Cetuximab is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. cetuximab
interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and
spread in the body.

Cetuximab is used in the treatment of cancers of the colon and
rectum.

Cetuximab may also be used for purposes other than those listed
in this medication guide.

Cetuximab should only be administered under the supervision of a
qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic
agents.

Cetuximab is administered as an intravenous (into the vein) infusion.
Most often, cetuximab is administered in a hospital or clinic setting.
If you are administering cetuximab at home, your healthcare provider
will give you detailed instructions regarding preparation, administration,
and storage of the medication.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment
with cetuximab depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other
factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding
the treatment schedule.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood
tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with cetuximab to
monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store cetuximab as directed by the manufacturer.
If you are storing cetuximab at home, follow the directions provided by
your healthcare provider.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of cetuximab including:
severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat;
swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; hives; and low blood pressure); lung
problems (cough, difficulty breathing); skin problems (rash, dryness, inflammation,
infection); and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects
from treatment with cetuximab.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects from cetuximab,
seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

* an allergic reaction (including difficulty breathing; closing of the
throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; hives; or low blood pressure);
* cough or difficulty breathing;
* skin rash, dryness, or inflammation;
* inflammation at the injection site;
* fever; or
* little or no urine production.

Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue taking cetuximab
and talk to your doctor if you experience:

* nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or abdominal pain;
* weakness;
* swelling;
* insomnia;
* headache;
* hair loss; or
* itching.

Other side effects have also been reported. Discuss with your doctor
any side effect that occurs during treatment with cetuximab.