Trade name

Vectibix^®

What Panitumumab is and what it is used for?

• Panitumumab is a monoclonal antibody which targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on cells. EGFR is found in large amounts on the surface of some cancer cells, resulting in tumors growing more quickly. By attaching to the EGFR, this drug blocks EGFR from receiving growth signals, preventing further cancer growth and slowing cancer progression.
• Panitumumab only works in cancers with a normal RAS gene. Your doctor will perform a RAS gene test to determine if this drug is right for you.
• Panitumumab can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

What Panitumumab is given?

• This drug is given as an infusion into a vein over 60-90 minutes.

What should I know while receiving Panitumumab?

• An infusion reaction may happen during or shortly after the infusion, causing rash, dizziness, fever and chills, headache, breathing difficulties, and sick feeling in stomach. 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 6 months after the treatment ends.
• Do not receive any kind of vaccination without doctor's approval.
• You will have regular blood tests to check that you have enough blood cells and have adequate organ functions to receive this drug. The timing of your treatment may be changed based on the test results or other side effects.
• The existing health problems may affect the use of panitumumab. You should let your doctor know if you have any other medical problems, especially if you have lung or breathing problems.
• There are many drugs may affect how panitumumab works. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Common side effects

• Skin reactions

Symptoms include redness, itching, or acneiform rash. Tell your doctor about any skin changes that you have. Your doctor can give you medicines and advices that help you feel better.

• Nail changes

The skin around your nails may become pain and redness, and nails may also become brittle or crack. The nails usually grow back slowly once the treatment is over.

• Nausea or vomiting

Medicines may be given before the treatment to prevent it happening. Eating and drinking often in small amounts may reduce the discomfort.

• Loss of appetite

Try to eat in small quantities and have frequent meals. If your appetite doesn't get any better after a few days, talk to the doctor.

• 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.

• Diarrhea

Talk to your doctor and ask for advice. Drinking plenty of water and dietary changes can improve diarrhea.

• 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.

• Difficulty sleeping

Talk to your doctor if this bothers you. Treatments usually include lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both.

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.

• Lung or breathing problems

Tell your doctor if you develop difficulty breathing with wheezing and coughing or there is any existing breathing problems get worse.

• Electrolyte imbalance (such as magnesium, potassium levels)

Symptoms are different with each salt. You may feel weak or numb, have muscle spasms, or twitch. Your heart may beat fast or blood pressure may change. Your doctor will monitor your electrolyte levels and may prescribe specific electrolytes to be given by injection or taken by mouth.

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.
• Your skin may more sensitive to sunlight and may burn more easily during treatment. You should stay out of the sun. If you must go out in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.