Generic Name: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin
Drug Class: Immunotherapy Medications
Company: Merck/Organon Teknika
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: No
Drug Indication
TICE is BCG bacteria approved to treat early-stage bladder (urothelial) cancer and prevent recurrence.
General Info
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is a weakened bacterium similar to the one that causes tuberculosis; it is used as a tuberculosis vaccine in some countries. When placed inside the bladder (known as intravesical therapy), it attaches to the lining and stimulate an immune response against cancer, but experts do not know exactly how it works.
Several studies have shown that BCG slows disease progression and helps prevent recurrence of bladder cancer.
Dosage
Dosing Info: TICE is a solution inserted into the bladder with a catheter. It is left in place for two hours and then expelled in the urine. It is sometimes used with interferon.
Side Effects
Common side effects include bladder irritation, painful urination and flu-like symptoms. Because it contains live bacteria, there is a risk of transmission to others and a possibility that BCG could spread outside the bladder and cause a serious infection.
For More Info: https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/t/tice_bcg/ticebcg_pi.pdf
Co-Pay Program Info: https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/t/tice_bcg/ticebcg_pi.pdf
Patient Assistance Program Info: https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/t/tice_bcg/ticebcg_pi.pdf
Last Reviewed: September 19, 2018
