Logos for the IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ patient support program

IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ is a
program for residents
of the
United States and Puerto Rico.

For Patients Arrow

We’re Here to Support Your Eligible Patients During Treatment

Our mission is to help your patients start and stay on therapy by assisting with access and as-needed support.

When You Enroll a Patient, an IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ Representative Will:

  • Call your patient to welcome them and explain their insurance coverage for ZYNYZ® (retifanlimab-dlwr)
  • Assess patient’s eligibility for savings or financial assistance programs,* and help them enroll
  • Explain the additional support and resources available to them during treatment

*Terms and conditions apply. Program terms may change at any time.

Enroll Your Eligible Patients in IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ

Completing the IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ enrollment form takes about
15 minutes. Simply download, complete, and fax it.

Print Enrollment Form
Contact Us

Call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ

at 1-855-452-5234,

Monday through Friday, 8 AM–8 PM ET

Savings, Financial Assistance, and Support Options for ZYNYZ

Eligible patients can receive ZYNYZ for as little as $15, subject to certain limits†

To qualify, patients must:

  • Have commercial healthcare coverage. Patients insured under federal or state government healthcare programs—including Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, TRICARE, or any state medical or pharmaceutical assistance program—are not eligible. Patients without healthcare coverage are also not eligible
  • Be a resident of the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Have a valid prescription for ZYNYZ for an FDA-approved use

†Maximum benefits per claim and per calendar year apply, as may other restrictions. Program benefit applies to medication cost only and does not cover any costs to administer the medication. Uninsured, cash-paying patients are not eligible. Not valid for patients insured through Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and TRICARE or any state medical or pharmaceutical assistance program. Offer valid only for an FDA-approved indication or recognized compendia use for ZYNYZ® (retifanlimab-dlwr). Please see full Patient Terms and Conditions  or call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ at 1-855-452-5234. Update effective as of December 1, 2023.

†Maximum benefits per claim and per calendar year apply, as may other restrictions. Program benefit applies to medication cost only and does not cover any costs to administer the medication. Uninsured, cash-paying patients are not eligible. Not valid for patients insured through Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and TRICARE or any state medical or pharmaceutical assistance program. Offer valid only for an FDA-approved indication or recognized compendia use for ZYNYZ® (retifanlimab-dlwr). Please see full Patient Terms and Conditions  or call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ at 1-855-452-5234. Update effective as of December 1, 2023.

How to enroll your patients:

Option 1. Enroll your patient in IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ.

We’ll do the rest. As part of our introductory call, we inform all newly enrolled patients about the IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ Savings Program and help eligible patients to apply for it. Simply complete and fax the program enrollment form.

Option 2. Complete an application at IncyteCARESsavings.ZYNYZ.com.

Once you submit it, a patient Member ID number is immediately issued. Your patient can begin receiving their ZYNYZ for as little as $15 out-of-pocket cost right away.

For questions about the Savings Program, call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ at 1-855-452-5234, Monday through Friday, 
8 AM–8 PM ET.

 

How to request payment of your Savings Program patient’s coinsurance responsibility

Once your patient has been treated with ZYNYZ, you can submit the documentation for your patient’s coinsurance responsibility either online or by fax. We will match their Savings Program Member ID to the documentation for processing, then issue you a check referencing your patient’s name.

Be sure to submit one of the following proofs of purchase:

  • CMS-1500 claim form
  • or
  • Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from the primary commercial payer showing patient name and date of birth, medication name or NDC, patient responsibility amount, and date of service
Submit Payment Request

or Fax Request and Documentation to 1-855-915-3056.

For questions about this process, call the Help Desk at 1-866-420-7693.

Eligible patients can receive medication free of charge‡

The IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ Patient Assistance Program (PAP) helps eligible patients who do not have medical insurance or who have trouble affording their out-of-pocket costs for ZYNYZ. The program provides free medication, but does not cover the cost to administer infusions. No purchase contingencies or other obligations apply.

To qualify, patients must:

  • Be confirmed as eligible for and enrolled in IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ
  • Be a resident of the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Have a valid prescription for ZYNYZ for an FDA-approved use
  • Meet one of these 3 criteria:

Uninsured

    1. Have no medical coverage and meet household income criteria

Underinsured

    1. text
    2. Have Medicare Part B and meet household income criteria and additional program requirements
    3. Have any other type of healthcare insurance (commercial, Medicaid, etc) but have exhausted or been denied coverage for ZYNYZ and meet household income criteria

How to enroll your patients:

First, you must enroll your patient in IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ.

