Erbitux® (cetuximab) is a drug used in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, as well as advanced colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and rectum) that expresses a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments as part of a person's chemotherapy regimen.
Full Answer
Can Erbitux cure cancer?
Erbitux is a monoclonal antibody that harnesses the power of your immune system to fight the cancer. It has fewer bad side effects than the platinum based drugs. To me, the side effects of Erbitux and the success rate were worth the risks. It has been 14 months since the last treatment and my doctors are very optimistic.
Is Erbitux immunotherapy?
Drugs that target EGFR can be used to treat some advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers. Cetuximab (Erbitux) is a monoclonal antibody, which is a man-made version of an immune system protein that targets EGFR. Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer cells often have more than normal amounts of EGFR.
Can Opdivo be taken before or after a chemotherapy?
OPDIVO ® (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable advanced, recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after prior fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-based chemotherapy.
What are the negative side effects of chemotherapy?
Side effects of chemotherapy
- Skin and nail changes. Some chemotherapy drugs may cause your skin to peel, darken or become dry and itchy. ...
- Thinking and memory changes. Some people say they have difficulty concentrating, focusing and remembering things after they have had chemotherapy.
- Anaemia. ...
- Infections. ...
- Bleeding problems. ...
- Nerve and muscle effects. ...
- Changes in hearing. ...
- Sex and fertility. ...
Is Erbitux a chemo drug?
Cetuximab is the generic name for the trade name drug Erbitux®. In some cases, health care professionals may use the trade name Erbitux® or other name C225 when referring to the generic drug name Cetuximab. Drug type: Cetuximab is an anti-cancer ("anti-neoplastic") targeted therapy.
Is cetuximab chemotherapy or immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as avelumab and cetuximab, may help the body's immune system attack the cancer, and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread.
Does Erbitux cure cancer?
Erbitux Offers 'cure' Potential To 3 Out Of 4 Advanced Colon Cancer Patients - But Conditions Apply. Researchers have narrowed down the conditions in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) where treatment with the targeted biologic therapy Erbitux (cetuximab) is most likely to succeed.
What cancer is Erbitux used for?
Cetuximab is a type of targeted cancer drug. It is also known by its brand name Erbitux. You might have it as a treatment for advanced bowel cancer and head and neck cancers that start in the mouth and throat.
How do you know if cetuximab is working?
Treatment with cetuximab may cause changes in the way your liver works. This will return to normal when the treatment finishes. You're very unlikely to notice any problems, but your doctor or nurse will take regular blood samples to check your liver is working properly. You will have regular blood tests to check this.
How well does cetuximab work?
Cetuximab also has activity as monotherapy in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic SCCHN who had failed platinum-based chemotherapy,. with a 12.6% response rate, disease control rate of 46%, and median response duration of ~ 6 months.
Do you lose your hair with Erbitux?
ERBITUX may cause hair changes. Hair changes during EGFR treatment may: Make the eyelashes grow very fast and become very long and bother your eyes. Cause fast growth to eyebrows.
How long is Erbitux treatment?
The data described in Warnings and Precautions reflect exposure to ERBITUX in 1373 patients with SCCHN or CRC enrolled in clinical trials and treated at the recommended dosage for a median of 7 to 14 weeks [see Clinical Studies].
Is Erbitux targeted therapy?
“Erbitux, a targeted therapy for colon cancer, might be forever known as the drug that led to Martha Stewart's downfall.”2 Martha Stewart's sale of her ImClone stock around the time ImClone's application for FDA approval of Erbitux was stalled created a scandal and led to her imprisonment.
Does Erbitux cause neuropathy?
You may lose some feeling or have tingling or burning in your hands and/or feet. This is called peripheral neuropathy. This may increase with continued treatment.
Does Erbitux cause nausea?
Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, headache, stomachache, backache, fever/chills, trouble sleeping, weight loss, fatigue, drowsiness, eye redness/itching, nail changes, dry skin, and mouth/throat sores may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be quite severe.
When was Erbitux head and neck cancer diagnosed?
