Padcev 20 mg Injection

Product Details

Padcev 20 mg Injection contains enfortumab vedotin, an antibody-drug conjugate used in the treatment of certain advanced cancers, specifically urothelial carcinoma (a type of bladder cancer). It targets Nectin-4, a protein highly expressed on urothelial cancer cells, delivering a cytotoxic agent directly to the cancer, reducing tumor growth.

Uses:

1. Treatment of Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma: Typically prescribed for patients who have previously received immunotherapy and platinum-containing chemotherapy.
2. Indicated for Certain Bladder Cancers: Used when disease has progressed or if other therapies have failed.

How Padcev Works: Enfortumab vedotin binds to Nectin-4 on cancer cells, delivering a potent chemotherapy agent that induces cell death. By targeting cancer cells directly, it minimizes exposure to normal tissues, enhancing effectiveness.

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Skin rash or itching
• Nausea and decreased appetite
• Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in extremities)
• Elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention):

• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)
• High blood sugar (diabetic ketoacidosis)
• Infusion site reactions
• Respiratory complications

Key Features:

• Contains enfortumab vedotin, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting Nectin-4.
• Indicated for advanced urothelial carcinoma where prior therapies have not worked.
• Administered as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.
• Combines targeted therapy with a potent cytotoxic agent for enhanced treatment specificity.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy Safety: Not recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception is advised for both men and women during and after treatment.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and skin conditions is essential during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. What is Padcev 20 mg Injection used for?
   Padcev is used to treat advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (bladder cancer), particularly in patients who have not responded to other therapies.
2. How is Padcev administered?
   It is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare provider, typically on a scheduled basis.
3. What precautions should be taken during Padcev treatment?
   Close monitoring of skin reactions, blood sugar, and infusion reactions is necessary. Patients with a history of diabetes should manage blood sugar levels closely.

References:

1. FDA Padcev Information
   Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2020/enfortumab-vedotin-bladder-cancer-fda-approval
   Accessed on: November 11, 2024.
2. Astellas Pharma and Seagen Inc. – Padcev Prescribing Information
   Available from: https://www.padcev.com
   Accessed on: November 11, 2024.