Trade name

Erbitux^®

What Cetuximab is and what it is used for?

• Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on cells. EGFR is found in large amounts on the surface of some cancer cells, resulting in tumors growing more quickly. By attaching to the EGFR, this drug blocks EGFR from receiving growth signals, preventing further cancer growth and slowing cancer progression.
• Cetuximab only works in cancers with a normal RAS gene and your doctor will perform a RAS gene test to determine if this drug is right for you.
• Cetuximab can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat patients with head and neck cancer or colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

How Cetuximab is given?

• It is given as an infusion into a vein over 1 or 2 hours.

What should I need to know while receiving Cetuximab?

• An allergic reaction may happen during or shortly after the infusion, causing rash, dizziness, fever and chills, swelling of hands, feet or face, breathing difficulties, and a drop in blood pressure. Tell your nurse right away if you feel unwell during an infusion.
• Men and women should use effective contraception and for at least 2 months after the treatment ends.
• Do not breastfeed and for 2 months after treatment has ended.
• Do not receive any kind of vaccination without doctor's approval.
• You will have regular blood tests to check that you have enough blood cells and have adequate organ functions to receive this drug. The timing and dosing of your treatment may be changed based on the test results or other side effects.
• The existing health problems may affect the use of cetuximab. You should let your doctor know if you have any other medical problems, especially heart disease, lung or breathing problems.
• There are many drugs may affect how cetuximab works. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Common side effects

• Low white blood cell count

You are at greater risk of having an infection when they are low. Try to stay away from crowds or people with colds and wash your hands often. Tell your doctor right away if you get a fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or burning with urination.

• Skin reactions

Symptoms include redness, itching, or acneiform rash. The severity of skin reaction may increase if combining cetuximab with radiation therapy. Tell your doctor about any skin changes that you have. Your doctor can give you medicines and advices that help you feel better.

• Nail changes

The skin around your nails may become pain and redness, and nails may also become brittle or crack. The nails usually grow back slowly once the treatment is over.

• Loss of appetite

Try to eat in small quantities and have frequent meals. If your appetite does not get any better after a few days, tell your doctor.

• Diarrhea or constipation

Talk to your doctor and ask for advice. Drinking plenty of water and dietary changes can improve the symptoms.

• Nausea or vomiting

Medicines may be given before the treatment to prevent it happening. Eating and drinking often in small amounts may reduce the discomfort.

• Mouth sores

Your doctor may give you medicines that help you feel better. Good mouth care will help prevent mouth sores.

• Weakness and fatigue

Try to pace yourself and rest as much as possible. Seek medical advice if fatigue does not go away when you rest and sleep.

• Difficulty sleeping

Talk to your doctor if this bothers you. Treatments usually include lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both.

• Headache

Talk to your doctor if this bothers you. Be sure to ask your doctor before taking any pain relievers.

• Elevated liver enzymes

This is usually mild and may return to normal after treatment has ended. Seek medical help right away if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark or brown urine, or pain in abdomen, as these can be signs of liver toxicity.

Less common side effects

• Eye irritation

You might experience dry eyes or infection in the eyes. Tell your doctor if this happens. Medicines can be given that help.

• Cough or trouble breathing

Tell your doctor if you develop difficulty breathing with wheezing and coughing or there is any existing breathing problems get worse.

• Electrolyte imbalance (magnesium levels)

You may feel weak or numb, have muscle spasms, or twitch. Your heart may beat fast or blood pressure may change. Your doctor will monitor your electrolyte levels and may prescribe specific electrolytes to be given by injection or taken by mouth.

• Heart problems

Contact a doctor right away if you notice that you have an abnormal heartbeat or have pain or tightness in your chest. It is important to get them checked by a doctor.

More Information

• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day can help make your recovery a smoother process.
• Alcohol and cigarettes may interfere with certain medicines or worsen side effects from chemotherapy treatment. It is wise to avoid alcohol and cigarette smoking during cancer treatment. If you have any problem about drinking alcohol and smoking, you should check with your doctor.
• Your skin may more sensitive to sunlight and may burn more easily during treatment with cetuximab. You should stay out of the sun. If you must go out in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.