Why is this medication prescribed?

Ramucirumab is a medication that is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the action of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). This protein plays a role in the growth of blood vessels that supply nutrients to cancer cells. By inhibiting VEGFR-2, ramucirumab helps to slow down the growth and spread of cancer.

Ramucirumab is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Advanced Gastric or Gastroesophageal Junction (GEJ) Cancer: Ramucirumab, in combination with other chemotherapy agents, is used for the treatment of advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. It may be prescribed in patients whose cancer has progressed despite prior treatment.
• Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Ramucirumab, in combination with another chemotherapy drug, is used for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose disease has progressed after prior chemotherapy.
• Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Ramucirumab, in combination with another chemotherapy agent, is used for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer in patients whose disease has progressed after prior treatment.

How should this medicine be used?

Ramucirumab is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer. It is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting such as a hospital or infusion center. The specific dosing and administration schedule may vary based on the type of cancer being treated and individual patient factors.

Here are general guidelines for the use of Ramucirumab:

• Administration: Ramucirumab is given through a vein (IV infusion) over a period of time. The infusion is usually done every two weeks, but the exact schedule may vary.
• Dosage: The dosage of Ramucirumab is based on factors such as the type of cancer being treated and the patient’s weight. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your specific situation.
• Monitoring: While receiving Ramucirumab, your healthcare team will monitor you for any potential side effects. It’s important to report any unusual or severe reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, as they may interact with Ramucirumab.
• Side Effects: Common side effects of Ramucirumab may include high blood pressure, fatigue, abdominal pain, and changes in blood cell counts. Serious side effects are less common but may occur. It’s important to report any side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Follow-Up: Your healthcare team will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, assess the effectiveness of the treatment, and manage any side effects.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend all scheduled appointments. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Ramucirumab, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team. They can provide personalized information based on your medical history and the specific details of your treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

Aside from its primary use in advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, Ramucirumab may also be used in combination with other treatments for certain other types of cancers, as determined by the treating healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Ramucirumab Injection, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule. Here are some general precautions that may be associated with the use of ramucirumab:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of ramucirumab during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well established.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Ramucirumab may be associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is usually recommended during treatment.
• Bleeding Risk: VEGF inhibitors, like ramucirumab, may increase the risk of bleeding. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking medications that may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Wound Healing: There may be a risk of delayed wound healing with the use of ramucirumab. If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your healthcare provider, as they may recommend temporarily stopping the medication.
• Liver Function: Since the liver is involved in the metabolism of ramucirumab, your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function during treatment.

Remember, these are general precautions, and specific recommendations may vary based on individual patient characteristics and the specific cancer being treated. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized information based on your medical history and current health status.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with ramucirumab. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is important for overall well-being, especially during cancer treatment. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Since ramucirumab is typically administered by a healthcare professional through an intravenous infusion, there is generally no concern about patients forgetting a dose. The timing and administration of the medication are carefully managed during medical appointments.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ramucirumab, like many medications, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects to varying degrees. Common side effects and potential adverse reactions associated with ramucirumab include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Elevated blood pressure is a common side effect of ramucirumab. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a common side effect reported by individuals receiving ramucirumab.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches during or after treatment.
• Decreased Appetite: A decrease in appetite leading to weight loss can occur.
• Dysphonia (Hoarseness): Changes in voice, including hoarseness, have been reported.
• Stomatitis (Mouth Sores): Inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth can occur.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: There is a risk of gastrointestinal perforations, which can lead to serious complications.
• Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): Some individuals may experience nosebleeds.
• Proteinuria (Increased Protein in Urine): Elevated levels of protein in the urine have been reported.
• Hematologic Abnormalities: Ramucirumab can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions such as neutropenia (low white blood cell count), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and anemia (low red blood cell count).
• Infusion-Related Reactions: During or after the infusion, some individuals may experience reactions such as fever, chills, or allergic responses.
• Impaired Wound Healing: There is a risk of impaired wound healing, particularly in the context of surgery.

It’s important for individuals receiving ramucirumab to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any side effects or symptoms experienced during treatment. Some side effects may require medical attention, and the healthcare team can provide guidance on managing them.

Additionally, the information provided here is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medication can vary. Patients should receive detailed information about potential side effects from their healthcare providers and report any concerns promptly. In some cases, the benefits of the treatment may outweigh the risks, and the decision to continue or adjust the treatment plan will be made in consultation with the healthcare team.

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

Storage and Disposal of Ramucirumab Injection:

• Storage:
  • Ramucirumab is typically provided and administered in a healthcare setting by healthcare professionals. Therefore, storage considerations are primarily the responsibility of the healthcare facility.
  • If you are given any specific instructions regarding the storage of the medication for home use (for example, if there are any leftover vials or supplies), follow those instructions carefully.
  • Generally, ramucirumab should be stored as directed by the healthcare provider or pharmacist, typically at controlled room temperature.
• Disposal:
  • Unused or expired ramucirumab should be disposed of properly.
  • Do not dispose of medications in household trash or flush them down the toilet, unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • Contact your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal authorities for guidance on the proper disposal of unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In the case of an emergency or suspected overdose, contact emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) or seek immediate medical attention.
• The specific management of a ramucirumab overdose would be determined by healthcare professionals based on the individual’s symptoms and clinical condition.
• It’s important to bring the medication packaging or information with you to the emergency room or healthcare facility.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up assessments during the course of ramucirumab treatment.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking.
• Lab Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may conduct regular laboratory tests to monitor factors such as blood pressure, blood cell counts, and liver function during treatment.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. Effective contraception is generally recommended during treatment.
• Wound Healing: Report any signs of impaired wound healing, infections, or unusual bleeding to your healthcare provider.
• Infusion Reactions: Be aware of potential infusion-related reactions and notify your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, or allergic reactions during or after infusion.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, to avoid potential interactions.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific and up-to-date information regarding the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other aspects related to ramucirumab treatment. This information is general in nature and may not cover all individual circumstances or developments in medical guidelines.