Avelumab

Uses

Avelumab is used in the treatment of urinary bladder cancer.

How it Works

How Avelumab works Avelumab is a type of immunotherapy that activates the body's immune system to combat cancer cells. It specifically targets and blocks a protein called PD-L1 found on the surface of certain immune cells. By blocking PD-L1, Avelumab enhances the ability of immune cells to locate and destroy cancer cells.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Avelumab include fatigue, musculoskeletal pain (bone, muscle, or joint), diarrhea, nausea, infusion site reaction, rash, decreased appetite, peripheral edema, urinary tract infection, high blood pressure, mucositis, hand-foot syndrome, voice changes, decreased levels of thyroid hormones, liver toxicity, coughing up blood, breathlessness, abdominal pain, and headache.

Expert Advice

Do not receive any immunization or vaccination without your doctor’s approval while taking Avelumab.
You may be at risk of infection; therefore, try to avoid crowds or individuals with colds.
Immediately report fever or any other signs of infection to your health care provider.
Inform your doctor immediately if you notice signs or symptoms such as:

Skin rash
Itchy skin
A rash with tiny spots and bumps
Reddening of the skin

To reduce nausea:

Take anti-nausea medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Eat small, frequent meals.

Use contraceptives and do not conceive a child (get pregnant) while taking Avelumab.
Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, are recommended.
Avoid sun exposure: