opinion of the Investigator or designee, are highly unlikely to sustain a 
recurrence for the duration of the study. 
8. Subject has had a renal transplant or has had nephrectomy. 
9. Subject is unable to refrain from or anticipates the use of any medication or substance 
(including prescription or over-the-counter, vitamin supplements, natural or herbal 
supplements) as indicated in Section 9.3.1 for the prohibited time period. Hormone 
replacement therapy is not excluded. 
10. Subject has a history or presence of alcoholism or drug abuse within the past 2 years prior 
to the first dose. 
11. Subject has a history or presence of hypersensitivity or idiosyncratic reaction to the study 
drug(s) or related compounds. 
12. A female subject who is pregnant or lactating. 
13. Subject has positive results for the urine or saliva drug and/or urine or breath alcohol 
screen at screening or check-in of Period 1. Unless the positive drug screen is due to 
prescription drug use that is approved by the Investigator and Sponsor’s Clinical Monitor. 
14. Subject has positive results at screening for HIV, HBsAg, or HCV. 
15. Subject has been on a diet incompatible with the on-study diet, in the opinion of the 
Investigator or designee, within the 28 days prior to the first dose, and throughout the 
study. 
16. Subject donated blood or had significant blood loss within 56 days prior to the first dose. 
17. Subject donated plasma within 7 days prior to the first dose. 
18. Subject is or has an immediate family member (e.g., spouse, parent/legal guardian, 
sibling or child) who is a member of the investigational site or sponsor staff directly 
involved with this trial. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 46 
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19. Subject participated in another clinical trial within 28 days prior to the first dose. The 
4-week window will be derived from dosing in the previous study to Day 1 of Period 1 of 
the current study. 
9.2.3 Subject Withdrawal/Discontinuation Criteria 
Subjects may withdraw consent at any time for any reason or be dropped from the trial at the 
discretion of the Investigator should any untoward effect occur. In addition, a subject may be 
withdrawn by the Investigator or the Sponsor if enrollment into the trial is inappropriate, the 
trial plan is violated, or for administrative and/or other safety reasons. Specific details 
regarding discontinuation or withdrawal procedures, including specific details regarding 
withdrawal from Future Biomedical Research, are provided in Section 9.2.3.1. 
Discontinuation is “permanent”. Once a subject is discontinued, he/she shall not be allowed 
to enroll again. 
Subjects may be replaced at the discretion of the Sponsor. 
A subject must be discontinued from the study for any of the following reasons: 
• The subject withdraws consent. 
• The subject has a confirmed positive serum pregnancy test. 
• The subject has a medical condition or personal circumstance which, in the opinion of 
the Investigator and/or Sponsor, places the subject at unnecessary risk through 
continued participation in the trial or does not allow the subject to adhere to the 
requirements of the protocol. 
A subject may be discontinued from the study for any of the following reasons: 
• Adverse events. 
• Difficulties in blood collection. 
• Protocol violation. 
9.2.3.1 Withdrawal/Discontinuation 
The Investigator or designee must notify the Sponsor when a subject has been 
discontinued/withdrawn from the study. If a subject discontinues for any reason at any time 
during the course of the study, the procedures scheduled at early termination (as outlined in 
Section 6) will be performed. Furthermore, the subject will be asked to return to the clinic or 
be contacted, if the Investigator deems necessary, for a follow-up (approximately 14 days 
after the last dose of study drug), to determine if any adverse events have occurred since the 
last visit. Any adverse events which are present at the time of discontinuation/withdrawal 
should be followed in accordance with the safety requirements outlined in Section 10.1.8. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 47 
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9.2.3.1.1 Withdrawal from Future Biomedical Research 
Subjects may withdraw their consent for Future Biomedical Research. Subjects may 
withdraw consent at any time by contacting the Principal Investigator for the main trial. If 
medical records for the main trial are still available, the Investigator will contact the Sponsor 
using the designated mailbox (clinical.specimen.management@merck.com). Subsequently, 
the subject's consent for Future Biomedical Research will be withdrawn. A letter will be sent 
from the Sponsor to the Investigator confirming the withdrawal. It is the responsibility of the 
Investigator to inform the subject of completion of withdrawal. Any analyses in progress at 
the time of request for withdrawal or already performed prior to the request being received 
by the Sponsor will continue to be used as part of the overall research trial data and results. 
No new analyses would be generated after the request is received. 
In the event that the medical records for the main trial are no longer available (e.g., if the 
Investigator is no longer required by regulatory authorities to retain the main trial records) or 
the specimens have been completely anonymized, there will no longer be a link between the 
subject’s personal information and their specimens. In this situation, the request for specimen 
withdrawal cannot be processed.  
9.3 
Study Restrictions 
9.3.1 Prohibitions and Concomitant Therapy 
Consumption of foods and beverages containing the following substances will be prohibited 
as indicated: 
• Xanthines/Caffeine: 24 hours before dosing and throughout the period of 
pharmacokinetic sample collection in each period; 
• Alcohol: 48 hours before dosing and throughout the period of pharmacokinetic 
sample collection in each period; 
• Grapefruit/Seville orange: 14 days before the first dose in Period 1 until the last 
pharmacokinetic sample collection in Period 2. 
• Fruit Juice:  72 hours before dosing until the last pharmacokinetic sample collection 
in each period; 
• Vegetables from the mustard green family (e.g., kale, broccoli, watercress, collard 
greens, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts, mustard), and charbroiled meats:  7 days before the 
first dose in Period 1 until the last pharmacokinetic sample collection in Period 2. 
Concurrent therapy with any medication during the course of the protocol including both 
prescription and non-prescription drugs must first be discussed with the Investigator and 
Sponsor Clinical Monitor prior to dosing, unless appropriate medical care necessitates that 
therapy should begin before the Investigator and Sponsor Clinical Monitor can be consulted. 
If a subject is prescribed prohibited medication, upon discussion between the Sponsor and the 
Investigator, the Investigator may substitute the previously prescribed medication to an 
 
 
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allowed one for the purpose of this study. During the study, acetaminophen (up to 2 g per 
24 hours) may be administered at the discretion of the Investigator. 
Appropriate sources will be consulted by the Investigator or designee to confirm lack of 
pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic interaction with drug. If deviations occur, the 
Investigator will decide on a case-by-case basis whether the subject may continue 
participation in the study based on the time the study drug was administered and its 
pharmacology.  
Also refer to Appendix 8 for additional details on allowable and prohibited concomitant 
therapy. 
All medications taken by subjects during the course of the study will be recorded. 
For Renal Impaired Subjects: 
All prescription or non-prescription medications (including St. John’s Wort) that are strong 
or moderate inhibitors or strong or moderate inducers of CYP3A and CYP2C9 enzymes or P-
gp transporters will be prohibited. These metabolizing enzyme inhibitors and inducers will 
not be allowed for at least 14 days and 28 days, respectively, prior to the first dose and 
throughout the study. Medications of particular concern include, but are not limited to azole 
antifungals 
(ketoconazole, 
itraconazole), 
macrolide 
antibiotics 
(erythromycin, 
clarithromycin), HIV protease inhibitors, nefazodone, rifampin (except when administered as 
part of Treatment B), dexamethasone, troglitazone, barbiturates, and any drug or supplement 
(e.g., St. John’s Wort) that inhibits or induces P-gp transporters. Weak P-gp inhibitors or 
inducers may be deemed acceptable following consultation with the Sponsor Clinical 
Monitor and the Investigator. 
Subjects who are taking certain prescription medications to treat manifestations of renal 
disease or medications needed to treat stable diseases (e.g., angiotensin converting enzyme 
inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, beta-blockers, diuretics) will be allowed to 
participate in the study at the discretion of the Investigator and following consultation with 
the Sponsor Clinical Monitor. Subjects must be on a stable regimen for at least 1 month (or 
5 half-lives of the study drug, whichever is longer) prior to the first study drug administration 
and is able to withhold the use within 4 hours prior to administration of the study drug.  
Any medication (including over-the-counter) that would significantly alter eGFR, which, by 
the determination of the Investigator, might interfere with the study (e.g., cimetidine) must be 
discontinued at least 2 weeks (or 5 half-lives of the compound, whichever is longer) prior to 
the first dosing of study drug.  
Note:  Proton pump inhibitors must be withheld 1 week prior to each dosing and 4 hours post 
dosing. 
Diuretics must be withheld 8 hours prior to each dosing and 4 hours post dosing.  
 
 
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Phosphate binders containing aluminum, calcium, or lanthanum salts; iron supplements or 
other metal cations; H2RAs [except cimetidine]); vitamin D, or multivitamins containing iron 
or zinc must be withheld 8 hours prior to each dosing and 4 hours post dosing.  
For Healthy Subjects: 
Any medication or substance (including prescription or over-the-counter, vitamin 
supplements, natural or herbal supplements) are to be discontinued at least 14 days prior to 
dosing and throughout the study are prohibited. All prescription or non-prescription 
medications (including St. John’s Wort) that are moderate/strong inhibitors or 
moderate/strong inducers of CYP3A and CYP2C9 enzymes or P-gp transporters will be 
prohibited for at least 14 days and 28 days, respectively, prior to the first dose and throughout 
the study. Certain medications may be deemed acceptable following consultation with the 
Sponsor Clinical Monitor and the Investigator. Appropriate sources will be consulted by the 
Investigator or designee to confirm lack of potential pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic 
interaction with study drug. 
9.3.2 Meals 
Water (except water provided with dosing) will be restricted 1 hour prior to and 1 hour after 
study drug administration, but will be allowed ad libitum at all other times. Other fluids may 
be given as part of the standard meals and/or snacks, but will be restricted at all other times 
throughout the confinement period. 
Subjects will fast overnight for at least 10 hours prior to each study drug administration. 
Subjects will continue the fast for at least 4 hours postdose.  
On all days that subjects are confined in the CRU, standard meals will be provided at 
approximately 4 and 9 hours postdose, and at appropriate times thereafter. Snacks will be 
offered at appropriate times. When confined in the CRU, subjects will fast from all food and 
drink except water between meals and snacks. 
Each meal and/or snacks served at the CRU will be standardized, and will be similar in 
caloric content and composition. 
9.3.3 Activity 
Subjects will remain ambulatory or seated upright for the first 4 hours following study drug 
administration, except when they are supine or semi-reclined for study procedures. 
However, should adverse events occur at any time, subjects may be placed in an appropriate 
position or will be permitted to lie down on their right side. 
Subjects will be instructed to refrain from strenuous physical activity which could cause 
muscle aches or injury, including contact sports at any time from screening until completion 
of the study. 
 
 
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Depending on the CRU rules and regulations, subjects may be prohibited from smoking 
during their confinement or during portions of their confinement. 
9.4 
Treatments 
9.4.1 Treatments Administered 
Treatment A will be supplied as microdose cocktail. See Table 2. Oral solutions for 
Treatment A will be prepared and stored according to the Method of Preparation Manual and 
Master Batch Records provided separately. 
Treatment B will be supplied as microdose cocktail and rifampin as 300 mg oral capsules. 
Table 2: 
Study Microdose Cocktail Component Doses 
Probe Compound  
Cocktail Microdose  
Therapeutic Dose 
Midazolam  
10 μg  
1 – 5 mg/dose 
Dabigatran  
375 μg  
75 – 150 mg BID 
Pitavastatin  
10 μg  
1 – 4 mg QD 
Atorvastatin  
100 μg  
10 – 80 mg QD 
Rosuvastatin  
50 μg  
5 – 40 mg QD 
Subjects will receive the following treatments in a fixed-sequence: 
Treatment A (Period 1):  Single oral dose of the microdose cocktail at Hour 0 on Day 1 
following an overnight fast. The microdose cocktail will contain: 
• 
10 μg midazolam (1 mL of 10 μg/mL oral solution), administered orally as midazolam 
hydrochloride (HCl); 
• 
375/10 μg dabigatran etexilate and pitavastatin (1 mL of 375/10 μg/mL oral solution), 
administered as dabigatran etexilate mesylate and pitavastatin calcium; and 
• 
100/50 μg atorvastatin and rosuvastatin (2 mL of 50/25 μg/mL oral solution, dosed as 
2 x 1 mL dosing syringes), administered as atorvastatin calcium trihydrate and 
rosuvastatin calcium. 
Each oral solution will be administered using 1 mL amber dosing syringes.  
Treatment B (Period 2):  600 mg oral single dose rifampin (2 x 300 mg capsules) 
coadministered with a single oral dose microdose cocktail (as described in Treatment A) at 
Hour 0 on Day 1 following an overnight fast.  
NOTE:  Subjects with ESRD will not receive rifampin in Period 2; they will receive 
Treatment A in Period 2, instead of Treatment B. In Period 1, dosing will occur 
 
 
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approximately 24 hours prior to dialysis. In Period 2, dosing will occur as soon as possible 
within 24 hours after completion of the dialysis. 
Subjects will drink one container of approximately 240 mL of water after each complete 
dosing completion.  
The pharmacy at the CRU will provide each dose in individual syringes (microdose cocktail) 
or unit dose containers (rifampin) for each subject. 
The exact clock time of dosing will be recorded. 
9.4.2 Method of Assigning Subjects to Treatment Groups 
Each subject will be assigned a unique identification number upon screening. Subjects who 
complete the study screening assessments and meet all the eligibility criteria will receive 
Treatment A in Period 1 then Treatment B in Period 2 in a fixed-sequence except for subjects 
with ESRD who will not receive rifampin in Period 2; they will receive Treatment A in 
Period 2, instead of Treatment B. 
If replacement subjects are used, the replacement subject number will be 100 more than the 
original (e.g., allocation number 0101 will replace allocation number 0001). 
9.4.3 Blinding 
This is an open-label study. 
9.4.4 Treatment Compliance  
A qualified designee will be responsible for monitoring the administration of timed oral dose. 
A mouth check will be performed by the qualified designee to ensure that the subjects have 
swallowed the study drug. Once a subject has finished the water, the qualified designee will 
use a flashlight and a tongue depressor to check the subject’s mouth. Subjects’ hands will 
also be verified to ensure that the study drug was ingested. 
9.4.5 Study Design or Procedure Modifications Permitted within Protocol Parameters  
The dose and administration of the trial study drug to any subject may not be modified. If 
necessary a subject must be discontinued for the reasons described in Section 9.2.3. 
 
 
 
 
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10 STUDY PROCEDURES 
The Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6) summarizes the clinical procedures to be 
performed at each visit. Individual clinical procedures are described in detail below. 
Additional evaluations/testing may be deemed necessary by the Investigator and/or the 
Sponsor for reasons related to subject safety. 
For this study, the blood collection for all plasma analytes (midazolam, dabigatran, 
pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, 
rosuvastatin, and rifampin) is the critical parameter and needs to be collected as close to the 
exact time point as possible. All other procedures should be completed as close to the 
prescribed/scheduled time as possible, but can be performed prior or after the 
prescribed/scheduled time. 
Any nonscheduled procedures required for urgent evaluation of safety concerns take 
precedence over all routine scheduled procedures. 
10.1 Safety Assessment 
10.1.1 Screening 
Within 28 days prior to the first dosing, medical history and demographic data, including 
name, sex, age, race, ethnicity, body weight (kg), height (cm), and BMI (kg/m2), will be 
recorded. Each subject will have a physical examination, vital sign measurements (heart rate, 
blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate), 12-lead ECG, pulse oximetry, and the 
laboratory tests of hematological, hepatic, and renal function, and additional tests as noted in 
Section 10.1.7. 
10.1.2 Physical Examination 
A physical examination will be performed as per Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). 
Symptom-driven physical examinations may be performed at other times, if deemed 
necessary by the Investigator or designee.  
10.1.3 Vital Signs 
Single measurements of body temperature, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and heart rate, 
will be measured as outlined in the Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). 
Vital signs may be taken at any other times, if deemed necessary. Blood pressure and heart 
rate measurements will be performed with subjects in a seated position for at least 1 minute, 
except when they are supine or semi-reclined because of study procedures and/or adverse 
events (e.g., nausea, dizziness) or if deemed necessary by the Investigator. 
Blood pressure,  heart rate, and respiratory rate will be measured within 24 hours prior to 
Day 1 dosing for the predose time point. When scheduled postdose, vital signs will be 
performed within approximately 10 minutes of the scheduled time point.  
 
