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Drug overview for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
Generic name: ELRANATAMAB-BCMM
Drug class: Antineoplastic - Immunotherapy, T-cell Engager
Therapeutic class: Antineoplastics
Elranatamab-bcmm, a bispecific B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CD3 T-cell engager, is an antineoplastic agent.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
Generic name: ELRANATAMAB-BCMM
Drug class: Antineoplastic - Immunotherapy, T-cell Engager
Therapeutic class: Antineoplastics
Elranatamab-bcmm, a bispecific B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CD3 T-cell engager, is an antineoplastic agent.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
DRUG IMAGES
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The following indications for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm) have been approved by the FDA:
Indications:
Multiple myeloma
Professional Synonyms:
Plasma cell myeloma
Indications:
Multiple myeloma
Professional Synonyms:
Plasma cell myeloma
The following dosing information is available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
Dosage delays may be required to manage toxicitiesofelranatamab-bcmm.
If a dose is delayed, restart therapy based on recommendations in Table 2 and resume the dosing schedule accordingly. Administer premedications as indicated in Table 2.
Table 2. Recommendations for Restarting Therapy with Elranatamab after Dosage Delay
Last Dose Administered Time Since Last Dose Recommendations Administered Step-up dose 1 (12 mg) 2 weeks or less (<=14 Restart at step-up dose days) 2 (32 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 4 days later.
Step-up dose 1 (12 mg) Greater than 2 weeks Restart at step-up dose (>14 days) 1 (12 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) 2 weeks or less (<=14 Restart at 76 mg. days) Administer pre-medications prior to the dose.
Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) Greater than 2 weeks to Restart at step-up dose less than or equal to 4 2 (32 mg). Administer weeks (15 days to <=28 pre-medications prior to days) the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 1 week later.
Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) Greater than 4 weeks Restart at step-up dose (>28 days) 1 (12 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. Any treatment dose (76 6 weeks or less (<=42 Restart at 76 mg. mg) days) Any treatment dose (76 Greater than 6 weeks to Restart at step-up dose mg) less than or equal to 12 2 (32 mg).
Administer weeks (43 days to <=84 pre-medications prior to days) the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 1 week later. Any treatment dose (76 Greater than 12 weeks Restart at step-up dose mg) (>84 days) 1 (12 mg).
Administer pre-medications prior to the dose.
Consider the risks and benefits of restartingelranatamab in patients who require a dosage delay of >42 days due to an adverse reaction.
Dosage reductions ofelranatamab-bcmm are not recommended.
Dosage delays may be required to manage toxicities related toelranatamab. Refer to Table 2 for recommendations on restartingafter a dose delay.
If CRS is suspected, withhold elranatamab until CRS resolves. Manage CRS according to the recommendations in Table 3 and consider further management in accordance with current practice guidelines. Administer supportive therapy for CRS, which may include intensive care for severe or life-threatening CRS.
Consider laboratory testing to monitor for disseminated intravascular coagulation, hematology parameters, as well as pulmonary, cardiac, renal, and hepatic function.
Table 3. Recommendations for Management of CRS
Grade Presenting Symptoms Recommendations Grade 1 Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab until CRS resolves Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 2 Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab witheither: until CRS resolves Monitor daily for 48 hours following the next dose Instruct patients to remain within proximity of a healthcare facility, and consider hospitalization Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 3 (first Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab ocurrence) witheither: until CRS resolves Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Hospitalize patients for 48 hours following the next dose of elranatamab-bcmm Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 3 (recurrent) Temperature>=38degreesC Permanentlydiscontinue witheither: elranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Grade 4 Temperature>=38degreesC Permanentlydiscontinue witheither: elranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care
Based onAmerican Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) 2019 grading criteria for CRS.
Attributed to CRS; fever may not always be present concurrently with hypotension or hypoxia as itmay be masked by interventions such as antipyretics or anti-cytokine therapy.
Low-flow nasal cannula is <=6 L/min; high-flow nasal cannula is >6 L/min.
Refer to Table 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab-bcmm after a dose delay.
Refer to Tables 4 and 5 for the management of ICANS and neurologic toxicity (excluding ICANS), respectively.
At the first sign of neurologic toxicity (including ICANS), withhold elranatamab and consider neurology evaluation. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care, for severe or life-threatening neurologic toxicities, including ICANS.
Manage ICANS according to the recommendations in Table 4 and consider further management in accordance with current practice guidelines.
Table 4. Recommendations for Management of ICANS
Grade Presenting Symptoms Recommendations Grade 1 ICE Score 7-9, OR Withhold Depressed level of elranatamab-bcmm until consciousness (not ICANS resolves Monitor attributable to any neurologic symptoms and other cause); awakens considerconsultation spontaneously with neurologist and otherspecialists for further evaluation andmanagement Consider non-sedating, anti-seizuremedications (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis Grade 2 ICE Score 3-6, OR Withhold elranatamab Depressed level of until ICANS resolves consciousness (not Administer dexamethasone attributable to any (or equivalent drug) 10 other cause); awakens to mg IV every 6 voice hours;continue dexamethasone use until resolution to grade 1 or less, then taper Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologis t and other specialists for further evaluation and management Consider non-sedating, anti-seizure medications (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis Monitor daily for 48 hours following the nextelranatamab-bcmm dose Instruct patient to remain withi n proximity of a healthcare facility and consider hospitalization Grade 3 (first ICE Score 0-2, OR Withhold elranatamab occurrence) Depressed level of until ICANS resolves consciousness (not Administer dexamethasone attributable to any (or equivalent drug) 10 other cause); awakens mg IV every 6 only to tactile hours;continue stimulus,OR Seizures dexamethasone use until (not attributable to any resolution to grade 1 or other cause),either: any less, then taper Monitor clinical seizure, focal neurologic symptoms and or generalized, that consider consultation resolves rapidly, with neurologis ornon-c onvulsive seizures on t and other specialists EEG that resolve with for further evaluation intervention, OR Raised and management Consider intracranial pressure: non-sedating, focal/local edema on anti-seizure medications neuroimaging (not (e.g., levetiracetam) attributable to any for seizure prophylaxis other cause) Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Hospitalize patients for 48 hours foll owing the nextelranatamab-bcmm dose Grade 3 (recurrent) ICE Score 0-2, OR Permanently discontinue Depressed level of elranatamab Administer consciousness (not dexamethasone (or attributable to any equivalent drug) 10 mg other cause); awakens IV every 6 hours; only to tactile continue dexamethasone stimulus,OR Seizures use until resolution to (not attributable to any grade 1 or less, then other cause),either: any taper Monitor neurologic clinical seizure, focal symptoms and consider or generalized, that consultation with resolves rapidly, neurologist and ornon-c onvulsive seizures on other specialists for EEG that resolve with further evaluation and intervention, OR Raised management Consider intracranial pressure: non-sedating, focal/local edema on anti-seizure medications neuroimaging (not (e.g., levetiracetam) attributable to any for seizure prophylaxis other cause) Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Grade 4 ICE Score 0, OR Depressed level of consciousness (not attributable to any other cause),either:unarousabl e or requires vigorous or repetitive tactile stimuli to arouse, orstupor or coma,OR Seizures (not attributable to any other cause),either: life-threate ning prolonged seizure Permanently (>5 minutes), or discontinueelranatamab repetitive clinical or Administer dexamethasone electrical seizures (or equivalent drug) 10 without return to mg IV every 6 baseline in between,OR hours;continue Motor findings (not dexamethasone use until attributable to any resolution to grade 1 or other cause): deep focal less, then taper. motor weakness such as Alternatively, consider hemiparesis or administration of paraparesis,OR Raised methylprednisolone 1000 intracr mg per da anial pressure/cerebral y IV for 3 days Monitor edema (not attributable neurologic symptoms and to any other cause), consider consultation with signs/symptoms such with neurologist and as diffuse cerebral other specialists for edema on neuroimaging, further evaluation and or decerebrate or management Consider decorticate posturing, non-sedating, or cranial nerve VI anti-seizure medications palsy, or papilledema, (e.g., levetiracetam) or Cushing's triad. for seizure prophylaxis Provide suppor tive therapy, which may include intensive care
Based on American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) 2019 grading criteria for ICANS.
