Cyramza (Ramucirumab) for Lung Cancer

Overview
Cyramza is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Cyramza is often prescribed with erlotinib or docetaxel, two chemotherapy drugs. Cyramza is also referred to by its drug name, ramucirumab.

Cyramza is a member of a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. Cyramza is believed to work by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), a protein expressed on cancerous endothelial cells. By binding to VEGFR2, Cyramza prevents the growth and spread of cancer cells.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Cyramza is given as an IV injection (into your vein) by a health care professional. Cyramza is usually given in a health clinic or doctor’s office once every three weeks for NSCLC. It should be administered according to the frequency specified by the physician.

Avastin is available only as an IV injection.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Cyramza lists common side effects including low blood cell counts, fatigue, weakness, infections, high blood pressure, excessive protein in the urine, and hair loss.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Cyramza include hemorrhage, stomach and intestinal damage, impaired wound healing, high blood pressure, infusion reactions, fetal harm, kidney damage, and thyroid dysfunction.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Cyramza — Eli Lilly and Company
https://www.cyramza.com

Ramucirumab (Intravenous Route) — Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ra...