About cetuximab
EGFR-blocking monoclonal antibody
Used for
- Treats certain head and neck cancers.
- Treats some colorectal cancers that lack RAS mutations.
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 other skin reactions
- Infusion reactions, sometimes severe
- Diarrhea
- Low magnesium and other electrolyte changes
Important warnings
- Severe allergic or infusion reactions can occur, especially with the first dose.
- Monitor skin reactions, infections, and blood magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
- Do not use for colorectal cancer with RAS mutations.
- Can cause serious lung inflammation; breathing symptoms require prompt assessment.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for two months afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for two months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Combining with oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in colorectal cancer may worsen outcomes, particularly with RAS-mutated tumors.
- Other anticancer medicines can increase toxicity; regimen-specific monitoring is needed.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.