AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL: 8,599 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
Boost Your Natural Energy & Metabolism
Mitolyn — 6 exotic plants to unlock your body's fat-burning power. 90-day guarantee.
Drug Class: CD19 Receptor Interactions [MoA] · Route: INTRAVENOUS · Manufacturer: Kite Pharma, Inc. · CELLULAR THERAPY · FDA Label: Available
First Report: 19520708 · Latest Report: 20250914
What Are the Most Common AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL Side Effects?
All AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cytokine release syndrome | 4,140 | 48.2% | 718 | 1,880 |
| Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome | 1,821 | 21.2% | 402 | 903 |
| Neurotoxicity | 1,327 | 15.4% | 239 | 615 |
| Pyrexia | 859 | 10.0% | 125 | 450 |
| Death | 756 | 8.8% | 756 | 68 |
| Disease progression | 745 | 8.7% | 326 | 137 |
| Hypotension | 398 | 4.6% | 86 | 223 |
| Neutropenia | 391 | 4.6% | 60 | 194 |
| Confusional state | 299 | 3.5% | 38 | 176 |
| Encephalopathy | 292 | 3.4% | 58 | 172 |
| Diffuse large b-cell lymphoma | 291 | 3.4% | 157 | 73 |
| Febrile neutropenia | 282 | 3.3% | 45 | 229 |
| Fatigue | 256 | 3.0% | 15 | 85 |
| Myelodysplastic syndrome | 249 | 2.9% | 113 | 27 |
| Pancytopenia | 239 | 2.8% | 64 | 151 |
| Aphasia | 231 | 2.7% | 20 | 128 |
| Tremor | 219 | 2.6% | 17 | 96 |
| Hypoxia | 211 | 2.5% | 51 | 110 |
| Drug ineffective | 202 | 2.4% | 63 | 87 |
| Thrombocytopenia | 198 | 2.3% | 40 | 112 |
Who Reports AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 38.5% female, 61.5% male. Average age: 58.8 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2010 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2014 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2016 | 7 | 2 | 5 |
| 2017 | 42 | 14 | 21 |
| 2018 | 603 | 64 | 251 |
| 2019 | 767 | 167 | 379 |
| 2020 | 635 | 136 | 314 |
| 2021 | 463 | 105 | 224 |
| 2022 | 723 | 153 | 354 |
| 2023 | 898 | 242 | 438 |
| 2024 | 646 | 200 | 303 |
| 2025 | 260 | 100 | 121 |
What Is AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL Used For?
AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Other Drugs in Same Class: CD19 Receptor Interactions [MoA]
Official FDA Label for AXICABTAGENE CILOLEUCEL
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
YESCARTA (axicabtagene ciloleucel) is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy. To prepare YESCARTA, a patient's own T cells are harvested and genetically modified ex vivo by retroviral transduction to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising a murine anti-CD19 single chain variable fragment (scFv) linked to CD28 and CD3-zeta co-stimulatory domains. The anti-CD19 CAR T cells are expanded and infused back into the patient, where they can recognize and eliminate CD19-expressing target cells. YESCARTA is prepared from the patient's peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which are obtained via a standard leukapheresis procedure. The mononuclear cells are enriched for T cells and activated with anti-CD3 antibody in the presence of IL-2, then transduced with the replication incompetent retroviral vector containing the anti-CD19 CAR transgene. The transduced T cells are expanded in cell culture, washed, formulated into a suspension, and cryopreserved. The product must pass a sterility test before release for shipping as a frozen suspension in a patient-specific infusion bag. The product is thawed prior to infusion [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16) ]. In addition to T cells, YESCARTA may contain NK and NK-T cells. The formulation contains 5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and 2.5% albumin (human).
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
AND USAGE YESCARTA is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of: Adult patients with large B-cell lymphoma that is refractory to first-line chemoimmunotherapy or that relapses within 12 months of first-line chemoimmunotherapy. ( 1.1 ) Adult patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, high grade B-cell lymphoma, and DLBCL arising from follicular lymphoma. ( 1.1 ) Adult patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s). ( 1.2 )
1.1 Large B-cell Lymphoma YESCARTA is indicated for the treatment of: Adult patients with large B-cell lymphoma that is refractory to first-line chemoimmunotherapy or that relapses within 12 months of first-line chemoimmunotherapy. Adult patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, high grade B-cell lymphoma, and DLBCL arising from follicular lymphoma.
1.2 Follicular Lymphoma YESCARTA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]</span> . Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s).
Dosage & Administration
AND ADMINISTRATION For autologous use only. For intravenous use only. Do NOT use a leukodepleting filter. ( 2.2 ) Administer a lymphodepleting regimen of cyclophosphamide and fludarabine before infusion of YESCARTA. ( 2.2 ) Verify the patient's identity prior to infusion. ( 2.2 ) Premedicate with acetaminophen and an H1-antihistamine. ( 2.2 ) Confirm availability of tocilizumab prior to infusion. ( 2.2 , 5.1 ) Dosing of YESCARTA is based on the number of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-positive viable T cells. ( 2.1 ) The target YESCARTA dose is 2 × 10 6 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 2 × 10 8 CAR-positive viable T cells. ( 2.1 )
2.1 Dose For autologous use only. For intravenous use only. Each single infusion bag of YESCARTA contains a suspension of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-positive T cells in approximately 68 mL. The target dose is 2 × 10 6 CAR-positive viable T cells per kg body weight, with a maximum of 2 × 10 8 CAR-positive viable T cells.
