Polatuzumab - Drug Information

Generic Name : Polatuzumab
Pronunciation : POH-lah-TOO-zoo-mab

ICD Code : | Therapeutic Classification : -

Trade Name(s) :

POLIVY
International - POLIVY

Overview of Polatuzumab

Polatuzumab is used for treating a blood cancer named lymphoma, especially in relapsing-remitting disease among adults.

Why is Polatuzumab Prescribed? (Indications)

Polatuzumab is used for treating a blood cancer named lymphoma in combination with other anticancer drugs among adult patients.

When should Polatuzumab not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Known hypersensitivity to Polatuzumab

What is the dosage of Polatuzumab?

Polatuzumab is available as a lyophilized powder for intravenous use

Missed a Dose?

If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible. Modify the schedule of administration to maintain a 21-day interval between two doses.

How should Polatuzumab be taken?

The recommended dose is 1.8 mg/kg as an intravenous infusion over 90 minutes every 21 days for 6 cycles in combination with other anticancer drugs named bendamustine and rituximab.
Further infusions may be given half-an-hour if the previous infusion is tolerated.
Before giving the infusion, the patient should use antihistamine and antipyretic (medicine that reduces fever).

What are the warnings and precautions for Polatuzumab?

What are the side effects of Polatuzumab?

1.Blood: Anemia, low platelet count, low white blood cell count
2.Nervous system: Peripheral neuropathy, dizziness
3.Gastrointestinal system: Diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, liver injury
4.General: Infusion-related pain, rash infections, fever, decreased weight, low potassium, low calcium

What are the other precautions for Polatuzumab?

1.Monitor patients for peripheral neuropathy (tingling of the hands or feet)
2.Premedicate patients with an antihistamine and antipyretic to reduce the chance of infusion-related reactions like rash and fever.
3.Monitor complete blood counts- RBC, WBC, Platelets.
4.Monitor for signs of bacterial or viral infections.
5.Monitor patients for new or worsening neurological, cognitive, or behavioral changes.
6.Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin.
7.Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose of Polatuzumab.
8.Advise patients not to breastfeed while taking Polatuzumab.

What are the Drug Interactions of Polatuzumab?

Polatuzumab will interact with the following drugs: Ketoconazole
Rifampin
Midazolam etc.

What are the storage conditions for Polatuzumab?

Unopened containers: Store in a refrigerator between 2�C to 8�C.
Do not freeze. Do not shake.