Why is this medication prescribed?

Mvasi is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient bevacizumab-awwb. It is a biosimilar to the brand-name medication Avastin. Mvasi is primarily prescribed to treat various types of cancer and certain eye conditions. Here’s some information on its uses:

Cancer Treatment: Mvasi is commonly used to treat different types of cancer, including:

• Colorectal Cancer: Mvasi can be used in combination with chemotherapy to treat metastatic colorectal cancer.
• Lung Cancer: It may be used with chemotherapy to treat non-small cell lung cancer.
• Breast Cancer: In some cases, Mvasi is used in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.
• Kidney Cancer: Mvasi may be used in combination with interferon for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
• Glioblastoma: It can be used in combination with other therapies to treat glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer.

Eye Conditions: Mvasi is also used to treat certain eye conditions, specifically:

• Macular Degeneration: Mvasi is used to treat neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: It can be used to treat diabetic retinopathy with diabetic macular edema, a condition that affects the eyes of individuals with diabetes.

How should this medicine be used?

Mvasi is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it is injected into a vein. The specific dosage and treatment schedule will depend on the type of cancer or eye condition being treated, as well as your individual health circumstances. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose and treatment regimen for you.

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when receiving Mvasi. You will receive the medication in a healthcare setting, such as a clinic or hospital, where medical professionals can monitor your condition during and after the infusion.

Mvasi should only be administered by trained healthcare providers who are experienced in using this medication, as it can have potential side effects and interactions with other drugs. Before starting Mvasi treatment, discuss any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to ensure it is a safe and suitable treatment option for you.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to attend all scheduled appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations for the best possible outcome. If you have any questions or concerns about Mvasi, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team.

Other uses for this medicine

Mvasi (bevacizumab-awwb) is primarily used for the treatment of cancer and certain eye conditions, as mentioned in the previous response. Its use is typically limited to these specific medical indications, and it should not be used for other purposes unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional for an off-label use.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Mvasi or any medication, it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and take necessary precautions. These precautions may include:

• Medical Supervision: Bevacizumab is typically administered in a clinical setting by a healthcare professional. You should follow the prescribed dosage and schedule.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your health, including blood pressure, is often required during Bevacizumab treatment. It can affect blood pressure and may cause other side effects that need monitoring.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially if you have a history of bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, or any other significant health issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the use of Bevacizumab with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as it may have potential risks to the fetus or infant.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Mvasi, which can include bleeding, hypertension, proteinuria, gastrointestinal issues, and more. Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they can interact with Bevacizumab.
• Allergies: Let your healthcare provider know if you are allergic to any medications, especially if you have had an allergic reaction to Bevacizumab or any similar drugs.

It’s crucial to have an open and honest dialogue with your healthcare team when taking any medication, as they can provide you with personalized guidance and precautions specific to your medical condition and treatment plan. Never alter your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Dietary Instructions:

• There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Mvasi. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall health and well-being during cancer treatment.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• If you have questions about your diet while on Mvasi, consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who specializes in cancer care. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Mvasi, follow these steps:

• If you forget to take a dose of Mvasi, contact your healthcare provider or oncology nurse as soon as possible for guidance.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on how to proceed with your treatment schedule.
• It’s essential to stay on track with your prescribed treatment plan to maximize its effectiveness. Consistency in medication administration is crucial in cancer treatment.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mvasi (bevacizumab-awwb) is a medication that is often used to treat various types of cancer, including colorectal, lung, kidney, and ovarian cancer. It is a biosimilar to Avastin (bevacizumab), which means it is highly similar in structure and function to the original medication. Mvasi works by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply nutrients to cancer cells, thus slowing down or preventing tumor growth.

Like most medications, Mvasi can cause side effects. Some common side effects of Mvasi may include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension): This is a relatively common side effect and may need to be managed with medication.
• Bleeding and clotting issues: Mvasi can affect the body’s ability to form blood clots, which may lead to an increased risk of bleeding or clotting disorders.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Some patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Proteinuria: This is an elevated level of protein in the urine, which may indicate kidney problems.
• Fatigue: Many cancer patients experience fatigue as a side effect of both the disease and the treatment.
• Headache: Headaches can occur in some individuals receiving Mvasi.
• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums: These may be signs of the medication’s effect on blood clotting.
• Reduced white blood cell count (neutropenia): This can increase the risk of infections.
• Wound healing complications: Mvasi may slow down the healing of wounds after surgery.
• Decreased appetite and weight loss: Some individuals may experience a loss of appetite and weight loss while taking Mvasi.
• Mouth sores (stomatitis): This can cause discomfort and difficulty eating or drinking.
• Skin problems: Skin rash and dry skin are possible side effects.
• Risk of serious and sometimes fatal gastrointestinal perforations: Although rare, Mvasi may increase the risk of developing a hole in the stomach or intestines.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects that are not listed here. Additionally, the severity of these side effects can vary from person to person.

Patients receiving Mvasi should be closely monitored by their healthcare team for potential side effects. It’s essential to report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Your doctor can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment plan as needed to minimize discomfort and ensure the best possible outcome from your cancer treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage, disposal, handling of Mvasi, and what to do in case of an emergency or overdose:

Storage:

• Follow Label Instructions: Always store Mvasi according to the instructions provided on the medication’s label or as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Refrigeration: Mvasi may need to be stored in the refrigerator. Check the medication’s packaging for specific storage requirements, including temperature.
• Protect from Light: Keep the medication in its original packaging or container to protect it from light, as some medications can degrade when exposed to light.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Mvasi in a location that is inaccessible to children and pets.
• Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze Mvasi. Freezing can damage the medication.

Disposal:

• Dispose as Instructed: Dispose of Mvasi as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They may have specific guidelines for disposing of unused or expired medication.
• Community Disposal Programs: Many communities have medication disposal programs or take-back events. Contact your local pharmacy or health department for information on safe medication disposal options in your area.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush Mvasi down the toilet or drain unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Help: Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you or someone you know has ingested, injected, or otherwise taken more Mvasi than prescribed or if you experience severe adverse reactions.
• Poison Control Center: You can also contact your local poison control center or the National Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in the event of an overdose or exposure to Mvasi.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the medication, including the name (Mvasi), the strength, the amount taken, and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know

• Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Take Mvasi exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dose or frequency without consulting them.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare team will monitor your progress and may perform regular blood tests to check for side effects and to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they can interact with Mvasi and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Mvasi with your healthcare provider, as it may not be suitable in these situations.
• Regular Checkups: Attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow-up visits as recommended by your healthcare team.
• Side Effects: Be aware of the potential side effects of Mvasi (as mentioned in the previous response) and report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

It’s crucial to have open communication with your healthcare provider and pharmacist regarding the safe use, storage, and disposal of Mvasi. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific medical condition and treatment plan.