Arikayce liposomal

1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

ANNEX I 
 

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 
 
  



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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg nebuliser dispersion 
 
 
2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 
Each vial contains amikacin sulfate equivalent to 590 mg amikacin in a liposomal formulation. The 
mean delivered dose per vial is approximately 312 mg of amikacin. 
 
For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 
 
 
3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 
Nebuliser dispersion 
 
White, milky, aqueous, nebuliser dispersion. 
 
 
4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 
4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is indicated for the treatment of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung 
infections caused by Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC) in adults with limited treatment options 
who do not have cystic fibrosis (see sections 4.2, 4.4 and 5.1).  
 
Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of antibacterial agents. 
 
4.2 Posology and method of administration 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal treatment should be initiated and managed by physicians experienced in the 
treatment of non-tuberculous lung disease due to Mycobacterium avium Complex. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal should be used in conjunction with other antibacterial agents active against 
Mycobacterium avium Complex lung infections. 
 
Posology 
 
The recommended dose is one vial (590 mg) administered once daily, by oral inhalation.  
 
Duration of treatment 
Treatment with inhaled liposomal amikacin, as part of a combination antibacterial regimen, should be 
continued for 12 months after sputum culture conversion.  
 
Treatment with inhaled liposomal amikacin should not continue beyond a maximum of 6 months if 
sputum culture conversion (SCC) has not been confirmed by then. 
 
The maximum duration of treatment with inhaled liposomal amikacin should not exceed 18 months. 
 
Missed doses 
If a daily dose of amikacin is missed, the next dose should be administered the next day. A double 
dose should not be given to make up for the missed dose. 
 
Elderly 
No dose adjustment is required. 



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Hepatic impairment 
Inhaled liposomal amikacin has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. No dose 
adjustments based on hepatic impairment are required since amikacin is not hepatically metabolised. 
 
Renal impairment 
Inhaled liposomal amikacin has not been studied in patients with renal impairment. Use is 
contraindicated in severe renal impairment (see sections 4.3 and 4.4). 
 
Paediatric population 
The safety and efficacy of inhaled liposomal amikacin in paediatric patients below 18 years of age 
have not been established. No data are available. 
 
Method of administration 
 
Inhalation use 
 
Inhaled liposomal amikacin must only be used with the Lamira Nebuliser System (nebuliser handset, 
aerosol head and controller). For instructions for use, see section 6.6. It must not be administered by 
any other route or using any other type of inhalation delivery system. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is administered only using a Lamira Nebuliser System. Like all other 
nebulised treatments, the amount delivered to the lungs will depend upon patient factors. Under 
recommended in vitro testing with the adult breathing pattern (500 mL tidal volume, 15 breaths per 
minute, and inhalation: exhalation ration of 1:1), the mean delivered dose from the mouthpiece was 
approximately 312 mg of amikacin (approximately 53% of label claim) with an average drug delivery 
rate of 22.3 mg/min assuming the nebulisation time of 14 minutes. The average mass median 
aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of the nebulised aerosol droplets is about 4.7 µm with D10 of 2.4 µm 
and D90 of 9.0 µm as determined using the next generation impactor method. 
 
4.3 Contraindications 
 
Hypersensitivity to the active substance, to any aminoglycoside antibacterial agent, or to any of the 
excipients listed in section 6.1. 
 
Hypersensitivity to soya. 
 
Co-administration with any aminoglycoside administered via any route of administration. 
 
Severe renal impairment. 
 
4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 
 
Anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity reactions 
 
Serious and potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been 
reported in patients taking inhaled liposomal amikacin. 
 
Before therapy with inhaled liposomal amikacin is instituted, an evaluation for previous 
hypersensitivity reactions to aminoglycosides should take place. If anaphylaxis or a hypersensitivity 
reaction occurs, inhaled liposomal amikacin should be discontinued and appropriate supportive 
measures should be instituted. 
 



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Allergic alveolitis 
 
Allergic alveolitis and pneumonitis have been reported with the use of inhaled liposomal amikacin in 
clinical studies (see section 4.8). 
 
If allergic alveolitis occurs, treatment with inhaled liposomal amikacin should be discontinued and 
patients should be treated as medically appropriate. 
 
Bronchospasm 
 
Bronchospasm has been reported with the use of inhaled liposomal amikacin in clinical studies. In 
patients with a history of reactive airway disease, asthma or bronchospasm, inhaled liposomal 
amikacin should be administered after using a short-acting bronchodilator. If there is evidence of 
bronchospasm due to inhaled liposomal amikacin inhalation, the patient may be pre-treated with 
bronchodilators (see section 4.8). 
 
