Amivantamab is used to treat lung cancer. Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.
Amivantamab is a monoclonal antibody which targets 2 different proteins on the surface of cancer cells to control their growth. It is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer.
Amivantamab is injected into the vein.
Allergy to Amivantamab may occur during the first few doses. You will be given an anti-allergy injection before each dose of Amivantamab. This may make you feel sleepy.
You will receive the first few infusions at a slower rate as some people may develop an infusion reaction (or an allergic reaction) to Amivantamab. If you do not develop any infusion reaction, you may receive the next few infusions at a faster rate.
The first few doses will be given more frequently when you start treatment. Check with your healthcare professional about your treatment schedule.
The table below will list some of the common side effects as well as the rare but serious side effects.
Side Effect |
Management |
Infusion-related reaction This is usually mild or moderate, but rarely can be more severe. |
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Acne-like rashes (pimples) may appear on the face, upper chest and back. It usually develops within the first 2 weeks of treatment and will get better after stopping treatment. Your skin may also become flaky and scaly. |
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Nail changes, or inflammation of the skin surrounding a fingernail or toenail may occur. |
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Mouth ulcers or sores This can occur on the tongue, the sides of the mouth or in the throat and can lead to an infection. |
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Feeling tired or lack of energy |
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Muscle aches and/or joint pain |
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Fluid retention (build-up of fluid) which may cause symptoms such as swelling of feet or lower legs |
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Nausea or vomiting This is usually mild. |
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Diarrhoea (loose and frequent stools) This is usually mild. |
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Constipation (hard stools) This is usually mild. |
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Lung problems This is a rare but serious side effect. |
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Eye problems such as dry eyes or eye irritation |
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Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking or intend to take any other medications, supplements, traditional medications, or herbal remedies, including those that are over-the-counter.
Tips to help manage your condition while you are on Amivantamab
Exercise |
Light exercise is recommended as it helps to improve mobility, balance, and even emotional well-being. Avoid strenuous exercise, and rest when you are feeling tired. |
Adequate hydration |
Maintain adequate hydration with 2 to 3 litres of fluids per day unless you have been informed by your doctor to restrict fluids. This will decrease your chances of getting constipation and prevent dehydration. |
Medical and dental treatment |
If you need to go to the hospital for any reason other than cancer, always inform the doctors and nurses that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment. Talk to your cancer doctor if you think you need dental treatment. Always inform your dentist that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment. |
Seek support if you feel overwhelmed |
It is normal to feel fearful or worried about your condition. Do not be afraid to talk about your concerns with your healthcare team or loved ones. There may be resources and support available to help you. |
Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Last updated on Apr 2025
This article was last reviewed on Wednesday, April 09, 2025