Adcetris: Treats Hodgkin lymphoma and a Rare Lymphoma

Adcetris (brentuximab vedotin) is a medication used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma and a rare lymphoma known as systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma. It is an antibody-drug conjugate that combines chemotherapy drug and an antibody allowing the antibody to direct the drug to a target on lymphoma cells known as CD30. 

FDA Details

Adcetris received FDA approval in 2011 to treat Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. However, in 2016, the FDA issued a drug safety communication emphasizing that the combined use of Adcetris and bleomycin is contraindicated due to the risk of pulmonary toxicity.

Uses

Adcetris, a CD30-directed antibody-drug conjugate, is prescribed for two specific patient groups. It is used for individuals with Hodgkin lymphoma who have experienced treatment failure following autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) or after at least two prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimens, especially when ASCT is not a viable option. Additionally, Adcetric is indicated for systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma patients who have not responded to at least one prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimen.

Mechanism Of Action

Adcetris operates by combining an anti-CD30 antibody that targets CD30-expressing cells, commonly found in lymphomas, with a cytotoxic agent called MMAE. When the antibody binds to CD30, it triggers internalization of the drug, releasing MMAE inside the cell. MMAE disrupts microtubule assembly, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, ultimately destroying the cancer cell. This mechanism selectively targets cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy ones.

Dosage And Administration

For optimal administration, Brentuximab injection should be given exclusively through intravenous infusion, spanning a 30-minute timeframe, repeating every three weeks. The recommended dosage stands at 1.8mg/kg, with potential dose reduction for patients exhibiting mild hepatic impairment. Treatment should persist until the emergence of disease progression or the onset of unacceptable toxicity.

Drug Interaction

The simultaneous use of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, as well as P-gp inhibitors, can influence the levels of monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). Additionally, individuals with moderate to severe hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment are at an increased risk of higher MMAE exposure and an elevated likelihood of adverse reactions.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects associated with Adcetris include

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Anemia
• Decreased appetite

Patients should report any side effects to their healthcare provider immediately.

Safety Guidelines

Vigilance is essential for managing Adcetris side effects. Regularly assess patients for peripheral neuropathy and modify doses as necessary. If infusion reactions or anaphylaxis occurs, take immediate action, including interrupting or discontinuing the infusion. Monitor complete blood counts and fever before each Adcetris dose; consider adjustments or G-CSF prophylaxis for Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. 

Watch for serious infections and be especially vigilant with high tumor burden patients for tumor lysis syndrome. Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin for hepatotoxicity, and in cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, discontinue treatment. Additionally, advise pregnant women about potential fetal risks.

Recent Advancement: 

Recent Adcetris advancements include a groundbreaking phase 3 trial in June 2023, demonstrating its superiority in advanced classical Hodgkin lymphoma. In October 2023, the European Commission approved Adcetris for previously untreated CD30+ Stage III Hodgkin lymphoma, expanding its European indications. 

Additionally, a combination of Adcetris and novel immunotherapy achieved remarkable response rates in early-stage classical Hodgkin lymphoma. The FDA’s December 2022 approval for high-risk Hodgkin lymphoma in children and adolescents further broadens Adcetris’s application. These developments underscore Adcetris’s potential and emphasize the need for ongoing research and development in lymphoma treatment.

Conclusion

Adcetris has revolutionized lymphoma treatment with targeted precision and recent clinical successes. While monitoring potential side effects and individual dosing variations is essential, Adcetris represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment. Ongoing research and development will further unlock its potential in lymphoma therapy, promising a brighter future for patients. Adcetris 50mg price in India depends on the product requirement. Request more details by contacting our Patient Support Team at ‎(+91) 93157 05373 or help@sansfro.com.

Reference

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/125388_s056s078lbl.pdf
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6516120/
3. https://investor.seagen.com/press-releases/news-details/2022/Seagen-Announces-U.S.-FDA-Approval-of-New-Indication-for-ADCETRIS-brentuximab-vedotin-for-Children-with-Previously-Untreated-High-Risk-Hodgkin-Lymphoma/default.aspx