Vectibix 100mg injection is an anticancer drug belonging to the class of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, containing the active ingredient Panitumumab. It is used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer (cancer that begins in the colon or rectum and has spread to other parts of the body).
It is not recommended to take this injection if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. This drug targets certain proteins in the body, which can increase the risk of bleeding. If you experience any signs of bleeding while taking this drug, such as unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, blood in the urine, or bleeding gums, you should contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or temporarily stop the treatment. Eye problems can occur while on the treatment with this medicine such as inflammation and damage to the cornea, and the symptoms may include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.
It is important to tell your doctor if you experience any skin problems while taking this medicine. Your doctor may recommend topical creams or ointments to soothe the skin or antibiotics to treat any infections that may develop. Infusion reactions can happen as a side effect of this drug, which are allergic reactions that can occur during or shortly after the infusion of the medication. To minimize the risk of infusion reactions, your doctor will monitor you closely during and after the infusion and may give you medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids to prevent or treat any allergic reactions that may occur. Vectibix 100mg injection is not recommended during pregnancy as it causes harm to the unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. It is advised for both men and women to follow proper contraceptive methods during and for 3 months after the last dose of the drug.
Uses of Vectibix 100mg Injection
Therapeutic Effects of Vectibix 100mg Injection
Vectibix 100mg injection is a monoclonal antibody that attaches to a specific protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR) and induces the immune system’s fight against cancer. It interrupts the receptor signalling and thereby stops the cancer cells from spreading to other organs.
Interaction of Vectibix 100mg Injection with other drugs
Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Vectibix 100mg injection and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
More Information about Vectibix 100mg Injection
How to consume Vectibix 100mg Injection
The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. Vectibix 100mg injection is given as an injection into a vein (intravenous infusion) over a period of 60 minutes, every 14 days. Doses higher than 1000 mg should be administered over 90 minutes. The dose, route of administration, and frequency will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors.
Safety Advices for Vectibix 100mg Injection
Pregnancy
Vectibix 100mg injection is not recommended for pregnant women as it may cause fetal harm. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy during the treatment.
Breast Feeding
It is unknown whether Vectibix 100mg injection is safe during breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed without consulting your doctor.
Lungs
It is not known whether Vectibix 100mg injection can be administered to patients with lung problems. Consult your doctor if you have any lung diseases before starting the treatment.
Liver
It is unknown whether Vectibix 100mg injection can be given to patients with liver diseases. Inform your doctor if you have any liver problems.
Alcohol
Consuming alcohol may affect the effectiveness of Vectibix 100mg injection. Stop consuming alcohol if you are taking this medicine.
Driving
It is unsafe to drive vehicles or operate heavy machinery after taking Vectibix 100mg injection, it may cause dizziness and impair your concentration.
Side Effects of Vectibix 100mg Injection
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them.
Serious
- Acute Kidney failure
- Severe skin reactions
- Infusion-related reactions
- Swelling
- Severe diarrhea when used in combination treatment
- Lung problems
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Sensitivity to light
- Skin and eye disorders
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
Common
- Anaemia
- Sleeplessness
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or constipation
- Stomach pain
- Dry mouth
- Heartburn
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Headache
- Hair loss
- Back pain
Word of Advice
This medicine can cause skin or tissue damage. Apply sunscreen or wear a hat before you travel outside, as sunlight can cause further skin damage. If your skin reaction is severe, contact your doctor right away. It is necessary to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and also avoiding sharing personal items such as towels or utensils. Women of childbearing age should discuss family planning with their doctor before starting treatment with Vectibix 100mg injection, as this medication may harm a developing fetus.
FAQs
Q 1. Is it safe to use Vectibix 100mg injection during pregnancy?
Vectibix 100mg injection may cause harm to an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby.
Q 2. Is it safe to undergo a surgery during the treatment with Vectibix 100mg injection?
Vectibix 100mg injection is associated with increased risk of bleeding complications and poor wound healing. Hence it is suggested to avoid planning for surgery and tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures. Your healthcare provider will suggest stopping the medication a day prior to surgical procedure.
Q 3. What should you not take with Vectibix 100mg injection?
Vectibix 100mg injection may weaken your immune system, and taking live vaccines may increase the risk of infection. You should avoid getting live vaccines while using this drug.
Q 4. Do Vectibix 100mg injection cause any skin problems?
Yes, severe skin problems, including a rash, can occur with the use of Vectibix 100mg injection, and it's important to note that skin reactions, including an acneiform rash, are common with this drug use, this may lead to widespread infection and potentially be life-threatening. If you notice any signs of a severe skin reaction, such as a rash, blisters, or peeling skin, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.
Q 5. What are the contraindications of Vectibix 100mg injection?
Vectibix 100mg injection is contraindicated in individuals who have a history of severe allergic reactions to this drug or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in individuals with a history of severe infusion reactions or hypersensitivity reactions to other monoclonal antibodies.
Fact Box of Vectibix 100mg Injection
Molecule name: Panitumumab | Therapeutic class: Anticancer |
Pharmacological class: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors | Indications: Metastatic colorectal cancer |