How it is administered

Motixafortide is given as a subcutaneous injection (an injection under the skin). It comes as a sterile, white to off-white powder that is reconstituted (mixed) with saline before use. The recommended dosage is 1.25 mg/kg of actual body weight, administered by slow subcutaneous injection (over about 2 minutes) 10 to 14 hours prior to the start of stem cell collection (apheresis). If needed, a second dose can be given 10 to 14 hours before a third apheresis. The injection is usually given in the abdomen, back or side of the upper arms, or thighs, and injection sites should be rotated.

How it works

Motixafortide works by blocking a receptor on stem cells called CXCR4. Normally, this receptor helps keep stem cells in the bone marrow by interacting with a natural substance called SDF-1α. By blocking this interaction, motixafortide causes stem cells to move from the bone marrow into the bloodstream, where they can be collected more easily for transplantation.

In patients with multiple myeloma, collecting enough healthy stem cells is a crucial step before undergoing an autologous stem cell transplant (a procedure where your own stem cells are returned to you after high-dose chemotherapy). Motixafortide, when used with another medication called filgrastim (G-CSF), increases the number of stem cells in the blood, making the collection process more efficient and successful.

Who Should take it

Motixafortide is intended for adults with multiple myeloma who are preparing for an autologous stem cell transplant. It is used in combination with filgrastim (G-CSF) to help mobilize (move) stem cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream so they can be collected and later returned to the patient after chemotherapy.

This medication is specifically indicated for patients with multiple myeloma who need to undergo stem cell collection for transplantation. It is not a treatment for myeloma itself, but rather a supportive medication to aid in the transplant process.

Who should not take it

Motixafortide should not be taken by anyone who has had a serious allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction to motixafortide or any of its ingredients. Signs of a serious reaction can include difficulty breathing, swelling, severe rash, or anaphylactic shock.

It should also not be used in patients with leukemia for stem cell mobilization, as it may mobilize leukemic cells into the bloodstream. Additionally, motixafortide can cause harm to an unborn baby, so it should not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 8 days after the last dose.

Commonly used with

Motixafortide is always used in combination with filgrastim (G-CSF), which also helps mobilize stem cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. The combination of these two medications increases the number of stem cells available for collection, making the process more effective for patients with multiple myeloma undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation.

Commonly tested with

Motixafortide has been tested in clinical studies together with filgrastim (G-CSF) in patients with multiple myeloma. The combination has been studied to evaluate how well it helps patients collect enough stem cells for transplantation compared to filgrastim alone.