Since its first approval in 2004, ERBITUX has more than seven years of experience in medical practice. Additionally, approximately 127,000 patients received ERBITUX therapy over that time period in the U.S. alone.
Is cetuximab a monoclonal antibody?
Cetuximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody generated from fusion of the variable region of the murine anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody M225 and the human IgG1 constant region. The resulting antibody retains high affinity and specificity to EGFR and reduces immunogenicity.
What is the mechanism of action of cetuximab?
Cetuximab works by inhibiting the growth and survival of EGFR-positive tumours. In vitro, it promotes antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against certain human tumour types.
What is the difference between cetuximab and panitumumab?
Panitumumab is a human mAb and cetuximab is a mouse/human chimeric mAb. Although this distinction can sometimes lead to differences in the rates of infusion-related reactions between the two agents, these can be managed with the appropriate pre-medication prior to infusion.
When is cetuximab used?
Cetuximab is used to treat advanced bowel cancer when tests show the cancer cells do not have a change (mutation) in a gene called RAS. It is usually given with chemotherapy or sometimes targeted therapies. Cetuximab is used to treat some head and neck cancers which have spread.
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use Erbitux if you are allergic to cetuximab or to mouse protein.To make sure Erbitux is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have...
Erbitux Dosing Information
Usual Adult Dose for Colorectal Cancer:Initial Dose: 400 mg/m2 administered as a 2 hour intravenous infusion (maximum infusion rate 5 mL/min)Mainte...
What Should I Avoid While Receiving Erbitux?
Erbitux could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds while you are receiving cetuximab and for at least 2 months after your t...
What Other Drugs Will Affect Erbitux?
Other drugs may interact with cetuximab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your he...
What is ERBITUX approved for?
ERBITUX is approved for the treatment of certain patients who have colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Only patients whose tumors are KRAS wild-type (which means they have a KRAS mutation-negative gene), and whose tumors have a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), should receive ERBITUX.
What are the side effects of erbitux?
The most common side effects (all grades of severity) in patients with colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body whose tumors had a protein called Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) treated with ERBITUX and irinotecan were: acne-like rash, feeling weakness or discomfort, diarrhea, and nausea.
How much does ERBITUX affect blood flow?
2% of patients in the ERBITUX plus radiation and cisplatin treatment arm experienced decreased blood flow to the heart, compared to 0.9% in the radiation therapy and cisplatin alone treatment arm
How long after erbitux is it safe to wear sunscreen?
Sun exposure may worsen these effects. Patients taking ERBITUX should wear sunscreen and hats to limit sun exposure during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose of ERBITUX
Does erbitux cause low magnesium levels?
ERBITUX when given by itself and in combination with other cancer drugs can cause low levels of magnesium, calcium and potassium.
Does erbitux cause hair loss?
ERBITUX can cause skin problems including an acne-like rash, skin drying and cracking, infections (including infections of the blood, skin, eyes, and lips), swelling of the base of the nails or loss of the nails, inflammation of the eye or eyelid, decreased vision and abnormal hair growth. These symptoms were seen in several clinical trials for colorectal cancer and head and neck cancer with ERBITUX.
Can erbitux cause lung cancer?
ERBITUX can cause lung disease. Lung disease occurred in less than 0.5% of 1570 patients receiving ERBITUX in clinical trials for colorectal cancer and head and neck cancer; 1 patient died. Notify your doctor if you develop shortness of breath, a new or worsening cough and/or chest pain while receiving ERBITUX.
How is Erbitux given?
Erbitux is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
What other drugs will affect Erbitux?
Other drugs may interact with cetuximab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.
How long to take cetuximab before radiation?
In combination with radiation therapy or platinum-based therapy and fluorouracil:#N#-Initial dose: 400 mg/m2 IV over 120 minutes administered one week prior to a course of radiation therapy or on the first day of platinum-based therapy and fluorouracil#N#-Maintenance dose: 250 mg/m2 IV over 60 minutes once a week for the duration of radiation therapy (6 to 7 weeks) or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (complete cetuximab administration 1 hour prior to radiation therapy or platinum-based therapy with fluorouracil)#N#Monotherapy:#N#-Initial dose: 400 mg/m2 IV over 120 minutes#N#-Maintenance dose: 250 mg/m2 IV over 60 minutes once a week until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity#N#Comments:#N#-Premedicate with an H1 antagonist (e.g., 50 mg diphenhydramine) IV 30 to 60 minutes prior to the first dose.#N#-Premedication should be administered for subsequent doses based upon clinical judgment.#N#Uses:#N#Head and Neck Cancer:#N#-Locally or regionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with radiation.#N#-Recurrent locoregional disease or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with platinum-based therapy with fluorouracil.#N#-Recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck progressing after platinum-based therapy.
What is the name of the medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body?
Erbitux ( cetuximab) is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Can Erbitux cause shortness of breath?
Side effects may occur when Erbitux is injected into your vein. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, feverish, itchy, or short of breath during the infusion. Cetuximab has caused life-threatening side effects in a small number of patients. Your caregivers will watch you closely after you receive each Erbitux dose.
Can Erbitux cause cancer?
Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. You may need frequent medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results. Erbitux can have long-lasting effects on your body.
Does Erbitux make you sunburned?
Erbitux can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. Erbitux can have long lasting effects on your body. You may need frequent medical tests for a short time after you stop using this medicine.
What is cetuximab used for?
Cetuximab is also used alone or in combination with other medications to treat a certain type of cancer of the colon (large intestine) or rectum that has spread to other parts of the body. Cetuximab is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
How long after taking cetuximab can you get a tick bite?
Your doctor will watch you carefully while you receive each dose of cetuximab and for at least 1 hour afterward. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to red meat, or if you have ever been bitten by a tick.
Why is this medicine prescribed?
Cetuximab is used with or without radiation therapy to treat a certain type of cancer of the head and neck that has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. It can also be used with other medications to treat a certain type of head and neck cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or keeps coming back after treatment. Cetuximab is also used alone or in combination with other medications to treat a certain type of cancer of the colon (large intestine) or rectum that has spread to other parts of the body. Cetuximab is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
How long after cetuximab do you have to be pregnant?
You will have to take a pregnancy test before starting treatment. You should not become pregnant during your treatment with cetuximab and for at least 2 months after your final dose.
What to tell your doctor before taking Cetuximab?
tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
Can you get treatment with cetuximab?
You may not be able to receive treatment with cetuximab in the future. People with a head and neck cancer who are treated with radiation therapy and cetuximab may have an increased risk of cardiopulmonary arrest (condition in which the heart stops beating and breathing stops) and sudden death during or after their treatment.
Does cetuximab affect fertility?
you should know that this medication may decrease fertility in women. Talk to your doctor about the risks of receiving cetuximab.
What is the generic name for Erbitux?
Cetuximab. Cetuximab is the generic name for the trade name drug Erbitux®. In some cases, health care professionals may use the trade name Erbitux® or other name C225 when referring to the generic drug name Cetuximab. Drug type: Cetuximab is an anti-cancer ("anti-neoplastic") targeted therapy. This medication is classified as a "monoclonal ...
How is cetuximab given?
How Cetuximab Is Given: Cetuximab is given through a vein (intravenous (IV) Infusion). The amount of cetuximab that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated.
What is Cetuximab used for?
Drug type: Cetuximab is an anti-cancer ("anti-neoplastic") targeted therapy. This medication is classified as a "monoclonal antibody" and "Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Inhibitor." (For more detail, see "How this drug works" section below).
How long does it take for cetuximab to cause rash?
The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking cetuximab: Skin reactions: In most people, this will present as an acne like rash and will develop within the first 2 weeks of therapy .
Where is EGFR found?
EGFR is found on the surface of many normal cells and cancer cells . EGFR, when activated by your body during normal human cell-reproduction, makes the cell grow and divide. However, if the cell is a cancer cell, then growing and dividing means the cancer is getting larger.
Is cetuximab a side effect?
Cetuximab side effects are often predictable in terms of their onset, duration, and severity.
What is Erbitux for?
Cetuximab (Erbitux®) is an Immunotherapy Regimen for Head and Neck Cancer. How does cetuximab work? Cetuximab is designed to kill and slow growth of cancer cells.
How often is cetuximab given?
Cetuximab is usually given in an outpatient infusion center, allowing the person to go home afterwards. Cetuximab is repeated every once every 7 days. This is known as one Cycle. Each cycle is repeated until the drug no longer works or if unacceptable side effects occur.
How long after cetuximab is given to avoid sun exposure?
Avoid excess sun exposure while receiving cetuximab and up to 2 months after the last dose
How long does it take to infuse Cetuximab?
Cetuximab intravenous infusion (I.V.) over two hours on Cycle 1
What is clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a type of study in which people are assigned to groups that either receive a new treatment intervention or standard treatment. In clinical trials with patients with cancer, it is sometimes unethical to give no treatment or a placebo. The type of treatment received by the patient is determined by the study protocol. Ask your doctor if they have any clinical trials that are enrolling patients or know if any at treatment centers nearby. You may also visit the website clinicaltrials.gov to see what clinical trials might be available for all cancer types and where these clinical trial medications are being offered.
Does cetuximab cause shortness of breath?
The first dose of cetuximab is the most likely to have an infusion reaction, which includes: fever, shaking, chills, and shortness of breath; the incidence of this is very low, 2% or less. Even if medications are given beforehand this can happen. Side effects generally go away when the cetuximab is stopped. It may be restarted at a slower rate. Most patients are able to receive the entire dose, although it may take longer than expected
Does cetuximab have side effects?
In a multi-drug regimen, each medication has unique side effects. When these medicines are given together, drug-related side effects reported in clinical studies give the best estimate of what to expect. In clinical studies, the most commonly reported side effects with cetuximab are shown here. Many of these side effects are experienced because cetuximab is given with radiation in this treatment.
How does cetuximab work?
These antibodies can work in different ways, including stimulating the immune system to kill the cell, blocking cell growth or other functions necessary for cell growth. Cetuximab is a man-made version of a naturally occurring human/mouse antibody that inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
What is Cetuximab antibody?
About: Cetuximab (Erbitux®) Monoclonal antibodies are created in a lab to attach to the targets found on specific types of cancer cells. The antibody “calls” the immune system to attack the cell it is attached to, resulting in the immune system killing the cell. These antibodies can work in different ways, including stimulating ...
What are the risks of radiation therapy?
Patients with a prior history of coronary artery disease and/or receiving radiation therapy are at highest risk. Notify your healthcare team or go to the emergency room immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or feel dizzy or faint.
How to help nausea and vomiting from oncology?
Talk to your oncology care team so they can prescribe medications to help you manage nausea and vomiting. In addition, dietary changes may help. Avoid things that may worsen the symptoms, such as heavy or greasy/fatty, spicy or acidic foods (lemons, tomatoes, oranges). Try saltines, or ginger ale to lessen symptoms.
How to manage fatigue after cancer treatment?
While on cancer treatment, and for a period after, you may need to adjust your schedule to manage fatigue. Plan times to rest during the day and conserve energy for more important activities . Exercise can help combat fatigue; a simple daily walk with a friend can help.
Does EGFR cause cancer?
The EGFR is a protein that is abnormally over-expressed in many cancers, and the inhibition of EGFR results in a decrease in tumor cell growth and decreased production of other factors responsible for metastasis (spreading of cancer). This medication treats both head and neck and colorectal cancer. The colorectal cancer needs to test positive ...
Does cetuximab make your eyelashes grow?
Hair Changes: While receiving cetuximab, your eyelashes may grow very fast, become very long and bother your eyes. Speak to your provider about how to best manage this side effect. The hair on your head may become curly, fine or brittle. These changes tend to resolve once treatment is stopped.
