Cetuximab

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Monoclonal Antibody	Erbitux®	Cancer-related

Cetuximab - What is it for

Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody which targets a certain type of protein on the surface of cancer cells to control their growth.

During infusion

Please alert the nurse if you experience any of the following symptoms during infusion:

Other possible side effects

Acne-like rash may appear within the first 2 weeks of treatment, most frequently on the face, upper chest and back. The rash tends to resolve over time following cessation of treatment.
Avoid or limit sun exposure as sunlight can exacerbate skin reactions.
Dry skin, itch and nail changes
Diarrhea or constipation
Fatigue

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Skin rash or unusual redness
Nail infection (red, swollen and tender nail folds, with or without pus)
Excessive diarrhea persisting more than 24 hours or unresolved with anti-diarrheal medication
Signs of low magnesium levels (e.g. severe fatigue, irritability, numbness or tingling sensation, cramps, abnormal heart beat)
Shortness of breath, worsening or persistent cough