SYLVANT 100 mg
Siltuximab
What it does
Siltuximab is a medication used to treat certain conditions related to the immune system, particularly those involving overactive immune responses.
Commonly used for: multicentric Castleman disease, certain types of lymphomas
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-15 21:18:49 · updated 2026-10-21 04:01:07
About this medicine
Siltuximab is a medication used to treat certain conditions related to the immune system, particularly those involving overactive immune responses.
What it treats
- multicentric Castleman disease
- certain types of lymphomas
How it works
Siltuximab works by targeting and blocking specific proteins in the immune system, helping to reduce inflammation and manage disease.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults with specific immune system disorders as determined by their healthcare provider.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Siltuximab
BNF-referencedSiltuximab is a human-mouse chimeric monoclonal antibody that inhibits interleukin-6 (IL-6) by binding to its receptor. This action helps in the treatment of certain malignancies and inflammatory conditions. It is primarily indicated for multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) in HIV-negative and HHV-8 negative patients.
Indications
- Multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) in HIV-negative and HHV-8 negative patients
Dosage
Children: The safety and efficacy of siltuximab in paediatric patients have not been established. Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: The recommended dosage in adults for the treatment of multicentric Castleman's disease is 11 mg/kg administered intravenously every 3 weeks. Adjustments should be made based on individual patient tolerability and toxicity assessments.
Mechanism of action
Siltuximab functions by binding to the IL-6 receptor, thereby inhibiting the binding of IL-6 to its receptor. This blockade interrupts the downstream signaling pathways that promote inflammation and tumor growth, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Siltuximab's pharmacodynamic effects are characterized by its ability to reduce IL-6 mediated signaling. IL-6 is involved in the regulation of immune responses, hematopoiesis, and inflammation. By inhibiting IL-6 signaling, siltuximab can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with diseases driven by IL-6, such as MCD and certain malignancies.
Pharmacokinetics
Following intravenous administration, siltuximab exhibits a volume of distribution consistent with that of monoclonal antibodies. Its elimination half-life is approximately 18 days, allowing for less frequent dosing regimens. The drug is primarily eliminated via proteolytic pathways and is not significantly cleared by the kidneys, making it suitable for patients with renal impairment.
Adverse effects
- gastrointestinal perforation
- severe infections
- infusion-related reactions
- dizziness
Precautions
- Monitor neutrophil and platelet count, and haemoglobin levels prior to each dose for the first 12 months and thereafter prior to every third cycle.
- Consider delaying treatment if neutrophil, platelet, or haemoglobin levels are not achieved.
- Monitor for infection during treatment.
Pregnancy
Manufacturer advises avoidance unless potential benefit outweighs risk.
Breast-feeding
Manufacturer advises avoidance due to lack of information.
Storage
Store in refrigerator (2–8°C). Consult product literature for storage conditions after preparation of the infusion.
Formulations
- Powder for solution for infusion: 100 mg vial
- Powder for solution for infusion: 400 mg vial
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.