Panitumumab is an anticancer drug that belongs to the category of medicines known as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. It was approved by the U.S. FDA in 2006 to treat metastatic colorectal cancer. It is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs or as a single agent.

Panitumumab is used to prevent or treat metastatic colorectal cancer.

The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. Panitumumab is given as an injection into a vein (intravenous infusion) over a period of 60 minutes, every 14 days. Doses higher than 1000 mg should be administered over 90 minutes. The dose, route of administration, and frequency will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. 

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Panitumumab are anemia, dry mouth, heartburn, headache, hair loss, and back pain. Some serious side effects also include severe diarrhea when used in combination with treatment, acute kidney failure, and infusion-related reactions. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report to your doctor immediately.

It is not recommended to take Panitumumab if you are allergic to the drug or any of its ingredients. This drug targets certain proteins in the body, which can increase the risk of bleeding. If you experience any signs of bleeding while taking this drug, such as unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, blood in the urine, or bleeding gums, you should contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or temporarily stop the treatment. Eye problems can occur while on the treatment with this medicine such as inflammation and damage to the cornea, and the symptoms may include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.

This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy as it causes harm to the unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. It is advised for both men and women to follow proper contraceptive methods during and for 3 months after the last dose of the drug. It is important to tell your doctor if you experience any skin problems while taking this medicine. Your doctor may recommend topical creams or ointments to soothe the skin or antibiotics to treat any infections that may develop. Infusion reactions can happen as a side effect of this drug, in which these are the allergic reactions that can occur during or shortly after the infusion of the medication. To minimize the risk of infusion reactions, your doctor will monitor you closely during and after the infusion and may give you medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids to prevent or treat any allergic reactions that may occur. 

This medicine can cause skin or tissue damage. Apply sunscreen or wear a hat before you travel outside, as sunlight can cause further skin damage. If your skin reaction is severe, contact your doctor right away. It is necessary to practise good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and also avoid sharing personal items such as towels or utensils. Women of childbearing age should discuss family planning with their doctor before starting treatment with panitumumab.

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The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.