When you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, the doctor will probably talk about new medications when explaining the condition. Maybe those names sound a little strange and complicated to you. That's very common. Today we're going to talk about a special drug that is used to treat such cancers and has shown successful results. That's Dostarlimab.
What is Dostarlimab?
Simply put, Dostarlimab is a special drug that helps our own immune system fight cancer cells. These are called `monoclonal antibodies` . Think of it like our body has a defense system, the immune system. Sometimes cancer cells are very clever at hiding from this defense system. What Dostarlimab does is help our immune system recognize those hidden cancer cells and attack them.
This medicine is mainly recommended by doctors as a treatment for endometrial cancer , as well as some other types of cancer. This medicine is also known in the market as Jemperli .
Things you should definitely tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important to tell your doctor about your complete health history before starting treatment with Dostarlimab. Be sure to tell your doctor about any of the following conditions:
- If you have previously had or are planning to have an allogeneic stem cell transplant.
- If you have any immune system problems or a weakened immune system .
- If you have lung or breathing disease .
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Dostarlimab or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant , or thinking about getting pregnant.
- If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child .
Based on this information, your doctor will be able to develop the most appropriate and safest treatment plan for you.
How is the Dostarlimab vaccine given?
This medicine is given as an infusion into a vein , just like a saline solution. This must be done in a hospital or clinic by a trained health professional.
Before each treatment session, you will be given a special leaflet (`MedGuide`) with information about this medicine. It is important to read and understand it carefully each time.
Important note: If you suspect that you have taken an overdose of this medicine (which is unlikely as it is given in a hospital setting), call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Also, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others under any circumstances.
What do you do if you miss a dose of medication?
It is very important to receive this treatment on a scheduled schedule. Therefore, do not skip the dates given by the doctor. If for some reason you are unable to go on the scheduled date, call your doctor or the hospital immediately and inform them.
Things to be especially careful about during treatment
Your medical team will monitor you closely while you are taking this medication. You will also need to have regular blood tests (blood work) to monitor the effects of the treatment and how it is affecting your body.
In the meantime, there is something you must know and adhere to.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 4 months after stopping treatment. This medicine can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Also, avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 4 months after stopping treatment. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
As with any medicine, Dostarlimab can cause some side effects. Some of these should be reported immediately, while others are less serious. These are clearly separated in the table below.
| Side effect | Description and symptoms |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor or hospital immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Infusion reactions | Dizziness, fainting, flushing, wheezing or difficulty breathing. |
| Liver injury | Dark yellow/brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain in the upper right part of the stomach, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue. |
| Kidney injury | Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine you pass. |
| Other serious symptoms | Black, tarry stools, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, seizures, severe headache, blurred vision, stomach pain, loss of balance, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, and blistering and peeling skin. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Constipation | Not passing stool as usual. |
| Muscle pain | Body and muscle pain. |
| Vomiting | Vomiting. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Dostarlimab is a modern drug that helps our own immune system destroy cancer cells.
- This is given as an injection through a vein in a hospital.
- Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking before starting treatment.
- Inform the doctor or hospital immediately if you experience any unusual or serious side effects (especially allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, severe pain).
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding completely during treatment and for 4 months after stopping.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, talk to your doctor and resolve them. Don't be afraid.
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