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AMIVANTAMAB
This page contains brief details about the drug amivantamab, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Amivantamab is an anticancer drug that belongs to the class of medications called bispecific antibodies.FDA approved it on May 21, 2021, for the treatment of a type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Mechanism of Action of Amivantamab
Amivantamab is a bispecific antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET). Specifically engineered to identify and bind to specific targets in the body, it focuses on two proteins present in cancer cells. The mechanism involves attaching to these proteins, potentially slowing or halting the growth of lung cancer and reducing the size of the tumor.
AVAILABLE BRANDS
AMIVANTAMAB
Available Brands
Uses of Amivantamab
Amivantamab is a drug administered intravenously. It is employed in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has metastasized and exhibits specific alterations in the EGFR gene. This medication is utilized when surgical removal is not feasible, and the condition has progressed despite or after treatment with other anticancer medications.
Amivantamab Drug administaration and Dosage available
A healthcare professional trained in cancer chemotherapy, such as a doctor or nurse, will administer Amivantamab in a hospital or clinic setting. The medication is delivered through an intravenous infusion drip into your vein, a process that takes several hours. It is crucial not to self-administer the injection. The specific dose and duration of the treatment will be determined by your doctor, considering factors such as the severity of your disease, body weight, and other relevant factors.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Amivantamab
Warnings
The medication is designed to induce lung inflammation. If you experience sudden difficulty in breathing, cough, or fever, indicative of lung inflammation, promptly report these symptoms to your physician. Amivantamab carries the potential for harm to the fetus; therefore, inform your physician if you are pregnant, suspect pregnancy, or are planning for pregnancy before commencing the treatment. This injection may lead to severe infusion reactions; notify your physician immediately if you experience allergic reactions such as itching, swelling in your face or hands, tingling in the mouth or throat, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
Precautions
Notify your physician of any existing kidney problems, as well as liver or lung issues, before commencing the therapy. Due to the potential harm to the fetus, it is essential to use effective contraception during the treatment. Employing a reliable birth control method during the treatment and for 3 months after your last dose is imperative. Refrain from taking this injection if you are allergic to amivantamab or any other ingredients in the medication. It is not recommended for individuals below 18 years of age. Your healthcare professional may recommend specific blood tests to monitor the effectiveness and potential side effects of the therapy.
Side Effects
Common side effects of amivantamab include swelling in the face, hands, and feet, inflammation in the nails, constipation, nausea, vomiting, inflamed and sore mouth, musculoskeletal pain, cough, shortness of breath, and tiredness. Additionally, severe rashes on the skin, eye pain and infection, inflammation of the lungs, and infusion reactions are also reported as common side effects.
Word Of Advice
Store amivantamab in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C); do not freeze. Keep the injection out of the reach of children and pets. If you miss any dosing appointments, notify your doctor and reschedule immediately. To minimize skin problems, restrict sun exposure during and for 2 months after treatment. Wear protective clothing, and regularly apply sunscreen and alcohol-free moisturizers to your skin and nails while using this medicine. If you experience eye pain or vision problems, contact your doctor or nurse promptly. Consult your doctor before using contact lenses while on this medication. Avoid breastfeeding during the treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Your doctor may recommend certain tests to assess the effectiveness of the therapy.
Frequently Asked Question
Allergic reactions like itching, swelling in your face or hands, tingling in mouth or throat, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness should be informed to your doctor immediately.
Amivantamab is given as a cycle therapy. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the therapy based on your disease severity and condition.
Your first dose (the infusion on Day 1 and Day 2) can take about 4 to 6 hours. Infusions can get shorter starting on Week 2 and can take about 2 to 4 hours. Your doctor will decide the infusion rate based on your disease and other factors.
Eye pain, dry eyes, eye redness, blurred vision, changes in vision, itchy eyes, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light are the eye problems that may occur with this treatment. Inform your physician if you face any of the symptoms.
Amivantamab can cause skin reactions. You should limit your time in the sun during your treatment with this medicine.
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.