Avastin (Bevacizumab) for Kidney Cancer

Overview
Avastin is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in treating metastatic renal cell carcinoma (a type of advanced kidney cancer) when given in combination with interferon alfa. This combination is typically prescribed for people with kidney cancer that has spread beyond the kidney and cannot be removed with surgery. Avastin is also known by its drug name, bevacizumab.

Avastin is a biologic drug that works by inhibiting a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF plays a key role in the growth of new blood vessels that supply tumors. By blocking VEGF, Avastin is believed to help slow or stop the growth of tumors by limiting their blood supply.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Avastin is given as an intravenous infusion (through a vein) after dilution. For metastatic renal cell carcinoma, the recommended dosing schedule is once every two weeks when combined with interferon alfa. The drug should be administered exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Avastin include epistaxis (nosebleeds), headache, hypertension (high blood pressure), rhinitis (nasal inflammation), proteinuria (protein in the urine), altered taste, dry skin, bleeding, lacrimation disorder (tear production issues), back pain, and exfoliative dermatitis (peeling skin).

Rare but serious side effects may include gastrointestinal perforations (holes in the stomach or intestines), fistulas (abnormal openings between organs), severe wound healing complications, life-threatening bleeding, blood clots in arteries or veins, hypertensive crisis (dangerously high blood pressure), posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (a rare brain condition), nephrotic syndrome (kidney damage with protein in the urine), severe allergic reactions to infusions, heart failure, and ovarian failure. Avastin may also cause fetal harm, so effective birth control is advised during treatment.

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Label: Avastin — Bevacizumab Injection, Solution — DailyMed