Gemtuzumab ozogamicin

Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (marketed by Wyeth as Mylotarg) is a monoclonal antibody used to treat acute myelogenous leukemia. It is a monoclonal antibody to CD33 linked to a cytotoxic agent from the class of calicheamicins. CD33 is expressed in most leukemic blast cells but also in normal hematopoietic cells, the intensity diminishing with maturation of stem cells. When given to patients in first relapse, 15% of patients achieve a complete remission. ... more

Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (marketed by Wyeth as Mylotarg) is a monoclonal antibody used to treat acute myelogenous leukemia. It is a monoclonal antibody to CD33 linked to a cytotoxic agent from the class of calicheamicins. CD33 is expressed in most leukemic blast cells but also in normal hematopoietic cells, the intensity diminishing with maturation of stem cells. When given to patients in first relapse, 15% of patients achieve a complete remission. In the United States, it was approved by the FDA for use in patients over the age of 60 with relapsed acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) who are not considered candidates for standard chemotherapy. A notable complication of therapy with gemtuzumab is the increased risk of veno-occlusive disease in the absence of bone marrow transplantation. The onset of VOD can also be delayed and can occur at increased frequency following bone marrow transplantation. Common side effects of administration include shivering, fever, nausea and vomiting. Serious... less