Yescarta suspension for infusion (axicabtagene ciloleucel) — Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Safety

Drug class: Antineoplastic; CAR T-cell therapy (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell immunotherapy)

Overview

Yescarta suspension for infusion is a type of immunotherapy used to treat certain types of blood cancers, specifically large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma, in adults who have not responded to or have relapsed after at least two other kinds of treatment. Yescarta is a CAR T-cell therapy, which means it uses your own immune cells (T-cells) that have been genetically modified to recognize and attack cancer cells. The treatment involves collecting your T-cells, modifying them in a laboratory to target a protein (CD19) found on cancer cells, and then infusing them back into your body. This helps your immune system find and destroy lymphoma cells. Patients should know that Yescarta is given only in specialized hospitals and requires close monitoring for side effects, especially in the first few weeks after infusion.

Therapeutic uses

  • Relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy
  • Relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy
  • Relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy

Common side effects

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)
  • Neurologic toxicities (ICANS)
  • Serious infections
  • Hypogammaglobulinemia
  • Prolonged cytopenias
  • Fever
  • Hypotension
  • Encephalopathy

Frequently Asked Questions about Yescarta suspension for infusion

What is Yescarta used for?

Yescarta is used to treat adults with certain types of large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma who have not responded to or have relapsed after at least two previous treatments.

How does Yescarta work?

Yescarta is a CAR T-cell therapy that uses your own T-cells, which are modified to recognize and attack cancer cells that express the CD19 protein.

What are the most serious side effects of Yescarta?

The most serious side effects include cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurologic toxicities (such as confusion or seizures), severe infections, and allergic reactions.

How is Yescarta administered?

Yescarta is given as a single intravenous infusion in a hospital or certified treatment center, following a short course of chemotherapy.

Can children receive Yescarta?

Yescarta is not recommended for use in children under 18 years old, as safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.

Do I need to stay in the hospital after receiving Yescarta?

Yes, you will be monitored in the hospital for at least 7 days after the infusion to watch for side effects and complications.

Can I get vaccines after Yescarta treatment?

You should avoid live vaccines for at least 6 weeks before and after Yescarta treatment. Discuss all vaccines with your healthcare provider.

Educational information only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.