Products
Necitumumab was approved as an infusion solution in the United States in 2015 and in the EU in 2016 (Portrazza). Necitumumab has not yet been registered in many countries.
Structure and properties
Necitumumab is a recombinant human IgG1 monoclonal antibody. It is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Necitumumab has antitumor, antiproliferative, and antiangiogenic properties. The effects are based on binding to human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF). This inhibits the binding of ligands to EGFR. EGFR is involved in cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis and metastasis. The half-life of necitumumab is approximately 14 days.
Indications
For the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (squamous cell carcinoma, combination therapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
Necitumumab is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include a rash and hypomagnesemia.