2.2 Administration YESCARTA is for autologous use only. The patient's identity must match the patient identifiers on the YESCARTA cassette and infusion bag. Do not infuse YESCARTA if the information on the patient-specific label does not match the intended patient.
Preparing
Patient for YESCARTA Infusion Confirm availability of YESCARTA prior to starting the lymphodepleting regimen. Pre-treatment Administer a lymphodepleting chemotherapy regimen of cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m 2 intravenously and fludarabine 30 mg/m 2 intravenously on the fifth, fourth, and third day before infusion of YESCARTA.
Premedication
Administer acetaminophen 650 mg PO and diphenhydramine 12.5 mg intravenously or PO approximately 1 hour before YESCARTA infusion. Consider the use of prophylactic corticosteroid in patients after weighing the potential benefits and risks [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 and 5.2) ] . Preparation of YESCARTA for Infusion Coordinate the timing of YESCARTA thaw and infusion. Confirm the infusion time in advance, and adjust the start time of YESCARTA thaw such that it will be available for infusion when the patient is ready. Confirm patient identity: Prior to YESCARTA preparation, match the patient's identity with the patient identifiers on the YESCARTA cassette. Do not remove the YESCARTA product bag from the cassette if the information on the patient-specific label does not match the intended patient. Once patient identification is confirmed, remove the YESCARTA product bag from the cassette and check that the patient information on the cassette label matches the bag label. Inspect the product bag for any breaches of container integrity such as breaks or cracks before thawing. If the bag is compromised, follow the local guidelines (or call Kite at 1-844-454-KITE). Place the infusion bag inside a second sterile bag per local guidelines. Thaw YESCARTA at approximately 37°C using either a water bath or dry thaw method until there is no visible ice in the infusion bag. Gently mix the contents of the bag to disperse clumps of cellular material. If visible cell clumps remain continue to gently mix the contents of the bag. Small clumps of cellular material should disperse with gentle manual mixing. Do not wash, spin down, and/or re-suspend YESCARTA in new medium prior to infusion. Once thawed, YESCARTA may be stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) for up to 3 hours.
Administration
For autologous use only. Confirm that tocilizumab and emergency equipment are available prior to infusion and during the recovery period. Do NOT use a leukodepleting filter. Central venous access is recommended for the infusion of YESCARTA. Confirm the patient's identity matches the patient identifiers on the YESCARTA product bag. Prime the tubing with normal saline prior to infusion. Infuse the entire contents of the YESCARTA bag within 30 minutes by either gravity or a peristaltic pump. YESCARTA is stable at room temperature for up to 3 hours after thaw. Gently agitate the product bag during YESCARTA infusion to prevent cell clumping. After the entire content of the product bag is infused, rinse the tubing with normal saline at the same infusion rate to ensure all product is delivered. YESCARTA contains human blood cells that are genetically modified with replication incompetent retroviral vector. Follow universal precautions and local biosafety guidelines for handling and disposal to avoid potential transmission of infectious diseases.
Monitoring
Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following infusion for signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic toxicities. Instruct patients to remain within proximity of a healthcare facility for at least 2 weeks following infusion. Advise patients to avoid driving for at least 2 weeks following infusion.
2.3 Management of Severe Adverse Reactions Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Identify CRS based on clinical presentation <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]</span> . Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. If CRS is suspected, manage according to the recommendations in Table 1. Patients who experience Grade 2 or higher CRS (e.g., hypotension not responsive to fluids, or hypoxia requiring supplemental oxygenation) should be monitored with continuous cardiac telemetry and pulse oximetry. For patients experiencing severe CRS, consider performing an echocardiogram to assess cardiac function. For severe or life-threatening CRS, consider intensive-care supportive therapy. Physicians may also consider management per current practice guidelines.
Table
1.
Crs
Grading and Management Guidance CRS Grade Lee et al. 2014.
Tocilizumab Corticosteroids Grade
1 Symptoms require symptomatic treatment only (e.g., fever, nausea, fatigue, headache, myalgia, malaise). If symptoms (e.g., fever) not improving after 24 hours, consider managing as Grade 2. If not improving after 3 days, administer one dose of dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously.
Grade
2 Symptoms require and respond to moderate intervention. Oxygen requirement less than 40% FiO 2 or hypotension responsive to fluids or low-dose of one vasopressor or Grade 2 organ toxicity . Refer to Table 2 for management of neurologic toxicity. Administer tocilizumab Refer to tocilizumab Prescribing Information for details. 8 mg/kg intravenously over 1 hour (not to exceed 800 mg). If no clinical improvement in the signs and symptoms of CRS after the first dose, repeat tocilizumab every 8 hours as needed. Limit to a maximum of 3 doses in a 24-hour period; maximum total of 4 doses. If improving, discontinue tocilizumab. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously once daily. If improving, manage as Grade 1 above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then quickly taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as appropriate grade below.
Grade
3 Symptoms require and respond to aggressive intervention. Oxygen requirement greater than or equal to 40% FiO 2 or hypotension requiring high-dose or multiple vasopressors or Grade 3 organ toxicity or Grade 4 transaminitis.
Per Grade
2. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above.
Dexamethasone
10 mg intravenously three times a day. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then quickly taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as Grade 4.
Grade
4 Life-threatening symptoms. Requirements for ventilator support, continuous veno-venous hemodialysis (CVVHD) or Grade 4 organ toxicity (excluding transaminitis).
