Name of the Procedure:

Injection, belantamab mafodotin-blmf, 0.5 mg
Common names: Belantamab, Blenrep
Technical/medical term: Belantamab mafodotin-blmf

Summary

Belantamab mafodotin-blmf is a type of targeted cancer treatment designed to treat multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. The medication is administered via injection.

Purpose

This injection is used to treat patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least two prior therapies, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. The goal of the procedure is to reduce the number of cancerous plasma cells and slow the progression of the disease.

Indications

• Multiple myeloma that has relapsed or is refractory after standard treatments.
• Patients who have received at least two prior different therapies for multiple myeloma.

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo blood tests and assessments to ensure they are suitable candidates for the injection.
• No fasting is typically required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

Procedure Description

1. Step 1: The healthcare provider will prepare the belantamab mafodotin-blmf injection.
2. Step 2: The injection is administered intravenously (into a vein), usually over the course of 30 minutes.
3. Equipment: Often, standard IV equipment is used.
4. Anesthesia: No anesthesia is required, although the patient may receive pre-medication to prevent side effects.

Duration

The injection process typically takes around 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Oncologist or hematologist
• Specialized chemotherapy or infusion nurse

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Fatigue, nausea, eye problems (such as blurred vision), low blood cell counts.
• Rare risks: Severe allergic reactions, infections due to low white blood cells, severe eye toxicity which may require cessation of therapy.

Benefits

• Reduction in tumor burden and potential delay in disease progression.
• Symptom management and improved quality of life.
• Benefits may be observed a few weeks after starting treatment.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, patients can typically resume normal activities shortly after the infusion.
• Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor blood counts and overall health.
• Patients should follow their healthcare provider's advice about managing side effects, such as using lubricating eye drops if experiencing eye-related issues.

Alternatives

• Other chemotherapeutic agents.
• Stem cell transplant.
• Clinical trials of new therapies.
• Pros: Alternative treatments may have different side effect profiles or efficacy rates.
• Cons: Some alternatives may not be as effective in heavily pre-treated patients.

Patient Experience

• During the injection: Patients typically remain seated and may feel a slight prick when the IV is inserted.
• After the injection: Most patients will not feel pain from the medication itself but should monitor for side effects like fatigue or vision changes.
• Pain management: Healthcare providers will offer strategies to manage any discomfort or side effects, including medication and lifestyle adjustments.