Bevacizumab

Generic Name

Bevacizumab - injection (bev-ah-CIZ-oo-mab).

Brand Name

Avastin.

General Information

Bevacizumab is a substance that helps the body fight cancer. This medicine is often given together with certain other medicines. Several adverse side effects have occurred due to the drug, with two of the most common being hypertension and blood clots. Neutropenia, neuropathy, and proteinuria also occurred at times. This medication can cause bleeding. Some episodes may be minor including nosebleeds, minor gum bleeding, and bleeding. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Bevacizumab has been approved for use only by adults. There is no specific information comparing use of bevacizumab in children with use in other age groups. Bevacizumab stops tumor growth by preventing the formation of new blood vessels by targeting and inhibiting the function of a natural protein called vascular endothelial growth factor that stimulates new blood vessel formation. Bevacizumab has been investigated for efficacy in treatment in a number of cancers. The drug was first developed as a genetically engineered version of a mouse antibody that contains both human and mouse components. Genentech is able to produce the antibody in production-scale quantities.

Bevacizumab Dosage

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor.
The first dose of this medication is administered by infusion into a vein over 90 minutes by a health care professional.
It is usually given once every 2 weeks.
The recommended dose of Avastin , when used in combination with bolus-ifl, is 5 mg/kg.
Bevacizumab is often given together with certain other medicines.
The recommended dose of Avastin , when used in combination with folfox4, is 10 mg/kg.

Side Effects of Bevacizumab

The following side effects of Bevacizumab may includes:

Increased urination.
Cracks in the skin.
Pinpoint red spots on skin.
High blood pressure.
Cough.
Watery or bloody diarrhea.
Blood in stool.
Chest pain.
Difficulty breathing.
Extreme fatigue.

Warnings and precautions before taking Bevacizumab

Do not take bevacizumab without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.
Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.
Tell your surgeon that you are taking this medication before having any type of surgery.
Do not use bevacizumab without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Rarely, the drug can cause uncontrolled hypertension. If you are taking a drug for hypertension, talk to your doctor about this. If you do not have hypertension, you may develop it.
This medication can rarely cause a tear in the stomach (gastrointestinal perforation and wound dehiscence) or bloody vomit, which sometimes can be fatal.

Overdosage

After taking Bevacizumab, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

Disclaimer : All information on www.healthatoz.info is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.