What is the most important information I should know about cetuximab?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cetuximab or to mouse
protein.
Before receiving cetuximab, tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems,
congestive heart failure, breathing problems, or coronary artery disease. Tell your doctor if you
are also being treated with cisplatin (Platinol).
After you receive this medicine, your doctor will need to watch you for about an hour.
This is to make sure you do not have any serious side effects from the medicine.
Some people receiving a cetuximab injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when
the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel short of breath,
weak or dizzy, nauseated, itchy, or have wheezing, noisy breathing, or a hoarse voice during the
injection.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your
blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled
visits to your doctor. You may need to have blood tests for several weeks after your cetuximab
treatment has ended.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds) while
you are receiving cetuximab and for at least 2 months after your treatment ends. Cetuximab can
make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and
sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum
SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.
What is cetuximab?
Cetuximab is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows
their growth and spread in the body.
Cetuximab is used to treat cancers of the colon and rectum. It is also used to treat head
and neck cancer.
Cetuximab may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
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