Management is based on most severe event, not attributable to other cause.
If patient is arousable and able to perform Immune Effector Cell-Associated Encephalopathy (ICE)Assessment, assess: Orientation (oriented to year, month, city, hospital = 4 points); Naming(name 3 objects, e.g., point to clock, pen, button = 3 points); Following Commands (e.g., ''showme 2 fingers'' or ''close your eyes and stick out your tongue'' = 1 point); Writing (ability to write astandard sentence = 1 point); and Attention (count backwards from 100 by 10 = 1 point). Ifpatient is unarousable and unable to perform ICE Assessment (Grade 4 ICANS) = 0 points.
Refer toTable 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab after a dose delay.
Table 5. Recommendations for Management of Neurologic Toxicity, Excluding ICANS
Severity of Neurologic Toxicity Recommendations (Excluding ICANS) Grade 1 Withhold elranatamab until neurologic toxicity symptoms resolve or stabilize Grade 2 orgrade 3 (first occurence) Withholdelranatamab until neurologic symptoms improve to grade 1 or less Provide supportive therapy Grade 3 (recurrent) or grade 4 Permanently discontinueelranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care
Refer to Table 6 for the management of other toxicities, including hematologic adverse reactions,infections, and other non-hematologic adverse reactions.
Table 6. Recommendations for Management of Other Adverse Reactions
Adverse Reaction Severity Recommendations Hematologic adverse Absolute neutrophil Withhold elranatamab reactions count <0.5 x 109/L until absolute neutrophil count is >=0.5 x 109/L Hematologic adverse Febrile neutropenia Withhold elranatamab reactions until absolute neutrophil count is >=1 x 109/L and fever resolves Hematologic adverse Hemoglobin <8 g/dL Withhold elranatamab reactions until hemoglobin is >=8 g/dL Hematologic adverse Platelet count Withhold elranatamab reactions <25,000/mcL,orbetween until platelet count is 25,000/mcL and >=25,000/mcL and no 50,000/mcL with bleeding evidence of bleeding Infections and other Grade 3 Withhold elranatamab non-hematologic adverse until adverse reaction reactions improves tograde 1 or less, or baseline Infections and other Grade 4 Consider permanent non-hematologic adverse discontinuation reactions ofelranatamab If not permanently discontinued, withhold subsequent treatment doses (doses administered after step-up dosing schedule) until adverse reaction improves to grade 1 or less
Based on National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE), Version 5.0.
Refer toTable 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab-bcmm after a dose delay.
If a dose is delayed, restart therapy based on recommendations in Table 2 and resume the dosing schedule accordingly. Administer premedications as indicated in Table 2.
Table 2. Recommendations for Restarting Therapy with Elranatamab after Dosage Delay
Last Dose Administered Time Since Last Dose Recommendations Administered Step-up dose 1 (12 mg) 2 weeks or less (<=14 Restart at step-up dose days) 2 (32 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 4 days later.
Step-up dose 1 (12 mg) Greater than 2 weeks Restart at step-up dose (>14 days) 1 (12 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) 2 weeks or less (<=14 Restart at 76 mg. days) Administer pre-medications prior to the dose.
Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) Greater than 2 weeks to Restart at step-up dose less than or equal to 4 2 (32 mg). Administer weeks (15 days to <=28 pre-medications prior to days) the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 1 week later.
Step-up dose 2 (32 mg) Greater than 4 weeks Restart at step-up dose (>28 days) 1 (12 mg). Administer pre-medications prior to the dose. Any treatment dose (76 6 weeks or less (<=42 Restart at 76 mg. mg) days) Any treatment dose (76 Greater than 6 weeks to Restart at step-up dose mg) less than or equal to 12 2 (32 mg).
Administer weeks (43 days to <=84 pre-medications prior to days) the dose. If tolerated, increase to 76 mg 1 week later. Any treatment dose (76 Greater than 12 weeks Restart at step-up dose mg) (>84 days) 1 (12 mg).
Administer pre-medications prior to the dose.
Consider the risks and benefits of restartingelranatamab in patients who require a dosage delay of >42 days due to an adverse reaction.
Dosage reductions ofelranatamab-bcmm are not recommended.
Dosage delays may be required to manage toxicities related toelranatamab. Refer to Table 2 for recommendations on restartingafter a dose delay.
If CRS is suspected, withhold elranatamab until CRS resolves. Manage CRS according to the recommendations in Table 3 and consider further management in accordance with current practice guidelines. Administer supportive therapy for CRS, which may include intensive care for severe or life-threatening CRS.
Consider laboratory testing to monitor for disseminated intravascular coagulation, hematology parameters, as well as pulmonary, cardiac, renal, and hepatic function.
Table 3. Recommendations for Management of CRS
Grade Presenting Symptoms Recommendations Grade 1 Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab until CRS resolves Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 2 Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab witheither: until CRS resolves Monitor daily for 48 hours following the next dose Instruct patients to remain within proximity of a healthcare facility, and consider hospitalization Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 3 (first Temperature>=38degreesC Withholdelranatamab ocurrence) witheither: until CRS resolves Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Hospitalize patients for 48 hours following the next dose of elranatamab-bcmm Administer pretreatment medications prior to next dose Grade 3 (recurrent) Temperature>=38degreesC Permanentlydiscontinue witheither: elranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Grade 4 Temperature>=38degreesC Permanentlydiscontinue witheither: elranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care
Based onAmerican Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) 2019 grading criteria for CRS.
Attributed to CRS; fever may not always be present concurrently with hypotension or hypoxia as itmay be masked by interventions such as antipyretics or anti-cytokine therapy.
Low-flow nasal cannula is <=6 L/min; high-flow nasal cannula is >6 L/min.
Refer to Table 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab-bcmm after a dose delay.
Refer to Tables 4 and 5 for the management of ICANS and neurologic toxicity (excluding ICANS), respectively.
At the first sign of neurologic toxicity (including ICANS), withhold elranatamab and consider neurology evaluation. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care, for severe or life-threatening neurologic toxicities, including ICANS.
Manage ICANS according to the recommendations in Table 4 and consider further management in accordance with current practice guidelines.
Table 4. Recommendations for Management of ICANS
Grade Presenting Symptoms Recommendations Grade 1 ICE Score 7-9, OR Withhold Depressed level of elranatamab-bcmm until consciousness (not ICANS resolves Monitor attributable to any neurologic symptoms and other cause); awakens considerconsultation spontaneously with neurologist and otherspecialists for further evaluation andmanagement Consider non-sedating, anti-seizuremedications (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis Grade 2 ICE Score 3-6, OR Withhold elranatamab Depressed level of until ICANS resolves consciousness (not Administer dexamethasone attributable to any (or equivalent drug) 10 other cause); awakens to mg IV every 6 voice hours;continue dexamethasone use until resolution to grade 1 or less, then taper Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologis t and other specialists for further evaluation and management Consider non-sedating, anti-seizure medications (e.g., levetiracetam) for seizure prophylaxis Monitor daily for 48 hours following the nextelranatamab-bcmm dose Instruct patient to remain withi n proximity of a healthcare facility and consider hospitalization Grade 3 (first ICE Score 0-2, OR Withhold elranatamab occurrence) Depressed level of until ICANS resolves consciousness (not Administer dexamethasone attributable to any (or equivalent drug) 10 other cause); awakens mg IV every 6 only to tactile hours;continue stimulus,OR Seizures dexamethasone use until (not attributable to any resolution to grade 1 or other cause),either: any less, then taper Monitor clinical seizure, focal neurologic symptoms and or generalized, that consider consultation resolves rapidly, with neurologis ornon-c onvulsive seizures on t and other specialists EEG that resolve with for further evaluation intervention, OR Raised and management Consider intracranial pressure: non-sedating, focal/local edema on anti-seizure medications neuroimaging (not (e.g., levetiracetam) attributable to any for seizure prophylaxis other cause) Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Hospitalize patients for 48 hours foll owing the nextelranatamab-bcmm dose Grade 3 (recurrent) ICE Score 0-2, OR Permanently discontinue Depressed level of elranatamab Administer consciousness (not dexamethasone (or attributable to any equivalent drug) 10 mg other cause); awakens IV every 6 hours; only to tactile continue dexamethasone stimulus,OR Seizures use until resolution to (not attributable to any grade 1 or less, then other cause),either: any taper Monitor neurologic clinical seizure, focal symptoms and consider or generalized, that consultation with resolves rapidly, neurologist and ornon-c onvulsive seizures on other specialists for EEG that resolve with further evaluation and intervention, OR Raised management Consider intracranial pressure: non-sedating, focal/local edema on anti-seizure medications neuroimaging (not (e.g., levetiracetam) attributable to any for seizure prophylaxis other cause) Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care Grade 4 ICE Score 0, OR Depressed level of consciousness (not attributable to any other cause),either:unarousabl e or requires vigorous or repetitive tactile stimuli to arouse, orstupor or coma,OR Seizures (not attributable to any other cause),either: life-threate ning prolonged seizure Permanently (>5 minutes), or discontinueelranatamab repetitive clinical or Administer dexamethasone electrical seizures (or equivalent drug) 10 without return to mg IV every 6 baseline in between,OR hours;continue Motor findings (not dexamethasone use until attributable to any resolution to grade 1 or other cause): deep focal less, then taper. motor weakness such as Alternatively, consider hemiparesis or administration of paraparesis,OR Raised methylprednisolone 1000 intracr mg per da anial pressure/cerebral y IV for 3 days Monitor edema (not attributable neurologic symptoms and to any other cause), consider consultation with signs/symptoms such with neurologist and as diffuse cerebral other specialists for edema on neuroimaging, further evaluation and or decerebrate or management Consider decorticate posturing, non-sedating, or cranial nerve VI anti-seizure medications palsy, or papilledema, (e.g., levetiracetam) or Cushing's triad. for seizure prophylaxis Provide suppor tive therapy, which may include intensive care
Based on American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) 2019 grading criteria for ICANS.
Management is based on most severe event, not attributable to other cause.
If patient is arousable and able to perform Immune Effector Cell-Associated Encephalopathy (ICE)Assessment, assess: Orientation (oriented to year, month, city, hospital = 4 points); Naming(name 3 objects, e.g., point to clock, pen, button = 3 points); Following Commands (e.g., ''showme 2 fingers'' or ''close your eyes and stick out your tongue'' = 1 point); Writing (ability to write astandard sentence = 1 point); and Attention (count backwards from 100 by 10 = 1 point). Ifpatient is unarousable and unable to perform ICE Assessment (Grade 4 ICANS) = 0 points.
Refer toTable 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab after a dose delay.
Table 5. Recommendations for Management of Neurologic Toxicity, Excluding ICANS
Severity of Neurologic Toxicity Recommendations (Excluding ICANS) Grade 1 Withhold elranatamab until neurologic toxicity symptoms resolve or stabilize Grade 2 orgrade 3 (first occurence) Withholdelranatamab until neurologic symptoms improve to grade 1 or less Provide supportive therapy Grade 3 (recurrent) or grade 4 Permanently discontinueelranatamab Provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care
Refer to Table 6 for the management of other toxicities, including hematologic adverse reactions,infections, and other non-hematologic adverse reactions.
Table 6. Recommendations for Management of Other Adverse Reactions
Adverse Reaction Severity Recommendations Hematologic adverse Absolute neutrophil Withhold elranatamab reactions count <0.5 x 109/L until absolute neutrophil count is >=0.5 x 109/L Hematologic adverse Febrile neutropenia Withhold elranatamab reactions until absolute neutrophil count is >=1 x 109/L and fever resolves Hematologic adverse Hemoglobin <8 g/dL Withhold elranatamab reactions until hemoglobin is >=8 g/dL Hematologic adverse Platelet count Withhold elranatamab reactions <25,000/mcL,orbetween until platelet count is 25,000/mcL and >=25,000/mcL and no 50,000/mcL with bleeding evidence of bleeding Infections and other Grade 3 Withhold elranatamab non-hematologic adverse until adverse reaction reactions improves tograde 1 or less, or baseline Infections and other Grade 4 Consider permanent non-hematologic adverse discontinuation reactions ofelranatamab If not permanently discontinued, withhold subsequent treatment doses (doses administered after step-up dosing schedule) until adverse reaction improves to grade 1 or less
Based on National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE), Version 5.0.
Refer toTable 2 for recommendations on restartingelranatamab-bcmm after a dose delay.
