WARNING

Zaltrap (aflibercept) is a medication used in the treatment of certain cancers, but it comes with potential risks and side effects. Some of the key risks associated with taking Zaltrap include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Zaltrap can cause an increase in blood pressure, which may require monitoring and management.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: Serious and potentially life-threatening perforations of the gastrointestinal tract can occur.
• Thromboembolic Events: Zaltrap is associated with an increased risk of blood clots, which can lead to serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
• Infusion Reactions: Some patients may experience infusion reactions during or shortly after receiving Zaltrap, which may include fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
• Proteinuria: Zaltrap may cause an increase in protein levels in the urine (proteinuria).
• Neutropenia: Zaltrap can cause a decrease in the number of neutrophils, increasing the risk of infections.
• Hemorrhage: There is an increased risk of bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Impaired Wound Healing: Zaltrap may impair the process of wound healing.
• Ovarian Failure: In some cases, Zaltrap may cause reversible ovarian failure in women.
• Neurological Effects: Headaches, dizziness, and neuropathy are among the reported neurological side effects.

It’s important for patients to be aware of these potential risks and promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider. Treatment with Zaltrap should be closely monitored, and the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the potential risks in each individual case. Patients should discuss any concerns or questions with their healthcare provider before and during treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Zaltrap (aflibercept) is a prescription medication used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. Specifically, it is approved for use in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for the treatment of:

• Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (mCRC): Zaltrap is used in combination with FOLFIRI (folinic acid, fluorouracil, and irinotecan) for the treatment of adults with metastatic colorectal cancer that is resistant to or has progressed following an oxaliplatin-containing regimen.
• Advanced or Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Zaltrap, in combination with docetaxel, is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic or locally advanced NSCLC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy.

How should this medicine be used?

Zaltrap is given by intravenous infusion (IV) into a vein. The dosage and schedule may vary depending on the specific cancer being treated and the overall treatment plan determined by the healthcare provider.

Patients should not self-administer Zaltrap. The drug is typically administered in a healthcare setting by a trained medical professional. The exact dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment will be determined by the prescribing physician based on the patient’s individual health and the specific type and stage of cancer being treated.

As with any medication, it is crucial for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Zaltrap, it’s important to discuss them with your oncologist or healthcare provider.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your specific medical condition and treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

While Zaltrap is primarily used in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer and certain types of advanced or metastatic cancers of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum, it’s important to note that the use of medications can evolve over time. Clinical trials and research may explore additional uses for Zaltrap, and it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Zaltrap, it’s crucial to note the following:

• Hypertension: Zaltrap has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure). Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment, and antihypertensive medications may be required.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: Zaltrap may increase the risk of gastrointestinal perforations, which are serious and potentially fatal. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms, and treatment should be discontinued if perforations occur.
• Thromboembolic Events: Zaltrap has been associated with an increased risk of blood clots. Patients with a history of thromboembolic events should be closely monitored, and appropriate prophylaxis may be considered.
• Impaired Wound Healing: Zaltrap may impair wound healing, and caution should be exercised in patients undergoing surgery. Treatment with Zaltrap should be stopped at least four weeks prior to elective surgery.
• Proteinuria: Zaltrap may cause proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in the urine). Regular monitoring of urine protein levels is recommended.
• Infusion Reactions: Infusion reactions, including serious and fatal reactions, have been reported with Zaltrap. Patients should be monitored for signs of infusion reactions, and appropriate medical support should be available during the infusion.
• Ovarian Failure: Zaltrap may cause reversible ovarian failure. Women of reproductive potential should be advised about the potential risk of infertility.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Zaltrap may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. Adequate contraceptive measures should be taken during treatment, and breastfeeding should be avoided.

It’s important to emphasize that these precautions are general guidelines, and individual patients may have specific considerations based on their health status and medical history. Patients should discuss any concerns or questions about Zaltrap with their healthcare provider before and during treatment. Always follow the advice and instructions of your healthcare team.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary restrictions associated with Zaltrap. However, it’s important to follow any dietary recommendations or restrictions provided by your healthcare provider or oncology team. Nutrition is crucial during cancer treatment, and your healthcare team may provide guidance on maintaining a healthy diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Zaltrap is typically administered in a healthcare setting by a healthcare professional. Therefore, patients do not self-administer the drug. If there are concerns or questions about the timing or administration of Zaltrap, it is important to contact your healthcare provider or the medical team overseeing your treatment. They can provide guidance on any missed doses and may adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Zaltrap (aflibercept) can cause various side effects, and the severity and frequency of these side effects can vary from person to person. It’s important for patients to be aware of potential side effects and to promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider. Some common side effects of Zaltrap include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Zaltrap can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential during treatment.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: Serious and potentially life-threatening perforations of the gastrointestinal tract can occur. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever.
• Thromboembolic Events: Zaltrap has been associated with an increased risk of blood clots, which can lead to serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
• Infusion Reactions: Some patients may experience infusion reactions during or shortly after receiving Zaltrap. These reactions may include fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
• Proteinuria: Zaltrap may cause an increase in protein levels in the urine (proteinuria). Regular monitoring of urine protein levels is recommended.
• Neutropenia: Zaltrap can cause a decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, which may increase the risk of infections.
• Hemorrhage: Increased risk of bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding, can occur with Zaltrap.
• Impaired Wound Healing: Zaltrap may impair the process of wound healing, which is why it is recommended to stop treatment at least four weeks prior to elective surgery.
• Ovarian Failure: In some cases, Zaltrap may cause reversible ovarian failure in women.
• Problems with the Nervous System: Neurological side effects, including headaches, dizziness, and neuropathy, have been reported.

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 side effects can vary. Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment and report any side effects promptly.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual patient experiences may vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and information based on your specific health condition and treatment plan.

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

Storage and Disposal of Zaltrap:

• Storage: Zaltrap is typically stored by healthcare professionals in a healthcare setting, and patients do not usually store it at home. If there are any specific instructions for storage, they will be provided by the healthcare provider or the facility administering the treatment.
• Disposal: Since Zaltrap is administered in a medical setting, the disposal of unused or expired portions is managed by healthcare professionals. Patients should not attempt to dispose of medications on their own, and any unused or expired medication should be returned to the healthcare provider or healthcare facility for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an emergency or overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Emergency services or a local poison control center should be contacted. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the name of the medication (Zaltrap), the amount taken, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Patients receiving Zaltrap will likely undergo regular monitoring, including blood pressure checks and laboratory tests, to assess for potential side effects and monitor the response to treatment.
• Follow-up Appointments: Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. These appointments are essential for monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment and managing any potential side effects.
• Communication with Healthcare Provider: It is important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. Report any new or worsening symptoms, side effects, or concerns promptly. Your healthcare team can provide guidance and make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
• Contraception: If there is a possibility of pregnancy, effective contraception should be used during Zaltrap treatment, as the medication may cause harm to a developing fetus.
• Patient Education: Patients and caregivers should be educated about the signs and symptoms of potential side effects, such as hypertension, gastrointestinal perforations, and thromboembolic events. Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as supplements, that you are taking. Some medications may interact with Zaltrap.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and instructions carefully. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have specific questions or concerns about Zaltrap or your treatment plan, consult with your healthcare provider.