Erbitux 100mg Injection

About

Erbitux (Cetuximab) is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a protein found on the surface of many cancer cells. By binding to EGFR, Erbitux inhibits the activation of signaling pathways crucial for cell growth, proliferation, and survival, thereby blocking tumor progression and inducing apoptosis. It is administered intravenously and is a key component in the treatment of certain types of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) with wild-type KRAS, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Erbitux is often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to enhance its anti-tumor effects. Patients are typically screened for KRAS mutation status before treatment for mCRC to ensure optimal therapeutic benefit.

Uses

• Metastatic colorectal cancer (KRAS wild-type)
• Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
• EGFR-expressing colorectal cancer
• Advanced head and neck cancer

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion rate are determined by your doctor based on body surface area.

Benefits

• Improves progression-free survival in mCRC
• Enhances response rates to chemotherapy
• Effective in specific EGFR-expressing cancers
• Targeted therapy with a known mechanism
• Can be used as monotherapy or in combination
• Helps manage tumor growth and spread

Side Effects

• Acne-like rash
• Infusion-related reactions
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hypomagnesemia
• Stomatitis
• Headache
• Fever
• Skin dryness
• Pruritus
• Paronychia

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - No specific interaction with alcohol, but general health advice applies during cancer treatment.
• Pregnancy - Not recommended; potential for fetal harm. Use effective contraception during and for 2 months after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended; unknown if excreted in breast milk and potential for serious adverse reactions in infants.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor liver function closely.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; monitor kidney function closely.
• Lung - Monitor for interstitial lung disease, a rare but serious pulmonary toxicity.

Disclaimer

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