Often used for:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
What is blinatumomab?
Blinatumomab is a bispecific T-cell engager (BITE) monoclonal antibody that helps T cells target the CD19 protein on certain leukemia cells. It is considered targeted therapy because it focuses on specific cell features. Patients are monitored closely for cytokine release syndrome (CRS), especially in the first few days of treatment. Regular blood tests check blood counts and liver function.
Possible side effects
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills)
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Swelling of arms or legs
- Joint or muscle pain
- Back or abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Rash
- Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia, and/or fatigue)
- Liver problems
- Pancreas problems
- Central nervous system reaction: Symptoms may include headache, confusion, seizures, slurred speech or trouble speaking, loss of balance, and fainting
- Cytokine release syndrome: Symptoms may include fever, chills, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, confusion, feeling very weak or tired, muscle or joint pain, swelling of the face, rash, seizures, diarrhea, or vomiting
- Not all patients who take blinatumomab will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Blinatumomab is given as a continuous infusion by CADD pump over 24–48 hours for a total of 28 days per cycle. Caregivers are taught how to manage the pump at home.
- Do not flush the line where blinatumomab is infusing, especially when changing infusion bags or at the completion of the infusion.
- Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone may be used to help prevent cytokine release syndrome and manage central nervous system effects.
- Blinatumomab may cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and seizures. Avoid driving or other dangerous activities while receiving the infusion.
- Medicines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) may be given to prevent flu-like symptoms.
- Sexually active patients should prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 48 hours after the last dose.
- Tell the care team if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.