Per Grade
2. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above. Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously once per day for 3 days. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, consider methylprednisolone 1000 mg 2-3 times a day or alternate therapy. Alternate therapy includes (but is not limited to): anakinra, siltuximab, ruxolitinib, cyclophosphamide, IVIG and ATG.
Neurologic Toxicity
Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicity/immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) (Table 2). Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Patients who experience Grade 2 or higher neurologic toxicities/ICANS should be monitored with continuous cardiac telemetry and pulse oximetry. Provide intensive-care supportive therapy for severe or life-threatening neurologic toxicities. Consider levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis for any grade of neurologic toxicities. Physicians may also consider management per current practice guidelines.
Table
2.
Neurologic
Toxicity/ICANS Grading and Management Guidance Grading Assessment Severity based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Concurrent CRS No Concurrent CRS Grade 1 Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 1 CRS. In addition, administer one dose of dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously. If not improving after 2 days, repeat dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously. Administer one dose of dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously. If not improving after 2 days, repeat dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously. Consider levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis.
Grade
2 Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS. In addition, administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously four times a day. If improving, continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then quickly taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as appropriate grade below. Administer dexamethasone 10 mg intravenously four times a day. If improving, continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then quickly taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as appropriate grade below. Consider levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis.
Grade
3 Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS. In addition, administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously once daily. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as Grade 4. Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously once daily. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, manage as Grade 4. Consider levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis.
Grade
4 Administer tocilizumab per Table 1 for management of Grade 2 CRS. In addition, administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously twice per day. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, consider 1000 mg of methylprednisolone intravenously 3 times a day or alternate therapy. Alternate therapy includes (but is not limited to): anakinra, siltuximab, ruxolitinib, cyclophosphamide, IVIG and ATG. Administer methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously twice per day. If improving, manage as appropriate grade above and continue corticosteroids until the severity is Grade 1 or less, then taper as clinically appropriate. If not improving, consider 1000 mg of methylprednisolone intravenously 3 times a day or alternate therapy. Consider levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis.
Contraindications
None. None. ( 4 )
Known Adverse Reactions
REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 30%), excluding laboratory abnormalities, in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are CRS, fever, hypotension, encephalopathy, fatigue, tachycardia, headache, nausea, febrile neutropenia, diarrhea, musculoskeletal pain, infections with pathogen unspecified, chills and decreased appetite. ( 6.1 ) The most common Grade 3-4 laboratory abnormalities (≥ 30%) are leukopenia, lymphopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hypophosphatemia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety data described in the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and in the ADVERSE REACTIONS sections reflect exposure to a single dose of YESCARTA in four clinical studies, including 168 patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL (Study 1), 108 patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL (Study 2), 146 patients with relapsed or refractory iNHL (including 124 with FL; Study 3), and 13 patients with relapsed or refractory primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL) (Study 4). Relapsed or Refractory Large B-cell Lymphoma Study 1 The safety of YESCARTA was evaluated in Study 1, a randomized, open-label, multicenter study in which patients with primary refractory LBCL or first relapse of LBCL received YESCARTA (N = 168) or standard therapy (N = 168) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14) ]</span> . Patients had not yet received treatment for relapsed or refractory lymphoma and were potential candidates for autologous HSCT. The trial excluded patients who were not deemed candidates for transplant or who had a history of central nervous system (CNS) disorders (such as seizures or cerebrovascular ischemia), serious or uncontrolled infection, or autoimmune disease requiring systemic immunosuppression. The study required ANC ≥ 1000/mm 3 , platelet count ≥ 75,000/mm 3 , creatinine clearance ≥ 60 ml/min, AST/ALT ≤ 2.5 × ULN, and total bilirubin ≤ 1.5 mg/dL. The median age of the YESCARTA-treated safety population was 59 years (range: 21 to 80 years); 62% were male. The baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status was 0 in 54% of patients and 1 in 46%. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 50% of patients. The most common serious adverse reactions (> 5%) included CRS, fever, encephalopathy, hypotension, infection with unspecified pathogen, and pneumonia. Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 2% of patients. Sixty-seven percent (112/168) of patients received tocilizumab after infusion of YESCARTA.
Table
3 summarizes selected non-laboratory adverse reactions in patients treated with YESCARTA, and Table 4 summarizes selected new or worsening Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities.
Table
3.
