Generic name:
Nogapendekin alfa inbakicept - intravesical
Brand name(s)
Anktiva
Generic name:
Nogapendekin alfa inbakicept - intravesical
Brand name(s)
Anktiva
This medication is used in combination with another medication (BCG) to treat certain types of bladder cancer. It works by causing the body's defense system (immune system) to become more active against bladder cancer cells.
This medication may not cure your cancer. Delaying other treatment (such as surgery) could lead to a more serious condition (metastatic cancer). Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
This medication is given into the bladder through a tube (catheter) by a health care professional. It is usually given once weekly for 6 weeks during the first treatment cycle and then less often thereafter as directed by your doctor. Additional treatment cycles are given based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
The medication is left in the bladder for up to 2 hours and then released by urinating. Since the urine contains medication, you must sit down to urinate to avoid splashing of the urine.
After you receive the medication, drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Doing so helps clear the medication from your body.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
Frequent urge to urinate or bladder irritation with symptoms such as burning or pain may happen while you are receiving the medication and when you first urinate. You may also have pink/bloody urine up to 24 hours after you receive the medication. Muscle/joint pain, fever, chills, nausea, or tiredness may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using this medication. This medication may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before you start this medication. Ask about reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for 1 week after the last dose. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information last revised October 2024.
Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.