Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), including serious or life-threatening reactions, can occur in patients receiving epcoritamab. Initiate treatment with the epcoritamab step-up dosage schedule to reduce the incidence and severity of CRS. Withhold epcoritamab until CRS resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity.
Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), including life-threatening and fatal reactions, can occur with epcoritamab. Monitor patients for neurological signs or symptoms of ICANS during treatment. Withhold epcoritamab until ICANS resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity.
Dosage guidance:
Safety: Ensure patients are well-hydrated prior to epcoritamab initiation. Avoid administering epcoritamab to patients with active infection. Should only be administered by a qualified provider with appropriate medical support to manage severe reactions (eg, cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome).
Pre- and postmedication: Premedicate prior to each dose in cycle 1; if patient experienced grade 2 or 3 cytokine release syndrome (CRS) with the previous dose, administer premedication in cycle 2 and beyond until epcoritamab is tolerated without subsequent grade 2 or higher CRS. See "Epcoritamab Recommended Pre- and Postmedications" tables below.
Clinical considerations : Provide prophylaxis for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia prior to initiating epcoritamab. Consider initiating herpes virus prophylaxis prior to initiating epcoritamab to prevent herpes zoster reactivation. Consider prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor administration as appropriate.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and high-grade B-cell lymphoma, relapsed or refractory: SUBQ: Note: Hospitalization is recommended for 24 hours following administration of the first full 48 mg dose (cycle 1 day 15).
Cycle number |
Day of treatment |
Epcoritamab dosec |
---|---|---|
a DLBCL = diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. | ||
b Continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. | ||
c Manufacturer's labeling, Thieblemont 2023. | ||
d For patients with DLBCL or high-grade B-cell lymphoma, hospitalization is recommended for 24 hours following administration of the cycle 1 day 15 dose. | ||
Cycle 1 |
Day 1 |
0.16 mg SUBQ (step-up dose 1) |
Day 8 |
0.8 mg SUBQ (step-up dose 2) | |
Day 15d |
48 mg SUBQ (first full dose) | |
Day 22 |
48 mg SUBQ | |
Cycles 2 and 3 |
Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Cycles 4 to 9 |
Days 1 and 15 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Cycles 10 and beyondb |
Day 1 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Last dose administered |
Time since last dose |
Action for next epcoritamab dose(s)a |
---|---|---|
a DLBCL = Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. | ||
b Administer premedications prior to epcoritamab dose and monitor appropriately. | ||
Cycle 1, day 1 (0.16 mg) |
>8 days |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. |
Cycle 1, day 8 (0.8 mg) |
≤14 days |
Administer 48 mg SUBQ, then resume the planned treatment schedule. |
>14 days |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. | |
Cycle 1, day 15 and beyond (48 mg) |
≤6 weeks |
Administer 48 mg SUBQ, then resume the planned treatment schedule. |
>6 weeks |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. |
Cycle |
Patients requiring medication |
Premedication |
Administration schedule |
---|---|---|---|
a DLBCL = diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. | |||
b Dexamethasone is the preferred corticosteroid when available. | |||
c Epcoritamab should be permanently discontinued if grade 4 CRS occurs. | |||
d CRS = cytokine release syndrome. | |||
Cycle 1 |
All patients |
Dexamethasoneb 15 mg oral or IV or prednisolone 100 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose and for 3 consecutive days following each weekly epcoritamab dose in cycle 1 |
Diphenhydramine 50 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose | ||
Acetaminophen 650 to 1,000 mg orally |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose | ||
Cycle 2 and beyond |
Patients who experienced grade 2 or 3c CRSd with the previous dose |
Dexamethasoneb 15 mg oral or IV or prednisolone 100 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to the next epcoritamab dose after a grade 2 or 3c CRS event and for 3 consecutive days following the next epcoritamab dose until epcoritamab is administered and tolerated without subsequent ≥ grade 2 CRS. |
