What is Elias Cancer Immunotherapy (ECI®)?
Elias Cancer Immunotherapy (ECI®) is a personalized osteosarcoma (bone cancer) treatment for dogs. For this treatment, a vaccine is created from your dog’s tumor. After the vaccine is given, the dog’s body produces immune cells in response to the vaccine. These immune cells are harvested and made stronger, then re-injected to fight the osteosarcoma.
It is used off label (extra label) to treat other types of cancer in dogs. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet ECI®?
- ECI® comes in an injectable form and is given by your veterinarian.
- Injections are given subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (into the vein).
- Your dog’s tumor will first be surgically removed, then sent to the lab to create the autologous vaccine.
- Once the vaccination series is administered, your veterinarian will collect samples to send to the lab to create the unique T-cell immunotherapy.
- Your veterinarian will then administer the immunotherapy infusions and injections.
This medication should start to work soon after the injections; however, full effects will take several weeks to months to be noticeable.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
This medication is given as a series of injections and infusions by your veterinarian. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations on what to do if a dose is missed.
Are there any potential side effects?
ECI® may cause the following side effects:
- Redness at injection site
- Mild pain or swelling at injection site
- Tiredness
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing
- Allergic reactions such as rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Changes in heart rate or rhythm
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This long-acting medication will last for several weeks to months.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE ECI® in:
- Dogs with metastatic disease
- Dogs on immunosuppressive medications
- Dogs that have had limb amputation before treatment
- Any species other than dogs
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Dogs with cancers other than osteosarcoma
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with ECI®, including:
- Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy agents)
- Immunomodulating drugs or supplements
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Follow your veterinarian’s directions for lab work monitoring during treatment.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store ECI®?
Your veterinarian will store the medication according to the manufacturer’s directions.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
