When we think of cancer treatment, things like chemotherapy and radiation therapy come to mind. But medical science is advancing day by day. Today, amazing, modern treatments have been found to fight cancer. Idecabtagene Vicleucel is one such, a very special treatment that has made a big breakthrough in the art of cancer treatment. Let's talk about this simply and cordially today.
What is this treatment called Idecabtagene Vicleucel?
Simply put, this is not a medicine like the pill, capsule, or syrup you would normally take. This is gene therapy . This is something very amazing.
Think of your own body's own disease-fighting 'army' called immune cells. In this treatment, doctors take some of these immune cells from your body. Then, they send those cells to a specialized laboratory and train them to recognize and attack cancer cells. It's like giving our own army special training, teaching it to recognize and destroy the enemy.
These specially trained cells are called Idecabtagene Vicleucel. These cells are then injected back into your own body, through a vein. Now these super-powered cells travel throughout your body, seeking out and destroying hidden cancer cells.
This treatment is currently mainly used to treat multiple myeloma , a type of cancer that develops in the bone marrow. ABECMA is the brand name for this drug.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
Because this is a very specific treatment, your medical team needs to have a complete picture of your health. So, be sure to tell your doctor about the following, without hiding anything.
- If you currently have any type of infection , such as a fever or cold.
- If you have another inflammatory disease .
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this Idecabtagene vicleucel medicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding , this is very important.
Remember, the information you provide is what doctors use to decide whether this treatment is safe for you or not.
How is this treatment given?
This is not a medicine you can take at home. This treatment is given in a hospital or specialized clinic, under the close supervision of doctors and nurses. This medicine is given to you as a saline solution into a vein. We call it an 'infusion' .
Before your treatment, you will be given a special information leaflet (MedGuide) with all the details about this. It is very important to read and understand it carefully every time.
Since this treatment is given under medical supervision, there is no risk of 'overdosing'. However, if you feel anything unusual or uncomfortable during the treatment , tell your doctor or nurse immediately . In an emergency, they will refer you to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU). If necessary, they will seek further advice from the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital.
What other things can interact with this medicine?
While taking this treatment, your immune system will function in a special way, so there may be interactions with some things.
- Live vaccines: You should avoid getting live vaccines during this time. For example, vaccines like measles and mumps. If you need to get any vaccine, be sure to ask your oncologist about it.
- Other medications: Give your doctor a complete list of all other medications, pain relievers, vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements you take. Some medications may interact with this treatment.
Things to consider during and after treatment
You need to take great care of your health during and for several months after receiving this treatment.
- Risk of infection: This treatment affects your immune system, so you may be more likely to get infections. If you develop symptoms such as fever, chills , cough, sore throat, or pain when urinating, do not self-medicate and call your doctor immediately. It is best to avoid going to places where sick people are.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: You may experience drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know exactly how this medication affects you.
- Blood donation: Avoid donating blood while taking this treatment and for a period of time as directed by your doctor.
- Pregnancy: It is strongly recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication, as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. If you are planning to have a baby, talk to your doctor about it before treatment and get advice on safe methods.
- Medical tests: Your doctor will order regular blood tests (blood work) to monitor your condition. Don't miss any of them.
What are the possible side effects of this treatment?
As with any powerful treatment, there are potential side effects. Some of these should be reported immediately, while others are less serious.
| Type of side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor or nurse immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Bleeding | Black, tarry stools; red or dark brown urine; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; red spots on the skin; unusual bleeding from the eyes, gums, or nose. |
| Nervous system changes | Confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, tremors. |
| Heart and lung problems | Fast, irregular heartbeat; difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills , cough, sore throat, urinary tract infection. |
| Other serious symptoms | Low blood pressure (dizziness, fainting); severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| General inconveniences | Bone pain, constipation, loss of appetite, headache, muscle pain, swelling of ankles, feet, and hands. |
This list may not include all side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor about them.
Take-Home Message
- Idecabtagene Vicleucel is not a regular medicine, it is a special gene therapy made from your own cells.
- This treatment is only provided in a hospital, under medical supervision.
- Before treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking.
- If you experience symptoms of infection such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or severe side effects such as confusion, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid driving after treatment as drowsiness and dizziness may occur.
- Avoid pregnancy completely during treatment. Talk to your doctor about this.
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