Follicular lymphoma, relapsed or refractory: SUBQ:
Cycle number |
Day of treatment |
Epcoritamab doseb |
---|---|---|
a Continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. | ||
b Manufacturer's labeling, Linton 2024. | ||
Cycle 1 |
Day 1 |
0.16 mg SUBQ (step-up dose 1) |
Day 8 |
0.8 mg SUBQ (step-up dose 2) | |
Day 15 |
3 mg SUBQ (step-up dose 3) | |
Day 22 |
48 mg SUBQ (first full dose) | |
Cycles 2 and 3 |
Days 1, 8, 15, and 22 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Cycles 4 to 9 |
Days 1 and 15 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Cycles 10 and beyonda |
Day 1 |
48 mg SUBQ |
Last dose administered |
Time since last dose |
Action for next epcoritamab dose(s)a |
---|---|---|
a Administer premedications prior to epcoritamab dose and monitor appropriately. | ||
Cycle 1, day 1 (0.16 mg) |
>8 days |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. |
Cycle 1, day 8 (0.8 mg) |
>8 days |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. |
Cycle 1, day 15 (3 mg) |
≤14 days |
Administer 48 mg SUBQ, then resume the planned treatment schedule. |
>14 days |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. | |
Cycle 1, day 22 and beyond (48 mg) |
≤6 weeks |
Administer 48 mg SUBQ, then resume the planned treatment schedule. |
>6 weeks |
Repeat cycle 1 schedule starting at step-up dose 1 (0.16 mg SUBQ). Following the repeat of cycle 1 schedule, resume the planned treatment schedule. |
Cycle |
Patients requiring medication |
Premedication |
Administration schedule |
---|---|---|---|
a Dexamethasone is the preferred corticosteroid when available. | |||
b Epcoritamab should be permanently discontinued if grade 4 CRS occurs. | |||
c CRS = cytokine release syndrome. | |||
Cycle 1 |
All patients |
Dexamethasonea 15 mg oral or IV or prednisolone 100 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose and for 3 consecutive days following each weekly epcoritamab dose in cycle 1 |
Diphenhydramine 50 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose | ||
Acetaminophen 650 to 1,000 mg orally |
30 to 120 minutes prior to each weekly epcoritamab dose | ||
Cycle 2 and beyond |
Patients who experienced grade 2 or 3b CRSc with the previous dose |
Dexamethasonea 15 mg oral or IV or prednisolone 100 mg oral or IV (or equivalent) |
30 to 120 minutes prior to the next epcoritamab dose after a grade 2 or 3b CRS event and for 3 consecutive days following the next epcoritamab dose until epcoritamab is administered and tolerated without subsequent ≥ grade 2 CRS. |
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Note: Kidney function estimated using the Cockcroft-Gault equation.
CrCl 30 to <90 mL/minute: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; however, no clinically significant difference in epcoritamab pharmacokinetics was observed based on CrCl 30 to <90 mL/minute.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (effects on epcoritamab pharmacokinetics are unknown).
Mild impairment (total bilirubin ≤ ULN with AST > ULN or total bilirubin >1 to 1.5 times ULN and any AST): There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; however, no clinically significant difference in epcoritamab pharmacokinetics was observed based on mild hepatic impairment.
Moderate or severe impairment (total bilirubin >1.5 times ULN and any AST): There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (effects on epcoritamab pharmacokinetics are unknown).
American Society of Clinical Oncology guidelines for appropriate systemic therapy dosing in adults with cancer with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2: The dosing in the FDA-approved prescribing information should be followed in all patients, regardless of obesity status. If a patient with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 experiences high-grade toxicity from systemic anticancer therapy, the same dosage modification recommendations should be followed for all patients, regardless of obesity status (Ref).
Refer to "Dosing: Adult" for recommendations on restarting epcoritamab after dose delays.
Cytokine release syndrome: If cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is suspected, interrupt epcoritamab until CRS resolves; manage according to the table below and per clinical practice guidelines. Supportive therapy for CRS may include intensive care for severe or life-threatening CRS. Identify CRS based on the clinical presentation. Evaluate for other causes (eg, fever, hypotension, hypoxia) and manage appropriately.
