The manufacturers of Avastin have identified another potential side effect of the drug: a condition known as RPLS (reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome). Symptoms of RPLS include headache, seizure, feeling tired, confusion, vision problems, and elevated blood pressure.

If you're taking Avastin and experience any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. If your doctor thinks you may have RPLS, you'll need to get an MRI to confirm it.

How common is this side effect?

RPLS as a side effect of Avastin occurs in about one out of every 1,000 people (0.1%) and can begin anywhere from 16 hours to a year after you start taking the drug. The good news is that RPLS is generally completely reversible when you stop taking Avastin.

Related News:

• Avastin Approved in EU and Switzerland
• Avastin Warning
• FDA Approval of Avastin as a Colorectal Cancer Treatment

For more information about drugs used to treat colon and rectal cancer, please view the colorectal cancer drug index.

Sources:

1. Medwatch: 2006 Safety Alerts for Drugs, Biologics, Medical Devices, and Dietary Supplements U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 26 Sep. 2006. 27 Sep. 2006 [http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2006/safety06.htm#Avastin].
2. Warning on Colon Cancer Drug Avastin. WebMD. 26 Sep. 2006. 27 Sep. 2006 [http://www.webmd.com/content/article/127/116839.htm].