exxua
Exxua (Gepirone Hydrochloride) is a medication used to treat Major Depressive Disorder.
Gepirone Hydrochloride · by Fabre Kramer
Key facts
- Active ingredient
- Gepirone Hydrochloride
- Form
- Tablet, extended release
- Strength
- Gepirone Hydrochloride EQ 18.2MG Base · Gepirone Hydrochloride EQ 36.3MG Base · Gepirone Hydrochloride EQ 54.5MG Base · Gepirone Hydrochloride EQ 72.6MG Base
- Type
- Prescription (Rx)
- Brand or generic
- Brand-name
- May treat
- major depressive disorder
- Manufacturer
- Fabre Kramer
- FDA application
- NDA021164
- FDA boxed warning
- Yes — see the boxed warning
What is Exxua?
From the FDA label:EXXUA contains gepirone, in the salt form as gepirone hydrochloride (HCl). The chemical name is 2,6- piperidinedione,4,4-dimethyl-1-[4-[4-(2-pyrimidinyl)-1-piperazinyl]butyl]-, monohydrochloride. The molecular weight of gepirone HCl is 395.93 and the structural formula is as follows: Gepirone HCl is a white to off-white crystalline powder, which is readily soluble in water. EXXUA is supplied as extended-release tablets for oral administration. Each extended-release tablet contains 18.2 mg, 36.3 mg, 54.5 mg, or 72.6 mg, gepirone equivalent to 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, or 80 mg of gepirone HCl respectively. The extended-release tablets also contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, Hypromellose, iron oxide (red and/or yellow colorants), magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose. Chemical Structure
How to use
Correct electrolyte abnormalities and perform electrocardiogram (ECG) prior to initiating treatment with EXXUA. Do not initiate EXXUA if QTc is > 450 msec ( 2.1 ). Perform ECGs during dosage titration and periodically during treatment ( 2.1 ). The recommended starting dose is 18.2 mg administered orally once daily with food at approximately the same time each day ( 2.2 , 2.3 ). Depending on clinical response and tolerability, the dosage may be increased to 36.3 mg once daily on Day 4. Dosage may be further titrated to 54.5 mg once daily after Day 7 and to 72.6 mg once daily after an additional week ( 2.3 ). Geriatric patients: Recommended starting dosage is 18.2 mg once daily. Dosage may be increased to 36.3 mg after 7 days ( 2.4 ). Renal Impairment (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min): Recommended starting dosage is 18.2 mg once daily. Dosage may be increased to 36.3 mg once daily after 7 days ( 2.5 , 8.6 ). Moderate Hepatic Impairment (Child-Pugh B): Dosage may be increased to 36.3 mg once daily after 7 days ( 2.6 , 8.7 ). Adjust EXXUA dose by 50% when a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor is administered ( 2.7 ). 2.1 Important Recommendations Prior to Initiating and During Treatment with EXXUA Electrocardiogram and Electrolyte Monitoring Correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to initiating EXXUA. In patients with electrolyte abnormalities, or who are receiving diuretics or…
Side effects
The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Activation of Mania or Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence of ≥ 5% and at least twice incidence of placebo) were dizziness, nausea, insomnia, abdominal pain, and dyspepsia ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aytu Therapeutics at 1-855-298-8246 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience 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. During premarketing assessment, multiple doses of EXXUA were administered to 1,976 adult patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in controlled phase 2 and 3 clinical studies, including 1,639 patients in placebo-controlled phase 2 and 3 trials in MDD, with 237 patients exposed for over six months. The population treated with EXXUA in the pooled placebo-controlled studies ranged from 15 to 78 years of age, was 34%…
FDA Boxed Warning (the FDA’s most serious warning)
Boxed (black-box) warning — from the FDA label
WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 ) ] . EXXUA is not approved for use in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients taking antidepressants. Closely monitor for worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors ( 5.1 ). EXXUA is not approved for use in pediatric patients ( 8.4 ).
