Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Daratumumab Injection
• Technical/Medical Term: Injection, daratumumab, 10 mg (C9476)

Summary

Daratumumab injection is a medical procedure where a specific dose of the drug daratumumab is administered intravenously. It is primarily used for treating multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.

Purpose

Daratumumab injection is designed to target and destroy multiple myeloma cells. The goals include reducing the number of cancer cells, slowing disease progression, and improving patient survival and quality of life.

Indications

• Multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer)
• Patients who have relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
• Patients who have tried other treatments without success

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo blood tests to assess their health and organ function.
• It’s important to inform the healthcare provider of all medications being taken as some may need to be adjusted.
• Patients may be advised to stay well-hydrated and follow specific dietary recommendations.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated comfortably, often in a reclining chair.
2. An IV line is inserted, usually into a vein in the arm.
3. Daratumumab is prepared and administered slowly through the IV.
4. The patient is monitored for any adverse reactions during the infusion.

Tools, equipment, or technology used:

• IV line and pump
• Blood pressure cuff and heart rate monitor

Anesthesia or sedation details:

• Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The infusion process typically takes about 7-12 hours for the first dose and 3-4 hours for subsequent doses.

Setting

Daratumumab injection is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or hospital infusion center.

Personnel

• Oncologist or hematologist
• Registered nurse specialized in infusion therapy
• Medical technician (for monitoring vital signs)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infusion reactions (fever, chills, nausea), fatigue, back pain.
• Rare risks: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), low blood cell counts.

Management: Infusion reactions can typically be managed with pre-medications and slowing the infusion rate.

Benefits

• Reduction or elimination of cancer cells
• Slowing the progression of multiple myeloma
• Improved survival rates and quality of life

Patients may start to notice benefits within a few weeks of treatment.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, patients are monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home.
• Follow any specific dietary or activity restrictions as advised by the healthcare team.
• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring response and managing side effects.

Alternatives

• Other chemotherapy drugs
• Stem cell transplant
• Radiation therapy

Pros and cons of alternatives compared to daratumumab: While other treatments may also be effective, daratumumab offers a targeted approach with different side effect profiles and may be beneficial for those who have not responded to other therapies.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort at the IV site and possible side effects like chills or fever. After the procedure, they may feel tired or weak.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• Pre-medications to prevent infusion reactions
• Comfortable seating and a calming environment during the procedure
• Post-infusion care and rest recommendations