Cetuximab Uses, Side Effects, and More

 Cetuximab

Brand name:- Erbitux , Lupitux 

Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to receptors on cancer cells. Thus it flags the cancer cells for destruction by the body's immune system.

Pharmacodynamic:-

Cetuximab is an anticancer agent that works by inhibiting the growth and survival of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing tumour cells with high specificity and higher affinity than epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α), which are natural ligands of EGFR. Cetuximab works by inhibiting the growth and survival of EGFR-positive tumours. In vitro, it promotes antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against certain human tumour types. On the contrary, cetuximab does not exert its anti-tumour effects on human tumour xenografts lacking EGFR expression.

Cetuximab potentiates the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutics and radiation therapy when used in combination. In human tumour xenograft models in mice, cetuximab and irinotecan synergistically inhibited the growth of orthotopic anaplastic thyroid carcinoma xenografts in vitro and in vivo. Cetuximab potentiated the in vitro anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of irinotecan and achieved 93% in vivo inhibition of tumour growth when combined with irinotecan, compared to 77% and 79% inhibition when cetuximab and irinotecan were used alone, respectively.

 Mechanism of action:- 

Cetuximab binds to the protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR). As a result of this binding, cancer cells no longer receive the signal that the cells need for growth and development. Thus, this medication prevents cancer cells from growing. 

Used:- 

Used in the treatment of head and neck cancer and cancer of colon and rectum.

Side effects:- 

Nausea, Headache, Vomiting, Conjunctivitis, Skin rash, Diarrhea, Infusion reaction, Decreased magnesium level in blood, Increased liver enzymes.

Dose:- As directed by your doctor