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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving panitumumab (Vectibix)?

This medication may cause severe skin problems such as acne, itching, redness, skin rash, dryness, peeling, cracking, or oozing, and swelling or infection around your fingernails or toenails. More severe forms of skin problems can lead to widespread infection and possibly death. Seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of any skin rash.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to panitumumab.

Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor if you have any allergies or breathing problems. You may not be able to receive panitumumab, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely receive this medication.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether panitumumab passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

This medication may affect a woman's fertility (ability to have children). You may also have irregular menstrual periods while receiving panitumumab.

How is panitumumab given (Vectibix)?

Panitumumab is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 90 minutes to complete.

Before you receive this medication, you may need to undergo a biopsy to make sure panitumumab is the right medication to treat your cancer.

Panitumumab is usually given once every 2 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions.

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