Drug Guide

Generic Name

Bevacizumab-awwb

Brand Names Mvasi

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/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing 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.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.