Why is this medication prescribed?

A kind of skin cancer known as Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) that has spread to other parts of the body or returned after therapy with other treatments is treated with retifanlimab-dlwr injection. Member of the monoclonal antibody drug class is retifanlimab-dlwb. It functions by bolstering your immune system’s ability to impede or even reverse the spread of cancer cells.

How should this medicine be used?

Retifanlimab-dlwr is supplied as a solution, or liquid, that a physician or nurse will gradually inject into a vein over the course of 30 minutes. Typically, it is administered once every four weeks for the duration of your doctor’s recommended course of therapy.

Serious reactions may occur when the drug is infused with retifanlimab-dlwr injection. To treat or assist prevent reactions to retifanlimab-dlwr, you can be prescribed other drugs. You will be closely observed by a physician or nurse while taking the drug. If you have any of the following during the infusion, call your doctor or nurse right away: fever, back or neck discomfort, chills or shaking, itching, rash, flushing, shortness of breath, wheezing, disorientation, or fainting. If you encounter these side effects, your doctor might need to reduce the rate of your infusion, postpone your treatment, or discontinue it altogether.

If you have further side effects, your doctor may prescribe different medication or cease your therapy altogether, either temporarily or permanently. Make sure you let your doctor know how you’re feeling while receiving retifanlimab-dlwr injectable medication.

The patient information sheet (Medication Guide) provided by the manufacturer will be given to you by your doctor or pharmacist when you start retifanlimab-dlwr medication and every time you refill your prescription. If you have any questions, make sure to approach your pharmacist or doctor after thoroughly reading the material.

Other uses for this medicine

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information if you think this medicine could be recommended for something else.

What special precautions should I follow?

Here are some general precautions that were relevant as of last update, but it’s crucial to consult the latest prescribing information and guidelines for the most current information:

• If you have an allergy to any of the ingredients in retifanlimab-dlwr injection, any other medications, or retifanlimab-dlwr itself, let your doctor and pharmacist know. For an ingredient list, consult the Medication Guide or ask your pharmacist.
• Inform your physician and pharmacist about any additional prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies you now take or intend to use. Your doctor might need to carefully monitor you for any negative effects or adjust the dosages of your medications.
• Inform your physician about any organ or bone marrow transplants you may have had, as well as any radiation therapy you may have received to the chest; an autoimmune disease, which is a condition where the body’s immune system targets a healthy part of the body; examples of these conditions include Crohn’s disease, which causes pain, diarrhea, fever, and weight loss; ulcerative colitis, which causes swelling and sores in the lining of the colon (large intestine) and rectum; and lupus, which can cause the immune system to target numerous tissues and organs, including the kidneys, skin, joints, and blood; thyroid issues; diabetes; any kind of lung disease or breathing issues; any nervous system disorder, such as myasthenia gravis (a nervous system disorder causing muscle weakness) or Guillain-Barré syndrome (weakness, tingling, and possibly paralysis due to sudden nerve damage); illnesses of the kidneys or liver.
• Inform your physician if you intend to get pregnant or are already pregnant. A pregnancy test must be completed prior to receiving the retifanlimab-dlwr injection. It is not recommended that you become pregnant while taking retifanlimab-dlwr injection. Throughout your retifanlimab-dlwr injection treatment and for four months following your last dosage, you should use an effective birth control method to avoid getting pregnant. Consult your physician about birth control options that are suitable for you. Inform your doctor right away if you become pregnant while taking retifanlimab-dlwr injections. Pregnancy may be harmed by retinlimab-dlwr injection.
• Inform your physician if you are nursing a child or intend to do so. Breastfeeding is not recommended during the course of retifanlimab-dlwr injection or for four months following the last dose.

It’s important to recognize that information may have changed since last update, and it is highly recommended to consult with healthcare professionals and refer to the latest prescribing information and guidelines provided by the drug manufacturer or regulatory authorities for the most up-to-date information on, its uses, and associated precautions. Always follow the guidance of healthcare professionals involved in the treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There may not be specific dietary restrictions associated with Retifanlimab-dlwr, but it’s crucial to follow a balanced and healthy diet to support your overall well-being. If you have concerns about your diet while on this medication, consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Retifanlimab-dlwr, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. It’s essential to follow their instructions on whether to reschedule the missed dose or adjust your treatment plan. Do not try to make up for a missed dose without consulting your healthcare professional.

What side effects can this medication cause?

The injection of retifanlimab-dlwr may have adverse effects. If any of these symptoms are severe or persistent, let your doctor know:

Common Side Effects:

• Muscle or bone pain
• Nausea
• Tiredness

Serious Side Effects:

• New or worsening cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of feet, ankles, or lower legs
• Diarrhea; blood in stools; dark, tarry, sticky stools; or stomach area pain or tenderness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark-colored urine, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, loss of appetite, decreased energy, or pain on right side of stomach area
• Headaches that won’t go away or unusual headaches; rapid heartbeat; constipation; increased sweating; voice changes; weight changes; feeling more hungry or thirsty than usual; dizziness or fainting; hair loss; changes in mood or behavior such as decreased sex drive, feeling irritable, confused, or forgetful; constipation; increased urination; or feeling cold
• Changes in vision, including sensitivity to light, eye pain
• Tingling and weakness in the feet, legs, hands, and arms
• Stiff neck
• Decreased urination; blood in urine; swelling in ankles; or loss of appetite
• Rash
• Itching
• Blistering or peeling skin
• Sores in mouth, nose, throat, or genital area
• Swollen glands
• Fever or flu-like symptoms
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

Retifanlimab-dlwr might have other negative effects. If you have any odd side effects while taking this medicine, contact your doctor.

Patients who receive Retifanlimab-dlwr are typically closely monitored by healthcare professionals for any signs of adverse reactions or complications. If you are considering or undergoing treatment with Retifanlimab-dlwr, it is essential to have thorough discussions with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized information based on your health status and discuss potential risks and benefits associated with the treatment. Always report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare team promptly.

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

Storage and Disposal of Retifanlimab-dlwr:

Storage:

• Follow Instructions: Always follow the specific storage instructions provided by the healthcare provider or on the medication’s packaging.
• Temperature: Some medications may need to be stored in the refrigerator, while others can be kept at room temperature. Ensure that you are aware of the recommended temperature range.
• Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store medications in a safe place, out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid Exposure to Light: Some medications are sensitive to light, so follow any instructions regarding exposure to light.

Disposal:

• Follow Local Guidelines: Disposal guidelines for medications may vary by location. Follow local regulations for proper disposal.
• Don’t Flush: In many cases, it is not recommended to flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. This helps prevent environmental contamination.
• Take-Back Programs: Check if there are any drug take-back programs in your area where you can safely dispose of unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In the case of an emergency or suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact Poison Control: If available, contact your local poison control center for guidance.
• Bring Medication Information: Provide emergency responders with information about the medication, including its name and any available packaging.

What other information should I know?

• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about all the medications you are taking, including Retifanlimab-dlwr Injection.
• Attend Follow-up Appointments: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns.
• Be Aware of Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance related to Retifanlimab-dlwr Injection. They can provide the most accurate information based on your individual health status and the specific formulation of the medication.