Bevacizumab
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(FDA), US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
Definite
Pharmaceutical Class
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Bevacizumab is used to treat certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and glioblastoma, which is a type of brain cancer. It is often used in combination with other cancer treatments to enhance its effectiveness.
Bevacizumab works by inhibiting a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promotes the growth of new blood vessels. By blocking VEGF, it reduces the blood supply to tumors, slowing their growth.
Bevacizumab is given as an infusion into a vein by a healthcare professional. The frequency and dosage depend on your specific condition and treatment plan, typically every two to three weeks.
Common side effects of bevacizumab include high blood pressure, fatigue, and headache. These effects vary from person to person and should be discussed with your doctor if they occur.
Bevacizumab can increase the risk of bleeding and wound healing complications. It may also cause high blood pressure and kidney problems. It should not be used if you have untreated central nervous system metastases, which are cancerous growths in the brain or spinal cord.
Indications and Purpose
How does bevacizumab work?
Bevacizumab works by inhibiting a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promotes the growth of new blood vessels. By blocking VEGF, bevacizumab reduces the blood supply to tumors, slowing their growth. Think of it like cutting off the water supply to a plant, causing it to wither. This mechanism helps treat cancers like colorectal cancer and lung cancer.
Is bevacizumab effective?
Bevacizumab is effective in treating certain types of cancer by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors. Clinical studies show it can improve survival rates and delay disease progression in conditions like colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and glioblastoma. The effectiveness of bevacizumab varies depending on the type of cancer and individual patient factors. Your doctor will monitor your response to the treatment to ensure it's working as intended.
What is bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies, which work by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors. This helps slow or stop the growth of cancer. Bevacizumab is used for conditions like colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and glioblastoma. It is often used in combination with other cancer treatments.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab is usually used for long-term treatment of certain cancers. The duration of use depends on your specific condition, response to treatment, and any side effects you experience. Your doctor will determine how long you should continue taking bevacizumab. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your bevacizumab treatment.
How do I dispose of bevacizumab?
Unused bevacizumab should be disposed of properly to avoid harm. If possible, bring it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If you can't find a take-back program, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on safe disposal methods. Proper disposal helps protect people and the environment.
How do I take bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab is given as an infusion into a vein by a healthcare professional. The frequency and dosage depend on your specific condition and treatment plan. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you miss an appointment for your bevacizumab infusion, contact your healthcare provider for advice on rescheduling. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for bevacizumab to start working?
Bevacizumab starts working in your body shortly after administration, but the full therapeutic effects may take weeks to months to become apparent. The time it takes to see results can vary based on the type of cancer, individual patient factors, and the specific treatment plan. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider will help assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
How should I store bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and protected from light. Do not freeze or shake the medication. Keep it in its original packaging until ready to use. Always store bevacizumab out of children's reach to prevent accidental exposure. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
What is the usual dose of bevacizumab?
The usual dose of bevacizumab varies based on the condition being treated. For cancer treatment, it is typically given as an infusion every two to three weeks. The exact dose and frequency depend on your specific condition and treatment plan. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can bevacizumab be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Bevacizumab is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it could potentially affect a nursing infant. If you're taking bevacizumab and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can bevacizumab be taken safely while pregnant?
Bevacizumab is not recommended during pregnancy. It can harm an unborn baby by affecting blood vessel development. There is limited information on its use in pregnant women, but animal studies suggest potential risks. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest treatment options. Your doctor can help create a plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take bevacizumab with other prescription drugs?
Bevacizumab can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects. For example, combining it with blood thinners like warfarin can increase bleeding risk. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Your doctor will help manage potential interactions to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
Does bevacizumab have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Bevacizumab can cause high blood pressure, bleeding, and delayed wound healing. These effects vary in frequency and severity. Serious side effects include gastrointestinal perforation, which is a hole in the stomach or intestines, and severe bleeding. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is important to manage any adverse effects.
Does bevacizumab have any safety warnings?
Yes, bevacizumab has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of bleeding and wound healing complications. It may also cause high blood pressure and kidney problems. If you experience symptoms like severe bleeding, high blood pressure, or signs of kidney issues, contact your doctor immediately. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor for these potential side effects.
Is bevacizumab addictive?
Bevacizumab is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Bevacizumab works by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors, and this mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that bevacizumab doesn't carry this risk.
Is bevacizumab safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more vulnerable to the side effects of bevacizumab, such as high blood pressure and bleeding. It's important for older adults to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while on this medication. Regular check-ups and blood pressure monitoring can help manage potential risks. Always discuss any concerns with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking bevacizumab?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking bevacizumab. Alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects like high blood pressure and liver problems. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for any unusual symptoms. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking bevacizumab to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking bevacizumab?
You can exercise while taking bevacizumab, but be cautious. This medication can increase blood pressure and the risk of bleeding, which might affect your exercise capacity. Avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports that could increase the risk of injury. To exercise safely, listen to your body and stop if you feel dizzy or unwell. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on exercise while on bevacizumab.
Is it safe to stop bevacizumab?
Stopping bevacizumab should only be done under your doctor's guidance. It's used for long-term treatment of certain cancers, and stopping it suddenly could affect your treatment outcome. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but your condition may worsen if the medication is stopped abruptly. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.
What are the most common side effects of bevacizumab?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of bevacizumab include high blood pressure, fatigue, and headache. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting bevacizumab, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or any of its components. It's contraindicated in patients with untreated central nervous system metastases, which are cancerous growths in the brain or spinal cord, due to the risk of bleeding. Caution is needed in patients with recent surgery or those with a high risk of bleeding. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
