Vectibix
Generic name:panitumumab [ pan-i-TUE-moo-mab ]
Drug class:EGFR inhibitors
What is Vectibix?
Vectibix is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Vectibix is used to treat a certain type of metastatic colorectal cancer that has progressed after treatment with other chemotherapy.
Vectibix is used only if your tumor is a wild-type RAS tumor, for which your doctor will test.
Warnings
Before you receive Vectibix, tell your doctor if you have any allergies or breathing problems.
Vectibix may cause severe skin problems such as acne, itching, redness, skin rash, dryness, peeling, cracking, or oozing, and swelling or infection around your fingernails or toenails. More severe forms of skin problems can lead to widespread infection and possibly death. Seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of any skin rash.
Some people receiving this medicine have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, short of breath, or if you have a fever or chills during the injection.
The side effects of Vectibix may not appear when you first start using the medication. Severe skin or eye reactions may occur up to 2 weeks after the start of your treatment. These effects may not clear up for weeks or even months after you stop receiving panitumumab.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Vectibix can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.
You may have irregular menstrual periods while receiving this medicine.
Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are receiving this medicine, whether you are a man or a woman. Panitumumab use by either parent may cause birth defects. Continue using birth control for 2 months after you stop receiving this medication.
Before receiving this medicine
You should not use Vectibix if you are allergic to panitumumab.
To make sure Vectibix is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
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).
Using Vectibix during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 2 months after your last dose.
You may have irregular menstrual periods while receiving Vectibix.
It is not known whether panitumumab passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
How is Vectibix given?
Vectibix is injected into a vein through an IV. A ...
