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Imlygic
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Imlygic

Generic name:talimogene laherparepvectal-IM-oh-jeen-la-HER-pa-REP-vek ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous antineoplastics

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Aug 5, 2020.

What is Imlygic?

Imlygic is a cancer medicine that affects the actions of the body's immune system, helping the body produce an "antitumor" response.

Imlygic is a genetically modified weak form of type 1 herpes simplex virus (the virus that causes common cold sores).

Imlygic is used to treat a type of cancer called

melanoma when it is on the skin or in the lymph glands.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Accidental exposure to the virus in Imlygic may cause you to develop symptoms of herpes virus infection. However, not treating melanoma can allow the cancer to progress and spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma is difficult to treat after it progresses, and this type of cancer can be fatal. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Imlygic.

You should not be treated with Imlygic if you are allergic to talimogene laherparepvec, or if:

  • you have a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine); or

  • you are pregnant.

To make sure Imlygic is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • cold sores or genital herpes;

  • blood cancer (leukemia);

  • bone marrow cancer (myeloma);

  • HIV or AIDS; or

  • an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis.

Tell your doctor if anyone in your household is pregnant or has a weak immune system.

Talimogene laherparepvec can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use Imlygic if you are pregnant, and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. If you develop symptoms of herpes virus infection while using Imlygic, the virus could be passed to your baby during childbirth.

Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using Imlygic. Follow your doctor's instructions about how long to prevent pregnancy after your treatment ends.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using Imlygic. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How is Imlygic given?

Imlygic is injected directly into a tumor on your skin, or into a lymph node under your skin. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Imlygic is usually given every 2 weeks or until your tumor is gone. The first two injections of Imlygic are usually given 3 weeks apart.

Your care providers will use special precautions to avoid g..