Products
Cetuximab is commercially available as an infusion solution (Erbitux). It has been approved in many countries since 2003.
Structure and properties
Cetuximab is a recombinant chimeric (human/mouse) IgG1 monoclonal antibody. It is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Cetuximab (ATC L01XC06) has antitumor and antiangiogenic properties. It is a specific antibody against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is involved in cancer cell survival, vascularization, cell migration and metastasis. The half-life is in the range of 70 to 100 hours.
Indications
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck region.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy and lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include mucosal inflammation, hypomagnesemia, elevation of liver enzymes, acne-like rash, and infusion-related reactions such as fever, chills, and dizziness.
