Produte
Talimogenlaherparepvec is commercially available as a suspension for injection (Imlygic). It was approved in the United States in 2015 and in the EU and Switzerland in 2016.
Structure and properties
Talimogenlaherparepvec is attenuated herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) virus that has been genetically engineered to produce human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). GM-CSF is an immunostimulatory cytokine that stimulates the immune system locally and systemically.
Effects
Talimogenlaherparepvec (ATC L01XX51) has antitumor and immunostimulatory properties. The viruses selectively infect tumor cells, proliferate within them, and produce the protein GM-CSF. Talimogenlaherparepvec leads to tumor dissolution, releasing antigens and new viruses, which together with GM-CSP further stimulate the immune system. Healthy cells, on the other hand, are not affected.
Indications
For the treatment of nonresectable melanoma with regional or distant metastases.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Injection suspension is injected directly into lesions.
Contraindications
- Immunosuppression
- Pregnancy
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Antiviral drugs such as aciclovir may reverse the effects of talimogenlaherparepvec.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, chills, fever, nausea, a flu-like illness, and pain at the injection site. The virus can also infect healthy people in case of close contact, for example, relatives or caregivers. Appropriate precautions must be considered.
