GENERIC NAME: ALEMTUZUMAB - INJECTABLE (uh-LEM-tooze-mob)

BRAND NAME(S): Campath

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Infrequently, alemtuzumab may cause serious (sometimes fatal) side effects including blood disorders (e.g., hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia), allergic reactions, and/or severe infections. Use this medication exactly as prescribed.

USES: Alemtuzumab is a protein (monoclonal antibody) used to treat a certain form of leukemia (B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia also known as B-CLL) in patients who have already received and/or have not responded to other cancer chemotherapy drugs (e.g., alkylating agents, fludarabine).

HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Because of the increased risk for serious infections while using this product, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to be taken during your treatment. Your doctor may also prescribe other medications (e.g., acetaminophen, diphenhydramine) to be taken 30 minutes before this drug is given. These drugs may help decrease the risk and/or severity of allergic reactions and some side effects. Give this medication by vein (IV) over 2 hours in a saline (NS) or dextrose (D5W) solution exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not give this medication by direct IV injection. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Doses of this drug must be gradually increased to minimize potentially serious side effects. Do not shake this product before or after mixing. Doing so could make this drug ineffective. Gently swirl the mixture. Do not give larger doses or give it more frequently than prescribed because doing so may increase the chance of severe side effects. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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