Blinatumomab Injection (BLINATUMOMAB - INJECTION)

Blinatumomab Injection (BLINATUMOMAB - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • leukemia (ALL)
  • cancer

Brand Name(s): Blincyto

Generic Name: Blinatumomab

Instructions

This medicine is given as a continuous infusion into a vein.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Learn how to use the infusion pump and what the pump alarm sounds like. If you hear the alarm, contact the doctor right away.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

You may need to cycle between periods of taking the medicine and taking breaks from the medicine to allow your body to recover. Follow your instructions carefully.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not stand or sit up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not operate machinery or drive while on this medicine.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people with infections such as colds and flu.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 days after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 2 days after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • dizziness
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • loss of balance
  • bleeding that is severe or takes longer to stop
  • confusion
  • coughing
  • swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • fever or chills
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • muscle weakness
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • difficulty speaking
  • difficulty swallowing
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.