Exacerbation of underlying pulmonary disease 
 
In clinical trials, exacerbation of underlying pulmonary disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary 
disease, infective exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, infective exacerbation of 
bronchiectasis) was reported with a higher frequency in patients treated with inhaled liposomal 
amikacin compared with patients not receiving inhaled liposomal amikacin. Caution should be 
exercised when initiating inhaled liposomal amikacin in patients presenting with these underlying 
conditions. Discontinuation of treatment with inhaled liposomal amikacin should be considered if 
signs of exacerbation are observed. 
 
Ototoxicity 
 
In clinical trials, ototoxicity, (including deafness, dizziness, presyncope, tinnitus, and vertigo) was 
reported with a higher frequency in patients treated with inhaled liposomal amikacin compared with 
patients not receiving inhaled liposomal amikacin. Tinnitus was the most commonly reported 
ototoxicity related adverse reaction.  
 
Auditory and vestibular function should be monitored periodically in all patients and frequent 
monitoring is advised in patients with known or suspected auditory or vestibular dysfunction.  
 
If ototoxicity occurs during treatment, consideration should be given to discontinuing inhaled 
liposomal amikacin. 
 
Nephrotoxicity 
 
Nephrotoxicity was reported in clinical trials in patients treated with inhaled liposomal amikacin. 
Renal function should be monitored periodically during treatment in all patients and frequent 
monitoring is advised in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction.  
Consideration should be given to stopping inhaled liposomal amikacin in patients who develop 
evidence of nephrotoxicity on treatment.  
 
Use in patients with severe renal impairment is contraindicated (see section 4.3). 
 
Neuromuscular blockade 
 
In clinical trials, neuromuscular disorders (reported as muscle weakness, neuropathy peripheral and 
balance disorder) have been reported with inhaled liposomal amikacin. Aminoglycosides may 
aggravate muscle weakness because of a curare-like effect at the neuromuscular junction. Use of 



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inhaled liposomal amikacin in patients with myasthenia gravis is not recommended. Patients with any 
known or suspected neuromuscular disorders should be closely monitored. 
 
Co-administration with other medicinal products 
 
Co-administration of inhaled liposomal amikacin with other aminoglycosides is contraindicated (see 
section 4.3). 
 
Co-administration with any other medicinal product affecting auditory function, vestibular function or 
renal function (including diuretics) is not recommended. 
 
4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 
No clinical drug interaction studies have been conducted with inhaled liposomal amikacin. 
 
Pharmacodynamic interactions 
 
Use of inhaled liposomal amikacin with any aminoglycoside administered by any route is 
contraindicated (see section 4.3). 
 
Concurrent and/or sequential use of inhaled liposomal amikacin is not recommended with other 
medicinal products with neurotoxic, nephrotoxic or ototoxic potential that can enhance 
aminoglycoside toxicity (e.g. diuretic compounds such as ethacrynic acid, furosemide or intravenous 
mannitol) (see section 4.4). 
 
4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation 
 
Pregnancy 
 
There are no data from the use of inhaled liposomal amikacin in pregnant women. Systemic exposure 
to amikacin following inhalation of inhaled liposomal amikacin is expected to be low compared to 
parenteral administration of amikacin.  
 
There are limited data from the use of aminoglycosides in pregnant women. Aminoglycosides can 
cause foetal harm. Aminoglycosides cross the placenta, and there have been reports of total, 
irreversible, bilateral congenital deafness in children, whose mothers received streptomycin during 
pregnancy. Although adverse reactions on the foetus or newborns have not been reported in pregnant 
women treated with other aminoglycosides, the potential for harm exists. Animal reproductive toxicity 
studies have not been conducted with inhaled amikacin. In reproductive toxicity studies in mice, rats 
and rabbits with amikacin administered parenterally, no foetal malformations were reported. 
 
As a precautionary measure, it is preferable to avoid the use of inhaled liposomal amikacin during 
pregnancy. 
 
Breast-feeding 
 
There is no information regarding the presence of amikacin in human milk. However, systemic 
exposure to inhaled liposomal amikacin following inhalation is expected to be low compared to 
parenteral administration of amikacin.  
 
A decision must be made whether to discontinue breast-feeding or to discontinue/abstain from inhaled 
liposomal amikacin therapy taking into account the benefit of breast feeding for the child and the 
benefit of therapy for the woman. 
 



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Fertility 
 
No fertility studies were conducted with inhaled liposomal amikacin. 
 
4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 
Amikacin has minor influence on the ability to drive and use machines. The administration of inhaled 
liposomal amikacin can cause dizziness and other vestibular disturbances (see section 4.8). Patients 
should be advised not to drive or operate machinery while using inhaled liposomal amikacin.  
 
