Last Updated on October 21, 2025 by mcelik

Yescarta, also known as axicabtagene ciloleucel, is a new CAR T-cell therapy. It’s for adults with certain types of lymphoma. This includes diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL). It’s for those who have tried at least two other treatments.

Yescarta is changing how we treat some lymphomas. It uses the patient’s own T cells, which are changed to fight cancer.

Key Takeaways

• CAR T-cell therapy is a groundbreaking treatment for certain types of lymphoma.
• Yescarta is used for adults with relapsed or refractory LBCL.
• It is made from the patient’s own modified T cells.
• Yescarta has shown significant promise in treating lymphoma that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
• Over 20,000 patients have been treated with Yescarta as of July 31, 2024.

Understanding Yescarta: A Revolutionary CAR T-Cell Therapy

Yescarta is a major leap in CAR T-cell therapy, bringing hope to those with certain lymphomas. It uses a patient’s T-cells to fight cancer, a form of immunotherapy.

Definition and Basic Mechanism

Yescarta, or axicabtagene ciloleucel, is a CAR T-cell therapy that targets and kills cancer cells. It starts by taking a patient’s T-cells, making them attack cancer, and then putting them back in the patient. This personalized treatment has shown great promise in trials, helping patients with hard-to-treat lymphoma.

“CAR T-cell therapies like Yescarta change how we treat cancer,” said a top oncologist. “They use the body’s immune system to get results we couldn’t before.”

Development by Kite Pharma

Yescarta was made by Kite Pharma, a California biotech leader in CAR T-cell therapy. Their work and dedication to cancer treatment led to Yescarta getting the U.S. FDA breakthrough therapy status in October 2017. This shows the therapy’s big chance to meet a major medical need in lymphoma treatment.

Kite Pharma’s work on Yescarta shows how vital it is to keep funding CAR T-cell therapy research. It could greatly improve patient results.

The Science Behind CAR T-Cell Therapy

Yescarta uses T cells to fight cancer. It’s a new way to use the body’s immune system against lymphoma.

How CAR T-Cell Therapy Works

First, T cells are taken from a patient. Then, they are changed to find and kill cancer cells. After that, they are put back into the patient.

This change lets the T cells find and destroy cancer cells. They do this by recognizing a specific antigen on the cancer cells.

Axicabtagene Ciloleucel: The Active Component

Axicabtagene ciloleucel is what makes Yescarta work. It’s a CAR T-cell product made from a patient’s T cells. It targets the CD19 antigen found on B cells, including some lymphoma cells.

By focusing on CD19, axicabtagene ciloleucel helps CAR T cells find and kill cancerous B cells. This targeted approach helps reduce cancer cells in patients with certain lymphomas.

Manufacturing Process

The making of Yescarta starts with taking T cells from a patient’s blood. These T cells are then sent to a lab for genetic changes.

After the changes, the CAR T cells are frozen and given back to the patient. This whole process is very personal and needs careful planning to work well.

Using CAR T-cell therapy, like Yescarta, is a big step forward in treating lymphoma. It gives hope to patients who haven’t found success with other treatments.

Approved Indications for Yescarta

Yescarta is approved for treating relapsed or refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma and other lymphoma types. It’s effective for several lymphoma subtypes that haven’t responded to other treatments.

Large B-Cell Lymphoma (LBCL)

Yescarta is for adults with LBCL that has come back or not responded to two or more treatments. LBCL is a fast-growing lymphoma that’s hard to treat, making Yescarta a valuable option.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)

DLBCL is a type of LBCL, and Yescarta works well for it. This aggressive lymphoma needs quick treatment, and Yescarta offers a new hope for those with it.

Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma (PMBCL)

PMBCL is another LBCL subtype that Yescarta can treat. It’s rare and affects younger adults, making Yescarta a key treatment option for those with it.

Follicular Lymphoma

Yescarta is also approved for follicular lymphoma in adults who have tried two or more treatments. Follicular lymphoma can be slow-growing but can become aggressive. Yescarta gives patients with this condition a new chance.

The benefits of Yescarta for these lymphomas include:

• Effective treatment for relapsed or refractory disease
• Improved response rates compared to other treatments
• Potential for long-term remission

We know each patient is different, and Yescarta offers a valuable option for specific lymphomas. With a targeted and innovative therapy, we aim to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

Clinical Efficacy of Yescarta

Clinical trials have shown Yescarta is effective for certain non-Hodgkin lymphoma types. Its success has led to its approval for specific uses.

Response Rates in DLBCL and PMBCL

In trials, Yescarta showed great results in DLBCL and PMBCL. 47% of patients got a complete response, and 66% had a partial response. These numbers show Yescarta’s promise as a treatment for aggressive lymphomas.

These results are impressive, given the patients’ history of multiple treatments. Yescarta’s ability to achieve such responses is a big plus in the treatment world.

Outcomes in Follicular Lymphoma

Yescarta also looks promising for follicular lymphoma. Trials suggest it can lead to significant responses in this type of lymphoma. This opens up a new treatment option for these patients.

