Vectibix IV

This medication is used alone to treat a certain type of cancer of the colon/rectum (cancer that expresses epidermal growth factor receptor-EGFR) that has spread to other parts of the body. It is used in patients who have not responded to other cancer chemotherapy treatment (e.g., fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin). It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Panitumumab should not be used with cancer chemotherapy drugs because of the increased risk for very serious (possibly fatal) side effects.

How to use Vectibix IV
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is usually given every 14 days or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your weight and response to treatment.

See also Warning section.
Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, constipation, abdominal pain, or growth of eyelashes may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: swelling ankles/feet, unusual weakness, irregular heartbeat, severe muscle spasms, mouth sores, eye redness/itching/irritation, watery eyes, menstrual changes.
Prolonged and/or severe diarrhea may lead to a loss of too much body water and minerals (dehydration). Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of the following: extreme thirst, decreased urination, dizziness, fainting.
Rarely, panitumumab has caused very serious lung disease. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of lung disease, including: cough, shortness of breath.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before receiving panitumumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: lung disease (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial pneumonitis), low magnesium/calcium blood levels.
Sunlight may worsen any skin reactions that may occur while you are receiving this drug. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Therefore, it is important to prevent pregnancy while using this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss using at least 2 reliable forms of birth control (e.g., condoms, birth control pills) while receiving this medication and for 6 months after the end of treatment. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.
Based on information from related drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk. Therefore, breast-feeding is not recommended while using this medication and for 2 months after the end of treatment. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor\'s approval.

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES:
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., magnesium/calcium levels) should be performed periodically during treatment and for 8 weeks after completion of treatment to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

MISSED DOSE:
For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.

STORAGE:
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-800-854-1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Information last revised October 2012. Copyright(c) 2012 First Databank, Inc.