Amivantamab
About Amivantamab
Amivantamab is a monoclonal bispecific antibody primarily used in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, growing more slowly than small cell lung cancer. It has several subtypes, including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and giant cell carcinoma. Symptoms often include coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Amivantamab contains amivantamab, which targets and inhibits the activity of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and MET (mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor), both of which are involved in cancer cell growth and spread. Amivantamab disrupts pathways that promote cancer cell growth, helping to reduce tumor size and slow disease progression.
In some cases, this medicine may cause side effects like rash, itching, muscle/joint pain, edema, shortness of breath, cough, constipation, changes in vision, chest discomfort, fever, and flushing. The majority of these side effects may not require medical treatment and will subside with time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, see a doctor.
Amivantamab should not be received if you are allergic to it. Before starting treatment with Amivantamab, inform your doctor about any other medications or herbal products you are taking. Brief your medical history to the doctor in advance if you have a history of lung or breathing issues, skin disorders, eye problems, and liver/kidney impairment. Amivantamab is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Also, it is not recommended for children, as its safety and efficacy have not been established.
Uses of Amivantamab
Medicinal Benefits
Amivantamab is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It specifically targets both the EGFR and MET receptors, which are involved in cancer cell development, resulting in a more precise treatment with fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy. As a monoclonal antibody, it binds to specific cancer cell receptors, minimizing off-target effects. It slows disease progression and shrinks tumors by disrupting mechanisms that drive cancer cell proliferation. Amivantamab may also be effective for patients with specific mutations or who have developed resistance to other EGFR-targeted treatments.
Directions for Use
Amivantamab is administered by a healthcare professional; do not self-administer.
Storage
Side Effects of Amivantamab
- Fever
- Rash
- Dry skin
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Drug Warnings
Brief your medical history to the doctor in advance if you have a history of lung or breathing issues, skin disorders, eye problems, and liver/kidney impairment. Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions should use Amivantamab with caution, as it may worsen lung symptoms or lead to interstitial lung disease (ILD). Amivantamab can cause fetal harm, so it should be avoided during pregnancy. Avoid breastfeeding during treatment with Amivantamab and for 3 months after the last dose. Amivantamab is not recommended for children, as its safety and efficacy have not been established. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of lung problems (shortness of breath, cough, or fever), skin problems (rash, itching or dry skin), or eye problems (eye pain, dry eyes, blurred vision, redness, changes in vision, itching, excessive tearing or sensitivity to light).
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking other anti-cancer medications (atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab, ipilimumab, nivolumab).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of lung or breathing issues, skin disorders, eye problems, and liver/kidney impairment before receiving Amivantamab.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is unknown if alcohol interacts with Amivantamab. Please consult a doctor if you have any concerns.
Pregnancy
unsafeAmivantamab is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. Therefore, please inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Amivantamab.
Breast Feeding
unsafeIt is not known if amivantamab passes into breast milk. Avoid breastfeeding during treatment with Amivantamab and for 3 months after the last dose.
Driving
cautionAmivantamab may cause dizziness, tiredness or temporary vision problems. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience any of these.
Liver
cautionInform your doctor if you have liver impairment. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing Amivantamab.
Kidney
cautionInform your doctor if you have kidney impairment. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing Amivantamab.
Children
cautionAmivantamab is not recommended for children, as its safety and efficacy have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Consume a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Meditation and deep breathing techniques can help you manage stress.
- Limit processed and high-fat foods to maintain overall health.
- Consume antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries and leafy greens, to help boost your immune system.
- Use moderate skin care products and avoid sun exposure.
- Limit or avoid alcohol during treatment.
Special Advise
- Females of reproductive potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
- Consult the doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment with Amivantamab.
- Amivantamab may cause skin reactions; therefore, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Also, limit your time in the sun during treatment and for 2 months after the treatment with Amivantamab.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most prevalent form of lung cancer. It grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer and includes subtypes like adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. NSCLC is often diagnosed in later stages and may cause symptoms such as a persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and weight loss.
FAQs
Amivantamab used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, growing more slowly than small cell lung cancer.
Amivantamab contains amivantamab, which targets and inhibits the activity of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and MET (mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor), both of which are involved in cancer cell growth and spread. Amivantamab disrupts pathways that promote cancer cell growth, helping to reduce tumor size and slow disease progression.
Amivantamab is an antibody targeting EGFR mutations. Your doctor may recommend a biomarker test to determine if this treatment is suitable for you. These tests identify specific biomarkers, including EGFR, to help guide the best treatment approach.
EGFR mutation is an alteration in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and is commonly associated with cancers like non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most prevalent form of lung cancer. It grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer and includes subtypes like adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. NSCLC is often diagnosed in later stages and may cause symptoms such as a persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and weight loss.
Amivantamab is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor before starting treatment.
Amivantamab is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional. The dosage and frequency will be determined based on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.
You are recommended to inform your doctor before using any other medicines with Amivantamab. This helps ensure that there are no potential interactions or adverse effects between Amivantamab and the other medicines you may be using.
Common side effects may include rash, itching, muscle/joint pain, edema, shortness of breath, cough, constipation, changes in vision, chest discomfort, fever, and flushing. Seek medical care if the symptoms persist or worsen.
Yes, Amivantamab may cause skin problems like rash, itching or dry skin. You may use alcohol-free moisturizing cream for dry skin. To prevent skin problems, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Also, limit your time in the sun during treatment and for 2 months after the treatment with Amivantamab. Consult the doctor if you have any skin reactions or concerns regarding this.
