Pharmaceutical Information: Details on Polivy's applications, recommended dosage, potential side effects, and associated prices
In the realm of cancer treatments, Polivy has emerged as a significant player in the fight against certain types of lymphoma. This CD79b antibody-drug conjugate, approved in 2019, is primarily used to treat untreated moderate to high risk diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, untreated moderate to high risk high-grade B-cell lymphoma, and relapsed or refractory DLBCL that is NOS after at least two past treatments.
The drug, marketed as polatuzumab vedotin-piiq, is administered as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional at a clinic or infusion center. The dosage is 1.8 mg per kilogram of body weight, given as an infusion every 21 days for up to six treatment cycles. Polivy comes in two strengths: 30 mg and 140 mg per vial.
However, it's important to note that Polivy is not available in a generic or biosimilar form as of mid-2025. The absence of biosimilar products listed or under regulatory approval for Polivy, along with the lack of related patent challenges or biosimilar development directly associated with Polivy, indicates that no approved biosimilars are currently available for the drug.
While the search results indicate ongoing clinical trials involving Polivy in combination therapies, there are no reported biosimilar candidates for the drug. Biosimilar development typically follows patent expirations and further market maturation, and, as of now, patent data show limited filings or expirations for Polivy.
In contrast, multiple biosimilars exist or are in development for other biologics such as ustekinumab, vedolizumab, and ocrelizumab. However, no biosimilars for polatuzumab vedotin-piiq itself have been reported.
It's also worth mentioning that Polivy may have potential impacts on fertility, but the exact effects are not yet fully understood. Certain medications can interact with Polivy, increasing or decreasing the activity of CYP3A enzymes, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or decreasing the drug's effectiveness.
If you are sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, it's crucial to discuss your birth control needs with your doctor. If you're able to become pregnant, you should use an effective form of birth control during Polivy treatment and for at least 3 months after your last dose. If your sexual partner can become pregnant, you should use birth control (such as condoms) while receiving Polivy and for at least 5 months after your last dose.
It's important to remember that Polivy is not safe to use during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, talk with your doctor about alternative medications.
Lastly, it's essential to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions with Polivy.
Polivy is a brand-name IV infusion drug for large B-cell lymphoma, requiring a prescription and not classified as a controlled substance. Breastfeeding is not recommended while receiving Polivy and for at least 2 months after your last dose.
As we continue to make strides in cancer treatments, the development of biosimilars for Polivy is something to watch for in the future. Until then, it's crucial to understand the drug's implications and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
- Polivy, a CD79b antibody-drug conjugate, is significantly used in the treatment of certain types of lymphoma, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and high-grade B-cell lymphoma.
- The drug, marketed as polatuzumab vedotin-piiq, is primarily given as an infusion every 21 days at a healthcare clinic or infusion center.
- As of mid-2025, no approved biosimilars are available for Polivy, with ongoing clinical trials exploring its use in combination therapies but no reported biosimilar candidates.
- Certain medications can interact with Polivy, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or decreasing the drug's effectiveness, making it crucial to discuss birth control needs and potential interactions with a doctor.
- Women should use an effective form of birth control during Polivy treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose, as the drug is not safe to use during pregnancy and can harm the fetus.