 
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10.1.4 ECG Monitoring 
Single 12-lead ECGs will be performed as outlined in the Study Events Flow Chart 
(Section 6). 
ECGs will be performed with subjects in a supine position for at least 5 minutes. All ECG 
tracings will be reviewed by the Study Physician or his/her designee. 
ECGs will be measured within 24 hours prior to Day 1 dosing for the predose time point. 
When scheduled postdose, ECGs will be performed within approximately 20 minutes of the 
scheduled time point. 
A subject will be withdrawn from the study by the Study Physician or his/her designee if, in 
their medical judgment, ECG findings are present which make continued study participation 
not in the subject’s best interest. 
10.1.5 Pulse Oximetry 
Each subject will have a baseline pulse oximetry reading done prior to study drug 
administration and will be monitored continuously for approximately 6 hours with a pulse 
oximeter (oxygen levels, as saturation [%], and heart rate) with readings taken at scheduled 
time points as outlined in the Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). 
Where the time of monitoring coincides with a blood sampling time point, the reading will be 
taken approximately 10 minutes before the scheduled time point. Readings may be taken at 
other times, if deemed necessary by the PI or designee. 
Any oxygen saturation reading deemed clinically significant by the Investigator or designee 
will be documented. 
10.1.6 Rescue Medication 
Administration of midazolam HCl may result in severe AEs including respiratory depression, 
airway obstruction, oxygen desaturation, apnea, and rarely, respiratory and/or cardiac arrest. 
Oxygen and/or specific reversal agents (e.g., flumazenil) will be available as a rescue 
medication in case of any severe midazolam-related events, at the discretion of the Study 
Physician or his/her designee. 
 
 
 
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Merck 
 
 
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10.1.7 Clinical Laboratory Tests 
All tests listed below will be performed as per Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). In 
addition, laboratory safety tests may be performed at various unscheduled time points, if 
deemed necessary by the Investigator. 
Hematology 
 
Serum Chemistry* 
• 
Hemoglobin 
• 
Hematocrit  
• 
Total and differential leukocyte count 
• 
Red blood cell count 
• 
Platelet count 
 
• 
Blood urea nitrogen 
• 
Bilirubin (total and direct)** 
• 
Alkaline phosphatase 
• 
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 
• 
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)  
• 
Albumin 
• 
Sodium 
• 
Potassium 
• 
Chloride 
• 
Glucose (fasting) 
• 
Creatinine 
• 
Creatine phosphokinase 
 
Urinalysis  
 
Additional Tests 
• 
pH 
• 
Specific gravity 
• 
Protein*** 
• 
Glucose 
• 
Ketones 
• 
Bilirubin 
• 
Blood*** 
• 
Nitrite*** 
• 
Urobilinogen 
• 
Leukocyte esterase*** 
 
• 
HIV test 
• 
HBsAg 
• 
HCV 
• 
Urine or saliva drug screen 
 Opiates 
 Amphetamines 
 Cocaine 
 Cannabinoids 
• 
Urine or breath alcohol screen 
• 
Serum pregnancy test  
(for females only) 
• 
FSH (for postmenopausal females only) 
 
* 
Serum chemistry tests will be performed after at least an 8-hour fast; however, in case of 
dropout or rechecks, subjects may not have fasted for 8 hours before the serum chemistry 
sample is taken. 
** Predose samples for total and direct bilirubin will be obtained following a fast of 
approximately 8 hours; however, all postdose samples collected for the assessment of OATP 
1B inhibition are not required to be performed following a fast of approximately 8 hours. 
** If urinalysis is positive for protein, blood, nitrite and/or leukocyte esterase, a microscopic 
examination (red blood cell, white blood cell, bacteria, casts, and, epithelial cells) will be 
performed. For subjects who are anuric, urine samples for urinalysis will not be collected. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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10.1.8 Assessing and Recording Adverse Events  
An adverse event is defined as any untoward medical occurrence in a patient or clinical 
investigation subject administered a pharmaceutical product and which does not necessarily 
have to have a causal relationship with this treatment. An adverse event can therefore be any 
unfavorable and unintended sign (including an abnormal laboratory finding, for example), 
symptom, or disease temporally associated with the use of a medicinal product or 
protocol-specified procedure, whether or not considered related to the medicinal product or 
protocol-specified procedure. Any worsening (i.e., any clinically significant adverse change 
in frequency and/or intensity) of a preexisting condition that is temporally associated with the 
use of the Sponsor’s product, is also an adverse event. 
Changes resulting from normal growth and development that do not vary significantly in 
frequency or severity from expected levels are not to be considered adverse events. Examples 
of this may include, but are not limited to, teething, typical crying in infants and children and 
onset of menses or menopause occurring at a physiologically appropriate time. 
Sponsor's product includes any pharmaceutical product, biological product, device, 
diagnostic agent, or protocol-specified procedure whether investigational (including placebo 
or active comparator medication) or marketed, manufactured by, licensed by, provided by or 
distributed by the Sponsor for human use. 
Adverse events may occur during clinical trials, or as prescribed in clinical practice, from 
overdose (whether accidental or intentional), from abuse, and from withdrawal. 
For allocated subjects only, all adverse events that occur after the consent form is signed but 
before allocation must be reported by Investigator if they are the result of a 
protocol-specified intervention, including but not limited to washout or discontinuation of 
usual therapy, diet, placebo treatment, or a procedure. From the time of allocation through 
14 days following cessation of treatment, all adverse events must be reported by the 
Investigator. Such events will be recorded at each examination on the Adverse Event case 
report forms/worksheets. The reporting timeframe for adverse events meeting any serious 
criteria is described in Section 10.1.8.3.1. The Investigator will make every attempt to follow 
all subjects with non-serious adverse events for outcome. Any unexplained drug-related 
hematuria or evidence of triphosphate crystals should be referred to a nephrologist. 
Electronic reporting procedures can be found in the Electronic Data Capture (EDC) data 
entry guidelines. Paper reporting procedures can be found in the Investigator Trial File 
Binder (or equivalent). 
10.1.8.1 Definition of an Overdose for This Protocol and Reporting of Overdose to the 
Sponsor  
The subject has taken (accidentally or intentionally) any drug administered as part of the 
protocol and exceeding the dose as prescribed by the protocol. It is up to the Investigator or 
 
 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
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the reporting physician to decide whether a dose is to be considered an overdose, in 
consultation with the Sponsor. 
If an adverse event(s) is associated with (“results from”) the overdose of Sponsor's product or 
vaccine, the adverse event(s) is reported as a serious adverse event, even if no other 
seriousness criteria are met. 
If a dose of Sponsor's product or vaccine meeting the protocol definition of overdose is taken 
without any associated clinical symptoms or abnormal laboratory results, the overdose is 
reported as a non-serious Event of Clinical Interest (ECI), using the terminology “accidental 
or intentional overdose without adverse effect.” 
All reports of overdose with or without an adverse event must be reported by the Investigator 
within 24 hours to the Sponsor either by electronic media or paper. Electronic reporting 
procedures can be found in the EDC data entry guidelines. Paper reporting procedures can be 
found in the Investigator Trial File Binder (or equivalent). 
10.1.8.2 Reporting of Pregnancy and Lactation to the Sponsor 
Although pregnancy and lactation are not considered adverse events, it is the responsibility of 
Investigators or their designees to report any pregnancy or lactation in a subject 
(spontaneously reported to them) that occurs during the trial. 
Pregnancies and lactations that occur after the consent form is signed but before allocation 
must be reported by the Investigator if they cause the subject to be excluded from the trial, or 
are the result of a protocol-specified intervention, including but not limited to washout or 
discontinuation of usual therapy, diet, placebo treatment or a procedure. Pregnancies and 
lactations that occur from the time of allocation through 14 days following cessation of 
Sponsor’s product must be reported by the Investigator. All reported pregnancies must be 
followed to the completion/termination of the pregnancy. Pregnancy outcomes of 
spontaneous abortion, missed abortion, benign hydatidiform mole, blighted ovum, fetal 
death, intrauterine death, miscarriage and stillbirth must be reported as serious events 
(Important Medical Events). If the pregnancy continues to term, the outcome (health of 
infant) must also be reported. 
Such events must be reported within 24 hours to the Sponsor either by electronic media or 
paper. Electronic reporting procedures can be found in the EDC data entry guidelines. Paper 
reporting procedures can be found in the Investigator Trial File Binder (or equivalent). 
Pregnant partners of male subjects will not be followed. 
10.1.8.3 Immediate Reporting of Adverse Events 
10.1.8.3.1 Serious Adverse Events  
A serious adverse event is any adverse event occurring at any dose or during any use of 
Sponsor's product that has the following outcome: 
 
 
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• Death 
• Immediately life threatening 
• Persistent or significant disability/incapacity 
• Inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of hospitalization 
• Congenital anomaly/birth defect 
• Other important medical event 
Note: In addition to the above criteria, adverse events meeting either of the below criteria, 
although not serious per ICH definition, are reportable to the Sponsor in the same timeframe 
as serious adverse events to meet certain local requirements. Therefore, these events are 
considered serious by the Sponsor for collection purposes. 
• Cancer 
• Overdose 
Refer to Table 3 for additional details regarding each of the above criteria. 
For the time period beginning when the consent form is signed until treatment allocation, any 
serious adverse event, or follow up to a serious adverse event, including death due to any 
cause, that occurs to any subject must be reported within 24 hours to the Sponsor if it causes 
the subject to be excluded from the trial, or is the result of a protocol-specified intervention, 
including but not limited to washout or discontinuation of usual therapy, diet, placebo 
treatment or a procedure. 
For the time period beginning at treatment allocation through 14 days following cessation of 
treatment, any serious adverse event, or follow up to a serious adverse event, including death 
due to any cause, whether or not related to the Sponsor's product, must be reported within 
24 hours to the Sponsor either by electronic media or paper. Electronic reporting procedures 
can be found in the EDC data entry guidelines. Paper reporting procedures can be found in 
the Investigator Trial File Binder (or equivalent). 
Additionally, any serious adverse event, considered by an Investigator who is a qualified 
physician to be related to the Sponsor's product that is brought to the attention of the 
Investigator at any time outside of the time period specified in the previous paragraph also 
must be reported immediately to the Sponsor. 
All subjects with serious adverse events must be followed up for outcome. 
 
 
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10.1.8.3.2 Events of Clinical Interest 
Selected non-serious and serious adverse events are also known as ECI and must be reported 
to the Sponsor. 
For the time period beginning when the consent form is signed until treatment allocation, any 
ECI, or follow up to an ECI, that occurs to any subject must be reported within 24 hours to 
the Sponsor if it causes the subject to be excluded from the trial, or is the result of a 
protocol-specified intervention, including but not limited to washout or discontinuation of 
usual therapy, diet, placebo treatment or a procedure. 
For the time period beginning at treatment allocation through 14 days following cessation of 
treatment, any ECI, or follow up to an ECI, whether or not related to the Sponsor’s product, 
must be reported within 24 hours to the Sponsor, either by electronic media or paper. 
Electronic reporting procedures can be found in the EDC data entry guidelines. Paper 
reporting procedures can be found in the Investigator Trial File Binder (or equivalent). 
Events of clinical interest for this trial include: 
• an overdose of Sponsor's product, as defined in Section 10.1.8.1 that is not associated 
with clinical symptoms or abnormal laboratory results.  
• an elevated AST or ALT laboratory value that is greater than or equal to three times 
(3X) the upper limit of normal (ULN) and an elevated total bilirubin laboratory value 
that is greater than or equal to 2X the ULN and, at the same time, an alkaline 
phosphatase laboratory value that is less than 2X the ULN, as determined by way of 
protocol-specified laboratory testing or unscheduled laboratory testing.*  
*Note:  These criteria are based upon available regulatory guidance documents. The 
purpose of the criteria is to specify a threshold of abnormal hepatic tests that may 
require an additional evaluation for an underlying etiology. The trial site guidance for 
assessment and follow up of these criteria can be found in the Investigator Trial File 
Binder or equivalent. 
10.1.8.4 Evaluating Adverse Events 
An Investigator who is a qualified physician will evaluate all adverse events with respect to 
the elements outlined in Table 3. The Investigator’s assessment of causality is required for 
each adverse event. Refer to Table 3 or instructions in evaluating adverse events. 
 
 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Table 3: 
Evaluating Adverse Events 
Maximum 
Intensity 
(Severity) 
Mild 
awareness of sign or symptom, but easily tolerated (for pediatric trials, awareness of 
symptom, but easily tolerated) 
Moderate 
discomfort enough to cause interference with usual activity (for pediatric trials, 
definitely acting like something is wrong) 
Severe 
incapacitating with inability to work or do usual activity (for pediatric trials, 
extremely distressed or unable to do usual activities) 
Seriousness 
A serious adverse event is any adverse event occurring at any dose or during any use of Sponsor's 
product that: 
None 
†Death; or 
†Immediately life threatening; or places the subject, in the view of the Investigator, at immediate risk 
of death from the event as it occurred [Note:  This does not include an adverse event that, had it 
occurred in a more severe form, might have caused death.]; or 
†Persistent or significant disability/incapacity (substantial disruption of one’s ability to conduct 
normal life functions); or 
†Inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of hospitalization (hospitalization is defined as an 
inpatient admission, regardless of length of stay, even if the hospitalization is a precautionary measure 
for continued observation. (Note:  Hospitalization [including hospitalization for an elective procedure] 
for a preexisting condition which has not worsened does not constitute a serious adverse event.); or 
†Congenital anomaly/birth defect (in offspring of subject taking the product regardless of time to 
diagnosis); or 
Cancer; or 
Overdose (whether accidental or intentional). Any adverse event associated with an overdose is 
considered a serious adverse event. An overdose that is not associated with an adverse event is 
considered a non-serious event of clinical interest and must be reported within 24 hours. 
Other important medical event that may not result in death, not be life threatening, or not require 
hospitalization may be considered a serious adverse event when, based upon appropriate medical 
judgment, the event may jeopardize the subject and may require medical or surgical intervention to 
prevent one of the outcomes listed previously (designated above by a †). 
Duration 
Record the start and stop dates of the adverse event. If less than 1 day, indicate the appropriate length of 
time and units. 
Action Taken  
The action taken is in reference to the either the Sponsor’s Product or the Interacting Drug. Did the 
adverse event cause the Sponsor's product or the Interacting Drug to be: 
None 
Reduced 
Interrupted 
Discontinued 
Increased  
Not Applicable 
Unknown 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Relationship 
to 
Sponsor's 
Product 
Did the Sponsor's product cause the adverse event? The determination of the likelihood that the 
Sponsor's product caused the adverse event will be provided by an Investigator who is a qualified 
physician. The Investigator’s signed/dated initials on the source document or worksheet that supports 
the causality noted on the adverse event form, ensures that a medically qualified assessment of causality 
was done. This initialled document must be retained for the required regulatory time frame. The criteria 
below are intended as reference guidelines to assist the Investigator in assessing the likelihood of a 
relationship between the test drug and the adverse event based upon the available information. 
Relationship 
to 
Sponsor's 
Product 
(continued) 
The following components are to be used to assess the relationship between the Sponsor's product 
and the adverse event; the greater the correlation with the components and their respective elements 
(in number and/or intensity), the more likely the Sponsor's product caused the adverse event: 
Exposure 
Is there evidence that the subject was actually exposed to the Sponsor's product such 
as:  reliable history, acceptable compliance assessment (pill count, diary, etc.), 
expected pharmacologic effect, or measurement of drug/metabolite in bodily 
specimen? 
Time Course 
Did the adverse event follow in a reasonable temporal sequence from administration 
of the Sponsor's product?  
Is the time of onset of the adverse event compatible with a drug-induced effect 
(applies to trials with investigational medicinal product)? 
Likely Cause 
Is the adverse event not reasonably explained by another etiology such as underlying 
disease, other drug(s)/vaccine(s), or other host or environmental factors 
Dechallenge 
Was the Sponsor's product discontinued or dose/exposure/frequency reduced? 
If yes, did the adverse event resolve or improve? 
If yes, this is a positive dechallenge. If no, this is a negative dechallenge. 
(Note:  This criterion is not applicable if:  (1) the adverse event resulted in death or 
permanent disability; (2) the adverse event resolved/improved despite continuation 
of the Sponsor's product; (3) the trial is a single-dose drug trial; or (4) Sponsor's 
product(s) is/are only used one time.) 
Rechallenge 
Was the subject re-exposed to the Sponsor's product in this trial? 
If yes, did the adverse event recur or worsen? 
If yes, this is a positive rechallenge. If no, this is a negative rechallenge. 
(Note:  This criterion is not applicable if:  (1) the initial adverse event resulted in 
death or permanent disability, or (2) the trial is a single-dose drug trial; or (3) 
Sponsor's product(s) is/are used only one time.) 
NOTE:  IF A RECHALLENGE IS PLANNED FOR AN ADVERSE EVENT 
WHICH WAS SERIOUS AND WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE 
SPONSOR'S PRODUCT, OR IF RE-EXPOSURE TO THE SPONSOR'S 
PRODUCT POSES ADDITIONAL POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANT RISK TO THE 
SUBJECT THEN THE RECHALLENGE MUST BE APPROVED IN ADVANCE 
BY THE U.S. CLINICAL MONITOR AND THE INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW 
BOARD/INDEPENDENT ETHICS COMMITTEE. 
Consistency 
with Trial 
Treatment 
Profile 
Is the clinical/pathological presentation of the adverse event consistent with previous 
knowledge regarding the Sponsor's product or drug class pharmacology or 
toxicology? 
The assessment of relationship will be reported on the case report forms /worksheets by an Investigator who is a qualified 
physician according to his/her best clinical judgment, including consideration of the above elements. 
Record one of the following: 
Use the following scale of criteria as guidance (not all criteria must be present to 
be indicative of a Sponsor's product relationship). 
Related (there is a reasonable 
possibility of Sponsor's product 
relationship) 
There is evidence of exposure to the Sponsor's product. The temporal sequence of 
the adverse event onset relative to the administration of the Sponsor's product is 
reasonable. The adverse event is more likely explained by the Sponsor's product than 
by another cause. 
 
 
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Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
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Merck 
 
 
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Not Related (there is not a 
reasonable possibility of 
Sponsor's product relationship) 
Subject did not receive the Sponsor's product OR temporal sequence of the adverse 
event onset relative to administration of the Sponsor's product is not reasonable OR 
there is another obvious cause of the adverse event. (Also entered for a subject with 
overdose without an associated adverse event.) 
10.1.8.5 Sponsor Responsibility for Reporting Adverse Events  
All adverse events will be reported to regulatory authorities, IRB or independent ethics 
committees (IECs), and Investigators in accordance with all applicable global laws and 
regulations i.e., per ICH Topic E6 (R1) Guidelines for Good Clinical Practice. 
10.2 Pharmacokinetic and Biomarker Assessments 
10.2.1 Blood Sampling and Processing 
For all subjects, blood samples for the determination of all plasma pharmacokinetic analytes 
(rifampin, midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 2-OH 
atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin) will be collected and processed according 
to Appendix 3, Appendix 4, and Appendix 5 at scheduled time points as delineated in the 
Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). 
The following windows will be used for pharmacokinetic blood collection and biomarker 
samples time points: 
Sample collection time 
Allowed deviation 
0.0 – 8.0 hour 
≤± 2 minutes 
>8.0 – 24.0 hour 
≤± 5 minutes 
>24.0 – 72.0 hour 
≤± 10 minutes 
For all subjects, blood samples for the determination of all biomarkers in serum and plasma, 
as appropriate, (serum total and direct bilirubin, serum creatinine, plasma coproporhyrin I 
and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, CMPF, GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, 
and TCDA-S) will be collected and processed according to Appendix 9 at scheduled time 
points as delineated in the Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). Additional biomarkers may 
be evaluated to measure uremic toxins/biomarkers. 
10.2.2 
Urine Collection 
Prior to the pre-dose sample, each subject will be instructed as to urine collection methods.  
Urine samples for determination of dabigatran and rosuvastatin concentrations will be 
collected and processed according to Appendix 6 and for the determination of all biomarkers 
in urine (coproporhyrin I and III, p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and CMPF) will be 
collected and processed according to Appendix 10 at selected intervals as delineated in the 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 62 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6).  
For subjects with renal impairment, urine samples will be collected whenever possible, as 
they may not be able to produce urine at each interval. For subjects who are anuric, urine 
samples will not be collected. 
On Day 1, a spot collection will be obtained prior to dosing for the pre-dose sample. Subjects 
will be asked again to empty their bladder within approximately 15 minutes prior to dosing, 
and no urine will be collected at this time unless it is needed for the pre-dose sample. Only 
one pre-dose urine sample will be collected on Day 1. 
For 24 hours after each dosing, all urine will be collected completely. Urine portions will be 
pooled per subject within any planned collection interval. Just prior to the end of each 
sampling interval, subjects will be encouraged to void their bladder again to complete the 
collection. If they do void at any time during the collection interval, the time should be 
documented. Should this be the case, subjects need to attempt to void again at the end of the 
collection period, as scheduled. However, should subjects be unable to void, this will be 
documented as well. 
Urine will be refrigerated during the collection intervals. The weight of an empty urine 
collection container and total weight of urine collected during each timed interval will be 
recorded. 
10.3 Planned Genetic Analysis Sample Collection 
Sample collection, storage and shipment instructions for Planned Genetic Analysis samples 
will be provided in the Appendix 7. 
10.4 Future Biomedical Research Samples  
The following samples will be collected for Future Biomedical Research:  
• DNA for future research 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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10.5 Blood Volume Drawn for Study Assessments 
Table 4: 
Blood Volume Drawn During the Study 
Sample Type 
Number 
of Time 
Points 
Approximate 
Volume per 
Time Point * 
(mL) 
Approximate 
Sample Volume 
Over Course of 
Study 
(mL) 
Handling 
Instructions 
Screening laboratory safety tests 
(including hematology, serum 
chemistry, serology), FSH (for 
postmenopausal female subjects 
only) and serum pregnancy (for 
female subjects only). 
1 
11 
11 
Reliable 
(Local Lab) 
Blood for Planned Genetic Analysis 
1 
8.5 
8.5 
Appendix 7 
On-study hematology and serum 
chemistry (this includes serum 
pregnancy for female subjects only 
when scheduled at the same time) 
4 
9 
36 
Reliable 
(Local Lab) 
Blood for serum total and direct 
bilirubin 
16 
2 
32 
PPD 
(Central Lab) 
(Appendix 9) 
Blood for serum creatinine 
16 
2 
32 
PPD 
(Central Lab) 
(Appendix 9) 
Blood for plasma coproporhyrin I 
and III 
16 
2 
32 
PPD 
(Appendix 9) 
Blood for plasma p-cresol sulfate, 
indoxyl sulfate, and CMPF  
16 
2 
32 
TMB/MRL  
(Appendix 9) 
Blood for plasma GDCA-S, 
GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and 
TCDA-S 
16 
2 
32 
Metabolon 
(Appendix 9) 
Blood for free dabigatran and 
midazolam 
32 
4 
128 
Appendix 3 
Blood for pitavastatin (and 
metabolite), atorvastatin (and 
metabolites), and rosuvastatin 
32 
3 
96 
Appendix 4 
 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 64 
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Sample Type 
Number 
of Time 
Points 
Approximate 
Volume per 
Time Point * 
(mL) 
Approximate 
Sample Volume 
Over Course of 
Study 
(mL) 
Handling 
Instructions 
Blood for rifampin 
10 
3 
30 
Appendix 5 
Blood for protein binding^ 
1 
3 
3 
TMB/MRL 
(Appendix 9) 
Total Blood Volume for all Subjects except ESRD (mL)→ 
472.5§ 
 
Total Blood Volume for Subjects with ESRD (mL)→ 
442.5§ 
 
* Represents the largest collection tube that may be used for this (a smaller tube may be used). 
§ If additional safety, pharmacokinetic, or pharmacodynamic analysis is necessary or if larger collection tubes 
are required to obtain sufficient plasma/serum for analysis, additional blood may be obtained (up to a 
maximum of 50 mL). 
^    Protein binding (plasma) assays will be performed on predose samples from Period 1. 
 
 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 65 
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11 DATA ANALYSIS 
11.1 Pharmacokinetic Parameters 
11.1.1 
Plasma 
Pharmacokinetic parameters for all plasma analytes (rifampin, midazolam, dabigatran, 
pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 4-OH atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, and 
rosuvastatin) will be calculated as follows: 
AUC0-last: 
Area under the concentration versus time curve, from 0 to the time of the 
last quantifiable (above LLOQ) sample. 
AUC0-∞: 
Area under the concentration versus time curve from 0 to infinity after 
single dosing. 
AUC0-24: 
Area under the concentration versus time curve, from 0 to 24 hours after 
dosing (dabigatran and rosuvastatin only). 
CL/F: 
Apparent clearance after extravascular administration (parent only). 
Cmax: 
Maximum observed plasma concentration after the administration of a 
given dose. 
C24: 
Plasma concentration at 24 hours. 
Tmax: 
Time to maximum observed plasma drug concentration. 
t½: 
(Apparent) terminal half-life. 
Vz/F: 
Apparent volume of distribution during the terminal phase (parent only) 
No value for AUC0-∞, CL/F, Vz/F, and apparent terminal t½, will be reported for cases that 
do not exhibit a terminal log-linear phase in the concentration versus time profile. 
11.1.2 
Urine 
Pharmacokinetic parameters for urine dabigatran and rosuvastatin will be calculated as 
follows: 
Ae0-24: 
Total amount of drug excreted unchanged in the urine over the period of 
24 hours, obtained by adding the amounts excreted over each collection 
interval. 
CLr: 
Renal clearance calculated as Ae(t’-t”)/AUC(t’-t”) where t’-t” is the longest 
interval of time during which Ae and plasma AUC are both obtained.  
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
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fe: 
Fraction of drug excretion during each collection interval. Obtained by 
dividing the amount of drug excreted in each collection interval by the time 
over which it was collected. 
11.2 Statistical Methods 
The statistical analysis of the data obtained from this study will be the responsibility of the 
Data Management and Biometrics department at Celerion. 
If, after the study has begun, changes are made to the statistical analysis plan stated below, 
then these deviations to the plan will be listed, along with an explanation as to why they 
occurred, in the Clinical Study Report (CSR). 
Additional statistical analyses, other than those described in this section, may be performed if 
deemed appropriate. 
11.2.1 Determination of Sample Size 
Source of Variance Estimates: 
There are no available in-house pharmacokinetic data for most substrates in RI subjects, and 
the data published in the literature is limited in its usefulness for sample size planning in that 
relevant parameters are not provided or are not provided on the log scale except for 
Dabigitran. We assumed that the variances for substrates in RI subjects is the same as those 
in healthy subjects. 
Midazolam: 
The estimates of within-subject variability for midazolam AUC0-∞ were obtained from prior 
Merck studies investigating the effects of a therapeutic agent on the single dose 
pharmacokinetics of midazolam including MK-0633-004, MK-0869-088, MK-1006-003, 
MK-4305-015, MK-6096-005, MK-7009-010, MK-0974-020, MK-0974-041, MK-0518-016, 
MK-0524-051, MK-6186-004, MK-0364-010, and MK-0869-155. The pooled estimate for 
the within-subject standard deviation (SD) for midazolam AUC0-∞ is 0.1834. From the 
previous microdose study conducted by Merck in healthy subjects, the within-subject 
coefficient of variation (CV) for AUC0-∞ was 0.31 when midazolam was given with and 
without rifampin. 
Dabigitran: 
In an effort to provide some guidance for the precision and power associated with this study, 
the published data involving oral dabigitran in RI subjects have been reviewed 18. The CV for 
severe RI subjects is 0.61 for AUC0-∞ in this study. In addition, there is 1.5 (mild RI subject 
vs healthy subjects) to 6.5 (severe RI subject vs healthy subjects) fold differences in AUC0-
∞ level based on this study. From the previous microdose study conducted by Merck in 
healthy subjects, the within-subject CV for AUC0-∞ was 0.228 when dabigatran was given 
with and without rifampin. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 67 
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Pitavastatin: 
An estimate of within-subject variability for pitavastatin is derived from an earlier Merck 
study, MK-7009-051 in which pitavastatin was given with and without rifampin. The CV for 
the GMR for AUC0-∞ from this study was 0.214. From the previous microdose study 
conducted by Merck in healthy subjects, the within-subject CV for AUC0-∞ was 0.10 when 
pitavastatin was given with and without rifampin. There is no significant exposure difference 
between RI subject (mild, moderate, and severe) and healthy subjects in related published 
literature. 
Atorvastatin: 
An estimate of within-subject variability for atorvastatin is derived from earlier Merck 
studies, specifically MK-5172-032, MK-0431E-212, and MK-0431E-214. The pooled 
estimate of the within-subject standard deviation of the log AUC0-∞ values is 0.216 for 
atorvastatin. From the previous microdose study conducted by Merck in healthy subjects, the 
within-subject CV for AUC0-∞ was 0.185 when atorvastatin was given with and without 
rifampin. 
Rosuvastatin: 
An estimate of within-subject variability for rosuvastatin is derived from an earlier Merck 
study, MK-7009-051 in which rosuvastatin was given with and without rifampin. The CV for 
the GMR for AUC0-∞ from this study was 0.32. From the previous microdose study 
conducted by Merck in healthy subjects, the within-subject CV for AUC0-∞ was 0.25 when 
rosuvastatin was given with and without rifampin. 
The sample size selected for each population to evaluate the effect of renal impairment on the 
pharmacokinetics of MK-7264 was not chosen to satisfy any a priori statistical requirement. 
This sample size (N= 6 per group) has historically been shown to be sufficient for studies of 
this type and should provide adequate data to support the planned analyses. Nevertheless, 
estimates of the expected precision of the estimates, based on these sample sizes are 
presented below. 
Sample Size and Power: 
Six subjects/subjects will be enrolled in each group (i.e., healthy, mild, moderate, severe 
without dialysis). To evaluate the DDI between each substrate in the microdose cocktail and 
rifampin, the comparisons will be within subject. The within subject CV varied from 0.1 to 
0.6 for the various groups based on internal and external published data. Clinically 
meaningful true fold increases in AUC0-∞ of 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-fold were assumed for the 
power calculations. Table 5 below shows the power calculations for the various combinations 
of assumed values for hypotheses, assuming N=6. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 68 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Table 5: 
Power Calculations for True Fold Increases by Within Subject CV 
True Fold 
Within subject CV 
Power 
2 
0.1 
>0.99 
 
