cetuximab

What is the most important information I should know about cetuximab?

Side effects may occur when this medicine is injected into your vein. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, feverish, itchy, or short of breath during the infusion.

Cetuximab can have long-lasting effects on your body. You may need frequent medical tests for at least 8 weeks after your last dose.

What is cetuximab?

Cetuximab is used to treat cancers of the colon and rectum. It is also used to treat head and neck cancer.

Cetuximab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive cetuximab?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart rhythm problems;
• lung disease or a breathing disorder;
• congestive heart failure;
• coronary artery disease (clogged arteries); or
• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood).

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to red meat, or if you've ever been bitten by a tick. If so, you may be more likely to have certain reactions during or shortly after injection of this medicine.

How is cetuximab given?

Cetuximab is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 2 hours to complete. You may be given other medications to help prevent serious side effects or allergic reaction.

Cetuximab is often used in combination with other cancer medications and/or radiation treatments. You may receive another cancer medicine 1 hour after your cetuximab infusion.

Cetuximab is usually given until your body no longer responds to the medication. 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.

What happens if I miss a dose?

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while receiving cetuximab?

What are the possible side effects of cetuximab?

• eye pain or redness, puffy eyelids, drainage or crusting in your eyes, vision problems, or increased sensitivity to light;
• a new or worsening cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath;
• an acne-like skin rash or any severe skin rash;
• redness or crusting around your hair follicles;
• redness, warmth, or puffiness under your skin;
• slow heartbeats, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop);
• blisters or ulcers in your mouth, red or swollen gums, trouble swallowing;
• low white blood cell counts --fever, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough, trouble breathing; or
• signs of an electrolyte imbalance --increased thirst or urination, constipation, muscle pain or weakness, leg cramps, numbness or tingling, feeling jittery, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, or a choking feeling.

Common side effects may include:

• itching or rash;
• changes in your fingernails or toenails;
• dry, cracked, or swollen skin;
• headache;
• diarrhea; or
• infection.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect cetuximab?

Other drugs may affect 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.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about cetuximab.