Avelumab
Information about Avelumab
Avelumab Uses
Avelumab is used in the treatment of urinary bladder cancer.
How Avelumab works
Avelumab is a type of immunotherapy. It activates the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. Avelumab targets and blocks a protein (PD-L1) found on the surface of certain immune cells. Blocking PD-L1 activates the immune cells to find and kill cancer cells.
Common side effects of Avelumab
Fatigue, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, Diarrhea, Nausea, Infusion site reaction, Rash, Decreased appetite, Peripheral edema, Urinary tract infection, High blood pressure, Mucositis, Hand-foot syndrome, Voice change, Decreased level of thyroid hormones, Liver toxicity, Coughing up blood, Breathlessness, Abdominal pain, Headache
Available Medicine for Avelumab
Expert advice for Avelumab
- Do not receive any immunization or vaccination without your doctor’s approval while taking Avelumab.
- You may be at risk of infection, so try to avoid crowds or people with colds, and immediately report fever or any other signs of infection to your health care provider.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you notice signs or symptoms of skin rash, itchy skin, a rash with tiny spots and bumps, reddening of the skin.
- To reduce nausea, take anti-nausea medications as prescribed by your doctor, and eat small, frequent meals.
- Use contraceptives, and do not conceive a child (get pregnant) while taking Avelumab. Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, are recommended.
- Avoid sun exposure. Wear SPF 15 (or higher) sunblock and protective clothing.
- Do not drive or use machines after you have received Avelumab since you might feel tired or dizzy.