If you’re not able to provide the patient’s required income information and/or authorizations on the form, a program representative will contact the patient by phone to gather this information.

For questions, call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ at 1-855-452-5234, Monday through Friday, 8 AM–8 PM ET.

‡Terms and conditions apply. Terms of this program may change at any time.

Patients may be eligible for help with medicine, treatment-related travel, and other costs.

If patients do not qualify for our IncyteCARES Savings or Patient Assistance Programs, we may be able to provide information about other organizations or independent foundations that offer support. If you’re eligible, these independent organizations sometimes provide help with medicine costs, transportation or lodging expenses related to treatment, or counseling services offered at reduced or no cost. Eligibility and availability of these programs are determined by the individual organizations.

To learn more:

Call IncyteCARES for ZYNYZ at 1-855-452-5234, Monday through Friday, 8 AM–8 PM ET.

We can give patients contact information and website addresses to find more information on other organizations and independent foundations that may be able to help with specific needs.

Practice Resources: ICD-10 Codes

The following codes are from the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10),
which have been in effect since October 1, 2015.

Body Area Affected by
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

ICD-10 Code
for ZYNYZ

Lip

C4A.0

Eyelid (including canthus)

C4A.1

Eyelid, unspecified

C4A.10

Eyelid, right

C4A.11

Eyelid, left

C4A.12

Ear (and external auricular canal)

C4A.2

Ear, unspecified

C4A.20

Ear, right

C4A.21

Ear, left

C4A.22

Face, unspecified

C4A.3

Face, other part

C4A.30

Nose

C4A.31

Scalp and neck

C4A.4

Upper limb (including shoulder)

C4A.6

Upper limb, unspecified

C4A.60

Body Area Affected by
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

ICD-10 Code
for ZYNYZ

Upper limb, right

C4A.61

Upper limb, left

C4A.62

Lower limb (including hip)

C4A.7

Lower limb, unspecified

C4A.70

Lower limb, right

C4A.71

Lower limb, left

C4A.72

Trunk, unspecified

C4A.5

Anal or perianal skin

C4A.51

Skin of breast

C4A.52

Trunk, other part

C4A.59

Overlapping sites (eg, junction of neck and trunk)

C4A.8

Metastatic MCC or nodal
presentation without known primary

C7B.1

Unspecified site

C4A.9

History of MCC of the skin

Z85.821

MCC unspecified

C4A

Body Area Affected by
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

ICD-10 Code
for ZYNYZ

Lip

C4A.0

Eyelid (including canthus)

C4A.1

Eyelid, unspecified

C4A.10

Eyelid, right

C4A.11

Eyelid, left

C4A.12

Ear (and external auricular canal)

C4A.2

Ear, unspecified

C4A.20

Ear, right

C4A.21

Ear, left

C4A.22

Face, unspecified

C4A.3

Face, other part

C4A.30

Nose

C4A.31

Scalp and neck

C4A.4

Upper limb (including shoulder)

C4A.6

Upper limb, unspecified

C4A.60

Upper limb, right

C4A.61

Upper limb, left

C4A.62

Lower limb (including hip)

C4A.7

Lower limb, unspecified

C4A.70

Lower limb, right

C4A.71

Lower limb, left

C4A.72

Trunk, unspecified

C4A.5

Anal or perianal skin

C4A.51

Skin of breast

C4A.52

Trunk, other part

C4A.59

Overlapping sites (eg, junction of neck and trunk)

C4A.8

Metastatic MCC or nodal presentation without known primary

C7B.1

Unspecified site

C4A.9

History of MCC of the skin

Z85.821

MCC unspecified

C4A

Incyte has provided these codes as background information. They are some of the available ICD-10-CM codes that relate to this disease state. They are not intended to encourage or address the use of any specific ICD-10-CM codes for individual patients. Using the codes provided does not guarantee or support payment, coverage, or reimbursement decisions.

For more information about ICD-10 codes, visit CMS.gov.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ZYNYZ is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1)–blocking antibody indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced Merkel cell carcinoma.

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed may not be inclusive of all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated reactions.

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, they can also manifest after discontinuation of PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Immune-mediated adverse reactions affecting more than one body system can occur simultaneously.

Early identification and management of immune‐mediated adverse reactions are essential to ensure safe use of PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.

Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity. In general, if ZYNYZ requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1-2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to ≤ Grade 1. Upon improvement to ≤ Grade 1, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroids.

Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic steroids (e.g., endocrinopathies and dermatologic reactions) are discussed subsequently.

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. In patients treated with other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, the incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation.

Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3% (13/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including 1 (0.2%) patient with a fatal pneumonitis, Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.4%). Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 77% (10/13) of patients with pneumonitis. Pneumonitis resolved in 10 of the 13 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for pneumonitis, 3 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of pneumonitis.

Immune-Mediated Colitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated colitis. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation have occurred in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis treated with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies.

Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.6% (7/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (0.2%), and Grade 2 (0.7%). Colitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 71% (5/7) of patients. Colitis resolved in 4 of the 7 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for colitis, 1 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; this patient did not have recurrence of colitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 3% (13/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (2.3%), and Grade 2 (0.5%). Hepatitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1.4% of patients and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 85% (11/13) of patients. Hepatitis resolved in 6 of the 13 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for hepatitis, 2 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of hepatitis.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

Adrenal Insufficiency

ZYNYZ can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For ≥ Grade 2 adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment per institutional guidelines, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.7% (3/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (0.5%) and Grade 2 (0.2%). Adrenal insufficiency did not lead to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ. ZYNYZ was withheld for 1 patient with adrenal insufficiency. All patients required systemic corticosteroids. Adrenal insufficiency resolved in 1 of the 3 patients.

Hypophysitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field cuts. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Hypophysitis occurred in 0.5% (2/440, both Grade 2) of patients receiving ZYNYZ. No patients discontinued or withheld ZYNYZ due to hypophysitis. All patients required systemic steroids. Hypophysitis resolved in 1 of the 2 patients.

Thyroid Disorders

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement or medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Thyroiditis occurred in 0.7% (3/440, all Grade 1) of patients receiving ZYNYZ. No patients discontinued or withheld ZYNYZ due to thyroiditis. Thyroiditis resolved in 1 of the 3 patients.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurred in 10% (42/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 2 (4.8%). No patients discontinued ZYNYZ due to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.5% of patients. Systemic corticosteroids were required for 1 patient and 79% (33/42) of patients received endocrine therapy.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurred in 6% (24/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 2 (2.5%). No patients discontinued ZYNYZ due to hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient. Systemic corticosteroids were required for 13% (3/24) of patients and 46% (11/24) of patients received endocrine therapy.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Which Can Present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. Withhold ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in 0.2% (1/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions. Type 1 diabetes mellitus led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient. This event led to ZYNYZ being withheld and did not lead to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ. The patient received insulin.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 1.6% (7/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.5%), Grade 3 (0.7%), and Grade 2 (0.5%). Nephritis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients and withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 57% (4/7) of patients. Nephritis resolved in 3 of the 7 patients. The 1 patient in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for immune-mediated nephritis had ZYNYZ reinitiated after symptom improvement and did not have recurrence of immune-mediated nephritis.

Immune-Mediated Dermatologic Adverse Reactions

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated rash or dermatitis. Bullous and exfoliative dermatitis, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, has occurred with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-exfoliative rashes. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Immune-mediated skin reactions occurred in 8% (36/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (1.1%) and Grade 2 (7%). Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 2.3% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 25% (9/36) of patients. Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions resolved in 75% (27/36) of patients. Of the 10 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions, 7 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of < 1% in 440 patients who received ZYNYZ or were reported with the use of other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, including severe or fatal cases.

Cardiac/vascular: myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis

Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis, to include increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis

Musculoskeletal: myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis (and associated sequelae, including renal failure), arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica

Neurological: meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barré syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy

Ocular: uveitis, iritis, and other ocular inflammatory toxicities. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment to include blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada–like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.

Endocrine: hypoparathyroidism

Other (Hematologic/Immune): hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, solid organ transplant rejection.

Infusion-Related Reactions

A severe infusion-related reaction (Grade 3) occurred in 1 (0.2%) of 440 patients receiving ZYNYZ. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ based on severity of reaction. Consider premedication with an antipyretic and/or an antihistamine for patients who have had previous systemic reactions to infusions of therapeutic proteins.

Complications of Allogeneic HSCT

Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody. Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause). These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT.

Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on its mechanism of action, ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Animal studies have demonstrated that inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can lead to increased risk of immune-mediated rejection of the developing fetus, resulting in fetal death. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ZYNYZ and for 4 months after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

The safety of ZYNYZ was evaluated in 105 patients enrolled in the POD1UM-201 trial with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced MCC.

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 22% of patients receiving ZYNYZ. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (≥ 2% of patients) were fatigue, arrhythmia, and pneumonitis.

Permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ due to an adverse reaction occurred in 11% of patients. These included asthenia, atrial fibrillation, concomitant disease progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, demyelinating polyneuropathy, eosinophilic fasciitis, increased transaminases, infusion-related reaction, lung disorder, pancreatitis, polyarthritis, and radiculopathy (1 patient each).

Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 25% of patients who received ZYNYZ. Adverse reactions or laboratory abnormalities that required dosage interruption in ≥ 2% of patients who received ZYNYZ were increased transaminases, increased lipase, increased amylase, pneumonitis, and pyrexia.

The most common (≥ 10%) adverse reactions that occurred in patients receiving ZYNYZ were fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, pruritus, diarrhea, rash, pyrexia, and nausea.

Specific Populations

Based on its mechanism of action, ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data on the use of ZYNYZ in pregnant women. Human IgG4 immunoglobulins are known to cross the placenta; therefore, retifanlimab-dlwr has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus.

There is no information regarding the presence of retifanlimab-dlwr in human milk, or its effects on the breastfed child or on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of ZYNYZ.

ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating ZYNYZ.

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ZYNYZ and for 4 months after the last dose.

The safety and effectiveness of ZYNYZ have not been established in pediatric patients.

Of the 65 patients with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced MCC treated with ZYNYZ, 79% were ≥ 65 years, and 37% were ≥ 75 years. Clinical studies of ZYNYZ did not include sufficient numbers of younger adult patients to determine if patients ≥ 65 years of age respond differently than younger adult patients.

You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for ZYNYZ for additional Important Safety Information.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

ZYNYZ is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1)–blocking antibody indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced Merkel cell carcinoma.

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed may not be inclusive of all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated reactions.

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, they can also manifest after discontinuation of PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Immune-mediated adverse reactions affecting more than one body system can occur simultaneously.

Early identification and management of immune‐mediated adverse reactions are essential to ensure safe use of PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.

Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity. In general, if ZYNYZ requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1-2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to ≤ Grade 1. Upon improvement to ≤ Grade 1, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroids.

Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic steroids (e.g., endocrinopathies and dermatologic reactions) are discussed subsequently.

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. In patients treated with other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, the incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation.

Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3% (13/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including 1 (0.2%) patient with a fatal pneumonitis, Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.4%). Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 77% (10/13) of patients with pneumonitis. Pneumonitis resolved in 10 of the 13 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for pneumonitis, 3 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of pneumonitis.

Immune-Mediated Colitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated colitis. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation have occurred in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis treated with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies.

Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.6% (7/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (0.2%), and Grade 2 (0.7%). Colitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 71% (5/7) of patients. Colitis resolved in 4 of the 7 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for colitis, 1 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; this patient did not have recurrence of colitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 3% (13/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.2%), Grade 3 (2.3%), and Grade 2 (0.5%). Hepatitis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1.4% of patients and withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 85% (11/13) of patients. Hepatitis resolved in 6 of the 13 patients. Of the 4 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for hepatitis, 2 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of hepatitis.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

Adrenal Insufficiency

ZYNYZ can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For ≥ Grade 2 adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment per institutional guidelines, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.7% (3/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (0.5%) and Grade 2 (0.2%). Adrenal insufficiency did not lead to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ. ZYNYZ was withheld for 1 patient with adrenal insufficiency. All patients required systemic corticosteroids. Adrenal insufficiency resolved in 1 of the 3 patients.

Hypophysitis

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field cuts. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Hypophysitis occurred in 0.5% (2/440, both Grade 2) of patients receiving ZYNYZ. No patients discontinued or withheld ZYNYZ due to hypophysitis. All patients required systemic steroids. Hypophysitis resolved in 1 of the 2 patients.

Thyroid Disorders

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement or medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Thyroiditis occurred in 0.7% (3/440, all Grade 1) of patients receiving ZYNYZ. No patients discontinued or withheld ZYNYZ due to thyroiditis. Thyroiditis resolved in 1 of the 3 patients.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurred in 10% (42/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 2 (4.8%). No patients discontinued ZYNYZ due to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 0.5% of patients. Systemic corticosteroids were required for 1 patient and 79% (33/42) of patients received endocrine therapy.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurred in 6% (24/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 2 (2.5%). No patients discontinued ZYNYZ due to hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient. Systemic corticosteroids were required for 13% (3/24) of patients and 46% (11/24) of patients received endocrine therapy.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Which Can Present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. Withhold ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in 0.2% (1/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions. Type 1 diabetes mellitus led to withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient. This event led to ZYNYZ being withheld and did not lead to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ. The patient received insulin.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 1.6% (7/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 4 (0.5%), Grade 3 (0.7%), and Grade 2 (0.5%). Nephritis led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 0.9% of patients and withholding of ZYNYZ in 1 patient.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 57% (4/7) of patients. Nephritis resolved in 3 of the 7 patients. The 1 patient in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for immune-mediated nephritis had ZYNYZ reinitiated after symptom improvement and did not have recurrence of immune-mediated nephritis.

Immune-Mediated Dermatologic Adverse Reactions

ZYNYZ can cause immune-mediated rash or dermatitis. Bullous and exfoliative dermatitis, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, has occurred with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-exfoliative rashes. Withhold or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ depending on severity.

Immune-mediated skin reactions occurred in 8% (36/440) of patients receiving ZYNYZ, including Grade 3 (1.1%) and Grade 2 (7%). Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions led to permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ in 1 patient and withholding of ZYNYZ in 2.3% of patients.

Systemic corticosteroids were required in 25% (9/36) of patients. Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions resolved in 75% (27/36) of patients. Of the 10 patients in whom ZYNYZ was withheld for immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions, 7 reinitiated ZYNYZ after symptom improvement; of these, 1 had recurrence of immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of < 1% in 440 patients who received ZYNYZ or were reported with the use of other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, including severe or fatal cases.

Cardiac/vascular: myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis

Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis, to include increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis

Musculoskeletal: myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis (and associated sequelae, including renal failure), arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica

Neurological: meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barré syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy

Ocular: uveitis, iritis, and other ocular inflammatory toxicities. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment to include blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada–like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.

Endocrine: hypoparathyroidism

Other (Hematologic/Immune): hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, solid organ transplant rejection.

Infusion-Related Reactions

A severe infusion-related reaction (Grade 3) occurred in 1 (0.2%) of 440 patients receiving ZYNYZ. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion or permanently discontinue ZYNYZ based on severity of reaction. Consider premedication with an antipyretic and/or an antihistamine for patients who have had previous systemic reactions to infusions of therapeutic proteins.

Complications of Allogeneic HSCT

Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody. Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause). These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT.

Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on its mechanism of action, ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Animal studies have demonstrated that inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can lead to increased risk of immune-mediated rejection of the developing fetus, resulting in fetal death. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ZYNYZ and for 4 months after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

The safety of ZYNYZ was evaluated in 105 patients enrolled in the POD1UM-201 trial with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced MCC.

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 22% of patients receiving ZYNYZ. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (≥ 2% of patients) were fatigue, arrhythmia, and pneumonitis.

Permanent discontinuation of ZYNYZ due to an adverse reaction occurred in 11% of patients. These included asthenia, atrial fibrillation, concomitant disease progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, demyelinating polyneuropathy, eosinophilic fasciitis, increased transaminases, infusion-related reaction, lung disorder, pancreatitis, polyarthritis, and radiculopathy (1 patient each).

Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 25% of patients who received ZYNYZ. Adverse reactions or laboratory abnormalities that required dosage interruption in ≥ 2% of patients who received ZYNYZ were increased transaminases, increased lipase, increased amylase, pneumonitis, and pyrexia.

The most common (≥ 10%) adverse reactions that occurred in patients receiving ZYNYZ were fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, pruritus, diarrhea, rash, pyrexia, and nausea.

Specific Populations

Based on its mechanism of action, ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data on the use of ZYNYZ in pregnant women. Human IgG4 immunoglobulins are known to cross the placenta; therefore, retifanlimab-dlwr has the potential to be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus.

There is no information regarding the presence of retifanlimab-dlwr in human milk, or its effects on the breastfed child or on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of ZYNYZ.

ZYNYZ can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating ZYNYZ.

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ZYNYZ and for 4 months after the last dose.

The safety and effectiveness of ZYNYZ have not been established in pediatric patients.

Of the 65 patients with metastatic or recurrent locally advanced MCC treated with ZYNYZ, 79% were ≥ 65 years, and 37% were ≥ 75 years. Clinical studies of ZYNYZ did not include sufficient numbers of younger adult patients to determine if patients ≥ 65 years of age respond differently than younger adult patients.

You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for ZYNYZ for additional Important Safety Information.