4.8 Undesirable effects 
 
Summary of the safety profile  
 
The most commonly reported respiratory adverse reactions were dysphonia (42.6%), cough (30.9%), 
dyspnoea (14.4%), haemoptysis (10.9%), oropharyngeal pain (9.2%), and bronchospasm (2.2%). 
Other commonly reported non-respiratory adverse reactions included fatigue (7.2%), diarrhoea (6.4%), 
infective exacerbation of bronchiectasis (6.2%), and nausea (5.9%). 
 
Most common serious adverse reactions included Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) 
(1.5%), haemoptysis (1.2%), and infective exacerbation of bronchiectasis (1.0%). 
 
Tabulated list of adverse reactions 
 
Adverse drug reactions in Table 1 are listed according to system organ classes in MedDRA based on 
clinical trials and post marketing data. Within each system organ class, the following definitions apply 
to the frequency terminology used hereafter: very common (≥1/10); common (≥1/100 to <1/10); 
uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100); rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000); very rare (<1/10,000); not known: 
(cannot be estimated from the available data). 
 
Table 1 – Summary of adverse reactions 
 
System Organ Class Adverse reactions Frequency 

category 
Infections and infestations Infective exacerbation of 

bronchiectasis 
Common 

 Laryngitis Common 
 Oral candidiasis Common 
   
Immune system disorders Anaphylactic reactions Not known 
 Hypersensitivity reactions Not known 
   
Psychiatric disorders Anxiety Uncommon 
   
Nervous system disorders Headache Common 
 Dizziness Common 
 Dysgeusia Common 
 Aphonia Common 
 Balance disorder Common 
   
Ear and labyrinth disorders Tinnitus Common 
 Deafness Common 
   
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal  Dysphonia Very common 
disorders Dyspnoea Very common 
 Cough Very common 
 Haemoptysis Very common 



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System Organ Class Adverse reactions Frequency 
category 

 Oropharyngeal pain Common 
 Allergic alveolitis Common 
 Chronic Obstructive 

Pulmonary Disease 
Common 

 Wheezing Common 
 Productive cough Common 
 Sputum increased Common 
 Bronchospasm Common 
 Pneumonitis Common 
 Vocal cord inflammation Common 
 Throat irritation Common 
   
Gastrointestinal disorders Diarrhoea Common 
 Nausea Common 
 Vomiting Common 
 Dry mouth Common 
 Decrease of appetite Common 
   
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Rash Common 
 Pruritus Common 
   
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue 
disorders 

Myalgia Common 

 Arthralgia Common 
   
Renal and urinary disorders Renal impairment Common 
   
General disorders and administration 
site conditions 

Fatigue Common 

 Pyrexia Common 
 Chest discomfort Common 
   
Investigations Weight decreased Common 

 
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions 
 
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It 
allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare 
professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system 
listed in Appendix V. 
 
4.9 Overdose 
 
Adverse reactions specifically associated with overdose of inhaled liposomal amikacin have not been 
identified in clinical trials. Overdose in subjects with pre-existing impaired renal function, deafness or 
vestibular disturbance, or impaired neuromuscular transmission may develop worsening of the pre-
existing disorder. 
 
In the event of an overdose inhaled liposomal amikacin should be stopped immediately. Where rapid 
removal of amikacin is indicated to prevent target organ damage, for example in subjects with renal 
impairment, peritoneal dialysis or haemodialysis will accelerate the extraction of amikacin from blood. 
 
 

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


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5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 
5.1  Pharmacodynamic properties 
 
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Antibacterials for systemic use, other aminoglycosides. ATC code: 
J01GB06 
 
Mechanism of action 
 
Amikacin binds to a specific receptor protein on the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes and interferes 
with an initiation complex between mRNA (messenger RNA) and the 30S subunit resulting in 
inhibition of protein synthesis. 
 
Resistance 
 
The mechanism of resistance to amikacin in mycobacteria has been linked to mutations in the rrs gene 
of the 16S rRNA. 
 
Clinical experience 
 
The efficacy of inhaled liposomal amikacin was evaluated in study INS-212, a randomised, open-label 
study in adult patients with non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung infections caused by MAC. 
 
Patients who had not achieved sputum culture conversion (SCC) while being treated with Multiple 
Drug Regimen(s) (MDR) for at least 6 months before study entry were randomised to receive 
ARIKAYCE in addition to their MDR treatment or to continue with MDR alone. Patients achieving 
SCC, defined as 3 consecutive negative MAC sputum cultures by month 6 on treatment continued 
therapy for up to 12 months after achieving SCC. Those not achieving SCC by month 6 were 
discontinued from the study at month 8.  
 
A total of 335 patients were randomised and dosed (ARIKAYCE liposomal + MDR n = 223; MDR 
alone n = 112) (Safety population). Median duration of prior MDR treatment was 2.6 years and 
2.4 years in the ARIKAYCE liposomal + MDR and MDR alone group, respectively. Patients were 
stratified per smoking status (current smoker or not) and MDR use at screening (on treatment or off 
treatment for at least 3 months prior to screening). The primary endpoint was durable SCC defined as 
the proportion of randomised patients that had achieved SCC by month 6 on treatment and had no 
positive solid media culture or no more than two broth media cultures by 3 months off treatment. 
 
Sixty-five (29.0%) and 10 (8.9%) patients achieved SCC by month 6 on treatment in the ARIKAYCE 
liposomal + MDR and the MDR group, respectively (p< 0.0001). Of these, based on the primary 
analysis durable SCC at 3 months off treatment was achieved by 16.1% [36/224] vs. 0% [0/112]; p-
value <0.0001.  
 
In a post-hoc analysis that eliminated patients with negative cultures (solid media or broth) at study 
baseline and which counted any post-treatment positive culture (solid media or broth) as positive, 
30/224 (13.4%) in the ARIKAYCE liposomal + MDR group and 0/112 (0%) in the MDR group 
achieved durable SCC at 3 months off treatment. Respective rates at 12 months off treatment were 
25/224 (11%) vs. 0/112 (0%). 
 
Paediatric population  
 
The European Medicines Agency has deferred the obligation to submit the results of studies with 
inhaled liposomal amikacin in one or more subsets of the paediatric population in NTM lung infection 
(see section 4.2 for information on paediatric use). 
 



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5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 
 
Absorption 
 
Sputum concentrations 
Following once daily inhalation of 590 mg inhaled liposomal amikacin in MAC patients, sputum 
concentrations at 1 to 4 hours post-inhalation were 1720, 884, and 1300 µg/g at 1, 3, and 6 months, 
respectively. High variability in amikacin concentrations was observed (CV% > 100%). After 
48 to 72 hours post-inhalation, amikacin sputum concentrations decreased to approximately 5% of 
those at 1 to 4 hours post-inhalation. 
 
Serum concentrations 
Following daily inhalation of 590 mg ARIKAYCE in MAC patients, at steady state, the median serum 
AUC0-24 was 16.7 µg *hr/mL (range: 4.31 to 55.6 µg *hr/mL; n = 53) and the median serum Cmax was 
1.81 µg/mL (range: 0.482 to 6.87 μg/mL; n = 53). 
 
Distribution 
 
Amikacin is ≤ 10% bound to serum proteins. The mean total apparent volume of distribution has been 
estimated to be approximately 5.0 L/kg. 
 
Biotransformation 
 
Amikacin is not metabolised. 
 
Elimination 
 
Amikacin is excreted in the urine unchanged, primarily by glomerular filtration. The median apparent 
terminal serum half-life of amikacin after inhalation of ARIKAYCE liposomal ranged from 
approximately 3.29 to 14.0 hrs. 
 
A population pharmacokinetic analysis for ARIKAYCE liposomal in 53 subjects with NTM lung 
disease aged 20 to 84 years indicated that amikacin clearance is 34 L/h. The only clinical covariate 
identified to be predictive of amikacin clearance was body weight. 
 
5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 
Carcinogenicity 
 
In a 2-year inhalation carcinogenicity study with inhaled liposomal amikacin in rats at doses of 5, 15, 
and 45 mg/kg/day, squamous cell carcinoma was observed in the lungs of 2 of 120 rats (0/60 males 
and 2/60 females) administered the highest dose tested (45 mg/kg/day). This ARIKAYCE dose was 
6-fold greater than the clinical dose when normalised on a lung weight basis. No squamous cell 
carcinoma was observed at the mid-dose of 15 mg/kg/day, which was 2-fold greater than the clinical 
dose when normalised on a lung weight basis. The squamous cell carcinomas may be the result of a 
high lung burden of particulates from inhaled liposomal amikacin in the rat lung. The relevance of the 
lung tumour findings with regards to humans receiving inhaled liposomal amikacin is unknown. In 
dogs administered inhaled liposomal amikacin daily by inhalation for 9 months at doses up to 
30 mg/kg/day, no preneoplastic or neoplastic changes were observed in the lungs (approximately 
3 to 11 times the recommended human dose based on lung weight). 
 
Genotoxicity 
 
No evidence of mutagenicity or genotoxicity was observed in a battery of in vitro and in vivo 
genotoxicity studies with liposomal amikacin formulations (in vitro microbial mutagenesis test, in 
vitro mouse lymphoma mutation assay, in vitro chromosomal aberration study, and an in vivo 
micronucleus study in rats). 



