Blenrep

What is BLENREP?

(BLENREP) This medication is used to treat a certain type of cancer (multiple myeloma). Belantamab mafodotin belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

How should I use BLENREP?

See also Warning section. Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using belantamab mafodotin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually every 3 weeks. The injection is given by a health care professional, usually over about 30 minutes. Belantamab mafodotin may commonly cause injection reactions. Your doctor may prescribe other medications before each dose to help prevent side effects. Carefully follow your doctor's directions for all your medications. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms during your injection such as nausea, chills, flushing, shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, or fast heartbeat. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the days on the calendar when you need to receive this medication.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take BLENREP?

Before using belantamab mafodotin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current/recent infection, eye problems, kidney problems, liver problems. Belantamab mafodotin can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details. Tell your health care professional that you are using belantamab mafodotin before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose). To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports. This drug may make you dizzy or cause blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using belantamab mafodotin. Belantamab mafodotin may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before you start this medication. Women using this medication should ask about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose. Men using this medication should ask about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. If you or your partner becomes pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug and for at least 3 months after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What may interact with BLENREP?

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

What should I watch for while using BLENREP?

This medication may cause serious eye problems. Changes to the surface of your eye can lead to dry/itchy eyes, ulcer, or vision changes (such as blurred/decreased vision). Your doctor will have you do eye exams before starting this medication and while you are using it. To help prevent dry eyes, use preservative-free lubricant eye drops at least 4 times a day as directed. Avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment with this medication unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Tell your doctor right away if you have any vision changes or eye problems during treatment with this medication. To receive this medication in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the BLENREP REMS Program. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.

What if I miss a dose of BLENREP?

It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.

What side effects may I notice from receiving BLENREP?

See also Warning and How to Use sections. Nausea, blurred vision, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea, back/joint pain, weakness, or tiredness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. People using this medication may have serious side effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: easy bruising/bleeding, signs of lung problems (such as chest pain, shortness of breath, cough). This medication may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills). A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Where should I keep BLENREP?

Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic or hospital and will not be stored at home.