Why is this medication prescribed?

Cemiplimab-rwlc injection is prescribed to treat certain types of cancer. Specifically, it is used for the treatment of:

• Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (CSCC): This is a type of skin cancer that may occur in areas of the skin exposed to sunlight or other forms of ultraviolet (UV) light. Cemiplimab-rwlc is used in patients with CSCC that is locally advanced (when the cancer has spread nearby but not to other parts of the body) or metastatic (when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body).
• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): It may also be used for certain cases of basal cell carcinoma, another type of skin cancer, when other treatment options are not appropriate.

How should this medicine be used?

Cemiplimab-rwlc injection is administered as an intravenous infusion, meaning it is delivered directly into a vein. Here are the general guidelines for how Cemiplimab-rwlc should be used:

• Administration: Cemiplimab-rwlc is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting such as a hospital or clinic.
• Dosage: The dosage of Cemiplimab-rwlc can vary based on the type of cancer being treated and the patient’s individual health status. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you.
• Infusion Schedule: The infusion is usually given over a specified period of time, which may range from 30 minutes to several hours. The exact duration of the infusion will be determined by your healthcare provider.
• Frequency: The frequency of administration also depends on the specific treatment regimen prescribed by your doctor. It may be given once every two weeks or on a different schedule as deemed appropriate for your condition.
• Monitoring: During and after the infusion, your healthcare team will monitor you closely for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects. They will also assess your response to treatment over time.
• Precautions: It’s important to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the preparation, administration, and any precautions associated with Cemiplimab-rwlc. This helps ensure the medication is administered safely and effectively.
• Follow-up: After each infusion, you may need to schedule follow-up visits with your doctor to evaluate your progress, monitor for side effects, and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your medical condition and treatment regimen. They can provide personalized guidance on how to use Cemiplimab-rwlc injection based on your individual needs.

Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Cemiplimab-rwlc injection, there are several special precautions to consider:

• Immune System Reactions: Cemiplimab-rwlc works by targeting the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) pathway, which can affect the immune system. This can lead to immune-related adverse reactions, such as pneumonitis (lung inflammation), colitis (inflammation of the colon), hepatitis (liver inflammation), and others. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for these reactions during treatment.
• Infusion Reactions: Infusion-related reactions, such as fever, chills, rash, or breathing difficulties, can occur during or after the infusion of Cemiplimab-rwlc. Your healthcare team will monitor you during the infusion and may administer medications to manage these reactions if they occur.
• Infections: Since Cemiplimab-rwlc affects the immune system, it may increase the risk of infections. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you develop signs or symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, cough, or sore throat.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of using Cemiplimab-rwlc if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant should be carefully considered.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as they may interact with Cemiplimab-rwlc.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are essential to assess your response to treatment, manage any side effects, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Cemiplimab-rwlc injection, including any precautions specific to your individual health status and treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions or instructions associated with Cemiplimab-rwlc injection. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is generally recommended to support overall health and well-being during treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a scheduled dose of Cemiplimab-rwlc, it is important to contact your healthcare provider or treatment facility promptly. They will advise you on the appropriate course of action, which may include rescheduling the missed dose or adjusting your treatment schedule. It is essential not to administer extra doses to make up for a missed one without medical guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cemiplimab-rwlc injection, like other medications, can cause side effects. Some of the common and potentially serious side effects include:

• Immune-Related Adverse Reactions: Cemiplimab-rwlc works by altering the immune response, which can lead to immune-related side effects such as:
  • Pneumonitis (lung inflammation)
  • Colitis (inflammation of the colon)
  • Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
  • Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Skin rash or dermatitis
• Infusion Reactions: During or shortly after the infusion of Cemiplimab-rwlc, some patients may experience infusion-related reactions, including:
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Itching or rash
  • Difficulty breathing
• Infections: Cemiplimab-rwlc can weaken the immune system’s ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of developing bacterial, fungal, viral, or other infections. Symptoms of infection may include fever, cough, sore throat, and others.
• Other Common Side Effects: These may include:
  • Fatigue
  • Decreased appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Constipation
  • Cough
• Serious Adverse Reactions: In rare cases, Cemiplimab-rwlc may cause severe or life-threatening reactions such as:
  • Severe infusion reactions
  • Severe pneumonitis
  • Severe colitis
  • Hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity)
  • Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
  • Nephritis (kidney inflammation)

It’s essential to promptly report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider during treatment with Cemiplimab-rwlc. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely for these side effects and may adjust your treatment plan or provide supportive care to manage them.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of all medications, supplements, and health conditions you have to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Cemiplimab-rwlc injection should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original carton to protect it from light until ready for use.
• Handling: Always handle Cemiplimab-rwlc injection carefully and ensure it is not exposed to excessive heat or sunlight.
• Disposal: Unused or expired Cemiplimab-rwlc should be disposed of properly according to local regulations. Do not dispose of it in household trash. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide guidance on how to safely dispose of unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Contact: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects after receiving Cemiplimab-rwlc injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact your healthcare provider or local emergency services.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Signs of overdose with Cemiplimab-rwlc may include severe infusion reactions, severe immune-related adverse reactions (such as severe pneumonitis or colitis), or other serious side effects.
• Treatment: Treatment for overdose will depend on the specific symptoms and severity. Supportive care and management of symptoms may be necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is essential during treatment with Cemiplimab-rwlc. This includes monitoring for side effects, assessing treatment response, and adjusting the treatment plan as needed.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure continuity of care and to discuss any concerns or changes in your health.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of Cemiplimab-rwlc treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Cemiplimab-rwlc.
• Travel: If you plan to travel, ensure you have an adequate supply of Cemiplimab-rwlc and make arrangements for its storage and administration according to your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use, storage, and disposal of Cemiplimab-rwlc injection to ensure safe and effective treatment.