CRS grade |
Presenting symptoms |
Actions |
---|---|---|
a Fever may be masked by premedications; if clinical presentation is consistent with CRS, follow CRS management recommendations. | ||
b Refer to "Dosing: Adult" for recommendations for restarting epcoritamab after a dosing delay. | ||
c If grade 2 or 3 CRS occurs with the second full epcoritamab dose (48 mg) or beyond, administer CRS premedications with each subsequent dose until an epcoritamab dose is administered without subsequent ≥ grade 2 CRS. Refer to "Dosing: Adult" for recommended pre- and postmedications. | ||
d CRS = cytokine release syndrome; CPAP = continuous positive airway pressure; BiPAP = bilevel positive airway pressure. | ||
Grade 1 |
Temperature ≥38°C (100.4°F)a, attributed to CRS. |
Withhold epcoritamab and manage per practice guidelines. Ensure CRS symptoms are resolved prior to the next epcoritamab doseb. |
Grade 2 |
Temperature ≥38°C (100.4°F)a with: Hypotension not requiring vasopressors and/or Hypoxia requiring low-flow oxygen (<6 L/minute) via nasal cannula or blow-by. |
Withhold epcoritamab and manage per practice guidelines. Ensure CRS symptoms are resolved prior to the next epcoritamab doseb. Administer premedicationc prior to the next epcoritamab dose. For the next dose, monitor more frequently and consider hospitalization. |
Grade 3 |
Temperature ≥38°C (100.4°F)a with: Hypotension requiring a vasopressor (with or without vasopressin) and/or Hypoxia requiring high-flow oxygen (≥6 L/minute) via nasal cannula, face mask, non-rebreather mask, or Venturi mask. |
Withhold epcoritamab and manage per practice guidelines, which may include intensive care. Ensure CRS symptoms are resolved prior to the next epcoritamab doseb. Administer premedicationc prior to the next epcoritamab dose. Hospitalize for the next epcoritamab dose. |
Grade 3, recurrent |
Permanently discontinue epcoritamab. Manage CRS per practice guidelines and provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care. | |
Grade 4 |
Temperature ≥38°C (100.4°F)a with: Hypotension requiring multiple vasopressors (excluding vasopressin) and/or Hypoxia requiring oxygen via positive pressure (eg, CPAP, BiPAP, intubation, mechanical ventilation). |
Permanently discontinue epcoritamab. Manage CRS per practice guidelines and provide supportive therapy, which may include intensive care. |
Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome: Monitor for signs/symptoms of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). Interrupt epcoritamab at the first sign of neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, and consider neurology evaluation. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Manage ICANS according to the table below and consider further management according to current practice guidelines.
Grade |
Presenting symptomsa |
Actions |
---|---|---|
a Management is determined by the most severe event (not attributable to any other cause). | ||
b If patient is arousable and able to perform Immune Effector Cell-Associated Encephalopathy (ICE) assessment:
| ||
c Not attributable to any other cause. | ||
d Refer to "Dosing: Adult" for recommendations for restarting epcoritamab after a dosing delay. | ||
e ICANS = immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome. | ||
Grade 1 |
ICE score 7 to 9b, or depressed level of consciousnessc (awakens spontaneously) |
Withhold epcoritamab until ICANS resolvesd. Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologist/other specialists for further evaluation and management (eg, consideration for initiating seizure prophylaxis with nonsedating, antiseizure medication). |
Grade 2 |
ICE score 3 to 6b, or depressed level of consciousnessc (awakens to voice) |
Withhold epcoritamab until ICANS resolvesd. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg IV every 6 hours (or equivalent); continue dexamethasone until resolution to ≤ grade 1, then taper. Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologist/other specialists for further evaluation and management (including consideration for initiating seizure prophylaxis with nonsedating, antiseizure medication). |
Grade 3 |
ICE score 0 to 2b, or depressed level of consciousnessc (awakens only to tactile stimulus), or seizuresc (either any clinical seizure, focal or generalized, that resolves rapidly, or nonconvulsive seizures on EEG that resolve with intervention), or raised intracranial pressure (focal/local edema on neuroimagingc) |
