What is Cizumab?
Cizumab is a prescription medicine used to treat several types of cancer. It contains bevacizumab, a specially designed antibody that helps stop the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors. When tumors can't get the blood they need, they slow down or stop growing.
Cizumab is given by a doctor as an intravenous (IV) infusion.
What is Cizumab used for?
Your doctor may prescribe Cizumab for:
- Colorectal cancer (when it has spread to other parts of the body)
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
- Glioblastoma multiforme (a type of brain tumor)
- Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma)
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
It is often used along with chemotherapy.
How does it work?
Tumors need blood vessels to grow. Cizumab blocks a protein called VEGF that helps new blood vessels form. By blocking VEGF, Cizumab helps starve the tumor of its blood supply.
How is Cizumab given?
- Given as an IV drip into a vein.
- First infusion usually takes 90 minutes; later ones may be faster.
- Administered every 2 or 3 weeks, depending on the treatment plan
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects
Tiredness
Nosebleeds
Headache
Dry mouth or skin
Loss of appetite
Change in taste
Serious side effects (call your doctor right away)
High blood pressure
Severe bleeding
Wounds that don't heal
Blood clots or chest pain
Hole in the stomach or intestines (perforation)
Kidney problems (protein in urine)
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects
Tiredness
Nosebleeds
Headache
Dry mouth or skin
Loss of appetite
Change in taste
Serious side effects (call your doctor right away)
High blood pressure
Severe bleeding
Wounds that don't heal
Blood clots or chest pain
Hole in the stomach or intestines (perforation)
Kidney problems (protein in urine)
Who should NOT take Cizumab?
Tell your doctor before taking Cizumab if you:
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
- Have had recent surgery or plan to have surgery
- Have bleeding problems, heart conditions, or uncontrolled blood pressure
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Cizumab can harm an unborn baby. Use birth control during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Do not breastfeed for 6 months after your last dose.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Your doctor will check your:
- Blood pressure
- Urine (for protein)
- Signs of bleeding or infection
Stay in regular contact with your healthcare team and report any unusual symptoms.
Talk to your doctor
Every patient is different. Your doctor is the best person to explain how Cizumab fits into your treatment plan.