Elranatamab-bcmm is administered by subcutaneous administration by a healthcare professional; only qualified healthcare professionals with sufficient and appropriate medical support to manage severe reactions such as CRS and neurologic toxicity (including ICANS) should administerelranatamab-bcmm. Elranatamab-bcmm is available as a solution supplied in a single-dose vial containing 76 mg/1.9 mL (40 mg/mL) or44 mg/1.1
mL (40 mg/mL). The vials do not contain any preservatives and are for one-time use in a single patient. Administer the drug according to the step-up dosing schedule to reduce the incidence and severity of CRS.
Administer the following pretreatment medications approximately 1 hour before the first 3 doses in the elranatamab-bcmm step-up dosing schedule, which includes step-up dose 1, step-up dose 2, and the first treatment dose, to reduce the risk of CRS: acetaminophen (or equivalent) 650 mg orally, dexamethasone (or equivalent) 20 mg orally or IV, and diphenhydramine (or equivalent) 25 mg orally. Due to the risk of CRS, hospitalize patients for 48 hours after administration of the first step-up dose, and for 24 hours after the second step-up dose. Use aseptic technique for preparation and administration.
Elranatamab-bcmm is supplied as a ready-to-use solution; dilution isnotrequired prior to administration. Depending on the required dose, use a 44 mg/1.1 mL (40 mg/mL) single-dose vial for step-up doses 1 or 2, and a 76 mg/1.9
mL (40 mg/mL) single-dose vial for treatment doses. The injection volumes are as follows: 0.3 mL for a total dose of 12 mg, 0.8
mL for a total dose of 32 mg, and 1.9 mL for a total dose of 76 mg. Store elranatamab-bcmm under refrigeration at 2-8degreesC in the original carton to protect from light; do not freeze or shake.
To prepare, remove the appropriate strength vial from the refrigerator and allow to equilibrate to ambient temperature (15-30degreesC); do not warm the vial in any other manner. Once equilibrated, withdraw the required injection volume from the vial into an appropriately sized syringe with stainless steel injection needles (30G or wider) and polypropylene or polycarbonate syringe material; discard unused portions of the drug. If the prepared dose syringe is not used immediately, store the syringe between2-8degreesC for a maximum of 4 hours.
Prior to administration, inspect the drug visually. The solution should be colorless to pale brown; do not use if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. The preferred injection site is the abdomen; the drug may also be injected intosubcutaneoous tissue at other sites (e.g., thigh). Do not inject into tattoos, scars, or areas where the skin may be red, bruised, tender, hard, or not intact.
mL (40 mg/mL). The vials do not contain any preservatives and are for one-time use in a single patient. Administer the drug according to the step-up dosing schedule to reduce the incidence and severity of CRS.
Administer the following pretreatment medications approximately 1 hour before the first 3 doses in the elranatamab-bcmm step-up dosing schedule, which includes step-up dose 1, step-up dose 2, and the first treatment dose, to reduce the risk of CRS: acetaminophen (or equivalent) 650 mg orally, dexamethasone (or equivalent) 20 mg orally or IV, and diphenhydramine (or equivalent) 25 mg orally. Due to the risk of CRS, hospitalize patients for 48 hours after administration of the first step-up dose, and for 24 hours after the second step-up dose. Use aseptic technique for preparation and administration.
Elranatamab-bcmm is supplied as a ready-to-use solution; dilution isnotrequired prior to administration. Depending on the required dose, use a 44 mg/1.1 mL (40 mg/mL) single-dose vial for step-up doses 1 or 2, and a 76 mg/1.9
mL (40 mg/mL) single-dose vial for treatment doses. The injection volumes are as follows: 0.3 mL for a total dose of 12 mg, 0.8
mL for a total dose of 32 mg, and 1.9 mL for a total dose of 76 mg. Store elranatamab-bcmm under refrigeration at 2-8degreesC in the original carton to protect from light; do not freeze or shake.
To prepare, remove the appropriate strength vial from the refrigerator and allow to equilibrate to ambient temperature (15-30degreesC); do not warm the vial in any other manner. Once equilibrated, withdraw the required injection volume from the vial into an appropriately sized syringe with stainless steel injection needles (30G or wider) and polypropylene or polycarbonate syringe material; discard unused portions of the drug. If the prepared dose syringe is not used immediately, store the syringe between2-8degreesC for a maximum of 4 hours.
Prior to administration, inspect the drug visually. The solution should be colorless to pale brown; do not use if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. The preferred injection site is the abdomen; the drug may also be injected intosubcutaneoous tissue at other sites (e.g., thigh). Do not inject into tattoos, scars, or areas where the skin may be red, bruised, tender, hard, or not intact.
No dosing information available.
No generic dosing information available.
The following drug interaction information is available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
There are 4 contraindications.
These drug combinations generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. A manufacturer label warning that indicates the contraindication warrants inclusion of a drug combination in this category, regardless of clinical evidence or lack of clinical evidence to support the contraindication.
| Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
|---|---|
| Efalizumab; Natalizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Natalizumab,(1-3) efalizumab,(4) immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of natalizumab(1-3) or efalizumab(4) with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV). PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Previous JCV infection, longer duration of natalizumab treatment - especially if greater than 2 years, and prior or concomitant treatment with immunosuppressant medication are all independent risk factors which increase the risk for PML.(1,5) The FDA has estimated PML incidence stratified by risk factors: If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence <1/1,000. If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence 2/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 4/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 11/1,000. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of natalizumab states patients with Crohn's disease should not receive concurrent immunosuppressants, with the exception of limited overlap of corticosteroids, due to the increased risk for PML. For new natalizumab patients currently receiving chronic oral corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease, begin corticosteroid taper when therapeutic response to natalizumab has occurred. If corticosteroids cannot be discontinued within six months of starting natalizumab, discontinue natalizumab.(3) The US manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not ordinarily be used in multiple sclerosis patients receiving immunosuppressants or immunomodulators due to the increased risk for PML. Immunosuppressives include, but are not limited to azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, mycophenolate, and corticosteroids.(3,6) The UK manufacturer of natalizumab states that concurrent use with immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents is contraindicated.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not be used with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents.(2) The US manufacturer of certolizumab states that concurrent therapy with natalizumab is not recommended.(7) DISCUSSION: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy has been reported in patients receiving concurrent natalizumab were recently or concomitantly taking immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-5,8,9) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(10) |
TYSABRI |
| Live Vaccines; Live BCG/Selected Immunosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: A variety of disease modifying agents suppress the immune system. Immunocompromised patients may be at increased risk for uninhibited replication after administration of live, attenuated vaccines or intravesicular BCG. Immune response to vaccines may be decreased during periods of immunocompromise.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1) After instillation of intravesicular BCG, immunosuppression may interfere with local immune response, or increase the severity of mycobacterial infection following inadvertent systemic exposure.(2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. hematologic malignancies, HIV disease), treatments (e.g. radiation) and drugs may all increase the magnitude of immunodeficiency. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are immunocompromised. The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks should be determined by a physician.(1) For patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy, vaccination should ideally precede the initiation of chemotherapy by 14 days. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy.(1) Patients who receive anti-B cell therapies should not receive live vaccines for at least 6 months after such therapies due to a prolonged duration of immunosuppression. An exception is the Zoster vaccine, which can be given at least 1 month after receipt of anti-B cell therapies.(1) The US manufacturer of abatacept states live vaccines should not be given during or for up to 3 months after discontinuation of abatacept.(2) The US manufacturer of live BCG for intravesicular treatment of bladder cancer states use is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(3) The US manufacturer of daclizumab states live vaccines are not recommended during and for up to 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.(4) The US manufacturer of guselkumab states that live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with guselkumab.(5) The US manufacturer of inebilizumab-cdon states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion. Administer all live vaccinations at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of inebilizumab-cdon.(6) The US manufacturer of ocrelizumab states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell repletion occurs after discontinuation of therapy. Administer all live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ocrelizumab.(7) The US manufacturer of ozanimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for up to 3 months after discontinuation of ozanimod.(8) The US manufacturer of siponimod states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.(9) The US manufacturer of ustekinumab states BCG vaccines should not be given in the year prior to, during, or the year after ustekinumab therapy.(10) The US manufacturer of satralizumab-mwge states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and should be administered at least four weeks prior to initiation of satralizumab-mwge.(11) The US manufacturer of ublituximab-xiiy states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ublituximab-xiiy.(12) The US manufacturer of etrasimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for 5 weeks after treatment. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of etrasimod.(13) The US manufacturer of emapalumab-lzsg states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving emapalumab-lzsg and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of emapalumab-lzsg. The safety of immunization with live vaccines during or following emapalumab-lzsg therapy has not been studied.(14) DISCUSSION: Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1) Patients with a history of leukemia who are in remission and have not received chemotherapy for at least 3 months are not considered to be immunocompromised.(1) |
ACAM2000 (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4 AND TYPE 7, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 7, BCG (TICE STRAIN), BCG VACCINE (TICE STRAIN), DENGVAXIA, ERVEBO (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), FLUMIST 2025-2026, FLUMIST HOME 2025-2026, IXCHIQ, M-M-R II VACCINE, PRIORIX, PROQUAD, ROTARIX, ROTATEQ, STAMARIL, VARIVAX VACCINE, VAXCHORA ACTIVE COMPONENT, VAXCHORA VACCINE, VIVOTIF, YF-VAX |
| Talimogene laherparepvec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Talimogene laherparepvec is a live, attenuated herpes simplex virus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Talimogene laherparepvec is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(1) The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks due to immunosuppressant drugs should be determined by a physician. DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1) |
IMLYGIC |
| Nadofaragene Firadenovec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nadofaragene firadenovec may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of nadofaragene firadenovec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause disseminated adenovirus infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not receive nadofaragene firadenovec.(1) DISCUSSION: Nadofaragene firadenovec is a non-replicating adenoviral vector-based gene therapy but may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus. Immunocompromised persons, including those receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may be at risk for disseminated adenovirus infection.(1) |
ADSTILADRIN |
There are 21 severe interactions.
These drug interactions can produce serious consequences in most patients. Actions required for severe interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration scheduling, and providing additional patient monitoring. Review the full interaction monograph for more information.
| Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
|---|---|
| Deferiprone/Selected Myelosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of deferiprone with other drugs known to be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis may increase the frequency or risk for severe toxicity.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents may result in severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis, which may be fatal. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Agranulocytosis may be less common in patients receiving deferiprone for thalassemia, and more common in patients treated for other systemic iron overload conditions (e.g. myelodysplastic syndromes, sickle cell disease).(2,3) Inadequate monitoring appears to increase the risk for severe outcomes. Manufacturer post market surveillance found that in all fatal cases of agranulocytosis reported between 1999 and 2005, data on weekly white blood count (WBC) monitoring was missing. In three fatal cases, deferiprone was continued for two to seven days after the detection of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, discontinue one of the drugs associated with risk for neutropenia or agranulocytosis. If alternative therapy is not available, documentation and adherence to the deferiprone monitoring protocol is essential. Baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) must be at least 1,500/uL prior to starting deferiprone. Monitor ANC weekly during therapy. If infection develops, interrupt deferiprone therapy and monitor ANC more frequently. If ANC is less than 1,500/uL but greater than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone and any other drugs possibly associated with neutropenia. Initiate ANC and platelet counts daily until recovery (i.e. ANC at least 1,500/uL). If ANC is less than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone, evaluate patient and hospitalize if appropriate. Do not resume deferiprone unless potential benefits outweigh potential risks.(1) DISCUSSION: Drugs linked to this monograph have an FDA Boxed Warning for risk of neutropenia, agranulocytosis, or pancytopenia, or have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(1-25) In pooled clinical studies submitted to the FDA, 6.1% of deferiprone patients met criteria for neutropenia and 1.7% of patients developed agranulocytosis.(1) The time to onset of agranulocytosis was highly variable with a range of 65 days to 9.2 years (median, 161 days).(3) |
DEFERIPRONE, DEFERIPRONE (3 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX, FERRIPROX (2 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX (3 TIMES A DAY) |
| Tofacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants use may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Tofacitinib should not be used concurrently with azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or cyclosporine.(1) Patient should be monitored for decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils. Therapy should be adjusted based on the indication. - For all indications: If absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or lymphocyte count is less than 500 cells/mm3, discontinue tofacitinib. - For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily or Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily. - For ulcerative colitis and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: -If taking Xeljanz 10 mg twice daily, decrease to 5 mg twice daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 10 mg twice daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 5 mg twice daily. -If taking Xeljanz XR 22 mg once daily, decrease to 11 mg once daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 22 mg once daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 11 mg once daily. - For polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3.(1) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.(1) |
TOFACITINIB CITRATE, XELJANZ, XELJANZ XR |
| Clozapine/Selected Myelosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Clozapine and other myelosuppressive agents may be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Moderate neutropenia, even if due to combination therapy, may require abrupt discontinuation of clozapine resulting in decompensation of the patient's psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia). The disease treated by the myelosuppressive agent may be compromised if myelosuppression requires dose reduction, delay, or discontinuation of the myelosuppressive agent. Undetected severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis may be fatal. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Low white blood counts prior to initiation of the myelosuppressive agent may increase risk for clinically significant neutropenia. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If a patient stabilized on clozapine therapy requires treatment with a myelosuppressive agent, the clozapine prescriber should consult with prescriber of the myelosuppressive agent (e.g. oncologist) to discuss treatment and monitoring options.(2) More frequent ANC monitoring or treatment alternatives secondary to neutropenic episodes may need to be considered. Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) prior to dispensing.(1-2) For most clozapine patients, clozapine treatment must be interrupted for a suspected clozapine-induced ANC < 1000 cells/microliter. For patients with benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN), treatment must be interrupted for suspected clozapine-induced neutropenia < 500 cells/microliter.(2) DISCUSSION: Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the ANC prior to dispensing.(1) Agents linked to this interaction generally have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(3-26) |
CLOZAPINE, CLOZAPINE ODT, CLOZARIL, VERSACLOZ |
| Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents/Immunosuppressants; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ocrelizumab or ofatumumab in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ocrelizumab or ofatumumab with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ocrelizumab US prescribing information states: - Ocrelizumab and other immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies, (including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with ocrelizumab. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as daclizumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ocrelizumab.(1) The ofatumumab US prescribing information states: - Ofatumumab and other immunosuppressive therapies (including systemic corticosteroids) may have the potential for increased immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. When switching between therapies, the duration and mechanism of action of each therapy should be considered due to the potential for additive immunosuppressive effects. Ofatumumab for MS therapy has not been studied in combination with other MS agents that suppress the immune system.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(3) |
KESIMPTA PEN, OCREVUS, OCREVUS ZUNOVO |
| Upadacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Upadacitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of upadacitinib states that concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators is not recommended. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. Reported infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, tuberculosis, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcosis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation and hepatitis B reactivation, were reported in clinical studies with upadacitinib.(1) |
RINVOQ, RINVOQ LQ |
| Inebilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inebilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in myelosuppression including neutropenia resulting in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of inebilizumab states that the concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive agents, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Inebilizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents. The most common infections reported by inebilizumab treated patients in the randomized and open-label clinical trial periods included urinary tract infections (20%), nasopharyngitis (13%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), and influenza (7%). Although there been no cases of Hepatitis B virus reactivation or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy reported in patients taking inebilizumab, these infections have been observed in patients taking other B-cell-depleting antibodies.(1) |
UPLIZNA |
| Baricitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of baricitinib states that concurrent use of baricitinib with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Most patients who developed serious infections while being treated with baricitinib were on concomitant immunosuppressants like methotrexate and corticosteroids. The combination of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs has not been studied.(1) |
OLUMIANT |
| Leflunomide; Teriflunomide/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide and potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1,2) Leflunomide is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite teriflunomide.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide with immunosuppressants may result in an increased risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis (including extra-pulmonary tuberculosis), and aspergillosis. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If leflunomide or teriflunomide is used concurrently with immunosuppressive agents, chronic CBC monitoring should be performed more frequently, every month instead of every 6 to 8 weeks. If bone marrow suppression or a serious infection occurs, leflunomide or teriflunomide should be stopped and rapid drug elimination procedure should be performed.(1,2) DISCUSSION: Pancytopenia, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide alone, but most frequently in patients taking concurrent immunosuppressants.(1,2) Severe and potentially fatal infections, including sepsis, have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and aspergillosis. Tuberculosis has also been reported.(1,2) |
ARAVA, AUBAGIO, LEFLUNICLO, LEFLUNOMIDE, TERIFLUNOMIDE |
| Ponesimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ponesimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1) |
PONVORY |
| Sodium Iodide I 131/Myelosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium iodide I 131 can cause depression of the hematopoetic system. Myelosuppressives and immunomodulators also suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium iodide I 131 with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives or immunomodulators, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sodium iodide I 131 states that concurrent use with bone marrow depressants may enhance the depression of the hematopoetic system caused by large doses of sodium iodide I 131.(1) Sodium iodide I 131 causes a dose-dependent bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, in the 3 to 5 weeks following administration. Patients may be at increased risk of infections or bleeding during this time. Monitor complete blood counts within one month of therapy. If results indicate leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, dosimetry should be used to determine a safe sodium iodide I 131 activity.(1) DISCUSSION: Hematologic disorders including death have been reported with sodium iodide I 131. The most common hematologic disorders reported include anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.(1) |
HICON, SODIUM IODIDE I-131 |
| Fingolimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for fingolimod regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The fingolimod US prescribing information states: - Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies, (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with fingolimod. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating fingolimod.(1) The fingolimod Canadian prescribing information states: - Concurrent use with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents is contraindicated due to the risk of additive immune system effects. However, co-administration of a short course of corticosteroids (up to 5 days) did not increase the overall rate of infection in patients participating Phase III clinical trials.(2) The fingolimod UK specific product characteristics states: - Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients currently receiving immunosuppressive therapies or those immunocompromised by prior therapies. When switching patients from another disease modifying therapy to Gilenya, the half-life and mode of action of the other therapy must be considered in order to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimizing the risk of disease activation.(3) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3) |
FINGOLIMOD, GILENYA, TASCENSO ODT |
| Ozanimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ozanimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1) |
ZEPOSIA |
| Siponimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of siponimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1) |
MAYZENT |
| Cladribine/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The cladribine US prescribing information states: -Concomitant use with myelosuppressive or other immunosuppressive drugs is not recommended. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered. In patients who have previously been treated with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs, consider potential additive effect, the mode of action, and duration of effect of the other drugs prior to initiation of cladribine.(1) The cladribine Canadian prescribing information states: -Use of cladribine in immunocompromised patients is contraindicated because of a risk of additive effects on the immune system. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered during cladribine treatment.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-2) |
CLADRIBINE, MAVENCLAD |
| IgG Antibodies and Derivatives/Efgartigimod-alfa SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) prevents catabolism and mediates recycling of IgG and albumin, which leads to their long persistence in the body.(1,2) Efgartigimod-alfa binds to FcRn and may decrease systemic exposure of other ligands of FcRn, like immunoglobulins and IgG-based antibodies.(3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The effectiveness of medicines that bind to FcRn may be decreased.(3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of efgartigimod-alfa states that efgartigimod-alfa should not be combined with long-term use of FcRn-binding medications. If the medication is essential for the patient, efgartigimod-alfa should be discontinued.(3) DISCUSSION: Clinical drug interaction studies with efgartigimod-alfa have not been performed. Efgartigimod-alfa may decrease concentrations of compounds that bind to the human FcRn.(3) |
VYVGART, VYVGART HYTRULO |
| Anifrolumab/Biologic Therapies SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of anifrolumab with other biologic therapies may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of anifrolumab with other biologic therapies may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of anifrolumab with other biologic therapies is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: The combination of anifrolumab with other biologic therapies has not been studied and is not recommended.(1) |
SAPHNELO |
| Ritlecitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritlecitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritlecitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ritlecitinib states that concurrent use of ritlecitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving ritlecitinib. Reported infections included appendicitis, COVID-19 infection (including pneumonia), and sepsis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation was reported in clinical studies with ritlecitinib.(1) |
LITFULO |
| Etrasimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications increases the risk of adverse effects. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1) |
VELSIPITY |
| Ropeginterferon alfa-2b/Slt Immunosuppress; Immunomodulator SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropeginterferon alfa-2b and immunosuppressives both suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b with immunosuppressives may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of myelosuppressive agents.(1-2) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor for effects of excessive immunosuppression. DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 20% of patients experienced leukopenia. Interferon alfa products may cause fatal or life-threatening infections.(1-2) |
BESREMI |
| Deuruxolitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deuruxolitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deuruxolitinib and potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states that concurrent use of deuruxolitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection. If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt deuruxolitinib treatment until the infection is controlled. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving treatment with deuruxolitinib.(1) |
LEQSELVI |
| IgG Antibodies and Derivatives/Nipocalimab-aahu SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) prevents catabolism and mediates recycling of IgG and albumin, which leads to their long persistence in the body.(1,2) Nipocalimab-aahu binds to FcRn and may decrease systemic exposure of other ligands of FcRn, like immunoglobulins and IgG-based antibodies.(3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The effectiveness of medicines that bind to FcRn may be decreased.(3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of nipocalimab-aahu states that nipocalimab-aahu should not be combined with long-term use of FcRn-binding medications. If the medication is essential for the patient, nipocalimab-aahu should be discontinued.(3) DISCUSSION: Clinical drug interaction studies with nipocalimab-aahu have not been performed. Nipocalimab-aahu may decrease concentrations of compounds that bind to the human FcRn.(3) |
IMAAVY |
There are 7 moderate interactions.
