What is Kepivance®?

Kepivance® is a medication that stimulates cell growth in the mucus membranes lining the mouth and gut. A doctor may prescribe this medication as a preventative to protect these sensitive mucosa when a patient is preparing to undergo chemotherapy, particularly for bone cancers. Normally, a painful condition called oral mucositis is a potential risk of chemotherapy, caused by damage to the mucus membranes. By taking this medication, a patient can avoid much of this damage and will be more comfortable during treatment.

A nurse or doctor will give the Kepivance® intravenously before and after chemotherapy. The medication is usually given three days before and again three days after chemotherapy infusions. Once the medication is in the body, it will stimulate production of more cells on the surface of the mucus membranes. When the patient takes chemotherapy and the chemotherapy starts to damage cells on the surface of the mucus membranes, the thickened layer of surface cells will protect the underlying tissue. This will prevent painful inflammation and ulceration, where the underlying tissue is exposed and becomes irritated.

Patients on Kepivance® can experience potentially serious side effects like fevers and difficulty breathing. Some irritation may also be noticed in the mucus membranes. If patients notice extreme pain, redness, and other issues in their mouths, they should contact a doctor for evaluation and treatment. A bad reaction to the medication may mean a patient cannot use it again.

Preventing irritation to the oral mucosa has a number of benefits for patients. In the first place, they will be more comfortable during chemotherapy for cancer, as their mouths and intestines will not be inflamed and ulcerated, or will experience much more mild irritation. The chance of infections in the mouth and gut will also be reduced by keeping the mucus membranes intact. Patients may also be able to eat and drink more comfortably.

Before a doctor will prescribe and administer Kepivance®, a patient evaluation is performed. Patients can expect questions about any allergies, history of drug reactions, and events in their medical history beyond the cancer they are in treatment for. Any medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs, should be discussed during this interview. If a doctor feels a bad drug interaction is a risk, a patient may need to temporarily stop taking a medication. The safety of Kepivance® in pregnancy is not known. Pregnant patients should discuss the situation with their oncologists and obstetricians, as there may be other concerns with cancer treatment and pregnancy.