Avastin is used to treat;
brain tumours resistant to previous treatments
metastatic (spreading) cancer of the large bowel (i.e. in the colon or rectum), breast
or cervix in combination with chemotherapy agents
lung cancer and cancer of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (which can extend to the
lining of surrounding organs such as stomach, liver) in combination with chemotherapy
agents
kidney cancer (renal cell cancer) in combination with interferon therapy (Roferon-A®).
Avastin contains the active ingredient bevacizumab.
Avastin belongs to a group of medicines known as anti-neoplastic (or anti-cancer)
agents. There are many different classes of anti-neoplastic agents. Avastin belongs
to a class known as anti-angiogenic agents.
Anti-angiogenic agents inhibit angiogenesis (the process of forming new blood vessels
in your body).
Avastin selectively binds to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein
found on the cells that line blood vessels. Tumours produce high levels of VEGF, which
stimulates blood vessels to grow, thereby providing the tumour with nutrients and
oxygen.
When Avastin blocks VEGF it disrupts the blood supply to the tumour, stopping or slowing
down its growth.
There are many different types of medicines used to treat brain tumours and metastatic
cancer of the large bowel, breast, lung, kidney and cervix.
Your doctor may have prescribed Avastin for another purpose.
Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why Avastin has been prescribed for
you.
Avastin is not addictive.
This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription.
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