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Talimogene Laherparepvec is a drug containing a genetically modified virus that is manufactured to induce an immune response to help destroy cancer cells. Refer to the article below to know the use and how to use the drug Talimogene Laherparepvec properly.
1. What is Talimogene Laherparepvec?
Talimogene Laherparepvec is a genetically modified virus. This is a attenuated version of the Herpes Simplex Type 1 virus that causes cold sores. They replicate in a tumor and produce a protein called GM-CSF that triggers an immune response that helps in the destruction of cancer cells.
2. How to use the drug Talimogen Laherparepvec
Talimogene Laherparepvec is administered to patients by direct injection into a tumor that can be felt by sight or palpation. In addition, drugs can also be introduced into the tumor under ultrasound guidance. The dosage depends on the number of tumors being treated and the size of those tumors.
First, the injected area will be cleaned with an alcohol-soaked cotton pad and left to dry. The injection site can be numbed locally to avoid pain for the patient. The drug is introduced into the tumor by moving the tip of the needle around to inject the full dose into different parts of the tumor. Once the injection is complete, the needle will be withdrawn slowly and the injection site will be held with sterile gauze for at least 30 seconds, then cleaned with alcohol and covered with a sterile bandage.
The injection site should be covered with gauze and a tight bandage to keep out water for at least the first week after each treatment, or longer if the site is oozing or draining. Never touch or scratch the injection site. Hands should be washed with soap and water before and after contact with the injection site or dressing. All dressings and cleaning materials should be placed in a sealed plastic bag and placed in the household trash.
Exposure to talimogene laherparepvec can lead to a risk of herpes infection. Therefore, caregivers should wear gloves when assisting with dressing changes or coming into contact with fluid from the tumor site. In case of accidental contact, wash with soap and water. Sensitive subjects such as immunocompromised people and pregnant women should not come into contact with the drug or any dirty materials. Talimogene Laherparepvec is not recommended for use by patients who are pregnant or who are immunocompromised due to HIV, AIDS, blood or bone marrow cancers, autoimmune diseases, or those on steroid therapy. The effectiveness of talimogene laherparepvec may be affected by antiviral drugs, such as Acyclovir.
Exposure of the fetus to this drug can lead to birth defects. Therefore, the patient should not become pregnant or father a child while taking this medicine. Patients should consult their doctor before breast-feeding while using the drug.
3. Talimogene Laherparepvec side effects
Some common side effects in patients taking the drug include:
Fatigue Fatigue is very common during cancer treatment and is a feeling of fatigue that is significantly reduced despite rest. . Patients should talk to their doctor in advance and plan a time to rest during the day and accumulate energy for more important activities. You can also do some gentle exercise to combat fatigue by going for a simple daily walk with a friend.
Flu-like symptoms Patients may have fever, chills, aches and pains, and symptoms usually occur during the first 3 months of treatment. Your doctor may prescribe certain medications and other complementary methods to relieve these symptoms.
Complications at the injection site The injection site should be kept clean and covered with a watertight bandage for at least 1 week after the injection. If the dressing is soaked, the skin should be cleaned and the dressing changed. The injection site should be closely monitored for changes in color, moisture, tenderness, and oozing or excess pus. Any of these symptoms should be immediately reported to your doctor as they could be signs of an infection.
Herpes infection Caused by this medicine contains the herpes virus, it causes herpes infection. Symptoms of a herpes infection include:
Pain, burning or tingling in blisters around the mouth, genitals, fingers or ears. Eye pain, sensitivity, discharge from the eye and blurred vision. Extremely tired and sleepy. Psychosis. Nausea and vomiting When this happens, your doctor may prescribe medication to help you control nausea and vomiting. In addition, dietary changes can also be somewhat limited by avoiding foods that are difficult to digest or contain a lot of fat, fat, spices or acids (lemon, tomatoes, oranges). Some less common side effects include: Plasmacytoma: In clinical trials, the growth of plasmacytoma in patients with concomitant multiple myeloma has occurred. Obstructive airway disorders: The drug can cause breathing and airway problems if injected near the main airway. Above are the uses and doses of Talimogene Laherparepvec. Patients should carefully read the instructions for use, consult a doctor / pharmacist before use to ensure safety and maximize the effectiveness of treatment.
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Reference source: oncolink.com
