Carfilzomib, Kyprolis
Description: Antineoplastic Agent, Proteasome Inhibitor
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Carfilzomib, Kyprolis selectively and irreversibly inhibits proteasomes and reduces the growth of proteasome activity in tissues, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in tumors found in multiple myeloma.
Indications For Use
Multiple myeloma
Precautions
Before starting Carfilzomib, Kyprolis make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Carfilzomib, Kyprolis can cause bone marrow suppression (i.e. thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia), worsening of cardiovascular function (i.e. heart failure, pulmonary edema, cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction), hemorrhage, hepatic failure, hepatitis B reactivation, hypertension, infusion-related reactions, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, pulmonary toxicities, renal toxicity, thromboembolic events and tumor lysis syndrome.
Usual Dosing
Intravenous: Administer over 10 minutes to 30 minutes depending on dosage regimen.
Pre-administration: dexamethasone is used to provide thromboprophylaxis. Antiviral prophylaxis to decrease risk of herpes zoster reactivation. Adequate hydration particularly in patients at risk for tumor lysis syndrome or renal toxicity.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take: Do not administer as an IV push or bolus. Hydrate with oral fluids (30 mL/kg) at least 48 hours prior to initiating cycle 1, as well as with 250 to 500 mL NS (or other appropriate IV fluid) prior to (recommended) and after (if needed) each dose in cycle 1; continue oral and/or IV hydration in subsequent cycles (if necessary). Flush line immediately before and after Carfilzomib, Kyprolis with NS or D5W. Do not administer with other medications.
Side Effects
Hypertension, peripheral edema, chest pain, fatigue, chills, headache, insomnia, dizziness, hypoesthesia, peripheral neuropathy, gastrointestinal toxicity (i.e. anorexia, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting), hematologic disturbances, muscle spasm, pain, dyspnea, cough, pneumonia and fever.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Carfilzomib, Kyprolis only common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would my physician prescribe a medication with such serious side effects?
Your physician takes the most recent clinical guidelines to make evidence-based decisions on what medication is appropriate in which situations. Your current medications, your allergies, age, cost of medication, comorbid conditions and many other factors will further complicate or limit which medications are appropriate. This medication is used for certain forms of cancer and your physician has determined the benefits outweigh the risks. Furthermore, they will be monitoring your bloodwork and symptoms closely to avoid many of the serious side effects and will keep you on the lowest effective dosage for the shortest amount of time possible.