Isatuximab is a type of medicine that doctors use to treat a specific type of cancer called multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow. These plasma cells grow out of control and crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to problems like anemia (low red blood cells), infections, and bone pain.
Now, Isatuximab works by targeting a protein called CD38 that's found on the surface of multiple myeloma cells. It's like a special key that locks onto the CD38 protein and helps the body's immune system recognize and attack the cancer cells.
Doctors give Isatuximab as an infusion, which means it's injected into a vein over a period of time. It's usually given along with other medicines used to treat multiple myeloma, like chemotherapy drugs or steroids.
Isatuximab can help slow down the growth of multiple myeloma cells and reduce symptoms like bone pain and fatigue. It can also help improve blood counts and reduce the risk of infections.
But like all medicines, Isatuximab can have side effects. Some common side effects include:
1. **Infusion reactions**: This can happen during or shortly after the infusion and may include symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, and shortness of breath. But doctors can often manage these reactions with medicines given before the infusion.
2. **Low blood cell counts**: Isatuximab can sometimes lower the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the body. This can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. Doctors will monitor blood counts regularly and may adjust the dosage or give supportive treatments if needed.
3. **Infections**: Because Isatuximab can affect the immune system, there's a risk of getting infections more easily. It's important to watch out for signs of infection, like fever or cough, and to let our doctor know if you notice anything unusual.
4. **Fatigue**: Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Isatuximab. It's important to rest when needed and to talk to our doctor if the fatigue becomes severe.
Overall, Isatuximab is an important treatment option for people with multiple myeloma. It can help slow down the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. But it's essential to talk to our doctor about the potential benefits and risks of Isatuximab, and to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Isatuximab
Isatuximab is like a superhero medicine that fights a specific type of cancer called multiple myeloma. Imagine your body as a city, and cancer cells are like troublemakers causing chaos. Isatuximab works by targeting these troublemaking cells in a clever way.
Here's how it works:
1. **Identifying the Target**: Isatuximab has a special ability to recognize and latch onto a protein called CD38. This protein is found on the surface of multiple myeloma cells, which are the bad guys causing the trouble.
2. **Flagging the Enemy**: Once Isatuximab grabs onto the CD38 protein, it's like putting a flag on the cancer cells, marking them as targets for the body's immune system.
3. **Calling for Backup**: With the cancer cells flagged, the body's immune system can now recognize them as invaders and attack them. It's like calling in reinforcements to deal with the troublemakers.
4. **Stopping the Spread**: By targeting the cancer cells, Isatuximab helps slow down their growth and stops them from spreading further. It's like putting a lid on a pot to keep the trouble from boiling over.
Overall, Isatuximab is a powerful weapon in the fight against multiple myeloma. It helps the body's immune system identify and destroy the cancer cells, giving hope to people battling this disease.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist