Imetelstat

Generic name: imetelstat [ IM-e-TEL-stat ]
Brand name: Rytelo
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (188 mg; 47 mg)
Drug class: Miscellaneous antineoplastics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 25, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is imetelstat?

Imetelstat is used in adults to treat myelodysplastic syndromes with a certain type of anemia that requires a transfusion and it is usually given after other treatments have failed.

Imetelstat may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Imetelstat side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Some side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your medical caregiver if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, sweaty, or have a headache, chest tightness, back pain, trouble breathing, or swelling in your face.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• bruising, unusual bleeding;

• nosebleeds, any bleeding that will not stop;

• pain or burning when you urinate;

• blood in your vomit;

• bloody or tarry stools;

• diarrhea, stomach pain;

• bone or joint pain;

• redness;

• high blood pressure;

• chest pain not related to your heart; or

• fever, cough, chills, not feeling well, tiredness, weakness.

Your imetelstat treatments may be changed, delayed or permanently discontinued if you have certain side effects.

Common side effects of imetelstat may include:

• abnormal lab results;

• headache;

• muscle, joint, or bone pain;

• tiredness; or

• bacterial, or viral infection.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Imetelstat can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Call your doctor if you have bleeding that will not stop. Bleeding may also happen inside your body, such as in your stomach or intestines, or in your brain.

You may get infections more easily, even serious or fatal infections. Call your doctor if you have flu symptoms, cough, night sweats, neck stiffness, confusion, or vision problems.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• easy bruising, unusual bleeding; or

• an active or chronic infection.

May cause pregnancy problems such as miscarriage or harm an unborn baby. You may need a pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant. Use effective birth control while using imetelstat and for at least 1 week after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

It may be harder for you to get pregnant while you are using imetelstat. You should still use birth control to prevent pregnancy because the medicine can harm an unborn baby.

Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 1 week after your last dose.

How is imetelstat given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

Your doctor will perform tests to make sure imetelstat is the right treatment for you.

Imetelstat is given slowly over 2 hours as an infusion into a vein, usually once every 4 weeks. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

You will need frequent medical tests, and your next dose may be delayed or permanently discontinued based on the results.

You may be given other medications to help prevent serious side effects or allergic reaction. Keep taking these medicines for as long as your doctor has prescribed.

Store this medicine in the original container in the refrigerator away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze.

Imetelstat dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Myelodysplastic Syndrome:

7.1 mg/kg IV every 4 weeks
Duration of therapy: Discontinue if patient does not experience a decreased RBC transfusion burden after 24 weeks of treatment (i.e., 6 doses), or if unacceptable toxicity occurs

Comments:
-Administer as an IV infusion over 2 hours; monitor patient for at least 1 hour after infusion completion.
-Pretreatment medications are recommended to reduce or prevent infusion-related reactions.
-Assess CBC and liver function tests prior to administration, and then as recommended.

Use: For the treatment of low- to intermediate-1 risk myelodysplastic syndromes with transfusion-dependent anemia requiring 4 or more red blood cell units over 8 weeks who have not responded to or have lost response to or are ineligible for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents

Related/similar drugs

Reblozyl, azacitidine, Vidaza, Inqovi, Tibsovo, luspatercept

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your imetelstat injection.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid while receiving imetelstat?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect imetelstat?

Other drugs may affect imetelstat, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.01.