When you or someone you know is diagnosed with cancer, it's normal to be both curious and a little apprehensive about the medications your doctor will prescribe. Today, we're going to talk about one such specific treatment, a vaccine. It's called Necitumumab. Let's take a look at what kind of medicine it is, how it's used, and what you need to be aware of when taking it.
What kind of medicine is Necitumumab?
Simply put, this is a special protein designed to help our body's immune system find and attack cancer cells. In medical terms, this type of medicine is called a monoclonal antibody .
This medicine is mainly used to treat a type of cancer called non-small cell lung cancer . It is also known as PORTRAZZA in the market. This medicine may also be used for other conditions, ask your doctor about it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
Before you start treatment with Necitumumab, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health. Be sure to mention the following in particular:
- If you have had a previous heart condition.
- If you have had blood clots before.
- If you have had irregular heartbeats .
- If you know that your blood levels of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, or potassium are low.
- If you have had a previous stroke .
- If you have any skin conditions or are overly sensitive .
- If you have an allergic reaction not only to this Necitumumab vaccine, but also to any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding , this is very important.
How can I give you this medicine?
This is not a medicine you can take home. It is an injection that is given as a saline solution into a vein (infusion) by a doctor or trained nursing staff in a hospital or clinic.
It is very important to get the vaccine on time for this treatment. If you are unable to come on time, be sure to call your doctor in advance and let them know.
What to do if you overdose?
This is unlikely to happen as it is given in a hospital setting. However, if you suspect that you have overdosed on this medicine, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to consider during treatment
Your doctors will monitor you closely while you are on this treatment. You will also need to have regular blood tests (blood work) to check for any changes in your blood.
Special awareness about pregnancy and breastfeeding
This is very important.
- Avoid pregnancy: Avoid becoming pregnant in any way while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping treatment, as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby.
- Avoid breastfeeding: Also, do not breastfeed your baby while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping.
Other important points
- Allergies: This medicine can sometimes cause severe allergic reactions. To reduce this risk, your doctor may decide to give you other medicines before giving you Necitumumab.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight while taking this medicine. Therefore, avoid direct sunlight . If you go outside, wear clothing that covers your skin and use a good sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.
- Other medications: This medicine has not been fully studied to see how it interacts with other medicines. Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medicines you take (prescribed and over-the-counter), herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements you take. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like all medicines, Necitumumab can cause side effects. Not everybody gets them. However, it is important to be aware of them.
| Nature of the side effect | Symptoms you may experience |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of a blood clot | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, vision changes, sudden severe headache, pain, swelling or warmth in a leg, difficulty speaking, sudden numbness or weakness in a face, arm or leg. |
| Dangerous changes in heart rate | Chest pain, dizziness, feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, fainting, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of low potassium in the blood | Muscle pain or stiffness, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of a Stroke | Vision changes, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Common side effects | Diarrhea, eye pain, headache, loss of appetite, mouth sores, muscle twitching, nausea, and vomiting. |
Take-Home Message
- Necitumumab is a specific treatment for a type of lung cancer that is given intravenously in the hospital.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about your complete health history and all medications you are taking.
- It is essential to avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding during treatment and for 3 months after stopping.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe side effect, such as an allergic reaction, signs of blood clots, or signs of a stroke.
- Protect yourself from the sun during this time, as your skin may be sensitive to sunlight.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or concerns you have. Don't be afraid.
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