Drug Guide
Bevacizumab-awwb
Classification
Therapeutic: Antineoplastic agent
Pharmacological: Monoclonal antibody (vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor)
FDA Approved Indications
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer
- Glioblastoma (recurrent) Monitor the official FDA label for the most current approved indications as they may expand or change.
Mechanism of Action
Bevacizumab-awwb binds to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), preventing it from activating VEGF receptors on the surface of endothelial cells, thereby inhibiting angiogenesis necessary for tumor growth.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Administer as an infusion at the recommended dosage (e.g., 5-15 mg/kg every 2-3 weeks), depending on the specific indication and protocol.
Pediatric: Use is generally limited; consult specific guidelines for pediatric dosing.
Geriatric: No specific adjustments provided; consider increased risk of adverse effects in elderly.
Renal Impairment: No specific dose adjustment indicated; monitor closely.
Hepatic Impairment: No specific dose adjustment indicated; use with caution.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Not applicable (administered IV).
Distribution: Extensively distributed in the vascular and extracellular compartments.
Metabolism: Broken down by proteolytic enzymes into small peptides and amino acids.
Excretion: Eliminated via catabolism; not through urine or feces.
Half Life: Approximately 20 days (varies).
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to bevacizumab, other humanized monoclonal antibodies, or excipients.
Precautions
- Risk of bleeding, hypertension, impaired wound healing, gastrointestinal perforation, and wound dehiscence.
- Use with caution in patients with prior wound healing complications or recent surgery.
- Monitor blood pressure and for signs of bleeding or thromboembolism.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Hypertension (Common)
- Proteinuria (Common)
- Fatigue (Common)
- Diarrhea (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Gastrointestinal perforation (Rare)
- Hemorrhage (including major bleeding) (Rare)
- Wound healing complications (Rare)
- Thromboembolism (Rare)
- Hypertensive crisis (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other agents that increase bleeding risk, anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and signs of bleeding or wound healing issues.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for bleeding
- Impaired skin integrity
- Ineffective tissue perfusion.
Implementation: Administer IV infusion as ordered, monitor infusion site and patient response, assess for adverse effects.
Evaluation: Monitor for expected therapeutic effects and adverse reactions; adjust therapy as needed.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any signs of bleeding, unusual pain, or wound issues immediately.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Avoid invasive procedures or trauma when possible.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Gastrointestinal perforation, wound healing issues, hemoptysis, and severe bleeding.
- Risk of arterial thromboembolic events.
Genetic Factors: None specific.
Lab Test Interference: Can cause proteinuria, monitor with urinalysis.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Bleeding, hypertension, or infusion reactions.
Treatment: Supportive care, maintain airway, breathing, and circulation; manage symptoms accordingly.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
Stability: Stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature during administration; follow manufacturer guidelines.