Drug Notes

Panitumumab (By injection)

Panitumumab (pan-i-TOOM-ue-mab)

Treats cancer of the colon or rectum.

Brand Name(s):

Vectibix

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein. This medicine needs to be given slowly, so the needle will remain in place for at least an hour.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Men and women should use an effective form of birth control for 6 months after treatment ends.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or lung problems.
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Infusion reactions
  • Lung problems
• This medicine can cause serious skin reactions, and sunlight can make this worse. Take precautions while you are receiving this medicine and for 2 months after the last dose. Wear hats and use sunscreen when you are outside. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Cough, shortness of breath
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate, rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Dry, itchy, or cracking skin, acne, fingernail changes or swelling around your nails
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, uneven heartbeat
• Eye redness or pain, watery eyes, vision changes
• Fever, chills, trouble breathing, chest tightness, faintness
• Severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Unusual tiredness or weakness, muscle cramps, confusion

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017