First occurrence of grade 3 ICANS: Withhold epcoritamab until ICANS resolvesd. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg IV every 6 hours (or equivalent); continue dexamethasone until resolution to ≤ grade 1, then taper. Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologist/other specialists for further evaluation and management (including consideration for initiating seizure prophylaxis with nonsedating, antiseizure medication). Provide supportive therapy as clinically appropriate (may include intensive care). |
Recurrent grade 3 ICANS: Permanently discontinue epcoritamab. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg IV every 6 hours (or equivalent); continue dexamethasone until resolution to ≤ grade 1, then taper. Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologist/other specialists for further evaluation and management (including consideration for initiating seizure prophylaxis with nonsedating, antiseizure medication). Provide supportive therapy as clinically appropriate (may include intensive care). | ||
Grade 4 |
ICE score 0b, or depressed level of consciousnessc (either unarousable or requires vigorous/repetitive tactile stimuli to arouse, or stupor or coma), or seizuresc (either life-threatening prolonged seizure >5 minutes, or repetitive clinical or electrical seizures without return to baseline in between), or motor findingsc (deep focal motor weakness such as hemiparesis or paraparesis), or raised intracranial pressure/cerebral edemac, with signs/symptoms such as diffuse cerebral edema on neuroimaging, or decerebrate or decorticate posturing, or cranial nerve VI palsy, or papilledema, or Cushing triad |
Permanently discontinue epcoritamab. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg IV every 6 hours (or equivalent); continue dexamethasone until resolution to ≤ grade 1, then taper. Alternatively, consider methylprednisolone 1,000 mg IV daily for ≥2 days. Monitor neurologic symptoms and consider consultation with neurologist/other specialists for further evaluation and management (including consideration for initiating seizure prophylaxis with nonsedating, antiseizure medication). Provide supportive therapy as clinically appropriate (may include intensive care). |
Adverse reaction |
Severity |
Actions |
---|---|---|
a Refer to "Dosing: Adult" for recommendations for restarting epcoritamab after a dosing delay. | ||
Hematologic toxicity |
ANC <500/mm3 |
Withhold epcoritamab until ANC is ≥500/mm3.a Consider prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor administration as appropriate. |
Platelets <50,000/mm3 |
Withhold epcoritamab until platelets are ≥50,000/mm3.a | |
Other cytopenias |
Withhold or discontinue epcoritamab based on the severity. | |
Infections |
Grades 1 to 4 |
Withhold epcoritamab or consider permanently discontinuing based on severity. Manage infection appropriately and as clinically indicated. Withhold epcoritamab in patients with active infection until infection resolves.a For grade 4 infection, consider permanently discontinuing epcoritamab. |
Other adverse reactions |
Grade 3 or higher |
Withhold epcoritamab until adverse reaction resolves to grade 1 or baseline.a |
Refer to adult dosing.
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified. Reported adverse reactions are for adults treated for large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) and follicular lymphoma (FL) unless otherwise noted.
>10%:
Cardiovascular: Edema (14% to 17%)
Dermatologic: Skin rash (FL: 28%; LBCL: 15%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Decreased serum magnesium (FL: 20%; LBCL: 31%), decreased serum phosphate (LBCL: 56%), decreased serum potassium (FL: 20%; LBCL: 34%), decreased serum sodium (51% to 56%), increased serum potassium (LBCL: 21%)
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain (17% to 23%), constipation (FL: 16%), decreased appetite (LBCL: 12%), diarrhea (20% to 26%; FL: grade 3: 2%), nausea (17% to 20%; LBCL: grade 3: 1%), stomatitis (FL: 12%), vomiting (FL: <10%; LBCL: 12%, grade 3: <1%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Decreased hemoglobin (59% to 62%; grades 3/4: 10% to 12%), decreased neutrophils (50% to 55%; grades 3/4: 30% to 32%), decreased platelet count (48% to 49%; grades 3/4: 8% to 12%), decreased white blood cell count (53% to 58%; grades 3/4: 19% to 22%), lymphocytopenia (87% to 94%; grades 3/4: 77% to 82%)
Hepatic: Increased serum alanine aminotransferase (45% to 47%), increased serum alkaline phosphatase (FL: 29%), increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (44% to 48%), increased serum bilirubin (FL: 28%)
Hypersensitivity: Cytokine release syndrome (49% to 51%)
