| Common Brands | Avastin |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
No Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Avastin is the brand name of bevacizumab, a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies, primarily used in cancer treatment. It is aimed at preventing angiogenesis, the process by which tumors build new blood vessels to sustain themselves.
Avastin works through a mechanism involving the inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that promotes the formation of blood vessels, thereby starving the tumor of essential nutrients and oxygen to prevent further growth.
Avastin is approved for use in colorectal cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, glioblastoma, and several other types of cancers.
Avastin is administered in a healthcare facility by intravenous infusion. It is not available by oral route of administration. Infusion: The typical administration interval is every two to three weeks. It will depend on the type of cancer being treated and the specific prescribed regimen
Avastin is administered alone or in combination with chemotherapy or other cancer treatments. Patients’ dosages and frequency depend on the type of cancer, the patient’s general health, and how well they tolerate the medication.
The infusions take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes to complete, but for some patients, it would take more than this period, particularly on the initial administrations.
Monitoring:
Because Avastin can have severe side effects, like hypertension or bleeding, it is mandatory that patients given this drug be closely monitored for signs of complications both during and subsequent to the infusion
Avastin works by specifically targeting a protein named VEGF, which promotes blood vessel growth. Once VEGF is bound to the surface receptors on endothelial cells, it causes those cells to proliferate and form new blood vessels.
This process is called angiogenesis, and it is necessary for tumor progression because tumors need a blood supply in order to receive nutrients and oxygen.
The mechanism of Avastin is to bind with VEGF and interfere with its attachment and subsequent action on the receptors. This could prevent angiogenesis resulting in tumor growth, thereby “starving” the tumor of its blood supply for growth and metastasis.
The blockade of this pathway helps in slowing down the progression of tumors, and concurrently improves the chemotherapy by targeting fast-replicating cells.
Like any drug, Avastin has side effects: some minor, some major. It is necessary to be aware of the side effects of this drug so that patients can immediately inform their healthcare provider when they see any of these symptoms appearing.
Most Common Side Effects:
Blood pressure elevation: Some patients experience increases in blood pressure that may be managed with antihypertension drugs.
Fatigue: Many patients find themselves tired or weak, thus making it strenuous to pursue routine activities.
Diarrhea: This is a commonly reported side effect in the gastrointestinal category.
Serious Side Effects:
Bleeding, bleeding disorders: Avastin can cause bleeding. Patients may experience signs of bleeding, such as coughing up blood, blood in stool, or unusual bruising.
Gastrointestinal perforation (perforation in the intestine): Avastin may cause a hole in the gastrointestinal tract in some cases. This may lead to severe infection or death.
Wound healing problems: Avastin can impair the healing process and make it more challenging for surgical incisions to heal correctly.
Pregnancy Category C: Avastin should be avoided during pregnancy since its effects may reach the fetus, causing harm. Avoid pregnancy during Avastin treatment, and consult a doctor for advice regarding birth control.
Hypertension: Because Avastin may cause a rise in blood pressure, patients on a history of hypertension need to have the blood pressure monitored during the treatment period.
Risks of Bleeding: The patients having a history of bleeding disorder or those on blood-thinning drugs should be closely followed during Avastin. It might raise the risk for serious bleeding, especially that in the gastrointestinal or respiratory system.
Proteinuria and Renal Function: Tests for protein in urine and renal function should be checked periodically while the patient is under treatment with Avastin, since it might lead to renal failure in few patients.
Dosage of Avastin depends on the nature of cancer to be treated. The most widely used dosing for most cancers is 5 mg/kg to 15 mg/kg of body weight administered every two to three weeks, but dosages could vary according to the specific treatment plan, patient’s general state of health, and any side effects from the therapy.
Example:
In metastatic colorectal cancer, the recommended dosage is 5 mg/kg every two weeks.
In non-small cell lung cancer, the usual dosage is 15 mg/kg once every three weeks.
Avastin should only be administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting because it is a prescription-only medication.
A comprehensive assessment of the patient should first be conducted to confirm whether Avastin is the best drug for his or her condition and whether there are no contraindications, such as uncontrolled hypertension, bleeding disorders, or certain types of cancer that do not respond to angiogenesis inhibitors.
Avastin is a prescription medication known as a monoclonal antibody that inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and is used to treat various types of cancer by preventing tumor blood vessel formation.
Avastin is commonly used for cancers such as colorectal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, kidney cancer, and glioblastoma, among others.
Avastin works by binding to VEGF, preventing it from activating its receptor, which reduces blood supply to tumors and helps inhibit their growth.
The dosage of Avastin varies based on the cancer being treated but is often administered intravenously every two to three weeks.
Yes, common side effects include high blood pressure, bleeding, headache, and gastrointestinal issues. Serious side effects can include blood clots, perforations in the gastrointestinal tract, and severe allergic reactions.
Yes, Avastin is often used in combination with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other targeted therapies to enhance its efficacy.
Avastin is classified as a pregnancy category D medication, which means it can cause harm to a fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Avastin is given via intravenous infusion, usually in a healthcare facility, and requires monitoring for possible adverse reactions during administration.
Avastin has been used off-label for conditions like macular degeneration and chronic migraine, although it is primarily approved for cancer treatment.
You should inform your doctor about any allergies, pre-existing health conditions (especially high blood pressure or bleeding disorders), and any other medications you are taking.
Treatment schedules can vary, but patients typically visit the hospital every two to three weeks for intravenous administration.
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Avastin itself but may occur if it is used in combination with chemotherapy agents that do cause hair loss.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you miss a scheduled dose to determine the best course of action.
Yes, Genentech, the manufacturer of Avastin, offers a patient assistance program for eligible patients who may need financial help accessing the medication.
While there are no strict dietary restrictions with Avastin, maintaining a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids can help manage side effects.
Many patients report improved quality of life due to reduced tumor burden and symptom relief, although side effects can impact individual experiences.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and signs of bleeding or infection is necessary throughout the treatment process.
A history of heart problems may affect your ability to take Avastin, so it’s crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
The length of treatment with Avastin varies by individual response and cancer type, with some patients receiving it for several months to years.
More information can be found on the official Avastin website, your healthcare provider, or resources like the American Cancer Society and the FDA.
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