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Reproductive and development toxicity 
 
Animal reproductive toxicology studies have not been conducted with inhaled amikacin. In non-GLP 
reproduction toxicology studies in mice and rats with parenterally administered amikacin, no effect of 
fertility or foetal toxicity was reported.  
 
 
6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 
 
6.1 List of excipients 
 
Cholesterol 
Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) 
Sodium chloride  
Sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment) 
Water for injections 
 
6.2 Incompatibilities 
 
In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal 
products. 
 
6.3 Shelf life 
 
3 years  
 
6.4 Special precautions for storage 
 
Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C). 
 
Do not freeze. 
 
ARIKAYCE can be stored at room temperature below 25 °C for up to 4 weeks. 
 
6.5 Nature and contents of container 
 
Each 10 mL clear, Type I borosilicate glass vial is sealed with a bromobutyl rubber stopper and 
aluminium seal with a flip-tear off cap. 
 
Pack-size of 28 vials. The carton also contains the Lamira Nebuliser Handset and 4 aerosol heads. 
 
6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling 
 
Discard any vial that has been frozen. 
Once at room temperature, any unused medicine must be discarded at the end of 4 weeks. 
 
If the current dose is refrigerated, the vial of ARIKAYCE liposomal should be removed from the 
refrigerator and be allowed to come to room temperature. Prepare ARIKAYCE liposomal by shaking 
the vial vigorously until the contents appear uniform and well mixed. Open the vial of ARIKAYCE 
liposomal by flipping up the plastic top of the vial, then pulling downward to loosen the metal ring. 
Carefully remove the metal ring and remove the rubber stopper. Pour the content of the ARIKAYCE 
liposomal vial into the medicine reservoir of the Lamira Nebuliser Handset. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is administered by oral inhalation via nebulisation using the Lamira Nebuliser 
System. ARIKAYCE liposomal should only be used with the Lamira Nebuliser System (nebuliser 



11 

handset, aerosol head, and controller). ARIKAYCE should not be used with any other type of 
inhalation delivery system. Do not put other medicinal products in the Lamira Nebuliser Handset. 
 
Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. 
 
 
7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Insmed Netherlands B.V. 
Stadsplateau 7 
3521 AZ Utrecht 
Netherlands 
 
 
8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/20/1469/001 
 
 
9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 
Date of first authorisation:  
 
 
10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 
 
 
 
Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 
Agency http://www.ema.europa.eu. 
  

http://www.ema.europa.eu/


12 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

ANNEX II 
 

A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH 
RELEASE 

 
B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY 

AND USE 
 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE 
MARKETING AUTHORISATION 

 
D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO 

THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL 
PRODUCT 

 



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A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 
 
Name and address of the manufacturer responsible for batch release 
 
Almac Pharma Services (Ireland) Ltd. 
Finnabair Industrial Estate, 
Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 P9KD, 
Ireland 
 
 
B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE 
 
Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (see section 4.2). 
 
 
C.  OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING 

AUTHORISATION 
 
• Periodic Safety Update Reports 
 
The requirements for submission of periodic safety update reports for this medicinal product are 
set out in the list of Union reference dates (EURD list) provided for under Article 107c(7) of 
Directive 2001/83/EC and any subsequent updates published on the European medicines web-
portal. 
 
 
D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
• Risk Management Plan (RMP) 
 
The MAH shall perform the required pharmacovigilance activities and interventions detailed in 
the agreed RMP presented in Module 1.8.2 of the Marketing Authorisation and any agreed 
subsequent updates of the RMP. 
 
An updated RMP should be submitted: 
• At the request of the European Medicines Agency; 
• Whenever the risk management system is modified, especially as the result of new information 

being received that may lead to a significant change to the benefit/risk profile or as the result of 
an important (pharmacovigilance or risk minimisation) milestone being reached. 

 
• Additional risk minimisation measures 
 
The MAH has developed a patient alert card which will be included in the outer carton. The wording 
of the alert card is part of the labelling - please see Annex III, A. LABELLING.  
 
The purpose of the alert card is to inform patients that the use of ARIKAYCE liposomal may be 
associated with the development of allergic alveolitis. 
  



14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

ANNEX III 
 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 
  



15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A. LABELLING 
  



16 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING  
 
OUTER CARTON FOR 28 VIALS CONTAINED IN 4 INNER CARTONS 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg nebuliser dispersion 
amikacin 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
Each vial contains amikacin sulfate equivalent to 590 mg amikacin in a liposomal formulation. 
The mean delivered dose per vial is approximately 312 mg of amikacin. 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Excipients: cholesterol, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide 
and water for injections 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Nebuliser dispersion 
 
28 vials 
4 Lamira aerosol heads 
1 Lamira Nebuliser Handset 
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Read the package leaflet before use. 
Inhalation use. 
 
 
6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 
 
Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 
 
 
7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP 
 
 



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9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 
 
Store in a refrigerator. 
Do not freeze. 
Unopened vials can be stored at room temperature below 25 °C for up to 4 weeks. 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
 
11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Insmed Netherlands B.V. 
Stadsplateau 7 
3521 AZ Utrecht 
Netherlands 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/20/1469/001 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Arikayce 
 
 
17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE  
 
2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 
 
 
18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 
 
PC 
SN 
NN 
 
 
  



18 

 
PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 
 
INNER CARTON WITH TRAY FOR 7 VIALS AND 1 LAMIRA AEROSOL HEAD 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg nebuliser dispersion 
amikacin 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
Each vial contains amikacin sulfate equivalent to 590 mg amikacin in a liposomal formulation. 
The mean delivered dose per vial is approximately 312 mg of amikacin. 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Excipients: cholesterol, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide 
and water for injections 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Nebuliser dispersion 
 
7 vials 
1 Lamira aerosol head 
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Read the package leaflet before use. 
Inhalation use. 
 
 
6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 
 
Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 
 
 
7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
See vial for batch number and expiry date 
 
 



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9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 
 
Store in a refrigerator. 
Do not freeze. 
Unopened vials can be stored at room temperature up to 25 °C for up to 4 weeks. 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
 
11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Insmed Netherlands B.V. 
Stadsplateau 7 
3521 AZ Utrecht 
Netherlands 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S)  
 
EU/1/20/1469/001 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
See vial for batch number and expiry date 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
 
17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE  
 
 
18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 
 
 



20 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 
 
VIAL  
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg nebuliser dispersion 
amikacin 
 
 
2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Inhalation use 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot 
 
 
5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 
 
10 mL 
 
 
6. OTHER 
 



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PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE PATIENT ALERT CARD 
 
 
1. OTHER 
 
Front side 
 
PATIENT ALERT CARD 
 
Important safety information 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg 
(amikacin) 
 
Insmed 
 
Reverse side 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal (amikacin) may cause serious side effects.  
These may happen any time during treatment.  
You may experience more than one side effect at the same time. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal may be associated with the development of an allergic lung condition 
(allergic alveolitis) 
 
CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you develop any signs or symptoms such as: 
• Fever, cough, worsening breathlessness, weight loss  
• Lung condition gets worse, affecting your breathing or overall health 
 
Your doctor may give you other medicines to prevent more severe complications and reduce 
your symptoms. Your doctor may decide to stop treatment. 
 
Important 
• Do not attempt to diagnose or treat side effects yourself. 
• Please keep this card with you at all times, especially when you travel, whenever you go to 

the Emergency department, or when you must see another doctor. 
• Be sure to notify any health care professional you see that you are being treated with 

ARIKAYCE liposomal and show them this card. 
• If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible 

side effects not listed on this card. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal start date 
 
  



22 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 



23 

Package leaflet: Information for the patient 
 

ARIKAYCE liposomal 590 mg nebuliser dispersion 
amikacin 

 
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start using this medicine because it contains 
important information for you. 
- Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.  
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, 

even if their signs of illness are the same as yours.  
- If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side 

effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4. 
 
What is in this leaflet 
 
1. What ARIKAYCE liposomal is and what it is used for 
2. What you need to know before you use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
3. How to use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
4. Possible side effects 
5. How to store ARIKAYCE liposomal 
6. Contents of the pack and other information 
7.  Instructions for use 
 
 
1. What ARIKAYCE liposomal is and what it is used for 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is an antibiotic that contains the active ingredient amikacin. Amikacin 
belongs to a group of antibiotics called aminoglycosides which stop the growth of certain bacteria that 
cause infections. 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is used by inhalation to treat lung infection caused by Mycobacterium avium 
Complex in adults with limited treatment options who do not have cystic fibrosis. 
 
 
2. What you need to know before you use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
 
Do not use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
- if you are allergic to amikacin or other aminoglycosides, soya or any of the other ingredients 

of this medicine (listed in section 6) 
- if you are taking any other aminoglycosides (oral or for injection) 
- if you have very poor kidney function 
 
Warnings and precautions 
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using ARIKAYCE liposomal if: 
- you use a bronchodilator (“reliever”) for breathing problems, as you will be asked to use that 

first, before using ARIKAYCE liposomal; 
- you have kidney problems; you may need to have a kidney test before starting treatment; 
- you have hearing difficulties, ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus) or balance problems 

including spinning sensation, lack of coordinated muscle movements, dizziness or light-
headedness. You may have to have a hearing test before starting or during treatment, if you have 
any hearing problems; 

- you suffer from other lung diseases;  
- you have a disease that causes muscle weakness and fatigue, such as myasthenia gravis. 
 



24 

Talk to your doctor immediately if, whilst using ARIKAYCE liposomal you experience any of the 
below: 
- loss of consciousness, skin rash, fever, worsening or new problems with your breathing; 
- worsening of kidney problems;  
- ear problems like ringing in your ears or loss of hearing.  
See section 4. 
 
Children and adolescents 
ARIKAYCE liposomal should not be given to children and adolescents less than 18 years old. 
 
Other medicines and ARIKAYCE liposomal 
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other 
medicines. 
 
Special care is needed if you are taking other medicines, as some could interact with ARIKAYCE 
liposomal, for example: 
- diuretics (“water tablets”) such as ethacrynic acid, furosemide, or mannitol 
- other medicines that can affect your kidneys, hearing, balance or reduce muscle strength  
 
Pregnancy and breast-feeding 
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, the 
use of ARIKAYCE liposomal should be avoided. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before 
using this medicine. 
 
If you become pregnant while using ARIKAYCE liposomal, inform your doctor. He will advise 
whether to stop using ARIKAYCE liposomal. 
 
It is not known if amikacin passes into breast milk in humans. If you are breastfeeding, your doctor 
will advise you whether to stop breast-feeding or stop treatment with this medicine. 
 
Driving and using machines 
ARIKAYCE liposomal can cause dizziness and other vestibular disturbances, such as vertigo and 
balance disorders. You are advised not to drive or operate machinery while inhaling ARIKAYCE 
liposomal. If you have questions, please talk to your doctor. 
 
 
3. How to use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
 
Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor if you are not 
sure. 
 
The recommended dose is one vial of ARIKAYCE liposomal inhaled in your mouth once a day, using 
the Lamira Nebuliser. After 6 months of treatment your doctor will advise whether to continue or to 
stop treatment. The maximum duration of treatment is 18 months.  
 
Taking ARIKAYCE liposomal 
 
If you use a bronchodilator (“reliever”), use that first, before using ARIKAYCE liposomal. 
Each vial is for single use only. 
- Only use ARIKAYCE liposomal with the Lamira Nebuliser Handset and aerosol head 

connected to a Lamira Control Unit. See section 7 for how to use the medicine together with the 
Lamira Nebuliser System. 

- Do not use ARIKAYCE liposomal with any other type of handset or aerosol head. 
- Do not put other medicines in the Lamira Nebuliser Handset. 
- Do not drink the liquid in the vial. 
- Read the instructions for use, which are provided at the end of this leaflet. 
 



25 

How and when do you replace the Lamira Nebuliser Handset? 
One Lamira Nebuliser Handset should be used for one 28-day treatment course. The aerosol head 
should be replaced weekly. There are 4 aerosol heads provided in each ARIKAYCE liposomal carton. 
Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for use for cleaning and storage advice. 
 
If you use more ARIKAYCE liposomal than you should 
Tell your doctor immediately if you are concerned that you may have used too much of this medicine. 
 
If you forget to use ARIKAYCE liposomal 
If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as possible on the day of the missed dose. Do not 
take more than one dose on the same day to make up for a forgotten dose. 
 
If you stop using ARIKAYCE liposomal 
You must tell your doctor if you decide to stop using ARIKAYCE liposomal for any reason. 
 
If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
 
 
4. Possible side effects 
 
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 
 
Tell your doctor immediately if: 
- you experience any hypersensitivity or severe allergic reactions when taking ARIKAYCE 

liposomal (e.g. with low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, severe skin rash or severe 
wheezing and breathlessness). The frequency of these side effects is not known. 

- you experience worsening of your usual lung problems or new problems with your breathing 
(e.g. breathlessness or wheezing). This may be a sign of severe inflammation in the lungs that 
requires treatment and may mean you should stop taking ARIKAYCE liposomal. The frequency 
of these severe side effects is common to very common. 

 
Other side effects: 
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any of the following: 
 
Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) 
- Difficulty in speaking 
- Difficulty in breathing 
- Cough 
- Coughing up blood 
 
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) 
- Infection causing worsening of your lung condition 
- Increase in mucus coughed up from lungs 
- Chesty cough  
- Wheezing  
- Throat irritation 
- Sore throat 
- Loss of voice 
- Thrush (a fungal infection) in the mouth 
- Pain in the mouth 
- Change in your sense of taste 
- Lung inflammation 
- Headache 
- Dizziness  
- Feeling unsteady  
- Diarrhoea 
- Feeling sick (nausea) 



26 

- Being sick (vomiting)  
- Dry mouth 
- Decrease of appetite 
- Itching of the skin 
- Deafness 
- Ringing in your ears 
- Kidney problems including poor kidney function 
- Joint pain 
- Muscle pain 
- Rash 
- Tiredness 
- Discomfort in chest 
- Fever 
- Loss of weight 
 
Uncommon side effect (may affect up to 1 in 100 people) 
- Anxiety 
 
Reporting of side effects 
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects 
not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system 
listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of 
this medicine. 
 
