Product Introduction:
Versavo is a biosimilar to the innovator Bevacizumab (Avastin) and is used in the treatment of multiple advanced cancers. It works by binding to and neutralizing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is essential for tumor angiogenesis. Manufactured by Reliance Life Sciences, Versavo offers an affordable treatment option with proven efficacy and quality.
Uses:
Versavo is indicated for the treatment of:
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Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (mCRC)
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Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – non-squamous type
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Glioblastoma Multiforme
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Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma (mRCC)
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Cervical Cancer
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Ovarian and Fallopian Tube Cancers (off-label in some regions)
Storage Instructions:
- Store refrigerated at 2°C–8°C
- Do not freeze or shake
- Protect from light
- Keep in original carton until use
How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Versavo (Bevacizumab) is a VEGF inhibitor. It binds to VEGF-A, preventing it from interacting with its receptors (VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2) on the surface of endothelial cells. This inhibition prevents the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) that supply oxygen and nutrients to tumors, effectively starving the tumor and inhibiting growth.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include:
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Hypertension
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Fatigue
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Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
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Diarrhea
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Proteinuria (protein in urine)
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Headache
Severe side effects may include:
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Gastrointestinal perforation
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Hemorrhage
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Arterial thromboembolic events (stroke, heart attack)
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Delayed wound healing
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Nephrotic syndrome
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Infusion-related reactions
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
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Dosage depends on indication and patient body weight or BSA (Body Surface Area)
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Typically administered as an IV infusion every 2 or 3 weeks
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Example: 5–15 mg/kg every 2 or 3 weeks, depending on cancer type
Your oncologist will determine exact dose and schedule.
Method of Administration:
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Administered intravenously only
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First infusion over 90 minutes, then over 60 minutes, and subsequently 30 minutes if well tolerated
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Do not administer as IV push or bolus
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Must be diluted in 0.9% sodium chloride solution before use
Precautions:
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Monitor blood pressure before and during therapy
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Use caution in patients with bleeding disorders or recent surgery
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Risk of GI perforation, especially in colorectal cancer
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Regularly check urine protein levels
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Avoid use in patients with wound healing issues or serious infections
Drug Interactions:
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Increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants or NSAIDs
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Enhanced adverse effects with chemotherapy agents (e.g., irinotecan, 5-FU, platinum drugs)
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No significant CYP450 interactions
Allergies:
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Hypersensitivity to Bevacizumab or any formulation components
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Monitor for infusion-related hypersensitivity reactions (fever, chills, rash, breathing difficulty)
Overdose Information:
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Symptoms: Severe hypertension and increased risk of complications like bleeding or thrombosis
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Management: Symptomatic and supportive care
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Monitor vital signs, renal function, and neurological status
Missed Dose Instructions:
- Contact your treating physician immediately
- Do not self-adjust or reschedule an infusion
- Resume therapy as per oncologist’s recommendation
Additional Notes:
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Versavo is a cost-effective biosimilar with quality and efficacy comparable to Avastin
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Not for pregnant or breastfeeding women – teratogenic risks
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Female patients should use effective contraception during and for 6 months after treatment
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Periodic monitoring of blood pressure, proteinuria, and CBC is essential throughout therapy
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Used under specialist oncology supervision only
