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Immunotoxins: The Next Generation

Notes & Commentary

New Cancer-Related Mutations Found in Breast & Colon Cancers

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News from the AACR’s Molecular Diagnostics in Cancer Therapeutic Development Meeting

News from the AACR’s Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Meeting

Panitumumab approved for metastatic colorectal carcinoma

Bevacizumab use expanded to lung cancer

Histone deactylase inhibitor, vorinostat, now available

Trastuzumab expanded to adjuvant use in breast cancer

Imatinib: New uses approved, cardiac warning issued

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Targeted mouse models useful in testing novel anticancer agents

Reviews & Reports

Panitumumab Approved for Metastatic Colorectal Carcinoma

Reviewed by Nicholas J. Vogelzang, MD

Panitumumab, a recombinant human IgG2-kappa monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in September 2006 for the treatment of EGFR-expressing, metastatic colorectal carcinoma with disease progressing on or following fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-containing chemotherapy regimens.

The recommended dose of panitumumab is 6 mg/kg administered over 60 minutes as an intravenous infusion every 14 days. Doses higher than 1,000 mg should be administered over 90 minutes. It is supplied as a sterile, colorless, preservative-free solution containing 20 mg/mL of panitumumab in a single-use vial.

Possible adverse effects include dermatologic toxicity, infusion reactions, pulmonary fibrosis, and potential embryofetal lethality. Periodic monitoring of electrolyte levels is advised.

Panitumumab is available from Amgen, Inc, as Vectibix. Full prescribing information can be found at wwwext.amgen.com/pdfs/products/vectibix_pi.pdf.