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Cetuximab

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Monoclonal Antibody Erbitux® Cancer-related

Cetuximab - What is it for

​Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody which targets a certain type of protein on the surface of cancer cells to control their growth.

Cetuximab - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Cetuximab cause?

During infusion

Please alert the nurse if you experience any of the following symptoms during infusion:

  • Itch, rashes, fever, chills and rigors, shortness of breath

Other possible side effects

  • Acne-like rash may appear within the first 2 weeks of treatment, most frequently on the face, upper chest and back. The rash tends to resolve over time following cessation of treatment.
    Avoid or limit sun exposure as sunlight can exacerbate skin reactions.
  • Dry skin, itch and nail changes
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Fatigue

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Skin rash or unusual redness
  • Nail infection (red, swollen and tender nail folds, with or without pus)
  • Excessive diarrhea persisting more than 24 hours or unresolved with anti-diarrheal medication
  • Signs of low magnesium levels (e.g. severe fatigue, irritability, numbness or tingling sensation, cramps, abnormal heart beat)
  • Shortness of breath, worsening or persistent cough

Before taking Cetuximab , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Cetuximab ?

Cetuximab - Dosage and How to Use

How should Cetuximab be used?

What should I do if I miss a dose?

What should I do if I overdose?

Cetuximab - Handling

How should I handle Cetuximab safely?

Cetuximab - Storage

How should I store Cetuximab ?

How should I dispose of Cetuximab safely?

Cetuximab - Additional Information

  • Updated on 10/13/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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