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BEVACIZUMAB

This page contains brief details about the drug bevacizumab, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Bevacizumab is the first antiangiogenic agent (a drug that blocks the formation of blood vessels) which was approved for its medical use in 2004.

Mechanism of Action of Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab Injection is a biological agent used in targeted cancer therapy. Classified as a monoclonal antibody and a VEGF inhibitor, it targets VEGF-A, a factor involved in forming blood vessels that supply tumors with nutrition and oxygen for growth. By selectively binding to the tumor, bevacizumab inhibits its growth. It is often administered in combination with other chemotherapy agents.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Krabeva 400mg Injection
BIOCON LTD ₹17,170.00
Syndyma 100mg Injection
CIPLA LTD ₹24,755.00
Vegfxta 100mg Injection
FRESENIUS KABI INDIA PVT LTD ₹8,965.00

Uses of Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab Injection is designed to treat solid tumors by direct injection into the bloodstream. It has been approved for the treatment of various primary and advanced-stage cancers, including metastatic breast cancer, metastatic cervical cancer, glioblastoma multiforme (brain cancer), advanced kidney cancer, metastatic colorectal cancer, advanced non-small-cell lung cancer, liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), and cancers of the ovary, cervix, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneum.

Bevacizumab Drug administaration and Dosage available

A healthcare professional will administer Bevacizumab Injection as an intravenous infusion. The first dose is given over 90 minutes, with subsequent infusions potentially reduced to 30 minutes if well tolerated. The number of infusions is typically based on the patient’s response to the therapy. The oncologist will determine the appropriate dosage of Bevacizumab Injection based on the patient’s height, weight, body surface area, and type of cancer. This medication is available in two dosages: 100 mg and 400 mg. Each 4 ml vial contains 100 mg of Bevacizumab Injection, and each 16 ml vial contains 400 mg of Bevacizumab Injection.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Bevacizumab

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, a fever over 100°F, or severe bleeding. During Bevacizumab injection treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your white blood cell count, platelets, blood sugar, electrolytes, and kidney function to prevent serious complications. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart failure. This medication is not recommended for use within 28 days before or after surgery, as it can delay wound healing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any visual disturbances.

Precautions

Taking Bevacizumab Injection can lead to delayed effects such as menstrual irregularities, ovarian failure, and impaired fertility in women. It is important for both men and women who plan to conceive in the near future to use reliable contraceptive methods. It is advisable to continue using birth control for at least 6 months after completing treatment. Avoid breastfeeding while undergoing treatment, as Bevacizumab can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby’s growth and development.

Side Effects

Common side effects that may occur during treatment with Bevacizumab Injection include numbness in the feet, severe fatigue, high blood pressure, dry mouth, bleeding complications, stomach ulcers, skin blisters, increased pulse rate, darkened urine, mouth sores, muscle and joint pain. If you notice any signs of allergic reaction such as excessive sweating, chest pain, or tremors, contact your doctor promptly.

Word Of Advice

Bevacizumab can cause constipation, hence it is advised to consume plenty of water during the treatment. Eat a well-balanced diet. If you feel dizziness or any visual disturbances, you should avoid driving or handling machines. To prevent mouth ulcer, it is advised to rinse your mouth thrice daily. Apply cool compress at the injection site to reduce the pain.

Frequently Asked Question

Bevacizumab Injection is a recombinant monoclonal antibody that belongs to the immunotherapy class of cancer treatment. It can either be used as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy medications to improve the overall survival rate.
While for women with reproductive potential subjected to Bevacizumab Injection, it is advised to discuss with your doctor regarding the effective birth control methods during the treatment. Also, to be continued for a minimum of 6 months after the treatment course completion as this medicine may impair fertility.
Bevacizumab Injection is associated with increased risk of bleeding complications and poor wound healing. Hence it is suggested to avoid planning for surgery and maintain an interval of 28days before or after surgery.
All the side effects that are relatively caused by Bevacizumab Injection occur until the drug concentration stays in the body. It is found that this medicine will be contained in our body for almost 4 months after the final dose.
Bevacizumab Injection is given intravenously through infusion and the amount of drug will be measured based on the patient’s body weight, height and age. The first dose will be administered for 90 minutes and if well tolerated the infusion time can be reduced to 30 minutes.

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.