A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Bambevi, known generically as Bevacizumab, is an anti-cancer medication primarily used for the treatment of various forms of cancer, including colorectal cancer, lung cancer, glioblastoma, kidney cancer, and ovarian cancer. Bevacizumab works as an angiogenesis inhibitor, which means it helps prevent the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors with nutrients and oxygen, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. This medication is often used in combination with other cancer therapies.
Before you buy bevacizumab injection, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and cost of bevacizumab.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C6638H10160N1720O2108S44 |
License | FDA Approved |
Bioavailability | Not Applicable (Intravenous) |
Legal Status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Bevacizumab |
Elimination Half-life | Approximately 20 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 100 mg/4 mL or 400 mg/16 mL (injection) |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated; can harm fetal development |
Brands | Bambevi, Avastin |
Protein Binding | Not Significant |
PubChem CID | 24872365 |
MedlinePlus | a607001 |
ChEBI | CHEBI:57983 |
ATC Code | L01XC07 |
DrugBank | DB00112 |
KEGG | D06524 |
Routes of Administration | Intravenous |
Bambevi should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Bevacizumab dose varies depending on the type of cancer being treated, the size of the patient, and other concurrent treatments.
Active Ingredient: Bevacizumab
History of hypertension or cardiac disease as it can increase the risk of arterial thromboembolic events.
Recent surgery or a wound healing issue; Bambevi can interfere with normal wound healing processes.
Pre-existing neurological conditions, as it may exacerbate symptoms or lead to new onset of neurological complications.
Patients should be closely monitored for signs of gastrointestinal perforations, hemorrhage, and severe hypertension, all of which require immediate medical intervention.
Bambevi can interact with several types of medications and treatments, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing risk for adverse effects. It is crucial to inform healthcare providers of all medications, supplements, and therapies currently being used.
Known interactions include:
The use of Bambevi can lead to several side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Not all patients experience all side effects, but it is important to discuss the risk of side effects with a healthcare provider.
Common side effects include:
Is bevacizumab chemotherapy?
No, bevacizumab is not considered traditional chemotherapy. It is a type of targeted therapy known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors, thereby slowing or stopping their growth.
What is bevacizumab used for?
Bevacizumab is used to treat various types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, glioblastoma, renal cell carcinoma, and cervical cancer. It is often used in combination with other cancer treatments.
What is the mechanism of action for bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab works by targeting and inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). By blocking VEGF, bevacizumab prevents the growth of blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to tumors, thereby inhibiting their growth.
Does bevacizumab cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not commonly associated with bevacizumab. However, side effects can vary between individuals, and any unusual weight changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Is bevacizumab effective?
Bevacizumab has been shown to be effective in treating several types of cancer by slowing tumor growth and, in some cases, improving overall survival. Its effectiveness can depend on the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, and individual patient factors.
What are the benefits of bevacizumab injections?
The benefits of bevacizumab injections include:
Does bevacizumab shrink tumors?
Bevacizumab can help shrink tumors in some cases, particularly when used in combination with other cancer treatments. Its primary function is to inhibit blood vessel growth, which can starve the tumor of nutrients and slow its growth, potentially leading to shrinkage.
How often is bevacizumab given?
The frequency of bevacizumab administration depends on the type of cancer being treated and the specific treatment regimen prescribed by the healthcare provider. It is commonly given every two to three weeks through intravenous infusion.
Does bevacizumab affect the heart?
Bevacizumab can have cardiovascular side effects, including an increased risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), heart attack, and heart failure. Patients with preexisting cardiovascular conditions should be closely monitored while receiving bevacizumab.
Who should not take bevacizumab?
Bevacizumab may not be suitable for individuals who:
Patients should discuss their full medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if bevacizumab is appropriate for them.