Timing of Infusion-Related Reactions After Kisunla Administration
Most infusion-related reactions (IRRs) to kisunla occur during or within the first 24 hours after infusion, with the majority occurring within the first 5-10 minutes of starting the infusion.
Timing of Infusion-Related Reactions
Based on the available evidence on infusion reactions to various medications:
Immediate reactions (most common):
Delayed reactions (less common):
Frequency and Risk Factors
IRRs are common with monoclonal antibodies and other infused medications:
- Approximately two-thirds of patients (median 63%, range 32-75%) experience an IRR during the first year of treatment 2
- Most IRRs occur within the first 3 months of starting therapy 2
- The first infusion carries the highest risk of reaction 2, 5, 6
- In one study of rituximab, 40.5% of IRRs occurred during the first infusion, dropping to 3-8% in subsequent infusions 6
Clinical Presentation of IRRs
IRRs typically present with the following symptoms:
- Cardiovascular: Hypotension, tachycardia, chest pain 2
- Respiratory: Dyspnea, bronchospasm, wheezing, chest discomfort 2
- Cutaneous: Rash, urticaria, pruritus, flushing, angioedema 2
- Constitutional: Fever, chills, headache 4
Management Strategies
For patients receiving kisunla infusions:
Close monitoring:
Premedication:
- Consider premedication with corticosteroids and antihistamines for high-risk patients
- Premedication with corticosteroids significantly reduces IRR risk (8.3% vs 41.2% in one study) 6
Infusion rate adjustment:
Important Caveats
- Anaphylaxis vs. IRR: True IgE-mediated anaphylaxis should be distinguished from non-allergic IRRs as management differs 3
- Rechallenge considerations: Rechallenge should not be attempted after suspected IgE-mediated anaphylaxis or Grade 4 IRRs 3
- Infusion rate impact: Extending infusion time from 20 to 40 minutes can significantly reduce reaction rates (from ~57% to ~10% in some studies) 2
Special Considerations
- Patients who develop IRRs may develop IgG antibodies, which can affect treatment efficacy 2
- Patients with persistent IgG or neutralizing antibodies may experience reduced treatment response 2
- For outpatient administration, ensure personnel are trained in managing anaphylaxis and emergency equipment is readily available 1