Alemtuzumab
Generic Name: alemtuzumab
Brand Names:
Campath
11 DESCRIPTION Alemtuzumab, a CD52-directed cytolytic antibody, is a recombinant DNA-derived humanized monoclonal antibody (CAMPATH-1H). CAMPATH-1H is an IgG1 kappa antibody with human variable framework and constant regions, and complementarity-determining regions from a murine (rat) monoclonal antibody (CAMPATH-1G). The CAMPATH-1H antibody has an approximate molecular weight of 150 kD.
Overview
11 DESCRIPTION Alemtuzumab, a CD52-directed cytolytic antibody, is a recombinant DNA-derived humanized monoclonal antibody (CAMPATH-1H). CAMPATH-1H is an IgG1 kappa antibody with human variable framework and constant regions, and complementarity-determining regions from a murine (rat) monoclonal antibody (CAMPATH-1G). The CAMPATH-1H antibody has an approximate molecular weight of 150 kD.
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE CAMPATH is indicated as a single agent for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). CAMPATH is a CD52-directed cytolytic antibody indicated as a single agent for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). ( 1 )
Dosage
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administer as an intravenous infusion over 2 hours. ( 2.1 ) Escalate to recommended dose of 30 mg/day three times per week for 12 weeks. ( 2.1 ) Premedicate with oral antihistamine and acetaminophen. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Dosing Schedule and Administration Administer as an intravenous infusion over 2 hours. Do not administer as intravenous push or bolus. Recommended Dosing Regimen Gradually escalate to the maximum recommended single dose of 30 mg. Escalation is required at initiation of dosing or if dosing is held ≥7 days during treatment. Escalation to 30 mg ordinarily can be accomplished in 3 to 7 days. Escalation Strategy: – Administer 3 mg daily until infusion-related reactions are ≤ Grade 2 [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] .
Side Effects
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label: Cytopenias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Infusion-Related Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Immunosuppression/Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Most common adverse reactions (≥10%): cytopenias, infusion-related reactions, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and other infections, nausea, emesis, diarrhea, and insomnia. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Genzyme Corporation at 1-877-4-CAMPATH (1-877-422-6728) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS No formal drug interaction studies have been performed with CAMPATH.
Warnings
WARNING: CYTOPENIAS, INFUSION-RELATED REACTIONS, AND INFECTIONS WARNING: CYTOPENIAS, INFUSION-RELATED REACTIONS, AND INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Serious, including fatal, cytopenias, infusion-related reactions, and infections can occur (5.1–5.3). Limit doses to 30 mg (single) and 90 mg (cumulative weekly); higher doses increase risk of pancytopenia. ( 2.1 ) Escalate dose gradually and monitor patients during infusion. 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Cytopenias : Obtain complete blood counts (CBC) and platelet counts at weekly intervals during therapy and CD4 counts after therapy until recovery to ≥200 cells/µL. Withhold for severe cytopenias. Discontinue for autoimmune or severe hematologic adverse reactions. ( 2.2 , 5.1 ) Immunosuppression/Infections : CAMPATH induces severe and prolonged lymphopenia and increases risk of infection. If a serious infection occurs, withhold treatment until infection resolves. ( 5.3 ) Immunization : Do not administer live viral vaccines to patients who have recently received CAMPATH. ( 5.4 ) 5.1 Cytopenias Severe, including fatal, autoimmune anemia and thrombocytopenia, and prolonged myelosuppression have been reported in patients receiving CAMPATH. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None ( 4 )
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies, CAMPATH may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Available data from published cohort studies in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a CAMPATH-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Alemtuzumab was embryolethal in pregnant huCD52 transgenic mice when administered during organogenesis (see Data ) . Human IgG antibodies are known to cross the placental barrier; therefore, CAMPATH may be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus.
Storage
Store CAMPATH at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. If accidentally frozen, thaw at 2°C to 8°C before administration. Protect from direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alemtuzumab used for?▼
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE CAMPATH is indicated as a single agent for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). CAMPATH is a CD52-directed cytolytic antibody indicated as a single agent for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). ( 1 )
What are the side effects of Alemtuzumab?▼
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label: Cytopenias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Infusion-Related Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Immunosuppression/Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Most common adverse reactions (≥10%): cytopenias, infusion-related reactions, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and other infections, nausea, emesis, diarrhea, and insomnia. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Genzyme Corporation at 1-877-4-CAMPATH (1-877-422-6728) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Can I take Alemtuzumab during pregnancy?▼
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies, CAMPATH may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Available data from published cohort studies in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a CAMPATH-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Alemtuzumab was embryolethal in pregnant huCD52 transgenic mice when administered during organogenesis (see Data ) . Human IgG antibodies are known to cross the placental barrier; therefore, CAMPATH may be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus.
What are the important warnings for Alemtuzumab?▼
WARNING: CYTOPENIAS, INFUSION-RELATED REACTIONS, AND INFECTIONS WARNING: CYTOPENIAS, INFUSION-RELATED REACTIONS, AND INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Serious, including fatal, cytopenias, infusion-related reactions, and infections can occur (5.1–5.3). Limit doses to 30 mg (single) and 90 mg (cumulative weekly); higher doses increase risk of pancytopenia. ( 2.1 ) Escalate dose gradually and monitor patients during infusion. 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Cytopenias : Obtain complete blood counts (CBC) and platelet counts at weekly intervals during therapy and CD4 counts after therapy until recovery to ≥200 cells/µL. Withhold for severe cytopenias. Discontinue for autoimmune or severe hematologic adverse reactions. ( 2.2 , 5.1 ) Immunosuppression/Infections : CAMPATH induces severe and prolonged lymphopenia and increases risk of infection. If a serious infection occurs, withhold treatment until infection resolves. ( 5.3 ) Immunization : Do not administer live viral vaccines to patients who have recently received CAMPATH. ( 5.4 ) 5.1 Cytopenias Severe, including fatal, autoimmune anemia and thrombocytopenia, and prolonged myelosuppression have been reported in patients receiving CAMPATH. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None ( 4 )
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Medical Disclaimer
This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.