Empliciti 300mg Inj, 1 Vial

Manufacturer B-M SQUIBB U.S. (PRIMARY CARE) Active Ingredient Elotuzumab(el oh TOOZ ue mab) Pronunciation el oh TOOZ ue mab
It is used to treat multiple myeloma. This drug is used with a steroid drug (dexamethasone) and either lenalidomide or pomalidomide. Talk with the doctor about the risks and side effects that may happen with those drugs.
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Drug Class
Antineoplastic agent
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Pharmacologic Class
Monoclonal antibody; SLAMF7-directed antibody
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Pregnancy Category
Not assigned, potential for fetal harm
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FDA Approved
Nov 2015
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Empliciti is a medicine used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. It is an antibody that works by helping your body's immune system, specifically natural killer (NK) cells, find and destroy cancer cells. It is given by infusion into a vein, usually along with other cancer medicines.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication is administered as an infusion into a vein over a period of time. Your healthcare team may also give you other medications to help manage any side effects that may occur during the infusion.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the best way to store it.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to find out what to do next. Specifically, if you miss a dose of the steroid medication dexamethasone or if it is discontinued, discuss the situation with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Report any signs of infection (fever, chills, cough, sore throat) immediately.
  • Report any signs of an infusion reaction (chills, fever, rash, difficulty breathing) during or after the infusion.
  • Maintain good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose if you are a woman of childbearing potential.
  • Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: 10 mg/kg IV weekly for the first 2 cycles (28-day cycles), then 10 mg/kg IV every 2 weeks thereafter. Administered in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone, or pomalidomide and dexamethasone.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

multipleMyeloma: 10 mg/kg IV weekly for the first 2 cycles, then 10 mg/kg IV every 2 weeks.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment recommended
Moderate: No dose adjustment recommended
Severe: No dose adjustment recommended
Dialysis: No specific recommendations; unlikely to be removed by dialysis due to large molecular weight.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment recommended
Moderate: No dose adjustment recommended
Severe: No dose adjustment recommended

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Elotuzumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule Family member 7 (SLAMF7), a glycoprotein expressed on multiple myeloma cells and natural killer (NK) cells. It works by directly activating NK cells via SLAMF7 and by mediating antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) against SLAMF7-expressing myeloma cells.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: 100%
Tmax: End of infusion
FoodEffect: Not applicable (IV administration)

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 5-7 L
ProteinBinding: Not highly relevant for monoclonal antibodies; generally low non-specific binding.
CnssPenetration: Limited

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 21-22 days
Clearance: Approximately 0.3-0.4 L/day
ExcretionRoute: Catabolism; not renally or hepatically excreted in an unchanged form.
Unchanged: Not applicable (catabolized)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Not immediate clinical effect; target engagement is rapid.
PeakEffect: Steady-state concentrations reached after approximately 16 weeks (4 cycles) of weekly dosing.
DurationOfAction: Prolonged due to long half-life, supporting bi-weekly dosing after initial phase.

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of infection, including:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Severe sore throat
+ Ear or sinus pain
+ Cough
+ Increased or changed sputum production
+ Pain while urinating
+ Mouth sores
+ Wounds that won't heal
Signs of liver problems, such as:
+ Dark urine
+ Fatigue
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Signs of electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain, cramps, or spasms
+ Weakness
+ Shakiness
+ Balance changes
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Seizures
+ Loss of appetite
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of high or low blood pressure, such as:
+ Severe headache or dizziness
+ Fainting
+ Changes in vision
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion
+ Drowsiness
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Frequent urination
+ Flushing
+ Rapid breathing
+ Fruity-smelling breath
Dizziness or fainting
Abnormal heartbeat (fast or slow)
Changes in mole color or size
Skin lumps or growths
Changes in vision
Chest pain or pressure
Mood changes
Night sweats
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Shortness of breath
Swelling in the arms or legs

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any others that concern you or don't go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:

Feeling tired or weak
Diarrhea or constipation
Abnormal burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Nose or throat irritation
Common cold symptoms
Decreased appetite
Arm or leg pain
Headache
Vomiting
Weight loss
Bone pain
* Muscle spasms

This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Fever or chills (signs of infection or infusion reaction)
  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain, tightness in chest (infusion reaction)
  • Rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat (infusion reaction)
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising (may be related to combination therapy)
  • Severe fatigue or weakness
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you are breastfeeding, as you should not breastfeed while taking this medication.

