What is Ublituximab-xiiy: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Ublituximab-xiiy is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, specifically chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). This medication works by targeting specific proteins on cancer cells to help your immune system fight the disease more effectively.

You receive this treatment through an intravenous (IV) line directly into your bloodstream, typically in a healthcare facility where medical professionals can monitor you closely. The medication belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies, which are designed to seek out and attach to specific targets on cancer cells.

What is Ublituximab-xiiy?

Ublituximab-xiiy is a monoclonal antibody medication that helps treat blood cancers by working with your immune system. Think of it as a guided missile that specifically targets cancer cells while leaving most of your healthy cells alone.

This medication is what doctors call a "targeted therapy" because it focuses on specific proteins found on the surface of certain cancer cells. The drug attaches to these proteins and signals your immune system to destroy the cancer cells, while also directly causing some cancer cells to die.

The "-xiiy" part of the name indicates this is a biosimilar version of the original medication. Biosimilars are highly similar to existing approved medications and work just as effectively, but they may be produced by different manufacturers.

What is Ublituximab-xiiy Used For?

Ublituximab-xiiy treats chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), two closely related blood cancers. These conditions occur when certain white blood cells called lymphocytes grow out of control and crowd out healthy cells.

Your doctor might prescribe this medication when you're first diagnosed with CLL or SLL, or if your cancer has returned after previous treatments. It's often used alongside other cancer medications to create a more comprehensive treatment approach.

The medication is particularly helpful for people whose cancer cells have specific characteristics that make them good targets for this type of treatment. Your healthcare team will run tests to determine if your cancer is likely to respond well to ublituximab-xiiy.

How Does Ublituximab-xiiy Work?

Ublituximab-xiiy works by targeting a protein called CD20 that sits on the surface of certain cancer cells. This protein acts like a name tag that helps the medication identify which cells to attack.

Once the medication attaches to the CD20 protein, it triggers several processes that lead to cancer cell death. Your immune system recognizes the attached medication as a signal to destroy those cells, while the medication itself can also cause cancer cells to self-destruct.

This is considered a moderately strong cancer treatment that can be quite effective when used properly. However, because it targets your immune system, you'll need careful monitoring throughout your treatment to watch for any complications.

How Should I Take Ublituximab-xiiy?

You'll receive ublituximab-xiiy through an IV infusion in a healthcare facility, not as a pill you take at home. The medication is given slowly over several hours, and healthcare professionals will monitor you closely during each treatment session.

Before each infusion, you'll likely receive pre-medications to help prevent allergic reactions and reduce side effects. These might include antihistamines, acetaminophen, or steroids given about 30 minutes before your ublituximab-xiiy treatment begins.

You don't need to avoid food before treatment, but it's wise to eat a light meal beforehand since the infusion process can take several hours. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to treatment can also help your body handle the medication better.

Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions about any medications you should avoid before treatment and what to bring to make your infusion session more comfortable.

How Long Should I Take Ublituximab-xiiy For?

The duration of ublituximab-xiiy treatment varies based on your specific condition and how well you respond to the medication. Most people receive treatment for several months, with infusions typically given once every few weeks.

Your doctor will create a treatment schedule tailored to your needs, which might involve an initial intensive phase followed by maintenance treatments. Some people may receive the medication for six months, while others might need it for a year or longer.

Throughout your treatment, your healthcare team will regularly monitor your progress through blood tests, scans, and physical examinations. Based on these results, they may adjust your treatment schedule or decide when it's appropriate to stop the medication.

Never stop taking ublituximab-xiiy on your own, even if you're feeling better. Your cancer might not be completely gone, and stopping treatment early could allow it to return or worsen.

What Are the Side Effects of Ublituximab-xiiy?

Like all cancer treatments, ublituximab-xiiy can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are manageable, and your healthcare team has experience helping patients through any challenges that arise.

Here are some common side effects you might experience during treatment:

• Fatigue and feeling more tired than usual
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headaches
• Muscle or joint aches
• Fever or chills
• Skin rash or itching
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite

These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to the treatment, and your healthcare team can provide medications or strategies to help manage them effectively.

Some people may experience more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. While these are less common, it's important to be aware of warning signs that shouldn't be ignored:

• Signs of serious infection like persistent fever, chills, or unusual weakness
• Severe allergic reactions during or after infusion
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Significant changes in urination

Your medical team will monitor you closely for these more serious reactions and provide immediate care if needed. Most people tolerate ublituximab-xiiy well, especially with proper medical supervision.

Who Should Not Take Ublituximab-xiiy?

Ublituximab-xiiy isn't suitable for everyone, and your doctor will carefully evaluate whether it's the right treatment for you. People with certain medical conditions or circumstances may need alternative treatments.

Your doctor will likely recommend against this medication if you have active, serious infections that your body is struggling to fight. Since ublituximab-xiiy affects your immune system, it could make existing infections worse or harder to treat.

People with certain heart conditions may need special precautions or alternative treatments, as the medication can sometimes affect heart function. Your doctor will review your heart health before starting treatment.

If you're pregnant or trying to become pregnant, this medication isn't recommended as it could harm a developing baby. Women who could become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for several months afterward.

People with severe liver disease or certain autoimmune conditions may also need different treatment approaches, as ublituximab-xiiy could complicate these conditions.

Ublituximab-xiiy Brand Names

Ublituximab-xiiy is available under the brand name Briumvi. This is the commercial name you'll see on medication labels and in pharmacy systems.

Since this is a biosimilar medication, you might also encounter references to the original medication it's based on. Your healthcare team will ensure you receive the correct formulation regardless of which specific brand name is used.

Always verify with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions about the specific brand or formulation you're receiving, as this helps ensure you get the right medication.

Ublituximab-xiiy Alternatives

Several other medications can treat CLL and SLL, though the best choice depends on your specific situation and medical history. Your oncologist will consider factors like your age, overall health, and cancer characteristics when selecting treatment.

Other monoclonal antibodies like rituximab work similarly to ublituximab-xiiy and might be options in certain situations. Some people might receive combination treatments that include chemotherapy drugs alongside targeted therapies.

Newer oral medications called BTK inhibitors offer pill-based treatment options that some patients prefer over IV infusions. These include drugs like ibrutinib and acalabrutinib, which work through different mechanisms to fight cancer.

Your healthcare team will discuss all available options with you, considering your preferences, lifestyle, and medical needs to create the most appropriate treatment plan.

Is Ublituximab-xiiy Better Than Rituximab?

Ublituximab-xiiy and rituximab are both effective treatments for CLL and SLL, but they have some differences that might make one more suitable for you than the other. Both medications work by targeting the same CD20 protein on cancer cells.

Some studies suggest that ublituximab-xiiy may work faster than rituximab in clearing cancer cells from the blood. It might also cause fewer infusion reactions in some patients, though both medications can cause similar side effects overall.

The choice between these medications often depends on factors like your insurance coverage, the treatment center's experience, and your doctor's recommendation based on your specific case. Both are considered effective options for treating blood cancers.

Your oncologist will help you understand which medication might work best for your particular situation, considering your medical history and treatment goals.