Bevacizumab

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Bevacizumab (pronunciation: bev-a-SIZ-uh-mab) is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of various types of cancer. It works by inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) in tumors, thereby depriving them of the nutrients and oxygen they need to grow.

Etymology

The name "Bevacizumab" is derived from the Latin words "beva", meaning "drink", and "cizumab", meaning "to cut off". This refers to the drug's mechanism of action, which involves cutting off the tumor's "drink" or supply of nutrients and oxygen.

Usage

Bevacizumab is used in the treatment of several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and glioblastoma. It is usually given in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.

Mechanism of Action

Bevacizumab works by binding to a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This prevents VEGF from interacting with its receptors on the surface of endothelial cells, which are the cells that line the inside of blood vessels. This inhibits the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Bevacizumab include hypertension, proteinuria, and bleeding. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as gastrointestinal perforation, wound healing complications, and hemorrhage.

See Also

External links

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