Talimogene Laherparepvec: An Oncolytic Virus Therapy for Melanoma.

Objective: To review the efficacy and safety of talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) as well as its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions, handling procedures, cost considerations, and place in therapy.

Data Sources: Searches of PubMed (1966 to February 2017) and Cochrane Library (1999 to February 2017) were conducted using the terms talimogene laherparepvec, T-VEC, OncoVEX, immunotherapy, melanoma, and oncolytic virus. Additional information was determined from bibliographies, manufacturer product labeling and website, meeting abstracts, Food and Drug Administration website, and clinicaltrials.

Evaluation of empiric antibiotic de-escalation in febrile neutropenia.

Introduction: Up until 2010, the recommended duration of empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics for febrile neutropenia was until absolute neutrophil count (ANC) recovery. An updated guideline on the use of antimicrobial agents in neutropenic patients with cancer indicates that patients who have completed an appropriate treatment course of broad-spectrum antibiotics, with resolution of signs and symptoms of infection but persistent neutropenia, can be de-escalated to oral fluoroquinolone prophylaxis until ANC recovery.

Methods: The primary objective of this retrospective investigation was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of de-escalating broad-spectrum antibiotics in patients remaining neutropenic after at least 14 days of empiric broadspectrum antibiotics for febrile neutropenia compared to patients continuing broad-spectrum antibiotics until ANC recovery.

Ado-trastuzumab emtansine: a HER2-positive targeted antibody-drug conjugate.

Objective: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, adverse effects, drug-drug interactions, dosage and administration, and formulary considerations for ado-trastuzumab emtansine.

Data Sources: Sources of information were identified through a PubMed search (1966 to June 2014) using the key terms ado-trastuzumab emtansine, trastuzumab-DM1, trastuzumab-MCC-DM1, and T-DM1. Other information was obtained from clinicaltrials.

Comparison of pegfilgrastim prescribing practice to national guidelines at a university hospital outpatient oncology clinic.

Purpose: Pegfilgrastim reduces the risk of febrile neutropenia (FN) and is indicated as primary prophylaxis when the risk of FN approaches 20% in each chemotherapy cycle. There have been few reports evaluating the appropriate use of pegfilgrastim in comparison with published guidelines. We sought to determine possible over-prescribing as a way to maintain quality and reduce cost.