Gemtuzumab(Mylotarg) is an antibody-drug conjugate targeting CD33, used to treat CD33-positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Its price varies significantly due to manufacturers and market supply, and currently only the original drug is on the market worldwide.
How much does Gemtuzumab/Mylotarg cost?
Original drug prices and specifications
The Hong Kong version of Gemtuzumab produced by Pfizer in the United States has a specification of 5mg/bottle. The treatment dose needs to be calculated based on the patient's body surface area. The standard dose for adults is 3mg/m². A single treatment may require multiple bottles of drug combination, and the total cost is high.
Current status of the generic drug market
There are no generic drugs for Gemtuzumab on the market. Due to the complex production process and patent protection, there is no substitute for the original drug in the short term. Patients need to rely on original drugs or participate in clinical trials to obtain treatment opportunities, which is a heavy economic burden.
After clarifying the price of the drug, patients need to understand the legal ways to purchase the drug. The following content will explain how to obtain Gemtuzumab and what to pay attention to.
Where can Gemtuzumab be purchased?
Gemtuzumab has not yet been approved for marketing in mainland China, and patients need to obtain it through special channels. Legality and drug quality are the core considerations for choosing a purchase channel.
Cross-border medical treatment
Original drugs can be purchased legally through prescriptions issued by medical institutions in Hong Kong or overseas. The drug must be transported at a temperature of 2-8°C throughout the journey, and the transportation cost increases by about 10%-15%. When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm that the drug packaging is complete, with batch numbers and quality inspection reports attached to avoid drug degradation due to temperature control failure.
Clinical trials and assistance projects
Some hospitals have conducted clinical trials of Gemtuzumab for the treatment of AML, and patients can apply for free medication. International leukemia organizations (such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) provide financial assistance, and eligible patients can be exempted from some fees. It is recommended to obtain drugs through formal medical channels first, and be alert to the possible risk of counterfeit drugs.
After choosing a legal drug purchase channel, you need to pay attention to serious adverse reactions during treatment. The following content will analyze the potential risks and countermeasures of Gemtuzumab ozogamicin.
Serious adverse reactions of Gemtuzumab ozogamicin
Gemtuzumab ozogamicin may cause serious adverse reactions in multiple systems. Timely identification and treatment are the key to ensuring the safety of treatment.
Hepatotoxicity and veno-occlusive liver disease
About 30% of patients have elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and 1%-5% may develop veno-occlusive liver disease (VOD). Symptoms include jaundice, ascites, and sudden weight gain. Liver function tests are required before treatment, and rechecks are conducted every two weeks during treatment. If total bilirubin is greater than 3 times the normal value or liver enzymes continue to increase, the drug must be permanently discontinued and liver protection treatment must be received.
Infusion-related reactions and bleeding risks
Allergic reactions (such as dyspnea and hypotension) may occur during infusion, and antihistamines and corticosteroids must be used in advance. Gemtuzumab ozogamicin can cause thrombocytopenia and increase the risk of bleeding. If platelets are less than 50×10⁹/L or intracranial hemorrhage occurs, medication should be suspended and platelets should be transfused.
During treatment, the doctor's orders must be strictly followed, and the electrocardiogram (QTc interval) and electrolytes must be monitored before each infusion. If fever, chills, or muscle pain occur, seek medical attention immediately. The drug must be prepared by professionals and must be used within 6 hours after opening. Through standardized treatment and close monitoring, Gemtuzumab can provide survival benefits for CD33-positive AML patients.
