How Do Biological Response Modulators Work?

Biological response modulators are a class of medications used to treat severe chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia. They can occur naturally in the body or are artificially made in the laboratory. 

Biological response modulators such as oprelvekin stimulate the bone marrow to produce platelets, thereby preventing the depletion of platelets (thrombocytopenia). Thrombocytopenia can be a severe side effect of chemotherapy, requiring platelet transfusion at times. Biological response modulators may be given to reduce the need for platelet transfusions.

Platelets are produced from the very large bone marrow called megakaryocytes. Megakaryocytes are produced in the bone marrow by a process called thrombopoiesis, which involves the differentiation of an originator cell (progenitor cells) into promegakaryocytes and then into megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. Megakaryocytes produce protoplatelets, which then break up to form thousands of platelets.

Biological response modulators stimulate thrombopoiesis and maturation by accelerating the accumulation of progenitor cells. Subsequently, they increase platelet production and replenish the platelet count in the blood.

A biological response modulator is indicated for severe chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia.

The most common side effects of biological response modulator agents include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Edema
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness 
• Fever
• Insomnia
• Cough
• Rash
• Palpitations
• Atrial fibrillation
• Mucositis (tissue swelling in the mouth)
• Rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of biological response modulators include:

• Interleukin 11
• Neumega
• Oprelvekin