What drugs are used to treat Waldenstrom?
Common drugs for treating Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia that is causing symptoms or is growing or spreading include:
- Bendamustine (Treanda), which is used to treat Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia when it is first diagnosed or when it returns.
- Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
- Fludarabine (Fludara)
How do you manage Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia?
The treatment of WM has evolved rapidly, with treatment options that include anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody-based combinations and BTK inhibitors. The choice of therapy is based on the need for rapid disease control, presence of specific disease complications, and patient’s age.
How long does it take for Rituximab to respond to Waldenstrom’s?
The median time to best response for responding patients was 17 (range 3–32) months, and was not significantly different among those patients who achieved a partial response (16.6 months) and a minor response (21.5 months) (P = 0.78).
How does Rituxan work for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?
Rituximab (Rituxan) is the most widely used monoclonal antibody for WM. It attaches to a protein called CD20 on the surface of lymphoma cells . This attachment tells the lymphoma cell to die. Patients get rituximab by infusion into a vein (IV) at the doctor’s office or clinic.
How long can you live with WM?
In the last decade (2001-2010), the median overall survival for all WM groups has improved to just over 8 years compared to 6 years in the previous decade (1991-2000)….Median survival.
| ISSWM risk group | Median survival* |
|---|---|
| Low | 12 years |
| Intermediate | 8 years |
| High | 3.5 years |
What are the side effects of rituximab?
Side Effects
- Back pain.
- black, tarry stools.
- bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet.
- blood in the urine or stools.
- body aches or pain.
- burning or stinging of the skin.
- chest pain or tightness.
- difficulty with breathing.
Does Waldenstroms cause fatigue?
The most common signs and symptoms to first appear in people with Waldenström macroglobulinemia are weakness and extreme tiredness (fatigue) caused by a shortage of red blood cells (anemia). Affected individuals can also experience general symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
Can rituximab cause depression?
More common side effects in people using Rituxan for pemphigus vulgaris include: infusion side effects* depression. upper respiratory tract infection.
What is Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM)?
About Waldenström Macroglobulinemia: Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare, slow-growing, B-cell lymphoma, and is a subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The following list of medications are in some way related to, or used in the treatment of this condition.
What are the treatment options for relapsed Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?
Besides regimens used in the front-line setting, the other options for therapy in previously treated patients include ibrutinib, lenalidomide and chlorambucil. Open in a separate window Figure 2 Approach to the treatment of relapsed Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia. WM, Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia. Stem cell transplantation
Can a bone marrow transplant help Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?
In certain highly selected situations, a bone marrow transplant, also known as a stem cell transplant, may be used to treat Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. During this procedure, high doses of chemotherapy are used to wipe out your diseased bone marrow. Healthy blood stem cells are infused into your body where they can rebuild healthy bone marrow.
When should I seek a second opinion for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?
If time permits, it is often a good idea to seek a second opinion, particularly for a rare condition such as Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. A second opinion may give you more information and help you feel more confident about the treatment plan you choose.