BLINATUMOMAB - INJECTION
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (BLIN-a-TOOM-oh-mab)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Blincyto
GENERIC NAME(S): blinatumomab
Uses
USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of cancer (acute lymphocytic leukemia-ALL). Blinatumomab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
How to use BLINATUMOMAB - INJECTION
HOW TO USE: See also Warning section. Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using blinatumomab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. The dosage and treatment schedule are based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may prescribe other medications (such as dexamethasone) before each treatment to help reduce side effects. Also, your doctor may start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. This medication is given by slow injection (infusion) into a vein as directed by your doctor. A special machine (infusion pump) is used for giving the injection, usually over 4 weeks (28 days), followed by a break (usually 2 weeks) during which you will not be given blinatumomab. After the break, your doctor will decide if you will be given another treatment cycle with this medication. In later treatment cycles, your breaks may be longer (8 weeks). Do not change the settings on the infusion pump since you might get the wrong dose. Ask your health care professional right away if you have any questions about the infusion pump.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
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Faq for BLINATUMOMAB - INJECTION
Blinatumomab is an injectable medication used for the treatment of a certain type of blood cancer called acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Blinatumomab works by activating the patient's own immune system to target and kill cancer cells. It binds to both cancer cells and healthy immune cells, bringing them closer together and allowing the immune cells to recognize and destroy the cancer cells.
Blinatumomab is administered through continuous intravenous infusion (drip) over a 28-day treatment cycle. It is usually given in a hospital or healthcare facility under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Common side effects of Blinatumomab may include fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, itching, swelling, and low blood cell counts. Serious side effects, such as infections and neurological problems, may also occur and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Blinatumomab is typically recommended for patients with minimal residual disease-positive B-cell precursor ALL who have received previous treatment but are still in remission, or for those who have relapsed or refractory disease.
The duration of treatment with Blinatumomab depends on the individual patient's response and tolerability. It may be continued for up to two years in patients who do not experience disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Blinatumomab may increase the risk of infections, neurological problems, and cytokine release syndrome. It is important to closely monitor patients during treatment and take appropriate precautions to manage these risks.
Blinatumomab is classified as category C for use during pregnancy, which means it may cause harm to the fetus. It is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
Blinatumomab may interact with certain medications, including corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before starting Blinatumomab treatment.
Warning
WARNING: Blinatumomab may cause certain serious (sometimes fatal) side effects, including cytokine release syndrome-CRS and infusion reactions. Symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, trouble breathing, skin rash, weakness, or low blood pressure. Blinatumomab can also cause serious brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders with symptoms such as headache, trouble sleeping, seizures, confusion, loss of consciousness, difficulty with swallowing/facial movements, or speech and balance problems. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of these symptoms. You may be given this medication in a hospital or clinic so your doctor can watch for these serious side effects and provide treatment if needed. If you have side effects, your doctor may temporarily stop or slow down your treatment with this medication. Also, your doctor may prescribe other medications before you receive blinatumomab to decrease the risk of side effects.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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