Often used for:
Treatment of cytokine release syndrome during CAR T-cell therapy
About siltuximab
Siltuximab blocks interleukin-6 (IL-6) to manage severe cytokine release syndrome. Patients receive regular lab monitoring and vital sign checks during infusions.
Possible side effects
- Swelling or edema
- Weight gain
- Cold-like symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, throat irritation)
- Rash or itching
- Increased infection risk
- Headache
- Constipation
- Joint, mouth, or throat pain
- Dry skin
- Low blood counts
- Liver problems
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Tears in the stomach or intestines
- Infusion reactions (chills, shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, low blood pressure, facial swelling)
- Not all patients experience these effects. Report all symptoms.
Tips for families
- Discuss all recommendations with the care team.
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date before treatment and avoid live vaccines for 3 months after therapy.
- Use additional birth control as hormone-based methods may be less effective.
- Inform the care team if sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
