Key facts about Adcetris
What is Adcetris?
Adcetris is the brand name for brentuximab vedotin and is available as an intravenous infusion.
What dosages is Adcetris available in?
Adcetris is available as 50 mg single-dose vial.
What is Adcetris used for?
Adcetris is an antibody-drug conjugate used to treat certain types of lymphoma.
How does Adcetris work?
Adcetris is a CD30-directed antibody and microtubule inhibitor conjugate. It works by targeting and binding to the CD30 protein on cancer cells, such as those in lymphomas. Once attached, the drug is brought into the cancer cell, where it releases a substance that stops the cell from growing and dividing, leading to its death.
How do I take Adcetris?
Your dose of Adcetris is based on your weight, what is being treated, and what other medications you are taking. It is given as an intravenous infusion over 30 minutes.
Is it safe for me to take Adcetris?
Adcetris is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication in the following:
- Concomitant use with bleomycin
Adcetris Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Adcetris:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or pain in hands and feet)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Joint or bone pain
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Fever
- Rash
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
Adcetris Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Adcetris. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Allergic reactions
- Serious infections
- Tumor lysis syndrome
- LIver damage
- Serious skin reactions
- New or worsening breathing problems
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Adcetris
The following medications may interact with Adcetris:
- CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers
Who makes Adcetris?
Pfizer Inc.
Is Adcetris safe in pregnancy?
Adcetris can cause fetal harm. Women receiving this medication to use effective contraception during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose. Males with female sexual partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
