About cetuximab
Monoclonal antibody; EGFR inhibitor
Used for
- Certain head and neck cancers
- Certain colorectal cancers with specific tumor features
Usual adult dose
Usually 400 mg/m² once, then 250 mg/m² weekly; some regimens use 500 mg/m² every two weeks.
Common side effects
- Acne-like rash and dry skin
- Diarrhea, nausea, or fatigue
- Low blood magnesium
- Infusion reactions
Important warnings
- Serious or fatal infusion reactions can occur, especially with the first dose.
- Monitor blood magnesium, potassium, and calcium during treatment and after it ends.
- Severe skin reactions and lung inflammation can occur.
- Tumor testing and treatment regimen determine whether cetuximab is appropriate.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for two months afterward.
Breastfeeding
Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for two months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Platinum chemotherapy can increase low blood magnesium and other electrolyte problems.
- Combining with radiation or other cancer medicines may increase treatment-related toxicity.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.