Product Description
1. Technical Specifications
| Attribute |
Details |
| Brand Name |
Arzerra |
| Generic Name |
Ofatumumab |
| Strength |
1000 mg/50 mL (20 mg/mL) |
| Dosage Form |
Concentrate for solution for infusion (IV use only) |
| Packaging Size |
Single-use glass vial, 50 mL |
| Packaging Type |
Sterile vial with stopper & flip-off cap |
| Medicine Type |
Monoclonal antibody (anti-CD20) |
| Manufacturer |
Novartis / GlaxoSmithKline (original developer) |
| Distributed By |
Authorized oncology & specialty medicine distributors |
2. Product Description
Arzerra (ofatumumab) is a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against the CD20 antigen on B lymphocytes. It is an immunotherapy used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), including cases refractory to fludarabine and alemtuzumab. By binding strongly to a unique epitope on CD20, it mediates B-cell lysis via complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC).
3. Product Highlights
| Attribute |
Details |
| Therapeutic Category |
Antineoplastic / Monoclonal Antibody |
| Target |
CD20 surface antigen on B lymphocytes |
| Application Area |
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), B-cell malignancies |
| Mechanism of Action |
Binds to CD20 triggers CDC & ADCC depletion of malignant B cells |
| Administration |
Intravenous infusion only; not for IV push or bolus |
| Storage Conditions |
Store at 28 C, protect from light; do not freeze or shake |
4. Therapeutic Uses
-
Treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) refractory to fludarabine and alemtuzumab
-
In combination therapy for previously untreated or relapsed CLL in some regimens
-
Investigated in other B-cell malignancies (off-label in some settings)
5. Dosage & Administration
-
Typical dosing (CLL):
-
Initial cycle: 300 mg IV on Day 1, followed by 1000 mg IV on Day 8
-
Subsequent cycles: 1000 mg IV on Day 1 of each 28-day cycle
-
Total: Usually up to 612 cycles depending on indication and response
-
Infusion time: Start at a slow rate; increase gradually if tolerated
-
Premedication required: Corticosteroid, antihistamine, and antipyretic to reduce infusion-related reactions
6. Side Effects
Common:
-
Infusion reactions (fever, chills, rash, pruritus, dyspnea, hypotension)
-
Infections (upper respiratory, urinary tract)
-
Fatigue, nausea, diarrhea
-
Neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia
Serious:
-
Severe infusion-related reactions (rarely life-threatening)
-
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) due to JC virus reactivation
-
Hepatitis B virus reactivation (may be fatal)
-
Serious bacterial, viral, or opportunistic infections
7. Precautions & Monitoring
-
Screen for Hepatitis B prior to initiation; monitor during and after treatment
-
Monitor for infusion-related reactions (especially first infusion)
-
Regular CBC for cytopenias
-
Monitor for neurological changes (risk of PML)
-
Use with caution in immunocompromised patients
-
Pregnancy & lactation: Contraindicated; use effective contraception during therapy and for several months afterward
8. Handling & Disposal
-
Prepare under aseptic conditions using cytotoxic handling precautions
-
Dilute only in 0.9% sodium chloride IV infusion bag
-
Use in-line filter during administration
-
Dispose of unused portion and materials as per cytotoxic waste guidelines
Purpose and ApplicationArzerra 1000mg Solution for Infusion is designed for intravenous administration in adult patients. It is important that a licensed healthcare professional prescribes and supervises its use. Arzerra plays a critical role in specific medical treatments, underlining the importance of correct dosage and protocol adherence.
Storage and Handling GuidanceMaintain Arzerra in a cool and dry place, as per the storage instructions, to preserve its efficacy. Proper storage minimizes the risk of contamination or degradation of the solution. Medical staff and facility managers must ensure these conditions are consistently met during storage and handling.
FAQs of Arzerra 1000mg Solution for Infusion:
Q: How is Arzerra 1000mg Solution for Infusion administered?
A: Arzerra 1000mg is administered via intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinical setting. The specific infusion process and schedule are determined by the prescribing doctor.
Q: What is the recommended dosage for Arzerra 1000mg Solution?
A: The recommended dosage is determined by the attending physician based on the patients condition. Follow the dosage guidelines specified by the doctor without deviation to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Q: When should Arzerra 1000mg Solution be used?
A: Arzerra should only be used when prescribed by a doctor for adult patients requiring this therapy. It must not be administrated for any other indications or without professional supervision.
Q: Where should Arzerra 1000mg Solution for Infusion be stored?
A: Store Arzerra in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage conditions are crucial to preserve the medications effectiveness until used.
Q: What is the process for acquiring Arzerra 1000mg Solution in India?
A: Arzerra is supplied through authorized distributors, exporters, suppliers, traders, and wholesalers within India. Healthcare facilities must source it from these reputable channels to ensure product safety and authenticity.
Q: Who is Arzerra 1000mg Solution suitable for?
A: This medication is strictly intended for adult patients, as determined by a healthcare professional. It is not suitable for pediatric use or self-administration.
Q: What are the benefits of using Arzerra 1000mg Solution for Infusion?
A: Arzerra provides targeted medical treatment under stringent clinical supervision, aiming to address specific adult health conditions as prescribed by a doctor. Its controlled administration ensures both efficacy and patient safety.