0.3 
0.83 
 
0.6 
0.39 
3 
0.1 
>0.99 
 
0.3 
>0.99 
 
0.6 
0.82 
4 
0.1 
>0.99 
 
0.3 
>0.99 
 
0.6 
>0.99 
5 
0.1 
>0.99 
 
0.3 
>0.99 
 
0.6 
>0.99 
11.2.2 Subjects to Analyze 
The decision as to which plasma samples collected will be assayed for evaluation of 
pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics will be collaboratively determined by the Departments 
of Quantitative Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics and the appropriate department within 
Early-Stage Development. If indicated, these samples may also be assayed and/or pooled for 
assay in an exploratory manner for metabolites and/or additional pharmacodynamic markers. 
The following populations are defined for the analysis and reporting of data. All subjects will 
be reported, and their data analyzed, according to the treatment(s) they actually received. 
All Subjects as Treated:  All subjects who received at least one dose of the investigational 
drug(s). This population will be used for assessments of safety and tolerability. 
Per-Protocol:  The set of data generated by the subset of subjects who comply with the 
protocol sufficiently to ensure that these data will be likely to exhibit the effects of treatment, 
according to the underlying scientific model. Compliance covers such considerations as 
exposure to treatment, availability of measurements and absence of major protocol 
violations. Any subjects or data values excluded from analysis will be identified, along with 
their reason for exclusion, in the CSR. At the end of the study, all subjects who are compliant 
with the study procedure as aforementioned and have available data will be included in the 
primary analysis dataset. This population will be used for the pharmacokinetic analyses. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 69 
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11.2.3 Descriptive Statistics 
Non-model based descriptive statistics will be provided for all plasma analytes (rifampin, 
midazolam, dabigatran, pitavastatin, pitavastatin lactone, atorvastatin, 2-OH atorvastatin, 
4-OH atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin) and urine analytes (rosuvastatin and dabigatran) 
pharmacokinetic parameters by subject group. The following (non-model-based) descriptive 
statistics will be provided: N (number of subjects with non-missing data), arithmetic mean, 
standard deviation, arithmetic percent CV (calculated as 100 x standard deviation/arithmetic 
mean), median, minimum, maximum, geometric mean, and geometric percent CV (calculated 
as 100 x sqrt( exp(s2) - 1), where s2 is the observed variance on the natural log-scale). 
11.2.4 Analysis Overview 
11.2.4.1 Primary Analyses 
Objective 1: 
This analysis will include Period 1 data only. Separate ANOVA models will be constructed 
for each substrate in the microdose cocktail. Each model will include the natural logarithm of 
the AUC0-∞ data as the dependent variable and a fixed effect term for subject group (healthy 
subjects, mild, moderate, severe RI subjects, and ESRD subjects). AUC0-∞ will be compared 
between each RI subject group and the healthy subject group by constructing the appropriate 
contrasts from the model and computing the GMRs and corresponding 95% confidence 
intervals. Sample SAS code is given below: 
proc mixed data=dataset; 
class group; 
model endpoint = group /ddfm=kr; 
lsmeans group / CIalpha = 0.05 
run; 
Similar analyses will be conducted for the following pharmacokinetic parameters: AUC0-24, 
AUC0-last, Cmax, and C24. For the other pharmacokinetic parameters, appropriate summary 
statistics will be provided. 
Objectives 2 to 6: 
This analysis will include data from Period 1 and Period 2. This analysis will not include data 
from the ESRD subjects as they will not have received rifampin in Period 2. A linear 
mixed-effects model will be used and separate models will be constructed for each substrate 
in the microdose cocktail. Each model will include the natural logarithm of the AUC0-∞ data 
as the dependent variable, with a fixed effect term for treatment (microdose only or 
microdose+rifampin), subject group (healthy subjects, mild, moderate, or severe RI subjects 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 70 
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only) and the interaction of the terms. An unstructured covariance matrix will be used to 
allow for unequal treatment variances and to model the correlation between the treatment 
measurements within each subject via the REPEATED statement in SAS PROC MIXED.  
Kenward and Roger's method will be used to calculate the denominator degrees of freedom 
for the fixed effects (using the DDFM=KR option in SAS). The pharmacokinetic parameters 
will be compared between the different groups by constructing the appropriate contrasts from 
the model. Sample SAS code is given below: 
proc mixed data=dataset; 
class treatment group subject; 
model endpoint = treatment group treatment*group /ddfm=kr; 
repeated treatment / subject=subject type=un; 
run; 
For each substrate in the microdose cocktail, the GMRs and corresponding 95% confidence 
intervals for the comparison of microdose cocktail + rifampin vs. microdose cocktail alone in 
each group of subjects will be computed from the model. 
Similar analyses will be conducted for the following pharmacokinetic parameters: AUC0-24, 
AUC0-last, Cmax, and C24. For the other pharmacokinetic parameters, appropriate summary 
statistics will be provided. 
Plots with the individual ratios, GMR and 95% confidence intervals will be provided for 
AUC0-24, AUC0-last, AUC0-∞, Cmax, and C24. 
11.2.4.2 Secondary Analyses 
Secondary objectives will estimate the effect of rifampin on the single oral dose 
pharmacokinetics (AUC0-last, Cmax, and C24) using the same statistical models that were 
used to address the primary objectives 2 through 6. These models will be used to estimate the 
differences with/without rifampin for each substrate. For example, from the model 
constructed for midazolam, a between treatment comparison of midazolam+rifampin and 
midazolam will be made for each subject group (except subjects with ESRD). In addition, a 
comparison of the extent of the DDI between rifampin and each of the 5 substrates in the 
microdose cocktail between healthy subjects and each category of RI subjects (with the 
exception of the ESRD) will be conducted by providing the appropriate GMRs and 95% 
confidence intervals. 
A mixed effects model with period as fixed effect and subject as random effect will be used 
to assess the impact of dialysis on the pharmacokinetic parameters of each of the substrates 
in the microdose cocktail by comparing the pharmacokinetics parameters in Period 1 verses 
Period 2 in the ESRD subjects. 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 71 
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11.2.4.3 Exploratory Analyses for Biomarkers 
The exploratory objectives will be evaluated using the same statistical models that were used 
to address the primary and secondary objectives. Although no formal hypotheses will be 
tested, these models will be used to estimate the between-group differences amongst each 
substrate/perpetrator combination within a substrate. 
11.3 Safety Evaluation 
The safety will be evaluated by clinical assessment of adverse events and other safety 
measurements. Summary statistics for the laboratory safety tests, ECGs, pulse oximetry, 
and/or vital signs may also be computed and provided, as deemed clinically appropriate. 
 
 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 72 
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12 STUDY ADMINISTRATION 
12.1 Ethics 
12.1.1 Institutional Review Board 
This protocol will be reviewed by the Chesapeake Research Review, Inc. IRB, and the study 
will not start until the IRB has approved the protocol or a modification thereof. The IRB is 
constituted and operates in accordance with the principles and requirements described in the 
US Code of Federal Regulations (21 CFR Part 56). The IRB is compliant with the 
International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). 
12.1.2 Ethical Conduct of the Study 
This research will be carried out in accordance with the protocol, US Code of Federal 
Regulations, Good Clinical Practices (GCP), 21 CFR Parts 50, 56, and 312, the ethical 
principles set forth in the Declaration of Helsinki, and the ICH harmonized tripartite 
guideline regarding GCP (E6 Consolidated Guidance, April 1996). 
12.1.3 Subject Information and Consent 
The purpose of the study, the procedures to be carried out and the potential hazards will be 
described to the subjects in non-technical terms. Subjects will be required to read, sign and 
date an ICF summarizing the discussion prior to screening, and will be assured that they may 
withdraw from the study at any time without jeopardizing their medical care. 
Subjects will be given a copy of their ICF. 
The initial ICF, any subsequent revised written informed consent form and any written 
information provided to the subject must receive the IRB approval/favorable opinion in 
advance of use. The subject should be informed in a timely manner if new information 
becomes available that may be relevant to the subject’s willingness to continue participation 
in the trial. The communication of this information will be provided and documented via a 
revised consent form or addendum to the original consent form that captures the subject’s 
dated signature. 
The informed consent will adhere to IRB/Ethics Research Committee (ERC) requirements, 
applicable laws and regulations and Sponsor requirements. 
12.1.4 Consent and Collection of Specimens for Future Biomedical Research 
The Investigator or qualified designee will explain the Future Biomedical Research consent 
to the subject, answer all of his/her questions, and obtain written informed consent before 
performing any procedure related to the Future Biomedical Research sub-trial. A copy of the 
informed consent will be given to the subject. 
 
 
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12.2 Termination of the Study 
Celerion and/or Merck reserve the right to terminate the study in the interest of subject 
welfare. 
12.2.1 Clinical Criteria for Early Trial Termination 
There are no pre-specified criteria for terminating the trial early. 
12.3 Data Quality Assurance 
Standard operating procedures are available for all activities performed at Celerion relevant 
to the quality of this study. Designated personnel of Celerion will be responsible for 
implementing and maintaining quality assurance and quality control systems to ensure that 
the trial is conducted, and that data are generated, documented and reported in compliance 
with the study protocol, GCP and Good Laboratory Practice requirements as well as 
applicable regulatory requirements and local laws, rules and regulations relating to the 
conduct of the clinical study. 
The CSR will be audited by the quality assurance (QA) department and the QA audit 
certificate will be included in the study report. 
All clinical data will undergo a 100% quality control check prior to clinical database lock. 
Edit checks are then performed for appropriate databases as a validation routine using SAS® 
to check for missing data, data inconsistencies, data ranges etc. Corrections are made prior to 
database lock. 
Case Report Forms (CRFs) are printed off directly from the database. Each CRF is reviewed 
and signed by the Investigator. 
12.4 Data Management 
The Investigator or qualified designee is responsible for recording and verifying the accuracy 
of subject data. By signing this protocol, the Investigator acknowledges that his/her 
electronic signature is the legally binding equivalent of a written signature. By entering 
his/her electronic signature, the Investigator confirms that all recorded data have been 
verified as accurate. 
Detailed information regarding Data Management procedures will be outlined in Celerion 
Data Management Plan. 
12.5 Direct Access to Source Data/Documents 
Celerion will ensure that the Sponsor, IRB and inspection by domestic and foreign regulatory 
authorities will have direct access to all trial-related sites, source data/documents, and reports 
for the purpose of monitoring and auditing (ICH[E6] 5.1.2 & 6.10). In the event that other 
 
 
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trial-related monitoring should be done by other parties, they will be required to sign a 
confidentiality agreement prior to any monitoring and auditing. 
12.6 Drug Supplies, Packaging and Labeling 
The Sponsor will supply sufficient quantities of atorvastatin calcium trihydrate, pitavastatin 
calcium, rosuvastatin calcium, and dabigatran etexilate mesylate reference standard to allow 
completion of this study.  Celerion or sites will purchase midazolam 2 mg/mL syrup and 
rifampin 300-mg capsules from commercially available supplies. The lot numbers and 
expiration dates (where available) of the drugs supplied will be recorded in the final report. 
Records will be made of the receipt and dispensing of the drugs supplied. At the conclusion 
of the study, any unused drugs will be returned to the Sponsor unless otherwise specified by 
the Sponsor. If no supplies remain, this fact will be documented in the pharmacy product 
accountability records. 
12.7 Data Handling and Record Keeping 
Celerion’s Merck library CRFs will be supplied. 
12.8 Report Format 
According to the ICH Harmonized Tripartite Guideline (Organization of the Common 
Technical Document for the Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use M4 and the 
ICH M2 Expert Working Group), the final report will be written according to the 
ICH E3 Guideline (Structure and Content of Clinical Study Reports). 
12.9 Compliance with Law, Audit, and Debarment 
By signing this protocol, the Investigator agrees to conduct the trial in an efficient and 
diligent manner and in conformance with this protocol; generally accepted standards of GCP 
(e.g., International Conference on Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration 
of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use Good Clinical Practice:  Consolidated Guideline and 
other generally accepted standards of good clinical practice); and all applicable federal, state 
and local laws, rules and regulations relating to the conduct of the clinical trial. 
The Code of Conduct, a collection of goals and considerations that govern the ethical and 
scientific conduct of clinical investigations sponsored by Merck, is provided in Appendix 1. 
The Investigator also agrees to allow monitoring, audits, IRB/ERC review and regulatory 
authority inspection of trial-related documents and procedures and provide for direct access 
to all trial-related source data and documents. 
The Investigator agrees not to seek reimbursement from subjects, their insurance providers or 
from government programs for procedures included as part of the trial reimbursed to the 
Investigator by the Sponsor. 
 
 
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The Investigator shall prepare and maintain complete and accurate trial documentation in 
compliance with GCP standards and applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and 
regulations; and, for each subject participating in the trial, provide all data, and, upon 
completion or termination of the clinical trial, submit any other reports to the Sponsor as 
required by this protocol or as otherwise required pursuant to any agreement with the 
Sponsor. 
Trial documentation will be promptly and fully disclosed to the Sponsor by the Investigator 
upon request and also shall be made available at the trial site upon request for inspection, 
copying, review and audit at reasonable times by representatives of the Sponsor or any 
regulatory authorities. The Investigator agrees to promptly take any reasonable steps that are 
requested by the Sponsor as a result of an audit to cure deficiencies in the trial documentation 
and worksheets/case report forms. 
The Investigator must maintain copies of all documentation and records relating to the 
conduct of the trial in compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements. This 
documentation includes, but is not limited to, the protocol, worksheets/case report forms, 
advertising for subject participation, adverse event reports, subject source data, 
correspondence with regulatory authorities and IRBs/ERCs, consent forms, Investigator’s 
curricula vitae, monitor visit logs, laboratory reference ranges, laboratory certification or 
quality control procedures and laboratory director curriculum vitae. By signing this protocol, 
the Investigator agrees that documentation shall be retained until at least 2 years after the last 
approval of a marketing application in an ICH region or until there are no pending or 
contemplated marketing applications in an ICH region or until at least 2 years have elapsed 
since the formal discontinuation of clinical development of the investigational product. 
Because the clinical development and marketing application process is variable, it is 
anticipated that the retention period can be up to 15 years or longer after protocol database 
lock. The Sponsor will determine the minimum retention period and notify the Investigator 
when documents may be destroyed. The Sponsor will determine the minimum retention 
period and upon request, will provide guidance to the investigator when documents no longer 
need to be retained.  The sponsor also recognizes that documents may need to be retained for 
a longer period if required by local regulatory requirements. All trial documents shall be 
made available if required by relevant regulatory authorities. The Investigator must consult 
with and obtain written approval by the Sponsor prior to destroying trial and/or subject files. 
ICH GCP guidelines recommend that the Investigator inform the subject’s primary physician 
about the subject’s participation in the trial if the subject has a primary physician and if the 
subject agrees to the primary physician being informed. 
The Investigator will promptly inform the Sponsor of any regulatory authority inspection 
conducted for this trial. 
Persons debarred from conducting or working on clinical trials by any court or regulatory 
authority will not be allowed to conduct or work on this Sponsor’s trials. The Investigator 
will immediately disclose in writing to the Sponsor if any person who is involved in 
 
 
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conducting the trial is debarred or if any proceeding for debarment is pending or, to the best 
of the Investigator’s knowledge, threatened. 
In the event the Sponsor prematurely terminates a particular trial site, the Sponsor will 
promptly notify that trial site’s IRB/IEC. 
According to European legislation, a Sponsor must designate an overall coordinating 
Investigator for a multi-center trial (including multinational). When more than one trial site is 
open in an EU country, Merck, as the Sponsor, will designate, per country, a national 
principal coordinator (Protocol CI), responsible for coordinating the work of the Principal 
Investigators at the different trial sites in that Member State, according to national 
regulations. For a single-center trial, the Protocol CI is the Principal Investigator. In addition, 
the Sponsor must designate a principal or coordinating Investigator to review the trial report 
that summarizes the trial results and confirm that, to the best of his/her knowledge, the report 
accurately describes the conduct and results of the trial [CSR CI]. The Sponsor may consider 
one or more factors in the selection of the individual to serve as the Protocol CI and or CSR 
CI (e.g., availability of the Protocol/CSR CI during the anticipated review process, thorough 
understanding of clinical trial methods, appropriate enrollment of subject cohort, timely 
achievement of trial milestones). The Protocol CI must be a participating trial Investigator. 
12.10 Publication Policy 
The Sponsor will provide separate guidance on the criteria for publication of clinical trial 
data when contacted for permission to publish. 
12.11 Privacy Notice 
In order to comply with government regulations governing clinical studies, as well as 
ICH GCP 3.2.1, Merck & Co., Inc., and its corporate affiliates ("Sponsor"), is required to 
record the name and address of each IRB or IEC member that reviews and approves this 
study. The Sponsor is also required to document that each IRB or IEC meets regulatory and 
ICH GCP requirements by requesting and maintaining records of the names and 
qualifications of the IRB/IEC members and to make these records available for regulatory 
agency review upon request by those agencies (ICH GCP 8.2.8). 
 
 
 
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13 REFERENCES 
1. Sun H, Frasseto L, Benet LZ. Effects of renal failure on drug transport and metabolism. 
Pharmacol Therap. 2006;109:1–11. 
2. Prueksaritanont T, et al. Validation of a microdose probe drug cocktail for clinical drug 
interaction assessments for drug transporters and CYP3A. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 
2017;101(4):519-530. 
3. Midazolam hydrochloride syrup, full prescribing information (electronic monograph) 
published 
on 
the 
Boehringer 
Ingelheim/Roxane 
Laboratories, 
Inc. 
website 
(documentrevised: SEP/2012). 
4. Pradaxa® (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) capsules, monograph by Boehringer Ingelheim 
Pharmaceuticals, Inc, full prescribing information (electronic monograph / revised 
November 2015) published on the FDA website. 
5. Hankey GJ, Eiklboom JW. Dabigatran Etexilate – A New Oral Thrombin Inhibitor. 
Circulation 2011;123:1436-1450. 
6. NDA 22-512 for Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH dabigatran etexilate mesylate (Pradaxa®) 
110 and 150 mg capsules.  
7. Lipitor® (atorvastatin calcium) tablets, monograph by Pfizer, full prescribing 
information(electronic monograph / revised 2015) published on the FDA website. 
8. Neuvonen P.J., Niemi M., and Backman J.T., Drug Interactions with Lipid-Lowering 
Drugs: Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2006; 80(6):565-581. 
9. Livalo® (pitavastatin calcium) tablets, monograph by Kowa Pharmaceuticals America, 
full prescribing information (electronic monograph / revised October 2013) published on 
the FDA website. 
10. Crestor® 
(rosuvastatin 
calcium) 
tablets, 
full 
prescribing 
information 
(electronicmonograph) published on the Drugs@FDA website (document revised: 
07/2014). 
11. Martin PD, Mitchell PD, and Schneck DW. Pharmacodynamic effects and 
pharmacokinetics of a new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, rosuvastatin, after morning 
and evening administration in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2002; 54:472-477. 
12. Zhang W, et al. Role of BCRP 421C. A polymorphism on rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics 
in healthy chinese males. Clin Chim Acta 2006; 373(1-2):99-103. 
13. NDA 21-366 for AstraZeneca Rosuvastatin Calcium (Crestor®) 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg 
tablets. 
 
 
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14. Rifadin® (Rifampin capsules or for injection), monograph by Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC, 
full prescribing information (electronic monograph / revised Febuary 2013) published on 
the FDA website. 
15. Gurumurthy P, Sarina GR, Jayasankar K, Thyagarajan K, Prabhakar R, Muthusetupathi 
MA, et al. Single dose pharmacokinetic of isoniazid and rifampicin in patients with 
chronic renal failure. Ind J Tub 1992; 39: 221-8. 
16. Acocella G. Clinical pharmacokinetics of rifampicin Clin Pharmacokinet. 1978; 
3(2):108-27. 
17. Ellard G.A. Chemotherapy of Tuberculosis for Patients with Renal Impairment. Nephron 
1993;64: 169–181. 
18. Malone RS, Fish DN, Spiegel DM, Childs JM, Peloquin CA. The effect of hemodialysis 
on isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 1999 
May;159(5 Pt 1): 1580-4. 
 
 
 
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Appendix 1: Merck* Code of Conduct for Clinical Trials 
I. Introduction 
A. Purpose 
Merck, through its subsidiaries, conducts clinical trials worldwide to evaluate the 
safety and effectiveness of our products. As such, we are committed to designing, 
implementing, conducting, analyzing and reporting these trials in compliance with the 
highest ethical and scientific standards. Protection of subject safety is the overriding 
concern in the design of clinical trials. In all cases, Merck clinical trials will be 
conducted in compliance with local and/or national regulations and in accordance 
with the ethical principles that have their origin in the Declaration of Helsinki.  
B. Scope 
Such standards shall be endorsed for all clinical interventional investigations 
sponsored by Merck irrespective of the party (parties) employed for their execution 
(e.g., contract research organizations, collaborative research efforts). This Code is not 
intended to apply to trials which are observational in nature, or which are 
retrospective. Further, this Code does not apply to Investigator-initiated trials which 
are not under the control of Merck. 
II. Scientific Issues 
A. Trial Conduct 
1. Trial Design 
Except for pilot or estimation trials, clinical trial protocols will be 
hypothesis-driven to assess safety, efficacy and/or pharmacokinetic or 
pharmacodynamic indices of Merck or comparator products. Alternatively, Merck 
may conduct outcomes research trials, trials to assess or validate various endpoint 
measures, or trials to determine subject preferences, etc. 
The design (i.e., subject population, duration, statistical power) must be adequate 
to address the specific purpose of the trial. Research subjects must meet protocol 
entry criteria to be enrolled in the trial.  
2. Site Selection 
Merck selects investigative sites based on medical expertise, access to appropriate 
subjects, adequacy of facilities and staff, previous performance in Merck trials, as 
well as budgetary considerations. Prior to trial initiation, sites are evaluated by 
Merck personnel to assess the ability to successfully conduct the trial. 
 
 
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3. Site Monitoring/Scientific Integrity 
Trial sites are monitored to assess compliance with the trial protocol and general 
principles of Good Clinical Practice. Merck reviews clinical data for accuracy, 
completeness and consistency. Data are verified versus source documentation 
according to standard operating procedures. Per Merck policies and procedures, if 
fraud, misconduct or serious GCP-non-Compliance are suspected, the issues are 
promptly investigated. When necessary, the clinical site will be closed, the 
responsible regulatory authorities and ethics review committees notified and data 
disclosed accordingly.  
B. Publication and Authorship 
To the extent scientifically appropriate, Merck seeks to publish the results of trials it 
conducts. Some early phase or pilot trials are intended to be hypothesis-generating 
rather than hypothesis testing. In such cases, publication of results may not be 
appropriate since the trial may be underpowered and the analyses complicated by 
statistical issues of multiplicity. 
Merck’s policy on authorship is consistent with the requirements outlined in the 
ICH-Good Clinical Practice guidelines. In summary, authorship should reflect 
significant contribution to the design and conduct of the trial, performance or 
interpretation of the analysis, and/or writing of the manuscript. All named authors 
must be able to defend the trial results and conclusions. Merck funding of a trial will 
be acknowledged in publications.  
III. Subject Protection 
A. IRB/ERC review 
All clinical trials will be reviewed and approved by an independent IRB/ERC before 
being initiated at each site. Significant changes or revisions to the protocol will be 
approved by the IRB/ERC prior to implementation, except that changes required 
urgently to protect subject safety and well-being may be enacted in anticipation of 
IRB/ERC approval. For each site, the IRB/ERC and Merck will approve the subject 
informed consent form.  
B. Safety 
The guiding principle in decision-making in clinical trials is that subject welfare is of 
primary importance. Potential subjects will be informed of the risks and benefits of, 
as well as alternatives to, trial participation. At a minimum, trial designs will take into 
account the local standard of care. Subjects are never denied access to appropriate 
medical care based on participation in a Merck clinical trial.  
All participation in Merck clinical trials is voluntary. Subjects are enrolled only after 
providing informed consent for participation. Subjects may withdraw from a Merck 
 
 
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trial at any time, without any influence on their access to, or receipt of, medical care 
that may otherwise be available to them. 
C. Confidentiality 
Merck is committed to safeguarding subject confidentiality, to the greatest extent 
possible. Unless required by law, only the Investigator, Sponsor (or representative) 
and/or regulatory authorities will have access to confidential medical records that 
might identify the research subject by name. 
D. Genomic Research 
Genomic Research will only be conducted in accordance with informed consent 
and/or as specifically authorized by an Ethics Committee. 
IV. Financial Considerations 
A. Payments to Investigators 
Clinical trials are time- and labor-intensive. It is Merck’s policy to compensate 
Investigators (or the sponsoring institution) in a fair manner for the work performed 
in support of Merck trials. Merck does not pay incentives to enroll subjects in its 
trials. However, when enrollment is particularly challenging, additional payments 
may be made to compensate for the time spent in extra recruiting efforts. 
Merck does not pay for subject referrals. However, Merck may compensate referring 
physicians for time spent on chart review to identify potentially eligible subjects. 
B. Clinical Research Funding  
Informed consent forms will disclose that the trial is sponsored by Merck, and that the 
Investigator or sponsoring institution is being paid or provided a grant for performing 
the trial. However, the local IRB/ERC may wish to alter the wording of the disclosure 
statement to be consistent with financial practices at that institution. As noted above, 
publications resulting from Merck trials will indicate Merck as a source of funding. 
C. Funding for Travel and Other Requests 
Funding of travel by Investigators and support staff (e.g., to scientific meetings, 
Investigator meetings, etc.) will be consistent with local guidelines and practices 
including, in the U.S., those established by the American Medical Association 
(AMA).  
 
 
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V.  Investigator Commitment 
Investigators will be expected to review Merck’s Code of Conduct as an appendix to the 
trial protocol, and in signing the protocol, agree to support these ethical and scientific 
standards. 
* In this document, "Merck" refers to Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. and Schering 
Corporation, each of which is a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. Merck is known as MSD 
outside of the United States and Canada. As warranted by context, Merck also includes 
affiliates and subsidiaries of Merck & Co., Inc. 
 
 
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Appendix 2: Collection and Management of Specimens for Future Biomedical 
Research 
1. Definitions 
a. Biomarker:  A biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is 
a sign of a normal or abnormal process or of a condition or disease. A biomarker may 
be used to see how well the body responds to a treatment for a disease or condition.1 
b. Pharmacogenomics:  The investigation of variations of DNA and RNA characteristics 
as related to drug/vaccine response.2 
c. Pharmacogenetics:  A subset of pharmacogenomics, pharmacogenetics is the 
influence of variations in DNA sequence on drug/vaccine response.2 
d. DNA:  Deoxyribonucleic acid. 
e. RNA:  Ribonucleic acid. 
2. Scope of Future Biomedical Research 
The specimens consented and/or collected in this trial as outlined in Section 10.4 will be 
used in various experiments to understand: 
• The biology of how drugs/vaccines work 
• Biomarkers responsible for how a drug/vaccine enters and is removed by the body 
• Other pathways drugs/vaccines may interact with 
• The biology of disease 
The specimen(s) may be used for future assay development and/or drug/vaccine 
development. 
It is now well recognized that information obtained from studying and testing clinical 
specimens offers unique opportunities to enhance our understanding of how individuals 
respond to drugs/vaccines, enhance our understanding of human disease and ultimately 
improve public health through development of novel treatments targeted to populations 
with the greatest need. All specimens will be used by the Sponsor or those working for or 
with the Sponsor. 
 
 
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3. Summary of Procedures for Future Biomedical Research 
a. Subjects for Enrollment 
All subjects enrolled in the clinical trial will be considered for enrollment in the 
Future Biomedical Research sub-trial. 
b. Informed Consent  
Informed consent for specimens (i.e., DNA, RNA, protein, etc.) will be obtained 
during screening for protocol enrollment from all subjects or legal guardians, at a trial 
visit by the investigator or his or her designate. Informed consent for Future 
Biomedical Research should be presented to the subjects on the visit designated in the 
trial flow chart. If delayed, present consent at next possible Subject Visit. Consent 
forms signed by the subject will be kept at the clinical trial site under secure storage 
for regulatory reasons.   
A template of each trial site’s approved informed consent will be stored in the 
Sponsor’s clinical document repository. 
c. CRF Documentation for Future Biomedical Research Specimens 
Documentation of subject consent for Future Biomedical Research will be captured in 
the electronic Case Report Forms (CRFs). Any specimens for which such an 
informed consent cannot be verified will be destroyed. 
d. Future Biomedical Research Specimen(s) 
Collection of specimens for Future Biomedical Research will be performed as 
outlined in the trial flow chart. In general, if additional blood specimens are being 
collected for Future Biomedical Research, these will usually be obtained at a time 
when the subject is having blood drawn for other trial purposes. 
4. Confidential Subject Information for Future Biomedical Research  
In order to optimize the research that can be conducted with Future Biomedical Research 
specimens, it is critical to link subject' clinical information with future test results. In fact 
little or no research can be conducted without connecting the clinical trial data to the 
specimen. The clinical data allow specific analyses to be conducted. Knowing subject 
characteristics like gender, age, medical history and treatment outcomes are critical to 
understanding clinical context of analytical results. 
To maintain privacy of information collected from specimens obtained for Future 
Biomedical Research, the Sponsor has developed secure policies and procedures. All 
specimens will be single-coded per ICH E15 guidelines as described below.  
 
