G.1. Cetuximab (Erbitux, ImClone)
Mutation by chemicals, virus,
radiation etc. could cause the over-expression of EGFR. Resulting in
uncontrolled cell division and is associated with a number of cancers such as
lung cancer, colon cancer, and glioblastoma multiforme (the most common and
aggressive brain tumor).
Cetuximab is a recombinant mouse/human
(chimeric) monoclonal antibody that binds to the extracellular domain of the
EGFR, thereby blocking the activation of EGFR to achieve its anticancer effect.
It is used for the treatment of EGFR-expressing metastatic colon cancer after
failure of irinotecan (Irinotecan,
a semisynthetic analogue of the natural alkaloid camptothecin, is a drug used
for the treatment of colon cancer) and oxaliplatin-based regimens. Cetuximab is used in treating colon
cancer patients, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
Cetuximab is administered by infusion and may
cause serious infusion reactions including rapid onset of airway obstruction,
hypotension, shock, loss of consciousness, myocardial infarction, or cardiac
arrest. Cetuximab may also cause electrolyte depletion for months
after initiation of erbitux therapy.
© Jiajiu Shaw, 2019
Disclaimer: This blog is written solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other medical professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All contents posted are extracted from the book, "SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIOTHERAPY", prepared by Dr. Jiajiu Shaw, Dr. Frederick Valeriote, and Dr. Ben Chen.