Infection: Infection (including cellulitis [FL: <10%], herpes virus infection [FL: 12%], lower respiratory tract infections [FL: <10%], pneumonia [FL: 17%], upper respiratory tract infection [FL: 29%; LBCL: <10%], urinary tract infection [FL: 13%]), serious infection (FL: 40%; LBCL: 15%; including opportunistic infection [cytomegalovirus disease: FL: <10%], sepsis [FL: <1%; LBCL: 5%])
Local: Injection-site reaction (FL: 58%; LBCL: 27%)
Nervous system: Dizziness (FL: 11%), fatigue (29% to 37%), headache (13% to 20%), insomnia (FL: 13%), neurological signs and symptoms (FL: 13%; including amnesia, aphasia, balance impairment, confusion, encephalopathy, extrapyramidal reaction, hallucination, hypoacusis, mental status changes, neuralgia, tremor, vertigo, voice disorder), paresthesia (FL: ≤13%), peripheral neuropathy (FL: ≤13%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Arthralgia (FL: 14%), musculoskeletal pain (28%)
Renal: Increased serum creatinine (FL: 36%; LBCL: 24%)
Respiratory: Cough (FL: 20%), dyspnea (FL: 17%)
Miscellaneous: Fever (24% to 26%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Cardiac arrhythmia (≤10%), heart failure (FL)
Dermatologic: Pruritus (FL)
Hematologic & oncologic: Febrile neutropenia (3%), secondary primary malignant neoplasm (FL), tumor flare (LBCL), tumor lysis syndrome (LBCL)
Hepatic: Hepatotoxicity (FL)
Nervous system: Neurotoxicity (immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome [ICANS]: 6%)
Ophthalmic: Visual disturbance (FL)
Renal: Kidney impairment (FL: 10%)
Respiratory: Pleural effusion (LBCL), pneumonitis (FL)
There are no contraindications listed in the manufacturer's US labeling.
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Hypersensitivity to epcoritamab or any component of the formulation.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Cytokine release syndrome: Epcoritamab may cause cytokine release syndrome (CRS); may be serious or life-threatening. CRS occurred in approximately half of patients who received epcoritamab at the recommended dose. Grades 1, 2, and 3 CRS were reported. Recurrent CRS was also reported. Most CRS events occurred during cycle 1, predominantly with the full 48 mg dose in cycle 1, although CRS also occurred with the step-up doses. The median time to onset of CRS across all doses was 24 to 59 hours (range: up to 10 days) and the median time to CRS onset after the first full 48 mg dose was 21 to 61 hours (range: 14 days). CRS resolved in most patients and the median duration of CRS events was 2 days (range: 1 to 27 days). Signs/symptoms of CRS included pyrexia, chills, hypotension, hypoxia, dyspnea, and tachycardia. Concurrent neurological adverse reactions associated with CRS occurred in a small percentage of patients and included headache, confusion, tremors, dizziness, and ataxia. Patients who experience CRS (and/or other adverse reactions that impair consciousness) should be evaluated and advised not to drive and to refrain from operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery until resolution.
• Cytopenias: Epcoritamab may cause serious or severe cytopenias, including neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Grade 3 and 4 cytopenias (neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia) and neutropenic fever have occurred.
• Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome: Epcoritamab may cause immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), including life-threatening and fatal reactions. ICANS occurred in a small percentage of patients who received epcoritamab at the recommended dose. Grades 1 and 2 ICANS have been reported, along with one fatal ICANS case. Most ICANS events occurred during cycle 1 of epcoritamab treatment, with a median time to onset of ICANS of 16.5 to 21.5 days (range: 8 to 141 days) from the start of treatment in cycle 1. The median time to ICANS onset relative to the most recent dose was 3 days (range: 0.4 to 13 days). The median duration of ICANS was 2 to 4 days (range: up to 8 days) with ICANS resolving with supportive care in most patients. Clinical manifestations of ICANS included (although not limited to) confusion, lethargy, tremor, dysgraphia, aphasia, and nonconvulsive status epilepticus. The onset of ICANS may be concurrent with CRS, following resolution of CRS, or in the absence of CRS. Patients who experience signs/symptoms of ICANS or any other adverse reactions impairing cognition or consciousness should be evaluated, including potential neurology evaluation, and patients at increased risk should be advised not to drive and to refrain from operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery until resolution.
