ADCETRIS® Warnings and Precautions

(brentuximab vedotin)

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Peripheral Neuropathy

ADCETRIS treatment causes a peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced peripheral neuropathy is cumulative.

In studies of ADCETRIS as monotherapy, 62% of patients experienced any grade of peripheral neuropathy. The median time to onset was 3 months (range, 0–12). Of the patients who experienced neuropathy, 62% had complete resolution, 24% had partial improvement, and 14% had no improvement at their last evaluation. The median time from onset to resolution or improvement was 5 months (range, 0–45). Of the patients with ongoing neuropathy (38%), 71% had Grade 1, 24% had Grade 2, and 4% had Grade 3.

In ECHELON-1 (Study 5), 67% of patients treated with ADCETRIS + AVD experienced any grade of peripheral neuropathy. The median time to onset of any grade was 2 months (range, 0–7), of Grade 2 was 3 months (range, 0–6) and of Grade 3 was 4 months (range, <1–7). By the time of the primary analysis, 43% of affected patients had complete resolution, 24% had partial improvement, and 33% had no improvement at their last evaluation. The median time from onset to resolution or improvement of any grade was 2 months (range, 0–32).

At the updated analysis of ECHELON-1, 72% of the patients who experienced peripheral neuropathy had complete resolution, 14% had partial improvement, and 14% had no improvement. The median time to partial improvement was 2.9 months (range, <1–50), and the median time to complete resolution was 6.6 months (range, <1–67). Of the patients with ongoing neuropathy (28%), 57% had Grade 1, 30% had Grade 2, 12% had Grade 3, and <1% had Grade 4.

In ECHELON-2 (Study 6), 52% of patients treated with ADCETRIS + CHP experienced new or worsening peripheral neuropathy of any grade (by maximum grade, 34% Grade 1, 15% Grade 2, 3% Grade 3, <1% Grade 4). The peripheral neuropathy was predominantly sensory (94% sensory, 16% motor) and had a median onset time of 2 months (range, <1–5). At last evaluation, 50% had complete resolution of neuropathy, 12% had partial improvement, and 38% had no improvement. The median time to resolution or improvement overall was 4 months (range, 0–45). Of patients with ongoing neuropathy (50%), 72% had Grade 1, 25% had Grade 2, and 3% had Grade 3.

In AHOD1331 (Study 7), 20% of pediatric patients treated with ADCETRIS + AVEPC experienced peripheral neuropathy of any grade (7% Grade 3, <1% Grade 4). Peripheral neuropathy was predominantly sensory. Of the patients who experienced peripheral neuropathy, 81% experienced sensory neuropathy and 29% experienced motor neuropathy.

Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.2 Anaphylaxis and Infusion Reactions

Infusion-related reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue administration of ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy. If an infusion-related reaction occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. Patients who have experienced a prior infusion-related reaction should be premedicated for subsequent infusions. Premedication may include acetaminophen, an antihistamine, and a corticosteroid.

5.3 Hematologic Toxicities

Fatal and serious cases of febrile neutropenia have been reported with ADCETRIS. Prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia and Grade 3 or Grade 4 thrombocytopenia or anemia can occur with ADCETRIS.

Start primary prophylaxis with G‑CSF beginning with Cycle 1 for adult patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated Stage III or IV cHL or previously untreated PTCL, and pediatric patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated high risk cHL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Monitor complete blood counts prior to each dose of ADCETRIS. Monitor more frequently for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, consider dose delays, reductions, discontinuation, or G-CSF prophylaxis with subsequent ADCETRIS doses [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

5.4 Serious Infections and Opportunistic Infections

Serious infections and opportunistic infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and sepsis or septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients closely during treatment for the emergence of possible bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.

5.5 Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden may be at increased risk of tumor lysis syndrome. Monitor closely and take appropriate measures.

5.6 Increased Toxicity in the Presence of Severe Renal Impairment

The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. Due to higher MMAE exposure, ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions may be more frequent in patients with severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. Avoid the use of ADCETRIS in patients with severe renal impairment [creatinine clearance (CrCL) <30 mL/min] [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

5.7 Increased Toxicity in the Presence of Moderate or Severe Hepatic Impairment

The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Avoid the use of ADCETRIS in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

5.8 Hepatotoxicity

Fatal and serious cases of hepatotoxicity have occurred in patients receiving ADCETRIS. Cases were consistent with hepatocellular injury, including elevations of transaminases and/or bilirubin. Cases have occurred after the first dose of ADCETRIS or after ADCETRIS rechallenge. Preexisting liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may also increase the risk. Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin. Patients experiencing new, worsening, or recurrent hepatotoxicity may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS.

5.9 Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Fatal cases of JC virus infection resulting in PML have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. First onset of symptoms occurred at various times from initiation of ADCETRIS therapy, with some cases occurring within 3 months of initial exposure. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Hold ADCETRIS dosing for any suspected case of PML and discontinue ADCETRIS dosing if a diagnosis of PML is confirmed.

5.10 Pulmonary Toxicity

Fatal and serious events of noninfectious pulmonary toxicity including pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), have been reported. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pulmonary toxicity, including cough and dyspnea. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, hold ADCETRIS dosing during evaluation and until symptomatic improvement.

5.11 Serious Dermatologic Reactions

Fatal and serious cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS or TEN occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy.

5.12 Gastrointestinal Complications

Fatal and serious events of acute pancreatitis have been reported. Other fatal and serious gastrointestinal (GI) complications include perforation, hemorrhage, erosion, ulcer, intestinal obstruction, enterocolitis, neutropenic colitis, and ileus. Lymphoma with preexisting GI involvement may increase the risk of perforation. In the event of new or worsening GI symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, perform a prompt diagnostic evaluation and treat appropriately.

5.13 Hyperglycemia

Serious events of hyperglycemia, such as new-onset hyperglycemia, exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. In studies of ADCETRIS monotherapy, 8% of patients experienced any grade hyperglycemia, with 6% experiencing Grade 3 or 4 hyperglycemia. The median time to onset for any grade or Grade 3 or 4 was 1 month (range, 0-10). Hyperglycemia occurred more frequently in patients with high body mass index or diabetes. Monitor serum glucose and if hyperglycemia develops, administer anti-hyperglycemic medications as clinically indicated.

5.14 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animals, ADCETRIS can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of ADCETRIS in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, brentuximab vedotin caused embryo-fetal toxicities, including significantly decreased embryo viability, and fetal malformations at maternal exposures that were similar to the clinical dose of 1.8 mg/kg every three weeks.

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 2 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. Advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to the fetus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

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Warnings and Precautions

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Peripheral Neuropathy

ADCETRIS treatment causes a peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced peripheral neuropathy is cumulative.

In studies of ADCETRIS as monotherapy, 62% of patients experienced any grade of peripheral neuropathy. The median time to onset was 3 months (range, 0–12). Of the patients who experienced neuropathy, 62% had complete resolution, 24% had partial improvement, and 14% had no improvement at their last evaluation. The median time from onset to resolution or improvement was 5 months (range, 0–45). Of the patients with ongoing neuropathy (38%), 71% had Grade 1, 24% had Grade 2, and 4% had Grade 3.

In ECHELON-1 (Study 5), 67% of patients treated with ADCETRIS + AVD experienced any grade of peripheral neuropathy. The median time to onset of any grade was 2 months (range, 0–7), of Grade 2 was 3 months (range, 0–6) and of Grade 3 was 4 months (range, <1–7). By the time of the primary analysis, 43% of affected patients had complete resolution, 24% had partial improvement, and 33% had no improvement at their last evaluation. The median time from onset to resolution or improvement of any grade was 2 months (range, 0–32).

At the updated analysis of ECHELON-1, 72% of the patients who experienced peripheral neuropathy had complete resolution, 14% had partial improvement, and 14% had no improvement. The median time to partial improvement was 2.9 months (range, <1–50), and the median time to complete resolution was 6.6 months (range, <1–67). Of the patients with ongoing neuropathy (28%), 57% had Grade 1, 30% had Grade 2, 12% had Grade 3, and <1% had Grade 4.

In ECHELON-2 (Study 6), 52% of patients treated with ADCETRIS + CHP experienced new or worsening peripheral neuropathy of any grade (by maximum grade, 34% Grade 1, 15% Grade 2, 3% Grade 3, <1% Grade 4). The peripheral neuropathy was predominantly sensory (94% sensory, 16% motor) and had a median onset time of 2 months (range, <1–5). At last evaluation, 50% had complete resolution of neuropathy, 12% had partial improvement, and 38% had no improvement. The median time to resolution or improvement overall was 4 months (range, 0–45). Of patients with ongoing neuropathy (50%), 72% had Grade 1, 25% had Grade 2, and 3% had Grade 3.

In AHOD1331 (Study 7), 20% of pediatric patients treated with ADCETRIS + AVEPC experienced peripheral neuropathy of any grade (7% Grade 3, <1% Grade 4). Peripheral neuropathy was predominantly sensory. Of the patients who experienced peripheral neuropathy, 81% experienced sensory neuropathy and 29% experienced motor neuropathy.

Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.2 Anaphylaxis and Infusion Reactions

Infusion-related reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue administration of ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy. If an infusion-related reaction occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. Patients who have experienced a prior infusion-related reaction should be premedicated for subsequent infusions. Premedication may include acetaminophen, an antihistamine, and a corticosteroid.

5.3 Hematologic Toxicities

Fatal and serious cases of febrile neutropenia have been reported with ADCETRIS. Prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia and Grade 3 or Grade 4 thrombocytopenia or anemia can occur with ADCETRIS.

Start primary prophylaxis with G‑CSF beginning with Cycle 1 for adult patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated Stage III or IV cHL or previously untreated PTCL, and pediatric patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated high risk cHL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Monitor complete blood counts prior to each dose of ADCETRIS. Monitor more frequently for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, consider dose delays, reductions, discontinuation, or G-CSF prophylaxis with subsequent ADCETRIS doses [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

5.4 Serious Infections and Opportunistic Infections

Serious infections and opportunistic infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and sepsis or septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients closely during treatment for the emergence of possible bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.

5.5 Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden may be at increased risk of tumor lysis syndrome. Monitor closely and take appropriate measures.

5.6 Increased Toxicity in the Presence of Severe Renal Impairment

The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. Due to higher MMAE exposure, ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions may be more frequent in patients with severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. Avoid the use of ADCETRIS in patients with severe renal impairment [creatinine clearance (CrCL) <30 mL/min] [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

5.7 Increased Toxicity in the Presence of Moderate or Severe Hepatic Impairment

The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Avoid the use of ADCETRIS in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

5.8 Hepatotoxicity

Fatal and serious cases of hepatotoxicity have occurred in patients receiving ADCETRIS. Cases were consistent with hepatocellular injury, including elevations of transaminases and/or bilirubin. Cases have occurred after the first dose of ADCETRIS or after ADCETRIS rechallenge. Preexisting liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may also increase the risk. Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin. Patients experiencing new, worsening, or recurrent hepatotoxicity may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS.

5.9 Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Fatal cases of JC virus infection resulting in PML have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. First onset of symptoms occurred at various times from initiation of ADCETRIS therapy, with some cases occurring within 3 months of initial exposure. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Hold ADCETRIS dosing for any suspected case of PML and discontinue ADCETRIS dosing if a diagnosis of PML is confirmed.

5.10 Pulmonary Toxicity

Fatal and serious events of noninfectious pulmonary toxicity including pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), have been reported. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pulmonary toxicity, including cough and dyspnea. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, hold ADCETRIS dosing during evaluation and until symptomatic improvement.

5.11 Serious Dermatologic Reactions

Fatal and serious cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS or TEN occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy.

5.12 Gastrointestinal Complications

Fatal and serious events of acute pancreatitis have been reported. Other fatal and serious gastrointestinal (GI) complications include perforation, hemorrhage, erosion, ulcer, intestinal obstruction, enterocolitis, neutropenic colitis, and ileus. Lymphoma with preexisting GI involvement may increase the risk of perforation. In the event of new or worsening GI symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, perform a prompt diagnostic evaluation and treat appropriately.

5.13 Hyperglycemia

Serious events of hyperglycemia, such as new-onset hyperglycemia, exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. In studies of ADCETRIS monotherapy, 8% of patients experienced any grade hyperglycemia, with 6% experiencing Grade 3 or 4 hyperglycemia. The median time to onset for any grade or Grade 3 or 4 was 1 month (range, 0-10). Hyperglycemia occurred more frequently in patients with high body mass index or diabetes. Monitor serum glucose and if hyperglycemia develops, administer anti-hyperglycemic medications as clinically indicated.

5.14 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animals, ADCETRIS can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of ADCETRIS in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, brentuximab vedotin caused embryo-fetal toxicities, including significantly decreased embryo viability, and fetal malformations at maternal exposures that were similar to the clinical dose of 1.8 mg/kg every three weeks.

Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 2 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. Advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to the fetus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

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