Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Alemtuzumab intraven.

Alemtuzumab intraven. Drug Category ALEMTUZUMAB - INJECTABLE

Alemtuzumab intraven. Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. ALEMTUZUMAB - INJECTABLE (uh-LEM-tooze-mob) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Campath WARNING: Alemtuzumab may cause serious, sometimes fatal, side effects including blood disorders (e.g., hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia), allergic reactions, and/or severe infections. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. USES: Alemtuzumab is a protein (monoclonal antibody) used to treat a certain form of leukemia (B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia also known as B-CLL) in patients who have already received and/or have not responded to other cancer chemotherapy drugs (e.g., alkylating agents, fludarabine). HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Because of the increased risk for serious infections while using this product, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to be taken during your treatment. Your doctor may also prescribe other medications (e.g., acetaminophen, diphenhydramine) to be taken 30 minutes before this drug is given. These drugs may help decrease the risk and/or severity of allergic reactions and some side effects. Give this medication by vein (IV) over 2 hours in a saline (NS) or dextrose (D5W) solution exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not give this medication by direct IV injection. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Doses of this drug must be gradually increased to minimize potentially serious side effects. Do not shake this product before or after mixing. Doing so could make this drug ineffective. Gently swirl the mixture. Do not give larger doses or give it more frequently than prescribed because doing so may increase the chance of severe side effects. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist. SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, cough, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, headache, sweating, and/or flu-like symptoms (e.g., chills, muscle aches, runny nose) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: severe muscle stiffness (rigors), persistent sore throat or fever, easy bleeding or bruising, unusual tiredness and weakness, loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, lightheadedness, trouble sleeping, severe trouble breathing, pain (e.g., stomach, bone, back, chest, or muscle pain). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, sores on the mouth/genitals, severe trouble breathing, unusually fast heartbeat, seizures, fainting, decreased hearing, loss of taste, uncontrolled movements (tremor), decrease in amount of urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: This medication is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: any current infection, immune system problems (e.g., HIV positive). Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Because this medication can decrease your immune system function, do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (e.g., oral polio vaccine). Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities that may increase the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended during, and for at least 3 months following treatment with this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), other drugs that affect the immune system (e.g., cyclosporine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe breathing problems and lack of urine. NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood counts,) will be performed to monitor your progress and potential side effects. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose or your dose is stopped, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule. STORAGE: Before mixing, store the product refrigerated between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C) away from light. Do not freeze. After mixing and subsequent dilution with IV fluids, this product should be used within 8 hours. Discard any open or broken ampules. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).