Adverse
Reactions in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory LBCL in Study 1 Adverse Reaction YESCARTA N = 168 Any Grade (%)
Grade
3 or Higher (%) Blood and Lymphatic System Disorder Febrile neutropenia 31 31 Cardiac Disorders Tachycardia Represents a composite of multiple, related preferred terms. 43 2 Arrhythmia 14 3 Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea Diarrhea includes diarrhea, colitis. 42 3 Nausea 40 2 Abdominal pain 20 4 Constipation 20 0 Vomiting 20 0 Dry Mouth 10 0 General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Fever 93 9 Fatigue 52 7 Chills 28 1 Edema 23 1 Immune System Disorders Cytokine release syndrome CRS includes coagulopathy, tachycardia, arrhythmia, cardiac failure, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, fatigue, chills, edema, decreased appetite, musculoskeletal pain, headache, tremor, dizziness, renal insufficiency, cough, hypoxia, dyspnea, pleural effusion, respiratory failure, rash, hypotension, and hypertension. 92 7 Hypogammaglobulinemia 11 0 Infections and Infestations Infections with pathogen unspecified 25 8 Viral infections 15 4 Bacterial infections 10 5 Fungal infections 10 1 Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Decreased appetite 24 4 Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Musculoskeletal pain 40 1 Motor dysfunction Motor dysfunction includes muscle contractions involuntary, muscle spasms, muscle twitching, muscular weakness. 15 4 Nervous System Disorders Encephalopathy Encephalopathy includes encephalopathy, altered state of consciousness, amnesia, apraxia, bradyphrenia, cognitive disorder, confusional state, depressed level of consciousness, disturbance in attention, dysarthria, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, lethargy, loss of consciousness, memory impairment, mental impairment, mental status changes, metabolic encephalopathy, slow speech, somnolence, toxic encephalopathy. 46 18 Headache 41 3 Tremor 25 1 Dizziness 25 4 Aphasia 20 7 Neuropathy peripheral 11 2 Psychiatric Disorders Insomnia 13 0 Delirium Delirium includes delirium, agitation, delusion, disorientation, hallucination, irritability, restlessness. 12 4 Renal and Urinary Disorders Renal insufficiency 11 2 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders Cough 27 1 Hypoxia 21 9 Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Rash 17 1 Vascular Disorders Hypotension 47 11 Other clinically important adverse reactions that occurred in less than 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA include the following: Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Coagulopathy (9%) Cardiac disorders: Cardiac failure (1%)
Eye
Disorders: Visual impairment (7%) Infections and infestations: Pneumonia (8%), Sepsis (4%) Nervous system disorders: Ataxia (6%), seizure (3%), myoclonus (2%), facial paralysis (2%), paresis (2%) Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Dyspnea (8%), pleural effusion (6%), respiratory failure (2%) Vascular disorders: Hypertension (9%), thrombosis (7%) Laboratory abnormalities: Table 4.
Grade
3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory LBCL in Study 1 Baseline lab values were assessed prior to lymphodepleting chemotherapy. (N = 168)
Laboratory
Abnormality YESCARTA Grades 3 or 4 (%) Leukocyte decrease 95 Neutrophil decrease 94 Lymphocyte decrease 94 Hemoglobin decrease 40 Platelet decrease 26 Sodium decrease 12 Glucose increase 11 Study 2 The safety of YESCARTA was evaluated in Study 2, a study in which 108 patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL received CD19-positive CAR T cells based on a recommended dose which was weight-based [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . Patients with a history of CNS disorders (such as seizures or cerebrovascular ischemia) or autoimmune disease requiring systemic immunosuppression were ineligible. The median age of the study population was 58 years (range: 23 to 76 years); 68% were male. The baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status was 0 in 43% of patients and 1 in 57% of patients. The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) included CRS, fever, hypotension, encephalopathy, tachycardia, fatigue, headache, decreased appetite, chills, diarrhea, febrile neutropenia, infections with pathogen unspecified, nausea, hypoxia, tremor, cough, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, and cardiac arrhythmias. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 52% of patients. The most common serious adverse reactions (> 2%) included encephalopathy, fever, lung infection, febrile neutropenia, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac failure, urinary tract infection, renal insufficiency, aphasia, cardiac arrest, Clostridium difficile infection, delirium, hypotension, and hypoxia. The most common (≥ 10%)
Grade
3 or higher reactions included febrile neutropenia, fever, CRS, encephalopathy, infections with pathogen unspecified, hypotension, hypoxia, and lung infections. Forty-five percent (49/108) of patients received tocilizumab after infusion of YESCARTA.
Table
5 summarizes non-laboratory adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA, and Table 6 describes the laboratory abnormalities of Grade 3 or 4 that occurred in ≥ 10% of patients.
Table
5.
Adverse Reactions
Observed in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory LBCL in Study 2 (N = 108)
Adverse Reaction Any
Grade (%)
Grade
3 or Higher (%) Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders Febrile neutropenia 34 31 Cardiac Disorders Tachycardia Represents a composite of multiple, related preferred terms. 57 2 Arrhythmia 23 7 Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea 38 4 Nausea 34 0 Vomiting 26 1 Constipation 23 0 Abdominal pain 14 1 Dry mouth 11 0 General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Fever Fever includes fever, febrile neutropenia. 86 16 Fatigue 46 3 Chills 40 0 Edema 19 1 Immune System Disorders Cytokine release syndrome CRS includes tachycardia, arrhythmia, fever, chills, hypoxia, renal insufficiency, and hypotension. 94 13 Hypogammaglobulinemia 15 0 Infections and Infestations Infections with pathogen unspecified 26 16 Viral infections 16 4 Bacterial infections 13 9 Investigations Decreased appetite 44 2 Weight decreased 16 0 Dehydration 11 3 Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Motor dysfunction Motor dysfunction includes muscle spasms, muscular weakness. 19 1 Pain in extremity 17 2 Back pain 15 1 Muscle pain 14 1 Arthralgia 10 0 Nervous System Disorders Encephalopathy Encephalopathy includes cognitive disorder, confusional state, depressed level of consciousness, disturbance in attention, encephalopathy, hypersomnia, leukoencephalopathy, memory impairment, mental status changes, paranoia, somnolence, stupor. 57 29 Headache 45 1 Tremor 31 2 Dizziness 21 1 Aphasia 18 6 Psychiatric Disorders Delirium Delirium includes agitation, delirium, delusion, disorientation, hallucination, hyperactivity, irritability, restlessness. 17 6 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders Hypoxia 32 11 Cough 30 0 Dyspnea Dyspnea includes acute respiratory failure, dyspnea, orthopnea, respiratory distress. 19 3 Pleural effusion 13 2 Renal and Urinary Disorders Renal insufficiency 12 5 Vascular Disorders Hypotension 57 15 Hypertension 15 6 Thrombosis Thrombosis includes deep vein thrombosis, embolism, embolism venous, pulmonary embolism, splenic infarction, splenic vein thrombosis, subclavian vein thrombosis, thrombosis, thrombosis in device. 10 1 Other clinically important adverse reactions that occurred in less than 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA include the following: Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Coagulopathy (2%) Cardiac disorders: Cardiac failure (6%), cardiac arrest (4%) Immune system disorders: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (HLH/MAS) (1%), hypersensitivity (1%) Infections and infestations disorders: Fungal infections (5%) Nervous system disorders: Ataxia (6%), seizure (4%), dyscalculia (2%), myoclonus (2%) Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Pulmonary edema (9%) Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Rash (9%) Vascular disorders: Capillary leak syndrome (3%) Laboratory abnormalities: Table 6.
