The Basics
What is Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan?
Indicated for the treatment of relapsed or refractory, low-grade or follicular B-cell non- Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL).
Brand names for Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan
Zevalin
How Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan is classified
Radiopharmaceuticals, Yttrium Radioisotopes
Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan During Pregnancy
Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan pregnancy category
Category DNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan while pregnant
Based on its radioactivity, Y-90 Zevalin may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Immunoglobulins are known to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproductive toxicology studies of Zevalin have not been conducted. Advise women of childbearing potential to use adequate contraception for a minimum of twelve months. Inform women who become pregnant while receiving Zevalin of the potential fetal risks.
Taking Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan?
Information in this record refers to the use of yttrium 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan as a therapeutic agent. No information is available on the use of yttrium 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan during breastfeeding. Because of the long half-life of yttrium 90, the manufacturer and expert opinion recommend not administering the drug in women who wish to continue breastfeeding.[1] If the drug is administered to a nursing mother, breastfeeding should be discontinued. No restrictions on holding the infant after administration of the drug are necessary.[2]
Maternal / infant drug levels
Information in this record refers to the use of yttrium 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan as a therapeutic agent. No information is available on the use of yttrium 90 ibritumomab tiuxetan during breastfeeding. Because of the long half-life of yttrium 90, the manufacturer and expert opinion recommend not administering the drug in women who wish to continue breastfeeding.[1] If the drug is administered to a nursing mother, breastfeeding should be discontinued. No restrictions on holding the infant after administration of the drug are necessary.[2]
Possible effects of Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Yttrium 90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Goldsmith SJ. Radioimmunotherapy of lymphoma: Bexxar and Zevalin. Semin Nucl Med. 2010;40:122-35. PMID: 20113680
2. Gulec SA, Siegel JA. Posttherapy radiation safety considerations in radiomicrosphere treatment with 90Y-microspheres. J Nucl Med. 2007;48:2080-6. PMID: 18006608
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
