WARNING

Taking Vyxeos, like any chemotherapy medication, involves certain risks and potential side effects. Some of the risks associated with Vyxeos include:

• Bone Marrow Suppression: Vyxeos can suppress the bone marrow, leading to decreased production of blood cells. This can result in anemia (low red blood cell count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). These conditions can increase the risk of infections, fatigue, and bleeding.
• Increased Risk of Infections: Due to a decrease in white blood cell counts, individuals taking Vyxeos may be more susceptible to infections. Infections can be serious and may require prompt medical attention.
• Bleeding and Bruising: Vyxeos can lower platelet counts, increasing the risk of bleeding and bruising. It’s important to take precautions to minimize the risk of injuries and promptly report any signs of bleeding to healthcare providers.
• Cardiotoxicity: Vyxeos contains daunorubicin, which can affect the heart. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or risk factors may be at an increased risk of cardiac complications.
• Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, and mouth sores are common gastrointestinal side effects associated with Vyxeos treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Vyxeos. It’s important to seek medical attention if you develop symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Tumor Lysis Syndrome: In some cases, the rapid breakdown of cancer cells during treatment can lead to tumor lysis syndrome, a condition characterized by electrolyte imbalances. This can be a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention.
• Secondary Cancers: Some chemotherapy medications, including those in Vyxeos, have been associated with an increased risk of developing secondary cancers in the future.

It’s essential for individuals receiving Vyxeos to be closely monitored by their healthcare team, adhere to the prescribed treatment plan, and promptly report any unusual symptoms or side effects. The decision to use Vyxeos is based on a careful assessment of the potential benefits and risks, taking into consideration the specific characteristics of the leukemia and the individual’s overall health. Patients should have open and thorough discussions with their healthcare providers to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of Vyxeos treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Vyxeos is a prescription medication used for the treatment of certain types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). AML is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Vyxeos is specifically indicated for the treatment of newly-diagnosed therapy-related AML (t-AML) or AML with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC) in adults.

Vyxeos is a combination of two chemotherapy drugs, daunorubicin and cytarabine, encapsulated in a liposome (a small fat bubble). This liposomal formulation allows for the controlled release of the drugs over time, which may enhance their effectiveness in killing leukemia cells.

The goal of treatment with Vyxeos is to induce remission by suppressing the growth of leukemia cells in the bone marrow and restoring normal blood cell production. It’s important to note that Vyxeos is typically prescribed and administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional experienced in the use of chemotherapy agents due to its potential side effects and the need for careful monitoring during treatment. The decision to prescribe Vyxeos is based on the specific characteristics of the individual’s leukemia and overall health.

How should this medicine be used?

Vyxeos is a prescription medication, and its use should be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional. The specific dosage and treatment regimen may vary depending on individual factors such as the patient’s overall health, the type of leukemia, and other medical considerations. Here are general guidelines for the use of Vyxeos:

• Administration: Vyxeos is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. It is given through intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein.
• Dosage: The dosage of Vyxeos is determined by the healthcare provider based on the patient’s weight and other individual factors. The treatment may involve one or more cycles of Vyxeos, and each cycle consists of a specific number of doses.
• Schedule: The dosing schedule and the number of cycles may vary. Treatment with Vyxeos is often given over several days, and the healthcare team will determine the appropriate timing for each dose.
• Monitoring: During and after treatment with Vyxeos, healthcare providers will closely monitor the patient for any potential side effects or complications. This may involve regular blood tests to assess the levels of blood cells and other parameters.
• Precautions: Vyxeos is a potent chemotherapy drug, and precautions should be taken to minimize the risk of side effects. Patients may receive other medications to manage potential side effects, such as nausea or infections.
• Follow-Up Care: After completing a cycle of Vyxeos, patients may undergo follow-up assessments to evaluate the response to treatment and determine the next steps in their care.

It’s crucial for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare team about any concerns, side effects, or changes in their health during Vyxeos treatment. As with any chemotherapy regimen, the benefits and risks of treatment should be carefully considered and discussed between the healthcare provider and the patient.