Grade
3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory LBCL in Study 2 Baseline lab values were assessed prior to lymphodepleting chemotherapy. (N = 108)
Laboratory Abnormality Grades
3 or 4 (%) Lymphocyte decrease 96 Leukocyte decrease 96 Neutrophil decrease 92 Hemoglobin decrease 60 Platelet decrease 56 Phosphate decrease 52 Sodium decrease 19 Albumin decrease 19 Direct bilirubin increased 14 Uric acid increased 13 Potassium decrease 11 The safety and efficacy of YESCARTA was evaluated in two subsequent cohorts of LBCL patients. The first subsequent, open label, safety management cohort in Study 2 evaluated the safety and efficacy of YESCARTA with the use of tocilizumab and/or corticosteroid and prophylactic levetiracetam (750 mg PO or IV twice daily) for Grade 1 CRS or neurologic events (see Tables 1 and 2 ). A total of 46 patients with relapsed or refractory LBCL were enrolled and 41 patients were treated with YESCARTA. Of the remaining 5 patients who were not treated, 2 patients died prior to receiving YESCARTA and 3 patients were ineligible due to disease progression. Twenty-eight patients (68%) treated with YESCARTA received bridging therapy between leukapheresis and lymphodepleting chemotherapy. Thirty-two patients (78%) treated with YESCARTA received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroid for CRS and/or neurologic events. Fifteen of 36 with Grade 1 CRS and 21 of 24 patients with Grade 2 CRS received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids. Among patients who received treatment for Grade 1 or Grade 2 CRS, most patients (13 of 15 and 19 of 21 patients, respectively) received both tocilizumab and corticosteroids. Most patients received 1 or 2 doses of each drug. Ten of 27 patients with Grade 1 and 7 of 15 patients with Grade 2 neurologic events received corticosteroids alone or in combination with tocilizumab. The second subsequent, open label, safety management cohort in Study 2 evaluated the safety and efficacy of YESCARTA with the use of prophylactic corticosteroids (oral dexamethasone 10 mg once daily for 3 days, starting prior to YESCARTA infusion on Day 0) and prophylactic levetiracetam (750 mg PO or IV) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 and 5.2) ] .
Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Study 4 The safety of YESCARTA was evaluated in a single-arm, single-center, open-label study which included 13 patients with relapsed or refractory PCNSL. Patients with a history or presence of non-malignant CNS disorders or autoimmune disease requiring systemic immunosuppression were ineligible. All patients received lymphodepleting chemotherapy prior to YESCARTA infusion. Four of 13 (31%) patients were receiving corticosteroids at the time of YESCARTA infusion and 12/13 (92%) received a corticosteroid after YESCARTA infusion. Twelve patients (92%) received prophylactic anticonvulsants. The median age was 64 years (range 56 to 68 years), 46% were female, 77% were white, and 15% were Asian.
Table
7 summarizes non-laboratory adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA.
