AVASTIN IV
Generic Name: BEVACIZUMAB - INJECTIONPronounced: (bev-ah-CIZ-oo-mab)
AVASTIN IV Warning
This medication can rarely cause a tear in the stomach/intestines (gastrointestinal perforation and wound dehiscence), bloody vomit, or bleeding in the lungs, which sometimes can be fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop: severe stomach/abdominal pain, constipation with vomiting, fever, black/bloody stools, blood in vomit, or coughing up blood.
Tell your surgeon that you are taking this medication before having any type of surgery (see also Precautions section).
AVASTIN IV Side Effects
Dry mouth, cough, voice changes, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, mouth sores, nausea, headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- trouble breathing
- swelling of ankles/feet
- sudden weight gain
- unusual tiredness
- fast heartbeat
- fainting
- signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)
- difficulty urinating
- calf pain/swelling
- muscle cramps
- severe stomach/abdominal pain
- frothy/dark urine
- yellowing eyes/skin
- muscle loss
- decreased amount of urine
Symptoms of a severe infusion reaction that may occur during bevacizumab treatment include difficulty breathing, flushing, severe dizziness, nausea/vomiting, shaking, or chest pain. Tell your healthcare professional if you have any of these symptoms during your treatment. Your doctor will monitor you closely and will temporarily stop your treatment if a reaction occurs.
Bevacizumab infrequently may cause blood clots to form, leading to serious medical conditions (heart attack/angina, stroke/TIA). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop chest pain/tightness, sudden vision changes, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, or slurred speech. If any of these conditions occur, you should not be given this medication again.
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