Health Information
Olaratumab 認識化療藥品Olaratumab
Olaratumab 認識化療藥品Olaratumab
Trade name
Lartruvo®
What Olaratumab is and what it is used for?
- Olaratumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha (PDGFRα), which locates on the surface of cancer cells. This drug blocks the activation of PDGFRα, thus inhibiting cell proliferation and tumor growth.
- Olaratumab is used in combination with doxorubicin to treat soft tissue sarcoma that cannot be treated with surgery or radiation.
How Olaratumab is given?
- It is given as an infusion into a vein over 60 minutes.
What should I know while receiving Olaratumab?
- An allergic reaction may happen during or shortly after the infusion, causing fever and chills, breathing difficulties, swelling of throat or face, or hives. You may receive medications before olaratumab treatment to prevent the reactions. Tell your nurse right away if you feel unwell during an infusion.
- Do not receive this drug when you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Men and women should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after the treatment ends.
- Do not receive any kind of vaccination without doctor's approval.
- You will be checked regularly by your doctor to make sure you have enough blood cells and have adequate organ functions to receive this medicine. The timing of your treatment may be changed based on the test results or other side effects.
- Some of drugs may affect how olaratumab works. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
- The existing health problems may affect the use of olaratumab. You should let your doctor know if you have any other medical problems, especially if you have liver, kidney or heart problems.
Common side effects
- Hair loss
It may begin 2-3 weeks after your first treatment. Your hair will usually grow back after treatment has finished.
- Nausea and vomiting
Medicines may be given before the treatment to prevent it happening. Eating and drinking often in small amounts may reduce the discomfort.
- Mouth sores
Your doctor can give you medicines that help you ease the discomfort. Good mouth care will help prevent mouth sores.
- Muscle or joint pain
Talk to the doctor if the pain is bothering you, they can give you medicine to help ease pain.
- Weakness and fatigue
Try to pace yourself and rest as much as possible. Seek medical advice if fatigue does not go away when you rest and sleep.
- Skin rash
A rash can be itchy, red, or painful. Tell your doctor about any skin changes that you have, they can give you medicines and advices that help you feel better.
- Diarrhea or constipation
Talk to your doctor and ask for advice. Drinking plenty of water and dietary changes can improve the conditions.
- Changes in liver function
This is usually mild and may return to normal after treatment has ended. Seek medical help right away if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark or brown urine, or pain in abdomen, as these can be signs of liver toxicity.
Less common side effects
- Eye irritation
You might have dry eyes or infection in the eyes. Tell your doctor if this happens. Medicines can be given to relieve symptoms.
- Headache
Tell your doctor if this happens. Be sure to ask your doctor before taking any pain relievers.
- High blood sugar level
If you have diabetes, this drug may worse your condition. Your doctor will monitor your blood sugar and may prescribe medications if necessary.
- Swelling of lower legs or hands
Tell your doctor if your hands, arms, legs, or feet feel puffy or tender. The doctor may give medicines to reduce your symptoms and suggest ways to prevent fluid buildup.
More Information
- Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day can help make your recovery a smoother process.
- Alcohol and cigarettes may interfere with certain medicines or worsen side effects from chemotherapy treatment. It is wise to avoid alcohol and cigarette smoking during cancer treatment. If you have any problem about drinking alcohol and smoking, you should check with your doctor.
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