 
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At the clinical trial site, unique codes will be placed on the Future Biomedical Research 
specimens. This code is a random number which does not contain any personally 
identifying information embedded within it. The link (or key) between subject identifiers 
and this unique code will be held at the trial site. No personal identifiers will appear on 
the specimen tube. 
5. Biorepository Specimen Usage 
Specimens obtained for the Sponsor will be used for analyses using good scientific 
practices. Analyses utilizing the Future Biomedical Research specimens may be 
performed by the Sponsor, or an additional third party (e.g., a university investigator) 
designated by the Sponsor. The investigator conducting the analysis will follow the 
Sponsor’s privacy and confidentiality requirements. Any contracted third party analyses 
will conform to the specific scope of analysis outlined in this sub-trial. Future Biomedical 
Research specimens remaining with the third party after specific analysis is performed 
will be reported to the Sponsor. 
6. Withdrawal From Future Biomedical Research  
Subjects may withdraw their consent for Future Biomedical Research and ask that their 
biospecimens not be used for Future Biomedical Research. Subjects may withdraw 
consent at any time by contacting the principal investigator for the main trial. If medical 
records for the main trial are still available, the investigator will contact the Sponsor 
using 
the 
designated 
mailbox 
(clinical.specimen.management@merck.com). 
Subsequently, the subject's specimens will be flagged in the biorepository and restricted 
to main study use only. If specimens were collected from study participants specifically 
for Future Biomedical Research, these specimens will be removed from the biorepository 
and destroyed. Documentation will be sent to the investigator confirming withdrawal 
and/or destruction, if applicable. It is the responsibility of the investigator to inform the 
subject of completion of the withdrawal and/or destruction, if applicable. Any analyses in 
progress at the time of request for withdrawal/destruction or already performed prior to 
the request being received by the Sponsor will continue to be used as part of the overall 
research trial data and results. No new analyses would be generated after the request is 
received. 
In the event that the medical records for the main trial are no longer available (e.g., if the 
investigator is no longer required by regulatory authorities to retain the main trial 
records) or the specimens have been completely anonymized, there will no longer be a 
link between the subject’s personal information and their specimens. In this situation, the 
request for withdrawal of consent and/or destruction cannot be processed.  
7. Retention of Specimens  
Future Biomedical Research specimens will be stored in the biorepository for potential 
analysis for up to 20 years from the end of the main study. Specimens may be stored for 
longer if a regulatory or governmental authority has active questions that are being 
 
 
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answered. In this special circumstance, specimens will be stored until these questions 
have been adequately addressed. 
Specimens from the trial site will be shipped to a central laboratory and then shipped to 
the Sponsor-designated biorepository. If a central laboratory is not utilized in a particular 
trial, the trial site will ship directly to the Sponsor-designated biorepository. The 
specimens will be stored under strict supervision in a limited access facility which 
operates to assure the integrity of the specimens. Specimens will be destroyed according 
to Sponsor policies and procedures and this destruction will be documented in the 
biorepository database. 
8. Data Security 
Databases containing specimen information and test results are accessible only to the 
authorized Sponsor representatives and the designated trial administrator research 
personnel and/or collaborators. Database user authentication is highly secure, and is 
accomplished using network security policies and practices based on international 
standards to protect against unauthorized access. 
9. Reporting of Future Biomedical Research Data to Subjects 
No information obtained from exploratory laboratory studies will be reported to the 
subject, family, or physicians. Principle reasons not to inform or return results to the 
subject include:  Lack of relevance to subject health, limitations of predictive capability, 
and concerns regarding misinterpretation. 
If important research findings are discovered, the Sponsor may publish results, present 
results in national meetings, and make results accessible on a public website in order to 
rapidly report this information to doctors and subjects. Subjects will not be identified by 
name in any published reports about this study or in any other scientific publication or 
presentation. 
10. Future Biomedical Research Study Population 
Every effort will be made to recruit all subjects diagnosed and treated on Sponsor clinical 
trials for Future Biomedical Research. 
11. Risks Versus Benefits of Future Biomedical Research 
The Sponsor has developed strict security, policies and procedures to address subject data 
privacy concerns. Data privacy risks are largely limited to rare situations involving 
possible breach of confidentiality. In this highly unlikely situation there is risk that the 
information, like all medical information, may be misused. 
 
 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
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12. Questions 
Any questions related to the future biomedical research should be e-mailed directly to 
clinical.specimen.management@merck.com. 
13. References 
1. 
National Cancer Institute:  http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary/?searchTxt=biomarker 
2. 
International Conference on Harmonization:  DEFINITIONS FOR GENOMIC 
BIOMARKERS, PHARMACOGENOMICS, PHARMACOGENETICS, GENOMIC 
DATA 
AND 
SAMPLE 
CODING 
CATEGORIES 
- 
E15; 
http://www.ich.org/LOB/media/MEDIA3383.pdf 
3. 
Industry Pharmacogenomics Working Group. Understanding the Intent, Scope and 
Public Health Benefits of Exploratory Biomarker Research: A Guide for IRBs/IECs 
and Investigational Site Staff. Available at http://i-pwg.org/ 
4. 
Industry Pharmacogenomics Working Group. Pharmacogenomics Informational 
Brochure for IRBs/IECs and Investigational Site Staff. Available at http://i-pwg.org/ 
 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
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Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 88 
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Appendix 3: Sample Handling Instructions for Midazolam and Dabigatran Samples 
Supplies and Equipment 
1. Plastic Lavender Topped Vacutainers containing K2EDTA as the anticoagulant. 
Capable of holding 4 - 5 mL of whole blood.  
2. 25% o-Phosphoric acid: Ricca Chemical Company (585116 or equivalent)  
3. Midazolam tubes: 3.6 mL NUNC Internal Thread Round Bottom Cryotubes (NUNC 
Part #366524).  
4. Dabigatran Tubes:  3.6 mL NUNC Internal Thread Round Bottom Cryotubes (NUNC 
Part #366524) containing 15 µL of 25% o-phosphoric acid per tube (any brand 
25% o-phosphoric acid solution is acceptable). 
• 15 µL of the acid can be pre-pipetted into tubes one day prior to blood collection.  
Tubes should be stored upright at room temperature.   
5. Calibrated Adjustable Volume Pipettes:  Suitable for delivering volumes between 10-
200 µL and 100 -1000 µL. 
6. Disposable Plastic Pipettes: Suitable for delivering volumes between 10-200 µL and 
100 -1000 µL. 
7. Refrigerated Centrifuge. Capable of rotating between 1000-1300 RCF (x g) at 
between 4oC to 10oC for 10 minutes. Note that RCF varies according to the centrifuge 
rotor radius. The formula for computing RCF from rotation speed and centrifuge 
radius is RCF = 11.2r(RPM/1000)2, where r is rotor radius, in cm, and RPM is the 
rotations per minute setting of the centrifuge. A typical refrigerated centrifuge (GH-
3.8 model from Beckman) yields 1150 RCF at 2500 RPM, for example. 
8. -65oC to -85oC Sample Storage Freezer. 
Collection of Blood 
For specific time points of sample collection, please refer to the Study Flow Chart. 
Sample Labeling 
1. Whole Blood Samples. Vacutainers containing whole blood should be labeled (non-
barcoded) as appropriate.  
2. Plasma Samples. NUNC tubes containing plasma samples should be labeled with the 
pre-printed barcoded labels with the allocation number, day, date and time (hours 
postdose) provided by the Sponsor. Labels should be placed on the NUNC tubes 
toward the top 30% of the tube in order for the level of plasma in the tube to be 
 
 
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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 89 
CONFIDENTIAL 
viewed. Only one (1) layer of label should be placed on the tube (not 2). This is 
critical for the proper functioning of the automated liquid handling station. 
Procedure 
1. Draw approximately 4 mL whole blood into plastic (PET) vacutainer containing 
K2EDTA as the anticoagulant and invert 6 times. The vacutainer should be labeled as 
appropriate (see above). 
2. Immediately after collection, the blood containing tubes should be placed on ice and 
centrifuged promptly at between 1000-1300 RCF (x g) at between 4oC to 10oC for 
10 minutes. Note that RCF varies according to the centrifuge rotor radius. The 
formula for computing RCF from rotation speed and centrifuge radius is 
RCF = 11.2r(RPM/1000)2, where r is rotor radius, in cm, and RPM is the rotations per 
minute setting of the centrifuge. If the samples cannot be centrifuged immediately, 
the tubes should be kept on ice and centrifuged within 30 minutes of collection. 
Note:  Be sure to account for rotor size variations by adjusting the revolutions per 
minute (RPM) for the specific centrifuge to yield between 1000-1300 RCF (xg) as 
noted in the Supplies and Equipment section. 
3. Immediately after separation of the whole blood, carefully transfer the plasma into 
two tubes with pre-printed barcoded labels.  Transfer 0.6 mL plasma into the tube 
containing 15 µL of 25% O-Phosphoric acid for Dabigatran and the remaining plasma 
into the Midazolam labeled tube using calibrated pipettes. Store at -65oC to -85oC 
until transfer to Pharma Medica Research Inc. on DRY ICE. 
Note:  In the event that the whole blood samples cannot be processed immediately 
the samples should be kept on ice. No more than 60 minutes should elapse 
between blood draw and the freezing of plasma samples. 
Sample Shipping 
It is the responsibility of the Primary Investigator to ensure that all staff personnel who will 
be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens act in conformance with 
International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations relating to the handling and 
shipping of hazardous goods. 
1. All shipments will be made in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE. 
2. Please include a sample inventory with each shipment. 
3. Samples should be sent at intervals to be determined by the Sponsor and the 
Investigator. Shipments should be sent on MONDAY or TUESDAY to assure receipt 
by Friday. 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 90 
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4. Samples should be shipped to: 
Analytical Laboratory 
Pharma Medica Research Inc. 
6100 Belgrave Road 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
L5R 0B7 
Phone 
 
Fax 
 
 
Manager, Lab Operations Support 
 
 
Note:  Sample storage for this study is -65oC to -85oC. 
 
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
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Page 91 
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Appendix 4: Sample Handling Instructions for Pitavastatin, Atorvastatin (and 
metabolites), and Rosuvastatin Samples 
Supplies and Equipment 
1. Plastic Lavender Topped Vacutainers containing K2EDTA as the anticoagulant. 
Capable of holding 3- 4 mL of whole blood.  
2. 3.6 mL NUNC Internal Thread Round Bottom Cryotubes (NUNC Part #366524). 
3. Calibrated Adjustable VolumePipettes. Suitable for delivering volumes between 10-
200 µL, 100 -1000 µL, and 1.0 - 10.0 mL. 
4. Disposable Pipette Tips. Suitable for delivering volumes between 10-200 µL; 
100-1000 µL, and 1.0 – 10.0 mL. 
5. Refrigerated Centrifuge. Capable of rotating between 1000-1300 RCF (x g) at 
between 4oC to 10oC for 10 minutes. Note that RCF varies according to the centrifuge 
rotor radius. The formula for computing RCF from rotation speed and centrifuge 
radius is RCF = 11.2r(RPM/1000)2, where r is rotor radius, in cm, and RPM is the 
rotations per minute setting of the centrifuge. A typical refrigerated centrifuge (GH-
3.8 model from Beckman) yields 1150 RCF at 2500 RPM, for example. 
6. -65oC to -85oC Sample Storage Freezer. 
7. Corning Pyrex Reusable Media Storage Bottle (250 mL):  Fisher Scientific Catalog 
#06-414-1B. To be used for buffer preparation. 
8. Ammonium acetate, certified ≥97%, 500 g; Fisher Scientific Catalog #A637-500 or 
equivalent.  
9. Acetic Acid, Glacial ≥97% (w/w%), 500 mL; Fisher Scientific Catalog #A35-500 or 
equivalent. 
10. Water Optima, 1L; Fisher Scientific Catalog#W6-1 or equivalent. 
11. Top loading digital balance capable of weights listed below. 
12. Glass cylinder for measuring liquid volume up to 250 mL. 
Procedures 
Preparation of 1M Ammonium acetate buffer, pH 5 
1. Weigh 19.25g of ammonium acetate. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 92 
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2. Transfer the weighed ammonium acetate to the 250-mL pyrex storage bottle and 
dissolve with 230 mL of bottled water (Optima). Mix. 
3. Pipet 8.25 mL of glacial acetic acid into the mixture. Mix. 
4. Store refrigerated (~4°C) when not in use for up to 90 days after preparation. Let it 
stand at room temperature and mix before use. 
Sample Labeling 
Whole Blood Samples. Vacutainers containing whole blood should be labeled (non-
barcoded) as appropriate.  
Plasma Samples. NUNC tubes containing buffered plasma samples should be 
labeled with the pre-printed barcoded labels with the allocation number, day, date and 
time (hours postdose) provided by the Sponsor. Labels should be placed on the 
NUNC tubes toward the top 30% of the tube in order for the level of plasma in the 
tube to be viewed. Only one (1) layer of label should be placed on the tube (not 2). 
This is critical for the proper functioning of the automated liquid handling station. 
Collection of Blood 
For specific time points of sample collection, please refer to the Study Flow Chart. 
1. Prior to blood draw, prepare the Nunc tube for plasma collection by pipetting 50 µL 
of 1M ammonium acetate buffer (pH5) into each tube. 
2. Draw approximately 3 mL whole blood into plastic (PET) vacutainer containing 
K2EDTA as the anticoagulant and invert 6 times. The vacutainer should be labeled as 
appropriate (see above). 
3. Immediately after collection, the blood containing tubes should be placed on ice and 
centrifuged promptly at between 1000-1300 RCF (x g) at between 4oC to 10oC for 
10 minutes. Note that RCF varies according to the centrifuge rotor radius. The 
formula for computing RCF from rotation speed and centrifuge radius is 
RCF = 11.2r(RPM/1000)2, where r is rotor radius, in cm, and RPM is the rotations per 
minute setting of the centrifuge. If the samples cannot be centrifuged immediately, 
the tubes should be kept on ice and centrifuged within 30 minutes of collection. 
Note:  Be sure to account for rotor size variations by adjusting the revolutions per 
minute (RPM) for the specific centrifuge to yield between 1000-1300 RCF (xg) as 
noted in the Supplies and Equipment section. 
4. Immediately after separation of the whole blood, carefully transfer 1 mL of the 
plasma using a pipette into a 3.6 mL internally-threaded NUNC cryotube containing 
50 µL of 1M ammonium acetate buffer (pH5) identified with pre-printed barcoded 
labels (see above). 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 93 
CONFIDENTIAL 
5.  Vortex mix for approximately 10 seconds, and store at -65oC to -85oC until transfer 
to Pharma Medica Research Inc. on DRY ICE. 
Note:  In the event that the whole blood samples cannot be processed immediately 
the samples should be kept on ice. No more than 60 minutes should elapse 
between blood draw and the freezing of plasma samples. 
Sample Shipping 
It is the responsibility of the Primary Investigator to ensure that all staff personnel who will 
be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens act in conformance with 
International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations relating to the handling and 
shipping of hazardous goods. 
1. All shipments will be made in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE. 
2. Please include a sample inventory with each shipment. 
3. Samples should be sent at intervals to be determined by the Sponsor and the 
Investigator. Shipments should be sent on MONDAY or TUESDAY to assure receipt 
by Friday. 
4. Samples should be shipped to: 
Analytical Laboratory 
Pharma Medica Research Inc. 
6100 Belgrave Road 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
L5R 0B7 
Phone 
 
Fax 
 
 
Manager, Lab Operations Support 
 
 
Note:  Sample storage for this study is -65oC to -85oC. 
 
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 94 
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Appendix 5: Sample Handling Instructions for Rifampin Samples 
SAMPLE LABELING 
K2EDTA vacutainer tubes and plasma transfer vials (cryotubes) should be labeled with 
allocation number, period, day, date, and actual time (hours postdose). Bar-coded labels will 
be provided by Sponsor for plasma and samples. 
Place label toward the top 30% of the cryotube in order for the level of plasma in the tube to 
be viewed. Only one (1) layer of label should be placed on the tube (not 2). This is critical for 
the proper function of the automatic liquid handling station. 
SAMPLE COLLECTION, HANDLING, LABELING, STORAGE, AND SHIPMENT 
Blood samples will be collected in labelled 3 mL blood collection tubes containing K2EDTA 
as the anticoagulant. The blood-containing tubes should be gently inverted 8 to 10 times and 
placed immediately in an ice water bath. The samples will be maintained in an ice bath 
throughout sample collection and until further processing. Within 240 minutes of collection, 
the blood samples will be centrifuged at 1700 g (approximately 3000 rpm) for approximately 
10 minutes and at 4°C (2oC to 8oC). Samples that are interrupted during centrifugation, 
disturbed during the separation process or exhibit inadequate separation will be re-spun under 
the same conditions in an attempt to separate the maximum amount of plasma from each 
sample. The samples will be maintained in an ice bath following centrifugation and until 
storage in the freezer.  
The plasma from each sample will be aliquoted into separately labelled cryotubes (3.6 mL 
NUNC Internal Thread Round Bottom Cryotubes [NUNC Part #366524]). Cryotubes are 
immediately frozen or stored temporally on ice and frozen at -15oC to -30oC within 180 
minutes from start of centrifugation. Plasma samples are stored in a freezer at -15oC to -30oC 
pending shipment. 
At the completion of the clinical portion of the study, the plasma samples will be packed on 
dry ice and sent to the analytical facility. The shipment of the plasma samples will be made 
in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE (and labeled as HUMAN SAMPLES:  
NONINFECTIOUS). All shipments will be made on Monday or Tuesday only.  
Clinic personnel will notify the analytical laboratory via e-mail prior to shipment with the 
following information:  
• Date of the shipment  
• Number and type of samples  
• Special handling requirements and  
• Number of shipping containers 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 95 
CONFIDENTIAL 
This information will be e-mailed to: 
 
 
 
In addition, on the day of shipment, please notify inVentiv Health Clinique (at the e-mail 
coordinates above) of the shipment as well as the name of the shipping carrier and the 
tracking number. The shipment will be accompanied by an inventory list with appropriate 
documents and delivered to:  
 
inVentiv Health Clinique 
 
Attention: Sample Controller 
 
2500 rue Einstein  
 
Québec (Québec), Canada G1P 0A2  
 
Phone:  
 Fax:  
 
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 96 
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Appendix 6: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine Collection (Dabigatran and 
Rosuvastatin) 
Urine Collection Procedure 
Introduction 
Buffering urine in the urine collection procedure is required.  Buffer must be added to the 
original urine collection container after each void into the container.  Any sample transfers 
from the original sample container prior to the addition of buffer must be avoided in that loss 
of drug and metabolite may occur.  Urine weights, rather than volumes, are determined in 
order to eliminate the need to pour the sample into a graduated cylinder before the addition of 
the buffer. 
Supplies and Equipment 
1. 24 hour Urine amber collection Jugs (from PPD for the biomarker urine collection) (or 
Nalgene Series 2105 Wide Mouth Bottles may be used if for PK only).  These bottles are to 
be used for the actual urine collection, and are available in sizes ranging from 250 to 1000 
mL.  Thus, the bottle size may be varied depending on the length of the collection interval.   
The bottles are available in the United States from Fisher Scientific.  Their catalog numbers 
are as follows: 
 
30 mL bottle:  
#02-893AA 
 
60 mL bottle: 
#02-893BB 
 
250 mL bottle:  
#02-893B 
A list of Nalgene distributors for countries outside of the U.S. may be found on the World 
Wide Web at http://nalgenelab.nalgenunc.com/gen/order.html 
2.  Set of pipettes suitable for delivering volumes between 0.25 mL and 20 mL. 
3.  4.5 mL NUNC cryotube vials (NUNC #363452 or Fisher #12-565-173N) 
4.  Corning Pyrex Reusable Media Storage Bottle (250 mL):  Fisher Scientific Catalog #06-
414-1B. To be used for buffer preparation. 
5.  Ammonium acetate, certified 97%, 500 g; Fisher Scientific Catalog #A637-500 or 
equivalent.  
6.  Acetic Acid, Glacial 97% (w/w%), 500 mL; Fisher Scientific Catalog #A35-500 or 
equivalent. 
7.  Water Optima, 1L; Fisher Scientific Catalog#W6-1 or equivalent. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 97 
CONFIDENTIAL 
8.  Top loading digital balance capable of weights listed below. 
9.  Glass cylinder for measuring liquid volume up to 250 mL. 
 
Preparation of 1M Ammonium acetate buffer, pH 5 (Prepare fresh at the start of the 
study) 
1.  Weigh 19.25g of ammonium acetate. 
2. Transfer the weighed ammonium acetate to the 250-mL pyrex storage bottle and dissolve 
with 230 mL of bottled water (Optima). Mix. 
3. Pipet 8.25 mL of glacial acetic acid into the mixture. Mix. 
4.   Store refrigerated (~4°C) when not in use for up to 90 days after preparation. Let it stand 
at room temperature and mix before use. 
Procedure 
1.  Prior to use, the urine collection bottles, together with their caps, should be weighed on a 
digital balance.  The bottle weights should then be recorded. 
2.  During the sample collection interval, the entire volume should be voided directly into the 
pre-weighed collection bottle. 
3.  At times when they are not in use, the collection bottles may be stored at 4oC. 
4.  At the end of each void, determine and record the weight of the capped collection bottle 
and remove the biomarker aliquots (see Appendix 10), then determine and record the weight 
of the capped collection bottle containing the pharmacokinetic urine specimen. 
5.  Subtract the weight of the empty bottle from the weight of the bottle containing the 
specimen in order to determine the weight of the specimen.  For additional collections within 
the interval, record the current weight and subtract the previous weight. 
6.  Record the weight of the specimen. 
7.  Calculate the volume of 1M ammonium acetate buffer, pH 5 solution that needs to be 
added to the specimen.  The volume (mL) of buffer solution that needs to be added to the 
sample is calculated by multiplying the weight of the specimen in grams by 0.05.  For 
example, a specimen weighing 500 grams requires 25 mL of buffer solution to be added to it. 
8.  Add the calculated volume of buffer solution to the specimen after each void.  The 
volume of buffer solution added to the specimen should also be recorded. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 98 
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Note that if urine collection volumes exceed 1 L for any given interval, separate additions of 
buffer (to each container within a collection interval) are to be completed as described 
above, and the separate collections are to be combined after the solutions are mixed 
thoroughly. 
9. 
Cap the specimen bottle and shake the sample well. 
10. During each collection interval, separate collection voids following addition of buffer 
are to be combined into a pooling container and stored at 4oC. 
11. At the end of each collection interval, transfer a 3 mL aliquot of the buffer treated 
specimen into two pre-labeled 4.5 mL NUNC tubes. 
12. The sample aliquots should be frozen at -65oC to -85oC prior to shipment on dry ice to 
Pharma Medica Research Inc. 
Sample Shipping 
It is the responsibility of the primary investigator to ensure that all staff personnel who will 
be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens act in conformance with 
International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations relating to the handling and 
shipping of hazardous goods. 
1.  All shipments will be made in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE. 
2. Please include a sample inventory with each shipment. 
3. Samples should be sent at intervals to be determined by the Sponsor and the 
investigator.  Shipments should be sent on MONDAY or TUESDAY to assure receipt 
by Friday. 
4. Samples should be shipped to: 
Analytical Laboratory 
Pharma Medica Research Inc. 
6100 Belgrave Road 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
L5R 0B7 
Phone 
 
Fax 
 
 
Manager, Lab Operations Support 
 
 
Note:  Sample storage for this study is -65oC to -85oC.   
 
 
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 99 
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Appendix 7: PAXgeneTM Blood for DNA Analysis 
 
PAXgene™ BLOOD F OR DNA ANALYSIS 
SPECIMEN COLLECTION PROCEDURE 
 
 
SPECIMEN COLLECTION NOTES* 
SCP-124-00 
 
*NOTE:  Refer to protocol flow chart or Specimen Collection Overview Chart for 
scheduled collection time points. 
 
*NOTE:  Collection of specimens from vascular access devices and heparin or saline 
locks is not recommended due to the potential for specimen contamination. This 
specimen should be collected as a peripheral blood draw. 
 
Supplies and Materials (per patient, per time point) 
 
Provided to the Institution 
• Requisition form/card 
• "PAXgene Blood DNA" labels 
• 
One 8.5 mL PAXgene™ Blood DNA collection tube (Cat#761115) 
 
Precautions 
 
* SAFETY PRECAUTION:  Contents of the PAXgene™ tube are irritating to skin. 
Wear disposable gloves, safety glasses or goggles and a laboratory coat and follow 
standard laboratory safety procedures while working with these tubes. If inhaled, 
supply fresh air; consult doctor in case of complaints. If skin contact, immediately wash 
with water and soap, and rinse thoroughly. If contents make eye contact, rinse opened 
eye for 15 minutes under running water, then consult a doctor. If swallowed, 
immediately call a doctor. 
 
Required Equipment 
 
• Freezer for -20oC for PAXgene™ tube storage (For storage exceptions/monthly batch 
shipments). 
 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 100 
CONFIDENTIAL 
 
Labeling 
 
1. Place patient-specific label on the PAXgene Blood DNA tube. 
 
2. If required:  Fill out the requisition form/card appropriately (ensure that you 
follow specific processing instructions per the protocol specific Laboratory Procedure 
Manual). 
 
Preparation 
 
1. Ensure the patient has signed the appropriate IRB/ERC-approved consent for 
genetic specimen collection prior to collecting the specimen. 
 
2. Ensure the PAXgene™ Blood DNA collection tubes are at room temperature prior 
to collecting blood. 
 
*NOTE:  Do not use tubes after the expiration date printed on the label. 
 
3. The PAXgene™ Blood DNA collection tubes should not be the first tubes drawn 
during venipuncture. It should be the last tube collected. 
 
Specimen Collection 
 
1. Collect blood into each PAXgene™ Blood DNA collection tube via your 
institution's recommended standard procedure for venipuncture. 
 
• Ensure that the blood has stopped flowing into the tube before removing 
the tube from the holder. 
• Each tube holds approximately 8.5 mL of blood. 
• Under-filling of the tubes could result in an incorrect blood-to-additive 
ratio and may lead to poor performance (e.g. poor quality or low quantity) 
 
2. Immediately after collection, completely and gently invert the tube 10 times to 
mix uniformly. 
 
 
 
 
 
*NOTE:  After each tube is collected, it is CRITICAL to gently invert PAXgene™ 
10 times to ensure proper mixing of blood & PAXgene™ proprietary reagent. 
 
 
04VMX7

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Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 101 
CONFIDENTIAL 
 
Specimen Processing & Handling 
 
1. Within 5-10 minutes of the blood draw, place tubes upright in a wire or hard plastic 
rack at ambient temperature (18-25°C). 
 
2. Tubes must be shipped within 24 hrs of collection to the laboratory at ambient 
temperature. 
 
Storage Exceptions (special circumstances only) 
 
If storing specimens for batch shipment:  Specimen tubes MUST be transferred to 
a -20°C freezer, in a wire or hard plastic rack in the upright position, after collection. 
Specimen tubes may be stored frozen upright at -20°C for no longer than 4 weeks 
at -20ºC. Tubes stored at -20°C must be shipped on dry ice to the Laboratory. 
 
*NOTE:  Any storage time and temperature excursions must be documented and 
communicated upon specimen shipment within the shipment inventory documents. 
 
*NOTE:  Frozen PAXgene™ Blood DNA collection tubes are subject to breakage on 
impact. To reduce the risk of breakage during handling and shipment, frozen tubes 
should be treated in the same manner as glass tubes. If freezing is required, a wire or 
hard plastic rack should be used (NO STYROFOAM) as the tubes may crack. 
 
 
Packaging and Shipping 
 
1. It is the responsibility of the primary investigator to ensure that all staff personnel 
who will be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens are trained and 
certified as required by National and International regulations and they ship 
materials in accordance with all current regulations relating to the handling and 
shipping of hazardous goods. 
 
2. Follow packing and shipping instructions for AMBIENT shipments. 
 
3. Contact shipping courier to obtain any required documentation/forms required for 
shipment. 
 
4. Ship to the Laboratory within 24 hr of the blood draw. 
 
5. Shipping schedule – Select overnight or priority delivery and ensure that shipments 
are received at the destination vendor Monday through Friday, except on U.S. 
holidays. Shipments can be received on Saturday with advanced notification. Contact 
the Vendor if you are uncertain about the shipping or receiving schedule. 
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 102 
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*NOTE:  For storage exceptions where ambient shipment was not possible, and 
specimens were frozen (-20°C), always ship frozen specimens on DRY ICE. 
 
Shipping Address: 
BioProcessing Solutions Alliance  
Attn:  CommStaff 
Nelson Biological Laboratories 
604 Allison Road, C120 
Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA 
Tel.:  
 
Email:  
 
 
 
 
 
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MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 103 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Appendix 8: Prohibited and Allowed Medications for Subjects with RI 
Systemically absorbed drugs specifically prohibited in the exclusion criteria are not allowed 
during the ongoing trial. Listed below are some specific restrictions for concomitant therapy 
use during the course of the trial. If there is a clinical indication for one of these or other 
medications specifically prohibited during the trial, discontinuation from trial therapy may be 
required. The Investigator should discuss any questions regarding this with the Sponsor 
Clinical Monitor. The final decision on any supportive therapy rests with the Investigator 
and/or the subject's primary physician. However, the decision to continue the subject on trial 
therapy requires the mutual agreement of the Investigator, the Sponsor and the subject. 
The following medications/therapies are contraindicated in this study: 
Strong and moderate CYP3A/P-gp inhibitors, including but not limited to: 
• Antibiotics: clarithromycin, erythromycin, telithromycin 
• Antifungals: itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole 
• Antihypertensives: nifedipine 
• Nefazodone 
Strong and moderate CYP3A/P-gp inducers, including but not limited to: 
• Anti-infectives: nafcillin, rifampin 
• Anticonvulsants: carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital 
• Bosentan 
• Modafinil 
• St. John's wort 
OATP inhibitors, including but not limited to: 
• Immunosuppressants: cyclosporine 
• Anti-infectives: rifampin, ritonavir, atazanavir, saquinavir, tipranavir, lopinavir 
• Diabetes agents: glibeclamide, glyburide 
• Lipid lowering agents: gemfibrozil 
• Eltrombopag 
• Lapatinib 
All HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) 
In general, CYP3A4 substrates with narrow therapeutic ranges (e.g., warfarin, amiodarone, 
flecainide, propafenone, quinidine, fentanyl, sildenafil or tadalafil when used for the 
treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension) are not prohibited but their levels have the 
potential to be increased by approximately 30%. Therefore, subjects taking these medications 
should be monitored closely or dose adjusted appropriately. 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 104 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Medications Allowed Per Protocol 
Concomitant use of the medications listed below will be allowed during the conduct of the 
study as long as the subject has not had a clinically significant change 14 days prior to the 
first study drug administration and is anticipated to remain stable during the study. 
• Proton Pump Inhibitors  
Note:  Proton pump inhibitors must be withheld 1 week prior to each dosing and 4 hours 
post dosing. 
• Anti-hypertensive agents, including mono- or combination therapy with an 
angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, 
a betablocker, a calcium-channel blocker or a diuretic (e.g., lisinopril, ramipril, 
candesartan, irbesartan, olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, or nitrates). 
Note:  Diuretics must be withheld 8 hours prior to each dosing and 4 hours post 
dosing. 
• Medications for treatment of diabetes such as insulin, sulfonylureas (e.g., 
tolbutamide, glipizide, glimepiride, metformin, saxagliptin, sitagliptin), meglitinides 
(e.g., repaglinide, nateglinide), thiazolidinediones, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, 
and glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs. 
• Iron. 
• Vitamin D 
• Thyroid hormone replacement. 
• Acetaminophen (up to 2 g per 24-hour period). 
• Phosphate binders containing aluminum, calcium or lanthanum salts; iron 
supplements or other metal cations; antacids; or multivitamins containing iron 
or zinc.  
Note: These drugs must be withheld 8 hours prior to each dosing and 4 hours post 
dosing. 
 
