Chemo Drugs

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Mylotarg (Gemtuzumab)

What Does It Look Like?

Clear liquid

How Is It Given?

Intravenously (IV). This drug is highly light sensitive and must be protected from light during storage and administration and will be covered.

Why Am I Taking It?

Mylotarg is an anti-cancer drug that stops cells from dividing. This drug is used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

What Side Effects May Occur?

You may experience some, all, or none of those listed. Most side effects do not last long. Tell the doctor or nurse about any that you notice. The information here does not include all possible side effects; others may occur. Please report any problems to your doctor.

Low Blood Counts

• A severe and rapid drop in blood counts occurs with this medication.
• The white blood cells may take a month to recover to minimal levels. It is very important to protect yourself from infections during treatment with Mylotarg.
• Wash your hands often.
• Avoid anyone with a cold or flu symptoms.
• Avoid going out into crowds while undergoing treatment with Mylotarg.
• Call your doctor if you have a fever or chills immediately
• Anemia will occur due to a drop in the red blood cells. Blood transfusions are commonly needed.
• Your platelets will also drop to very low level most likely requiring platelet transfusions for several weeks. It is very important to protect yourself from bleeding. Some frequent problems include nosebleeds and bleeding gums. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any bleeding that won't stop, blood in your urine, vomiting blood or if you become confused or have a severe headache.

Allergic Reaction

• Fever and chills may happen after the drug infusion, especially after the first one. You will be given the medications of Benadryl and Tylenol before treatment and Tylenol after treatment to lessen these symptoms. It is very important to take these medicines as ordered.
• Some other allergic reactions may include a drop in blood pressure and shortness of breath. You will be monitored very closely while you are receiving this medication and for a few hours afterwards.

Oral

• You may have irritation or infection to the lining of your mouth and esophagus. Keeping your mouth and teeth clean is very important. Use a soft toothbrush and rinse your mouth with salt water or baking soda and water. If sores develop, you will be given medication to help with the discomfort and to help protect you against infection in your mouth.
• Look inside your mouth daily. Let your doctor or nurse know if there are any open, red, white or other unusual areas.

Skin

• Loss of hair is not common.
• You may develop a body rash.

Other Side Effects

• Headache
• High or low blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• Nausea or vomiting (rare)
• Fever and chills

Special Notes

• You will have very frequent lab tests done to monitor your progress and side effects from treatment with mylotarg.
• Changes in your menstrual cycle or sperm count may occur. Discuss birth control measures with your doctor as it is not advisable to conceive or to father children while taking this drug.