Padcev: Uses, How It Works, and Common Side Effects

Padcev is used to treat urothelial cancer, the most common type of bladder cancer, that is locally advanced or has spread. It is either used alone or in combination with pembrolizumab, also known as Keytruda.

Padcev was first approved by the FDA in 2019.

This medication is an antibody-drug conjugate. It contains an antibody that targets cancer cells, and microtubule-disrupting agent called MMAE. It works by attaching to cancer cells and releasing MMAE into these cells, which causes them to stop dividing and die.

Padcev is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare provider on certain days during each chemotherapy cycle. Each infusion takes approximately 30 minutes.

Common side effects of Padcev include high blood sugar, laboratory changes (such as liver and kidney tests), low blood cell counts, rash, fatigue, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, hair loss, low appetite and weight loss, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, itching, dry eyes or skin, change in taste, and stomach pain.

This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider.