Panitumumab
About Panitumumab
Panitumumab is a specialised medicine used to treat advanced bowel cancer (colorectal cancer) that has spread to other parts of the body. It is specifically designed for tumours that have a normal gene pattern known as RAS 'wild-type' and express a specific protein that helps cancer grow. This medicine is prescribed to slow down or stop the progression of the disease when other treatments have not worked or are being combined with it.
This medicine is given as a slow injection into a vein (an intravenous infusion) by a healthcare professional, usually once every two weeks. Because it is given in a clinical setting, your healthcare team will manage your schedule to ensure consistency. To support your body during treatment, it is highly recommended to stay well-hydrated, protect your skin from direct sunlight, and follow any specific dietary advice provided by your doctor.
Common side effects of Panitumumab mostly affect the skin, causing acne-like rashes, dryness, and itching, as well as low levels of magnesium in the blood. You must contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe skin peeling, painful blistering, a sudden cough, or shortness of breath. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely during and after each session to manage these effects.
Talk to your doctor before starting Panitumumab if you have a history of lung disease, severe skin conditions, or inflammatory bowel issues. Do not take this if you have had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to this medication in the past. Additionally, this medicine is not suitable for patients whose tumours have mutated RAS genes, especially when combined with certain chemotherapies, as it can cause harm.
Some medicines, including specific types of chemotherapy, can interact with Panitumumab and increase the risk of severe side effects. It is also important to avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can worsen skin dryness and overall treatment tolerance. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor immediately, as this medicine can harm an unborn baby.
Uses of Panitumumab
Medicinal Benefits
Panitumumab helps patients by directly targeting cancer cells, which can offer several real-world benefits during advanced cancer care:
- Slows Tumour Growth: By blocking growth signals, this medicine can help shrink tumours or stop them from spreading further.
- Controls Symptoms: Helping to limit tumour progression can reduce cancer-related pain and physical discomfort, improving your daily comfort.
- Works with Other Treatments: When used alongside chemotherapy, it can enhance the overall effectiveness of your cancer treatment plan.
Directions for Use
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication.
- Panitumumab will be administered by your doctor.
- Avoid self-administration.
Storage
Side Effects of Panitumumab
Common Side Effects (Usually mild to moderate):
- Acne-like skin rash, dryness, redness, or itching
- Nail changes, such as swelling or redness around the fingernails or toenails
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Nausea, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite
- Low magnesium and potassium levels in the blood
Serious Side Effects (Consult a doctor right away):
- Severe skin peeling, blistering, or signs of skin infection (such as oozing or severe pain)
- Sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, or a new dry cough
- Severe infusion reactions during or after the drip, including fever, chills, dizziness, or breathing difficulties
- Severe, persistent diarrhoea or severe stomach pain
- Changes in vision, eye pain, or severe redness in the eyes
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Inspect Your Skin Daily: Tell your healthcare team about any new skin redness, rash, or peeling immediately, as early treatment can prevent the rash from becoming severe.
- Complete Your Genetic Testing: Ensure your doctor has confirmed your tumour has 'wild-type' (normal) RAS genes before starting therapy, as this medicine is not effective for mutated RAS tumours.
- Avoid Sunbathing: Keep out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning beds entirely during treatment and for at least two months after your final dose.
- Watch for Eye Irritation: If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should switch to glasses, as this medicine can cause dry eyes and corneal inflammation.
- Monitor Your Infusion Site: Tell the nurse immediately if you feel pain, burning, or swelling around the injection site during your infusion.
Drug Interactions
- Certain Chemotherapy Regimens (e.g., Bevacizumab combinations): Combining Panitumumab with certain other cancer drugs may significantly increase the risk of severe skin toxicity, diarrhoea, and infections.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeDo not consume alcohol while on treatment with Panitumumab.
Pregnancy
unsafePanitumumab is not recommended for use during pregnancy. So, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy. You or your partner must use a reliable form of contraception for at least two months from the last dose of medicine to prevent pregnancy while taking these medications.
Breast Feeding
unsafeDo not breastfeed your baby during the period over which you are being treated with Panitumumab and for two months after the last dose.
Driving
cautionPanitumumab will be administered to hospitalized patients. Hence, driving is not recommended.
Liver
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of liver disease, inform your doctor before taking Panitumumab. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing Panitumumab.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of kidney disease, inform your doctor before taking Panitumumab. Your doctor may titrate the dose if required based on your condition.
Children
cautionThe safety and effectiveness of Panitumumab in children have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Protect Your Skin: Apply an alcohol-free, gentle moisturiser to your face and body daily, starting before your first treatment. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and protective clothing whenever you go outside, as this medicine makes your skin highly sensitive to sunlight.
- Eat Magnesium-Rich Foods: Since Panitumumab can lower your magnesium levels, incorporate foods like spinach, almonds, black beans, and avocados into your diet, as advised by your doctor.
- Stay Well-Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your kidneys function well and to manage dryness or mild diarrhoea.
- Avoid Harsh Skin Products: Do not use anti-acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as they can severely irritate the skin rash caused by this medicine.
Special Advise
- Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain tests to check your body's response to Panitumumab.
- Pregnancy testing is recommended prior to starting treatment with Panitumumab.
- Do not donate sperm throughout treatment and at least two months after treatment.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Cancer: Cancer is a genetic change in which the body's cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues. There are two types of cancer: benign (localized) and metastatic (spread to the whole body). Types of cancer include blood, lung, breast, etc. Cancer growth can be prevented by chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell therapy.
Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Metastasis means that the cancer cells have spread beyond the colon to other organs. This is also referred to as advanced colon cancer or stage IV colon cancer.
FAQs
Panitumumab is used to treat Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).
Panitumumab contains Panitumumab, which works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Thus, it prevents the cancer from spreading.
Attend all your doctor's appointments while receiving Panitumumab to ensure the therapy is effective. Regular blood tests and weight checks must be performed. While taking the Panitumumab, both men and women should use an effective means of contraception. Do not use any other medications unless prescribed by the doctor.
Magnesium and calcium levels in the blood may significantly fall as a result of Panitumumab. Laboratory testing may be recommended by your doctor both before and during treatment.
Panitumumab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion (a slow drip into a vein) by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about your infusion schedule.
Yes, skin rashes are a very common side effect. They often look like acne and can be itchy or dry. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about safe moisturisers to use during treatment.
This medicine only works effectively on tumours that have normal (wild-type) RAS genes. A genetic test ensures that Panitumumab is the right and safe choice for your specific cancer type. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
Drink plenty of clear fluids to stay hydrated and contact your healthcare provider. They can recommend safe anti-diarrhoea medications or adjust your treatment plan. Talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter remedies.
You must limit your sun exposure, as Panitumumab makes your skin highly sensitive to UV rays. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with a high SPF whenever you are outdoors. Talk to your pharmacist for product recommendations.
Yes, this medicine can cause your body to lose magnesium, which can lead to fatigue or muscle cramps. Your doctor will monitor your blood levels regularly and may prescribe magnesium supplements. Talk to your doctor if you experience muscle weakness.
No, this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant must use effective birth control during treatment and for at least two months after the last dose. Talk to your doctor about safe family planning options.
Severe skin reactions and lung inflammation are among the most serious risks. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience breathing difficulties, a sudden cough, or severe blistering and peeling of the skin. Talk to your doctor for a complete list of warning signs.
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