Table
7 Adverse Reactions Observed in ≥10% Patients with Relapsed or Refractory PCNSL in Study 4 (N = 13)
Adverse Reactions All
Grades n (%)
Grade
3 or 4 n (%)
Cardiac Disorders
Sinus tachycardia 12 (92) 0 (0)
Arrhythmia
Represents a composite of multiple, related preferred terms. 2 (15) 0 (0)
Eye Disorders
Visual impairment 2 (15) 0 (0)
Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea
7 (54) 0 (0)
Vomiting
7 (54) 0 (0)
Nausea
5 (38) 1 (8)
Constipation
5 (38) 0 (0) Dry mouth 3 (23) 0 (0)
General
Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Pyrexia 11 (85) 1 (8)
Chills
7 (54) 0 (0)
Fatigue
7 (54) 0 (0) Gait disturbance 4 (31) 1 (8)
Edema
3 (23) 0 (0)
Immune System Disorders Cytokine Release
Syndrome 11 (85) 0 (0)
Investigations
Weight decreased 4 (31) 0 (0) Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Musculoskeletal pain Musculoskeletal pain also includes Arthralgia. 7 (54) 0 (0) Muscular weakness 5 (38) 1 (8)
Nervous System Disorders Headache
11 (85) 1 (8)
Encephalopathy
Encephalopathy includes Amnesia, Confusional state, Disturbance in attention, Dysarthria, Lethargy, Somnolence. 9 (69) 2 (15)
Dizziness
5 (38) 0 (0)
Tremor
4 (31) 1 (8)
Hemiparesis
3 (23) 0 (0)
Seizure
2 (15) 2 (15)
Hypersomnia
2 (15) 0 (0)
Psychiatric Disorders Insomnia
4 (31) 0 (0)
Delirium
Delirium includes Agitation, Irritability. 3 (23) 0 (0) Affective disorder Affective disorder incudes Anxiety, Depression. 2 (15) 0 (0) Renal and Urinary Disorders Acute kidney injury 2 (15) 0 (0) Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders Hypoxia 7 (54) 1 (8)
Cough
6 (46) 0 (0)
Dyspnea
4 (31) 0 (0) Nasal congestion 3 (23) 0 (0) Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Rash maculo-papular 7 (54) 0 (0)
Vascular Disorders Hypotension
8 (62) 3 (23)
Thrombosis
Thrombosis includes Deep vein thrombosis, Embolism. 5 (38) 1 (8) Other clinically important adverse reactions occurred in one patient who had Grade 4 meningitis and ICANS. Relapsed or Refractory Follicular Lymphoma Study 3 The safety of YESCARTA was evaluated in Study 3, a study that included 146 patients with relapsed or refractory iNHL (124 patients with FL and 22 with marginal zone lymphoma) who received CD19-positive CAR T cells [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . Patients with a history of CNS disorders or autoimmune disease requiring systemic immunosuppression were ineligible. The median age was 61 years (range: 34 to 79 years), 43% were female, 93% were white, 3% were black, and 1% were Asian. The most common non-laboratory adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) included fever, CRS, hypotension, encephalopathy, fatigue, headache, infections with pathogen unspecified, tachycardia, febrile neutropenia, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, tremor, chills, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, cough, vomiting, hypoxia, arrhythmia, and dizziness. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 48% of patients. Serious adverse reactions in > 2% of patients included febrile neutropenia, encephalopathy, fever, CRS, infections with pathogen unspecified, pneumonia, hypoxia, and hypotension. The most common (≥ 10%)
Grade
3 or higher reactions included febrile neutropenia, encephalopathy, and infections with pathogen unspecified. Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1% of patients and included CRS and fungal infection. Fifty-one percent (75/146) of patients received tocilizumab after infusion of YESCARTA.
Table
8 summarizes the adverse reactions, excluding laboratory terms, that occurred in at least 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA and Table 9 describes Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities that developed or worsened in at least 10% of patients.
Table
8.
Adverse
Reactions in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory FL in Study 3 (N = 146)
Adverse Reaction Any
Grade (%)
Grade
3 or Higher (%) Blood and lymphatic system disorders Febrile neutropenia Represents a composite of multiple, related preferred terms. 41 41 Cardiac Disorders Tachycardia 44 1 Arrhythmia 21 2 Gastrointestinal Disorders Nausea 40 0 Diarrhea Diarrhea includes diarrhea, colitis, enteritis. 29 1 Constipation 28 0 Vomiting 24 1 Abdominal pain 16 0 General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Fever 85 8 Fatigue 49 1 Chills 29 0 Edema 13 1 Immune System Disorders Cytokine release syndrome 84 8 Immunoglobulins decreased 18 1 Infections and Infestations Infections with pathogen unspecified 45 14 Pneumonia 13 8 Fungal infections 12 2 Viral Infections 13 2 Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Decreased appetite 26 1 Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Musculoskeletal pain Musculoskeletal pain includes musculoskeletal pain, arthralgia, back pain, bone pain, flank pain, groin pain, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, osteoarthritis, pain in extremity. 40 1 Motor dysfunction Motor dysfunction includes motor dysfunction, muscle rigidity, muscle spasms, muscle strain, muscular weakness. 18 2 Nervous System Disorders Encephalopathy Encephalopathy includes agraphia, amnesia, aphonia, apraxia, CAR T-cell-related encephalopathy syndrome, cognitive disorder, disturbance in attention, dysarthria, dysgraphia, dyskinesia, encephalopathy, lethargy, loss of consciousness, memory impairment, somnolence, speech disorder, confusional state, mental status changes, immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity, neurotoxicity, toxic encephalopathy. 49 16 Headache 45 1 Tremor 31 1 Dizziness 20 0 Aphasia 14 4 Neuropathy peripheral 12 0 Ataxia Ataxia includes ataxia, balance disorder, gait disturbance, vestibular disorder. 10 0 Psychiatric Disorders Delirium Delirium includes agitation, delirium, hallucination, restlessness. 16 5 Insomnia 16 0 Affective disorder Affective disorder includes anxiety, depression, impulsive behavior, mania, panic attack. 10 1 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders Cough 25 0 Hypoxia 23 8 Dyspnea 12 1 Nasal congestion 10 0 Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Rash 19 3 Vascular Disorders Hypotension 51 4 Hypertension 13 6 Thrombosis Thrombosis includes deep vein thrombosis, embolism, peripheral ischemia, pulmonary embolism, thrombosis in device, vascular occlusion, jugular vein thrombosis. 12 4 Other clinically important adverse reactions that occurred in less than 10% of patients treated with YESCARTA include the following: Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Coagulopathy (6%) Cardiac disorders: Cardiac failure (2%) Eye disorders: Visual impairment (5%), blindness (1%) Gastrointestinal disorders: Dysphagia (6%) General disorders and administration site conditions: Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (1%) Infections and infestations: Bacterial infections (8%), sepsis (2%), herpesvirus infection (4%) Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Muscle injury (1%) Nervous system disorders: Seizure (2%), hemiparesis (2%), ischemic stroke (1%) Renal and urinary disorders: Renal insufficiency (8%) Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Respiratory failure (1%) Vascular disorders: Hemorrhage (8%) Laboratory abnormalities: Table 9.