• Infection: Epcoritamab may cause serious and fatal infections. Serious infections (≥ grade 3), including opportunistic infections have been reported with the recommended epcoritamab dose (following step-up doses). The most common ≥ grade 3 infections were sepsis, COVID-19, urinary tract infection, pneumonia, and upper respiratory tract infection.
Special populations:
• Older adult: Patients with follicular lymphoma ≥65 years of age experienced a higher rate of fatal adverse reactions, primarily infections (including COVID-19), compared to patients <65 years of age.
Dosage form specific issues:
• Polysorbate 80: Some dosage forms may contain polysorbate 80 (also known as Tweens). Hypersensitivity reactions, usually a delayed reaction, have been reported following exposure to pharmaceutical products containing polysorbate 80 in certain individuals (Isaksson 2002; Lucente 2000; Shelley 1995). Thrombocytopenia, ascites, pulmonary deterioration, and renal and hepatic failure have been reported in premature neonates after receiving parenteral products containing polysorbate 80 (Alade 1986; CDC 1984). See manufacturer's labeling.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Solution, Subcutaneous [preservative free]:
Epkinly: Epcoritamab-bysp 4 mg/0.8 mL (0.8 mL); Epcoritamab-bysp 48 mg/0.8 mL (0.8 mL) [contains polysorbate 80]
No
Solution (Epkinly Subcutaneous)
4 mg/0.8 mL (per 0.8 mL): $1,615.72
48 mg/0.8 mL (per 0.8 mL): $19,388.59
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Solution, Subcutaneous:
Epkinly: Epcoritamab-bysp 4 mg/0.8 mL (0.8 mL); Epcoritamab-bysp 48 mg/0.8 mL (0.8 mL) [contains polysorbate 80]
Epcoritamab is available through specialty distributors. Distribution information is available at https://www.epkinlyhcp.com/order.
SUBQ: Inject required dose volume into the tissue of the lower part of the abdomen (preferred site) or the thigh. Rotate injection site from left to right (or vice versa), particularly during the weekly administrations (in cycles 1 to 3). Do not inject into tattoos or scars, or areas where the skin is red, bruised, tender, hard, or not intact.
Epcoritamab should be prepared and administered by a health care provider. If refrigerated, allow epcoritamab solution to equilibrate to room temperature for no more than 1 hour before administration. Discard unused epcoritamab solution beyond the allowable storage time.
An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and as follows, must be dispensed with this medication:
Epkinly: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/761324s000lbl.pdf#page=26
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and high-grade B-cell lymphoma, relapsed or refractory: Treatment of relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), not otherwise specified, including DLBCL arising from indolent lymphoma, and high-grade B-cell lymphoma in adults after 2 or more lines of systemic therapy.
Follicular lymphoma, relapsed or refractory: Treatment of relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma in adults after 2 or more lines of systemic therapy.
Epcoritamab may be confused with elotuzumab, mosunetuzumab, teclistamab.
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes (chemotherapeutic agent, parenteral and oral) which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error (High-Alert Medications in Acute Care, Community/Ambulatory Care, and Long-Term Care Settings).
None known.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
5-Aminosalicylic Acid Derivatives: May increase myelosuppressive effects of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Abrocitinib: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, these effects may be unmasked if the dose of anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapy is reduced. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase immunosuppressive effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, infections may occur with greater severity and/or atypical presentations. Risk C: Monitor
Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine): Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, these effects may be unmasked if the dose of immunosuppressive therapy is reduced. Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, infections may occur with greater severity and/or atypical presentations. Risk C: Monitor
Antithyroid Agents: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase neutropenic effects of Antithyroid Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Baricitinib: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Baricitinib. Risk X: Avoid
BCG Products: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of BCG Products. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of BCG Products. Risk X: Avoid
Brincidofovir: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Brincidofovir. Risk C: Monitor
Brivudine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Chikungunya Vaccine (Live): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Chikungunya Vaccine (Live): Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid
Chloramphenicol (Ophthalmic): May increase adverse/toxic effects of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Chloramphenicol (Systemic): Myelosuppressive Agents may increase myelosuppressive effects of Chloramphenicol (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Cladribine: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Cladribine. Risk X: Avoid
CloZAPine: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase adverse/toxic effects of CloZAPine. Specifically, the risk for neutropenia may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Coccidioides immitis Skin Test: Coadministration of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) and Coccidioides immitis Skin Test may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider discontinuing these oncologic agents several weeks prior to coccidioides immitis skin antigen testing to increase the likelihood of accurate diagnostic results. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
COVID-19 Vaccines: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccines. Management: Administer COVID-19 vaccine 2 to 4 weeks prior to the next scheduled dose of anti-CD20 therapy, if used chronically for the treatment of autoimmune disease. Revaccinate 6 months after completion of anti-CD20 therapy if used over a limited period. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inhibitors): Epcoritamab may increase serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Deferiprone: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase neutropenic effects of Deferiprone. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents whenever possible. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor the absolute neutrophil count more closely. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid
Denosumab: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Management: Consider the risk of serious infections versus the potential benefits of coadministration of denosumab and immunosuppressants. If combined, monitor patients for signs/symptoms of serious infections. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Deucravacitinib: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Efgartigimod Alfa: May decrease therapeutic effects of Fc Receptor-Binding Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Etrasimod: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Fexinidazole: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase myelosuppressive effects of Fexinidazole. Risk X: Avoid
Filgotinib: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Inebilizumab: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Inebilizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Influenza Virus Vaccines: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Influenza Virus Vaccines. Management: Administer influenza vaccines 2 weeks prior to starting anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. Vaccination of patients treated with these agents in the past 6 months is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Leflunomide: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Leflunomide. Management: Increase the frequency of chronic monitoring of platelet, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin or hematocrit to monthly, instead of every 6 to 8 weeks, if leflunomide is coadministered with immunosuppressive agents. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Linezolid: May increase myelosuppressive effects of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Risk X: Avoid
Nadofaragene Firadenovec: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nadofaragene Firadenovec. Specifically, the risk of disseminated adenovirus infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Natalizumab: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Natalizumab. Risk X: Avoid
Nipocalimab: May decrease therapeutic effects of Fc Receptor-Binding Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Ocrelizumab: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ocrelizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Ofatumumab: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ofatumumab. Risk C: Monitor
Olaparib: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase myelosuppressive effects of Olaparib. Risk C: Monitor
Pidotimod: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Pidotimod. Risk C: Monitor
Pimecrolimus: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk X: Avoid
Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Risk X: Avoid
Polymethylmethacrylate: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase hypersensitivity effects of Polymethylmethacrylate. Management: Use caution when considering use of bovine collagen-containing implants such as the polymethylmethacrylate-based Bellafill brand implant in patients who are receiving immunosuppressants. Consider use of additional skin tests prior to administration. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Promazine: May increase myelosuppressive effects of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Rabies Vaccine: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Rabies Vaccine. Management: Complete rabies vaccination at least 2 weeks before initiation of immunosuppressant therapy if possible. If combined, check for rabies antibody titers, and if vaccination is for post exposure prophylaxis, administer a 5th dose of the vaccine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ritlecitinib: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ritlecitinib. Risk X: Avoid
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: Myelosuppressive Agents may increase myelosuppressive effects of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other myelosuppressive agents. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for excessive myelosuppressive effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Rozanolixizumab: May decrease therapeutic effects of Fc Receptor-Binding Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Ruxolitinib (Topical): Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ruxolitinib (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Sipuleucel-T: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Sipuleucel-T. Management: Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing the use of immunosuppressants prior to initiating sipuleucel-T therapy. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) Receptor Modulators: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents). Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Topical): Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tacrolimus (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Talimogene Laherparepvec: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Talimogene Laherparepvec. Specifically, the risk of infection from the live, attenuated herpes simplex virus contained in talimogene laherparepvec may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Tertomotide: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Tertomotide. Risk X: Avoid
Tofacitinib: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tofacitinib. Risk X: Avoid
Typhoid Vaccine: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid
Ublituximab: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ublituximab. Risk C: Monitor
Upadacitinib: Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Upadacitinib. Risk X: Avoid
Vaccines (Live): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Vaccines (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Live). Risk X: Avoid
Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating). Management: Give non-live/inactivated/non-replicating vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to initiation or 6 months after anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. If vaccinated prior to B cell recovery, consider assessing immune response to vaccination. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid
Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated): Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may increase adverse/toxic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Anti-CD20 B-Cell Depleting Therapies may decrease therapeutic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Risk X: Avoid
Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated): Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Miscellaneous Oncologic Agents) may decrease therapeutic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Risk X: Avoid
Verify pregnancy status prior to treatment initiation in patients who could become pregnant.