To ensure safe use, tell your doctor and pharmacist about:

All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with other drugs or health conditions.

Before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one, consult with your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so. This will help prevent potential interactions and ensure the safe use of this medication.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

You may be at risk for severe allergic reactions or adverse effects during or within 24 hours of receiving this drug. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Taking this medication may increase your risk of developing infections, some of which can be severe or life-threatening. To minimize this risk, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoid close contact with individuals who have infections, colds, or the flu.

There is also a potential increased risk of developing certain types of cancer associated with this medication. Discuss this risk with your doctor to understand the benefits and risks.

Regular blood tests will be necessary to monitor your condition while taking this drug. Your doctor will provide guidance on the frequency of these tests. Additionally, inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may affect the results of certain lab tests.

If you have diabetes, it is crucial to closely monitor your blood sugar levels while taking this medication.

If you become pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant while taking this drug, immediately contact your doctor to discuss the potential risks and necessary precautions.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • No specific symptoms of overdose have been reported in clinical trials.

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote for elotuzumab overdose. In case of an overdose, patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of adverse reactions and appropriate symptomatic and supportive treatment should be instituted. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).

Drug Interactions

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential

Rationale: To assess baseline hematologic status and monitor for myelosuppression from combination therapy.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Rationale: To assess baseline hepatic function and monitor for potential hepatotoxicity from combination therapy.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Renal Function Tests (RFTs)

Rationale: To assess baseline renal function.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

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Routine Monitoring

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential

Frequency: Periodically, as clinically indicated and per combination therapy guidelines.

Target: Within normal limits or acceptable for patient's condition.

Action Threshold: Significant cytopenias (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) may require dose modification or delay of combination agents.

Monitoring for Infusion Reactions

Frequency: During and for at least 2 hours after infusion, especially for the first dose.

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Mild reactions may require slowing infusion rate; severe reactions require stopping infusion and supportive care.

Signs and Symptoms of Infection

Frequency: Ongoing throughout treatment.

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Prompt evaluation and treatment of suspected infections.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Infusion reactions (chills, fever, dyspnea, rash, hypotension, chest pain, wheezing, angioedema)
  • Signs of infection (fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, malaise)
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Peripheral neuropathy (often related to combination therapy)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Based on its mechanism of action, Empliciti can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Potential for fetal harm due to immune system effects.
Second Trimester: Potential for fetal harm due to immune system effects.
Third Trimester: Potential for fetal harm due to immune system effects; IgG antibodies are known to cross the placental barrier, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
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Lactation

It is not known whether elotuzumab is excreted in human milk. Human IgG is known to be excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.

Infant Risk: Moderate risk (L3) - Potential for infant exposure and adverse effects on the infant's immune system.
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

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Geriatric Use

No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly patients (â‰Ĩ65 years) and younger patients (<65 years) in clinical trials. No dose adjustment is required based on age.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Premedicate patients with dexamethasone, an H1-blocker (e.g., diphenhydramine), and acetaminophen prior to each Empliciti infusion to reduce the risk of infusion reactions.
  • Infusion reactions are common, especially with the first dose. Monitor patients closely during and for at least 2 hours after the infusion.
  • Empliciti is always administered in combination with other agents for multiple myeloma (e.g., lenalidomide and dexamethasone, or pomalidomide and dexamethasone).
  • Patients may experience an increased risk of infections, particularly upper respiratory tract infections and pneumonia. Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection.
  • Elotuzumab is an IgG kappa monoclonal antibody and may interfere with serological testing (e.g., serum protein electrophoresis, immunofixation) for multiple myeloma, potentially leading to false positive results. This interference should be considered when interpreting patient response assessments.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Proteasome inhibitors (e.g., Bortezomib, Carfilzomib, Ixazomib)
  • Immunomodulatory drugs (e.g., Lenalidomide, Pomalidomide, Thalidomide)
  • Alkylating agents (e.g., Melphalan, Cyclophosphamide)
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone)
  • Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (e.g., Panobinostat)
  • Nuclear export inhibitors (e.g., Selinexor)
  • BCMA-directed therapies (e.g., Belantamab mafodotin, CAR T-cell therapies like Ide-cel, Cilta-cel)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: High (biologic, specialty drug) per vial
Insurance Coverage: Specialty Tier (requires prior authorization, often subject to step therapy)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly; do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Additionally, some medications may come with a separate patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.