Grade
3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory FL in Study 3 Baseline lab values were assessed prior to lymphodepleting chemotherapy. (N = 146)
Laboratory Abnormality Grades
3 or 4 (%) Lymphocyte decrease 96 Leukocyte decrease 94 Neutrophil decrease 92 Platelet decrease 35 Hemoglobin decrease 32 Phosphate decrease 25 Sodium decrease 10 Glucose increase 10 Calcium decrease 10
6.2 Postmarketing Experience Because adverse events to marketed products are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to product exposure. The following adverse event has been identified during postmarketing use of YESCARTA.
Nervous System
Disorders: Spinal cord edema, myelitis, quadriplegia, dysphagia, and status epilepticus.
Immune System
Disorders: Infusion related reactions Neoplasms: T cell malignancies
FDA Boxed Warning
WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES and SECONDARY HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA. Do not administer YESCARTA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids [see Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Neurologic toxicities, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA, including concurrently with CRS or after CRS resolution. Monitor for neurologic toxicities after treatment with YESCARTA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed [see Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including YESCARTA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES and SECONDARY HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning .
Cytokine Release
Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA. Do not administer YESCARTA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 5.1 ). Neurologic toxicities, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA, including concurrently with CRS or after CRS resolution. Monitor for neurologic toxicities after treatment with YESCARTA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids, as needed ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 5.2 ). T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including YESCARTA ( 5.7 ).
Warnings
AND PRECAUTIONS Hypersensitivity Reactions: Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions during infusion. ( 5.3 )
Serious
Infections: Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection; treat appropriately. ( 5.4 )
Prolonged
Cytopenias: Patients may exhibit Grade 3 or higher cytopenias for several weeks following YESCARTA infusion. Monitor complete blood counts. ( 5.5 ) Hypogammaglobulinemia: Monitor and provide replacement therapy. ( 5.6 )
Secondary
Malignancies: T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including YESCARTA ( 5.7 ). In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs after treatment with YESCARTA, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483). ( 5.7 )
5.1 Cytokine Release Syndrome Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with YESCARTA. CRS occurred in 90% (379/422) of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) receiving YESCARTA, including ≥ Grade 3 (Lee grading system 1 ) CRS in 9%. CRS occurred in 93% (256/276) of patients with large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL), including ≥ Grade 3 CRS in 9% <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6) ]</span> . Among patients with LBCL who died after receiving YESCARTA, four had ongoing CRS events at the time of death. For patients with LBCL in Study 2, the median time to onset of CRS was 2 days following infusion (range: 1 to 12 days) and the median duration of CRS was 7 days (range: 2 to 58 days). For patients with LBCL in Study 1, the median time to onset of CRS was 3 days following infusion (range: 1 to 10 days) and the median duration was 7 days (range: 2 to 43 days). CRS occurred in 84% (123/146) of patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL) in Study 3, including ≥ Grade 3 CRS in 8% <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6) ]</span> . Among patients with iNHL who died after receiving YESCARTA, one patient had an ongoing CRS event at the time of death. The median time to onset of CRS was 4 days (range: 1 to 20 days) and the median duration was 6 days (range: 1 to 27 days) for patients with iNHL. Key manifestations of CRS (≥ 10%) in all patients combined included fever (85%), hypotension (40%), tachycardia (32%), chills (22%), hypoxia (20%), headache (15%), and fatigue (12%). Serious events that may be associated with CRS include cardiac arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia), renal insufficiency, cardiac failure, respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, capillary leak syndrome, multi-organ failure, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (HLH/MAS) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6) ]</span>. The impact of tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids on the incidence and severity of CRS was assessed in two subsequent cohorts of LBCL patients in Study 2. Among patients who received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids for ongoing Grade 1 events (see Table 1 ) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Trials Experience (6.1) ]</span> , CRS occurred in 93% (38/41), including 2% (1/41) with Grade 3 CRS; no patients experienced a Grade 4 or 5 event. The median time to onset of CRS was 2 days (range: 1 to 8 days) and the median duration of CRS was 7 days (range: 2 to 16 days). Prophylactic treatment with corticosteroids was administered to a cohort of 39 patients for 3 days beginning on the day of infusion of YESCARTA <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Trials Experience (6.1) ]</span> . Thirty-one of the 39 patients (79%) developed CRS at which point the patients were managed with tocilizumab and/or therapeutic doses of corticosteroids with no patients developing Grade 3 or higher CRS. The median time to onset of CRS was 5 days (range: 1 to 15 days) and the median duration of CRS was 4 days (range: 1 to 10 days). Although there is no known mechanistic explanation, consider the risk and benefits of prophylactic corticosteroids in the context of pre-existing comorbidities for the individual patient and the potential for the risk of Grade 4 and prolonged neurologic toxicities [See Neurologic Toxicities (5.2) ] . Confirm that 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of YESCARTA. Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following infusion for signs and symptoms of CRS. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for 2 weeks after infusion. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Patient Counseling Information (17) ]</span> . At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab, or tocilizumab and corticosteroids as indicated <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]</span> .
