Avastin^®

Avastin^® - The brand name drug for the generic drug bevacizumab, Avastin^® is a monoclonal antibody that works to kill tumors by cutting off their blood supply. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced substances that fight cancerous cells by recognizing and binding to them. More specifically, Avastin^® binds to and inhibits the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which ultimately inhibits new blood vessel formation needed for tumors to grow.

Avastin^® is administered intravenously (into a vein) and is most often used for the treatment of colorectal cancer that has spread. It can also be used in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Some possible side effects of Avastin^® can be serious, and may include the following: allergic reactions, abdominal pain, digestive issues, vomiting, fatigue, neurological issues, mouth sores, delayed wound healing, high blood pressure, bleeding, and more.

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