It's normal to feel a great burden when your doctor tells you or someone you know has lung cancer. It's important to be fully informed about the treatment you're receiving at a time like this. Today, we're going to talk about a special injection for lung cancer called Amivantamab. The brand name of this drug is Rybrevant. Let's take a look at what it is, how it works, and what you need to be aware of when taking this treatment.
What is Amivantamab?
Simply put, this is a drug that is used to treat lung cancer. It works by helping our body's own immune system to stop or slow down the spread of cancer cells. It's a type of drug called
a monoclonal antibody . This means that it has been specially designed in a laboratory to attack only specific targets, such as cancer cells. It works like a homing missile.
Things to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before starting this treatment,
it is extremely important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. In particular, you should definitely tell them about these things.
- If you have any eye disease.
- If you have other lung diseases.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this Amivantamab medicine, any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are trying to get pregnant or are already pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
This information will be very helpful to your doctor in creating an accurate treatment plan.
How do you get this medicine?
This is not a pill or capsule that you can take home. This is
an injection that is injected into a vein . Therefore, it is given in a hospital or clinic under the full supervision of a medical team. Since this medicine is given under the supervision of a doctor, the chance of overdose is very low. However, if you think that something has happened to you, immediately call
the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Since this medicine is given at the hospital, you do not need to store it at home.
What do you do if you miss a dose of medication?
It is very important to get your vaccinations on time during this treatment. If you are unable to attend the hospital on your scheduled date, please notify your medical team immediately and arrange a new appointment.
Do not skip any appointments for any reason. Things to consider during treatment
A little care is required on your part while taking this medicine.
- Medical supervision: Throughout your treatment, your doctor will closely monitor your condition and may order blood tests to check for any changes in your blood.
- Take care of your eyes: If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision, eye pain, or redness, tell your medical team immediately .
- Protect yourself from the sun: This medicine may make your skin a little sensitive to the sun. So avoid going out in the sun as much as possible. If you must go out, wear clothing that covers your skin well, use sunscreen , and do not use tanning beds for any reason.
- Be careful of infections: This medicine may lower your body's immunity, so you are more likely to get infections . If you have symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat , or a cold , don't self-medicate and call your doctor for advice. Also, try to stay away from people who are sick.
Special awareness about pregnancy and breastfeeding
This is a very important point. If you are hoping to get pregnant, or if you have even the slightest suspicion that you are pregnant, you should definitely talk to your doctor about it.
Taking this medicine during pregnancy or within 3 months of taking the last dose can cause serious birth defects in the baby.
Therefore, it is important to take a pregnancy test before starting treatment to make sure you are not pregnant. It is essential to use a reliable form of contraception during treatment and
for 3 months after stopping the medication. Talk to your doctor for more information. Also,
avoid breastfeeding completely while taking this medication and for 3 months after stopping it..
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, Amivantamab can cause some side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
Side effects that should be reported to your medical team immediately Side effects that should be reported to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome
| Side Effect | Description |
|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Difficulty breathing | Dry cough, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath for no reason. |
| Eye problems | Eye pain, redness, inflammation, discharge from the eyes, blurred vision, or decreased vision. |
| Infusion reactions | Chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, or feeling dizzy. |
| Serious skin problems | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (including inside the mouth). |
| Body pain | Pain in bones, joints, or muscles. |
| Constipation | Difficulty going to the toilet. |
| Fatigue | Feeling more tired than usual . |
| Nail infections | Redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around the nail. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Mouth or throat sores | Sores inside the mouth or throat with pain, redness, and swelling. |
| Body swelling | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, please tell your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Amivantamab is a special vaccine that treats lung cancer and helps the body's immune system.
- This is given through a vein in a hospital, so you don't need to store it at home.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially eye and lung problems.
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding completely during treatment and for 3 months after stopping. Use reliable birth control.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as a serious allergic reaction, difficulty breathing , eye pain , or severe skin problems.
- Protect your skin from the sun during treatment.
- It is very important to take your medication on time. If you miss a dose, inform the medical team in advance.
Amivantamab, lung cancer, cancer drug, monoclonal antibody, cancer treatment, Rybrevant
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