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See related Erbitux infusion information |
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Manufacturer |
Merck |
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Distributor |
DKSH |
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Contents |
Cetuximab |
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Indications |
In combination w/ chemotherapy or as a single agent in patients who have failed oxaliplatin- & irinotecan-base therapy for the treatment epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing, Kirsten rat sarcoma 2 viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer. In combination w/ radiation therapy for the treatment of locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head & neck. |
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Dosage |
Prior to infusion, premed w/ an antihistamine & a corticosteroid. Infusion once wkly, max infusion rate: 5 mL/min. Initial dose: 400 mg/m2 BSA over 120 min on 1st wk. Subsequent dose: 250 mg/m2 BSA over 60 min. Colorectal cancer In case of concomitant administration w/ other chemotherapeutic agents, they must not be administered earlier than 1 hr after cetuximab infusion. Squamous cell cancer of the head & neck Start 1 wk before radiation therapy & continue until the end of radiation therapy period. |
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Contraindications |
Known severe (grade 3 or 4; NCI-CTC) hypersensitivity reactions to cetuximab. |
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Special Precautions |
Monitor for infusion-related reactions (decrease infusion rate if mild or moderate infusion-related reaction occur). Patient w/ reduced performance status & preexisting cardiopulmonary disease. Discontinue if interstitial lung disease is diagnosed. Interrupt treatment in case of severe skin reactions (grade ≥3; NCI-CTC). Monitor serum electrolyte levels. Pregnancy & lactation. |
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Adverse Drug Reactions |
Hypomagnesemia, increase in liver enzyme levels. Skin reactions mainly as acne-like rash. Mild or moderate infusion-related reactions eg fever, chills, dizziness, dyspnoea. Mild to moderate mucositis which may lead to epistaxis. Severe infusion-related reactions usually occur w/in 1 hr of 1st infusion eg bronchospasm, urticaria, hypotension, loss of consciousness or shock. Headache, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, anorexia.
View ADR Monitoring Form |
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Drug Interactions |
5-FU.
View more drug interactions with Erbitux |
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Pregnancy Category (US FDA) |
Category C: Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the foetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. |
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Presentation/Packing |
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Form |
Packing |
Photo |
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Erbitux infusion |
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Erbitux 2 mg/1 mL x 50 mL |
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Manufacturer: |
Merck |
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Distributor: |
DKSH |
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