Erbitux (Cetuximab) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information

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May 27, 2012

Erbitux

Head and Neck Cancer »

What is cancer?

Cancer is a group of many related diseases that begin in cells, the body's basic unit of life. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells in an orderly way. They perform their functions for a while, and then they die. Sometimes, however, cells do not die. Instead, they continue to divide and create new cells that the body does not need. The extra cells form a mass of tissue, called a growth or tumor. There are two types of tumors: benign and malignant. Benign tumors are not cancer. They do not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors are cancer. Their growth invades normal structures near the tumor and spreads to other parts of the body. Metastasis is the spread of cancer beyond one location in the body.

What kinds of cancers are considered cancers of the head and neck?

Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line the mucosal surfaces in the head and...

Read the Head and Neck Cancer article »

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Advise patients

To report signs and symptoms of infusion reactions such as fever, chills, or breathing problems.
Of the potential risks of using Erbitux during pregnancy or nursing and of the need to use adequate contraception in both males and females during and for 6 months following the last dose of Erbitux therapy.
That nursing is not recommended during, and for 2 months following the last dose of Erbitux therapy.
To limit sun exposure (use sunscreen, wear hats) while receiving and for 2 months following the last dose of Erbitux.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/9/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.