Panitumumab Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Panitumumab, known by its brand name Vectibix, is a medication used to treat Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the drug, including its usage, dosing, potential side effects, and more. Remember to consult with one of our healthcare providers via telemedicine before making any adjustments to your medication.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Vectibix (Generic Name: Panitumumab)

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the scientific name of the medication, which is the same regardless of the brand under which it is sold. The generic name of the medication is placed in parentheses above.

Pharmacologic Category

Panitumumab belongs to a class of medications known as monoclonal antibodies, specifically the subclass of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Other EGFR inhibitors include Cetuximab and Erlotinib.

Dosing

Panitumumab is approved to treat the following disease in adults:

• Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: The usual dosage is 6 mg/kg, given as an intravenous infusion every 14 days until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. Always consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If you need consultation, our telemedicine service is readily available.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Panitumumab (Vectibix) comes as an injectable solution in two strengths: 100 mg/5 mL and 400 mg/20 mL.

Administration Instructions

Panitumumab is administered by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion over 60 minutes. Do not shake the solution, and it should be administered through a low protein binding 0.2/0.22 micron in-line filter.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While Panitumumab is effective in treating certain cancers, it may cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe, and it’s essential to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare provider. Our team is always available for a telemedicine consultation. Here are some potential side effects:

• Common: Skin rash, nail problems, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue
• Less common: Infusion reactions, electrolyte imbalance, eye problems, lung disease

Remember, this is not a complete list of side effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a situation in which a certain medication should not be used because it could be harmful to the patient. Panitumumab is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Panitumumab or any of its components, as it may cause severe allergic reactions.

Drug to Drug Interactions

At present, Panitumumab is not known to interact significantly with other medications. However, it is crucial to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking. For any concerns, our telemedicine service can assist you in understanding your medication plan.

Panitumumab in Pregnancy

It is uncertain whether Panitumumab is safe to take during pregnancy. It is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug, which means it could potentially harm an unborn baby. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice; our telemedicine service is available for consultation.

Panitumumab while Breastfeeding

It is not known if Panitumumab is excreted into human milk. Considering the potential adverse effects on the infant, breastfeeding should be avoided during Panitumumab therapy and for two months after the final dose. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding breastfeeding during treatment.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Panitumumab, using a GoodRx coupon and without insurance, is approximately $8,000. Prices may vary based on the pharmacy and your location.

Possible Alternatives

For Metastatic Colorectal Cancer, alternative treatments may include other medications, such as Bevacizumab or Cetuximab, surgery, radiation therapy, and changes in diet and exercise. Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine service is available for such consultations.

Recent Updates on Panitumumab Research

Recent studies have indicated that Panitumumab may be beneficial in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for the treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. Ongoing research is also exploring its use in other types of cancer. However, these are preliminary findings and more research is needed to fully understand the potential of Panitumumab. Remember, our telemedicine service is here to help you understand these findings in the context of your specific health situation.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.