Bevacizumab

Uses

Bevacizumab is used in the treatment of colon and rectal cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, kidney cancer, brain tumors, and non-small cell lung cancer.

How it Works

How Bevacizumab Works Bevacizumab is an anti-angiogenic medication. It works by blocking a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This action inhibits the formation of blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to cancerous cells.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Bevacizumab include exfoliative dermatitis, high blood pressure, nosebleeds, protein in urine, decreased appetite, electrolyte imbalance, peripheral sensory neuropathy, breathlessness, thromboembolism, wound healing complications, ovarian failure, decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), low blood platelets, mucosal inflammation, abscess, cellulitis, hypersensitivity, and rectovaginal fistula.

Expert Advice

Bevacizumab is an effective first-line treatment option when used in combination with other medications for certain types of cancers, including:

Colorectal cancer
Lung cancer
Cervical cancer
Kidney cancer

Bevacizumab is administered as an infusion.
Your doctor or nurse will monitor you for signs of an infusion reaction, which may include:

High blood pressure
Trouble breathing

Bevacizumab can impair your wound healing ability.
Inform your doctor that you are taking this medication before undergoing any surgical procedures.
This medication may increase the risk of bleeding.
Notify your doctor if you experience any unusual bleeding or bleeding that does not stop easily.
Your doctor may regularly check your blood pressure and protein levels in your urine while you are on Bevacizumab.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

How is Bevacizumab administered?

Bevacizumab is administered via infusion, either through a small needle in a vein or through a port placed under the skin. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration while monitoring for infusion reactions.

What types of cancer can Bevacizumab treat?

Bevacizumab is approved for treating metastatic colon or rectal cancer in combination with chemotherapy. It is also effective for certain lung cancers, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and glioblastoma.

How does Bevacizumab differ from chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cancer cells, whereas Bevacizumab works by inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors, leading to tumor shrinkage or growth cessation.

What is the duration of Bevacizumab treatment?

You can continue taking Bevacizumab as long as your disease remains controlled and side effects are manageable. Your doctor will assess whether to continue or discontinue treatment, especially if cancer progression occurs.

Is chemotherapy still necessary when taking Bevacizumab?

Yes, chemotherapy is required alongside Bevacizumab, as it enhances the effectiveness of the chemotherapy.

;