 
5. How to store ARIKAYCE liposomal 
 
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. 
 
Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the vial after EXP. The expiry date 
refers to the last day of that month. 
 
Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C). Do not freeze, discard any vial that has been frozen.  
 
If the dose you want to use is refrigerated, remove the vial from the refrigerator and allow it to come to 
room temperature before using it.  
 
Alternatively, ARIKAYCE liposomal can be stored at room temperature below 25 °C, but only for up 
to 4 weeks. Once at room temperature, any unused medicinal product must be discarded at the end of 
4 weeks. 
 
This medicine is a milky white liquid in a clear vial. Do not use if you notice change in colour or any 
small lumps floating in the vial.  
 
Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment. 
 
 
6. Contents of the pack and other information 
 
What ARIKAYCE liposomal contains 
- The active substance is amikacin. Each vial contains amikacin sulfate equivalent to 590 mg 

amikacin in a liposomal formulation. The mean delivered dose per vial is approximately 312 mg 
of amikacin. 

- The other ingredients are cholesterol, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), sodium chloride, 
sodium hydroxide and water for injections. 

 

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


27 

What ARIKAYCE liposomal looks like and contents of the pack 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is a white to off-white, milky nebuliser dispersion in a 10 mL glass vial sealed 
with a rubber stopper and a metal seal with a flip tear-off cap. 
 
The 28 vials are provided in a carton for a 28-day supply; one vial per day. One ARIKAYCE 
liposomal carton contains 4 inner cartons, each containing 7 vials and one aerosol head. The 28-day 
supply pack also contains 1 Lamira Nebuliser Handset. 
 
Marketing Authorisation Holder 
Insmed Netherlands B.V. 
Stadsplateau 7 
3521 AZ Utrecht 
Netherlands 
 
Manufacturer 
Almac Pharma Services (Ireland) Ltd. 
Finnabair Industrial Estate,  
Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 P9KD, 
Ireland 
 
 
This leaflet was last revised in {month/YYYY}. 
 
Other sources of information 
 
Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site: 
http://www.ema.europa.eu. There are also links to other websites about rare diseases and treatments. 



28 

7. Instructions for use 
 
ARIKAYCE liposomal is for oral inhalation use with the Lamira Nebuliser System. 
Before using your Lamira Nebuliser System, be sure you read and understand the detailed 
information in the full Instructions for Use that come with the Lamira Nebuliser System. These 
will provide more complete information about how to put together (assemble), prepare, use, clean, 
and disinfect your Lamira Nebuliser System.  
 
Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them well. 
 
Assemble the handset including the connection to the controller as illustrated in the full Instructions 
for Use. 
 
Preparing the medicine for use: 
 
1.  It is recommended that the vial be removed from the refrigerator at least 45 minutes before use 

to allow it to come to room temperature. Do not use other medicines in the Lamira Nebuliser 
Handset. 

 
2.  Shake the ARIKAYCE liposomal vial vigorously, until the medicine looks the same throughout 

and well mixed. 
 
3.  Lift orange cap from vial and put aside (Figure 1). 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Figure 1 

 
4.  Grip the metal ring on top of the vial and pull it down gently until one side breaks away from 

the vial (Figure 2). 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Figure 2 

 
5.  Pull the metal band from around the vial top in a circular motion until it comes off completely 

from the vial (Figure 3). 
 



29 

 

 
 
 
 
Figure 3 

 
6.  Put aside the metal ring after it is detached. Carefully remove the rubber stopper (Figure 4). 
 

  
 
 
 
Figure 4 

 
7.  Pour the contents of the ARIKAYCE liposomal vial into the medicine’s reservoir of the Lamira 

Nebuliser Handset (Figure 5).  
 

  
 
 
 
Figure 5 

 
8.  Close the medication reservoir (Figure 6). 
 

  
 
 
 
Figure 6 

 
9.  Sit in a relaxed, upright position. This makes inhaling easier and helps the medicine get into 

your lungs.  
 



30 

10. Insert the mouthpiece and take slow, deep breaths. Then, breathe normally in and out through 
the mouthpiece until your treatment is complete. Treatment should take about 14 minutes but 
could take up to 20 minutes. Be sure to hold the handset level throughout the treatment 
(Figure 7). 

 
  

 
 
 
Figure 7 

 
 

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE
	C.  OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET