Bevacizumab

Last updated 30 Sep 2024 | 10:39 AM (UTC)

Bevacizumab Uses

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

How Bevacizumab works

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

Common side effects of Bevacizumab

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, Rectovaginal fistula

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Medicine brands for Bevacizumab

Mylan Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd - A Viatris Company

₹13451 to ₹35120

2 variant(s)

Advamab

Alkem Laboratories Ltd

RPG Life Sciences Ltd

₹18200 to ₹52500

2 variant(s)

Bevacirel

Reliance Life Sciences

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd

₹10000 to ₹30000

2 variant(s)

Bevnexxa

Celon Laboratories Ltd

₹10800 to ₹39000

2 variant(s)

Expert advice for Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab is an effective, first-line option when used together with other medicines for certain types of cancers such as colorectal, lung, cervical, and kidney cancers.
Bevacizumab is given as an infusion. Your doctor or nurse will monitor you for signs of an infusion reaction such as high blood pressure and trouble breathing.
It can lower your wound healing ability. Inform your doctor that you are taking this medication before undergoing any surgical procedure.
It can increase the risk of bleeding. Inform your doctor if you notice any unusual bleeding or bleeding that doesn't stop easily.
Your doctor may regularly check your blood pressure and levels of protein in your urine while you are on Bevacizumab.

Frequently asked questions for Bevacizumab

Q. What kinds of cancer can Bevacizumab be used for ?

Bevacizumab is approved for the treatment of cancer of the colon or rectum that has spread to other parts of the body. It must be given along with chemotherapy. Other types of cancers that it helps with includes certain types of lung cancer, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and glioblastoma (a type of brain tumor).

Q. How is Bevacizumab given?

Bevacizumab is given as an infusion. That means you get it through a small needle in your vein or through a port, which is a device placed under your skin. Your doctor will decide your dose and duration and will monitor you for signs of an infusion reaction.

Q. How long can I take Bevacizumab for?

You keep taking Bevacizumab as long as your disease is controlled and your side effects are manageable. Your doctor will determine whether you should stop taking Bevacizumab. If your cancer progresses during this initial treatment, talk to your doctor if a different chemotherapy may be an option.

Q. How Bevacizumab works differently from chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy attacks fast-growing cells, like cancer cells. In contrast, the purpose of Bevacizumab is to prevent the growth of new blood vessels that feed tumors. This causes the tumour to shrink, or to stop growing.

Q. Does a person taking Bevacizumab still need chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is still needed along with taking Bevacizumab. It makes chemotherapy work better.