Busilvex

1

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
ANNEX I 

 
SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 



 

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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Busilvex 6 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion  
 
 
2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 
One ml of concentrate contains 6 mg of busulfan (60 mg in 10 ml). 
After dilution: 1 ml of solution contains 0.5 mg of busulfan 
For the full list of excipients see section 6.1 
 
 
3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 
Concentrate for solution for infusion (sterile concentrate). 
Clear, colourless solution. 
 
 
4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 
4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 
Busilvex followed by cyclophosphamide (BuCy2) is indicated as conditioning treatment prior to 
conventional haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT) in adult patients when the 
combination is considered the best available option. 
 
Busilvex following fludarabine (FB) is indicated as conditioning treatment prior to haematopoietic 
progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT) in adult patients who are candidates for a reduced-intensity 
conditioning (RIC) regimen. 
 
Busilvex followed by cyclophosphamide (BuCy4) or melphalan (BuMel) is indicated as conditioning 
treatment prior to conventional haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation in paediatric patients. 
 
4.2 Posology and method of administration 
 
Busilvex administration should be supervised by a physician experienced in conditioning treatment 
prior to haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation. 
 
Busilvex is administered prior to the haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT). 
 
Posology 
Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide or melphalan  
In adults 
The recommended dose and schedule of administration is: 

- 0.8 mg/kg body weight (BW) of busulfan as a two-hour infusion every 6 hours over 4 
consecutive days for a total of 16 doses, 

- followed by cyclophosphamide at 60 mg/kg/day over 2 days initiated for at least 24 hours 
following the 16th dose of Busilvex (see section 4.5). 

 



 

 3

Paediatric population (0 to 17 years) 
The recommended dose of Busilvex is as follows: 
 

Actual body weight (kg) Busilvex dose (mg/kg) 
< 9 1.0 

9 to < 16 1.2 
16 to 23 1.1 

> 23 to 34 0.95 
> 34 0.8 

 
followed by: 

- 4 cycles of 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) cyclophosphamide (BuCy4) or  
- one administration of 140 mg/m² melphalan (BuMel)  
initiated for at least 24 hours following the 16th dose of Busilvex.(see section 4.5). 

 
Busilvex is administered as a two-hour infusion every 6 hours over 4 consecutive days for a total of 16 
doses prior to cyclophosphamide or melphalan and haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation 
(HPCT).  
 
Elderly patients 
Patients older than 50 years of age (n=23) have been successfully treated with Busilvex without dose-
adjustment. However, for the safe use of Busilvex in patients older than 60 years only limited 
information is available. Same dose (see section 5.2) for elderly patients as for adults (< 50 years old) 
should be used. 
 
Busilvex in combination with fludarabine (FB) 
In adults  
The recommended dose and schedule of administration is: 

- fludarabine administered as a single daily one-hour infusion at 30 mg/m² for 5 consecutive days 
or 40 mg/m² for 4 consecutive days. 

- Busilvex will be administered at 3.2 mg/kg as a single daily three-hour infusion immediately 
after fludarabine for 2 or 3 consecutive days.  

 
Paediatric population (0 to 17 years) 
The safety and efficacy of FB in pediatric population has not been established. 
 
Elderly patients 
The administration of FB regimen has not been specifically investigated in elderly patients. However, 
more than 500 patients aged ≥ 55 years were reported in publications with FB conditioning regimens, 
yielding efficacy outcomes similar to younger patients. No dose adjustment was deemed necessary.  
 
Obese patients 
In adults 
For obese patients, dosing based on adjusted ideal body weight (AIBW) should be considered. 
 
Ideal body weight (IBW) is calculated as follows: 
IBW men (kg) = 50 + 0.91x (height in cm-152); 
IBW women (kg) = 45 + 0.91x (height in cm-152). 
 
Adjusted ideal body weight (AIBW) is calculated as follows: 
AIBW= IBW+0.25x (actual body weight - IBW). 
 
In paediatric population 
The medicinal product is not recommended in obese children and adolescents with body mass index 
Weight (kg)/(m²) > 30 kg/m² until further data become available. 
 



 

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Patients with renal impairment 
Studies in renally impaired patients have not been conducted, however, as busulfan is moderately 
excreted in the urine, dose modification is not recommended in these patients. 
However, caution is recommended (see sections 4.8 and 5.2). 
 
Patients with hepatic impairment 
Busilvex as well as busulfan has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. 
Caution is recommended, particularly in those patients with severe hepatic impairment (see section 
4.4). 
 
Method of administration 
Precautions to be taken before handling or administering the medicinal product 
Busilvex must be diluted prior to administration. A final concentration of approximately 0.5 mg/ml 
busulfan should be achieved. Busilvex should be administered by intravenous infusion via central 
venous catheter. 
 
For instructions on dilution of the medicinal product before administration, see section 6.6. 
 
Busilvex should not be given by rapid intravenous, bolus or peripheral injection.  
 
All patients should be pre-medicated with anticonvulsant medicinal products to prevent seizures 
reported with the use of high dose busulfan.  
It is recommended to administer anticonvulsants 12 h prior to Busilvex to 24 h after the last dose of 
Busilvex. 
 
In adult and paediatric studies, patients received either phenytoin or benzodiazepines as seizure 
prophylaxis treatment. (see sections 4.4 and 4.5). 
 
Antiemetics should be administered prior to the first dose of Busilvex and continued on a fixed 
schedule according to local practice through its administration. 
 
4.3 Contraindications 
 
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1. 
Pregnancy (see section 4.6).  
 
4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 
 
The consequence of treatment with Busilvex at the recommended dose and schedule is profound 
myelosuppression, occurring in all patients. Severe granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia, or 
any combination thereof may develop. Frequent complete blood counts, including differential white 
blood cell counts, and platelet counts should be monitored during the treatment and until recovery is 
achieved. 
Prophylactic or empiric use of anti-infectives (bacterial, fungal, viral) should be considered for the 
prevention and management of infections during the neutropenic period. Platelet and red blood cell 
support, as well as the use of growth factors such as granulocyte colony stimulating agent (G-CSF), 
should be employed as medically indicated. 
 
In adults, absolute neutrophil counts < 0.5x109/l at a median of 4 days post transplant occurred in 
100% of patients and recovered at median day 10 and 13 days following autologous and allogeneic 
transplant respectively (median neutropenic period of 6 and 9 days respectively). Thrombocytopenia 
(< 25x109/l or requiring platelet transfusion) occurred at a median of 5-6 days in 98% of patients. 
Anaemia (haemoglobin< 8.0 g/dl) occurred in 69% of patients.  
 
In paediatric population, absolute neutrophil counts < 0.5x109/l at a median of 3 days post transplant 
occurred in 100% of patients and lasted 5 and 18.5 days in autologous and allogeneic transplant 



 

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respectively. In children, thrombocytopenia (< 25x109/l or requiring platelet transfusion) occurred in 
100% of patients. Anaemia (haemoglobin< 8.0 g/dl) occurred in 100% of patients.  
 
In children < 9 kg, a therapeutic drug monitoring may be justified on a case by case basis, in particular 
in extremely young children and neonates (see section 5.2). 
 
The Fanconi anaemia cells have hypersensitivity to cross-linking agents. There is limited clinical 
experience of the use of busulfan as a component of a conditioning regimen prior to HSCT in children 
with Fanconi’s anaemia. Therefore Busilvex should be used with caution in this type of patients. 
 
Hepatic impairment  
Busilvex as well as busulfan has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. Since busulfan 
is mainly metabolized through the liver, caution should be observed when Busilvex is used in patients 
with pre-existing impairment of liver function, especially in those with severe hepatic impairment. It is 
recommended when treating these patients that serum transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and 
bilirubin should be monitored regularly 28 days following transplant for early detection of 
hepatotoxicity. 
 
Hepatic veno-occlusive disease is a major complication that can occur during treatment with Busilvex. 
Patients who have received prior radiation therapy, greater than or equal to three cycles of 
chemotherapy, or prior progenitor cell transplant may be at an increased risk (see section 4.8). 
 
Caution should be exercised when using paracetamol prior to (less than 72 hours) or concurrently with 
Busilvex due to a possible decrease in the metabolism of busulfan (See section 4.5). 
 
As documented in clinical studies, no treated patients experienced cardiac tamponade or other specific 
cardiac toxicities related to Busilvex. However cardiac function should be monitored regularly in 
patients receiving Busilvex (see section 4.8). 
 
Occurrence of acute respiratory distress syndrome with subsequent respiratory failure associated with 
interstitial pulmonary fibrosis was reported in Busilvex studies in one patient who died, although, no 
clear aetiology was identified. In addition, busulfan might induce pulmonary toxicity that may be 
additive to the effects produced by other cytotoxic agents. Therefore, attention should be paid to this 
pulmonary issue in patients with prior history of mediastinal or pulmonary radiation (see section 4.8). 
 
Periodic monitoring of renal function should be considered during therapy with Busilvex (see section 
4.8). 
 
Seizures have been reported with high dose busulfan treatment. Special caution should be exercised 
when administering the recommended dose of Busilvex to patients with a history of seizures. Patients 
should receive adequate anticonvulsant prophylaxis. In adults and children studies, data with Busilvex 
were obtained when using concomitant administration of either phenytoin or benzodiazepines for 
seizure prophylaxis. The effect of those anticonvulsant agents on busulfan pharmacokinetics was 
investigated in a phase II study (see section 4.5). 
 
The increased risk of a second malignancy should be explained to the patient. On the basis of human 
data, busulfan has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a 
human carcinogen. The World Health Organisation has concluded that there is a causal relationship 
between busulfan exposure and cancer. Leukaemia patients treated with busulfan developed many 
different cytological abnormalities, and some developed carcinomas. Busulfan is thought to be 
leukemogenic. 
 
Fertility 
Busulfan can impair fertility. Therefore, men treated with Busilvex are advised not to father a child 
during and up to 6 months after treatment and to seek advice on cryo-conservation of sperm prior to 
treatment because of the possibility of irreversible infertility due to therapy with Busilvex. Ovarian 
suppression and amenorrhoea with menopausal symptoms commonly occur in pre-menopausal 



 

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patients. Busulfan treatment in a pre-adolescent girl prevented the onset of puberty due to ovarian 
failure. Impotence, sterility, azoospermia, and testicular atrophy have been reported in male patients. 
The solvent dimethylacetamide (DMA) may also impair fertility. DMA decreases fertility in male and 
female rodents (see sections 4.6 and 5.3). 
 
Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), including fatal 
cases, have been reported in high-dose conditioning regimens in which busulfan was administered in 
combination with another conditioning treatment. 
 
4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 
No specific clinical trial was carried out to assess drug-drug interaction between intravenous busulfan 
and itraconazole or metronidazole. From published studies in adults, administration of itraconazole to 
patients receiving high-dose busulfan may result in reduced busulfan clearance. Also, there are 
published case reports of increased plasma levels of busulfan after administration of metronidazole. 
Patients who are concurrently treated with busulfan and itraconazole or metronidazole should be 
closely monitored for signs of busulfan toxicity. 
No interaction was observed when busulfan was combined with fluconazole (antifungal agent) 
Published studies in adults described that ketobemidone (analgesic) might be associated with high 
levels of plasma busulfan. Therefore special care is recommended when combining these two 
compounds. 
 
In adults, for the BuCy2 regimen it has been reported that the time interval between the last oral 
busulfan administration and the first cyclophosphamide administration may influence the development 
of toxicities. A reduced incidence of Hepatic Veno Occlusive Disease (HVOD) and other regimen-
related toxicity have been observed in patients when the lag time between the last dose of oral 
busulfan and the first dose of cyclophosphamide is > 24hours. 
 
There is no common metabolism pathway between busulfan and fludarabine.  
In adults, for the FB regimen, published studies did not report any mutual drug-drug interaction 
between intravenous busulfan and fludarabine. 
 
In paediatric population, for the BuMel regimen it has been reported that the administration of 
melphalan less than 24 hours after the last oral busulfan administration may influence the development 
of toxicities. 
 
Paracetamol is described to decrease glutathione levels in blood and tissues, and may therefore 
decrease busulfan clearance when used in combination (see section 4.4). 
 
Either phenytoin or benzodiazepines were administered for seizure prophylaxis in patients 
participating to the clinical trials conducted with intravenous busulfan (see section 4.2 and 4.4).  
The concomitant systemic administration of phenytoin to patients receiving high-dose of oral busulfan 
has been reported to increase busulfan clearance, due to induction of glutathion-S-transferase whereas 
no interaction has been reported when benzodiazepines such as diazepam, clonazepam or lorazepam 
have been used to prevent seizures with high-dose busulfan.  
No evidence of an induction effect of phenytoin has been seen on Busilvex data. A phase II clinical 
trial was performed to evaluate the influence of seizure prophylaxis treatment on intravenous busulfan 
pharmacokinetics. In this study, 24 adult patients received clonazepam (0.025-0.03 mg/kg/day as IV 
continuous infusions) as anticonvulsant therapy and the PK data of these patients were compared to 
historical data collected in patients treated with phenytoin. The analysis of data through a population 
pharmacokinetic method indicated no difference on intravenous busulfan clearance between phenytoin 
and clonazepam based therapy and therefore similar busulfan plasma exposures were achieved 
whatever the type of seizure prophylaxis. 
  
No interaction was observed when busulfan was combined with 5 HT3 antiemetics such as 
ondansetron or granisetron. 
 



 

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4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation 
 
Pregnancy 
HPCT is contraindicated in pregnant women; therefore, Busilvex is contraindicated during pregnancy. 
Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity (embryo-fetal lethality and malformations). (see 
section 5.3) 
There are no or limited amount of data from the use of busulfan or DMA in pregnant women. A few 
cases of congenital abnormalities have been reported with low-dose oral busulfan, not necessarily 
attributable to the active substance, and third trimester exposure may be associated with impaired 
intrauterine growth.  
 
Women of childbearing potential 
Women of childbearing potential have to use effective contraception during and up to 6 months after 
treatment. 
 
Breast-feeding 
It is unknown whether busulfan and DMA are excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for 
tumorigenicity shown for busulfan in human and animal studies, breast-feeding should be 
discontinued during treatment with busulfan. 
 
Fertility 
Busulfan and DMA can impair fertility in man or woman. Therefore it is advised not to father child 
during the treatment and up to 6 months after treatment and to seek advice on cryo-conservation of 
sperm prior to treatment because of the possibility of irreversible infertility (see section 4.4). 
 
4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 
Not relevant 
 
4.8 Undesirable effects 
 
Summary of the safety profile 
 
Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide or melphalan  
In adults 
Adverse events information is derived from two clinical trials (n=103) of Busilvex.  
Serious toxicities involving the haematologic, hepatic and respiratory systems were considered as 
expected consequences of the conditioning regimen and transplant process. These include infection 
and Graft-versus host disease (GVHD) which although not directly related, were the major causes of 
morbidity and mortality, especially in allogeneic HPCT. 
 
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: 
Myelo-suppression and immuno-suppression were the desired therapeutic effects of the conditioning 
regimen. Therefore all patients experienced profound cytopenia: leucopenia 96%, thrombocytopenia 
94%, and anemia 88%. The median time to neutropenia was 4 days for both autologous and allogeneic 
patients. The median duration of neutropenia was 6 days and 9 days for autologous and allogeneic 
patients.  
 
Immune system disorders: 
The incidence of acute graft versus host disease (a-GVHD) data was collected in OMC-BUS-4 study 
(allogeneic)(n=61). A total of 11 patients (18%) experienced a-GVHD. The incidence of a-GVHD 
grades I-II was 13% (8/61), while the incidence of grade III-IV was 5% (3/61). Acute GVHD was 
rated as serious in 3 patients. Chronic GVHD (c-GVHD) was reported if serious or the cause of death, 
and was reported as the cause of death in 3 patients. 



 

 8

 
Infections and infestations:  
39% of patients (40/103) experienced one or more episodes of infection, of which 83% (33/40) were 
rated as mild or moderate. Pneumonia was fatal in 1% (1/103) and life-threatening in 3% of patients. 
Other infections were considered severe in 3% of patients. Fever was reported in 87% of patients and 
graded as mild/moderate in 84% and severe in 3%. 47% of patients experienced chills which were 
mild/moderate in 46% and severe in 1%. 
 
Hepato-biliary disorders: 
15% of SAEs involved liver toxicity. HVOD is a recognized potential complication of conditioning 
therapy post-transplant. Six of 103 patients (6%) experienced HVOD. HVOD occurred in: 8.2% (5/61) 
allogeneic patients (fatal in 2 patients) and 2.5% (1/42) of autologous patients. Elevated bilirubin 
(n=3) and elevated AST (n=1) were also observed. Two of the above four patients with serious serum 
hepatotoxicity were among patients with diagnosed HVOD. 
 
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: 
One patient experienced a fatal case of acute respiratory distress syndrome with subsequent respiratory 
failure associated with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis in the Busilvex studies. 
 
Paediatric population 
Adverse events information are derived from the clinical study in paediatrics (n=55). Serious toxicities 
involving the hepatic and respiratory systems were considered as expected consequences of the 
conditioning regimen and transplant process. 
 
Immune system disorders: 
The incidence of acute graft versus host disease (a-GVHD) data was collected in allogeneic patients 
(n=28). A total of 14 patients (50%) experienced a-GVHD. The incidence of a-GVHD grades I-II was 
46.4% (13/28), while the incidence of grade III-IV was 3.6% (1/28). Chronic GVHD was reported 
only if it is the cause of death: one patient died 13 months post-transplant. 
 
Infections and infestations:  
Infections (documented and non documented febrile neutropenia) were experienced in 89% of patients 
(49/55). Mild/moderate fever was reported in 76% of patients. 
 
Hepato-biliary disorders : 
Grade 3 elevated transaminases were reported in 24% of patients. 
Veno occlusive disease (VOD) was reported in 15% (4/27) and 7% (2/28) of the autologous and 
allogenic transplant respectively. VOD observed were neither fatal nor severe and resolved in all 
cases. 
 
Busilvex in combination with fludarabine (FB)  
In adults 
The safety profile of Busilvex combined with fludarabine (FB) has been examined through a review of 
adverse events reported in published data from clinical trials in RIC regimen. In these studies, a total 
of 1574 patients received FB as a reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimen prior to 
haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation.  
 
Myelo-suppression and immuno-suppression were the desired therapeutic effects of the conditioning 
regimen and consequently were not considered undesirable effects. 
 
Infections and infestations:  
The occurrence of infectious episodes or reactivation of opportunistic infectious agents mainly reflects 
the immune status of the patient receiving a conditioning regimen.  
The most frequent infectious adverse reactions were Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation [range: 
30.7% - 80.0%], Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) reactivation [range: 2.3% - 61%], bacterial infections 
[range: 32.0% - 38.9%] and viral infections [range: 1.3% - 17.2%]. 



 

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Gastrointestinal disorders: 
The highest frequency of nausea and vomiting was 59.1% and  the highest frequency of stomatitis was 
11%. 
 
Renal and urinary disorders: 
It has been suggested that conditioning regimens containing fludarabine were associated with higher 
incidence of opportunistic infections after transplantation because of the immunosuppressive effect of 
fludarabine. Late haemorrhagic cystitis occurring 2 weeks post-transplant are likely related to viral 
infection / reactivation. Haemorrhagic cystitis including haemorrhagic cystitis induced by viral 
infection was reported in a range between 16% and 18.1%.  
 
Hepato-biliary disorders: 
VOD was reported with a range between 3.9% and 15.4%. 
 
The treatment-related mortality/non-relapse mortality (TRM/NRM) reported until day+100 post-
transplant has also been examined through a review of published data from clinical trials. It was 
considered as deaths that could be attributable to secondary side effects after HPCT and not related to 
the relapse/progression of the underlying haematological malignancies.  
The most frequent causes of reported TRM/NRMs were infection/sepsis, GVHD, pulmonary disorders 
and organ failure. 
 
Tabulated summaries of adverse reactions 
Frequencies are defined as: very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100, < 1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1,000, 
< 1/100) or not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). Undesirable effects coming from 
post-marketing survey have been implemented in the tables with the incidence “not known”. 
 
Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide or melphalan  
Adverse reactions reported both in adults and paediatric patients as more than an isolated case are 
listed below, by system organ class and by frequency. Within each frequency grouping, adverse events 
are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.  
 
System organ class Very common Common Uncommon Not known 
Infections and 
infestations 

Rhinitis 
Pharyngitis 

   

Blood and 
lymphatic system 
disorders 

Neutropenia 
Thrombocytopenia 
Febrile neutropenia 
Anaemia 
Pancytopenia 

   

Immune system 
disorders 

Allergic reaction    

Endocrine 
disorders 

   Hypogonadism 
** 

Metabolism and 
nutrition  
disorders 

Anorexia 
Hyperglycaemia 
Hypocalcaemia 
Hypokalaemia 
Hypomagnesaemia 
Hypophosphatemia 

Hyponatraemia   

Psychiatric 
disorders 

Anxiety  
Depression  
Insomnia 

Confusion Delirium 
Nervousness 
Hallucination 
Agitation  

 



 

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Nervous system 
disorders 
 

Headache 
Dizziness 

 Seizure 
Encephalopathy 
Cerebral 
haemorrhage 

 

Eye disorders    Cataract 
Corneal 
thinning  
Lens disorders 
*** 

Cardiac disorders Tachycardia 
 

Arrhythmia 
Atrial fibrillation 
Cardiomegaly 
Pericardial 
effusion 
Pericarditis 

Ventricular 
extrasystoles 
Bradycardia 
 

 

Vascular disorders Hypertension 
Hypotension 
Thrombosis 
Vasodilatation 

 Femoral artery  
thrombosis 
Capillary leak 
syndrome 

 

Respiratory 
thoracic and 
mediastinal 
disorders 

Dyspnoea  
Epistaxis 
Cough 
Hiccup 
 
 

Hyperventilation 
Respiratory failure 
Alveolar 
haemorrhages 
Asthma 
Atelectasis 
Pleural effusion 

Hypoxia Interstitial lung 
disease** 

Gastrointestinal 
disorders 

Stomatitis  
Diarrhoea  
Abdominal pain 
Nausea  
Vomiting 
Dyspepsia  
Ascites 
Constipation 
Anus discomfort 

Haematemesis  
Ileus  
Oesophagitis 
 
 

Gastrointestinal 
haemorrhage 

Tooth 
hypoplasia** 

Hepato-biliary 
disorders 

Hepatomegaly 
Jaundice 

Veno occlusive 
liver disease * 

  

Skin and 
subcutaneous 
tissue 
disorders 

Rash 
Pruritis 
Alopecia 
 

Skin desquamation 
Erythema 
Pigmentation 
disorder 

  

Musculoskeletal 
and connective 
tissue disorders 

Myalgia  
Back pain 
Arthralgia 

   

Renal and urinary 
disorders 

Dysuria 
Oligurea 

Haematuria 
Moderate renal 
Insufficiency 

  

Reproductive 
system and breast 
disorders 

   Premature 
menopause 
Ovarian 
failure** 



 

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General disorders 
and 
administration site 
conditions 
 
 

Asthenia  
Chills 
Fever  
Chest pain 
Oedema  
Oedema general 
Pain 
Pain or inflammation 
at injection site 
Mucositis 

   

Investigations Transaminases 
increased 
Bilirubin increased 
GGT increased 
Alkaline phosphatases 
increased 
Weight increased 
Abnormal breath 
sounds 
Creatinine elevated 

Bun increase 
Decrease ejection 
fraction 
 

  

* veno occlusive liver disease is more frequent in paediatric population.  
** reported in post marketing with IV busulfan  
*** reported in post marketing with oral busulfan 
 
 
Busilvex in combination with fludarabine (FB) 
The incidence of each adverse reactions presented in the following table has been defined according to 
the highest incidence observed in published clinical trials in RIC regimen for which the population 
treated with FB was clearly identified, whatever the schedules of busulfan administrations and 
endpoints. Adverse reactions reported as more than an isolated case are listed below, by system organ 
class and by frequency.   
 
System organ class Very common Common 

 
Not known*  

Infections and 
infestations 
 
 
 

Viral infection  
CMV reactivation 
EBV reactivation 
Bacterial infection 
 

Invasive fungal 
infection  
Pulmonary infection 

Brain abscess 
Cellulitis 
Sepsis 

Blood and lymphatic 
system disorders 

  Febrile neutropenia 

Metabolism and 
nutrition disorders 

Hypoalbuminaemia 
Electrolyte disturbance 
Hyperglycaemia 

 Anorexia 
 

Psychiatric disorders   Agitation 
Confusional state 
Hallucination 

Nervous system 
disorders 

 Headache 
Nervous system 
disorders [Not 
Elsewhere 
Classified] 
 

Cerebral 
haemorrhage 
Encephalo-pathy 
 

Cardiac disorders   Atrial fibrillation 
 



 

 12

Vascular disorders  Hyper-tension  

Respiratory thoracic 
and mediastinal 
disorders 

 Pulmonary 
haemorrhage 
 

Respiratory failure 
 

Gastro-intestinal 
disorders 

Nausea 
Vomiting 
Diarrhoea 
Stomatitis 
 

 Gastro-intestinal 
haemorrhage 
Tooth hypoplasia* 

Hepato-biliary 
disorders 

Veno occlusive liver disease   Jaundice 
Liver disorders 

Skin and subcutaneous 
tissue disorders 

 Rash  

Renal and urinary 
disorders 

Haemorrhagic cystitis** 
 

Renal disorder 
 

Oliguria 

General disorders and 
administration site 
conditions 

 
Mucositis 
 

 Asthenia 
Oedema 
Pain 

Investigations Transaminases increased 
Bilirubine increased 
Alkaline phosphatases increased 
 

Creatinine elevated 
 

Blood lactate 
dehydrogenase 
increased 
Blood uric acid 
increased  
Blood urea 
increased 
GGT increased 
Weight increased 

* reported in post marketing experience 
** include haemorrhagic cystitis induced by viral infection 
 
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 
 
The principal toxic effect is profound myeloablation and pancytopenia but the central nervous system, 
liver, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract may also be affected.  
 
There is no known antidote to Busilvex other than haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation. In 
the absence of haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation, the recommended dose of Busilvex 
would constitute an overdose of busulfan. The haematologic status should be closely monitored and 
vigorous supportive measures instituted as medically indicated. 
There have been two reports that busulfan is dialyzable, thus dialysis should be considered in the case 
of an overdose. Since, busulfan is metabolized through conjugation with glutathione, administration of 
glutathione might be considered. 
 
It must be considered that overdose of Busilvex will also increase exposure to DMA. In human the 
principal toxic effects were hepatotoxicity and central nervous system (CNS) effects. CNS changes 
precede any of the more severe side effects. No specific antidote for DMA overdose is known. In case 
of overdose, management would include general supportive care. 
 
 



 

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5 PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 
5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 
 
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Alkyl sulfonates, ATC code: L01AB01. 
 
Mechanism of action 
Busulfan is a potent cytotoxic agent and a bifunctional alkylating agent. In aqueous media, release of 
the methanesulphonate groups produces carbonium ions which can alkylate DNA, thought to be an 
important biological mechanism for its cytotoxic effect. 
 
Clinical efficacy and safety 
Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide 
In adults 
Documentation on the safety and efficacy of Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide in the 
BuCy2 regimen prior to conventional allogeneic and/or autologous HPCT derives from two clinical 
trials (OMC-BUS-4 and OMC-BUS-3). 
 
Two prospective, single arm, open-label, uncontrolled phase II studies were conducted in patients with 
haematological disease, the majority of whom had advanced disease. 
 
Diseases included were acute leukaemia past first remission, in first or subsequent relapse, in first 
remission (high risk), or induction failures; chronic melogenous leukaemia in chronic or advanced 
phase; primary refractory or resistant relapsed Hodgkin’s disease or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and 
myelodysplastic syndrome. 
 
Patients received doses of 0.8 mg/kg busulfan every 6 hours infusion for a total 16 doses followed by 
cyclophosphamide at 60 mg/kg once per day for two days (BuCy2 regimen). 
The primary efficacy parameters in these studies were myeloablation, engraftment, relapse, and 
survival. 
In both studies, all patients received a 16/16 dose regimen of Busilvex. No patients were discontinued 
from treatment due to adverse reactions related to Busilvex.  
 
All patients experienced a profound myelosuppression. The time to Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) 
greater than 0.5x109 /l was 13 days (range 9-29 days) in allogenic patients (OMC-BUS 4), and 10 days 
(range 8-19 days) in autologous patients (OMC-BUS 3). All evaluable patients engrafted. There is no 
primary or secondary graft rejection. Overall mortality and non- relapse mortality at more than 100 
days post-transplant was (8/61) 13% and (6/61) 10% in allotransplanted patients, respectively. During 
the same period there was no death in autologous recipients. 
 
Paediatric population 
Documentation of the safety and efficacy of Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide in the 
BuCy4 or with melphalan in the BuMel regimen prior to conventional allogeneic and/or autologous 
HPCT derives from clinical trial F60002 IN 101 G0. 
The patients received the dosing mentioned in section 4.2. 
All patients experienced a profound myelosuppression. The time to Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) 
greater than 0.5x109/l was 21 days (range 12-47 days) in allogenic patients, and 11 days (range 10-15 
days) in autologous patients. All children engrafted. There is no primary or secondary graft rejection. 
93% of allogeneic patients showed complete chimerism. There was no regimen-related death through 
the first 100-day post-transplant and up to one year post-transplant. 
 
Busilvex in combination with fludarabine (FB)  
In adults 
Documentation on the safety and efficacy of Busilvex in combination with fludarabine (FB) prior to 
allogeneic HPCT derives from the literature review of 7 published studies involving 731 patients with 



 

 14

myeloid and lymphoid malignancies reporting the use of intravenous busulfan infused once daily 
instead of four doses per day.  
 
Patients received a conditioning regimen based on the administration of fludarabine immediately 
followed by single daily dose of 3.2 mg/kg busulfan over 2 or 3 consecutive days. Total dose of 
busulfan per patient was between 6.4 mg/kg and 9.6 mg/kg. 
The FB combination allowed sufficient myeloablation modulated by the intensity of conditioning 
regimen through the variation of number of days of busulfan infusion. Fast and complete engraftment 
rates in 80-100% of patients were reported in the majority of studies. A majority of publications 
reported a complete donor chimerism at day+30 for 90-100% of patients. The long-term outcomes 
confirmed that the efficacy was maintained without unexpected effects.  
 
Data from a recently completed prospective multicentre phase 2 study including 80 patients, aged 18 
to 65 years old, diagnosed with different hematologic malignancies who underwent allo-HCT with  an 
FB (3 days of Busilvex) reduced intensity conditioning regimen became available. In this study, all, 
but one, patients engrafted, at a median of 15 (range, 10-23) days after allo-HCT. The cumulative 
incidence of neutrophil recovery at day 28 was 98.8% (95%CI, 85.7-99.9%). Platelet engraftment 
occurred at a median of 9 (range, 1-16) days after allo-HCT.  
The 2-year OS rate was 61.9% (95%CI, 51.1-72.7%)]. At 2 years, the cumulative incidence of NRM 
was 11.3% (95%CI, 5.5-19.3%), and that of relapse or progression from allo-HCT was 43.8% (95CI, 
31.1-55.7%). The Kaplan-Meier estimate of DFS at 2 years was 49.9% (95%CI, 32.6-72.7). 

 
5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 
 
The pharmacokinetics of Busilvex has been investigated. The information presented on 
biotransformation and elimination is based on oral busulfan. 
 
Pharmacokinetics in adults 
Absorption 
The pharmacokinetics of intravenous busulfan was studied in 124 evaluable patients following a 2-
hour intravenous infusion for a total of 16 doses over four days. Immediate and complete availability 
of the dose is obtained after intravenous infusion of busulfan. Similar blood exposure was observed 
when comparing plasma concentrations in adult patients receiving oral and intravenous busulfan at 
1 mg/kg and 0.8 mg/kg respectively. Low inter (CV=21%) and intra (CV=12%) patient variability on 
busulfan exposure was demonstrated through a population pharmacokinetic analysis, performed on 
102 patients.  
 
Distribution 
Terminal volume of distribution Vz ranged between 0.62 and 0.85 l/kg. 
Busulfan concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid are comparable to those in plasma although these 
concentrations are probably insufficient for anti-neoplastic activity. 
Reversible binding to plasma proteins was around 7% while irreversible binding, primarily to albumin, 
was about 32%. 
 
Biotransformation 
Busulfan is metabolised mainly through conjugation with glutathione (spontaneous and glutathione-S-
transferase mediated). The glutathione conjugate is then further metabolised in the liver by oxidation. 
None of the metabolites is thought to contribute significantly to either efficacy or toxicity. 
 
Elimination 
Total clearance in plasma ranged 2.25 - 2.74 ml/minute/kg. The terminal half-life ranged from 2.8 to 
3.9 hours. 
Approximately 30% of the administered dose is excreted into the urine over 48 hours with 1% as 
unchanged busulfan. Elimination in faeces is negligible. Irreversible protein binding may explain the 
incomplete recovery. Contribution of long-lasting metabolites is not excluded. 
 



 

 15

Linearity   
The dose proportional increase of busulfan exposure was demonstrated following intravenous busulfan 
up to 1 mg/kg. 
 
Compared to the four times a day regimen, the once-daily regimen is characterized by a higher peak 
concentration, no drug accumulation and a wash out period (without circulating busulfan 
concentration) between consecutive administrations. The review of the literature allows a comparison 
of PK series performed either within the same study or between studies and demonstrated unchanged 
dose-independent PK parameters regardless the dosage or the schedule of administration. It seems  that 
the recommended intravenous busulfan dose administered either as an individual infusion (3.2 mg/kg) 
or into 4 divided infusions (0.8 mg/kg) provided equivalent daily plasma exposure with similar both 
inter-and intrapatient variability. As a result, the control of intravenous busulfan AUC within the 
therapeutic windows is not modified and a similar targeting performance between the two schedules 
was illustrated. 
 
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships 
The literature on busulfan suggests a therapeutic AUC window between 900 and 1500 µmol/L.minute 
per administration (equivalent to a daily exposure between 3600 and 6000 µmol/L.minute). During 
clinical trials with intravenous busulfan administered as 0.80 mg/kg four-times daily, 90% of patients 
AUCs were below the upper AUC limit (1500 µmol/L.minute) and at least 80% were within the 
targeted therapeutic window (900-1500 µmol/L.minute). Similar targeting rate is achieved within the 
daily exposure of 3600 - 6000 µmol/L.minute following the administration of intravenous busulfan 3.2 
mg/kg once daily. 
 
Special populations 
Hepatic or renal impairment 
The effects of renal dysfunction on intravenous busulfan disposition have not been assessed. 
The effects of hepatic dysfunction on intravenous busulfan disposition have not been assessed. 
Nevertheless the risk of liver toxicity may be increased in this population. 
No age effect on busulfan clearance was evidenced from available intravenous busulfan data in 
patients over 60 years. 
 
Paediatric population  
A continuous variation of clearance ranging from 2.49 to 3.92 ml/minute/kg has been established in 
children from < 6 months up to 17 years old. The terminal half life ranged from 2.26 to 2.52 h. 
 Inter and intra patient variabilities in plasma exposure were lower than 20% and 10%, respectively. 
A population pharmacokinetic analysis has been performed in a cohort of 205 children adequately 
distributed with respect to bodyweight (3.5 to 62.5 kg), biological and diseases (malignant and non-
malignant) characteristics, thus representative of the high heterogeneity of children undergoing HPCT. 
This study demonstrated that bodyweight was the predominant covariate to explain the busulfan 
pharmacokinetic variability in children over body surface area or age.  
The recommended posology for children as detailed in section 4.2 enabled over 70% up to 90% of 
children ≥ 9 kg in achieving the therapeutic window (900-1500 µmol/L.minute). However a higher 
variability was observed in children < 9 kg leading to 60% of children achieving the therapeutic 
window (900-1500 µmol/L.minute). For the 40% of children < 9 kg outside the target, the AUC was 
evenly distributed either below or above the targeted limits; i.e. 20% each < 900 and > 1500 
µmol/L.min following 1 mg/kg. In this regard, for children < 9 kg, a monitoring of the plasma 
concentrations of busulfan (therapeutic drug monitoring) for dose-adjustment may improve the 
busulfan targeting performance, especially in extremely young children and neonates.  
 
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships: 
The successful engraftment achieved in all patients during phase II trials suggests the appropriateness 
of the targeted AUCs. Occurrence of VOD was not related to overexposure. PK/PD relationship was 
observed between stomatitis and AUCs in autologous patients and between bilirubin increase and 
AUCs in a combined autologous and allogeneic patient analysis. 



 

 16

 
5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 
Busulfan is mutagenic and clastogenic. Busulfan was mutagenic in Salmonella typhimurium, 
Drosophila melanogaster and barley. Busulfan induced chromosomal aberrations in vitro (rodent and 
human cell) and in vivo (rodents and humans). Various chromosome aberrations have been observed in 
cells from patients receiving oral busulfan. 
 
Busulfan belongs to a class of substances which are potentially carcinogenic based on their mechanism 
of action. On the basis of human data, busulfan has been classified by the IARC as a human 
carcinogen. WHO has concluded that there is a causal relationship between busulfan exposure and 
cancer. The available data in animals support the carcinogenic potential of busulfan. Intravenous 
administration of busulfan to mice significantly increased the incidences of thymic and ovarian 
tumours. 
 
Busulfan is a teratogen in rats, mice and rabbits. Malformations and anomalies included significant 
alterations in the musculoskeletal system, body weight gain, and size. In pregnant rats, busulfan 
produced sterility in both male and female offspring due to the absence of germinal cells in testes and 
ovaries. Busulfan was shown to cause sterility in rodents. Busulfan depleted oocytes of female rats, 
and induced sterility in male rats and hamster. 
 
Repeated doses of DMA produced signs of liver toxicity, the first being increases in serum clinical 
enzymes followed by histopatological changes in the hepatocytes. Higher doses can produce hepatic 
necrosis and liver damage can be seen following single high exposures. 
 
DMA is teratogenic in rats. Doses of 400 mg/kg/day DMA administered during organogenesis caused 
significant developmental anomalies. The malformations included serious heart and/or major vessels 
anomalies: a common truncus arteriosis and no ductus arteriosis, coarctation of the pulmonary trunk 
and the pulmonary arteries, intraventricular defects of the heart. Other frequent anomalies included 
cleft palate, anasarca and skeletal anomalies of the vertebrae and ribs. DMA decreases fertility in male 
and female rodents. A single s.c. dose of 2.2 g/kg administered on gestation day 4 terminated 
pregnancy in 100% of tested hamster. In rats, a DMA daily dose of 450 mg/kg given to rats for nine 
days caused inactive spermatogenesis. 
 
 
6 PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 
 
6.1 List of excipients 
 
Dimethylacetamide 
Macrogol 400. 
 
6.2 Incompatibilities 
 
In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal 
products except those mentioned in section 6.6. 
 
Do not use polycarbonate syringes with Busilvex. 
 
6.3 Shelf life 
 
Vials: 3 years 
 
Diluted solution: 
Chemical and physical in-use stability after dilution in glucose 5% or sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) 
solution for injection has been demonstrated for: 
 



 

 17

- 8 hours (including infusion time) after dilution when stored at 20 °C  5 °C  
  
-  12 hours after dilution when stored at 2 °C-8 °C followed by 3 hours stored at 20 °C  5 °C 

(including infusion time). 
 
From a microbiological point of view, the product should be used immediately after dilution. If not 
used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions prior to use are the responsibility of the user 
and would normally not be longer than the above mentioned conditions when dilution has taken place 
in controlled and validated aseptic conditions. 
 
6.4 Special precautions for storage 
 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). 
Do not freeze the diluted solution. 
For storage conditions after dilution of the medicinal product see section 6.3. 
 
6.5 Nature and contents of container 
 
10 ml of concentrate for solution for infusion in clear glass vials (type I) with a butyl rubber stopper 
covered by a purple flip-off aluminium seal cap. 
Multipack containing 8 (2 packs of 4) vials. 
 
6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling 
 
Preparation of Busilvex 
Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer medicinal products should be considered. 
 
All transfer procedures require strict adherence to aseptic techniques, preferably employing a vertical 
laminar flow safety hood  
 
As with other cytotoxic compounds, caution should be exercised in handling and preparing the 
Busilvex solution: 
- The use of gloves and protective clothing is recommended.  
- If Busilvex or diluted Busilvex solution contacts the skin or mucosa, wash them thoroughly with 

water immediately. 
 
Calculation of the quantity of Busilvex to be diluted and of the diluent 
 
Busilvex must be diluted prior to use with either sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for 
injection or glucose solution for injection 5%. 
The quantity of the diluent must be 10 times the volume of Busilvex ensuring the final concentration 
of busulfan remains at approximately 0.5 mg/ml. By example: 
 
The amount of Busilvex and diluent to be administered would be calculated as follows: 
for a patient with a Y kg body weight: 
 

 Quantity of Busilvex: 
 
Y (kg) x D (mg/kg)  

= A ml of Busilvex to be diluted 
6 (mg/ml) 
 
Y: body weight of the patient in kg 
D: dose of Busilvex (see section 4.2) 



 

 18

 
 Quantity of diluent: 

 
(A ml Busilvex) x (10) = B ml of diluent 
 
To prepare the final solution for infusion, add (A) ml of Busilvex to (B) ml of diluent (sodium chloride 
9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose solution for injection 5%) 
 
Preparation of the solution for infusion 
 
 Busilvex must be prepared by a healthcare professional using sterile transfer techniques. Using a 

non polycarbonate syringe fitted with a needle: 
 

- the calculated volume of Busilvex must be removed from the vial. 
 

- the contents of the syringe must be dispensed into an intravenous bag (or syringe) which 
already contains the calculated amount of the selected diluent. Busilvex must always be added 
to the diluent, not the diluent to Busilvex. Busilvex must not be put into an intravenous bag 
that does not contain sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose 
solution for injection 5%. 

 
 The diluted solution must be mixed thoroughly by inverting several times. 

 
After dilution, 1 ml of solution for infusion contains 0.5 mg of busulfan. 

 
Diluted Busilvex is a clear colourless solution. 
 
Instructions for use 
Prior to and following each infusion, flush the indwelling catheter line with approximately 5 ml of 
sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose (5%) solution for injection. 
 
The residual medicinal product must not be flushed in the administration tubing as rapid infusion of 
Busilvex has not been tested and is not recommended. 
 
The entire prescribed Busilvex dose should be delivered over two or three hours depending of the 
conditioning regimen. 
 
Small volumes may be administered over 2 hours using electric syringes. In this case infusion sets 
with minimal priming space should be used (i.e. 0.3-0.6 ml), primed with medicinal product solution 
prior to beginning the actual Busilvex infusion and then flushed with sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) 
solution for injection or glucose (5%) solution for injection. 
 
Busilvex must not be infused concomitantly with another intravenous solution. 
 
Polycarbonate syringes must not be used with Busilvex. 
 
For single use only. Only a clear solution without any particles should be used. 
 
Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local 
requirements for cytotoxic medicinal products. 



 

 19

 
 
7 MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Pierre Fabre Médicament 
45, Place Abel Gance 
F-92654 Boulogne Billancourt Cedex 
France 
 
8 MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S)  
 
EU/1/03/254/002 
 
9 DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 
Date of first authorisation: 09 July, 2003 
Date of latest renewal: 08 July, 2008 
 
10 DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 
 
MM/YYYY 
 
Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of European 
Medicinal Agency http://www.ema/europa.eu 



 

 20

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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 

 



 

 21

A MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 
 

Name and address of the manufacturer responsible for batch release 
 
Pierre Fabre Médicament Production 
Site Aquitaine Pharm International 
Avenue du Béarn -Idron 
F-64320  
France 

 
 
B CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE  
 

Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (See Annex I: Summary of Product 
Characteristics, 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) 
 

Not applicable 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



 

 22

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

ANNEX III 
 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 
 
 



 

 23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A. LABELLING 
 



 

 24

 
PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING WITH BLUE BOX 
  
 
{Box containing 8 vials of 10ml} 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Busilvex 6 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion 
busulfan 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE 
 
One ml of concentrate contains 6 mg of busulfan and provides 0.5 mg/ml of busulfan after dilution  
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Each vial contains Dimethylacetamide and Macrogol 400 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Concentrate for solution for infusion 
Multipack: 8 (2 packs of 4) vials of 10 ml 
60 mg per vial 
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Intravenous use (IV) 
Must be diluted before use 
Read the package leaflet before 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 IF NECESSARY 
 
Cytotoxic: handle with caution.   
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP: 
Read the leaflet for the shelf life of diluted medicine 



 

 25

 
9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS
 
Store in a refrigerator (2C – 8C) 
 
 
 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local 
requirements 
 
 
11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Pierre Fabre Médicament 
45, place Abel Gance 
F-92654 Boulogne Billancourt cedex 
France 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/03/254/002 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription. 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Justification for not including Braille accepted. 
 
 
17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 
 
2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 



 

 26

 
 
18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – HUMAN READABLE DATA 
 
PC: {number}   
SN: {number}   
NN: {number}   
 



 

 27

 
PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE INTERMEDIATE PACKAGING WITHOUT BLUE 
BOX 
 
{ box containing 4 vials of 10ml} 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Busilvex 6 mg/ml  
busulfan 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
60 mg 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Concentrate 
4 vials of 10ml. Component of a multipack, cannot be sold separately. 
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Intravenous use (IV) 
Must be diluted before use 
Read the package leaflet before use 
 
 
6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 
 
 
7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP 
 
 
9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS
 
Store in a refrigerator (2C – 8C) 



 

 28

 
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 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/03/254/002 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Justification for not including Braille accepted. 
 



 

 29

 
MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 
 
{10ml type I glass vial} 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Busilvex 6 mg/ml sterile concentrate  
IV 
 
 
2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot 
 
 
5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 
 
60 mg/10 ml 
 
 
6. OTHER 



 

 30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 

 



 

 31

Package leaflet: Information for the user 
 

Busilvex 6 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion. 
busulfan. 

 
 
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. 
- If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor. This includes any possible side effects not listed 

in this leaflet. 
 
What is in this leaflet:  
1. What Busilvex is and what it is used for 
2. What you need to know before you use Busilvex 
3. How to use Busilvex 
4. Possible side effects 
5 How to store Busilvex 
6. Contents of the pack and other information 
 
 
1. What Busilvex is and what it is used for 
 
Busilvex contains the active substance busulfan, which belongs to a group of medicines called 
alkylating agents. Busilvex destroys the original bone marrow before the transplant. 
 
Busilvex is used in adults, new-born infants, children and adolescents as a treatment prior to 
transplantation. 
In adults Busilvex is used in combination with cyclophosphamide or fludarabine. 
In new-born infants, children and adolescents, Busilvex is used in combination with 
cyclophosphamide or melphalan. 
You will receive this preparative medicine before receiving a transplant of either bone marrow or 
haematopoietic progenitor cell. 
 
 
2. What you need to know before you  use Busilvex 
 
Do not use Busilvex: 
 if you are allergic to busulfan or any of the other ingredients of Busilvex listed in section 6, 
 if you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. 
 
Warnings and precautions 
Busilvex is a potent cytotoxic medicine that results in profound decrease of blood cells. At the 
recommended dose, this is the desired effect. Therefore careful monitoring will be performed. 
It is possible that use of Busilvex may increase the risk of suffering another malignancy in the future. 
You should tell your doctor: 
 if you have a liver, kidney, heart or lung problem, 
 if you have a history of seizures, 
 if you are currently taking other medicines. 
Cases of formation of blood clots in the small blood vessels may appear after hematopoietic cell 
transplantation (HCT) with high-dose of your treatment in combination with other medicines. 
 
Other medicines and Busilvex 
Tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including 
medicines obtained without a prescription. Busilvex may interact with other medicines. 



 

 32

 
Particular caution should be taken if you use itraconazole and metronidazole (used for certain types of 
infections) or ketobemidone (used to treat pain), because this may increase the side-effects. 
 
The use of paracetamol during the 72 hours prior to or with Busilvex administration should be used 
with caution. 
 
Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility 
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask 
your doctor before you receive treatment with Busilvex. Women must not be pregnant during 
treatment with Busilvex and up to 6 months after treatment.  
Women must stop breast-feeding before starting their treatment with Busilvex. 
 
Adequate contraceptive precautions should be used when either partner is receiving Busilvex. 
 
It may no longer be possible for you to achieve a pregnancy (infertility) after treatment with busulfan.  
If you are concerned about having children, you should discuss this with your doctor before treatment. 
Busilvex can also produce symptoms of menopause and in pre-adolescent girls it can prevent the onset 
of puberty.  
 
Men treated with Busilvex are advised not to father child during and up to 6 months after treatment.  
 
 
3. How to use Busilvex 
 
Dose and administration: 
The dose of Busilvex will be calculated according to your body weight. 
 
In adults: 
Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide: 
 The recommended dose of Busilvex is 0.8 mg/kg 
 Each infusion will last 2 hours 
 Busilvex will be administered every 6 hours during 4 consecutive days prior to transplant. 
 
Busilvex in combination with fludarabine 
 The recommended dose of Busilvex is 3.2 mg/kg 
 Each infusion will last 3 hours 
 Busilvex will be administered once daily during 2 or 3 consecutive days prior to transplant. 
 
In new-born infants, children and adolescents (0 to 17 years): 
The recommended dose of Busilvex in combination with cyclophosphamide or melphalan is based on 
your body weight varying between 0.8 and 1.2 mg/kg. 
 Each infusion will last 2 hours 
 Busilvex will be administered every 6 hours during 4 consecutive days prior to transplant. 
 
Medicines before you receive Busilvex: 
Before receiving Busilvex, you will be medicated with 
 anticonvulsive medicines to prevent seizures (phenytoin or benzodiazepines) and 
 antiemetic medicines to prevent vomiting. 
 



 

 33

 
4. Possible side effects  
 
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 
 
Serious side effects: 
The most serious side effects of Busilvex therapy or the transplant procedure may include decrease in 
circulating blood cell counts (intended effect of the medicine to prepare you for your transplant 
infusion), infection, liver disorders including blocking of a liver vein, graft versus host disease (the 
graft attacks your body) and pulmonary complications. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts 
and liver enzymes regularly to detect and manage these events. 
 
Other side effects may include:  
Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): 
Blood: decrease of blood circulating cells (red and white) and platelets. Infections. Nervous system: 
insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, and depression. Nutrition: loss of appetite, decrease in magnesium, 
calcium, potassium, phosphate, albumine in blood, and increase in blood sugar. Cardiac: increase in 
heart rate, increase or decrease of blood pressure, vasodilatation (a state of increased calibre of the 
blood vessels), and blood clots. Respiratory: shortness of breath, nasal secretion (rhinitis), sore throat, 
cough, hiccup, nosebleeds, abnormal breath sounds. Gastro-intestinal: nausea, inflammation of the 
mucosa of the mouth, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, heart burn, anus discomfort, 
liquid in the abdomen. Hepatic: enlarged liver, jaundice, blocking of a liver vein. Skin: rash, itching, 
loss of hairs. Muscle and bone: back, muscle and joint pain. Renal: increase in creatinine elimination, 
discomfort in urination, decrease in urine output and bloody urine. General: fever, headache, 
weakness, chills, pain, allergic reaction, oedema, general pain or inflammation at injection site, chest 
pain, inflammation of the mucosa. Investigations: elevated liver enzymes and weight increased. 
 
Common   (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):  
Nervous system: confusion, nervous system disorders. Nutrition: low blood sodium. Cardiac: 
changes and abnormalities in heart rhythm, fluid retention or inflammation around the heart, decrease 
heart output. Respiratory: increase in breath rhythm, respiratory failure, alveolar haemorrhages, 
asthma, collapse of small portions of the lung, fluid around the lung. Gastro-intestinal: inflammation 
of the mucosa of oesophagus, paralysis of the gut, vomiting blood. Skin: Skin colour disorder, redness 
of the skin, skin desquamation. Renal: increase in the amount of nitrogen components in the blood 
stream, moderate renal insufficiency, renal disorder. 
 
Uncommon   (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): 
Nervous system: delirium, nervousness, hallucination, agitation, abnormal brain function, cerebral 
haemorrhage, and seizure. Cardiac: clotting of femoral artery, extra heart beats, decrease in heart rate, 
diffuse leak of fluid from the capillaries (small blood vessels). Respiratory: decrease in blood 
oxygen. Gastro-intestinal: bleeding in the stomach and/or the gut. 
 
Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data) 
Sex glands dysfunction. 
Lens disorders including clouding of the lens of the eye (cataract), and blurred vision (corneal 
thinning). 
Menopausal symptoms and female infertility. 
Brain abscess, Inflammation of the skin, generalised infection. 
Liver disorders. 
Increase of lactate dehydrogenase in the blood. 
Increase of uric acid and urea in the blood. 
Incomplete development of teeth. 



 

 34

 
Reporting of side effects 
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor. 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 Busilvex 
 
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 label and the carton after 
EXP. 
 
Unopened vials: 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). 
 
Diluted solution: 
Chemical and physical in-use stability after dilution in glucose 5% or sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) 
solution for injection has been demonstrated for 8 hours (including infusion time) after dilution when 
stored at 20 °C  5 °C or 12 hours after dilution when stored at 2 °C-8 °C followed by 3 hours stored 
at 20 °C  5 °C (including infusion time). 
Do not freeze. 
 
Do not throw away any medicine via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
throw away medicine you no longer use. These measures will help protect environment. 
 
 
6. Contents of the pack and other information 
 
What Busilvex contains 
 The active substance is busulfan. One ml of concentrate contains 6 mg busulfan (60 mg in the 

vial). After dilution: one ml of solution contains approximately 0.5 mg of busulfan. 
 The other ingredients are dimethylacetamide and macrogol 400. 
 
 
What Busilvex looks like and contents of the pack 
Busilvex consists of a concentrate for solution for infusion and is supplied in colourless glass vials, 
each vial containing 60 mg of busulfan.  
Busilvex is available in multipacks comprising 2 packs, each containing 4 vials. 
When diluted Busilvex is a clear colourless solution. 
 
 
Marketing Authorisation Holder 
Pierre Fabre Médicament 
45, place Abel Gance 
F-92654 Boulogne-Billancourt cedex 
France 
 
Manufacturer 
Pierre Fabre Médicament Production, site Aquitaine Pharm International 
Avenue du béarn 
F-64320 Idron 
France 



 

 35

 
For any information about this medicine, please contact the Marketing Authorisation Holder 
 
This leaflet was last revised in {MM/YYYY} 
 
Other sources of information 
Detailed information on this product is available on the website of European Medicinal Agency 
http://www.ema.europa.eu 
 
 
<------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
The following information is intended for medical or healthcare professionals only 
 
PREPARATION GUIDE 
 
 
Busilvex 6 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion 
Busulfan 
 
Read this guide prior to the preparation and administration of Busilvex. 
 
 
1. PRESENTATION 
 
Busilvex is supplied as a clear colourless solution in 10 ml clear glass vials (type I). Busilvex must be 
diluted prior to administration. 
 
 
2. RECOMMENDATION FOR SAFE HANDLING 
 
Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer medicinal products should be considered. 
 
All transfer procedures require strict adherence to aseptic techniques, preferably employing a vertical 
laminar flow safety hood.  
 
As with other cytotoxic compounds, caution should be exercised in handling and preparing the 
Busilvex solution: 
- The use of gloves and protective clothing is recommended.  
- If Busilvex or diluted Busilvex solution contacts the skin or mucosa, wash them thoroughly with 

water immediately. 
 
Calculation of the quantity of Busilvex to be diluted and of the diluent 
Busilvex must be diluted prior to use with either sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for 
injection or glucose solution for injection 5%. 
The quantity of the diluent must be 10 times the volume of Busilvex ensuring the final concentration 
of busulfan remains at approximately 0.5 mg/ml. 
 
The amount of Busilvex and diluent to be administered would be calculated as follows: 
for a patient with a Y kg body weight: 
 

 Quantity of Busilvex: 
 
Y (kg) x D (mg/kg)  

= A ml of Busilvex to be diluted 
6 (mg/ml) 
 
Y: body weight of the patient in kg 



 

 36

D: dose of Busilvex (see SPC section 4.2) 
 

 Quantity of diluent: 
 
(A ml Busilvex) x (10) = B ml of diluent 
 
To prepare the final solution for infusion, add (A) ml of Busilvex to (B) ml of diluent (sodium chloride 
9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose solution for injection 5%) 
 
Preparation of the solution for infusion 
Busilvex must be prepared by a healthcare professional using sterile transfer techniques. 
 Using a non polycarbonate syringe fitted with a needle: 
 

- the calculated volume of Busilvex must be removed from the vial. 
 

- the contents of the syringe must be dispensed into an intravenous bag (or syringe) which 
already contains the calculated amount of the selected diluent. Busilvex must always be added 
to the diluent, not the diluent to Busilvex. Busilvex must not be put into an intravenous bag 
that does not contain sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose 
solution for injection 5%. 

 
 The diluted solution must be mixed thoroughly by inverting several times 
 
After dilution, 1 ml of solution for infusion contains 0.5 mg of busulfan  

 
Diluted Busilvex is a clear colourless solution 
 
Instructions for use 
Prior to and following each infusion, flush the indwelling catheter line with approximately 5 ml of 
sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for injection or glucose (5%) solution for injection. 
 
The residual medicinal product must not be flushed in the administration tubing as rapid infusion of 
Busilvex has not been tested and is not recommended. 
 
The entire prescribed Busilvex dose should be delivered over two or three hours depending on the 
conditioning regimen. 
 
Small volumes may be administered over 2 hours using electric syringes. In that case infusion sets 
with minimal priming space should be used (i.e. 0.3-0.6 ml), primed with medicinal product solution 
prior to beginning the actual Busilvex infusion and then flushed with sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) 
solution for injection or glucose (5%) solution for injection. 
 
Busilvex must not be infused concomitantly with another intravenous solution. 
 
Polycarbonate syringes must not be used with Busilvex. 
 
For single use only. Only a clear solution without particles should be used. 
 
Storage conditions 
Unopened vials: 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). 
Diluted solution: 
Chemical and physical in-use stability after dilution in glucose 5% or sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) 
solution for injection has been demonstrated for 8 hours (including infusion time) after dilution when 
stored at 20 °C  5 °C or 12 hours after dilution when stored at 2 °C-8 °C followed by 3 hours stored 
at 20 °C  5 °C (including infusion time). 



 

 37

For a microbiological point of view, the diluted solution should be used immediately. 
 
 
3. PROCEDURE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL 
 
Any unused medicinal product or waste should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements 
for cytotoxic medicinal products. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



 

 38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Annex IV 

Scientific conclusions and grounds for the variation to the terms of the marketing 
authorisation(s) 

 
 
 
 
 

 



 

 39

Scientific conclusions 

Taking into account the PRAC Assessment Report on the PSUR(s) for busulfan, the scientific 
conclusions of CHMP are as follows:  

In view of the data presented in the reviewed PSUR, the PRAC considered that changes to the 
product information of medicinal products containing busulfan were warranted. 

Seven literature reports have been published cumulatively concerning disturbance in dental 
development. In one article it was studied the role of busulfan in juvenile rats resulting in abnormal 
root development; a review of two cases of immunodeficiency disorders treated with busulfan and 
cyclophosphamide in which dental orthodontic treatment was provided; additional 2 case report of 
hypoplasia of permanent tooth germ is presented; one review assessed the long term effects of 
cytotoxic therapy concluding that tooth agenesis was more prevalent in patients treated with busulfan 
and cyclophosphamide; a study of 81 patients concluded that busulfan is as toxic as total body 
irradiation in causing disturbances in dental development; finally, a study of risk factors of tooth 
formation anomalies in paediatric cancers concluded that the high risk group of tooth agenesis was 
the subject with high dose chemotherapy under 4 years old. From the assessment of these articles, the 
causality of busulfan in the development of tooth hypoplasia is confirmed. Therefore, “tooth 
hypoplasia” should be added to the product information for both pharmaceutical forms.  

Interaction between busulfan and metronidazol has been reported in literature reviews and post 
marketing cases. It is of particular interest the study of this interaction in three groups of patients in 
which higher plasma levels of busulfan were observed in the group receiving metronidazol 
prophylaxis during busulfan treatment than in those without metronidazoles. Therefore, this 
interaction should be included in the product information for both pharmaceutical forms.  

The signal concerning interaction with deferasirox is refuted and it can be closed. This signal was 
open based on an isolated case from the literature and no additional cases have been reported. No 
pharmacokinetic explanation justifies this interaction. The signals concerning busulfan oral 
formulations and hepatic veno-oclusive disease risk in patients who have received prior radiation 
therapy /chemotherapy /HSCT, sterility, overdose treatment can be closed. These risks are assessed 
in the corresponding national procedures.  

The MAH of Busilvex has responded to the question of “Thrombotic microangiopathy” (TMA) after 
hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) requested as supplementary information. A cumulative 
review of the literature and safety database has been performed. The occurrence of TMA is 
multifactorial and busulfan IV by itself cannot be considered as a main factor in the development of 
this reaction. Mainly studies from literature have shown that high busulfan i.v. doses in combination 
with other drugs in conditioning treatment previous HCT could be an important role in the 
development of TMA. As a conclusion, busulfan could be one risk factor of development TMA and a 
warning is section 4.4 of the Busilvex SmPC is considered warranted.  

The warning for TMA after HCT only applies to one pharmaceutical form: the intravenous. Cases of 
TMA after high doses of busulfan i.v. in combination with other medicine as a conditioning 
treatment previous HCT have been seen after reviewing the literature and the cases retrieved in the 
safety database of the company. There are no cases with oral busulfan. 

The benefit risk profile of the product remains favourable in the approved indications. 

The CHMP agrees with the scientific conclusions made by the PRAC. 

 



 

 40

Grounds for the variation to the terms of the marketing authorisation(s) 

On the basis of the scientific conclusions for busulfan the CHMP is of the opinion that the benefit-
risk balance of the medicinal product(s) containing busulfan is unchanged subject to the proposed 
changes to the product information 

The CHMP recommends that the terms of the marketing authorisation(s) should be varied. 

The CHMP agrees with the scientific conclusions made by the PRAC. 

 


	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 MARKETINGAUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE ANDEFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET
	Scientific conclusions and grounds for the variation to the terms of the marketingauthorisation(s)