Health Canada: BLINCYTO (blinatumomab) and Benzyl Alcohol Toxicity for Pediatric Patients
Murilo Freitas - 16:49, 12 de junio de 20181,558
0
Audience
Healthcare professionals including hematologists, oncologists, hospital and oncology pharmacists, and cancer clinic staff
Key Messages
Serious and fatal adverse reactions including “gasping syndrome” can occur in pediatric patients, particularly in neonates and infants treated with BLINCYTO containing benzyl alcohol as a preservative.
BLINCYTO has recently been authorized with an additional option of preparing a 7-day infusion bag containing benzyl alcohol for patients weighing greater than or equal to 22 kg. It is not recommended for use in patients weighing less than 22 kg.
When preparing bags of BLINCYTO solution for infusion in neonates, infants and patients weighing less than 22 kg, healthcare professionals are advised to only utilize preservative-free saline.
The Canadian Product Monograph has been updated to reflect this new safety information