How it is administered

Tagraxofusp is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion. The recommended dose is 12 mcg/kg, administered over 15 minutes once daily on days 1 to 5 of a 21-day cycle. The first cycle is usually given in a hospital setting, with subsequent cycles possibly given in a suitable outpatient setting. The medication must be diluted and prepared by healthcare professionals before administration.

How it works

Tagraxofusp is a CD123-directed cytotoxin. It is a fusion protein made from recombinant human interleukin-3 (IL-3) and a truncated diphtheria toxin. The medication specifically targets cells that express CD123, a marker found on the surface of certain blood cancer cells, including those in blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN).

Once tagraxofusp binds to CD123 on the cancer cell, it is taken into the cell, where the diphtheria toxin component inhibits protein synthesis, leading to cell death. This targeted approach helps to destroy cancerous cells while minimizing effects on healthy cells.

Who Should take it

Tagraxofusp is indicated for adults and children 2 years and older with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). It can be used in patients who are newly diagnosed as well as those whose disease has returned or not responded to previous treatments.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with BPDCN, your doctor may recommend tagraxofusp as a treatment option. The decision to use this medication will depend on individual health factors and the specifics of the disease.

Who should not take it

There are no absolute contraindications listed for tagraxofusp. However, it should be used with caution in patients with certain health conditions. Patients with low serum albumin levels, significant liver or kidney dysfunction, or those with a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions may need special monitoring or adjustments.

Pregnant women should avoid tagraxofusp due to potential risks to the fetus, and women should not breastfeed while receiving this medication. Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting tagraxofusp.

Commonly used with

Tagraxofusp is primarily used as a single agent for BPDCN. It is not commonly combined with other medications for this indication, but supportive medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and acetaminophen are given before each infusion to reduce the risk of side effects.

Commonly tested with

Clinical trials for tagraxofusp in BPDCN have focused on its use as a single agent. There are no specific medications that are routinely tested in combination with tagraxofusp for BPDCN, but standard supportive care medications are used to manage side effects during treatment.