When your doctor tells you or a loved one to start taking a drug called Isatuximab for a cancer condition, it's normal to feel a little scared and curious. What kind of drug is this? How does it work? Are there any side effects? You probably have a lot of questions in your mind. Today, we'll talk about all of this simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is Isatuximab?
Simply put, Isatuximab is a special drug that is used to treat a type of cancer that forms in the bone marrow (multiple myeloma). In our country, this drug can be found under the brand name SARCLISA.
This drug works by identifying and blocking a specific protein that helps cancer cells grow and spread throughout the body. When that protein stops working, the cancer cells lose their ability to grow. This stops the spread of cancer and helps control the disease.
Things to tell your doctor before starting treatment
To determine if this treatment is right for you and safe, you need to tell your doctor this information. Don't hide anything, because your safety is the most important thing.
- If you have any heart disease .
- If you currently have an infection , especially a viral infection such as chickenpox or herpes.
- If you have allergies to isatuximab or any other medicine, food, or dye in clothing.
- If you are trying to get pregnant or are currently pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
How can I give you this medicine?
Isatuximab is an injection given into a vein. It is not a medicine you can take at home. It is given to you in a hospital or clinic under the supervision of a doctor or trained nursing staff.
Since this medicine is given under medical supervision, the chances of an overdose are very low. However, if you suspect that something has happened, immediately inform the National Poisons Information Centre or the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) at the National Hospital.
If you can't get to the hospital on the scheduled day to get your shot, don't skip it. It's very important. Call your doctor or medical team right away to reschedule.
Things to consider during treatment
We need to take a little more care of your health while taking this medicine.
Constant medical supervision
Your doctor will monitor your condition regularly and may also order regular blood tests to see how the medication is affecting your body.
Protect yourself from infections!
This is very important. Taking Isatuximab may lower your body's immune system, making you more likely to get infections.
- If you develop symptoms of a cold, such as fever, chills, cough, and sore throat , do not self-medicate. Call your doctor immediately for advice.
- Try to stay away from sick people as much as possible.
- If you have never had a disease like measles or chickenpox before, and you have been in contact with someone who has one, tell your doctor about it.
Special awareness about blood donation and blood transfusions
This is a very important point to remember. Isatuximab can affect the results of tests that check your blood type. Therefore, your doctor will check and record your blood type before starting treatment . If you ever need to donate blood in an emergency, it is essential to tell the medical staff that you are taking Isatuximab.
Pregnancy and lactation
You should avoid getting pregnant while taking this medication, as well as for at least 5 months after stopping treatment. This medication can seriously harm an unborn baby. Also, doctors advise you to completely avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Isatuximab can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone gets them. The most important thing is to tell your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Symptoms that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of heart failure | Difficulty breathing, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, sudden weight gain, unusual tiredness. |
| Symptoms of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat. |
| Infusion reactions | Chest pain, difficulty breathing, and fainting that occurs during or shortly after the drug is given intravenously. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Back pain | Back pain |
| Flatulence | Diarrhea |
| Increased blood pressure | Increase in blood pressure |
| Insomnia | Trouble sleeping |
| 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
- Isatuximab is a special vaccine given to bone marrow cancer (multiple myeloma) that stops the growth of cancer cells.
- It is very important to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies before starting this treatment.
- If you develop symptoms of infection such as fever and cough during treatment, do not self-medicate and seek medical advice immediately.
- Because this medication can affect blood clotting tests, it is essential to inform the medical staff that you are taking this medication if you need a blood transfusion.
- Avoid becoming pregnant while taking treatment and for 5 months after stopping. Also avoid breastfeeding.
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