Polivy 140mg injection is a cancer medicine that contains the active component of polatuzumab vedotin, which belongs to the class of antibody-drug conjugates. It is used to treat diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a type of cancer originating from B lymphocytes, a white blood cell. It is always used together with other cancer medicines.
It is not recommended to take this medication if you are allergic to Polatuzumab vedotin or its components. Also, this medication is not recommended for anyone under 18 years old. Before starting this medication, you must inform your doctor if you have any active infection. Also, inform your doctor if you have recently been vaccinated or plan to receive a vaccination shortly. Additionally, make sure to tell your doctor if you have any kidney, liver, or heart problems or any other underlying health issues before taking this medication. A detailed overview of your medication history and medical background is crucial for safe and effective treatment.
Uses of Polivy 140mg Injection
Therapeutic Effects of Polivy 140mg Injection
Polivy 140mg injection works like a bomb: the drug has a guided part, the 'monoclonal antibody,' that specifically latches onto the cancer cells. Once attached, it releases a cancer-killing agent called 'MMAE' inside the B cells. This agent then disrupts the cancer cells' ability to divide and grow, leading to death. This targeted approach helps attack the cancer cells without affecting many healthy cells.
Interaction of Polivy 140mg Injection with other drugs
Inform your physician about all the prescribed medicine, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal supplements you have taken before. Certain medications may interact with Polivy 140mg injection and can cause undesirable side effects.
More Information about Polivy 140mg Injection
How to consume Polivy 140mg Injection
Polivy 140mg injection is available as an injection and administered intravenously (into a vein) by the healthcare provider on scheduled appointments. The frequency, duration, and dosage of the treatment with this medication are determined depending on the severity of your disease and other considerations by the healthcare provider. It is crucial to adhere to their scheduled appointments for safe and effective treatment. Take all scheduled doses. Do not stop the treatment on your own without a doctor's advice.
Safety Advices for Polivy 140mg Injection
Pregnancy
Polivy 140mg injection, when taken during pregnancy, can cause fetal harm. Hence, it is not recommended to take this medication if you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or think you may become pregnant.
Breast Feeding
Breastfeeding mothers are recommended not to take Polivy 140mg injection because it may be excreted in breast milk and could affect the infant. It is important to avoid breastfeeding during the course of treatment with this medication and for a minimum of three months after receiving the last dose.
Lungs
Pneumonia (lung infection)is the most common side effect of Polivy 140mg injection. Therefore, taking this medication is unsafe if you have any lung infections; inform your doctor about your lung condition before starting treatment with this medication.
Liver
Polivy 140mg injection may impact liver function and could lead to jaundice, sometimes without showing any symptoms. Therefore, it is advised that patients with liver impairments exercise caution or avoid taking this medication. It is important to discuss your liver health with your doctor before starting treatment with Polivy 140mg injection.
Alcohol
It is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while being treated with Polivy 140mg injection. Alcohol can impair the liver's capacity to metabolize drugs, and considering that this medication already has the potential to harm liver cells, combining it with alcohol could increase the risk of liver damage.
Driving
Polivy 140mg injection may affect your ability to drive, cycle, or use tools and machines. If you experience infusion-related reactions, nerve damage, or feelings of fatigue, weakness, or dizziness, it's important not to drive, cycle, or operate machinery until these reactions have subsided.
Side Effects of Polivy 140mg Injection
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all medicines cause side effects, not everyone gets them.
Serious:
- Severe allergic reactions (rashes, itching, difficulty in breathing, fever)
Common:
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough (symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection)
- Numbness, tingling, a burning sensation, pain, discomfort, weakness, and difficulty walking (indicative of peripheral neuropathy)
- Fever
- Cough
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Soreness or inflammation of the mouth and gut (mucositis)
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Abdominal (belly) pain
- Fatigue (feeling tired
- Decreased appetite (not feeling hungry)
- Weight loss
- Infusion-related reactions
- Common cold
- Hair loss
- Changes in blood test results
Word of Advice
If you are taking Polivy 140mg injection, it is crucial to regularly monitor your lung and liver functions with your doctor due to potential side effects. Both women and men should use effective contraception during treatment. Women should continue using birth control for at least nine months after the final dose of Polivy 140mg injection, while men should do so for six months after completing treatment to avoid risks to their partners who may become pregnant. It's essential to consult with your doctor about the best contraceptive methods and inform them before you decide to stop using contraception. Additionally, male patients should be aware that Polivy 140mg injection may impact fertility, so it is advisable to avoid fathering a child for six months after treatment and discuss sperm preservation options with your doctor before starting the medication.
FAQs
Q 1. Should I take any premedication before receiving Polivy 140mg injection?
Yes, your doctor may prescribe you an antihistamine and an antipyretic at least 30 minutes before your Polivy 140mg injection infusion to help prevent possible infusion-related reactions.
Q 2. Will Polivy 140mg injection affect my fertility?
Polivy 140mg injection may have an impact on fertility. If you are planning to have children in the future, it's crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They may suggest fertility preservation options and provide guidance tailored to your personal and family plans.
Q 3. Are there any foods to avoid while undergoing treatment with Polivy 140mg injection?
While on Polivy 140mg injection, managing nausea and vomiting is important, and your oncology care team can provide medications to help with these symptoms. Additionally, making changes to your diet can be beneficial. It's advisable to avoid foods that could aggravate these symptoms, such as heavy, greasy, or fatty foods and spicy or acidic items like lemons, tomatoes, and oranges.
Q 4. How does Polivy 140mg injection work?
Polivy 140mg injection works like a smart bomb: the drug has a guided part, the 'monoclonal antibody,' that specifically latches onto the cancer cells. Once attached, it releases a cancer-killing agent called 'MMAE' inside the B cells. This agent then disrupts the cancer cells' ability to divide and grow, leading to death. This targeted approach helps attack the cancer cells without affecting many healthy cells.
Fact Box of Polivy 140mg Injection
Molecule name: Polatuzumab vedotin | Therapeutic class: Chemotherapy Drugs/ Anticancer drugs |
Pharmacological Class: Antibody-drug conjugates | Indications: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma |