Over the past ten years there has been a rapid increase in new biological (targeted) anti-cancer therapies. This brings challenges for nurses to understand how such drugs work, how they are administered and the implications for patients in terms of potential side effects. Bevacizumab (Avastin®▼) is a monoclonal antibody that targets vascular endothelial growth factor. It is licensed for use in several cancers to treat patients with advanced or metastatic disease including breast, colorectal, renal, non-small cell lung and ovarian. However, there are regional variations in funding arrangements, which nurses should be aware of.
Cancer Nursing Practice. 11, 10, 29-37. doi: 10.7748/cnp2012.12.11.10.29.c9474
Correspondencecarole.farrell@christie.nhs.uk
Conflict of interestThe production cost of this article was supported by Roche Products Ltd has checked this article for factual accuracy, with editorial control remaining at all times with the journal
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to double blind peer review
or
Alternatively, you can purchase access to this article for the next seven days. Buy now
Are you a student? Our student subscription has content especially for you.
Find out more