Question 1

What is Cetuximab used for?

Accepted Answer

Advanced bowel cancer (colorectal cancer), head and neck cancer

Question 2

How do you take Cetuximab?

Accepted Answer

This is not a tablet you take at home. Cetuximab is given as a drip (infusion) into your vein at a hospital or cancer treatment centre by trained medical staff. The first dose is usually 400 mg per square metre of your body size, given slowly over about 2 hours. After that, you receive 250 mg per square metre once every week over about 1 hour. Your oncologist will decide how long your treatment lasts.

Question 3

What are the side effects of Cetuximab?

Accepted Answer

Skin rash or acne-like breakouts on the face and body (very common — almost everyone gets this), feeling tired or weak, diarrhoea, nausea or loss of appetite, reactions around the area where the drip enters your vein such as redness or swelling

Question 4

Who should not take Cetuximab?

Accepted Answer

People who have had a severe allergic reaction to cetuximab or any of its ingredients. Patients whose cancer has a specific gene change called a RAS mutation (your doctor will test for this before starting treatment, as the drug will not work for them). People with severe heart or lung problems should discuss risks carefully with their oncologist.

Question 5

Is Cetuximab safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Cetuximab is not safe during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby, and women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 2 months after the last dose; breastfeeding should also be avoided during and for 2 months after treatment.

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