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Gemtuzumab

Immunotherapy Monoclonal Antibody

Brand names:

Mylotarg®

Often used for:

Acute myeloid leukemia

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About gemtuzumab

Gemtuzumab is a type of medicine called a monoclonal antibody. This medicine works by attaching to a protein called CD33 found on some types of leukemia cells. When gemtuzumab attaches to cells with CD33, it delivers a chemotherapy medicine called calicheamicin into the cell. Gemtuzumab is considered a targeted therapy because the medicine is specific to certain cell features and “targets” those cells.

Blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and temperature will be checked regularly during and after the infusion to watch for infusion-related side effects. Gemtuzumab will be protected from light during the infusion.

Gemtuzumab may be used alone or in combination with other medicines. Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver function.

Brain

Given as a liquid into a vein by IV

 
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Possible side effects

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Mouth sores
  • Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills)
  • Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia and/or fatigue)
  • Headache
  • Low blood pressure
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Rash
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems
  • Low potassium levels in the blood
  • Infusion-related reactions: Symptoms may include chills, shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, low blood pressure, pain in the chest, swelling of the face or neck

Not all patients who take gemtuzumab will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Possible late effects

Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects due to gemtuzumab include:

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Tips for families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Some patients may have a reaction to this medicine. Let a nurse know how you are feeling during the infusion.
  • Your care team may recommend diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) and acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and other medicines to help prevent flu-like symptoms.
  • Anti-nausea medicines may also be prescribed.
  • Sexually active patients should take steps to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after completion of therapy.
  • Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Gemtuzumab resources

Learn More About Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.