Managing Side Effects of Darzalex Faspro: An Overview
Darzalex Faspro, a brand-name prescription medication, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating certain types of multiple myeloma and light-chain amyloidosis [1]. However, like many medications, it comes with potential side effects.
Symptoms of blood cell disorders can vary depending on the affected blood cell. Some symptoms to watch for include bleeding more than usual after minor cuts or scrapes, fever or chills, frequent infections or infections that won't go away, runny nose, and shortness of breath [2]. Blood cell disorders, such as neutropenia, leukopenia, lymphocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, were reported in clinical trials of Darzalex Faspro, and these disorders can increase the risk of developing an infection [2].
The common side effects of Darzalex Faspro include upper respiratory infections, neutropenia (low neutrophil count), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), diarrhea, and infusion- or injection-related reactions [1][2]. Mild injection reactions can include bleeding, bruising, itchiness, pain, skin rash, skin redness or other color changes, and other mild reactions like a stuffy nose, cough, nausea, and sore throat [2].
To manage these side effects, patients are typically premedicated with antihistamines, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids before Darzalex Faspro injections, and postmedications following an injection of the drug are often prescribed [2]. If severe or life-threatening reactions occur, treatment should be stopped immediately [2].
More common side effects of Darzalex Faspro for multiple myeloma include upper respiratory tract infection, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation [1]. For light-chain amyloidosis, more common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, swelling in arms, hands, feet, and legs, and fatigue [1].
While anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, was not common in clinical trials, it is still a potential risk [1]. If you notice mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, or rash, report them to your doctor. For serious symptoms requiring immediate medical attention, call 911 or your local emergency number [1].
Serious injection reactions to Darzalex Faspro can include eye-related side effects, low levels of oxygen in your body, fast heart rate, high or low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and a type of severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis [1]. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical help.
Swelling in arms, hands, feet, and legs is possible with Darzalex Faspro, and it was more common in people who received the drug for light-chain amyloidosis [1]. This swelling can sometimes be a symptom of heart failure, which Darzalex Faspro may cause in rare cases [1]. If you notice swelling, talk with your doctor right away.
Joint pain was reported in some people receiving Darzalex Faspro in clinical trials, but it was not a common side effect [2]. If you experience joint pain while receiving Darzalex Faspro, talk with your doctor. They may recommend joint pain treatment, such as a topical cream or ointment.
Long-term side effects of Darzalex Faspro may include blood cell disorders, certain heart problems, certain neurological effects, and certain infections [1]. It's important to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before starting treatment.
In conclusion, Darzalex Faspro can be an effective treatment for blood cell disorders, but it's essential to be aware of its potential side effects and to discuss these risks with your doctor. Regular monitoring and appropriate premedication can help manage these side effects.
[1] Darzalex Faspro (daratumumab/hyaluronidase-fihj) Prescribing Information. Janssen Biotech, Inc. 2021. [2] Darzalex Faspro (daratumumab/hyaluronidase-fihj) Highlights of Prescribing Information. Janssen Biotech, Inc. 2021.
- Blood cell disorders, such as anemia, neutropenia, lymphocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and others, can occur as side effects of Darzalex Faspro, increasing the risk of developing infections.
- Common side effects of Darzalex Faspro for multiple myeloma include upper respiratory infections, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation, while for light-chain amyloidosis, they include upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, swelling in arms, hands, feet, and legs, and fatigue.
- Serious injection reactions to Darzalex Faspro can include eye-related side effects, low levels of oxygen in your body, fast heart rate, high or low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.
- Long-term side effects of Darzalex Faspro may include blood cell disorders, certain heart problems, certain neurological effects, and certain infections, making it crucial to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before starting treatment.
