Chemotherapy Education

Campath
(Alemtuzumab)

• Indicated for relapsed and/or refractory B-Cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) in patients who have been treated and failed other treatments.
• A monoclonal antibody targeted at CD52 cells
• Given intravenously (IV) three times per week for a maximum of 12 weeks.
• Some of the side effects seen may include:

1. Allergic Reaction
   • Can occur during the infusion of Campath. Be sure to report any shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, back pain, itching, intense hot or cold sensations, or the sensation that your tongue or throat is swelling.
   • Special pre-medications are given to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. The nursing staff will be monitoring you closely during the infusion.
2. Bone Marrow Suppression
   • White cells, red cells, and platelets are affected by this treatment.
   • You may be at an increased risk for infection due to a low white blood cell count. Call for any temperature greater than 100.5 (day or night).
   • This treatment may cause anemia (a decrease in red blood cells). There are medications that help your white and red cells to recover.
   • Platelets help your blood clot. Therefore, you may be at an increased risk for bleeding. Be sure to report problems with nose bleeds, gum bleeding, or blood in your urine or stool.
3. Fatigue
   • Managed by balancing periods of activity with rest, increasing your fluid intake, and following a well-balanced diet including proteins and complex carbohydrates.
4. Higher risk of opportunistic infections
   • You will be given antibiotics to prevent certain types of infections.
   • Immune system may take 1 year to return to normal.

Front Range Cancer Specialists
"Fighting Cancer with Knowledge and Compassion"

Our Chemotherapy Clinic is located:
2315 East Harmony Road
Suite 110
Fort Collins, CO 80528

Phone 970 212 7600