Name of the Procedure:

Injection, durvalumab, 10 mg (C9492)

• Common Name(s): Durvalumab injection
• Technical/Medical Term: Durvalumab intravenous infusion

Summary

Durvalumab injection is a medical procedure where a medication known as durvalumab is administered into the bloodstream through an intravenous infusion. This medication is designed to help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells more effectively.

Purpose

Durvalumab injection is used to treat certain types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and bladder cancer (urothelial carcinoma). The goal of the procedure is to enhance the body’s immune response against cancer cells, slowing their growth and spread.

Indications

Durvalumab injection is indicated for patients with specific types of advanced or metastatic cancers:

• Non-small cell lung cancer after chemotherapy.
• Locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma that has progressed during or after platinum-containing chemotherapy.

Preparation

• No special fasting or diet preparation is generally required.
• Discuss any current medications with your healthcare provider, as some may need to be adjusted.
• Blood tests and imaging tests might be performed to assess your condition before starting the treatment.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider preps the intravenous line.
2. Administration: Durvalumab is administered through an IV line into the patient’s arm.
3. Monitoring: Vital signs are monitored during and after the infusion to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
   • Tools/Equipment: IV line, infusion pump, and the durvalumab medication.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

The infusion usually takes about 60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital's infusion center.

Personnel

• Oncologist
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Medical Assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common: Fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, and infusion-related reactions like fever or chills.
• Rare: Severe immune-mediated side effects affecting organs such as the lungs, liver, and intestines.
• Management: Immediate medical attention, medications to counteract side effects, or discontinuation of therapy in severe cases.

Benefits

• Durvalumab can potentially slow the progression of cancer, shrink tumors, and extend survival.
• Some patients experience improved quality of life and symptom relief.
• Benefits can be observed within a few weeks to a few months of starting treatment.

Recovery

• Post-infusion: Patients can generally go home shortly after the infusion unless there are complications.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can resume normal activities the same day.
• Follow-ups: Regular appointments for monitoring and additional infusions as part of the treatment plan.

Alternatives

• Chemotherapy: Traditional systemic treatment can also target cancer cells but has different side effects.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
• Surgery: Applicable if the cancer is localized and operable.
• Pros and Cons: Each alternative varies in terms of effectiveness, side effects, and appropriateness based on the cancer type and stage.

Patient Experience

• During the infusion: Some patients might feel tired or experience mild discomfort at the IV site.
• After the infusion: Patients may feel fatigued, but most can return to their daily routines shortly after. Pain management and support measures are available to ensure comfort during and after the procedure.