Warnings
Important safety information
QT Interval Prolongation: EXXUA prolongs the QTc. Correct electrolyte abnormalities. Perform ECGs prior to initiation, during dose titration, and periodically during treatment with EXXUA. Monitor ECGs more frequently when EXXUA is used concomitantly with drugs known to prolong the QT interval, in patients who develop QTc ≥ 450 msec during treatment or are at significant risk of developing torsade de pointes. Do not escalate dosage if QTc > 450 msec ( 2.1 , 5.2 , 7 ). Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents. If serotonin syndrome occurs, discontinue EXXUA and initiate supportive measures ( 5.3 ). Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Screen patients for bipolar disorder ( 5.4 ). 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and other antidepressant classes) that included approximately 77,000 adult patients, and 4,500 pediatric patients, the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in antidepressant-treated patients aged 24 years and younger was greater than in placebo-treated patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among drugs, but there was an increased risk identified in young patients for most drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors across the different indications, with the highest incidence in patients with MDD. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1000 patients treated are provided in Table 1 . Table 1 Risk Differences of the Number of Patients with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in the Pooled Placebo-Controlled Trials of Antidepressants in Pediatric EXXUA is not approved for use in pediatric patients. and Adult Patients Age Range Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Patients with Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors per 1000 Patients Treated Increases Compared to Placebo < 18 years old 14 additional patients 18-24 years old 5 additional patients Decreases Compared to Placebo 25-64 years old 1 fewer patient ≥ 65 years old 6 fewer patients It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with MDD that the use of antidepressants can delay the recurrence of depression and that depression itself is a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy, and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the healthcare provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing EXXUA, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 5.2 QT Prolongation EXXUA prolongs the QTc interval [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . EXXUA is contraindicated in patients with congenital long QT syndrome and in patients with severe hepatic impairment or in patients receiving concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors as they increase EXXUA plasma concentrations [see Contraindications (4) , Drug Interactions (7) , and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ] . Do not initiate EXXUA if QTc is > 450 msec at baseline [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and Contraindications (4) ] . Correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to EXXUA initiation. In patients with electrolyte abnormalities, who are receiving diuretics or glucocorticoids, or have a history of hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, also monitor electrolytes during dose titration and periodically during treatment with EXXUA. Perform an ECG prior to EXXUA initiation, during dosage titration, and periodically during treatment. Monitor patients with ECGs more frequently: If EXXUA is used concomitantly with drugs known to prolong the QT interval [ see Drug Interactions (7) ]. In patients who develop QTc ≥450 msec during treatment with EXXUA. Do not escalate the EXXUA dosage if QTcF is > 450 msec [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . In patients with a significant risk of developing torsade de pointes, including those with uncontrolled or significant cardiac disease, recent myocardial infarction, heart failure, unstable angina, bradyarrhythmias, uncontrolled hypertension, high degree atrioventricular block, severe aortic stenosis, or uncontrolled hypothyroidism. Reduce the EXXUA dosage when used concomitantly with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, as they may increase EXXUA concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) and Drug Interactions (7) ] . 5.3 Serotonin Syndrome Concomitant use of EXXUA with SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants may cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition with changes including altered mental status, hypertension, restlessness, myoclonus, hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, diaphoresis, shivering, and tremor [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . The concomitant use of EXXUA with MAOIs is contraindicated. In addition, do not initiate EXXUA in a patient being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. If it is necessary to initiate treatment with an MAOI such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue in a patient taking EXXUA discontinue EXXUA before initiating treatment with the MAOI [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7) ] . If concomitant use of EXXUA with other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome and monitor for symptoms. Discontinue EXXUA and/or concomitant serotonergic drug immediately if the above symptoms occur and initiate supportive symptomatic treatment. 5.4 Activation of Mania or Hypomania Antidepressant treatment can precipitate a manic, mixed, or hypomanic manic episode. The risk appears to be increased in patients with bipolar disorder or who have risk factors for bipolar disorder. Prior to initiating treatment with EXXUA, screen patients for a history of bipolar disorder and the presence of risk factors for bipolar disorder (e.g., family history of bipolar disorder, suicide, or depression) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. EXXUA is not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.
