TA-TMA is a serious complication that happens when the inner lining of blood vessels is damaged by things such as transplant treatments, infections, medicines (immunosuppressants), or transplant-related problems such as graft versus host disease or other complications.
This damage triggers the lectin pathway of the complement system (a part of your immune system), which plays a major role in this disease.
TA-TMA can happen after both self-donor (autologous) and donor (allogeneic) stem cell transplants, but it’s more common after allogeneic transplants. Around 30,000 allogeneic transplants are done each year in the U.S. and Europe, and up to 56% of patients may develop TA-TMA. The damage caused by TA-TMA can lead to low platelet counts, kidney problems, and even organ failure, with the death rate exceeding 90% in severe cases. Survivors often face long-term kidney issues, sometimes requiring lifelong dialysis.
Why Was It Approved?
The FDA’s approval of Yartemlea was based on clinical studies that showed that it was safe and effective in treating high-risk TA-TMA, significantly improving patient outcomes and survival, especially for those who haven’t responded to other treatments.
What Do I Need to Know?
Yartemlea is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it goes directly into a vein. Most people get it once a week, but if your condition doesn’t improve, your health care provider may increase your dose to twice a week. The dose depends on your body weight, and each infusion takes about 30 minutes. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can and then go back to your usual schedule. This medicine must be prepared and given by trained staff. It should not be mixed with other medicines in the same IV line. There are no known conditions that can prevent you from taking Yartemlea. But serious infections, including viral illnesses, pneumonia, fungal infections, blood infections (sepsis), stomach infections, lung infections, and urinary tract infections, can happen during treatment. Your health care provider will watch for signs of infection and treat them quickly if needed.
