Cetuximab Pharmacology

Cetuximab

About Cetuximab
Epidermal growth factor receptor binding FAB. Cetuximab is composed of the Fv (variable; antigen-binding) regions of the 225 murine EGFr monoclonal antibody specific for the N-terminal portion of human EGFr with human IgG1 heavy and kappa light chain constant (framework) regions.
Mechanism of Action of Cetuximab
Cetuximab is a recombinant human/mouse chimeric monoclonal antibody. It binds specifically to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr, HER1, c-ErbB-1) on both normal and tumor cells. EGFr is over-expressed in many colorectal cancers. Cetuximab competitively inhibits the binding of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and other ligands, such as transforming growth factor?alpha. Binding of cetuximab to the EGFr blocks phosphorylation and activation of receptor-associated kinases, resulting in inhibition of cell growth, induction of apoptosis, decreased matrix metalloproteinase secretion and reduced vascular endothelial growth factor production.
Pharmacokinets of Cetuximab
Absorption: Steady-state concentrations are reached after about 3 wk.
Excretion: Mean elimination half-life: About 112 hr.
Onset of Action for Cetuximab
N/A
Duration of Action for Cetuximab
N/A
Half Life of Cetuximab
N/A
Side Effects of Cetuximab
1.Fatigue
2.Pain
3.Headache
4.Fever
5.Confusion
6.Anxiety
7.Insomnia
8.Chills
9.Rigors
10.Depression
11.Acneiform rash
12.Rash
13.Dry skin
14.Pruritus
15.Nail changes
16.Hypomagnesaemia
17.Abdominal pain
18.Constipation
19.Diarrhea
20.Vomiting
21.Nausea
22.Wt loss
23.Weakness
24.Bone pain
Contra-indications of Cetuximab
Hyper sensitivity to any ingredient in Cetuximab.
Special Precautions while taking Cetuximab
1.Infusion rate should be reduced if patient exhibits signs of toxicity.
2.Discontinue treatment if there is severe infusion reactions.
3.Caution when used in patients with history of coronary artery disease, heart failure and arrhythmias.
4.Monitor serum electrolytes during and after (for at least 8 wk) cetuximab therapy.
5.Exposure to sunlight may worsen skin reactions.
6.Risk of interstitial lung disease in patients with preexisting lung disease.
7.Dose should be modified if there is occurrence of severe acneiform rash, refer to product insert/SPG for dosing guidelines.
Pregnancy Related Information
Not recommended
Old Age Related Information
Use with caution
Breast Feeding Related Information
Use with caution
Children Related Information
Not recommended
Indications for Cetuximab
1.Metastatic colorectal cancer
2.Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Interactions for Cetuximab
N/A
Typical Dosage for Cetuximab
Monotherapay- The recommended initial dose is 400 mg/m2 administered as a 120-minute intravenous infusion (maximum infusion rate 10 mg/min).
With radiation therapy- Adult- IV- The recommended initial dose is 400 mg/m2 administered one week prior to initiation of a course of radiation therapy as a 120-minute intravenous infusion (maximum infusion rate 10 mg/min). Maintenance: 250mg/m2.
Schedule of Cetuximab
N/A
Storage Requirements for Cetuximab
Store it in refrigerator (2?C to 8?C). Do not freeze it.

Effects of Missed Dosage of Cetuximab
It is important that receive cetuximab as scheduled by your doctor. If you miss a dose,doctor immediately to obtain a new dosing schedule.
Effects of Overdose of Cetuximab
N/A

Home Delivery for Cetuximab in Your City

Medicine India is just a publishing medium for medicine related information and does not provide services or sales of medicines including cetuximab.

However, we do publish a comprehensive directory of Pharmacies, Chemists and Druggists in cities all over India. You can use this directory to find the medicine stores in your city (or area) that provide home delivery services for cetuximab and other medicines and health products. Home delivery services for cetuximab may be free or they may cost you depending on the pharmacy and the minimum order requirements. It would be best to get this clarified while placing the order.

Please be aware that you should take cetuximab only if a doctor has recommended or prescribed it. Some or all pharmacies who provide a home delivery service for medicines might insist on a prescription for cetuximab before they complete the sale. You can get this information while placing the order for cetuximab with the pharmacy.

Cetuximab is a generic medicine name and there are several brands available for it. Some of the brands for cetuximab might be better known than cetuximab itself. If the pharmacy that's willing to deliver medicines to your home doesn't have cetuximab in stock, you can ask for one of the branded alternatives for cetuximab.