Brentuximab Treatment: What is It?

Brentuximab j-code —referred to as J9042 in medical nomenclature—is administered intravenously in 3 week cycles via a 30-minute drip infusion. For those who have untreated peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma, however, the treatment is often combined with chemotherapy.  (4)

The medication is best geared towards those at high risk of cHL or who have experienced a relapse in sALCL. (6)

This rather new and effective drug used to treat lymphatic cancers has changed the entire trajectory and outlook for patient recovery, increasing survival rates and decreasing likelihood of regrowth. 

In addition to the intravenous procedure, a treatment plan with Brentuximab includes regular PET scans (tests that detect metabolic activity) to evaluate the body’s metabolization of the cancer by locating abnormal activity and treating those areas proportionately to the level of severity. 

The PET scans also allow patients to view their treatment progress regularly and understand its efficacy on their affected regions.

Besides the integration of chemotherapy, many patients choose to incorporate bone marrow transplants into their Brentuximab Hodgkin Lymphoma treatment plans.

Brentuximab Vedotin Mechanism of Action

Brentuximab vedotin is an antibody that zeros in on CD30. When it connects with CD30, it’s like a key unlocking the cell. Inside, it releases MMAE, which acts as a roadblock for microtubulin, putting the brakes on cell division and growth.

Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) is designed to tackle HER2. Once inside the cell, it unpacks DM-1, which interferes with microtubule assembly, causing cell death. T-DM1 also has a dual role by blocking HER2 signaling, preventing the shedding of the extracellular HER2 domain, and encouraging antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).

Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) has its sights on CD33. When it enters myeloid blast cells, it releases calicheamicin, a DNA-damaging agent that disrupts the DNA structure with breaks. It’s a precise tool for the job.

Brentuximab Side Effects

It’s crucial that your doctor keeps tabs on your progress with regular check-ups to ensure this medication is doing its job. Sometimes, they might need to run blood and urine tests to make sure there are no unwanted effects. Lastly, be mindful that this medication might affect your blood sugar levels. If you encounter any issues or notice changes in your blood or urine sugar test results, consult your doctor.

Remember not to take any other medications without discussing them with your doctor first, whether they are prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal or vitamin supplements. Your doctor can provide guidance on potential interactions.

Common Side Effects of Brentuximab Vedotin:

Taking a medication can sometimes come with unexpected side effects. While it’s important to keep in mind that not everyone will experience these, if you happen to, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or nurse. Here’s a list of side effects to keep an eye on:

• Back Pain

• Blurred vision

• Body aches or pain

• Bone pain

• Burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations

• Chest tightness

• Chills

• Cough

• Difficult or labored breathing

• Dry mouth

• Ear congestion

• Fever

• Flushed, dry skin

• Fruit-like breath odor

• Headache

• Increased hunger

• Increased thirst

• Increased urination

• Loss of voice

• Lower back or side pain

• Nausea

• Pain

• Painful or difficult urination

• Pale skin

• Pinpoint red spots on the skin

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

• Stomach pain

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Sweating

• Swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin

• Trouble breathing with exertion

• Unexplained weight loss

• Ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth

• Unsteadiness or awkwardness

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Unusual tiredness or weakness

• Vomiting

• Weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

• General feelings of unwell

• Numbness or tingling in the extremities is common but often resolves itself upon completion of Brentuximab treatment. (1) 

• In certain cases, your doctor may prescribe a G-CSF medication to encourage the bone marrow’s production of white blood cells. (2)