Ziv-Aflibercept (By injection)
ziv a-FLIB-er-sept
Treats cancer of the colon or rectum.
Drug classes
Antineoplastic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Ziv-aflibercept injection is given together with other medicines to treat advanced cancer of the colon or rectum. It is used in patients who have already been treated with other cancer medicines that did not work well. Ziv-aflibercept works by changing the amount of blood that gets to the tumor.
This medicine is to be administered only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to aflibercept or ziv-aflibercept.
Warnings
This medicine may harm an unborn baby. Both men and women should use an effective form of birth control while being treated with this medicine and for at least 3 months after the last dose. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have angina, a bleeding disorder, blood clotting problems, high blood pressure, or kidney disease. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart attack or stroke.
Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
Increased risk of bleeding Stomach or bowel problems, including perforation (hole) High blood pressure Increased risk of blood clots Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS)This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine could make wounds heal slower.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Black, tarry stools, red or dark brown urine, vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood
Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
Numbness or weakness on one side of your body, pain in your lower leg (calf), problems with vision, speech, or walking
Severe diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach pain
Severe or sudden headache, seizures, confusion, blurred vision
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness, lightheadedness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild diarrhea
Tiredness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Zaltrap
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
