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Brentuximab Vedotin
Brentuximab vedotin is a drug used to treat Hodgkin's lymphoma and a certain type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It comes as an injection that is administered intravenously (through an IV) every three weeks. This form of chemotherapy may not be suitable for some people who are taking certain medications or have certain medical conditions. Common side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea.
Brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris™) is a prescription medication approved to treat Hodgkin's lymphoma and a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma known as systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). It is reserved for use after other treatments have failed.
(Click What Is Brentuximab Vedotin Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, brentuximab vedotin can cause side effects. As with other chemotherapy medicines, the side effects can be significant. In fact, the majority of people who use brentuximab vedotin will experience some type of side effect during treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about ways to prevent or lessen side effects from this medicine.
Common brentuximab vedotin side effects include but are not limited to:
- Low white blood cell counts
- Tingling, numbness, or pricking sensations
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Nausea
- Diarrhea.
(Click Brentuximab Vedotin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD