Brentuximab (By injection)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to brentuximab or if you are pregnant.

You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It is usually given every 3 weeks.
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
Missed dose: Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Do not use this medicine together with bleomycin.
Some medicines can affect how brentuximab works. Tell your doctor if you are also using ketoconazole or rifampin.

This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for at least 6 months after your final dose.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
- Peripheral neuropathy (a nerve problem)
- Infusion reaction
- Liver damage
- Tumor lysis syndrome (electrolyte and metabolic problem that can be life-threatening)
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (brain infection that can be life-threatening)
- New or worse lung problems
- Serious skin reactions
- Stomach or bowel problems, including bleeding, blockage, perforation, or ulcers
This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Chills, trouble breathing, rash, fever, headache
Confusion, changes in mood or behavior, problems with vision, speech, memory, or walking
Cough, trouble breathing, coughing up blood
Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
Difficult or painful urination, bloody or cloudy urine
Fever of 100.5 degrees F or higher, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
Severe stomach pain, bloody or black stools, vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

Last Updated: 1/27/2017