Bevacizumab

It is monoclonal antibody which attaches to a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), required by the body grow blood vessels. It is thought that by doing this, the drug stops tumors from being able to create new blood vessels to feed the tumor. This limits the tumors supply of nutrients, which in turn may slow or stop their growth.

Indications

Metastatic colorectal cancer, Advanced nonosquamous non-small cell lung cancer, Metastatic kidney cancer, Breast cancer, Glioblastoma.

Dosage

Intravenous infusion; 5-15mg/kg variable dose.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to bevacizumab or its components. -Pregnancy, as it may cause harm to the fetus.

Special Precautions

Paediatric: Safety not established. Pregnancy: Category C; Use if risk to fetus outweighs benefits. Lactation: Secreted in milk. Elderly: Increased side effects in elderly.

Side Effects

Nosebleeds, headache, high blood pressure, inflammation of the nose, taste change, dry skin, rectal bleeding, tear production disorder, back pain, inflammation of the skin, gastrointestinal (GI) perforation , serious bleeding, impair wound healing, stroke, vision problem, infusion reaction, infertility in women.

Drug Interactions

-Avoid combining with other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (e.g., anticoagulants). -Possible interactions with other anticancer therapies.