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 105 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Appendix 9: Specimen Collection Procedure – Plasma and Serum Biomarkers  
STANDARD & K2EDTA P L AS M A  
S P E C I M E N  C O L L E C T I ON PROCEDURE 
 
 
SPECIMEN COLLECTION NOTES*                           SCP107-00 
 
*NOTE: Refer to protocol flow chart for scheduled collection time points. 
 
*NOTE: Collection of specimens from a vascular access device or heparin / saline 
locks is not recommended due to the potential for specimen contamination.  This 
specimen should be collected as a peripheral blood draw. 
 
The collection procedures below are for the following collections: 
 
Sample Type (Per Tube) 
Approximate Volume per 
Time Point * 
(mL) 
Shipping 
Destination 
Blood for serum total and direct bilirubin 
2 
PPD 
Blood for serum creatinine 
2 
PPD 
Blood for plasma coproporhyrin I and III 
2  
PPD 
Blood for plasma p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, 
and CMPF  
2 
TMB/MRL 
Blood for plasma GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, 
TCDC-S, and TCDA-S 
2 
Metabolon 
Blood for protein binding^ 
3 
TMB/MRL 
 
 
Supplies and Materials (per patient, per time point) 
 
Provided to the Institution for total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, 
and coproporhyrin I and III (kits from PPD): 
• Requisition forms  
• Requisition forms for K2EDTA Plasma 
• Shipment notification forms 
• Supply re-order forms 
• Shipping kit with packing supplies 
• K2EDTA Vacutainer collection tubes  
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 106 
CONFIDENTIAL 
• Transfer pipettes 
• 15mL amber polypropylene conical tubes  
• 2.0mL amber or regular Eppendorf microcentrifuge tubes 
• Preprinted return air bills 
• Collection Flow Charts  
 
*NOTE: Kits and materials provided by the laboratory vendors may differ slightly 
than details outlined here. Laboratory manuals, instructions, and 
collection flow charts should be followed.   
 
*NOTE: For international shipments, Merck approved couriers must be used.  
The selected courier will provide the air bill and customs documentation 
at the time your package is picked up. 
 
Institution to procure for (p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF), (GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and 
TCDA-S), and protein binding: 
• K2EDTA Vacutainer collection tubes 
• Transfer pipettes 
• 15mL polypropylene conical tube 
• Appropriate number of 2.0mL Eppendorf microcentrifuge tubes 
• Other supplies as needed, per site decision 
 
Required Equipment 
 
• Refrigerated centrifuge (4 º C) 
 
Labeling 
 
 
• Place patient-specific labels on the 15mL collection tube and the 2mL microcentrifuge 
tubes 
 
 
• If applicable, fill out the r e q u i s i t i o n  form/card appropriately (ensure that 
you follow specific processing instructions per the protocol specific Laboratory 
Procedure Manual). 
 
 
Specimen Collection 
 
 
 
Total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, (p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, 
and CMPF), (GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and 
TCDA-S), and protein binding: 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 107 
CONFIDENTIAL 
 
For all subjects, blood samples will be collected in 2 mL K2EDTA Vacutainer 
tubes blood collection tubes containing no additive at scheduled time points as 
delineated in the Study Events Flow Chart (Section 6). 
 
Coproporhyrin I and III:   
 
Patients should sit in a room with low fluorescent lighting for all biomarker and PK 
blood draws.  Lighting should be as low as possible but light enough for the 
collection to be done safely and effectively.   
 
CPI/CPIII is very light sensitive. Exposure to ambient light should be minimized to 
the greatest extent possible during sample collection and processing.  Precautions 
will include covering collection and processing tubes with aluminum foil. 
 
•  Collect 2mL of whole blood in the pre-labeled K2EDTA Vacutainer.  The pre-
labeled K2EDTA Vacutainer tubes for Coproporhyrin I/III should be covered in 
aluminum foil.  Fill the collection tube completely or until blood flow stops to 
ensure adequate anticoagulant/blood ratios. 
 
*NOTE: Allow vacuum to be exhausted prior to removing vacutainer from needle. 
To prevent backflow of chemical additives from the vacutainer, keep the height of 
the vacutainer at or below the level of the blood draw site and do not allow the 
contents of the vacutainer to contact the stopper or end of the needle during 
procedure.    
 
 
• After collection, gently invert the K2EDTA Vacutainer tube 10 times to ensure 
proper mixing of anti-coagulant additive. 
 
 
 
Specimen Processing & Handling 
 
 
Total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, (p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, 
and CMPF), (GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and 
TCDA-S), and protein binding: 
 
Following blood collection, each blood sample will be gently inverted 5 times and 
samples will be allowed to clot at room temperature (for at least 60 minutes).  
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 108 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Within 60-90 minutes of collection, the content of the tubes will then be 
centrifuged (approximately at 1100-1300 x g for 10 minutes) under refrigeration at 
a temperature of 4°C to separate the serum. 
 
Aliquot serum in a cryo/transfer tube (or equivalent).  
Coproporhyrin I and III:   
 
Processing should occur in a room with low fluorescent lighting for all biomarker 
and PK samples.  Lighting should be as low as possible but light enough for the 
procedures to be done effectively.   
 
CPI/CPIII is very light sensitive. Exposure to ambient light should be minimized to 
the greatest extent possible during sample collection and processing.  Precautions 
will include covering collection and processing tubes with aluminum foil. 
 
*NOTE: The K2EDTA Vacutainer tubes should be processed immediately, or 
within 30 minutes of collection.  If the specimens cannot be processed 
immediately, place the tubes on ice until centrifugation. 
 
• 
Centrifuge the K2EDTA Vacutainer  in a refrigerated at 4°C the K2EDTA 
Vacutainer for 10 minutes at 1,300 x g. 
 
 
 
*NOTE: The RCF (Relative centrifugal force) varies according to the 
centrifuge rotor radius.  The formula for computing RCF from rotation speed 
and centrifuge radius is RCF = 11.2r (RPM/1000)2, where r is rotor radius, in 
cm, and RPM is the rotations per minute setting of the centrifuge. 
 
 
• 
Without disturbing the bottom red blood cell layer, slowly and carefully 
collect the plasma from the top layer of the tube (approximately 1/2 the original 
blood volume) using a transfer pipette, and transfer the plasma into a pre-
labelled 15mL polypropylene collection tube.  Discard the remaining red blood 
cell layer appropriately. 
*NOTE: Do not try to remove all the possible plasma.  Stay about 5 mm away 
from the red blood layer to avoid contamination of plasma with the red blood 
cell layer at the bottom of the tube. 
 
• 
Mix the plasma in the foil covered 15mL collection tube by inversion 5-6 times, 
and then transfer equal volumes to the two (2) pre-labelled 2mL microcentrifuge 
tubes. 
 
All plasma aliquots MUST be frozen upright immediately at -80oC or lower and 
maintained in the frozen state during shipment.  Please protect from light. 
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 109 
CONFIDENTIAL 
 
Specimen Storage (All samples) 
 
 
• 
The specimens can either be stored frozen overnight at the site at -80oC or 
lower and then shipped next day or stored at -80oC or lower to accommodate 
batch shipment (e.g. weekly or monthly). 
 
• 
Avoid any freeze-thaw cycles 
 
• 
Any temperature excursions should be documented and communicated upon 
specimen shipment within the shipment inventory documents. 
 
Reminder:  CPI/CPIII is very light sensitive. Exposure to ambient light should be 
minimized to the greatest extent possible during sample collection and processing.  
Precautions will include covering collection and processing tubes with aluminum 
foil. 
 
 
Packaging and Shipping (All samples) 
 
 
 
1. It is the responsibility of the primary investigator to ensure that all staff personnel 
who will be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens are trained and 
certified as required by National and International regulations and they ship materials 
in accordance with all current regulations relating to the handling and shipping of 
hazardous goods. 
2. Contact shipping courier to obtain any required documentation/forms required for 
shipment. 
3. Follow packing and shipping instructions for DRY ICE shipments provided by 
Central Laboratory and/or shipping courier.  
4. All shipments should be made in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE, and 
labeled as HUMAN SAMPLES: NONINFECTIOUS 
*NOTE: The packaging and shipping instructions provided by the Central Lab and/or 
shipping courier are not considered nor are they intended to be formal Dangerous Goods 
training. 
5. Include a specimen inventory form with each shipment. 
6. Shipments should be sent on a MONDAY or TUESDAY only to assure receipt by 
Friday. 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 110 
CONFIDENTIAL 
7. Ship  pre-labelled 2mL microcentrifuge tubes appropriately to all of the following 
addresses: 
Address I (plasma p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and CMPF) and protein 
binding: 
 
TMB/ Merck Research Laboratories 
KW015C-C302-17 
2015 Galloping Hill Road 
Kenilworth, NJ 07033 
 
 
 
Address II (plasma coproporhyrin I/III, serum total and direct bilirubin, and 
serum creatinine): 
PPD  
Central Labs 
Attn: 
 
2 Tesseneer Drive 
Highland Heights, KY 41070 
 
Address III (GDCA-S, GCDCA-S, DCA-S, TCDC-S, and TCDA-S): 
 
Metabolon 
617 Davis Drive, Suite 400  
Morrisville, NC 27560 
United States 
 
 
 
 
 
04VMX7
PPD
PPD
PPD
PPD
PPD

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 111 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Appendix 10: Sample Handling Instructions for Urine Collection (Biomarkers) 
URINE:  
SPECIMEN COLLECTION PROCEDURE 
 
SPECIMEN COLLECTION NOTES*                          SCP108-00 
 
*NOTE: Refer to the protocol flow chart for scheduled collection time points.  
The collection procedures below are for the following collections: 
 
Urine Biomarker Sample Type 
Number of 
Samples (Aliquots) 
Shipping Destination 
Urine coproporhyrin I and III 
2 
PPD 
Urine p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF  
1 
TMB/MRL 
 
Supplies and Materials (per patient, per time point) 
 
 
Provided to the Institution: 
 
• 
24 hour Urine amber collection jugs  (should be also used for PK urine collection if possible) 
• 
120mL amber Urine collection cups  
• 
15mL amber polypropylene conical tubes  
• 
2.0mL amber Eppendorf microcentrifuge tubes (for urine coproporhyrin I/III) 
• 
Boxes for storage of the 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes 
 
*NOTE: Kits and materials provided by the laboratory vendors may differ slightly 
than details outlined here.  Laboratory manuals, instructions, and 
collection flow charts should be followed.   
 
Required Equipment (provided by the clinical site)  
 
• 
2.0mL Eppendorf microcentrifuge tubes (for urine p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and 
CMPF) 
• 
-70oC or lower freezer for sample storage 
• 
Restroom with a toilet for the donor to have privacy while providing the urine 
specimen (single toilet restroom preferred) 
• 
Source of water for washing hands 
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 112 
CONFIDENTIAL 
Labeling  
  
1. Complete any appropriate information on the patient-specific Central Laboratory or Merck 
labels and place one on each of the polypropylene centrifuge tubes, and the 2.0mL 
microcentrifuge tubes. 
2. Fill out the Central Laboratory requisition form/card or Merck Inventory Form appropriately. 
 
Specimen Collection 
 
Patients should sit in a room with low fluorescent lighting for all biomarker and PK urine 
collections.  Lighting should be as low as possible but light enough for the collection to 
be done safely and effectively.   
 
CPI/CPIII is very light sensitive. Exposure to ambient light should be minimized to the 
greatest extent possible during sample collection and processing.  Precautions will 
include covering collection and processing tubes with aluminum foil. 
 
 
The labeled amber urine collection cup will have been provided to patient with verbal instructions 
on collecting (also see Appendix 6).  
 
NOTE:  The amber collection tube will be used for collection of all urine and further processed 
and aliquoted for PK and biomarkers.   
 
Specimen Processing & Handling 
 
Processing should occur in a room with low fluorescent lighting for all biomarker and PK 
processing.  Lighting should be as low as possible but light enough for the procedures to 
be done effectively.   
 
CPI/CPIII is very light sensitive. Exposure to ambient light should be minimized to the 
greatest extent possible during sample collection and processing.  Precautions will 
include covering collection and processing tubes with aluminum foil if they are not 
provided as amber. 
 
 
*NOTE: Begin processing immediately after collection, or within maximum of 30   minutes of 
collection. Keep samples on ice at all times until frozen. Freeze samples at -70oC or lower 
immediately after processing. 
 
 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 113 
CONFIDENTIAL 
1. From the urine collected at time points in the flow chart, before PK processing with buffer, 
transfer 1.0mL of urine to each the pre-labelled 2.0mL microcentrifuge tubes (two amber for 
PPD and one non-amber for Merck). 
 
2. Transfer all urine samples in upright position to the provided boxes for -80oC or lower freezer 
storage until shipment on dry ice. 
 
3. Discard any remaining urine per site guidelines. 
 
Specimen Storage 
 
1. Store the specimens in at -80oC or lower until shipment to Merck / Central Laboratory 
on DRY ICE. 
2. Any temperature excursions should be documented and communicated upon specimen 
shipment within the shipment inventory documents. 
 
*NOTE: Frozen tubes are subject to breakage on impact. To reduce the risk of 
breakage during handling and shipment, please package appropriately (i.e. place storage tubes 
in appropriately sized sample box). 
 
 
1. It is the responsibility of the primary investigator to ensure that all staff personnel 
who will be handling, packaging, and/or shipping clinical specimens are trained and 
certified as required by National and International regulations and they ship materials 
in accordance with all current regulations relating to the handling and shipping of 
hazardous goods. 
2. Contact shipping courier to obtain any required documentation/forms required for 
shipment. 
3. Follow packing and shipping instructions for DRY ICE shipments provided by 
Central Laboratory and/or shipping courier.  
4. All shipments should be made in freezer boxes containing sufficient DRY ICE, and 
labeled as HUMAN SAMPLES: NONINFECTIOUS 
*NOTE: The packaging and shipping instructions provided by the Central Lab and/or 
shipping courier are not considered nor are they intended to be formal Dangerous 
Goods training. 
5. Include a specimen inventory form with each shipment. 
Packaging and Shipping 
 
 
04VMX7

MK-0000 
 
Merck Protocol No.:  MK-0000-386-02 
Microdose Renal Impairment Study Protocol 
 
Celerion Project No.:  CA21005 
Merck 
 
 
CA21005_(MK-0000-386-02)_Amendment_2_Protocol_26Feb2018 
Page 114 
CONFIDENTIAL 
6. Shipments should be sent on a MONDAY or TUESDAY only to assure receipt by 
Friday. 
7. Ship pre-labelled 2.0mL microcentrifuge tubes (one non-amber for TMB/ Merck and 
two amber for PPD) to both of the following addresses: 
 
Address I (urine p-cresol sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and CMPF): 
 
TMB/ Merck Research Laboratories 
KW015C-C302-17 
2015 Galloping Hill Road 
Kenilworth, NJ 07033 
 
 
 
Address II (urine coproporhyrin I/III): 
PPD  
Central Labs 
Attn: 
 
2 Tesseneer Drive 
Highland Heights, KY 41070 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
04VMX7
PPD
PPD
PPD