TECARTUS® is given as a single infusion for acute lymphoblastic leukemia
TECARTUS is administered as a one-time infusion at an Authorized Treatment Center. From start to finish, the process of receiving TECARTUS consists of 5 distinct steps.
A single 30-minute infusion of your own cancer-fighting CAR T cells
Your blood is collected to remove your T cells
T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in helping your immune system fight off things like infection and cancer. TECARTUS is made from your own T cells, so the first step in treatment involves collecting your blood through an IV.
Your blood is passed through a machine to separate out your T cells. This process, called leukapheresis (loo-kah-fur-ee-sis), may take about 3–4 hours.
Your T cells are modified to become CAR T cells
Your separated T cells are sent to a laboratory where a special connector called a CAR, or chimeric antigen receptor, is added to them. This special connector improves your T cells’ ability to latch onto cancer cells and destroy them.
The process of transforming your T cells into TECARTUS CAR T cells can take 2–3 weeks. Once your cells are ready, you’ll receive 3 days of low‑dose chemotherapy. This helps prepare your body to accept your new TECARTUS cells.
TECARTUS infusion
On your scheduled treatment day, you and a caregiver will go to your Authorized Treatment Center. You’ll receive a single, up to 30-minute infusion that puts millions of your own cancer-fighting CAR T cells into your body.
Your progress is monitored
Your safety and care are top priority, and your healthcare team will monitor you daily at the Authorized Treatment Center for at least 14 days after receiving TECARTUS. The healthcare team at the Authorized Treatment Center is thoroughly trained to help manage and treat any complications that may occur.
You should plan to stay close to your Authorized Treatment Center for at least 4 weeks after receiving TECARTUS. Kite Konnect® can provide information about potential options for transportation and housing assistance.
Follow-up visits with your local oncologist
Your local oncologist will perform blood tests and examine you to track your progress and help with any side effects that may occur. If you think you are experiencing side effects, make sure to tell your healthcare team. If you miss an appointment, it’s important to reschedule as soon as possible.
