Warnings & Recalls for Campath
Campath and Pregnancy
Campath has been listed as a
pregnancy Category C medication. When tested on pregnant animals, the medicine caused adverse effects on the fetus; however, this medicine has not sufficiently been tested nor has it been tested on pregnant women. Campath
should not be taken while breastfeeding or for
three months before breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking Campath.
Campath and Sex
Men who are taking Campath and have sex should use a condom, or be sure that their partner is using an effective form of birth control. Use these methods for
at least 6 months after taking Campath. Fathering a child while taking Campath may result in
birth defects or adverse side effects of the fetus. Men who are sexually active should consult their doctor about safely having sex while taking Campath.
General Warnings
Campath
should not be used by anyone who is allergic to alemtuzumab or anyone with:
- human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- an infection that has not been treated
- allergies to animal proteins
Patients should inform their doctor about their
medical history and any other medications, supplements or vitamins they are using before taking Campath. Let your doctor know if you have:
- any heart disorders or diseases
- bleeding disorders or a blood clotting problem
- any gastrointestinal problems
- breathing disorders such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- diabetes
Campath and Your Immune System
Campath may
decrease the the function of your immune system and make you more prone to illnesses or infections. Avoid others who may have an infection, the flu, any illnesses or colds. You may be prescribed other medicines to prevent you from contracting any illnesses while taking Campath.
"Live" vaccines may not work properly or be effective while taking Campath and
should not be taken during treatment with Campath.
Campath Treatment and Use
Campath | Alemtuzumab belongs to a group of medicines known as monoclonal antibodies made from animal DNA and is marketed by Bayer for treating B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Campath is prescribed to patients with leukemia who have been unsuccessfully treated with other medications, or persons who have had recent diagnosis of leukemia.
How Does Campath Work?
Campath works to treat leukemia by inhibiting the growth of leukemia cells by destroying T-cells, thus blocking formation. Campath kills these cells and prevents further progression of leukemia.
How to Take Campath
Campath is given through and intravenous (IV) injection to be administered in a hospital setting by a healthcare professional. Typically, Camptah is injected over a period of 5 days, then for a span of 3 days one year later. Dosage amounts vary depending on the patients case and treatment.
For more information, ask your doctor about injection procedures and general warnings.
