Health Information
Monoclonal Antibodies for Cancer Treatment
What To Think About
Bevacizumab and other medicines that block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may cause high blood pressure. Your doctor will check and closely watch your blood pressure, especially when you first start taking bevacizumab.
Cetuximab may cause serious side effects while it is being given. So people who get this medicine will be watched closely while they are getting the medicine and for at least 1 hour afterward.
Panitumumab may cause serious lung or skin problems. Your doctor will check and closely watch your calcium and magnesium levels during and after taking this medicine. Women who take this medicine may not be able to get pregnant.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant. If you need to use this medicine, talk to your doctor about how you can prevent pregnancy.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) 
(What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you understand this medication.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 5, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Kenneth Bark, MD - Surgery, Colon and Rectal |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
