Obinutuzumab

Obinutuzumab, sold under the brand name Gazyva among others, is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody used as a treatment for cancer and active lupus nephritis. It was originated by GlycArt Biotechnology AG and developed by Roche. Obinutuzumab is indicated in combination with chlorambucil, for the treatment of people with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia; in combination with bendamustine followed by obinutuzumab monotherapy, for the treatment of people with follicular lymphoma who relapsed after, or are refractory to, a rituximab-containing regimen; in combination with chemotherapy followed by obinutuzumab monotherapy in people achieving at least a partial remission, for the treatment of adults with previously untreated stage II bulky, III or IV follicular lymphoma; for the treatment of adults with active lupus nephritis who are receiving standard therapy. In September 2026, the indication was explanded to include the reduction of the risk of relapse in people aged two years of age and older with frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent, childhood-onset, idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who are in remission. Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder of unknown cause. In these patients, large amounts of protein leak into the urine, leading to low blood albumin levels (a type of protein in the blood) and often swelling. Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome can also lead to high cholesterol and other complications such as infections, and blood clots that can block small blood vessels. Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and usually starts between 2-7 years of age. The annual incidence is estimated to be 1 to 4 per 100,000 children and varies with age, race, and geography. The US prescription label has a boxed warning for hepatitis B virus reactivation and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (a rare and serious brain infection caused by a virus in people with a weakened immune system).