Avastin (bevacizumab) is a drug that targets a type of protein (VEGF) present in many colon tumors. By doing so, it helps prevent tumors from spreading to other locations in the body (metastasizing).
Some research has shown that adding Avastin to a chemotherapy regimen can help people with advanced colorectal cancer live longer. However, Avastin's manufacturer has issued warnings about certain risks associated with the drug (see Avastin Warning and Another Avastin Warning), and a study published in the The Annals of Pharmacotherapy reported another potential side effect -- kidney failure.
Details of the Study
It's important to note that the study was a case report, which means it talked about one person's experience. Specifically, a 26-year-old male with leiomyosarcoma (a rare form of colorectal cancer) developed kidney failure while being treated with Avastin and the researchers decided the Avastin had caused it.
The results of this case report do not indicate that people taking Avastin need to worry about developing kidney failure. I'm passing this information along just in case someone who's taking Avastin experiences symptoms of kidney failure, so they can put two-and-two together faster. Symptoms can include fluid retention, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, muscle twitching, and seizures. For more information about kidney failure, please read Overview of Kidney Failure by About's Guide to Kidney Diseases.
Related Research Summaries:- Avastin Slows Growth of Colon Cancer
- FOLFOX4 Plus Avastin: Worth a Try?
- Is FOLFOX4 for You?
- FOLFOX4 Drug Combo Proven Effective
Source: Barakat, R. and Singh, N. "Interstitial Nephritis Secondary to Bevacizumab Treatment in Metastatic Leiomyosarcoma." The Annals of Pharmacotherapy 41.4 (2007): 707-710. Accessed 21 Apr. 2007.
