A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Gazyva, known generically as obinutuzumab, is a targeted monoclonal antibody therapy used primarily in the treatment of certain types of blood cancers, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and follicular lymphoma. This medication works by targeting specific antigens found on the surface of cancer cells, helping the immune system to recognize and destroy these cells more effectively.
Obinutuzumab belongs to a class of drugs known as CD20-directed cytolytic antibodies. By binding to the CD20 molecule on cancerous B cells, Gazyva initiates a series of immune responses that contribute to cell destruction. This targeted approach helps to spare normal, healthy cells, reducing the overall toxicity associated with traditional chemotherapy.
Before you buy Gazyva, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Gazyva cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C6504H10066N1732O2032S44 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | 100% (intravenous) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Obinutuzumab |
Elimination half-life | Approximately 28 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 1000 mg per infusion |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated; may cause fetal harm |
Brands | Gazyva |
Protein binding | Not applicable (monoclonal antibody) |
PubChem CID | 119542357 |
MedlinePlus | Not listed specifically for Gazyva |
ChEBI | 133894 (Obinutuzumab) |
ATC code | L01XC15 |
DrugBank | DB08930 (Obinutuzumab) |
KEGG | D10167 (Obinutuzumab) |
Routes of administration | Intravenous |
Gazyva is administered by a healthcare professional as an intravenous (IV) infusion. The dosing schedule typically involves multiple cycles, depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient's response to therapy.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL):
The initial dose is given on day 1 of the first treatment cycle, followed by additional doses on days 8 and 15 of the first cycle, and then once every 28 days for a total of six cycles.
Follicular Lymphoma:
The treatment begins with an induction phase, where Gazyva is given on day 1 of each 28-day cycle for six cycles. If the patient responds well, they may receive maintenance therapy once every two months for up to two years.
It is essential that patients receive pre-medication with a corticosteroid, antihistamine, and analgesic to minimize infusion reactions. Patients should be closely monitored during and after the infusion for signs of adverse reactions.
The active ingredient in Gazyva is obinutuzumab.
Gazyva should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiac disease or infections. Infusion-related reactions (IRR) are common and can be severe; therefore, monitoring during infusion is critical.
Patients should be screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection prior to initiation of treatment as Gazyva can reactivate HBV, potentially leading to severe or fatal hepatitis. Patients should also be aware of the potential for increased risk of infections while receiving Gazyva.
Gazyva can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either treatment. It is particularly important to avoid live vaccines during and after treatment with Gazyva due to the increased risk of infection. Patients should consult their healthcare provider about all medications and supplements they are taking before starting Gazyva.
Common side effects of Gazyva infusion include:
What is Gazyva (Obinutuzumab)?
Gazyva (obinutuzumab) is a monoclonal antibody that strengthens your immune system to help your body fight against tumor cells.
What is Gazyva used for?
Gazyva is used in combination with other cancer medicines to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma.
How does Gazyva work?
Gazyva works by targeting a specific antigen called CD20 found on normal and cancerous B-lymphocytes. It binds to this protein, signaling cells in our immune system to attack and destroy these B-cells.
Does Gazyva cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Gazyva. However, it can occur due to certain other side effects of Gazyva or other factors.
Is Gazyva chemotherapy?
No, Gazyva is not a chemotherapy drug. It is a targeted cancer therapy.
How effective is Gazyva?
The effectiveness of Gazyva varies based on the type and stage of cancer. For instance, in combination with chlorambucil, it significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
How long does Gazyva infusion take?
The standard Gazyva infusion is administered over 3-5 hours.
How long do side effects of Gazyva last?
Most of Gazyva’s side effects ease within a few days to weeks. However, some side effects may last for a long time.
Does Obinutuzumab cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Obinutuzumab.
Can you have alcohol with Obinutuzumab?
The drinking of alcohol (in small amounts) does not appear to affect the safety or usefulness of obinutuzumab.