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Trade name

Darzalex^®

What Daratumumab is and what it is used for?

• Darzalex^® is a monoclonal antibody that targets to the protein called CD38, which is highly expressed on multiple myeloma cells. Once Darzalex^® attaches to CD38, it induces rapid cell death and activates the immune system to destroy the myeloma cells.
• Darzalex^® can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat multiple myeloma.

How Daratumumab is given?

• It is given as a slow infusion into the vein. It may take up to 4 to 6 hours or more.

What should I know while receiving Daratumumab?

• An infusion reaction may happen during or shortly after the infusion, causing fever and chills, breathing difficulties, swelling of throat or face, or hives. Tell your nurse right away if you feel unwell during an infusion.
• Do not receive this drug when you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Men and women should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after the treatment ends.
• You will have regular blood tests during treatment. Blood tests help your doctor understand how well Darzalex^® is working and monitor any side effect you might get.
• Darzalex^® can alter the results of blood type test. Errors can last up to 6 months after your last dose. To avoid blood typing errors, your doctor will test your blood type before your first dose of Darzalex^®.
• Do not receive any kind of vaccination without doctor's approval.
• Some of drugs may affect how Darzalex^® works. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• The existing health problems may affect the use of Darzalex^®. Let your doctor know if you have any types of infections or if you have other medical problems, especially liver, kidney, lung or breathing problems.

Common side effects

• Low white blood cell count

You may have a higher risk of getting infections. Try to stay away from crowds and wash hands often. Tell your doctor right away if you have repeated fevers, coughing, stuffy nose, a painful urination or wound that becomes red and swollen.

• Low red blood cell count

You may look pale and get tired more easily. Let your doctor know if you experience any difficulty breathing or dizziness when changing positions.

• Low platelet count

You may have a higher risk of bleeding. Let your doctor know if you find red or purple dots on the skin, bleeding from the nose or gums, or any bruising or bleeding that you cannot explain.

• Fatigue

Try to pace yourself and rest as much as possible. Seek medical advice if fatigue does not go away when you rest and sleep.

• Nausea

Try to pace yourself and rest as much as possible. Seek medical advice if fatigue does not go away when you rest and sleep.

• Generalized pain

Talk to the doctor if the pain is bothering you, they can give you medicine to relieve pain.

• Swelling of lower legs or hands

Tell your doctor if your hands, arms, legs, or feet feel puffy or tender. The doctor may give medicines to reduce your symptoms and suggest ways to prevent fluid buildup.

• Cough or trouble breathing

You may have sore throat or stuffy nose without any signs of infection. Talk to your doctor if this side effect bothers you.

Less common side effects

• Diarrhea or constipation

Talk to your doctor and ask for advice. Drinking plenty of water and dietary changes can improve diarrhea.

• Loss of appetite

Try to eat in small quantities and have frequent meals. If your appetite does not get any better after a few days, tell your doctor.

• Headache

Tell your doctor if this happens. Be sure to ask your doctor before taking any pain relievers.

• High blood pressure

Tell your doctor if you have problems with blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and may prescribe medications if necessary. Seek medical help at once if you suddenly hit with a severe headache or have blurred vision.

More Information

• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day can help make your recovery a smoother process.
• Alcohol and cigarettes may interfere with certain medicines or worsen side effects from chemotherapy treatment. It is wise to avoid alcohol and cigarette smoking during cancer treatment. If you have any problem about drinking alcohol and smoking, you should check with your doctor.