Brand names: Vectibix™
- Drug Forms:
- Panitumumab injection (below)
- Panitumumab Solution for injection
- Español:
- Panitumumab Solución para inyección
Panitumumab injection
What is Panitumumab injection?
PANITUMUMAB (Vectibix™) is a monoclonal antibody. It targets a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). This protein is found on the surface of normal cells (such as skin cells and hair cells) and some types of cancer cells including colorectal cancer and head and neck cancer. Panitumumab works by interfering with how these tumor cells grow and causes these cells to die.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• lung disease, especially lung fibrosis
• an unusual reaction to panitumumab, hamster protein, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should this medicine be used?
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
What drug(s) may interact with Panitumumab?
• some medicines for cancer
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking Panitumumab?
This medicine commonly causes skin reactions including a rash that looks like acne, skin dryness and cracking, redness, swelling and other signs of inflammation that can result in skin infections. These reactions may require treatment with antibiotics. Notify your prescriber if you notice any rash, and especially if it seems to get worse or does not get better. You should wear sunscreen and hats and limit your sun exposure (including exposure in tanning beds) while receiving panitumumab. Sunlight can worsen the skin reactions you may experience while receiving this medicine.
There is a possibility that this medicine could cause harm to an unborn child. If you are pregnant or considering getting pregnant, talk to your health care provider about the risks of panitumumab therapy. Discuss possible methods of birth control.
What side effects may I notice from receiving Panitumumab?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath anytime during or after your treatments
• extreme tiredness or weakness
• eye inflammation
• mouth sores
• reactions during infusion of the drug (especially difficulty breathing, chills, wheezing, hives, faintness and/or dizziness)
• skin rash, redness, or severe dry or itchy skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• constipation
• diarrhea
• fatigue, tiredness, or weakness
• nausea/vomiting
• sores on the inside of your mouth
• stomach pain
Where can I keep my medicine?
This does not apply; you will only receive this medication in your prescriber's office or clinic.
Last updated: 10/3/2006 2:25:00 PM
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
