This medication is used to treat a certain type of
cancer (uveal melanoma). Tebentafusp belongs to a class of drugs known as
monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer
cells.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using tebentafusp and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein as
directed by your doctor, usually once a week. The injection is given by a
health care professional, usually over 15 to 20 minutes. The dosage is
based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your
risk of side effects, your doctor may prescribe other medications (such as
dexamethasone) before each treatment to help reduce side effects. Also,
your doctor may start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase
your dose.
See also Warning section.
Dry/itchy skin, loss of color in the skin, hair color
changes, swelling ankles/feet/hands, or muscle/joint pain may occur. If any
of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
People using this medication may have serious side
effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side
effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your
risk.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- signs of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't
stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark
urine)
Tebentafusp can commonly cause skin redness, itching,
swelling, or a rash that are usually not serious. However, you may not be
able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe
reaction. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any
rash.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using tebentafusp, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using tebentafusp.
Tebentafusp may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy
test before you start this medication. Ask about reliable forms of birth
control while using this medication and for 1 week after the last dose. If
you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and
benefits of this medication.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not
recommended while using this drug and for at least 1 week after the last
dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count,
liver function) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep
all medical and lab appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic and will not be stored at home.