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What type of drug is Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel)?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on July 3, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel) is a chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy. In CAR-T cell therapy, a patient's cells are modified genetically to include a specific protein that directs the T-cells to target and kill leukemia cells that have a specific antigen (CD19) on the surface. T-cells are a type of white blood cell in the immune system.

What is Kymriah approved to treat?

Kymriah is a genetically-modified autologous T-cell immunotherapy. The therapy is derived from a patient's own white blood cells through a process known as leukapheresis. Once the cells are modified, they are infused back into the patient to kill the cancer cells.

CAR-T cell therapy is a highly individualized and specialized treatment. You will receive your infusion in a healthcare center that may not be close to your home. You will need to stay close to a healthcare center after getting Kymriah, usually for at least 14 days, to receive special treatment if needed, and to monitor for side effects. Avoid driving for at least 2 weeks after you get Kymriah.

Related questions

Which CAR-T cell therapies are approved?

Kymriah, approved in August 2017, was the first FDA-approved cell-based gene therapy in the U.S.

CAR-T cell therapies approved by the FDA include:

This is not all the information you need to know about Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor's directions. Review the full Kymriah product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

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How is Kymriah administered?

Kymriah is administered as a suspension through a tube (intravenous catheter) into your vein, typically in your arm. This single-dose infusion usually takes less than one hour. Before you receive Kymriah, you may have chemotherapy for a few days to help prepare your body to receive the treatment.

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What to avoid when taking Gleevec?

  • Talk to your doctor about warnings, side effects, use in pregnancy and possible drug interactions with Gleevec.
  • Take your Gleevec exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use Gleevec if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
  • Take each tablet with a meal and large glass of water to help prevent stomach irritation.
  • Do not use a broken Gleevec tablet. The medicine from a broken pill can be dangerous if it gets in your mouth, eyes, or nose, or on your skin.
  • Do not use grapefruit products while taking Gleevec, unless okayed by your healthcare provider
  • Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine may affect you. Use caution when driving as Gleevec may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.
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How much does Blincyto (blinatumomab) cost?

The cost of a Blincyto (blinatumomab) vial is approximately $5,427 per 35 microgram (mcg) single-dose vial for injection. The overall cost for your therapy will also depend upon the length of treatment. Most people do not pay out-of-pocket for the full price of Blincyto. Continue reading

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