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Cetuximab
This page contains brief details about the drug cetuximab, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA-approved Cetuximab to treat people with metastatic colorectal cancer and squamous cancer conditions on February 12, 2004.
Mechanism of Action of Cetuximab
Cetuximab binds to the protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR). As a result of this binding, cancer cells no longer receive the signal that the cells need for growth and development. Thus, this medication prevents cancer cells from growing.
Uses of Cetuximab
Cetuximab is used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer and squamous cancer of the head and neck by inhibiting the growth and spread of the cancer cells.
Cetuximab Drug administaration and Dosage available
It should only be administered by a trained doctor or nurse. Do not self-administer the injection. Before giving the Cetuximab injection, you will be given other antiallergic medicine (pre-medication) to reduce the possible side effects. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of your treatment based on the disease severity and other factors. It will be given as an intravenous infusion, and you will be monitored carefully for any unwanted side effects.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Cetuximab
Warnings
Cetuximab may cause infusion-related side effects, so monitoring your reaction during and even after the treatment is important. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to this medicine or any of its ingredients Inform your doctor if you are allergic to red meat or tick bite or positive for antibodies; since it makes a severe allergic reaction. Please tell your doctor if you have eye problems like blurred vision, red or severe dry eyes, or eye pain. Inform your doctor if you have heart, lung, or kidney problems before starting this treatment.
Precautions
Your doctor will take a blood test to monitor your WBC count; because there is a chance of reducing WBC counts, while taking this medicine with a combination of anticancer medicine (platinum-based therapy) Inform your doctor if you take Fluropyrimidine as an anticancer combination medicine as this medication can cause life-threatening heart problems. Do not breastfeed or drive while taking the Cetuximab injection. Discuss the effective contraception method as this medicine should not be used during pregnancy. It is unsafe to consume alcohol because it can cause excessive drowsiness. Consult your doctor for more information.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Cetuximab are diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, excessive growth of hair in the skin, low blood counts, difficulty breathing, cough, liver problems, infections, headache, weakness, and skin rash.
Word Of Advice
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light. Store Cetuximab in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Contact your doctor for more concerns. If you have missed any dosing appointments, inform your doctor and schedule immediately. Before starting the treatment, your doctor will monitor you to detect whether your blood contains the normal or mutant form of RAS. If they contain, then Cetuximab must not receive in combination with other anticancer treatments containing Oxaliplatin. It is not advised to use in children and adolescents.
Frequently Asked Question
Cetuximab is not a cure for cancer; instead, it can help to slow down or restrict the growth and spread of cancer cells, which improves the quality of life of patients with certain types of cancer.
Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody drug that targets a specific protein in cancer cells, while other cancer drugs may work differently.
The frequency of Cetuximab treatments can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer being treated, as well as other factors such as the patient’s overall health.
Yes, Cetuximab is often used with radiation therapy or chemotherapy to treat certain types of cancer.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.