Panitumumab
Generic name: panitumumab [ pan-i-TUE-moo-mab ]
Brand name: Vectibix
Dosage form: intravenous solution (20 mg/mL)
Drug class:EGFR inhibitors
What is panitumumab?
Panitumumab is used to treat a certain type of metastatic colorectal cancer that has progressed after treatment with other chemotherapy.
Panitumumab is used only if your tumor is a wild-type RAS tumor, for which your doctor will test.
Panitumumab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Panitumumab may cause severe skin problems that can lead to widespread infection and possibly death. Seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of any skin rash.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use panitumumab if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
lung disease, breathing problems;
an ulcer on the cornea of your eye (keratitis); or
an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in your blood).
Panitumumab may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using panitumumab, and for at least 2 months after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
You may have irregular menstrual periods while receiving panitumumab.
You should not breastfeed while using panitumumab.
How is panitumumab given?
Your doctor may perform a biopsy to make sure panitumumab is the right treatment for your cancer.
Panitumumab is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Panitumumab must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 90 minutes to complete.
Panitumumab is usually given once every 2 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. You can easily become dehydrated while using panitumumab. This can lead to very low blood pressure, electrolyte disorders, or kidney failure.
You may need frequent blood tests. Your skin and vision may also need to be checked.
Panitumumab can have long lasting effects on your body. You may need frequent medical tests for up to 8 weeks after you stop using this medicine.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appoint...