Drug Guide

Generic Name

Zolbetuximab-clzb

Brand Names Vyloy

Classification

Therapeutic: Anti-cancer agent, Monoclonal antibody

Pharmacological: CDH17-targeting monoclonal antibody

FDA Approved Indications

  • Gastric or gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma expressing CLDN18.2

Mechanism of Action

Zolbetuximab binds to CLDN18.2, a protein expressed on gastric and gastroesophageal cancer cells, inducing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) leading to tumor cell death.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: The dosage varies depending on the clinical trial protocol; commonly, it is administered intravenously every 3 weeks at doses determined by trial data.

Pediatric: Not established; currently under clinical investigation.

Geriatric: Dosing may require adjustment based on tolerability and renal/hepatic function.

Renal Impairment: No specific adjustments established; monitor closely.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustments established; monitor closely.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Not applicable; administered intravenously.

Distribution: Distribution primarily within the vascular and interstitial space.

Metabolism: Metabolized by proteolytic degradation into peptides and amino acids.

Excretion: Excreted via proteolytic pathways; no specific renal excretion data.

Half Life: Approximately 2-3 weeks, consistent with monoclonal antibodies.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to zolbetuximab or other monoclonal antibodies.

Precautions

  • Patients with prior allergic reactions to similar agents.
  • Monitoring for infusion reactions during administration.
  • Assess for signs of immune-related adverse events.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Infusion reactions (fever, chills, hypotension) (Common)
  • Nausea, fatigue (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Immune-mediated adverse events, including pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, endocrinopathies (Serious but less common)
  • Severe infusion reactions or hypersensitivity (Less common)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Other immunomodulatory agents, chemotherapy

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for infusion reactions, allergic responses, and immune-related adverse events.

Diagnoses:

  • Risk for allergic reactions
  • Impaired tissue integrity related to adverse events.

Implementation: Pre-medicate as indicated, monitor vital signs during infusion, observe for signs of adverse reactions.

Evaluation: Efficacy through tumor assessments, monitor for adverse effects.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Report any infusion reactions or allergic symptoms immediately.
  • Inform about possible side effects and importance of follow-up.
  • Avoid other immunosuppressive agents unless advised by the healthcare provider.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • Severe infusion reactions
  • Immune-mediated adverse reactions

Genetic Factors: Not specified

Lab Test Interference: No known interference.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Unknown; monitor for hypersensitivity, infusion reactions, or other adverse effects.

Treatment: Supportive care; discontinue infusion, provide symptomatic treatment, and monitor until adverse effects subside.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Do not freeze.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions until the expiration date on the package.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.