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Generic Name: Denileukin diftitox
Brand Name(s): ONTAK®
IUPAC: Diphtheria toxin-Interleukin-2 fusion protein
FDA Approval: yes
Manufacturer Link
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Usage: Denileukin diftitox is most commonly used to treat certain types of cutaneous T-cell
lymphoma, that include those that are recurrent or persistent and that express a certain component of the IL-2 receptor (CD25). Denileukin diftitox is administered as an IV infusion.
Mechanism: Denileukin diftitox (ONTAK®) is designed to attack cancer cells expressing high levels of the IL-2 receptor. It is a
cytotoxic protein derived via
recombinant DNA methods. It contains IL-2 protein sequences fused to portions of diphtheria toxin. The IL-2 portion of the protein binds to the IL-2 receptor allowing the diphtheria toxin to enter the cell and induce cell death.
Side Effects: Though there is no FDA-approved patient information for denileukin diftitox at this time some side effects and reactions reported in trials are summarized below:
Hypersensitivity reactions occurred in over half of patients in trials. Symptoms of these reactions include low blood pressure, back pain, rash and chest pain or tightness. Because this drug is administered by a professional these symptoms can be treated if they arise at the time of infusion. Vascular leak syndrome also occurred in less than 1/3 patients in studies. Symptoms of this syndrome include swelling, low blood pressure and decreased albumin (protein in blood) production. These symptoms should be monitored and treated as necessary. Other side effects may include: chills and fever, weakness, infection, pain, headache, nausea and rash.
It is unknown whether this drug is safe for use by pregnant women or if it is secreted in breast milk.
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