The basics
The cemiplimab-rwlc injection (brand name- Libtayo) is an FDA-approved treatment used for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC; skin cancer) and non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to nearby tissues and cannot be treated well with surgery or radiation therapy, or that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also used to treat basal cell carcinoma that cannot be removed by surgery
The cemiplimab-rwlc injection is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by killing cancer cells.
Let us walk you through the key findings you need to know about cemiplimab-rwlc.
How should I take Cemiplimab-rwlc or Libtayo?
Cemiplimab-rwlc injection comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected into a vein over 30 minutes by a doctor or nurse in a medical facility. or infusion center. It is usually given every 3 weeks.
Talk to your doctor about how you feel during and after your treatment. Do not stop taking treatment without talking to your doctor. You can help them by tracking your side effects in Ankr.
You can also visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website (http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm085729.htm) or the manufacturer’s website to obtain the Medication Guide.
What are the side effects of cemiplimab-rwlc?
Common side effects
- constipation
- cough
- diarrhea
- yellow eyes or skin
- severe nausea or vomiting
- dark urine
- loss of appetite
- rash
- blistering skin
- itching
- painful sores or ulcers in the mouth or nose, throat, or genital area
- swelling in your ankles
- headache
- feeling more hungry or thirsty than usual
- increased sweating
- extreme tiredness
- weight changes
- feeling cold
- deepening of voice or hoarseness
- hair loss
- irritability or changes in sexual desire
- tingling or numbness of arms or legs
- muscle pain or weakness or muscle cramps
Serious side effects
- irregular heartbeat
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- stools that are black, tarry, sticky, or have blood or mucus
- abdominal pain or tenderness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- pain or discomfort in right upper stomach area
- swollen lymph nodes
- decreased urine amount
- blood in urine
- frequent urination
- double vision, blurry vision, eye sensitivity to light, eye pain, or changes in vision
- dizziness
- fainting
- forgetfulness
- confusion
- sleepiness
- memory problems
- changes in mood or behavior
- stiff neck
- balance problems
Cemiplimab-rwlc may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Use the free Ankr platform or Ankr app to track your symptoms.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before receiving cemiplimab-rwlc injection or Libtayo
- tell your doctor about your allergies
- tell your doctor about other intakes
- tell your doctor if you have or ever had any other disease or symptom
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Use effective birth control during your treatment with cemiplimab-rwlc injection and for 4 months after your final dose.
While you are on cemiplimab-rwlc or Libtayo
- If you become pregnant while receiving cemiplimab-rwlc injection, call your doctor. Cemiplimab-rwlc injection may harm the fetus.
- tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will tell you not to breastfeed during your treatment with cemiplimab-rwlc injection and for 4 months after your final dose.
In case of an emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Brand names
- Libtayo®
Last Revised-06/08/2023 FDA updated- 05/15/2021, SG
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