Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This protein plays a crucial role in angiogenesis, the process of forming new blood vessels. Bevacizumab is a combination medication used for the treatment of various types of cancers, such as colorectal, lung, and renal cell carcinoma.
In colorectal cancer, bevacizumab is typically used in combination with chemotherapy to treat metastatic disease. This means that the medication is given alongside other drugs to help slow down the growth and spread of cancer cells. Similarly, in lung cancer, bevacizumab is used alongside chemotherapy for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, particularly in patients with non-squamous histology.
In renal cell carcinoma, bevacizumab is administered with interferon alfa, a protein that has immune-stimulating properties. The combination of these two drugs helps to target both the blood supply to the cancer cells and the immune system’s response against the tumor.
Bevacizumab is administered through intravenous infusion, meaning the medication is injected into the patient’s vein over a set period of time. As with all medications, there are potential side effects, including high blood pressure, bleeding, and proteinuria, which is an excess of protein in the urine. However, the benefits of using bevacizumab often outweigh the risks, particularly in the context of cancer treatment.