Lofexidine Hydrochloride

Generic Name: lofexidine hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Lucemyra

11 DESCRIPTION LUCEMYRA tablets contain lofexidine, a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, as the hydrochloride salt. Lofexidine hydrochloride is chemically designated as 2-[1-(2,6-dichlorophenoxy)ethyl]-4,5 dihydro-1 H - imidazole monohydrochloride with a molecular formula of C 11 H 12 Cl 2 N 2 O∙HCl. Its molecular weight is 295.6 g/mole and its structural formula is: Lofexidine hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline powder freely soluble in water, methanol, and ethanol.

Overview

11 DESCRIPTION LUCEMYRA tablets contain lofexidine, a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, as the hydrochloride salt. Lofexidine hydrochloride is chemically designated as 2-[1-(2,6-dichlorophenoxy)ethyl]-4,5 dihydro-1 H - imidazole monohydrochloride with a molecular formula of C 11 H 12 Cl 2 N 2 O∙HCl. Its molecular weight is 295.6 g/mole and its structural formula is: Lofexidine hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline powder freely soluble in water, methanol, and ethanol.

Uses

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE LUCEMYRA is indicated for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms to facilitate abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. LUCEMYRA is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist indicated for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms to facilitate abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. ( 1 )

Dosage

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The usual LUCEMYRA dosage is three 0.18 mg tablets taken orally 4 times daily at 5- to 6-hour intervals. LUCEMYRA treatment may be continued for up to 14 days with dosing guided by symptoms. ( 2.1 ) Discontinue LUCEMYRA with a gradual dose reduction over 2 to 4 days. ( 2.1 ) Hepatic or Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustments are recommended based on degree of impairment. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) 2.1 Dosing Information The usual LUCEMYRA starting dosage is three 0.18 mg tablets taken orally 4 times daily during the period of peak withdrawal symptoms (generally the first 5 to 7 days following last use of opioid) with dosing guided by symptoms and side effects. There should be 5 to 6 hours between each dose.

Side Effects

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling: Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Central Nervous System Depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Opioid Overdose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Discontinuation Symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 10% and notably more frequent than placebo) are orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia, hypotension, dizziness, somnolence, sedation, and dry mouth.

Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Methadone : Methadone and LUCEMYRA both prolong the QT interval. ECG monitoring is recommended when used concomitantly. ( 7.1 ) Oral Naltrexone : Concomitant use may reduce efficacy of oral naltrexone. ( 7.2 ) CYP2D6 Inhibitors : Concomitant use of paroxetine resulted in increased plasma levels of LUCEMYRA. Monitor for symptoms of orthostasis and bradycardia with concomitant use of a CYP2D6 inhibitor. ( 7.4 ) 7.1 Methadone LUCEMYRA and methadone both prolong the QT interval. ECG monitoring is recommended in patients receiving methadone and LUCEMYRA concomitantly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .

Warnings

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Risk of Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope : May cause a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in pulse, and syncope. Monitor vital signs before dosing and advise patients on how to minimize the risk of these cardiovascular effects and manage symptoms, should they occur. Monitor symptoms related to bradycardia and orthostasis. When using in outpatients, ensure that patients are capable of self-monitoring for signs and symptoms. Avoid use in patients with severe coronary insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, or chronic renal failure, as well as in patients with marked bradycardia. ( 5.1 ) Risk of QT Prolongation : LUCEMYRA prolongs the QT interval. Avoid use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None. ( 4 )

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The safety of LUCEMYRA in pregnant women has not been established. In animal reproduction studies, oral administration of lofexidine during organogenesis to pregnant rats and rabbits caused a reduction in fetal weights, increases in fetal resorptions, and litter loss at exposures below that in humans. When oral lofexidine was administered from the beginning of organogenesis through lactation, increased stillbirths and litter loss were noted along with decreased viability and lactation indices.

Storage

Storage Store in original container at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep LUCEMYRA away from excess heat and moisture both in the pharmacy and after dispensing. Do not remove desiccant packs from bottles until all tablets are used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lofexidine Hydrochloride used for?

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE LUCEMYRA is indicated for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms to facilitate abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. LUCEMYRA is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist indicated for mitigation of opioid withdrawal symptoms to facilitate abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. ( 1 )

What are the side effects of Lofexidine Hydrochloride?

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling: Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Central Nervous System Depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Opioid Overdose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Discontinuation Symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 10% and notably more frequent than placebo) are orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia, hypotension, dizziness, somnolence, sedation, and dry mouth.

Can I take Lofexidine Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The safety of LUCEMYRA in pregnant women has not been established. In animal reproduction studies, oral administration of lofexidine during organogenesis to pregnant rats and rabbits caused a reduction in fetal weights, increases in fetal resorptions, and litter loss at exposures below that in humans. When oral lofexidine was administered from the beginning of organogenesis through lactation, increased stillbirths and litter loss were noted along with decreased viability and lactation indices.

What are the important warnings for Lofexidine Hydrochloride?

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Risk of Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope : May cause a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in pulse, and syncope. Monitor vital signs before dosing and advise patients on how to minimize the risk of these cardiovascular effects and manage symptoms, should they occur. Monitor symptoms related to bradycardia and orthostasis. When using in outpatients, ensure that patients are capable of self-monitoring for signs and symptoms. Avoid use in patients with severe coronary insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, or chronic renal failure, as well as in patients with marked bradycardia. ( 5.1 ) Risk of QT Prolongation : LUCEMYRA prolongs the QT interval. Avoid use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None. ( 4 )

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.