denileukin diftitox

Use

Denileukin diftitox, recombinant, Ontak, is an example of adrug that acts like a Trojan horse. One part of the molecule isinvolved in recognition and binds selectively with the diseasedcell, and a highly toxic second part of the molecule effectsa kill. Denileukin diftitox is a fusion protein expressedby a recombinant strain of E. coli. The diphtheriatoxin inhibits cellular protein synthesis and the cells die.Malignant cells in certain leukemias and lymphomas, includingcutaneous T-cell lymphoma, express the high-affinityIL-2 receptor on their cell surfaces. It is these cells thatdenileukin diftitox targets.Denileukin diftitox is indicated for the treatment of persistentor recurrent cutaneous T-cell lymphoma whose malignantcells express the CD25 component of the IL-2 receptor.Denileukin diftitox is supplied as a frozen solution inwater for injection. It should be stored at 10°C or colder.It is suggested that the vials be thawed in a refrigerator at2°C to 8°C for less than 24 hours or at room temperature for1 to 2 hours. Prepared solutions should be used within6 hours. The drug is administered by IV infusion from a bagor through a syringe pump.