bevacizumabe

Bevacizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). By binding VEGF-A, it prevents it from activating VEGF receptors on blood vessels, inhibiting angiogenesis and reducing vascular permeability. This mechanism aims to slow tumor growth and limit cancer-related edema.

Bevacizumab is approved for use in several cancers, most notably in combination with chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer, glioblastoma, renal cell carcinoma, and various gynecologic cancers such as ovarian, fallopian tube, primary peritoneal cancer, and cervical cancer. Dosing and duration vary by indication and regulatory authority; therapy generally continues until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. In some regions, biosimilar versions are available.

Common and serious adverse effects reflect its anti-angiogenic action. Potential risks include hypertension, arterial thromboembolic events, wound healing impairment, serious bleeding, and gastrointestinal perforation. Other possible effects include proteinuria, renal dysfunction, fatigue, mucosal toxicity, and infusion reactions. Because bevacizumab can impair wound healing, it is typically withheld around the time of planned surgical procedures and during perioperative periods when wound healing is a concern.

Administration is by intravenous infusion, with regimens tailored to the cancer type and patient factors. Bevacizumab is also used off-label in ophthalmology for neovascular eye diseases, particularly in situations where other anti-VEGF therapies are considered, though the primary approved ocular treatments differ.