We all know that fighting cancer is not an easy journey. Your doctor may have recommended a drug called 'Enfortumab vedotin' for you in this fight. You may have felt a little scared and curious when you heard this name. But don't worry. In this article, we will talk about what this drug really is, what it does, and what you should be aware of when taking this treatment.
What is Enfortumab vedotin?
Simply put, this is an anti-cancer drug. Specifically, it is used to treat urothelial cancer, which is cancer that occurs in the urinary system, including our bladder and urethra.
What's special about this is that it's not like a regular pill. It's a combination of chemotherapy medicine and a monoclonal antibody . Think of it like a missile that goes straight to the target. That is, the monoclonal antibody in this medicine finds cancer cells, attaches to them, and sends the chemotherapy part directly into the cancer cell. This allows it to target and destroy only the cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy cells.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before you start this treatment, it is very important to give your doctor a clear picture of your complete health history. Because that information will help them decide whether this medication is right for you and how to give it. Be sure to tell them, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
- If you have diabetes (high blood sugar).
- If you have any eye disease, vision impairment, or other problems.
- If you have any lung disease.
- If you have skin diseases or if your skin is very sensitive.
- If you have numbness in your limbs, a tingling sensation, or another nerve disorder.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Enfortumab vedotin or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, this is very important.
How to give this medicine and other important points
This medicine is not something you can use at home. It is given as an injection into a vein by a trained doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic.
If you suspect that you have accidentally overdosed on this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
It is very important if you miss a day to take your medicine. If this happens, don't panic, but call your doctor immediately for advice on what to do next.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Yes, some medications and foods can interact with this medicine. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements). Be especially careful about the following:
- Some antivirals for HIV
- Medicines for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole and itraconazole
- The antibiotic drug Clarithromycin
- Grapefruit juice
- Mifepristone
- Telithromycin
What should I be aware of when taking the medicine?
It is very important to take good care of your body during this time.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility
This is a very important part.
- For women: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 2 months after stopping treatment. Tell your doctor right away if you are planning to become pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- For men: Avoid fathering a child while you are taking this medicine and for 4 months after stopping treatment, as the effects of this medicine may cause serious harm to an unborn baby.
- Breastfeeding mothers: Do not breastfeed your baby while taking the medicine and for at least 3 weeks after stopping.
- Fertility: This medication may affect male fertility. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
Other things to pay attention to
- Blood Sugar: This medicine may increase your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels regularly. Ask your doctor if you need to make any changes to your diet or diabetes medication.
- Dry eyes and vision problems: Dry eyes and blurred vision may occur. If you wear contact lenses, the discomfort may be worse. Using lubricating eye drops can help. But if the problem persists or is severe, tell your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your vision.
- Infection Risk: This medicine may lower your immunity and increase your risk of getting sick. If you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, or sore throat, do not self-medicate and call your doctor. Try to stay away from people who are sick.
- Serious Skin Reactions: This is very important. Serious skin reactions can sometimes occur, even weeks after starting the medicine. If you have a fever, red/purple blisters, a rash, peeling skin, or a red rash with swollen lymph nodes in the face, lips, neck, or armpits, seek medical advice immediately.
What side effects should I watch out for?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. The most important thing is to be aware of these symptoms and inform your doctor if necessary.
| Side effect | Symptoms you may see |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Serious skin reactions | Red or purple rash, blistering of the skin, peeling skin, sores inside the mouth. |
| High blood sugar | Unusually increased hunger, excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision. |
| Nerve problems | Pain, numbness, or loss of feeling in the hands and feet. |
| Lung problems | Cough, difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Changes in the digestive system | Taste changes, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting. |
| Other common problems | Dry skin, hair loss, and lifelessness. |
Take-Home Message
- Enfortumab vedotin is a targeted, specific treatment for urothelial cancer.
- Before taking this medication, it is imperative that you tell your doctor about all of your health conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- Avoid getting pregnant while taking the pill and for some time after stopping it (this applies to both women and men).
- If you notice any serious side effects such as severe skin reactions, vision changes, high fever, or signs of infection, tell your doctor immediately.
- Never stop treatment without your doctor's advice. Talk openly with him about any discomfort you feel.
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