Outpatient BiTE Therapy Shows Promise in Oncology
Table of Contents
By Amelia Hernandez | AUSTIN – 2025/06/15 01:28:35
A presentation by Emilie Aschenbrenner, pharmd, BCOP, and Megan May, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, FAPO, will feature an abstract entitled “Real-World Data on Expanding Step-Up Dosing Administration of Bispecific T-Cell Engagers in the outpatient Setting“ at the 2025 Oncology Pharmacists connect (OPC) meeting in AUSTIN, Texas, from June 19 to 20.
The abstract, initially presented at the 2025 Pacific Coast Reproductive Society Annual Meeting in INDIAN WELLS, California, showcases a practical assessment of outpatient step-up dosing (SUD) procedures for bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs).The studyS authors investigated the safety, practicality, and management of toxicities related to administering both SUD and target dosages in outpatient environments, providing institutional recommendations to improve patient care and decrease the need for hospitalization.
Outpatient BiTE Step-Up Dosing: A New Frontier
Bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) are emerging as a powerful tool in cancer treatment, especially for hematologic malignancies and, increasingly, solid tumors. Traditionally, BiTEs have been administered in inpatient settings due to concerns about cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and other acute toxicities. Step-up dosing (SUD) regimens have been developed to reduce thes risks. The study by Aschenbrenner and May explores the potential of expanding these SUD regimens to outpatient (OP) settings, aiming to reduce hospitalization and associated costs.
Our collective guidelines emphasize OP administration and management for appropriately selected patients, enabling more efficient use of health care resources while ensuring patient safety.
Key Objectives and Methods
The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the safety and feasibility of administering SUD for BiTEs in the outpatient setting for real-world patients. The researchers conducted a retrospective study using electronic medical records from Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin and baptist Health Lexington. Thay collected data on patient demographics, dosing schedules, the incidence and grade of CRS, the need for subsequent hospitalization, and overall treatment outcomes. Safety assessments were based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events and the American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy consensus criteria.
Expected Outcomes and Implications
The study’s results will include data on toxicity management in the outpatient setting, such as rates and grades of CRS and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome, as well as deferred admissions. The researchers also plan to present an algorithm for appropriately selecting patients for outpatient administration and a specific outpatient SUD treatment protocol.
The authors conclude that their collective guidelines emphasize outpatient administration and management for appropriately selected patients, enabling more efficient use of health care resources while ensuring patient safety. The findings from this study could pave the way for broader adoption of outpatient BiTE therapy, reducing the burden on hospitals and improving the patient experience.
About the 2025 OPC Meeting
The 2025 OPC meeting offers attendees the chance to present clinical research and practise management insights, as well as explore the latest advancements in oncology pharmacy during poster sessions and networking events. These activities encourage innovation, collaboration, and professional development within the oncology pharmacy field. Participants can share their work, exchange ideas, and network with leaders in the industry.
Prior to the start of OPC on June 19, attendees are invited to participate in the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) BCOP Program in person on June 18. HOPA has selected 4.0 CE hours from BCOP Updates 2024 and the Annual Conference 2025,featuring topics such as acute leukemia,cellular therapy for solid tumors,and the pharmacist’s role in serious illness conversations. More information is available hear.
