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Common Side Effects of Polivy: What You Need to Know

Polivy (polatuzumab vedotin-piiq) is a medication used to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). As with any medication, Polivy can cause side effects, some of which may be severe. In this article, we will explore the most common side effects of Polivy and what you can do to manage them.

What is Polivy?

Polivy is a monoclonal antibody that targets a protein called CD79b, which is found on the surface of cancer cells. It is used in combination with other medications to treat relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a type of NHL.

Common Side Effects of Polivy

According to the prescribing information, the most common side effects of Polivy include:

Hematological Adverse Reactions

* Neutropenia: a decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. (occurring in 94% of patients)
* Anemia: a decrease in the number of red blood cells. (occurring in 84% of patients)
* Thrombocytopenia: a decrease in the number of platelets, which help blood to clot. (occurring in 74% of patients)

Infections

* Upper respiratory tract infections: such as the common cold or sinusitis. (occurring in 64% of patients)
* Urinary tract infections: such as a bladder infection. (occurring in 44% of patients)
* Pneumonia: an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs. (occurring in 24% of patients)

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions

* Nausea: a feeling of queasiness in the stomach. (occurring in 83% of patients)
* Vomiting: the act of bringing up stomach contents. (occurring in 64% of patients)
* Diarrhea: loose, watery stools. (occurring in 55% of patients)

Other Adverse Reactions

* Fatigue: feeling unusually tired or lacking energy. (occurring in 83% of patients)
* Musculoskeletal pain: pain or stiffness in the muscles, bones, or joints. (occurring in 74% of patients)
* Headache: a headache or migraine. (occurring in 64% of patients)

Managing Side Effects of Polivy

While these side effects can be uncomfortable, there are ways to manage them. Your healthcare provider may recommend:

Medications

* Antibiotics to treat infections
* Antihistamines to treat allergic reactions
* Anti-nausea medications to treat nausea and vomiting
* Pain relievers to treat pain and discomfort

Lifestyle Changes

* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help prevent dehydration
* Get plenty of rest to help manage fatigue
* Eat a balanced diet to help manage nausea and vomiting
* Exercise regularly to help manage musculoskeletal pain

Conclusion

Polivy is a powerful medication that can help treat certain types of NHL. While it can cause side effects, many of these can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience and to follow their recommendations for managing them.

Key Takeaways

* Polivy is a medication used to treat relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
* Common side effects of Polivy include hematological adverse reactions, infections, gastrointestinal adverse reactions, and other adverse reactions
* Side effects can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes
* It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience

FAQs

1. What is the most common side effect of Polivy?
Answer: Neutropenia, a decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection.
2. Can I still take Polivy if I have a history of infections?
Answer: It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history before taking Polivy.
3. How can I manage nausea and vomiting while taking Polivy?
Answer: Your healthcare provider may recommend anti-nausea medications and lifestyle changes such as eating small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods.
4. Can I still exercise while taking Polivy?
Answer: It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about exercising while taking Polivy. They may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise or taking regular breaks to rest.
5. How long will I need to take Polivy?
Answer: The length of treatment with Polivy will depend on your individual situation and response to the medication. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Sources

1. Polivy Prescribing Information. (2022). Retrieved from <https://www.polivy.com/prescribing-information/>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Polatuzumab Vedotin-Piiq. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/palatuzumab-vedotin-piiq>
3. National Cancer Institute. (2022). Polatuzumab Vedotin-Piiq. Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/polatuzumab-vedotin-piiq>

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