Monjuvi (Tafasitamab-Cxix) for Lymphoma

Overview
Monjuvi is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with two types of relapsed or refractory (returned or not responding to treatment) lymphoma. It is used in combination with lenalidomide for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in people who are not eligible for an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), and in combination with lenalidomide and rituximab for follicular lymphoma (FL). Monjuvi is also known by its drug name, tafasitamab-cxix.

Monjuvi is a biologic drug called a CD19-directed cytolytic antibody. It works by targeting the CD19 protein found on certain immune cells, including cancerous B cells. Once attached, it helps the immune system detect and destroy these lymphoma cells.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Monjuvi is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion.

For diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, the typical dosing schedule is:

• Cycle 1 — Days 1, 4, 8, 15, and 22 of the 28-day cycle
• Cycles 2 and 3 — Days 1, 8, 15, and 22
• Cycle 4 and beyond — Days 1 and 15 of each 28-day cycle

Monjuvi is given with lenalidomide for up to 12 cycles and may continue as a single treatment until the disease worsens or side effects become too severe.

For follicular lymphoma, the dosing schedule is:

• Cycles 1 to 3 — Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of each 28-day cycle
• Cycles 4 to 12 — Days 1 and 15 of each 28-day cycle

Monjuvi is used with lenalidomide for all 12 cycles and with rituximab during cycles 1 through 5. Monjuvi should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Monjuvi for DLBCL include neutropenia (low levels of a type of white blood cell), respiratory tract infection, fatigue, anemia (low red blood cell count), diarrhea, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), cough, fever, swelling in the limbs, and decreased appetite.

Common side effects of Monjuvi for FL include respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, rash, fatigue, constipation, musculoskeletal pain, and cough. The most common serious laboratory side effects are decreased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes (types of immune cells).

Rare but serious side effects may include infusion-related reactions (such as fever, chills, or breathing problems during or shortly after the infusion), myelosuppression (reduced bone marrow function leading to fewer blood cells), and serious infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Monjuvi may also harm an unborn baby, so people who can become pregnant should use effective birth control while being treated.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Monjuvi (Tafasitamab-Cxix) for Injection, for Intravenous Use — Incyte