1. Hematology/Oncology
  2. Learn Immuno-Oncology
  3. Adverse Events
Adverse Events
Adverse Events
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Brentuximab vedotin

Brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris, Seattle Genetics) is an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody-drug immunoconjugate indicated for the treatment of classical Hodgkin Lymphoma and anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. The drug is administered via IV infusion. This section describes the common adverse reactions, warnings and precautions, drug interactions and other contraindications associated with brentuximab vedotin therapy.

Topics Covered:
Common adverse reactions
Warnings and precautions
Drug interactions and other contraindications

Brentuximab common adverse reactions


Adverse reactions reported by at least 20% of patients in clinical trials included neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, anemia, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, fever, rash, thrombocytopenia, cough and vomiting.

Brentuximab warnings and precautions


In clinical trials, slightly more than 50% of patients reported some degree of peripheral neuropathy, and about half of these patients had complete symptom resolution. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include hyperesthesia (increased sensitivity), hypoesthesia (numbness), paresthesia (burning or tingling sensation), neuropathic pain and weakness. Patients experiencing peripheral neuropathy may require a dose adjustment or discontinuation of brentuximab vedotin.

Additional potentially serious adverse events have been reported, including:

  • infusion reactions;
  • cytopenias;
  • serious or opportunistic infections;
  • tumor lysis syndrome;
  • impaired renal function;
  • impaired liver function;
  • PML;
  • impaired lung function;
  • mucocutaneous reactions (SJS, TEN); and
  • intestinal perforation.

Brentuximab drug interactions and other contraindications


Brentuximab vedotin should not be administered with any systemic chemotherapy regimen containing bleomycin because of the risk for pulmonary toxicity. Use of CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers or P-gp inhibitors may affect the chemotherapeutic component of brentuximab vedotin.

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