Other uses for this medicine

It’s important to note that the use of Vyxeos is limited to its approved indications, and it is not typically prescribed for other conditions. The decision to use Vyxeos is based on a careful assessment of the patient’s medical history, the specific characteristics of the leukemia, and other individual factors.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Vyxeos, it’s crucial for healthcare providers and patients to be aware of potential side effects and take steps to manage them. Some general precautions include:

• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood cell counts and other relevant laboratory parameters is essential during Vyxeos treatment. This helps healthcare providers assess the patient’s response to treatment and manage any potential complications.
• Infection Prevention: Vyxeos can suppress the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in blood cell counts, including white blood cells that are crucial for the immune system. Patients may be at an increased risk of infections, so precautions to prevent infections, such as practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding sick individuals, and following healthcare provider recommendations, are important.
• Bleeding Precautions: Due to the potential for decreased platelet counts, which play a role in blood clotting, patients should take precautions to avoid activities that may increase the risk of bleeding. This includes being careful when using sharp objects, taking steps to prevent falls, and informing healthcare providers of any signs of bleeding.
• Cardiac Monitoring: Vyxeos contains daunorubicin, which can affect the heart. Patients with pre-existing heart conditions or risk factors for heart problems may require cardiac monitoring during treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Vyxeos may cause harm to a developing fetus, so it is important for patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended during Vyxeos treatment.

It’s essential for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare team about their medical history, any medications they are taking, and any symptoms or side effects they may be experiencing. The healthcare provider will provide specific guidance based on the individual patient’s situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Vyxeos. However, maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet is important for overall health during cancer treatment. It’s advisable to discuss any dietary concerns or questions with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and medical condition.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the schedule and administration of Vyxeos. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. It may be necessary to reschedule the dose or adjust the treatment plan based on the specific circumstances. Do not attempt to make up for a missed dose without consulting your healthcare team, as they will provide the most appropriate guidance based on your individual situation.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Vyxeos, like many chemotherapy medications, can cause a range of side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience the same side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects of Vyxeos include:

• Low Blood Cell Counts: Vyxeos can lead to a decrease in the number of blood cells, including red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (neutropenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia). This can result in fatigue, increased risk of infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, are common with Vyxeos. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage these symptoms.
• Febrile Neutropenia: Vyxeos can cause a low white blood cell count with fever (febrile neutropenia), which may increase the risk of infections. This is a serious side effect that requires prompt medical attention.
• Mouth Sores: Some people may experience mouth sores or ulcers as a result of Vyxeos treatment. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations can help manage this side effect.
• Fatigue: Cancer treatment, including Vyxeos, can lead to fatigue. It’s important to get enough rest and communicate with your healthcare team if you are experiencing excessive tiredness.
• Bruising and Bleeding: Vyxeos may cause a decrease in platelets, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding. Notify your healthcare provider if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Decreased Appetite: Some individuals may experience a decreased appetite while receiving Vyxeos. Maintaining adequate nutrition is important during cancer treatment, so discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.
• Elevated Liver Enzymes: Vyxeos may cause an increase in liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring of liver function through blood tests is typically performed during treatment.
• Hair Loss: While not everyone will experience hair loss, it can be a side effect of chemotherapy, including Vyxeos.
• Skin Rash: Skin reactions, including rash, may occur. Inform your healthcare provider if you notice any skin changes.

It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any side effects you may be experiencing. They can provide guidance on managing symptoms and may adjust the treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, seek medical attention for any severe or persistent side effects, as prompt intervention may be required.

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

Storage and disposal of Vyxeos:

• Storage: Vyxeos is typically administered in a healthcare setting, and the storage of the medication is the responsibility of the healthcare provider. It is important to store Vyxeos as directed by the healthcare facility or pharmacist to ensure its stability and effectiveness. Generally, chemotherapy medications are stored in a controlled environment, and specific temperature and storage requirements are followed.
• Disposal: The disposal of Vyxeos and other chemotherapy drugs should be handled with care. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by healthcare providers, pharmacies, or local regulations for the safe disposal of unused or expired medication. Do not dispose of Vyxeos in the regular trash, and do not flush it down the toilet. Consult with your healthcare team for guidance on the proper disposal procedure.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Emergency services or a local poison control center can provide assistance. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, the dose taken, and any symptoms experienced. Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, and increased risk of infection due to low blood cell counts.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. These appointments allow the healthcare team to monitor your response to treatment, adjust the treatment plan if needed, and address any concerns or side effects.
• Blood Tests: Regular blood tests are often part of the monitoring process during Vyxeos treatment. These tests help assess blood cell counts and detect any abnormalities.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Keep your healthcare team informed about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they can interact with Vyxeos.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your healthcare provider, as Vyxeos may cause harm to a developing fetus or nursing infant.
• Educational Resources: Ask your healthcare team for educational resources about Vyxeos, including information about potential side effects, self-care measures, and when to seek medical attention.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance for the safe and effective use of Vyxeos. If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team.