Patients who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during therapy and for 4 months after the last epcoritamab dose.
Epcoritamab is a humanized bispecific antibody (IgG1). Human IgG crosses the placenta. Fetal exposure is dependent upon the IgG subclass, maternal serum concentrations, placental integrity, newborn birth weight, and gestational age, generally increasing as pregnancy progresses. The lowest exposure would be expected during the period of organogenesis and the highest during the third trimester (Clements 2020; Palmeira 2012; Pentsuk 2009).
Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted. Based on the mechanism of action, in utero exposure to epcoritamab may cause fetal harm. In addition, newborns exposed to epcoritamab in utero may develop B-cell lymphocytopenia.
It is not known if epcoritamab is present in breast milk.
Epcoritamab is a humanized bispecific antibody (IgG1). Human IgG is present in breast milk; concentrations are dependent upon IgG subclass and postpartum age (Anderson 2021).
Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended by the manufacturer during therapy and for 4 months after the last epcoritamab dose.
CBC (throughout treatment). Verify pregnancy status prior to treatment (in patients who could become pregnant). Monitor for signs/symptoms of CRS (eg, pyrexia, chills, hypotension, hypoxia, dyspnea, tachycardia); at the first signs or symptoms, immediately evaluate patients for hospitalization. Monitor for neurological signs/symptoms of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) during treatment; evaluate patient immediately at the first signs/symptoms of ICANS. Monitor hydration status. Monitor for signs/symptoms of infection (including opportunistic infections) prior to and during epcoritamab treatment.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening and management provisional clinical opinion (ASCO [Hwang 2020]) recommends HBV screening with hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B core antibody, total Ig or IgG, and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen prior to beginning (or at the beginning of) systemic anticancer therapy; do not delay treatment for screening/results. Detection of chronic or past HBV infection requires a risk assessment to determine antiviral prophylaxis requirements, monitoring, and follow-up.
Epcoritamab is a bispecific T-cell engaging antibody that targets CD3 and CD20 (Thieblemont 2023). Epcoritamab binds to the CD3 receptor expressed on the surface of T-cells and CD20 expressed on the surface of lymphoma cells and healthy B-lineage cells. Epcoritamab activates T-cells resulting in the release of proinflammatory cytokines, and induces B-cell lysis.
Onset: Circulating B cells decreased to undetectable levels (in patients who had detectable B cells at treatment initiation) following the approved recommended epcoritamab dose by cycle 1, day 15.
Duration: B cell depletion was sustained throughout treatment.
Distribution: Vd: 25.6 L.
Metabolism: Metabolized into small peptides via catabolic pathways.
Half-life elimination: ~22 days (after the end of cycle 3).
Time to peak: Following the first full (48 mg) dose in cycle 1: 4 days; following the end of cycle 3: 2.3 days.
Excretion: Clearance: 0.53 L/day (after the end of cycle 3).
Body weight: In patients who received the recommended epcoritamab dose, cycle 1 median average concentration was 31% lower in a group of patients weighing 85 to 172 kg and 13% higher in a group of patients weighing 39 to 65 kg, compared to patients weighing 65 to <85 kg.