Products
Ramucirumab is commercially available as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Cyramza). It was approved in many countries in 2015.
Structure and properties
Ramucirumab is a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody with a molecular mass of 147 kDa that binds to the extracellular domain of VEGFR-2. Ramucirumab is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Ramucirumab (ATC L01XC21) has antiangiogenic, antiproliferative, and antitumor properties. The effects are based on binding to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), which inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D) binding. This inhibits angiogenesis and endothelial cell growth. The half-life is 15 days on average.
Indications
- Advanced adenocarcinoma of the stomach or gastroesophageal junction.
- Lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Colorectal carcinoma (colon cancer)
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, weakness, neutropenia, leukopenia, diarrhea, nosebleeds, and hypertension.
