This medication is used to treat a certain type of
cancer (multiple myeloma). Isatuximab belongs to a class of drugs known as
monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer
cells.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using isatuximab and each time you receive
this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor on a
treatment schedule. Follow your doctor's treatment schedule
carefully.
Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of
this drug and within a day afterward. Your doctor may prescribe other
medications before each treatment to help prevent these side effects. Tell
your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such
as nausea, shortness of breath, cough, headache, or chills.
The dosage is based on your weight and response to
treatment.
To get the most benefit, do not miss any doses. To help
you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
See also How to Use section.
Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting may occur. If any of these
effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
People using this medication may have serious side
effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side
effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your
risk.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- easy bruising/bleeding
- unusual tiredness
This medication may lower your ability to fight
infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal)
infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away
if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go
away, fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath).
Some people treated with this medication may rarely get
other cancers. Consult your doctor for more details.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using isatuximab, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- current/recent infection (such as herpes zoster)
Isatuximab can make you more likely to get infections or
may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an
infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles,
flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for
more details.
Tell your health care professional that you are using
isatuximab before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with
people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine
inhaled through the nose).
To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured,
use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid
activities such as contact sports.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using isatuximab. Isatuximab
may harm an unborn baby. Ask about reliable forms of birth control while
using this medication and for 5 months after the last dose. If you become
pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of
this medication.
When isatuximab is used in combination with pomalidomide
or lenalidomide, it must not be used during pregnancy. The combination may
cause harm (possibly death) to an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor for more
details. Females using these medications must use two reliable forms of
birth control. Males using these medications must always use a condom
during sexual activity. If you or your partner become pregnant, or if you
think you or your partner may be pregnant, tell your doctor right
away.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Because of the possible risk to the infant (especially when using with
pomalidomide or lenalidomide), breastfeeding is not recommended while using
this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests
(such as Coombs test), possibly causing false test results during treatment
and for about 6 months after the last dose. Make sure lab personnel and all
your doctors know you use or have used this drug.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count)
should be done before you start using this medication and while you are
using it. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for
more details.
It is important to receive each dose of this medication
as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away
for a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and
will not be stored at home.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical
emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call
1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).