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PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
®
ARIXTRA
(fondaparinux sodium)
Injection

SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMAS
When neuraxial anesthesia (epidural/spinal anesthesia) or spinal puncture is employed, patients
anticoagulated or scheduled to be anticoagulated with low molecular weight heparins, heparinoids or
fondaparinux sodium for prevention of thromboembolic complications are at risk of developing an
epidural or spinal hematoma which can result in long-term or permanent paralysis.
The risk of these events is increased by the use of indwelling epidural catheters for
administration of analgesia or by the concomitant use of drugs affecting hemostasis such as non-
steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, or other anticoagulants. The risk also
appears to be increased by traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal puncture.
Patients should be frequently monitored for signs and symptoms of neurologic impairment. If
neurologic compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary.
The physician should consider the potential benefit versus risk before neuraxial intervention in
patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis (see also WARNINGS:
Hemorrhage and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions).

DESCRIPTION
ARIXTRA® (fondaparinux sodium) Injection is a sterile solution containing fondaparinux
sodium. It is a synthetic and specific inhibitor of activated Factor X (Xa). Fondaparinux sodium is
methyl O-2-deoxy-6-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-D-glucopyra-
nuronosyl-(1→4)-O-2-deoxy-3,6-di-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-2-O-sulfo-
α-L-idopyranuronosyl-(1→4)-2-deoxy-6-O-sulfo-2-(sulfoamino)-α-D-glucopyranoside, decasodium
salt.
The molecular formula of fondaparinux sodium is C31H43N3Na10O49S8 and its molecular weight
is 1728. The structural formula is provided below:

ARIXTRA is supplied as a sterile, preservative-free injectable solution for subcutaneous use.

Each single dose, prefilled syringe of ARIXTRA, affixed with an automatic needle protection
system, contains 2.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.5 mL, 5.0 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.4 mL,
7.5 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.6 mL or 10.0 mg of fondaparinux sodium in 0.8 mL of an isotonic
solution of sodium chloride and water for injection. The final drug product is a clear and colorless to
slightly yellow liquid with a pH between 5.0 and 8.0.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Pharmacodynamics: Mechanism of Action: The antithrombotic activity of fondaparinux
sodium is the result of antithrombin III (ATIII)-mediated selective inhibition of Factor Xa. By
selectively binding to ATIII, fondaparinux sodium potentiates (about 300 times) the innate
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neutralization of Factor Xa by ATIII. Neutralization of Factor Xa interrupts the blood coagulation

cascade and thus inhibits thrombin formation and thrombus development.
Fondaparinux sodium does not inactivate thrombin (activated Factor II) and has no known
effect on platelet function. At the recommended dose, fondaparinux sodium does not affect fibrinolytic
activity or bleeding time.
Anti-Xa Activity: The pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics of fondaparinux sodium are
derived from fondaparinux plasma concentrations quantified via anti-Factor Xa activity. Only
fondaparinux can be used to calibrate the anti-Xa assay. (The international standards of heparin or
LMWH are not appropriate for this use.) As a result, the activity of fondaparinux sodium is expressed
as milligrams (mg) of the fondaparinux calibrator. The anti-Xa activity of the drug increases with
increasing drug concentration, reaching maximum values in approximately 3 hours.
Pharmacokinetics: Absorption: Fondaparinux sodium administered by subcutaneous injection is
rapidly and completely absorbed (absolute bioavailability is 100%). Following a single subcutaneous
dose of fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg in young male subjects, Cmax of 0.34 mg/L is reached in
approximately 2 hours. In patients undergoing treatment with fondaparinux sodium injection 2.5 mg,
once daily, the peak steady-state plasma concentration is, on average, 0.39-0.50 mg/L and is reached
approximately 3 hours post-dose. In these patients, the minimum steady-state plasma concentration is
0.14-0.19 mg/L. In patients with symptomatic deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
undergoing treatment with fondaparinux sodium injection 5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body
weight 50-100 kg) and 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) once daily, the body-weight-adjusted doses
provide similar mean steady-state peaks and minimum plasma concentrations across all body weight
categories. The mean peak steady-state plasma concentration is in the range of 1.20-1.26 mg/L. In
these patients, the mean minimum steady-state plasma concentration is in the range of 0.46-0.62 mg/L.
Distribution: In healthy adults, intravenously or subcutaneously administered fondaparinux
sodium distributes mainly in blood and only to a minor extent in extravascular fluid as evidenced by
steady state and non-steady state apparent volume of distribution of 7-11 L. Similar fondaparinux
distribution occurs in patients undergoing elective hip surgery or hip fracture surgery. In vitro,
fondaparinux sodium is highly (at least 94%) and specifically bound to antithrombin III (ATIII) and
does not bind significantly to other plasma proteins (including platelet Factor 4 [PF4]) or red blood
cells.
Metabolism: In vivo metabolism of fondaparinux has not been investigated since the majority
of the administered dose is eliminated unchanged in urine in individuals with normal kidney function.
Elimination: In individuals with normal kidney function fondaparinux is eliminated in urine
mainly as unchanged drug. In healthy individuals up to 75 years of age, up to 77% of a single
subcutaneous or intravenous fondaparinux dose is eliminated in urine as unchanged drug in 72 hours.
The elimination half-life is 17-21 hours.
Special Populations: Renal Impairment: Fondaparinux elimination is prolonged in patients with
renal impairment since the major route of elimination is urinary excretion of unchanged drug. In
patients undergoing prophylaxis following elective hip surgery or hip fracture surgery, the total
clearance of fondaparinux is approximately 25% lower in patients with mild renal impairment
(creatinine clearance 50 to 80 mL/min), approximately 40% lower in patients with moderate renal
impairment (creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min) and approximately 55% lower in patients with
severe renal impairment (<30 mL/min) compared to patients with normal renal function. A similar
relationship between fondaparinux clearance and extent of renal impairment was observed in DVT
treatment patients. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS: Renal Impairment.)
Hepatic Impairment: The pharmacokinetic properties of fondaparinux have not been studied
in patients with hepatic impairment.
Elderly Patients: Fondaparinux elimination is prolonged in patients over 75 years old. In
studies evaluating fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg prophylaxis in hip fracture surgery or elective hip
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surgery, the total clearance of fondaparinux was approximately 25% lower in patients over 75 years
old as compared to patients less than 65 years old. A similar relationship between fondaparinux
clearance and age was observed in DVT treatment patients.
Patients Weighing Less Than 50 kg: Total clearance of fondaparinux sodium is decreased
by approximately 30% in patients weighing less than 50 kg (see CONTRAINDICATIONS and
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Gender: The pharmacokinetic properties of fondaparinux sodium are not significantly affected
by gender.
Race: Pharmacokinetic differences due to race have not been studied prospectively. However,
studies performed in Asian (Japanese) healthy subjects did not reveal a different pharmacokinetic
profile compared to Caucasian healthy subjects. Similarly, no plasma clearance differences were
observed between Black and Caucasian patients undergoing orthopedic surgery.
Drug Interactions: see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions.

CLINICAL STUDIES
Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery: In a randomized,
double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, ARIXTRA Injection 2.5 mg SC
once daily was compared to enoxaparin sodium 40 mg SC once daily, which is not approved for use in
patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. A total of 1,711 patients were randomized and 1,673 were
treated. Patients ranged in age from 17-101 years (mean age 77 years) with 25% men and 75% women.
Patients were 99% Caucasian, 1% other races. Patients with multiple trauma affecting more than one
organ system, serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L), or platelet count less than
100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. ARIXTRA was initiated after surgery in 88% of patients
(mean 6 hrs) and enoxaparin sodium was initiated after surgery in 74% of patients (mean 18 hrs). For
both drugs, treatment was continued for 7 ± 2 days. The primary efficacy endpoint, venous
thromboembolism (VTE), was a composite of documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or
documented symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) reported up to Day 11. The efficacy data are
provided in Table 1 below and demonstrate that under the conditions of the trial fondaparinux sodium
was associated with a VTE rate of 8.3% compared with a VTE rate of 19.1% for enoxaparin sodium
for a relative risk reduction of 56% (95% CI: 39%, 70%; p<0.001). Major bleeding episodes occurred
in 2.2% of ARIXTRA patients and 2.3% of enoxaparin sodium patients (see Tables 8 and 9 under
ADVERSE REACTIONS: Hemorrhage).
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Table 1. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Peri-operative Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic

Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery
Peri-operative Prophylaxis
(Day 1 to Day 7 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Sodium Enoxaparin Sodium
2.5 mg SC 40 mg SC
1
Endpoint once daily once daily1,2
All Treated N = 831 N = 840
Hip Fracture
Surgery Patients
All Evaluable3 Hip Fracture Surgery Patients
VTE4 52/626 119/624
5
8.3% 19.1%
(6.3, 10.8)6 (16.1, 22.4)
All DVT 49/624 117/623
7.9%5 18.8%
(5.9, 10.2) (15.8, 22.1)
Proximal DVT 6/650 28/646
5
0.9% 4.3%
(0.3, 2.0) (2.9, 6.2)
Symptomatic PE 3/831 3/840
0.4%7 0.4%
(0.1, 1.1) (0.1, 1.0)
1
ARIXTRA was initiated after surgery in 88% of patients (mean 6 hrs) and enoxaparin sodium
was initiated after surgery in 74% of patients (mean 18 hrs).
2
Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.
3
Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery (i.e.,
hip fracture surgery of the upper third of the femur), with an adequate efficacy assessment up
to Day 11.
4
VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE reported up
to Day 11.
5
p value <0.001.
6
Numbers in parentheses indicate 95% confidence interval.
7
p value: NS.

Extended Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery: In a

noncomparative, unblinded manner, 737 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery were initially treated
during the peri-operative period with ARIXTRA 2.5 mg once daily for 7 ± 1 days. Eighty one (81) of
the 737 patients were not eligible for randomization into the 3-week double-blind period. Three
hundred twenty six (326) patients and 330 patients were randomized to receive ARIXTRA 2.5 mg
once daily or placebo, respectively, in or out of the hospital for 21 ± 2 days. Patients ranged in age
from 23 to 96 years (mean age 75 years) and were 29% men and 71% women. Patients were 99%
Caucasian and 1% other races. Patients with multiple traumas affecting more than one organ system or
serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L) were excluded from the trial. The primary
efficacy endpoint, venous thromboembolism (VTE), was a composite of documented deep vein
thrombosis (DVT) and/or documented symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) reported for up to
24 days following randomization. The efficacy data are provided in Table 2 below and demonstrate
that extended prophylaxis with fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 1.4%
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compared with a VTE rate of 35.0% for placebo for a relative risk reduction of 95.9% (95%
CI = [98.7; 87.1], p<0.0001). Major bleeding rates during the 3-week extended prophylaxis period for
ARIXTRA (2.4%) and placebo (0.6%) are provided in Tables 8 and 9 (see ADVERSE REACTIONS:
Hemorrhage).

Table 2. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Extended Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic

Events Following Hip Fracture Surgery
Extended Prophylaxis
(Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)

Endpoint
Fondaparinux Sodium Placebo
2.5 mg SC once daily SC once daily
All Randomized N = 326 N = 330
Treated Hip Fracture
Surgery Patients
All Randomized Evaluable Hip Fracture Surgery Patients1
VTE2 3/208 77/220
1.4%3 35.0%
4
(0.3, 4.2) (28.7, 41.7)
All DVT 3/208 74/218
3
1.4% 33.9%
(0.3, 4.2) (27.7, 40.6)
Proximal DVT 2/221 35/222
0.9%3 15.8%
(0.1, 3.2) (11.2, 21.2)
Symptomatic VTE (all) 1/326 9/330
5
0.3% 2.7%
(0.0, 1.7) (1.3, 5.1)
Symptomatic PE 0/326 3/330
0.0%6 0.9%
(0.0, 1.1) (0.2, 2.6)
1
Evaluable patients were those who were treated in the post-randomization period, with an
adequate efficacy assessment for up to 24 days following randomization.
2
VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE reported for
up to 24 days following randomization.
3
p value <0.001.
4
Number in parentheses indicates 95% confidence interval.
5
p value = 0.021.
6
p value = NS.

Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Hip Replacement Surgery: In 2

randomized, double-blind, clinical trials in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery, ARIXTRA
2.5 mg SC once daily was compared to either enoxaparin sodium 30 mg SC every 12 hours (Study 1)
or to enoxaparin sodium 40 mg SC once a day (Study 2). In Study 1, a total of 2,275 patients were
randomized and 2,257 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 18 to 92 years (mean age 65 years)
with 48% men and 52% women. Patients were 94% Caucasian, 4% Black, <1% Asian, and 2% others.
In Study 2, a total of 2,309 patients were randomized and 2,273 were treated. Patients ranged in age
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from 24 to 97 years (mean age 65 years) with 42% men and 58% women. Patients were 99%
Caucasian, and 1% other races. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L),
or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from both trials. In Study 1, ARIXTRA was
initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.5 hrs) after surgery in 92% of patients and enoxaparin sodium was
initiated 12 to 24 hours (mean 20.25 hrs) after surgery in 97% of patients. In Study 2, ARIXTRA was
initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.25 hrs) after surgery in 86% of patients and enoxaparin sodium was
initiated 12 hours before surgery in 78% of patients. The first post-operative enoxaparin sodium dose
was given before 12 hours after surgery in 60% of patients and 12 to 24 hours after surgery in 35% of
patients with a mean of 13 hours. For both studies, both study treatments were continued for 7 ± 2
days. The efficacy data are provided in Table 3 below. Under the conditions of Study 1, fondaparinux
sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 6.1% compared with a VTE rate of 8.3% for enoxaparin
sodium for a relative risk reduction of 26% (95% CI: -11%, 53%; p = NS). Under the conditions of
Study 2, fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 4.1% compared with a VTE rate of
9.2% for enoxaparin sodium for a relative risk reduction of 56% (95% CI: 33%, 73%; p<0.001). For
the 2 studies combined, the major bleeding episodes occurred in 3.0% of ARIXTRA patients and 2.1%
of enoxaparin sodium patients (see Tables 8 and 9 under ADVERSE REACTIONS: Hemorrhage).
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Table 3. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events

Following Hip Replacement Surgery
Study 1 Study 2
Fondaparinux Enoxaparin Fondaparinux Enoxaparin
Sodium Sodium Sodium Sodium
2.5 mg SC 30 mg SC 2.5 mg SC 40 mg SC
Endpoint once daily1 every 12 hr3 once daily2 once daily4
All Treated N = 1,126 N = 1,128 N = 1,129 N = 1,123
Hip
Replacement
Surgery Patients
All Evaluable5 Hip Replacement Surgery Patients
VTE6 48/787 66/797 37/908 85/919
6.1%7 8.3% 4.1%10 9.2%
(4.5, 8.0)8 (6.5, 10.4) (2.9, 5.6) (7.5, 11.3)
All DVT 44/784 65/796 36/908 83/918
5.6%9 8.2% 4.0%10 9.0%
(4.1, 7.5) (6.4, 10.3) (2.8, 5.4) (7.3, 11.1)
Proximal DVT 14/816 10/830 6/922 23/927
7 11
1.7% 1.2% 0.7% 2.5%
(0.9, 2.9) (0.6, 2.2) (0.2, 1.4) (1.6, 3.7)
Symptomatic PE 5/1,126 1/1,128 2/1,129 2/1,123
0.4%7 0.1% 0.2%7 0.2%
(0.1, 1.0) (0.0, 0.5) (0.0, 0.6) (0.0, 0.6)
1
In Study 1, ARIXTRA was initiated after surgery in 92% of patients (mean 6.5 hrs).
2
In Study 2, ARIXTRA was initiated after surgery in 86% of patients (mean 6.25 hrs).
3
In Study 1, enoxaparin sodium was initiated after surgery in 97% of patients (mean
20.25 hrs).
4
In Study 2, enoxaparin sodium was initiated before surgery in 78% of patients. The first
postoperative dose was given a mean of 13 hours after surgery.
5
Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery
(i.e., hip replacement surgery), with an adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 11.
6
VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE
reported up to Day 11.
7
p value versus enoxaparin sodium: NS.
8
Numbers in parentheses indicates 95% confidence interval.
9
p value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 1: <0.05.
10
p value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 2: <0.001.
11
p value versus enoxaparin sodium in study 2: <0.01.

Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Knee Replacement Surgery: In a

randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery (i.e., surgery
requiring resection of the distal end of the femur or proximal end of the tibia), ARIXTRA 2.5 mg SC
once daily was compared to enoxaparin sodium 30 mg SC every 12 hours. A total of 1,049 patients
were randomized and 1,034 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 19 to 94 years (mean age
68 years) with 41% men and 59% women. Patients were 88% Caucasian, 8% Black, <1% Asian, and
3% others. Patients with serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L), or platelet count less
than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. ARIXTRA was initiated 6 ± 2 hours (mean 6.25 hrs)
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after surgery in 94% of patients, and enoxaparin sodium was initiated 12 to 24 hours (mean 21 hrs)
after surgery in 96% of patients. For both drugs, treatment was continued for 7 ± 2 days. The efficacy
data are provided in Table 4 below and demonstrate that under the conditions of the trial, fondaparinux
sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 12.5% compared with a VTE rate of 27.8% for enoxaparin
sodium for a relative risk reduction of 55% (95% CI: 36%, 70%; p<0.001). Major bleeding episodes
occurred in 2.1% of ARIXTRA patients and 0.2% of enoxaparin sodium patients (see Tables 8 and 9
under ADVERSE REACTIONS: Hemorrhage).

Table 4. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events

Following Knee Replacement Surgery
Fondaparinux Sodium Enoxaparin Sodium
2.5 mg SC 30 mg SC
Endpoint once daily1 every 12 hours2
All Treated N = 517 N = 517
Knee Replacement
Surgery Patients
All Evaluable3 Knee Replacement Surgery Patients
VTE4 45/361 101/363
12.5%5 27.8%
6
(9.2, 16.3) (23.3, 32.7)
All DVT 45/361 98/361
5
12.5% 27.1%
(9.2, 16.3) (22.6, 32.0)
Proximal DVT 9/368 20/372
2.4%7 5.4%
(1.1, 4.6) (3.3, 8.2)
Symptomatic PE 1/517 4/517
7
0.2% 0.8%
(0.0, 1.1) (0.2, 2.0)
1
Patients randomized to ARIXTRA 2.5 mg received the first injection 6 ± 2 hours after
surgery providing that hemostasis had been achieved.
2
Patients randomized to enoxaparin sodium received the first injection at 21 ± 2 hours after
surgery closure providing that hemostasis had been achieved.
3
Evaluable patients were those who were treated and underwent the appropriate surgery (i.e.
knee replacement surgery), with an adequate efficacy assessment up to Day 11.
4
VTE was a composite of documented DVT and/or documented symptomatic PE reported up
to Day 11.
5
p value <0.001.
6
Numbers in parentheses indicates 95% confidence interval.
7
p value: NS.

Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following Abdominal Surgery in Patients at

Risk for Thromboembolic Complications: Abdominal surgery patients at risk included the
following: those undergoing surgery under general anesthesia lasting longer than 45 minutes who are
over 60 years of age with or without additional risk factors; and those undergoing surgery under
general anesthesia lasting longer than 45 minutes who are over 40 years of age with additional risk
factors. Risk factors included neoplastic disease, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
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inflammatory bowel disease, history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), or
congestive heart failure.
In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients undergoing abdominal surgery,
ARIXTRA 2.5 mg SC once daily started postoperatively was compared to dalteparin sodium 5,000 IU
SC once daily, with one 2,500 IU SC preoperative injection and a 2,500 IU SC first postoperative
injection. A total of 2,927 patients were randomized and 2,858 were treated. Patients ranged in age
from 17 to 93 years (mean age 65 years) with 55% men and 45% women. Patients were 97%
Caucasian, 1% Black, 1% Asian, and 1% others. Patients with serum creatinine level more than
2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. Sixty-
nine percent (69%) of study patients underwent cancer-related abdominal surgery. Study treatment was
continued for 7 ± 2 days. The efficacy data are provided in Table 5 below and demonstrate that
prophylaxis with fondaparinux sodium was associated with a VTE rate of 4.6% compared with a VTE
rate of 6.1% for dalteparin sodium (p = NS).

Table 5. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection In Prophylaxis of Thromboembolic Events Following

Abdominal Surgery
Fondaparinux Sodium Dalteparin Sodium
2.5 mg SC 5,000 IU SC
Endpoint once daily once daily
All Treated N = 1,433 N = 1,425
Abdominal
Surgery Patients
All Evaluable1 Abdominal Surgery Patients
VTE2 47/1,027 62/1,021
4.6%3 6.1%
4
(3.4, 6.0) (4.7, 7.7)
All DVT 43/1,024 59/1,018
4.2% 5.8%
(3.1, 5.6) (4.4, 7.4)
Proximal DVT 5/1,076 5/1,077
0.5% 0.5%
(0.2, 1.1) (0.2, 1.1)
Symptomatic VTE 6/1,465 5/1,462
0.4% 0.3%
(0.2, 0.9) (0.1, 0.8)
1
Evaluable patients were those who were randomized and had an adequate efficacy assessment
up to Day 10; non-treated patients and patients who did not undergo surgery did not get a VTE
assessment.
2
VTE was a composite of venogram positive DVT, symptomatic DVT, non-fatal PE and/or
fatal PE reported up to Day 10.
3
p value versus dalteparin sodium: NS.
4
Numbers in parentheses indicate 95% confidence interval.

Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis: In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial in patients

with a confirmed diagnosis of acute symptomatic DVT without PE, ARIXTRA 5 mg (body weight
<50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50-100 kg) or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) SC once daily (ARIXTRA
treatment regimen) was compared to enoxaparin sodium 1 mg/kg SC every 12 hours. Almost all
patients started study treatment in hospital. Approximately 30% of patients in both groups were
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discharged home from the hospital while receiving study treatment. A total of 2,205 patients were
randomized and 2,192 were treated. Patients ranged in age from 18-95 years (mean age 61 years) with
53% men and 47% women. Patients were 97% Caucasian, 2% Black and 1% other races. Patients with
serum creatinine level more than 2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were
excluded from the trial. For both groups, treatment continued for a least 5 days with a treatment
duration range of 7 ± 2 days, and both treatment groups received Vitamin K antagonist therapy
initiated within 72 hours after the first study drug administration and continued for 90 ± 7 days, with
regular dose adjustments to achieve an INR of 2-3. The primary efficacy endpoint was confirmed,
symptomatic, recurrent VTE reported up to Day 97. The efficacy data are provided in Table 6 below.

Table 6. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Fondaparinux Sodium1
5, 7.5, or 10 mg SC once daily Enoxaparin Sodium1
Endpoint (Treatment Regimen) 1 mg/kg SC q 12h
All Randomized N = 1,098 N = 1,107
DVT Patients
Total VTE2 433 45
3.9% 4.1%
(2.8, 5.2)4 (3.0, 5.4)
DVT only 18 28
1.6% 2.5%
(1.0, 2.6) (1.7, 3.6)
Non-fatal PE 20 12
1.8% 1.1%
(1.1, 2.8) (0.6, 1.9)
Fatal PE 5 5
0.5% 0.5%
(0.1, 1.1) (0.1, 1.1)
1
Patients were also treated with Vitamin K antagonists initiated within 72 hours after the first
study drug administration.
2
VTE was a composite of symptomatic recurrent non fatal VTE or fatal PE reported up to Day
97.
3
The 95% confidence interval for the treatment difference for total VTE was: (-1.8% to 1.5%).
4
Number in parentheses indicates 95% confidence interval.

During the initial treatment period, 18 (1.6% of patients treated with fondaparinux sodium and
10 (0.9%) of patients treated with enoxaparin sodium had a VTE endpoint (95% CI for the treatment
difference [fondaparinux sodium-enoxaparin sodium] for VTE rates: -0.2%; 1.7%).
Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism: In a randomized, open-label, clinical trial in patients with a
confirmed diagnosis of acute symptomatic PE, with or without DVT, ARIXTRA 5 mg (body weight
<50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50-100 kg) or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) SC once daily (ARIXTRA
treatment regimen) was compared to heparin IV bolus (5,000 USP units) followed by a continuous IV
infusion adjusted to maintain 1.5-2.5 times aPTT control value. Patients with a PE requiring
thrombolysis or surgical thrombectomy were excluded from the trial. All patients started study
treatment in hospital. Approximately 15% of patients were discharged home from the hospital while
receiving fondaparinux therapy. A total of 2,213 patients were randomized and 2,184 were treated.
Patients ranged in age from 18-97 years (mean age 62 years) with 44% men and 56% women. Patients
were 94% Caucasian, 5% Black and 1% other races. Patients with serum creatinine level more than
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2 mg/dL (180 µmol/L), or platelet count less than 100,000/mm3 were excluded from the trial. For both
groups, treatment continued for at least 5 days with a treatment duration range 7 ± 2 days, and both
treatment groups received Vitamin K antagonist therapy initiated within 72 hours after the first study
drug administration and continued for 90 ± 7 days, with regular dose adjustments to achieve an INR of
2-3. The primary efficacy endpoint was confirmed, symptomatic, recurrent VTE reported up to Day
97. The efficacy data are provided in Table 7 below.

Table 7. Efficacy of ARIXTRA Injection in the Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

Fondaparinux Sodium1 Heparin1
1
5, 7.5, or 10 mg SC once daily aPTT adjusted IV
Endpoint (Treatment Regimen)
All Randomized PE Patients N = 1,103 N = 1,110
2 3
Total VTE 42 56
3.8% 5.0%
(2.8, 5.1)4 (3.8, 6.5)
DVT only 12 17
1.1% 1.5%
(0.6, 1.9) (0.9, 2.4)
Non-fatal PE 14 24
1.3% 2.2%
(0.7, 2.1) (1.4, 3.2)
Fatal PE 16 15
1.5% 1.4%
(0.8, 2.3) (0.8, 2.2)
1
Patients were also treated with Vitamin K antagonists initiated within 72 hours after the first
study drug administration.
2
VTE was a composite of symptomatic recurrent non fatal VTE or fatal PE reported up to Day
97.
3
The 95% confidence interval for the treatment difference for total VTE was: (-3.0% to 0.5%).
4
Number in parentheses indicates 95% confidence interval.

During the initial treatment period, 12 (1.1%) of patients treated with fondaparinux sodium and
19 (1.7%) of patients treated with heparin had a VTE endpoint (95% CI for the treatment difference
[fondaparinux sodium-heparin] for VTE rates: -1.6%; 0.4%).

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ARIXTRA Injection is indicated for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis, which may lead
to pulmonary embolism:
• in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, including extended prophylaxis;
• in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery;
• in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery;
• in patients undergoing abdominal surgery who are at risk for thromboembolic complications.
ARIXTRA Injection is indicated for:
• the treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis when administered in conjunction with warfarin
sodium, and
NDA 21-345/S-010
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• the treatment of acute pulmonary embolism when administered in conjunction with warfarin
sodium when initial therapy is administered in the hospital.
(See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section for appropriate dosage regimen.)

CONTRAINDICATIONS
ARIXTRA Injection is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine
clearance <30 mL/min). ARIXTRA is eliminated primarily by the kidneys, and such patients are at
increased risk for major bleeding episodes (see WARNINGS: Renal Impairment).
ARIXTRA prophylactic therapy is contraindicated in patients with body weight <50 kg
undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement or knee replacement surgery, and abdominal surgery. During
the randomized clinical trials of prophylaxis in the peri-operative period following hip fracture, hip
replacement, or knee replacement surgery, occurrence of major bleeding was doubled in patients with a
body weight <50 kg compared with those with a body weight ≥50 kg (5.4% versus 2.1%). In the
clinical trial in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, the major bleeding rate was also higher in
patients with a body weight <50 kg as compared to those with a body weight ≥50 kg (5.3% versus
3.3%), respectively.
The use of ARIXTRA is contraindicated in patients with active major bleeding, bacterial
endocarditis, in patients with thrombocytopenia associated with a positive in vitro test for anti-platelet
antibody in the presence of fondaparinux sodium, or in patients with known hypersensitivity to
fondaparinux sodium.

WARNINGS
ARIXTRA Injection is not intended for intramuscular administration.
ARIXTRA cannot be used interchangeably (unit for unit) with heparin, low molecular weight
heparins or heparinoids, as they differ in manufacturing process, anti-Xa and anti-IIa activity, units,
and dosage. Each of these medicines has its own instructions for use.
Renal Impairment (See also CONTRAINDICATIONS): Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement
and Knee Replacement Surgeries: Major bleeding in patients receiving prophylactic therapy in
hip fracture, hip replacement or knee replacement surgery occurred in 1.6% (25/1,565) of patients with
normal renal function, in 2.4% (31/1,288) with mild renal impairment, in 3.8% (19/504) with moderate
renal impairment, and in 4.8% (4/83) with severe renal impairment. When ARIXTRA was used
according to the recommended timing of the first injection (6 to 8 hours after surgery), major bleeding
occurred in 1.8% (16/905) of patients with normal renal function, in 2.2% (15/675) with mild renal
impairment, in 2.3% (6/265) with moderate renal impairment, and in 0% (0/40) with severe renal
impairment.
Abdominal Surgery: Major bleeding in patients receiving prophylactic therapy in abdominal
surgery occurred in 2.1% (13/606) of patients with normal renal function, in 3.6% (22/613) with mild
renal impairment, in 6.7% (12/179) with moderate renal impairment, and in 7.1% (1/14) with severe
renal impairment. When ARIXTRA was used according to the recommended timing of the first
injection (6 to 8 hours after surgery), major bleeding occurred in 2.1% (10/467) of patients with normal
renal function, in 3.3% (16/481) with mild renal impairment, in 5.8% (8/137) with moderate renal
impairment, and in 7.7% (1/13) with severe renal impairment.
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: Major bleeding in
patients receiving treatment for DVT and PE occurred in 0.4% (4/1,132) of patients with normal renal
function, in 1.6% (12/733) with mild renal impairment, in 2.2% (7/318) with moderate renal
impairment, and in 7.3% (4/55) with severe renal impairment.
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ARIXTRA should be used with caution in patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine
clearance 30-50 mL/min). (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Special Populations, Renal
Impairment.)
Renal function should be assessed periodically in patients receiving ARIXTRA. The drug
should be discontinued immediately in patients who develop severe renal impairment while on therapy.
After discontinuation of ARIXTRA, its anticoagulant effects may persist for 2-4 days in patients with
normal renal function (i.e., at least 3-5 half-lives). The anticoagulant effects of ARIXTRA may persist
even longer in patients with renal impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Hemorrhage: ARIXTRA Injection, like other anticoagulants, should be used with extreme caution in
conditions with increased risk of hemorrhage, such as congenital or acquired bleeding disorders, active
ulcerative and angiodysplastic gastrointestinal disease, hemorrhagic stroke, or shortly after brain,
spinal, or ophthalmological surgery, or in patients treated concomitantly with platelet inhibitors.
Laboratory Testing: Because routine coagulation tests such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) are relatively insensitive measures of ARIXTRA
activity and international standards of heparin or LMWH are not calibrators to measure anti-Factor Xa
activity of ARIXTRA, if during ARIXTRA therapy unexpected changes in coagulation parameters or
major bleeding occurs, ARIXTRA should be discontinued (see PRECAUTIONS: Laboratory Tests).
Neuraxial Anesthesia and Post-operative Indwelling Epidural Catheter Use: Spinal or
epidural hematomas, which may result in long-term or permanent paralysis, can occur with the use of
anticoagulants and neuraxial (spinal/epidural) anesthesia or spinal puncture. The risk of these events
may be higher with post-operative use of indwelling epidural catheters or concomitant use of other
drugs affecting hemostasis such as NSAIDs (see Boxed Warning for Spinal/Epidural Hematomas).
In spontaneous post-marketing reports, there have been several cases of epidural or spinal hematoma
that have occurred in association with the use of ARIXTRA SC injection.
Thrombocytopenia: Thrombocytopenia can occur with the administration of ARIXTRA. Moderate
thrombocytopenia (platelet counts between 100,000/mm3 and 50,000/mm3) occurred at a rate of 3.0%
in patients given ARIXTRA 2.5 mg in the peri-operative hip fracture, hip replacement or knee
replacement surgery and abdominal surgery clinical trials. Severe thrombocytopenia (platelet counts
less than 50,000/mm3) occurred at a rate of 0.2% in patients given ARIXTRA 2.5 mg in these clinical
trials. During extended prophylaxis, no cases of moderate or severe thrombocytopenia were reported.
Moderate thrombocytopenia occurred at a rate of 0.5% in patients given the ARIXTRA
treatment regimen in the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials. Severe thrombocytopenia occurred at a
rate of 0.04% in patients given the ARIXTRA treatment regimen in the DVT and PE treatment clinical
trials.
Thrombocytopenia of any degree should be monitored closely. If the platelet count falls below
100,000/mm3, ARIXTRA should be discontinued.

PRECAUTIONS
General: ARIXTRA Injection should be administered according to the recommended regimen,
especially with respect to the timing of the first dose after surgery. In the hip fracture, hip
replacement, knee replacement, or abdominal surgery clinical studies, the administration of
ARIXTRA before 6 hours after surgery has been associated with an increased risk of major
bleeding (see ADVERSE REACTIONS: Hemorrhage and DOSAGE AND
ADMINISTRATION).
ARIXTRA Injection should be used with care in patients with a bleeding diathesis,
uncontrolled arterial hypertension, or a history of recent gastrointestinal ulceration, diabetic
retinopathy, and hemorrhage.
ARIXTRA Injection should be used with caution in elderly patients (see PRECAUTIONS:
Geriatric Use).
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ARIXTRA should be used with caution in patients with a low body weight (<50 kg) for the
treatment of PE and DVT.
ARIXTRA Injection should not be mixed with other injections or infusions.
If thrombotic events occur despite ARIXTRA prophylaxis, appropriate therapy should be
initiated.
Laboratory Tests: Periodic routine complete blood counts (including platelet count), serum
creatinine level, and stool occult blood tests are recommended during the course of treatment with
ARIXTRA Injection.
When administered at the recommended doses, routine coagulation tests such as Prothrombin
Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) are relatively insensitive measures of
ARIXTRA activity, and are therefore, unsuitable for monitoring.
The anti-Factor Xa activity of fondaparinux sodium can be measured by anti-Xa assay using
the appropriate calibrator (fondaparinux). Since the international standards of heparin or LMWH are
not appropriate calibrators, the activity of fondaparinux sodium is expressed in milligrams (mg) of the
fondaparinux and cannot be compared with activities of heparin or low molecular weight heparins (see
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics and WARNINGS:
Laboratory Testing).
Drug Interactions: In clinical studies performed with ARIXTRA, the concomitant use of oral
anticoagulants (warfarin), platelet inhibitors (acetylsalicylic acid), NSAIDs (piroxicam), and digoxin
did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of fondaparinux sodium. In
addition, ARIXTRA neither influenced the pharmacodynamics of warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid,
piroxicam, and digoxin, nor the pharmacokinetics of digoxin at steady state.
Agents that may enhance the risk of hemorrhage should be discontinued prior to initiation of
ARIXTRA therapy. If co-administration is essential, close monitoring may be appropriate.
In an in vitro study in human liver microsomes, inhibition of CYP2A6 hydroxylation of
coumarin by fondaparinux (200 µM i.e., 350 mg/L) was 17-28%. Inhibition of the other isozymes
evaluated (CYPs 2A1, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4, and 3E1) was 0-16%. Since fondaparinux does not
markedly inhibit CYP450s (CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, or
CYP3A4) in vitro, fondaparinux sodium is not expected to significantly interact with other drugs in
vivo by inhibition of metabolism mediated by these isozymes.
Since fondaparinux sodium does not bind significantly to plasma proteins other than ATIII, no
drug interactions by protein-binding displacement are expected.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: No long-term studies in animals have
been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of fondaparinux sodium.
Fondaparinux sodium was not genotoxic in the Ames test, the mouse lymphoma cell
(L5178Y/TK+/-) forward mutation test, the human lymphocyte chromosome aberration test, the rat
hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) test, or the rat micronucleus test.
At subcutaneous doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (about 32 times the recommended human dose
based on body surface area), fondaparinux sodium was found to have no effect on fertility and
reproductive performance of male and female rats.
Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been
performed in pregnant rats at subcutaneous doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (about 32 times the
recommended human dose based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at subcutaneous doses up
to 10 mg/kg/day (about 65 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and have
revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to fondaparinux sodium. There are,
however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction
studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if
clearly needed.
NDA 21-345/S-010
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Nursing Mothers: Fondaparinux sodium was found to be excreted in the milk of lactating rats.
However, it is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are
excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when fondaparinux sodium is administered to a
nursing mother.
Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness of ARIXTRA in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric Use: ARIXTRA should be used with caution in elderly patients. Over 3,000 patients,
65 years and older, have received ARIXTRA 2.5 mg in randomized clinical trials. Over 1,200 patients,
65 years and older, have received the ARIXTRA treatment regimen in the DVT and PE treatment
clinical trials. The efficacy of ARIXTRA in the elderly (equal to or older than 65 years) was similar to
that seen in younger patients (younger than 65 years). In the peri-operative hip fracture, hip
replacement or knee replacement surgery clinical trials with patients receiving ARIXTRA 2.5 mg the
risk of ARIXTRA-associated major bleeding increased with age: 1.8% (23/1,253) in patients
<65 years, 2.2% (24/1,111) in those 65-74 years, and 2.7% (33/1,227) in those ≥75 years. Serious
adverse events increased with age for patients receiving ARIXTRA. In patients undergoing 3 weeks of
extended prophylaxis following one week of peri-operative prophylaxis after hip fracture surgery, the
incidence of major bleeding was: 1.9% (1/52) in patients <65 years, 1.4% (1/71) in those 65-74 years,
and 2.9% (6/204) in those ≥75 years. In the abdominal surgery clinical trial, the risk of ARIXTRA-
associated major bleeding increased with age: 3.0% (19/644) in patients < 65 years, 3.2% (16/507) in
those 65-74 years, and 5.0% (14/282) in those ≥75 years. In the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials
with patients receiving the ARIXTRA treatment regimen, the risk of ARIXTRA-associated major
bleeding increased with age: 0.6% (7/1151) in patients <65 years, 1.6% (9/560) in those 65-74 years,
and 2.1% (12/583) in those ≥75 years. Careful attention to dosing directions and concomitant
medications (especially anti-platelet medication) is advised (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
and PRECAUTIONS: General).
Fondaparinux sodium is substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to
ARIXTRA may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more
likely to have decreased renal function, it may be useful to monitor renal function (see
CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS: Renal Impairment).

ADVERSE REACTIONS
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates
observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of
another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The adverse reaction information from
clinical trials does, however, provide a basis for identifying possible adverse events and for
approximating rates.
The data described below reflect exposure in 8,877 patients randomized to ARIXTRA Injection
in controlled trials of hip fracture, hip replacement, major knee or abdominal surgeries, and DVT and
PE treatment. Patients received ARIXTRA primarily in 2 large peri-operative dose-response trials
(n = 989), 4 active-controlled peri-operative trials with enoxaparin sodium (n = 3,616), and an
extended prophylaxis trial (n = 327), an active-controlled trial with dalteparin sodium (n = 1,425), a
dose-response trial in DVT treatment (n = 111), an active-controlled trial with enoxaparin sodium in
DVT treatment (n = 1,091), and an active-controlled trial with heparin in PE treatment (n = 1,092) (see
CLINICAL STUDIES).
Hemorrhage: During ARIXTRA administration, the most common adverse reactions were bleeding
complications (see WARNINGS).
Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement and Knee Replacement Surgery: The rates of major
bleeding events reported during the hip fracture, hip replacement or knee replacement surgery clinical
trials with ARIXTRA 2.5 mg Injection are provided in Tables 8 and 9 below.
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Table 8. Major Bleeding Episodes1 in Randomized, Controlled, Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement
and Knee Replacement Surgery Studies
Peri-Operative Prophylaxis Extended Prophylaxis
(Day 1 to Day 7 ± 1 post-surgery) (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Fondaparinux
Sodium Sodium
2.5 mg SC Enoxaparin 2.5 mg SC Placebo
Indications once daily Sodium2, 3 once daily SC once daily
Hip Fracture 18/831 (2.2%) 19/842 (2.3%) 8/327 (2.4 %)4 2/329 (0.6 %)
Hip Replacement 67/2,268 (3.0%) 55/2,597 (2.1%) — —
Knee 11/517 (2.1%)5 1/517 (0.2%) — —
Replacement
1
Major bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was (1) fatal, (2) bleeding at
critical site (e.g. intracranial, retroperitoneal, intra-ocular, pericardial, spinal or into adrenal
gland), (3) associated with re-operation at operative site, or (4) with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2
calculated as [number of whole blood or packed red blood cell units transfused + [(pre-
bleeding) – (post-bleeding)] hemoglobin (g/dL) values].
2
Enoxaparin sodium dosing regimen: 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily.
3
Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery .
4
During noncomparative, unblinded, peri-operative prophylaxis, major bleeding was reported in
22/737 (3.0%) patients. Fifteen (15) of these 22 patients continued to receive ARIXTRA in
extended prophylaxis. After randomization, 4/327 (1.2%) patients experienced major bleeding
for the first time.
5
p value versus enoxaparin sodium: <0.01, 95% confidence interval: (1.1%, 3.3%) in
ARIXTRA group versus (0.0%, 1.1%) in enoxaparin sodium group.
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Table 9. Bleeding Across Randomized, Controlled Hip Fracture, Hip Replacement and Knee
Replacement Surgery Studies
Peri-Operative Prophylaxis Extended Prophylaxis
(Day 1 to Day 7 ± 1 post-surgery) (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Fondaparinux
Sodium Sodium
2.5 mg SC Enoxaparin 2.5 mg SC Placebo
once daily Sodium1, 2 once daily SC once daily
N = 3,616 N = 3,956 N = 327 N = 329
Major bleeding3 96 (2.7%) 75 (1.9%) 8 (2.4%)4 2 (0.6%)
Fatal 0 (0.0%) 1 (<0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
bleeding
Non-fatal 0 (0.0%) 1 (<0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
bleeding at
critical site
Re-operation 12 (0.3%) 10 (0.3%) 2 (0.6%) 2 (0.6%)
due to bleeding
BI ≥25 84 (2.3%) 63 (1.6%) 6 (1.8%) 0 (0.0%)
6
Minor bleeding 109 (3.0%) 116 (2.9%) 5 (1.5%) 2 (0.6%)
1
Enoxaparin sodium dosing regimen: 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily.
2
Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.
3
Major bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was (1) fatal, (2) bleeding at
critical site (e.g. intracranial, retroperitoneal, intra-ocular, pericardial, spinal, or into adrenal
gland), (3) associated with re-operation at operative site, or (4) with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2.
4
During non-comparative, unblinded, peri-operative prophylaxis, 2 fatal bleeds were reported
(one in a 50 kg patient, one in a severe renal failure patient).
5
BI ≥2: overt bleeding associated only with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2 calculated as [number of
whole blood or packed red blood cell units transfused + [(pre-bleeding) – (post-bleeding)]
hemoglobin (g/dL) values].
6
Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

A separate analysis of major bleeding across all randomized, controlled, peri-operative,

prophylaxis clinical studies of hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement surgery according to
the time of the first injection of ARIXTRA after surgical closure was performed in patients who
received ARIXTRA only post-operatively. In this analysis, the incidences of major bleeding were as
follows: <4 hours was 4.8% (5/104), 4-6 hours was 2.3% (28/1196), 6-8 hours was 1.9% (38/1965). In
all studies, the majority (≥75%) of the major bleeding events occurred during the first 4 days after
surgery.
ABDOMINAL SURGERY: THE RATES OF MAJOR BLEEDING REPORTED DURING THE ABDOMINAL SURGERY
CLINICAL TRIAL WITH ARIXTRA 2.5 MG ARE PROVIDED IN TABLE 10 BELOW.
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Table 10. Major Bleeding Episodes1 in Randomized, Controlled, Abdominal Surgery Study
Fondaparinux Sodium
2.5 mg SC Dalteparin Sodium
once daily 5,000 IU SC once daily
N = 1,433 N = 1,425
Major Bleeding 49 (3.4%) 34 (2.4%)
Fatal bleeding 2 (0.1%) 2 (0.1%)
Non-fatal bleeding at 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
critical site
Other non-fatal major
bleeding
Surgical site 38 (2.7%) 26 (1.8%)
Non-surgical 9 (0.6%) 6 (0.4%)
site
Minor Bleeding2 31 (2.2%) 23 (1.6%)
1
Major bleeding was defined as bleeding that was (1) fatal, (2) bleeding at the surgical site
leading to intervention, (3) non-surgical bleeding at a critical site (e.g. intracranial,
retroperitoneal, intra-ocular, pericardial, spinal or into adrenal gland), or leading to an
intervention, and/or with a bleeding index (BI) ≥2. (BI ≥2 calculated as [number of whole blood
or packed red blood cell units transfused + [(pre-bleeding) – (post-bleeding)] hemoglobin (g/dL)
values].)
2
Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

A separate analysis of major bleeding according to the time of the first injection of ARIXTRA
after surgical closure was performed. In this analysis the incidences of major bleeding were as follows:
<6 hours was 3.4% (9/263) and 6-8 hours was 2.9% (32/1112).
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: The rates of bleeding
events reported during the DVT and PE clinical trials with the ARIXTRA injection treatment regimen
are provided in Table 11 below.
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Table 11. Bleeding1 in Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Studies
Fondaparinux
Sodium Enoxaparin
Treatment Sodium Heparin
Regimen 1 mg/kg SC q 12h aPTT adjusted IV
N = 2,294 N = 1,101 N = 1,092
Major bleeding2 28 (1.2%) 13 (1.2%) 12 (1.1%)
Fatal 3 (0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 1 (0.1%)
bleeding
Non-fatal 3 (0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 2 (0.2%)
bleeding at a
critical site
Intracranial 3 (0.1%) 0 (0.0%) 1 (0.1%)
bleeding
Retro-peritoneal 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) 1 (0.1%)
bleeding
Clinically overt 22 (1.0%) 13 (1.2%) 10 (0.9%)
bleeding with a
2 g/dL fall in
hemoglobin
and/or leading to
transfusion of
PRBC or whole
blood ≥2 units
Minor bleeding3 70 (3.1%) 33 (3.0%) 57 (5.2%)
1
Bleeding rates are during the study drug treatment period (approximately 7 days).
Patients were also treated with Vitamin K antagonists initiated within 72 hours after
the first study drug administration.
2
Major bleeding was defined as clinically overt: - and/or contributing to death –
and/or in a critical organ including intracranial, retroperitoneal, intraocular, spinal,
pericardial or adrenal gland – and/or associated with a fall in hemoglobin level
≥2 g/dL – and/or leading to a transfusion ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole
blood.
3
Minor bleeding was defined as clinically overt bleeding that was not major.

Thrombocytopenia: See WARNINGS: Thrombocytopenia.

Local Reactions: Mild local irritation (injection site bleeding, rash, and pruritus) may occur
following subcutaneous injection of ARIXTRA.
Elevations of Serum Aminotransferases: In the peri-operative prophylaxis randomized clinical
trials of 7 ± 2 days asymptomatic increases in aspartate (AST [SGOT]) and alanine (ALT [SGPT])
aminotransferase levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal of the laboratory reference range
have been reported in 1.7% and 2.6% of patients, respectively, during treatment with ARIXTRA
2.5 mg Injection versus 3.2% and 3.9%, of patients, respectively, during treatment with enoxaparin
sodium 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily enoxaparin sodium. Such elevations are fully
reversible and are rarely associated with increases in bilirubin. In the extended prophylaxis clinical
trial no significant differences in aspartate (AST [SGOT]) and alanine (ALT [SGPT]) aminotransferase
levels between ARIXTRA 2.5 mg Injection and placebo treated patients were observed.
NDA 21-345/S-010
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In the DVT and PE treatment clinical trials asymptomatic increases in aspartate (AST [SGOT])
and alanine (ALT [SGPT]) aminotransferase levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal of
the laboratory reference range have been reported in 0.7% and 1.3% of patients, respectively, during
treatment with the ARIXTRA injection treatment regimen. In comparison, these increases have been
reported in 4.8% and 12.3%, of patients, respectively, in the DVT treatment trial during treatment with
enoxaparin sodium 1 mg/kg every 12 hours, and in 2.9% and 8.7%, of patients, respectively, in the PE
treatment trial during treatment with aPTT adjusted heparin.
Since aminotransferase determinations are important in the differential diagnosis of myocardial
infarction, liver disease, and pulmonary emboli, elevations that might be caused by drugs like
ARIXTRA should be interpreted with caution.
Other Adverse Events: Other adverse events that occurred during treatment with ARIXTRA, or
enoxaparin sodium in clinical trials with patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, hip replacement
surgery, or knee replacement surgery and that occurred at a rate of at least 2% in either treatment
group, are provided in Table 12 below. Other adverse events that occurred during treatment with
ARIXTRA or dalteparin sodium in clinical trials with patients undergoing abdominal surgery and that
occurred at a rate of at least 2% in either treatment group are provided in Table 13 below. Other
adverse events that occurred during treatment with ARIXTRA, enoxaparin sodium or heparin in the
DVT and PE treatment clinical trials and that occurred at a rate of at least 2% in any treatment group
are provided in Table 14 below.
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Table 12. Adverse Events Occurring in ≥2% of ARIXTRA, Enoxaparin Sodium or Placebo
Treated Patients Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Across Randomized, Controlled, Hip
Fracture Surgery, Hip Replacement Surgery or Knee Replacement Surgery Studies
Peri-Operative Prophylaxis Extended Prophylaxis
(Day 1 to Day 7 ± 1 post-surgery) (Day 8 to Day 28 ± 2 post-surgery)
Fondaparinux Fondaparinux
Sodium Sodium
2.5 mg SC Enoxaparin 2.5 mg SC Placebo
Adverse Events once daily Sodium1, 2 once daily SC once daily
N = 3616 N = 3956 N = 327 N = 329
Anemia 707 (19.6%) 670 (16.9%) 5 (1.5%) 4 (1.2%)
Fever 491 (13.6%) 610 (15.4%) 1 (0.3%) 4 (1.2%)
Nausea 409 (11.3%) 484 (12.2%) 1 (0.3%) 4 (1.2%)
Edema 313 (8.7%) 348 (8.8%) 3 (0.9%) 2 (0.6%)
Constipation 309 (8.5%) 416 (10.5%) 6 (1.8%) 7 (2.1%)
Rash 273 (7.5%) 329 (8.3%) 2 (0.6%) 4 (1.2%)
Vomiting 212 (5.9%) 236 (6.0%) 2 (0.6%) 4 (1.2%)
Insomnia 179 (5.0%) 214 (5.4%) 3 (0.9%) 1 (0.3%)
Wound drainage 161 (4.5%) 184 (4.7%) 2 (0.6%) 0 (0.0%)
increased
Hypokalemia 152 (4.2%) 164 (4.1%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Urinary tract 136 (3.8%) 135 (3.4%) 13 (4.0%) 13 (4.0%)
infection
Dizziness 131 (3.6%) 165 (4.2%) 2 (0.6%) 0 (0.0%)
Purpura 128 (3.5%) 137 (3.5%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Hypotension 126 (3.5%) 125 (3.2%) 1 (0.3%) 0 (0.0%)
Confusion 113 (3.1%) 132 (3.3%) 4 (1.2%) 1 (0.3%)
Bullous 112 (3.1%) 102 (2.6%) 0 (0.0%) 1 (0.3%)
3
eruption
Urinary retention 106 (2.9%) 117 (3.0%) 0 (0.0%) 1 (0.3%)
Hematoma 103 (2.8%) 109 (2.8%) 7 (2.1%) 1 (0.3%)
Diarrhea 90 (2.5%) 102 (2.6%) 6 (1.8%) 8 (2.4%)
Dyspepsia 87 (2.4%) 102 (2.6%) 1 (0.3%) 2 (0.6%)
Post-operative 85 (2.4%) 69 (1.7%) 2 (0.6%) 2 (0.6%)
hemorrhage
Headache 72 (2.0%) 97 (2.5%) 0 (0.0%) 2 (0.6%)
Pain 62 (1.7%) 101 (2.6%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Surgical site
29 (0.8%) 41 (1.0%) 5 (1.5%) 8 (2.4%)
reaction
1
Enoxaparin sodium dosing regimen: 30 mg every 12 hours or 40 mg once daily.
2
Not approved for use in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.
3
Localized blister coded as bullous eruption.
NDA 21-345/S-010
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Table 13. Adverse Events Occurring in ≥ 2% of ARIXTRA or Dalteparin Sodium Treated

Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug
Fondaparinux Sodium Dalteparin Sodium
2.5 mg SC 5,000 IU SC
Adverse Events once daily once daily
N = 1,433 N = 1,425
Post-operative wound infection 70 (4.9%) 69 (4.8%)
Post-operative haemorrhage 61 (4.3%) 42 (2.9%)
Fever 53 (3.7%) 54 (3.8%)
Surgical site reaction 46 (3.2%) 40 (2.8%)
Anaemia 35 (2.4%) 26 (1.8%)
Hypertension 35 (2.4%) 41 (2.9%)
Pneumonia 33 (2.3%) 23 (1.6%)
Vomiting 31 (2.2%) 26 (1.8%)

Table 14. Adverse Events Occurring in ≥2% of ARIXTRA, Enoxaparin Sodium or Heparin
Treated Patients Regardless of Relationship to Study Drug Across VTE Treatment Studies
Fondaparinux Enoxaparin
Adverse Events Sodium Sodium Heparin
(N = 2,294) (N = 1,101) (N = 1,092)
Constipation 106 (4.6%) 32 (2.9%) 93 (8.5%)
Headache 104 (4.5%) 37 (3.4%) 65 (6.0%)
Insomnia 86 (3.7%) 19 (1.7%) 75 (6.9%)
Fever 81 (3.5%) 32 (2.9%) 47 (4.3%)
Nausea 76 (3.3%) 29 (2.6%) 53 (4.9%)
Urinary tract infection 53 (2.3%) 20 (1.8%) 24 (2.2%)
Coughing 48 (2.1%) 7 (0.6%) 26 (2.4%)
Diarrhea 43 (1.9%) 22 (2.0%) 27 (2.5%)
Abdominal pain 33 (1.4%) 14 (1.3%) 28 (2.6%)
Chest pain 33 (1.4%) 8 (0.7%) 26 (2.4%)
Leg pain 31 (1.4%) 10 (0.9%) 22 (2.0%)
Back pain 30 (1.3%) 11 (1.0%) 34 (3.1%)
Epistaxis 30 (1.3%) 12 (1.1%) 41 (3.8%)
Prothrombin decreased 30 (1.3%) 3 (0.3%) 34 (3.1%)
Anemia 28 (1.2%) 3 (0.3%) 23 (2.1%)
Vomiting 26 (1.1%) 14 (1.3%) 27 (2.5%)
Hypokalemia 25 (1.1%) 2 (0.2%) 23 (2.1%)
Bruise 24 (1.0%) 24 (2.2%) 14 (1.3%)
Anxiety 18 (0.8%) 8 (0.7%) 22 (2.0%)
Hepatic function abnormal 10 (0.4%) 14 (1.3%) 24 (2.2%)
Hepatic enzymes increased 7 (0.3%) 52 (4.7%) 30 (2.7%)
SGPT increased 7 (0.3%) 47 (4.3%) 8 (0.7%)
SGOT increased 4 (0.2%) 31 (2.8%) 3 (0.3%)
NDA 21-345/S-010
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OVERDOSAGE
Symptoms/Treatment: There is no known antidote for ARIXTRA Injection. Overdose of
ARIXTRA may lead to hemorrhagic complications. Overdosage associated with bleeding
complications should lead to treatment discontinuation and initiation of appropriate therapy.
Data obtained in patients undergoing chronic intermittent hemodialysis suggest that ARIXTRA
clearance can increase by 20% during hemodialysis.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

ARIXTRA Injection is administered by subcutaneous injection once daily.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Hip Fracture, or Hip or Knee
Replacement Surgeries: In patients undergoing hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee replacement
surgery, the recommended dose of ARIXTRA is 2.5 mg administered by subcutaneous injection once
daily. After hemostasis has been established, the initial dose should be given 6 to 8 hours after surgery.
Administration before 6 hours after surgery has been associated with an increased risk of major
bleeding. The usual duration of administration is 5 to 9 days, and up to 11 days administration has been
tolerated. In patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, an extended prophylaxis course of up to
24 additional days is recommended. In patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, a total of 32 days
(peri-operative and extended prophylaxis) has been tolerated. (See CLINICAL STUDIES,
WARNINGS: Laboratory Testing and ADVERSE REACTIONS.)
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Following Abdominal Surgery: In patients undergoing
abdominal surgery, the recommended dose of ARIXTRA is 2.5 mg administered by subcutaneous
injection once daily. After hemostasis has been established, the initial dose should be given 6 to
8 hours after surgery. Administration before 6 hours after surgery has been associated with an
increased risk of major bleeding. The usual duration of administration is 5 to 9 days, and up to 10 days
of ARIXTRA injection has been administered.
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Treatment: In patients with acute
symptomatic DVT and in patients with acute symptomatic PE the recommended dose of ARIXTRA is
5 mg (body weight <50 kg), 7.5 mg (body weight 50-100 kg) or 10 mg (body weight >100 kg) by
subcutaneous injection once daily (ARIXTRA treatment regimen). ARIXTRA injection treatment
should be continued for a least 5 days and until a therapeutic oral anticoagulant effect is established
(INR 2.0 to 3.0). Concomitant treatment with warfarin sodium should be initiated as soon as possible,
usually within 72 hours. The usual duration of administration of ARIXTRA is 5 to 9 days; up to
26 days of ARIXTRA injection has been administered. (See CLINICAL STUDIES, WARNINGS:
Laboratory Testing and ADVERSE REACTIONS.)

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration
prior to administration.
ARIXTRA Injection is provided in a single dose, prefilled syringe affixed with an automatic
needle protection system. ARIXTRA is administered by subcutaneous injection. It must not be
administered by intramuscular injections. ARIXTRA is intended for use under a physician’s guidance.
Patients may self-inject only if their physician determines that it is appropriate and with medical
follow-up as necessary. Proper training in subcutaneous injection technique should be provided.
To avoid the loss of drug when using the pre-filled syringe, do not expel the air bubble from the
syringe before the injection. Administration should be made in the fatty tissue, alternating injection
sites (e.g., between the left and right anterolateral or the left and right posterolateral abdominal wall).
To administer ARIXTRA:
1. Wipe the surface of the injection site with an alcohol swab.
NDA 21-345/S-010
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2. Twist the plunger cap and remove it.

3. Hold the syringe with either hand and use your other hand to twist the rigid needle
guard (covers the needle) counter-clockwise. Pull the rigid needle guard straight off the
needle.

4. Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site between your thumb and forefinger and hold it
throughout the injection.
5. Hold the syringe with your thumb on the top pad of the plunger rod and your next 2
fingers on the finger grips on the syringe barrel. Pay attention to avoid sticking yourself
with the exposed needle.
NDA 21-345/S-010
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6. Insert the full length of the syringe needle perpendicularly into the skin fold held
between the thumb and forefinger.

7. Push the plunger rod firmly with your thumb as far as it will go. This will ensure you
have injected all the contents of the syringe.

8. When you have injected all the contents of the syringe, the plunger should be released.
The plunger will then rise automatically while the needle withdraws from the skin and
retracts into the security sleeve. Discard the syringe into the sharps container without
replacing the rigid needle guard.
9. You will know that the syringe has worked when:
• The needle is pulled back into the security sleeve and the white safety indicator
appears above the blue upper body.
• You may also hear or feel a soft click when the plunger rod is released fully.

HOW SUPPLIED
ARIXTRA Injection is available in the following strengths and package sizes:
2.5 mg ARIXTRA in 0.5 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch
needle with a blue automatic needle protection system
NDC 0007-3230-11 10 Single Unit Syringes
5 mg ARIXTRA in 0.4 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch
needle with an orange automatic needle protection system
NDC 0007-3232-11 10 Single Unit Syringes
7.5 mg ARIXTRA in 0.6 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch
needle with a magenta automatic needle protection system
NDC 0007-3234-11 10 Single Unit Syringes
10 mg ARIXTRA in 0.8 mL single dose prefilled syringe, affixed with a 27-gauge x ½-inch
needle with a violet automatic needle protection system
NDC 0007-3236-11 10 Single Unit Syringes
NDA 21-345/S-010
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Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15–30°C (59–86°F) [See USP Controlled Room
Temperature].
Keep out of the reach of children.

Distributed by GlaxoSmithKline
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

ARIXTRA is a registered trademark of GlaxoSmithKline.

©YEAR, GlaxoSmithKline. All rights reserved.

Month YEAR RL-XXXX