Who should not take Exxua
EXXUA is contraindicated in patients: with known hypersensitivity to gepirone or components of EXXUA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . with prolonged QTc interval > 450 msec at baseline [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. with congenital long QT syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. receiving concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7) ]. with severe hepatic impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ]. taking, or within 14 days of stopping, MAOIs due to the risk of serious and possibly fatal drug interactions, including hypertensive crisis and serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Drug Interactions (7) ] . Starting EXXUA in a patient treated with reversible MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated. Known hypersensitivity to gepirone or components of EXXUA ( 4 ). Prolonged QTc interval > 450 msec at baseline ( 4 ). Congenital long QT syndrome ( 4 ). Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors ( 4 ). Severe hepatic impairment ( 4 ). Use with an MAOI or within 14 days of stopping treatment with EXXUA. Do not use EXXUA within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI ( 4 ).
Overdose — what happens if you take too much
In clinical studies, cases of acute ingestions up to 454 mg (6.25 times the maximum recommended dose) of EXXUA alone or in combination with other drugs, were reported. Signs and symptoms reported with overdose of EXXUA at doses up to 454 mg included vomiting and transient incomplete bundle branch block; an unknown dose of EXXUA produced altered level of consciousness and a 60-second convulsion. No specific antidotes for EXXUA are known. Consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations.
U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.
Interactions
Table 3 displays clinically important drug interactions with EXXUA. Table 3 Clinically Important Drug Interactions with EXXUA CYP3A4 Inhibitors Clinical Impact Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors Concomitant use of EXXUA with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increases EXXUA exposure by ~ 5-fold [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors Concomitant use with a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases EXXUA exposure by ~ 2.6-fold [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Intervention Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors EXXUA is contraindicated in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) , Contraindications (4) , and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors If EXXUA is used with a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce the dosage of EXXUA [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact Concomitant use of EXXUA with MAOIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention EXXUA is contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs, including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue or in patients who have taken MAOIs within the preceding 14 days. Allow at least 14 days after stopping EXXUA before starting an MAOI [see Dosage and Administration (2.8) , Contraindications (4) , and Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Drugs that Prolong the QTc Interval Clinical Impact Concomitant use of drugs that prolong the QTc interval may add to the QTc prolonging effects of EXXUA and increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Intervention Monitor patients with ECGs more frequently if EXXUA is administered with other drugs known to prolong QT interval [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Impact Concomitant use of EXXUA with a strong CYP3A4 inducer reduces EXXUA exposure by 20- to 29-fold [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Intervention Avoid concomitant use of EXXUA in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inducers. Other Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact Concomitant use of EXXUA and serotonergic drugs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Monitor for symptoms of serotonin syndrome when EXXUA is used concomitantly with other drugs that may affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter systems. If serotonin syndrome occurs, consider discontinuation of EXXUA and/or concomitant serotonergic drug [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Strong CYP3A4 inducers: Reduces EXXUA exposure. Avoid concomitant use ( 7 ).
May treat (source: NIH RxClass)
Dosage forms
Tablet, extended release
The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.
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Frequently asked questions
- What does Exxua treat?
- Exxua (Gepirone Hydrochloride) may be used to treat major depressive disorder, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
- Is there a coupon or discount for Exxua?
- pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Exxua. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
- Who makes Exxua?
- Exxua is marketed by Fabre Kramer. You can see Fabre Kramer's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
- Is Exxua a brand-name or generic drug?
- Exxua is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Gepirone Hydrochloride.
- Is Exxua available over the counter?
- No. Exxua is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
- What forms does Exxua come in?
- Exxua is currently marketed as tablet, extended release, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
- Is Exxua FDA-registered?
- Exxua is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA021164. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
- Is Exxua safe?
- There's no single safe-or-not verdict, and we don't yet have a composite recall-safety score for Exxua. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings below, and always consult a licensed professional.
- What are the side effects of Exxua?
- Exxua's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precauti… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.
Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.
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