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.
Cetuximab
- Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications
What side effects can
Cetuximab
cause?
During infusion
Please alert the nurse if you experience any of the following symptoms during infusion:
- Itch, rashes, fever, chills and rigors, shortness of breath
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