Comparison to Standard Treatments

Yescarta often matches or beats standard treatments in effectiveness. This is true, and even more so, for DLBCL and PMBCL. Yescarta’s response rates are encouraging here.

Yescarta’s main strength is its ability to help patients who haven’t responded to other treatments. It’s a big step forward in managing certain lymphomas.

• Significant response rates observed in DLBCL and PMBCL.
• Promising outcomes in follicular lymphoma.
• Comparable or superior efficacy to standard treatments.

As we keep exploring Yescarta, its clinical success is key to its role in treating specific lymphomas.

Long-Term Outcomes and Survival Data

Yescarta has shown great success in treating certain lymphomas. It’s a CAR T-cell therapy that has improved patient outcomes a lot.

Studies from clinical trials have shown Yescarta’s lasting effects. It has given patients with large B-cell lymphoma better survival rates. More than 30% of these patients stay disease-free for five years after treatment.

Five-Year Survival Statistics

Yescarta’s five-year survival stats are impressive. Durable responses have been seen in many patients. This has led to a big improvement in overall survival.

“The long-term survival data for Yescarta is compelling, showing that this CAR T-cell therapy can offer sustained disease control for patients with poor prognoses.”

Disease-Free Survival Rates

Disease-free survival rates are key to measuring Yescarta’s success. Our data shows that patients treated with Yescarta have remarkable disease-free survival. This has greatly improved their overall outcomes.

Quality of Life Considerations

The impact of Yescarta on quality of life is also important. Patients who respond well to Yescarta often see a big improvement in their quality of life. They can stay disease-free and go back to their usual activities.

We know that every patient’s journey is different. While Yescarta has shown great long-term results, ongoing care and support are vital for the best patient well-being.

The Yescarta Treatment Process

The Yescarta treatment is a detailed, multi-step journey. It starts with careful patient screening and selection. This step is key to getting the best results for patients getting this new CAR T-cell therapy.

Patient Screening and Selection

The first step is thorough patient screening and selection. This step checks if a patient is right for Yescarta therapy. The team looks at the patient’s health, lymphoma type, and past treatments.

This screening is vital. Yescarta works best for certain lymphoma types and those who haven’t tried other treatments. Our healthcare team works with patients to see if they’re eligible and get ready for treatment.

Collection of T-Cells (Leukapheresis)

After checking if a patient is eligible, the next step is collecting T-cells. This is done through leukapheresis. The patient’s blood is drawn, and the T-cells are separated. The rest of the blood is returned to the patient. This is done on an outpatient basis and takes several hours.

The collected T-cells then go to a lab for genetic modification. They are made to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Manufacturing and Processing

The T-cells are then made into Yescarta, the CAR T-cell therapy. They are genetically engineered to target specific proteins on lymphoma cells. This makes them attack cancer cells more effectively.

• The T-cells are modified to recognize and bind to the CD19 protein, which is commonly found on the surface of B-cell lymphoma cells.
• The engineered T-cells are then expanded in number and prepared for infusion.
• This manufacturing process typically takes several weeks, during which time patients may receive bridging therapies to control their disease.

Infusion Procedure

After the Yescarta cells are made and ready, the infusion process starts. Patients are admitted to a treatment center for this. The infusion itself is quick, taking less than an hour.

After infusion, patients are watched for any side effects like cytokine release syndrome (CRS). They also get support to manage these effects.

Our team supports patients throughout the Yescarta treatment. We make sure they are informed and cared for at every step.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Profile

Yescarta brings hope to patients with certain lymphomas. But, it comes with possible side effects. It’s important for patients and doctors to know these risks.

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)

Cytokine release syndrome is a big concern with Yescarta. It happens when CAR T-cells cause inflammation. Symptoms can be mild or severe, like fever and low blood pressure.

Managing CRS means watching patients closely. Doctors use medicines like tocilizumab to help. In bad cases, patients might need to stay in the hospital.

Neurological Toxicities

Yescarta can also cause serious brain problems. These include confusion, memory loss, and even seizures. It’s not clear how this happens, but it’s thought to be related to the CAR T-cells.

• Common symptoms include confusion and disorientation.
• Severe cases may involve seizures or cerebral edema.
• Quick medical help is key to dealing with these issues.

Other Common Side Effects

Yescarta can also lead to other side effects. These include infections, low red blood cells, and low platelets. It’s important to watch for these and provide support.

1. Infections are a risk because the treatment weakens the immune system.
2. Problems with blood cells are common.
3. Transfusions and antibiotics might be needed.

Management of Adverse Events

Handling Yescarta’s side effects needs a team effort. This includes watching patients closely, providing support, and using special medicines. Teaching patients about these effects is also important.

Knowing about Yescarta’s side effects helps doctors manage risks. This can lead to better results for patients.

Real-World Studies on Yescarta

We look at real-world studies on Yescarta. They show its safety, how well it works, and if it can be given outside the hospital. These studies are key to seeing how Yescarta does in more patients and different places.

