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Elotuzumab (By injection)

Elotuzumab (el-oh-TOOZ-ue-mab)

Treats multiple myeloma.

Brand Name(s):

Empliciti

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through an IV placed in a vein.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor may give you other medicines (including an allergy medicine, fever medicine, stomach medicine, or steroid) 45 to 90 minutes before infusion to prevent unwanted effects.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine is used together with lenalidomide and dexamethasone or pomalidomide and dexamethasone. Lenalidomide and pomalidomide can cause birth defects if either partner is using it during pregnancy or conception. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine. Tell your doctor right away if you think you have become pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or any type of infection.
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Infusion reactions
  • Increased risk of infections
  • Increased risk for other cancers, including skin cancer
  • Liver problems
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, slow heartbeat
• Skin growths or changes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea, constipation
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024