Abstract
* Olaratumab (Lartruvo) is the first new drug approved in more than 40 years for the treatment of soft tissue sarcoma. It is administered as an IV infusion in combination with doxorubicin.
* There is a risk of serious infusion-related reactions with olaratumab use. Grade 3 or 4 reactions require that the infusion be stopped immediately and not restarted. Embryo-fetal toxicity can occur if olaratumab is given to pregnant women.
* Nurses should premedicate patients with diphenhydramine and dexamethasone prior to the first dose of olaratumab to help minimize the risk of infusion reactions. Patients require close monitoring, and emergency equipment should be available.