Confirming Safety and Efficacy

Real-world studies confirm Yescarta is safe and effective. They match the results from clinical trials, giving strong evidence for its use.

These studies also show Yescarta works well for patients who weren’t in the first trials. This includes those with other health issues or who have tried other treatments before. This means more people could benefit from Yescarta.

Outpatient Administration Findings

New research looks at giving Yescarta outside the hospital. This could lower costs and make patients happier by cutting down on hospital time.

• Outpatient Yescarta is safe for some patients.
• It’s important to watch patients closely and follow up for side effects.
• Helping patients understand and support them is key for outpatient success.

Patient Selection Criteria

Choosing the right patients for Yescarta is important. Key factors include:

1. How well the patient is overall and any other health issues.
2. What treatments they’ve had before and how they responded.
3. If they have someone to help them at home for outpatient care.

By picking the right patients and giving them good care, doctors can make Yescarta work best. This helps patients and keeps risks low.

Yescarta Treatment Centers in the United States

Yescarta is available at many certified treatment centers across the United States. This makes it easy for patients to get this cutting-edge CAR T-cell therapy. These centers are part of a network that ensures patients get top-notch care.

Certified Treatment Facilities

Certified treatment facilities for Yescarta meet strict requirements. They have the right equipment and staff trained to give Yescarta safely and well.

• Specialized staff trained in CAR T-cell therapy administration
• State-of-the-art facilities for handling and administering Yescarta
• Protocols in place for managing possible side effects

Requirements for Center Certification

To get certified, treatment centers go through a tough process. This includes:

1. Completing a detailed training program for staff
2. Meeting certain standards for infrastructure and equipment
3. Agreeing to strict protocols for patient care and safety
4. Going through regular audits and compliance checks

Geographical Distribution

The Yescarta treatment centers are spread out across the United States. They are in big cities and healthcare centers.

With a wide network of certified centers, we make sure patients can get Yescarta no matter where they are in the United States. This wide reach is key for making sure everyone has access to new treatments like Yescarta.

Yescarta Prescribing Information and Package Insert

It’s important for healthcare providers to know the Yescarta prescribing information. This ensures safe and effective treatment. The package insert gives detailed guidance on dosing and monitoring.

Key Information for Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers need to understand the key points in the Yescarta prescribing information. This includes knowing the indications, contraindications, and possible side effects.

Dosing Guidelines

The dosing guidelines for Yescarta are key to safe use. The recommended dose is a single infusion of 2 x 10 CAR-positive T cells per kilogram of body weight. This dose should not exceed 2 x 10 CAR-positive T cells. Healthcare providers must follow these guidelines carefully to prevent complications.

Pre-infusion: Patients should get lymphodepleting chemotherapy before Yescarta. It’s important to watch for cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurological toxicities.

Monitoring Requirements

After Yescarta is given, it’s vital to monitor for CRS, neurological toxicities, and other side effects. Healthcare providers should watch patients for at least 7 days after infusion. They should also manage any adverse events that happen.

By sticking to the prescribing information and dosing guidelines, healthcare providers can help their patients get the best results.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

Understanding Yescarta’s financial side is key. It includes treatment costs, insurance, and patient help programs. Yescarta is a cutting-edge CAR T-cell therapy. Its price can be high, so knowing the details is important for patients and their families.

Treatment Pricing

The price of Yescarta changes based on several things. These are the treatment center, what the patient needs, and where they are. It’s vital for patients to talk to their healthcare team and treatment center for a clear cost estimate. They should also ask about extra costs like hospital stays and managing side effects.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance for Yescarta varies by provider and policy. Many plans cover CAR T-cell therapies like Yescarta, but coverage can vary. Patients should reach out to their insurance to know what’s covered. This includes any costs they might have to pay, deductibles, and if they need approval first.

Patient Assistance Programs

There are programs to help with Yescarta costs. These programs can help with treatment costs, travel, and more. Patients can talk to their treatment center’s financial counselor to see if they qualify.

Navigating Financial Aspects

Handling Yescarta’s financial side needs a team effort. Patients should work with their healthcare team, financial advisors, and insurance. By being proactive and informed, patients can tackle financial challenges and focus on getting better.

Conclusion

Yescarta is a big step forward in treating lymphoma that doesn’t respond well to other treatments. It gives hope to those with certain types of lymphoma. This CAR T-cell therapy has shown great results in studies.

Yescarta is approved for large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma. It has high success rates and long-lasting results. This makes it a key treatment choice.

While Yescarta can cause side effects, doctors know how to manage them. This makes it safe for many patients. As we watch how patients do long-term, Yescarta’s role in treating lymphoma is clear.

For those dealing with lymphoma, Yescarta is a hopeful option. It comes with a strong support system and ongoing research. This helps make it a valuable part of modern treatment.

FAQ

References:

FDA. (2025, June 30). YESCARTA (axicabtagene ciloleucel) ” Cell & Gene Therapy Products. U.S. Food & Drug Administration.https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/cellular-gene-therapy-products/yescarta