Bavencio (Avelumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Bavencio Used For?
Bavencio is a medication that helps the immune system fight certain types of cancer.
Primary Uses
Bavencio is used to treat metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma, advanced urothelial carcinoma, and advanced renal cell carcinoma in combination with axitinib.
How It Works
Bavencio is designed to recognize and attach to specific targets in the body, aiding the immune system in attacking and destroying cancer cells.
Good to know: Bavencio is not addictive.
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How to Take Bavencio
Bavencio is administered as an infusion, and specific instructions must be followed for safe use.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dose is either 10 mg per kg of body weight or 800 mg, administered intravenously over 60 minutes, once every 2 weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your doctor or nurse to reschedule as soon as possible.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss an appointment.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- feeling tired or weak
- muscle, back, or joint pain
- nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- swelling in the arms, feet, or legs
- loss of appetite or weight loss
- cough
- skin rash or itching
- fever or chills
- shortness of breath
- dizziness or headache
- high or low blood pressure
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- infusion-related reactions
- pneumonitis
- hepatitis or liver toxicity
- colitis or severe diarrhea
- gastritis
- endocrine gland problems
- pancreatitis
- Type 1 diabetes complications
- kidney issues
- myocarditis
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- neutropenia
- sarcoidosis
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Bavencio.
Who Should Not Take Bavencio
Do not use Bavencio if you have had an allergic reaction to avelumab or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any autoimmune diseases, HIV, hepatitis B or C, or if you have had an organ transplant with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Bavencio should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also unknown if it passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Bavencio, affecting its efficacy.
- medications that suppress the immune system, such as steroids
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Bavencio.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol use while on Bavencio.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Treatment-related symptoms may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Storage
Store Bavencio in a cool, dry place away from light and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or going to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Bavencio to work can vary based on individual response and the type of cancer being treated.
There are no specific instructions regarding food interactions with Bavencio.
No, Bavencio is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Bavencio, as sudden discontinuation may affect your treatment.
It's advisable to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor while on Bavencio.
Weight changes can occur; consult your doctor if you notice significant changes.
Elderly patients should discuss their health status with their doctor to ensure Bavencio is safe for them.
Contact your doctor or nurse to reschedule your infusion as soon as possible.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.