WARNING

Dinutuximab injection is used to treat a type of cancer called neuroblastoma, primarily in children. Like many medications, it carries certain risks. Some potential risks of taking Dinutuximab injection include:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Dinutuximab, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Infusion reactions: During or shortly after the infusion of Dinutuximab, patients may experience symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, or difficulty breathing.
• Pain: Dinutuximab injection can cause pain at the injection site, as well as bone pain, abdominal pain, or generalized body pain.
• Neurological side effects: Some patients may experience neurological side effects such as headache, weakness, dizziness, or peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the hands and feet).
• Infections: Dinutuximab can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment.
• Low blood cell counts: Dinutuximab can cause decreases in certain blood cell counts, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding.
• Other side effects: Other potential side effects of Dinutuximab include diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, elevated liver enzymes, and electrolyte imbalances.

It’s important for patients receiving Dinutuximab injection to be closely monitored by their healthcare providers for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Dinutuximab injection is prescribed primarily for the treatment of high-risk neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that primarily affects children. Neuroblastoma is often diagnosed in infancy or early childhood and typically originates in the adrenal glands but can also develop in nerve tissue along the spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.

Dinutuximab is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting a specific protein called GD2, which is found on the surface of neuroblastoma cells. By binding to GD2, Dinutuximab helps the immune system recognize and attack the cancer cells, thereby slowing down or stopping the growth and spread of the tumor.

How should this medicine be used?

The use of Dinutuximab injection is typically part of a multimodal treatment approach for high-risk neuroblastoma, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. It is often given in combination with other medications as part of an overall treatment regimen.

As for how Dinutuximab injection should be used, it is administered intravenously (into a vein) by a healthcare professional, usually in a hospital or clinic setting. The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on factors such as the patient’s age, weight, overall health, and response to treatment. Typically, Dinutuximab is given over several days as part of a cycle of treatment, with rest periods in between cycles to allow the body to recover.

Patients receiving Dinutuximab injection should be monitored closely by their healthcare team for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects, and adjustments to the treatment plan may be made as needed based on individual response and tolerance.

Other uses for this medicine

Dinutuximab injection is primarily used for the treatment of high-risk neuroblastoma in children. However, there may be other off-label uses or ongoing research into its potential effectiveness for other types of cancer or conditions. Patients should always follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Dinutuximab and consult with them regarding any potential alternative uses.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Dinutuximab injection, here are some important considerations:

• Medical history: Before starting treatment with Dinutuximab, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially allergies, infections, immune system disorders, or any other serious health issues.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Dinutuximab with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to use effective contraception during treatment and for some time afterward, as Dinutuximab may cause harm to a developing fetus.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies to medications or other substances, as Dinutuximab may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
• Infusion reactions: Dinutuximab infusion may cause infusion-related reactions, such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely during and after the infusion and may administer medications to manage any adverse reactions.
• Neurological side effects: Be aware of potential neurological side effects, including headache, weakness, dizziness, or peripheral neuropathy. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Infections: Dinutuximab can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals who are sick to reduce the risk of infection.
• Blood cell counts: Dinutuximab can cause decreases in certain blood cell counts, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood cell counts regularly during treatment.
• Liver function: Dinutuximab may affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzymes. Your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests to monitor liver function during treatment.
• Other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Dinutuximab and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider throughout the treatment process and to follow their guidance regarding the use of Dinutuximab injection and any necessary precautions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As for special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Dinutuximab Injection. However, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet can support your overall health and well-being during cancer treatment. Be sure to stay hydrated and eat a variety of foods to provide your body with essential nutrients.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Dinutuximab Injection, contact your healthcare provider or treatment team for guidance as soon as possible. They will advise you on the best course of action, which may include rescheduling the missed dose or adjusting your treatment schedule. It’s essential not to double the dose to make up for the missed one without consulting your healthcare provider first. Consistency in receiving treatment according to the prescribed schedule is crucial for its effectiveness.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dinutuximab injection, like many medications, can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects associated with Dinutuximab Injection include:

• Infusion reactions: During or shortly after the infusion, patients may experience symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, or difficulty breathing.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to Dinutuximab, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• Pain: Dinutuximab injection can cause pain at the injection site, as well as bone pain, abdominal pain, or generalized body pain.
• Neurological side effects: Some patients may experience neurological side effects such as headache, weakness, dizziness, or peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the hands and feet).
• Infections: Dinutuximab can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment.
• Low blood cell counts: Dinutuximab can cause decreases in certain blood cell counts, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding.
• Liver function abnormalities: Some patients may experience elevated liver enzymes, which can indicate liver inflammation or damage.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss are potential gastrointestinal side effects of Dinutuximab.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Dinutuximab can affect electrolyte levels in the body, leading to abnormalities such as low potassium or magnesium levels.

It’s important to note that not all patients will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency of side effects can vary from person to person. Patients should discuss any concerns or side effects they experience with their healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance and support to manage them effectively.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Dinutuximab Injection should be stored as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Typically, it is stored in a refrigerator at a controlled temperature until it is ready to be used.
• Do not freeze Dinutuximab Injection. If it is accidentally frozen, do not use it and consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Keep Dinutuximab Injection and all medications out of reach of children and pets.
• Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Unused or expired Dinutuximab Injection should be disposed of properly according to local regulations for hazardous waste disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• There is no specific antidote for Dinutuximab overdose. Treatment would typically involve supportive care and symptomatic management as necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Before starting Dinutuximab Injection, inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Dinutuximab.
• Attend all scheduled appointments for Dinutuximab Injection administration and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to treatment and manage any potential side effects.
• It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening symptoms during treatment with Dinutuximab Injection.
• Dinutuximab Injection is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Follow their instructions carefully regarding the timing and frequency of injections.
• Be aware of the potential side effects of Dinutuximab Injection and report any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the safe and effective use of Dinutuximab Injection.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about Dinutuximab Injection or its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your individual needs and circumstances.