The clinician should assess the patient’s characteristics and take action as needed. Actions required for moderate interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration.
| Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
|---|---|
| Ustekinumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ustekinumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ustekinumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Ustekinumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants in psoriasis studies. In psoriatic arthritis studies, concomitant methotrexate use did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis studies, concomitant use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by ustekinumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included nasopharyngitis(8%) and upper respiratory tract infection(5%). Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ustekinumab. Cases of interstitial pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia resulting in respiratory failure or prolonged hospitalization have been reported in patients receiving ustekinumab.(1) |
IMULDOSA, OTULFI, PYZCHIVA, SELARSDI, STELARA, STEQEYMA, USTEKINUMAB, USTEKINUMAB-AEKN, USTEKINUMAB-TTWE, WEZLANA, YESINTEK |
| COVID-19 Vaccines/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators may prevent the immune system from properly responding to the COVID-19 vaccine.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators may interfere with vaccine-induced immune response and impair the efficacy of the vaccine. However, patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In an effort to optimize COVID-19 vaccine response, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) published conditional recommendations for administration of COVID-19 vaccines with immunosuppressants and immunomodulators.(1) The CDC also provides clinical considerations for COVID-19 vaccination in patients on immunosuppressants.(2) The CDC states that all immunocompromised patients over 6 months of age should receive at least 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine if eligible. See the CDC's Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for specific recommendations based on age, vaccination history, and vaccine manufacturer.(2) The ACR states that in general, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators should be held for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose. See below for specific recommendations for certain agents.(1) The CDC advises planning for vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or resuming immunosuppressive therapy.(2) Patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) B-cell depleting agents, including rituximab: The ACR recommends consulting with the rheumatologist to determine optimal timing of COVID-19 vaccination. Measuring CD19 B cells may be considered to determine need for a booster vaccine dose. If B cell levels are not measured, a supplemental vaccine dose 2-4 weeks before the next scheduled dose of rituximab is recommended.(1) The CDC states that the utility of B-cell quantification to guide clinical care is not known and is not recommended. Patients who receive B-cell depleting therapy should receive COVID-19 vaccines about 4 weeks before the next scheduled dose. For patients who received 1 or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine during treatment with B-cell-depleting therapies that were administered over a limited period (e.g., as part of a treatment regimen for certain malignancies), revaccination may be considered. The suggested interval to start revaccination is about 6 months after completion of the B-cell-depleting therapy.(2) Abatacept: - Subcutaneous abatacept should be withheld for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose, as disease activity allows. - For intravenous abatacept, time administration so that vaccination will occur 1 week before the next abatacept infusion.(1) Cyclophosphamide: When feasible, administer cyclophosphamide one week after each COVID-19 vaccine dose.(1) Recipients of hematopoietic cell transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy who received one or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine prior to or during treatment should undergo revaccination following the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. Revaccination should start at least 3 months (12 weeks) after transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy.(2) TNF-alpha inhibitors and cytokine inhibitors: The ACR was not able to reach consensus on whether to modify dosing or timing of these agents with COVID-19 vaccination.(1) The CDC includes these agents in their general recommendation to hold therapy for at least 2 weeks following vaccination.(2) DISCUSSION: The ACR convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance Task Force to provide guidance on optimal use of COVID-19 vaccines in rheumatology patients. These recommendations are based on limited clinical evidence of COVID-19 vaccines in patients without rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders and evidence of other vaccines in this patient population.(1) The ACR recommendation for rituximab is based on studies of humoral immunity following receipt of other vaccines. These studies have uncertain generalizability to vaccination against COVID-19, as it is unknown if efficacy is attributable to induction of host T cells versus B cell (antibody-based) immunity.(1) The ACR recommendation for mycophenolate is based on preexisting data of mycophenolate on non-COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity. Emerging data suggests that mycophenolate may impair SARS-CoV-2 vaccine response in rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease and transplant patients.(1) The ACR recommendation for methotrexate is based on data from influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines with methotrexate.(1) The ACR recommendation for JAK inhibitors is based on concerns related to the effects of JAK inhibitors on interferon signaling that may result in a diminished vaccine response.(1) The ACR recommendation for subcutaneous abatacept is based on several studies suggesting a negative effect of abatacept on vaccine immunogenicity. The first vaccine dose primes naive T cells, naive T cell priming is inhibited by CTLA-4, and abatacept is a CTLA-4Ig construct. CTLA-4 should not inhibit boosts of already primed T cells at the time of the second vaccine dose.(1) |
COMIRNATY 2024-2025, MODERNA COVID 24-25(6M-11Y)EUA, NOVAVAX COVID 2024-2025 (EUA), PFIZER COVID 2024-25(5-11Y)EUA, PFIZER COVID 2024-25(6M-4Y)EUA, SPIKEVAX 2024-2025 |
| Sarilumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sarilumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sarilumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Sarilumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis studies. Sarilumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by sarilumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia and cellulitis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving sarilumab. Cases of tuberculosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystis with sarilumab have been reported.(1) |
KEVZARA |
| Ublituximab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ublituximab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ublituximab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ublituximab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ublituximab with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive agents, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents. When switching from agents with immune effects, the half-life and mechanism of action of these drugs must be taken into consideration in order to prevent additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) DISCUSSION: The most common infections reported by ublituximab-treated patients in the clinical trial periods included upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Serious, including life-threatening or fatal, bacterial and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ublituximab.(1) Serious and/or fatal bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections have been associated with other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. There were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported during the clinical trials; however, there have been reports of PML during or following completion of other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies.(1) |
BRIUMVI |
| Belimumab/Biologic Therapies SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of belimumab with other biologic therapies may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of belimumab with other biologic therapies may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of belimumab with other biologic therapies should be approached with caution.(1) DISCUSSION: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, more patients who received belimumab and rituximab experienced serious adverse events, serious infections, and post-injection systemic reactions (22.2%, 9%, and 13.2%, respectively) than patients who received belimumab with placebo (13.9%, 2.8%, 9.7%) or standard therapy (19.7%, 5.3%, 5.3%).(1) The combination of belimumab with other biologic therapies has not been studied and should be used cautiously.(1) |
BENLYSTA |
| IgG Antibodies and Derivatives/Rozanolixizumab-noli SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) prevents catabolism and mediates recycling of IgG and albumin, which leads to their long persistence in the body.(1,2) Rozanolixizumab-noli binds to FcRn and may decrease systemic exposure of other ligands of FcRn, like immunoglobulins and IgG-based antibodies.(3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The effectiveness of medications that bind to FcRn may be decreased.(3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of rozanolixizumab-noli states that concurrent use with medications that bind to the human neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) should be closely monitored for reduced effectiveness of these medications. If long-term use of such medications is essential for the patient, consider discontinuing rozanolixizumab-noli and use alternative therapies.(3) DISCUSSION: Clinical drug interaction studies with rozanolixizumab-noli have not been performed. Rozanolixizumab-noli may decrease concentrations of compounds that bind to the human FcRn.(3) |
RYSTIGGO |
| Tocilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tocilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tocilizumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Tocilizumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate, non-biologic DMARDs or corticosteroids, depending on the indication. Tocilizumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by tocilizumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, sepsis and bacterial arthritis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving tocilizumab. Cases of tuberculosis, cryptococcus, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystosis have been reported.(1) |
ACTEMRA, ACTEMRA ACTPEN, TOFIDENCE, TYENNE, TYENNE AUTOINJECTOR |
The following contraindication information is available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
Drug contraindication overview.
