Erbitux Mode of Action

Erbitux® (cetuximab) is a drug used in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. It is also approved to treat a certain kind of advanced colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and rectum).
 
Its primary mode of action involves binding to a receptor in the body called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). As a result, Erbitux blocks certain proteins from binding to EGFR, which slows down the growth of cancer cells. This medication does not cure cancer, however.
 
(Click Erbitux to learn more about the mode of action for this drug, possible side effects, dosing guidelines, and more.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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