Darzalex (daratumumab) is a medicine that helps treat multiple myeloma by targeting cancer cells. Like many strong treatments, it can cause side effects, some mild, some more serious.
Understanding Darzalex side effects and how to manage them can help you stay on treatment, feel better, and avoid trips to the hospital. This guide explains the common side effects, why they happen, and simple ways to handle them — from the first dose onward.
Why Side Effects Happen
Darzalex side effects happen because the drug targets CD38, a protein found not only on cancer cells but also on some healthy cells. This can lead to immune reactions, low blood counts, stomach issues, and fatigue.
Common Infusion-Related Reactions
One of the most common side effects of Darzalex is an infusion reaction, especially during the first dose. Around half of patients may experience cough, chills, nasal stuffiness, or throat irritation. Serious issues like trouble breathing or low blood pressure are rare but need urgent care.
How to Manage Infusion Reactions
To reduce the risk, doctors often give medications like steroids, antihistamines, and fever reducers about an hour before the infusion. Slowing down the infusion at the first sign of symptoms can also help. Emergency supplies like oxygen and epinephrine should be ready just in case.
Blood Count Changes and Infection Risk
Side effects of Darzalex also include low white blood cells (neutropenia) and platelets (thrombocytopenia), usually after a few cycles. This can raise the risk of infections like shingles.
Tips to Lower Infection Risk:
- Do a complete blood count before each dose
- Delay treatment or use medications to raise white cell levels if needed
- Use antiviral drugs (like acyclovir) and update vaccines before starting treatment
Stomach Problems
Some patients feel nauseous or have diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms are partly due to immune changes and other medications like steroids.
How to Cope:
- Eat light, bland meals on treatment days
- Drink plenty of water
- Use anti-nausea or anti-diarrhea medicine early
- Track weight and hydration, especially in older adults
Fatigue and Weakness
Tiredness is a very common side effect of Darzalex. It can last for days after each dose, especially early in treatment. It’s often caused by inflammation or anemia.
Ways to Manage Fatigue:
- Rest during the day and avoid overexertion
- Try light exercise when you can
- Treat low iron or other underlying issues
- Use pacing strategies to balance energy levels
Skin and Injection-Site Reactions
In the subcutaneous form (Darzalex Faspro), skin reactions like redness, itching, or mild swelling are more likely. These Darzalex Faspro side effects affect about 20% of patients.
How to Treat Them:
- Apply a cold pack before and after the shot
- Rotate injection sites
- Take non-drowsy allergy medicine for 1–2 days
- Use topical creams if itching doesn’t go away
Conclusion
Most Darzalex side effects can be managed with good planning and regular checkups. From preventing reactions to treating fatigue or infections, these simple steps help you stay on therapy and feel better throughout treatment.
For more tips, information, and to order, visit our Darzalex Product Page. Be prepared and confident in managing treatment side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the possible side effects of Darzalex?
Common issues include infusion reactions, fatigue, low blood counts, stomach upset, and skin problems at injection sites.
How long do Darzalex side effects last?
Mild side effects like chills or nausea often go away within a few hours. Fatigue and low blood counts may last a few days but usually improve after the first couple of cycles.
Do Darzalex Faspro side effects differ from the IV version?
Yes. The IV form has more systemic infusion reactions, while the subcutaneous version (Faspro) causes more skin-related side effects.
Can the Darzalex dosage be changed if the side effects are too strong?
Yes. Doctors may slow down the infusion, delay doses, or add supportive treatments. Reducing the dose is less common but possible if needed.
