It is difficult to put into words what it feels like to be diagnosed with cancer. However, with the advancement of modern medicine, we now have very powerful weapons to fight cancer. There are certain drugs that specifically target and destroy cancer cells. Today, we are going to talk about one such specific treatment. The name of this drug is Amivantamab.
What is Amivantamab?
Simply put, Amivantamab (Rybrevant, the brand name given by the pharmaceutical company) is a vaccine used to treat certain types of lung cancer. It's not a typical drug. It's called a 'bispecific antibody.'
Now you may be wondering what this 'bi-specific' means. Think of it like a special key that fits two locks at the same time. There are special proteins in our body that help cancer cells grow and divide. This Amivantamab vaccine can recognize two such proteins at once, bind to them and stop their function. It's like hitting the target. Because of this, this treatment can minimize damage to healthy cells and control the growth of cancer cells.
This is not like regular chemotherapy. This is a more targeted treatment. That's why it's so effective for some types of cancer.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this treatment
Your doctor will need to know the full details of your health condition before deciding if this treatment is right for you. So, be honest and discuss these matters with your doctor.
- Eye conditions: If you currently have any eye conditions (e.g. cataracts, glaucoma), please tell us about them.
- Lung diseases: Tell us about any other lung diseases you have (in addition to cancer).
- Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to this Amivantamab medication or any other medication, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy: It is essential to tell your doctor if you are pregnant , planning to become pregnant , or suspect you are pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child , please also inform us.
Based on this information, the doctor will plan to treat you safely.
How is the medicine given?
This is not a medicine that you can take home. Amivantamab is a medicine that is injected into a vein . That means it is given into the body like saline. This treatment is given by trained health care staff in a hospital or clinic. So there is nothing to worry about.
What if I accidentally take too much medicine?
This is given in a hospital setting, so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you think something has happened, inform the medical staff immediately. In general, in the event of an overdose of any medicine, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or you should go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Most importantly: This medicine is for you only. Your doctor will determine the right dose for you based on your medical condition, body weight, and many other factors. Therefore, never share this medicine with anyone else.
Things to consider during treatment
It is important to pay attention to changes in your body while taking this medication.
Protect yourself from the sun.
This medicine may make your skin a little more sensitive to sunlight. This means that your skin may burn and turn red more quickly. Therefore:
- Avoid going out in the sun as much as possible.
- If you are going to be in the sun, wear long-sleeved clothing and a hat.
- Use a good sunscreen .
- Do not use things like sun lamps and tanning beds.
Be careful of infections.
This medicine may have a slight effect on the body's immune system. Therefore, the risk of developing infections may be slightly increased. If you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, or cough , do not self-medicate and immediately call your doctor for advice. Try to stay away from people who are sick.
Changes in the eyes
Some people may experience eye problems during treatment with Amivantamab. If you experience blurred vision, dry eyes, itching, or pain in your eyes , do not ignore it and tell your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
This is very important.
- Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping treatment .
- If you get pregnant during this time, the baby in the womb could be seriously harmed .
- Also, avoid breastfeeding your baby during treatment and for 3 months after stopping . Ask your doctor for more information about this.
Side effects of the medicine
Like any medicine, Amivantamab can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them. However, it is important to be aware of them.
| Amivantamab side effects | |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, inform your doctor as soon as possible. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Eye problems | Blurred vision, vision changes, dry eyes, itchy eyes, eye pain. |
| Breathing difficulties | Difficulty breathing, cough. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, urinary tract infection. |
| Low blood pressure | Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and falls. |
| Facial flushing | Sudden redness of the face. |
| If these side effects persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Dry skin | Skin becomes dry and rough. |
| Swelling (Edema) | Sudden weight gain; swelling of ankles, feet, hands. |
| Muscle and joint pain | Joint pain, muscle spasms, muscle pain. |
| Mouth sores | Small sores inside the mouth. |
| Vomiting and nausea | Stomach upset, vomiting. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Amivantamab (Rybrevant) is a targeted therapy for certain types of lung cancer.
- This is a vaccine given through a vein in a hospital.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- If you experience any eye changes, signs of infection, or allergies during treatment, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding completely during treatment and for 3 months after stopping it.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any problems or concerns you may have. Remember that you are not alone.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න