Adcetris is a cancer drug that works in immunotherapy to target lymphoma cells and cause them to die. It consists of two parts: an antibody that binds to the CD30 protein on lymphoma cells and a chemotherapy drug that is released by the antibody when it binds to the cell. The chemotherapy drug, called monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), kills the lymphoma cells by blocking their ability to divide.
Brentuximab vedotin, also known by the brand name Adcetris, is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that targets antigens expressed on hematological cancer cells and certain solid tumors. ADCs are designed to maximize their potency by combining innovations in antibodies, conjugation chemistry and linker design with a powerful cytotoxic warhead that is capable of binding to and entering the cell. Currently, there are over 20 ADCs in clinical use and many others in preclinical development.
The FDA has approved the use of adcetris to treat several types of lymphoma in adults, including classical Hodgkin Lymphoma that has come back or failed to respond to previous treatment; systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma, a type of T cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma; and mycosis fungoides, a type of skin lymphoma. In addition, it is used to lower the likelihood that Hodgkin Lymphoma will return after a stem cell transplant in patients with certain risk factors.
During a clinical trial, 92% of patients treated with adcetris plus chemotherapy (doxorubicin, vinblastine, dacarbazine and bleomycin) experienced some improvement in their condition. Adcetris is given by infusion into a vein (intravenous injection) over 30 minutes by a trained healthcare professional. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting.
Side effects of adcetris can be serious and may lead to death. They can include problems with the lungs, pancreas, liver and skin; low white blood cell counts; low numbers of platelets; and an allergic reaction to the medicine or the infusion process. It is important to tell your doctor about any side effects you have during treatment.
During treatment, it is important to protect yourself from sun exposure and other sources of UV radiation. You should avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use protective clothing and sunscreen when going outside. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions about how long to take adcetris and how often you should receive the medication.
Before receiving this medicine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. This medicine may be harmful to fetuses. Also tell your doctor if you have had previous treatments that may make it harder for your body to respond to this medicine. Finally, tell your doctor if you have other medical conditions, especially heart disease or lung diseases. Your doctor will do tests before and during your treatment with adcetris to help prevent serious reactions and other complications.
