Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor InhibitorPrescription OnlyPregnancy Cat. Not classifiedFDA Yes
Vegzelma
BEVACIZUMAB-ADCD
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE VEGZELMA is a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of: Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy for first- or second-line treatment. ( 1.1 ) Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with fluoropyrimidine-irinotecan- or fluoropyrimidine-oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy for second-line treatment in patients who have progressed on a first-line bevacizumab product-containing regimen. ( ...
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Brand names:Vegzelma
Quick Reference
Medicine ClassVascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor
FDA ApprovedYes
PregnancyCategory Not classified
Quick Facts
- Active ingredient
- BEVACIZUMAB-ADCD
- Medicine class
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor
- Brand names
- Vegzelma
- Availability
- Prescription only (Rx)
- Pregnancy category
- Not classified
- Half-life
- half-life is 20 days (11 to 50 days)
- FDA approved
- Yes
What Is Vegzelma?
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE VEGZELMA is a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of: Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy for first- or second-line treatment. ( 1.1 ) Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with fluoropyrimidine-irinotecan- or fluoropyrimidine-oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy for second-line treatment in patients who have progressed on a first-line bevacizumab product-containing regimen. ( ...
Vegzelma (BEVACIZUMAB-ADCD) belongs to the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor class of medications. It was first approved by the FDA in Yes. This medication requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Key Safety Information
- •Always follow the dose recommended by your healthcare professional. Taking more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects including serious complications.
- •Seek emergency care if you experience signs of an allergic reaction — hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash. Stop the medication and call your doctor immediately.
- •Some medications can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, a history of heart attack or stroke, or any pre-existing health condition.
- •Avoid or limit alcohol while taking Vegzelma. Do not drink alcohol without first discussing it with your healthcare provider as it may increase adverse effects.
- •Take Vegzelma with food or a full glass of water if stomach upset occurs. Stop use and talk to your doctor if you experience persistent stomach pain or GI symptoms.
- •Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. Some combinations significantly increase the risk of harm.
This is a summary only. Always read the full prescribing information and consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Uses & Indications
Vegzelma is prescribed for the following conditions. Some uses are FDA-approved indications; others may be evidence-based off-label uses. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE VEGZELMA is a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of: Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy for first- or second-line treatment.
( 1.1 ) Metastatic colorectal cancer, in combination with fluoropyrimidine-irinotecan- or fluoropyrimidine-oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy for second-line treatment in patients who have progressed on a first-line bevacizumab product-containing regimen.
( 1.1 ) Limitations of Use : VEGZELMA is not indicated for adjuvant treatment of colon cancer.
( 1.1 ) Unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer, in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel for first-line treatment.
( 1.2 ) Recurrent glioblastoma in adults.
( 1.3 ) Metastatic renal cell carcinoma in combination with interferon alfa.
( 1.4 ) Persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer, in combination with paclitaxel and cisplatin, or paclitaxel and topotecan.
( 1.5 ) Epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer: in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, followed by VEGZELMA as a single agent, for stage III or IV disease following initial surgical resection ( 1.6 ) in combination with paclitaxel, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin, or topotecan for platinum-resistant recurrent disease who received no more than 2 prior chemotherapy regimens ( 1.6 ) in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel or carboplatin and gemcitabine, followed by VEGZELMA as a single agent, for platinum-sensitive recurrent disease ( 1.6 ) 1.1 Metastatic Colorectal Cancer VEGZELMA, in combination with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy, is indicated for the first- or second-line treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).
Dosage Guide
The following are general dosing guidelines only. Your actual dose should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition, renal/hepatic function, and other medications.
AD
Adult Dosage
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Withhold for at least 28 days prior to elective surgery. Do not administer VEGZELMA for 28 days following major surgery and until adequate wound healing. ( 2.1 ) Metastatic colorectal cancer ( 2.2 ) 5 mg/kg every 2 weeks with bolus-IFL 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks with FOLFOX4 5 mg/ kg every 2 weeks or 7.5 mg/kg every 3 weeks with fluoropyrimidine-irinotecan- or fluoropyrimidine-oxaliplatin based chemotherapy after progression on a first-line bevacizumab product containing regimen First-line non−squamous non−small cell lung cancer ( 2.3 ) 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks with carboplatin and paclitaxel Recurrent glioblastoma ( 2.4 ) 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks Metastatic renal cell carcinoma ( 2.5 ) 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks with interferon alfa Persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer ( 2.6 ) 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks with paclitaxel and cisplatin, or paclitaxel and topotecan Stage III or IV epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer following initial
Available Forms
Available Strengths
Side Effects
Common
- 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Gastrointestinal Perforations and Fistulae [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
- Surgery and Wound Healing Complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ].
- Hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ].
- Arterial Thromboembolic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ].
- Venous Thromboembolic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ].
- Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ].
- Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ].
Serious
- 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Gastrointestinal Perforations and Fistula : Discontinue for gastrointestinal perforations, tracheoesophageal fistula, grade 4 fistula, or fistula formation involving any organ.
- ( 5.1 ) Surgery and Wound Healing Complications : In patients who experience wound healing complications during VEGZELMA treatment, withhold VEGZELMA until adequate wound healing.
- Withhold for at least 28 days prior to elective surgery.
- Do not administer VEGZELMA for at least 28 days following a major surgery, and until adequate wound healing.
- The safety of resumption of VEGZELMA after resolution of wound healing complication has not been established.
Rare
Medicine Interactions
Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about ALL medications you take, including prescriptions, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
MajorModerateMinor
Warnings & Contraindications
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Gastrointestinal Perforations and Fistula : Discontinue for gastrointestinal perforations, tracheoesophageal fistula, grade 4 fistula, or fistula formation involving any organ. ( 5.1 ) Surgery and Wound Healing Complications : In patients who experience wound healing complications during VEGZELMA treatment, withhold VEGZELMA until adequate wound healing. Withhold for at
How Vegzelma Works
12.1 Mechanism of Action Bevacizumab products bind VEGF and prevent the interaction of VEGF to its receptors (Flt-1 and KDR) on the surface of endothelial cells. The interaction of VEGF with its receptors leads to endothelial cell proliferation and new blood vessel formation in in vitro models of angiogenesis. Administration of bevacizumab to xenotransplant models of colon cancer in nude (athymic) mice caused reduction of microvascular growth and inhibition of metastatic disease progression.
Pharmacokinetics
Half-Life
half-life is 20 days (11 to 50 days)
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Not classified
Breastfeeding
Many medications pass into breast milk in varying amounts. Before using Vegzelmawhile breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider or pharmacist — they can weigh your dose, your infant's age, and available lactation safety data to find the safest option for you and your baby.
Storage & Handling
Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton until time of use to protect from light. Do not freeze or shake the vial or carton.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Vegzelma side effects
Complete adverse effect profile including common, serious, and rare reactions
Sources & References
- • FDA Prescribing Information — Official labeling and package insert for Vegzelma
- • U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus drug information
- • American Hospital Formulary Service (AHFS) — Clinical pharmacology monograph
- • PubMed / MEDLINE — View clinical studies
Last reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board · MedCentralHub Editorial Policy
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.