Erbitux (cetuximab) - Uses, Side Effects, and More

What are the most common side effects of Erbitux?

The most common side effects of Erbitux are listed below. Side effects can vary based on the other treatments you are receiving while using Erbitux. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

• Rash or small raised bumps on the skin
• Itching
• Changes in how your nails look or feel
• Headache
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Infection
• Tiredness
• Stomach pain
• Reduced appetite
• Joint pain

There may be other side effects of Erbitux that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Erbitux?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Erbitux are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Erbitux may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Erbitux and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Infusion Reactions. Erbitux can cause reactions that can be serious when it is given to you. Your infusion may need to be slowed or stopped if you have these reactions. You may have a higher risk of an infusion reaction if you have had a tick bite or are allergic to red meat. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms when you get your infusion or in the few hours after getting it.

• Trouble breathing
• Hoarseness or a high pitched sound when you are breathing
• Low blood pressure (which can cause dizziness and fainting)
• Heart attack
• Fever or chills

Lung Problems. Erbitux can cause inflammation in your lungs, also called interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis. This can be serious or even life-threatening. Get emergency help if you have trouble breathing or feel short of breath. You may also have a cough, fever, or chest pain.

Skin Reactions. Erbitux can cause several types of skin reactions. Some of these skin reactions can lead to serious skin infections or death if not treated. Limit your exposure to the sun while using Erbitux and for two months after your last dose. Call your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the following symptoms.

• Dry, itchy, or scaly skin
• Cracks in your skin
• Redness, pain, or swelling of your skin
• Swelling at the nail base or your nails come off
• Painful red or purple skin that looks burned and peels off
• Flat red rash or blisters on your skin, mouth, nose, and genitals
• Red, painful, watery eyes or vision changes
• Flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, and muscle aches

Cardiac Arrest. Erbitux may cause your heart to stop beating (cardiac arrest) or you to die suddenly. This risk may be higher if you have heart problems. Tell your healthcare provider about any heart problems you may have, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, or an abnormal heartbeat.

Electrolyte Changes. Erbitux may cause changes to the levels of certain minerals in your body, called electrolytes. For example, it may cause low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia), low potassium levels (hypokalemia), and low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). These changes can be serious. Keep appointments for blood work so that your healthcare provider can check your electrolyte levels, especially if you take certain other medicines. Call your healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms of electrolyte changes. 

• Weakness or unusual tiredness
• Muscle pain, cramps, spasms, or twitching
• Constipation
• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Confusion or decreased alertness
• Changes in your heart rate or rhythm, such as a fast or skipping heartbeat
• Fainting
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in your arms, feet, or face (paresthesia)
• Seizures