Bevacizumab (Avastin)

How does this medicine work?
Bevacizumab (bev-uh-sih-zuh-mab) is a type of targeted medication known as a monoclonal antibody. These are laboratory produced and work to destroy cancer cells by locating and binding to them anywhere in the body.

How is the medicine given?
Bevacizumab is given as an infusion into a vein (IV) in the hospital or clinic.

What are the side effects?

Common:     

• Fever/chills
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Hair loss
• Constipation
• Upper respiratory infection
• High blood pressure
• Pain
• Weight loss
• Decreased blood counts

Occasional:

• Nose bleeds
• Rash
• Shortness of breath
• Electrolyte changes
• Blood clots
• Confusion
• Dehydration

Rare:

• Voice alterations
• Wound splitting open
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Infusion reactions

When should I call the clinic?

 Call the clinic if:

• Fever, bleeding, unusual bruising
• Cough, shortness of breath
• Sudden onset of abdominal pain, burning, numbness, tingling
• Delayed wound healing
• Seizure, loss of consciousness
• Confusion, hallucinations, memory loss
• Decreased urination
• Signs of an allergic reaction:
  
  • rash or hives
  • wheezing
  • trouble breathing - call 911

What else do I need to know?

• During the infusion you will have frequent vital signs done to monitor for any reaction.
• Bevacizumab can interfere with wound healing. It should not be given for 28 days before and 28 days after surgery.
• You may be asked to provide a urine sample to monitor your kidney function.
• You will have regular blood tests while receiving this medication. This is to make sure your heart, lungs, and kidneys are working properly.
• All caregivers should wear gloves when handling urine, stool, and vomit while your child is receiving chemotherapy and for 48 hours afterward. Urine, stool, and vomit can be safely disposed of in septic tanks and the sewer system.
• Any clothes or bed linens that are contaminated with urine, stool, or vomit should be washed separately from other laundry in hot water and detergent. Anyone handling the contaminated laundry should wear gloves.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call the oncology clinic or pharmacy.

Patient/Family Education
2525 Chicago Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404

Last reviewed Hem/Onc 6/2015. ©Copyright

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