Introduction
Besponsa is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredients Inotuzumab Ozogamacin. It is available under the brand name Besponsa. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). It is primarily used for the treatment of certain types of leukemia.
Uses
Besponsa is prescribed for the treatment of relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults. It is used when other treatments have not been effective or have stopped working.
Dosage and Administration
Besponsa is administered by a healthcare professional through a vein (intravenous infusion). The dosage and administration schedule may vary depending on the individual patient’s condition and response to treatment. Follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
Mechanism of Action
The active ingredient in Besponsa, Inotuzumab Ozogamacin, works by targeting and binding to CD22, a protein found on the surface of leukemia cells. Once bound, the medication is internalized by the cells, leading to the release of a cytotoxic agent. This agent then damages the leukemia cells, inhibiting their growth and causing them to undergo cell death.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include nausea, fever, decreased appetite, fatigue, headache, and constipation. Report these side effects to your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Serious side effects may occur in some patients. These can include severe infusion-related reactions, liver problems, low platelet count, infections, and tumor lysis syndrome. If you experience any severe or concerning side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Besponsa may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting treatment with Besponsa. Some medications may interact with Besponsa, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or affecting the effectiveness of either medication.
Precautions
Before using Besponsa, inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are currently taking. This medication may not be suitable for everyone, and certain precautions should be taken.
Besponsa is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe or life-threatening allergic reactions to Inotuzumab Ozogamacin or any of the other ingredients in the formulation.
Note that Besponsa may cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy. It is recommended to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 8 months after the last dose of Besponsa.
Storage
Besponsa should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original packaging until it is ready to be used. Protect it from light and keep it out of the reach of children.
Patient Tips
- Follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
- Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.
- Take steps to prevent infections, such as practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting treatment with Besponsa.
- Store the medication properly in the refrigerator and protect it from light.
- Keep appointments for follow-up visits and laboratory tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.
References
- Akazawa R, Kato I, Kubota H, Isobe K, Masuno H, Mikami M, Shiota M, Kouzuki K, Kawabata N, Tanaka K, Saida S, Umeda K, Hiramatsu H, Adachi S, Takita J. Inotuzumabozogamicin is an effective treatment for CD22-positive acute undifferentiated leukemia: A case report. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2021 May;68(5):e28976. doi: 10.1002/pbc.28976. Epub 2021 Feb 22. [Accessed 4 Jun. 2024] Available at:
- Shor B, Gerber HP, Sapra P. Preclinical and clinical development of inotuzumab-ozogamicin in hematological malignancies. Mol Immunol. 2015 Oct;67(2 Pt A):107-16. doi: 10.1016/j.molimm.2014.09.014. Epub 2014 Oct 7. [Accessed 27 Jun. 2024] Available at:
- Ampatzidou M, Kattamis A, Baka M, Paterakis G, Anastasiou T, Tzanoudaki M, Kaisari A, Avgerinou G, Doganis D, Papadakis V, Kitra V, Polychronopoulou S. Insights from the Greek experience of the use of Blinatumomab in pediatric relapsed and refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients. Neoplasma. 2020 Nov;67(6):1424-1430. doi: 10.4149/neo_2020_200128N93. Epub 2020 Jul 23. [Accessed 29 Jun. 2024] Available at:
- Reinert J, Beitzen-Heineke A, Wethmar K, Stelljes M, Fiedler W, Schwartz S. Loss of CD22 expression and expansion of a CD22dim subpopulation in adults with relapsed/refractory B-lymphoblastic leukaemia after treatment with Inotuzumab-Ozogamicin. Ann Hematol. 2021 Nov;100(11):2727-2732. doi: 10.1007/s00277-021-04601-0. Epub 2021 Jul 31. [Accessed 6 Jun. 2024] Available at:
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