For treating cancer.
Brand Name(s): Vectibix
Generic Name: Panitumumab
Instructions
This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.
This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.
This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.
Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.
Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.
This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
Tell your doctor or nurse right away if fever, chills, severe dizziness, skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing develop while the medicine is being given. The medicine may need to be stopped or given at a slower rate.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.
Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.
This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.
Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.
Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 months after stopping treatment.
This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.
Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 2 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.
Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- pain in the abdomen
- constipation or diarrhea
- lack of energy and tiredness
- nausea and vomiting
- stomach upset or abdominal pain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- changes in memory, mood, or thinking
- confusion
- cough that does not go away
- dizziness
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- eye pain or redness
- fainting
- fever or chills
- fast or irregular heart beats
- signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
- menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
- mouth sores or irritation
- muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
- red, burning, or itchy skin
- seizures
- shortness of breath
- skin sores
- excessive thirst
- unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
- urinating less often
- blurring or changes of vision
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about PANITUMUMAB - INJECTION
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