Erbitux

by Martin Dow Marker

Active ingredient: Cetuximab

Packs

About Cetuximab

Cytostatic

Uses

In combination with irinotecan for the treatment of epidermal growth factor receptor-expressing metastatic colorectal cancer after failure of irinotecan-containing therapy. In combination with radiotherapy for the treatment of locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head and neck.

How to take it

Metastatic colorectal carcinoma: Adults: Initial: 400 mg/m² IV infusion over 120 min. Maintenance: 250 mg/m² IV infusion over 60 min once weekly. Max Infusion Rate: 5 mL/min. Children: Not recommended. Do not administer as an IV push or bolus. Administered via infusion pump or syringe pump. Administer initial dose over 120 min, then administer subsequent dose over 60 min. The maximum inf rate is 5 mL/min (10 mg/min). Administer cetuximab through a low protein-binding 0.22 micrometer in-line filter. Observe patient for 1 hour after administration. Flush lines with 0.9 % NaCl injection after IV injection. Stability: Store vials under refrigeration at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F). Do not freeze.…

Side effects

Skin reactions, hypomagnesaemia, mild or moderate infusion-related reactions. Mild or moderate mucositis leading to epistaxis. Increased liver enzyme levels. Headache, conjunctivitis, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dehydration in particular secondary to diarrhoea or mucositis, hypocalcaemia, anorexia, GI upset.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Risk cannot be ruled out. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Pre-existing haematological disorders. Colorectal cancer with RAS mutations or unknown RAS status. Precautions: Monitor for infusion-related reactions. Special attention for patients with reduced performance status and preexisting cardiopulmonary disease. Discontinue if interstitial lung disease is diagnosed. Monitor serum electrolyte levels. In case of severe skin reactions, discontinue. Severe neutropenia may occur when combined with platinum-based chemotherapy. Renal or hepatic impairment. Severe dry eye, keratitis. Elderly.

Advice

This medication is administered intravenously. Contact prescriber if there is fever, chills or difficulty in breathing. Avoid direct sunlight, wear sunscreen, proper eyewear and protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity. Males and females both should use an effective contraceptive during treatment and for 6 months after last dose.

Full information on Cetuximab →

Interactions with Cetuximab

Platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents, 5-FU.

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Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

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