Description
Introduction to Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection
Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection contains blinatumomab and is manufactured by Amgen Inc. It is a prescription immunotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).
Blincyto may be used in adults and children with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL. It can also be used for patients with B-cell precursor ALL who are in complete remission but have minimal residual disease (MRD). In adults with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor ALL, Blincyto may be used together with chemotherapy.
Blinatumomab belongs to a type of immunotherapy called a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE). It connects cancer cells carrying the CD19 protein with immune cells called T-cells through CD3. This helps the body’s immune system recognise and destroy the cancer cells.
Blincyto is given as a continuous intravenous infusion under close medical supervision because it can cause serious reactions during treatment.
Uses of Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection
Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection may be used for:
- Relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL in adults and children.
- B-cell precursor ALL in complete remission with minimal residual disease (MRD) in adults and children.
- Newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor ALL in adults, when used in combination with chemotherapy.
The exact treatment plan depends on the patient’s age, condition, test results, and response to treatment.
Storage
- Store Blincyto in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C.
- Do not freeze the vial or prepared infusion bag.
- Keep the medicine in its original carton to protect it from light.
- Prepared infusion bags should be stored according to the healthcare professional’s instructions and approved product information.
- Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.
Safety Advice
Pregnancy
Consult Your Doctor
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or could become pregnant. Blinatumomab may cause harm to an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 48 hours after the last dose, as advised by their doctor.
Breastfeeding
Consult Your Doctor
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during Blincyto treatment and for at least 48 hours after the last infusion. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding.
Lungs
Consult Your Doctor
Blincyto can cause serious infusion-related reactions that may affect breathing. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing during or after treatment.
Liver
Consult Your Doctor
Blincyto may cause an increase in liver enzymes. Your doctor may perform blood tests to check your liver function before and during treatment.
Alcohol
Consult Your Doctor
Talk to your doctor about alcohol consumption during Blincyto treatment. Alcohol may worsen symptoms such as tiredness or dizziness and may not be suitable during treatment.
Driving
Consult Your Doctor
Blincyto may cause neurological side effects such as dizziness, confusion, problems with coordination, or seizures. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience these symptoms and follow your doctor’s advice about when it is safe to drive.
FAQ
What is Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection used for?
Blincyto is used to treat certain types of B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). It may be prescribed for relapsed or refractory ALL, MRD-positive ALL in complete remission, and certain newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative ALL cases in adults when used with chemotherapy.
How does Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection work?
Blincyto contains blinatumomab, which is a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE). It connects T-cells with cancer cells and helps the immune system attack and destroy the leukaemia cells.
What are BiTE antibodies?
BiTE antibodies are a type of targeted immunotherapy. They work by bringing immune T-cells into direct contact with cancer cells. This helps T-cells recognise and destroy the cancer cells.
How is Blincyto 38.5mcg Injection given?
Blincyto is given as a continuous intravenous infusion using an infusion pump. Treatment is given according to a specific treatment cycle prescribed by the oncologist. Close medical monitoring is required, particularly when treatment is started or restarted, because serious reactions can occur.
What are the serious side effects of Blincyto?
Serious side effects may include cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurological problems. CRS may cause fever, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. Neurological side effects may include confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of coordination, reduced consciousness, or seizures.
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe or unusual symptoms during Blincyto treatment.
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