Rx
Description
Erbitux (Cetuximab) is an anticancer agent. It is typically used for the treatment of squamous cell cancer of the head and neck and for the treatment of metastatic (spread) colorectal (cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum, the colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus) cancer. It may also have other uses.
Additional information
Erbitux (Cetuximab)'s dosage depends on the condition, it is usually given once weekly or every two weeks. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Your doctor or nurse will administer Erbitux (Cetuximab) to you in a hospital or clinical setting. WARNING: Use with caution in patients with a history of heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Instruct patients to limit sun exposure during cetuximab treatment to avoid skin toxicity. Hypomagnesemia (low levels of magnesium) is common with cetuximab (may be severe),severe hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) has been reported. These events may occur at anytime during therapy and without warning. In addition to its desired action, Erbitux (Cetuximab) may cause some side effects, notably: It may cause heart disorders, malaise, fatigue, headache, confusion, anxiety and depression. It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), weight loss, dehydration, low magnesium levels, low potassium levels and low calcium levels. It may cause abdominal pain, weight loss, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and xerostomia (dry mouth resulting from reduced or absent saliva flow). It may cause hair loss, fever and white blood cell disturbances. Contraindications: Known severe hypersensitivity (severe allergic reaction) to cetuximab or any component of the formulation. Taking Erbitux (Cetuximab) during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. There is no available data regarding the harm of Erbitux (Cetuximab) for the fetus, therefore it is not recommended to use it. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor. A treatment with Erbitux (Cetuximab) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Erbitux (Cetuximab)
Warning
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
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