Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (Injection)

Introduction

Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin (gem-TOO-zoo-mab oh-zoh-ga-MYE-sin)

Treats leukemia.

Brand Name(s)

Mylotarg

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to gemtuzumab, or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• This medicine is given slowly, so the needle will remain in place for about 2 hours.
• Drink extra fluids so you will pass more urine while you are using this medicine. This will keep your kidneys working well and help prevent kidney problems.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast-feeding, or if you have liver disease or lung disease.
• Cancer medicines can cause nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.
• Because of the possible side effects from this medicine, the doctor or nurse may want to observe you for several hours after you have received gemtuzumab. They may want to check your temperature and blood pressure, as well as your blood cells for unwanted effects. You may be given other medicines to treat or prevent the side effects.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, cough.
• Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate.
• Fever, chills, sore throat, and body aches.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Rapid weight gain.
• Sores or white patches on lips, mouth, or throat.
• Sudden and severe pain in the upper stomach, loss of appetite.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual weakness, bleeding, or bruising.
• Yellow skin or eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, or diarrhea.
• Headache, or trouble sleeping.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.