bevacizumab, a DNA-derived monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to and inhibits activity of human vascular endothelial growth factor to reduce microvascular growth and inhibition of metastatic disease progression. ▪ INDICATIONS: This drug is used to treat metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum in combination with 5-FU IV. It is also being investigated for use as an adjunctive in breast and renal cancer. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Adverse effects of this drug include hypertension, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, anorexia, colitis, stomatitis, proteinuria, urinary frequency and urgency, bilirubinemia, hypokalemia, dyspnea, and upper respiratory tract infection. Life-threatening side effects include deep vein thrombosis, hypertensive crisis, GI hemorrhage, nephritic syndrome, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, exfoliative dermatitis, and hemorrhage. Common side effects include asthenia and dizziness.