5.2 Neurologic Toxicities Neurologic toxicities (including ICANS) that were fatal or life-threatening occurred following treatment with YESCARTA. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 78% (330/422) of patients with NHL (excluding central nervous system lymphoma) receiving YESCARTA, including ≥ Grade 3 cases in 25% in Study 1, Study 2, and Study 3. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 87% (94/108) of patients with LBCL in Study 2, including ≥ Grade 3 cases in 31% and in 74% (124/168) of patients in Study 1 including ≥ Grade 3 cases in 25%. The median time to onset was 4 days (range: 1 to 43 days) and the median duration was 17 days in patients with LBCL in Study 2. The median time to onset for neurologic toxicity was 5 days (range:1 to 133 days) and median duration was 15 days in patients with LBCL in Study 1. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 77% (112/146) of patients with iNHL, including ≥ Grade 3 in 21%. The median time to onset was 6 days (range: 1 to 79 days) and the median duration was 16 days. Ninety-eight percent of all neurologic toxicities in patients with LBCL and 99% of all neurologic toxicities in patients with iNHL occurred within the first 8 weeks of YESCARTA infusion. Neurologic toxicities occurred within the first 7 days of YESCARTA infusion in 87% of affected patients with LBCL and 74% of affected patients with iNHL. The most common neurologic toxicities (≥ 10%) in all patients combined included encephalopathy (50%), headache (43%), tremor (29%), dizziness (21%), aphasia (17%), delirium (15%), and insomnia (10%). Prolonged encephalopathy lasting up to 173 days was noted. Serious events including aphasia, leukoencephalopathy, dysarthria, lethargy, and seizures occurred with YESCARTA. Fatal and serious cases of cerebral edema and encephalopathy, including late-onset encephalopathy, have occurred in patients treated with YESCARTA. The impact of tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids on the incidence and severity of neurologic toxicities was assessed in two subsequent cohorts of LBCL patients in Study 2. Among patients who received corticosteroids at the onset of Grade 1 toxicities (see Table 2 ), neurologic toxicities occurred in 78% (32/41) and 20% (8/41) had Grade 3 neurologic toxicities; no patients experienced a Grade 4 or 5 event. The median time to onset of neurologic toxicities was 6 days (range: 1 to 93 days) with a median duration of 8 days (range: 1 to 144 days). Prophylactic treatment with corticosteroids was administered to a cohort of 39 patients for 3 days beginning on the day of infusion of YESCARTA <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Trials Experience (6.1) ]</span> . Of these 39 patients, 85% (33/39) developed neurologic toxicities; 8% (3/39) developed Grade 3 and 5% (2/39) developed Grade 4 neurologic toxicities. The median time to onset of neurological toxicities was 6 days (range: 1 to 274 days) with a median duration of 12 days (range: 1 to 107 days). Prophylactic corticosteroids for management of CRS and neurologic toxicities may result in higher grade of neurologic toxicities or prolongation of neurologic toxicities, delay the onset and decrease the duration of CRS [See Cytokine Release Syndrome (5.1) ] . Neurologic toxicities occurred in 85% (11/13) of patients with relapsed or refractory primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) in Study 4. Thirty-one percent (4/13) of patients had Grade 3 neurologic toxicities. The median time to onset of first neurologic toxicity was 3 days (range: 1 to 9 days) and the median time to onset of first Grade ≥ 3 neurologic toxicity was 9.5 days (range: 5 to 158 days). The median duration of neurologic toxicities was 59 days (range: 52 to 87 days) while 45% (5/11) of patients had ongoing neurological toxicities at the time of study withdrawal, death, or data cut off. The most common neurologic toxicities (≥ 10%) in patients with PCNSL included confusional state (38%), headache (31%), somnolence (31%), disturbance in attention (23%), lethargy (23%), tremor (23%), gait disturbance (15%), hypersomnia (15%), insomnia (15%), and seizures (15%). Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following infusion for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicities. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities for 2 weeks after infusion and treat promptly <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]</span> . Advise patients to avoid driving for at least 2 weeks following infusion.
5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions Allergic reactions may occur with the infusion of YESCARTA. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or residual gentamicin in YESCARTA.
5.4 Serious Infections Severe or life-threatening infections occurred in patients after YESCARTA infusion. Infections (all grades) occurred in 45% of patients with NHL.
Grade
3 or higher infections occurred in 17% of patients, including Grade 3 or higher infections with an unspecified pathogen in 12%, bacterial infections in 5%, viral infections in 3%, and fungal infections in 1%. YESCARTA should not be administered to patients with clinically significant active systemic infections. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after YESCARTA infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to local guidelines. Febrile neutropenia was observed in 36% of patients with NHL after YESCARTA infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated. In immunosuppressed patients, including those who have received YESCARTA, life-threatening and fatal opportunistic infections including disseminated fungal infections (e.g., candida sepsis and aspergillus infections) and viral reactivation (e.g., human herpes virus-6 [HHV-6] encephalitis and JC virus progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy [PML]) have been reported. The possibility of HHV-6 encephalitis and PML should be considered in immunosuppressed patients with neurologic events and appropriate diagnostic evaluations should be performed. Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, has occurred in patients treated with drugs directed against B cells, including YESCARTA. Perform screening for HBV, HCV, and HIV and management in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing.
5.5 Prolonged Cytopenias Patients may exhibit cytopenias for several weeks following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and YESCARTA infusion.
Grade
3 or higher cytopenias not resolved by Day 30 following YESCARTA infusion occurred in 39% of all patients with NHL and included neutropenia (33%), thrombocytopenia (13%), and anemia (8%). Monitor blood counts after YESCARTA infusion.