*None.
*None.
There are 1 contraindications.
Absolute contraindication.
| Contraindication List |
|---|
| Lactation |
There are 5 severe contraindications.
Adequate patient monitoring is recommended for safer drug use.
| Severe List |
|---|
| Anemia |
| Infection |
| Neutropenic disorder |
| Pregnancy |
| Thrombocytopenic disorder |
There are 0 moderate contraindications.
The following adverse reaction information is available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
Adverse reaction overview.
The most common adverse effects (incidence >=20%) of elranatamab in clinical trials were CRS, fatigue, injection site reaction, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, musculoskeletal pain, pneumonia, decreased appetite, rash, cough, nausea, and pyrexia.
The most common adverse effects (incidence >=20%) of elranatamab in clinical trials were CRS, fatigue, injection site reaction, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, musculoskeletal pain, pneumonia, decreased appetite, rash, cough, nausea, and pyrexia.
There are 19 severe adverse reactions.
| More Frequent | Less Frequent |
|---|---|
|
Abnormal hepatic function tests Anemia Cytokine release syndrome Infection Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr) Leukopenia Neutropenic disorder Pneumonia Thrombocytopenic disorder |
Accidental fall Cardiac arrhythmia Encephalopathy Hemorrhage Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome Motor dysfunction Sepsis |
| Rare/Very Rare |
|---|
|
Acute respiratory distress syndrome Guillain-barre syndrome Thrombotic disorder |
There are 25 less severe adverse reactions.
| More Frequent | Less Frequent |
|---|---|
|
Anorexia Cough Diarrhea Fatigue Fever Headache disorder Hypoalbuminemia Hypokalemia Increased alkaline phosphatase Injection site sequelae Lymphopenia Musculoskeletal pain Nausea Skin rash Upper respiratory infection |
Constipation Dry skin Dyspnea Edema Exfoliative dermatitis Hypogammaglobulinemia Insomnia Peripheral sensory neuropathy Urinary tract infection Vomiting |
| Rare/Very Rare |
|---|
| None. |
The following precautions are available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
Safety and efficacy of elranatamab have not been established in pediatric patients.
Contraindicated
Severe Precaution
Management or Monitoring Precaution
Contraindicated
| None |
Severe Precaution
| None |
Management or Monitoring Precaution
| None |
Based on the mechanism of action of elranatamab, fetal harm may occurwhen the drug is administered during pregnancy. No data are available on the use of elranatamab in pregnant women to evaluate for adrug-associated risk. No animal reproductive or developmental toxicity studies have been performed to date.
Elranatamab causes T-cell activation and cytokine release;immune activation may compromise the maintenance of pregnancy. Based on the finding ofB-cell depletion in non-pregnant animals, elranatamab can cause B-cell lymphocytopenia in infants exposed to the drug in-utero. Because human IgG is known to cross the placenta after the first trimester of pregnancy, there is potential for maternal transmission of elranatamab to the developing fetus.
Apprise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to the fetus. Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating treatment with elranatamab-bcmm. Elranatamab is associated with hypogammaglobulinemia; therefore, consider assessment ofimmunoglobulin levels in newborns of mothers treated with elranatamab.
Elranatamab causes T-cell activation and cytokine release;immune activation may compromise the maintenance of pregnancy. Based on the finding ofB-cell depletion in non-pregnant animals, elranatamab can cause B-cell lymphocytopenia in infants exposed to the drug in-utero. Because human IgG is known to cross the placenta after the first trimester of pregnancy, there is potential for maternal transmission of elranatamab to the developing fetus.
Apprise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to the fetus. Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating treatment with elranatamab-bcmm. Elranatamab is associated with hypogammaglobulinemia; therefore, consider assessment ofimmunoglobulin levels in newborns of mothers treated with elranatamab.
It is unknown whether elranatamab distributes into human milk, or affects the breast-fed child or the production of milk. Maternal IgG is known to bepresent in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse effects in the breast-fed child, advisewomen not to breast-feed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
In the elranatamab-bcmm clinical trial, 62% of patients treated with the drugwere >=65 years of age, and 19% were >=75 years of age. No overall differences in safety or efficacy were observed in patients 65-74 years of age compared to younger adults. Clinicalstudies did not include sufficient numbers of patients >=75 years of age to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients.
The following prioritized warning is available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm):
WARNING: Elranatamab may cause a certain serious (even fatal) side effect known as cytokine release syndrome-CRS. Careful monitoring and prompt treatment may decrease your risk. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or dizziness/lightheadedness.
This medication can also cause serious (even fatal) nervous system problems. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms such as confusion, trouble staying awake, changes in your handwriting, shaking, trouble speaking, or burning/throbbing/stabbing pain. To receive elranatamab in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
WARNING: Elranatamab may cause a certain serious (even fatal) side effect known as cytokine release syndrome-CRS. Careful monitoring and prompt treatment may decrease your risk. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or dizziness/lightheadedness.
This medication can also cause serious (even fatal) nervous system problems. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms such as confusion, trouble staying awake, changes in your handwriting, shaking, trouble speaking, or burning/throbbing/stabbing pain. To receive elranatamab in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
The following icd codes are available for ELREXFIO (elranatamab-bcmm)'s list of indications:
| Multiple myeloma | |
| C90.0 | Multiple myeloma |
| C90.00 | Multiple myeloma not having achieved remission |
| C90.02 | Multiple myeloma in relapse |
Formulary Reference Tool