Bevacizumab

Drug Name: Bevacizumab

Drug Class: It is a targeted therapy drug

Available under the brand name – Avastin

What Is It Prescribed For?

• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Metastatic lung cancer
• Recurrent Glioblastomas (brain tumor)
• Metastatic kidney cancer
• Certain types of cancers of the ovaries and cervix
• Advanced Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer that has spread and can’t be removed by surgery).

How Is It Given? 

It is given as an infusion into a vein or through a port (a device placed under your skin) once every 2 or 3 weeks. It takes 90 minutes to receive the first dose. Later it may take 30 – 60 minutes for the remaining doses.

What Are Common Side Effects?

You may face some of these side effects:

• High blood pressure
• Generalized weakness
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding
• Back pain
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Taste change
• Dry skin
• Watery eyes

Your doctor can prescribe medication to control these side effects. Bevacizumab may also cause other side effects. If you face any unusual or serious problems, inform your doctor immediately.

Who Should Avoid Taking This Drug?

Tell your doctor if you are undergoing surgery. It should not be given for 28 days before or after surgery and until surgical wounds are fully healed.

How Much Does This Drug Cost?

Available in 100mg and 400mg vials. Depending on the brand, the cost of Bevacizumab 100mg can range between INR 9000 – INR 35,000 per vial.