Injection, Atezolizumab, 10 mg (C9483)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Atezolizumab Injection
• Technical/Medical Term: Injection, Atezolizumab, 10 mg

Summary

Atezolizumab injection is a treatment involving the infusion of atezolizumab, a medication that aims to help the immune system combat certain types of cancer. The drug is administered intravenously, typically in a clinical setting.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: This injection is primarily used to treat different types of cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and urothelial carcinoma.
• Goals/Outcomes: The main objective is to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, thereby extending patient survival and improving quality of life.

Indications

• Specific Symptoms or Conditions: Atezolizumab is indicated for patients with advanced or metastatic cancers such as NSCLC and urothelial carcinoma.
• Patient Criteria: Suitable for patients diagnosed with cancers that have shown to respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients often need to undergo blood tests and imaging studies to assess their baseline health status. They might be advised to hydrate well before the injection but no fasting is generally required.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Prior to the injection, physicians might perform tests like complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests (LFTs), and imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The healthcare provider will review the patient’s medical records and recent tests.
2. IV Line Placement: An intravenous (IV) line will be placed, usually in the arm.
3. Administering Atezolizumab: The atezolizumab infusion will be prepared and administered via the IV line over a period of time.
4. Monitoring: The patient will be monitored for any immediate adverse reactions during and after the infusion.

• Tools/Equipment: IV infusion set, atezolizumab medication, monitoring equipment for vital signs.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

The infusion usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital outpatient department or a specialized cancer treatment center.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Usually involves an oncologist, registered nurses, and potentially a pharmacist.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infusion reactions, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite.
• Rare Risks: Severe immune-related adverse events affecting organs like the liver, lungs, and intestines. Management involves prompt medical attention and possibly discontinuing therapy.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduced tumor size, slowed cancer progression, and extended survival.
• Timeline: Benefits may be realized within weeks to months of consistent treatment.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients are monitored briefly post-infusion for any adverse reactions. They can typically go home the same day.
• Recovery Time: Varies; minimal immediate downtime but follow-up should occur regularly.
• Restrictions/Follow-Up: Patients may have activity restrictions if severe side effects occur and will need regular follow-up appointments for ongoing assessment.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Surgery, radiation therapy, other chemotherapy or immunotherapy drugs.
• Pros and Cons: Compared to conventional chemotherapy, atezolizumab has different side effects and doesn't cause typical chemotherapy-associated hair loss or severe nausea but can have immune-related side effects.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients might feel a slight prick when the IV line is placed. Some may experience mild discomfort from the infusion itself.
• After the Procedure: Possible side effects like fatigue and nausea. Pain management involves appropriate medications as prescribed.
• Comfort Measures: Ensuring a comfortable environment during the infusion, providing anti-nausea medications if needed, and regular check-ins with healthcare staff.