What types of side effects do monoclonal antibody drugs cause?

In general, monoclonal antibody treatment carries fewer side effects than do traditional chemotherapy treatments.

However, monoclonal antibody treatment for cancer may cause side effects, some of which, though rare, can be very serious. Talk to your doctor about what side effects are associated with the particular drug you're receiving.

Common side effects

In general, the more common side effects caused by monoclonal antibody drugs include:

• Allergic reactions, such as hives or itching
• Flu-like signs and symptoms, including chills, fatigue, fever, and muscle aches and pains
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rashes
• Low blood pressure

Serious side effects

Serious, but rare, side effects of monoclonal antibody therapy may include:

• Infusion reactions. Severe allergy-like reactions can occur and, in very few cases, lead to death. You may receive medicine to block an allergic reaction before you begin monoclonal antibody treatment. Infusion reactions usually occur while treatment is being administered or soon after, so your health care team will watch you closely for a reaction.
• Low blood cell counts. Monoclonal antibodies that deliver radioactive particles or chemotherapy drugs may be associated with low blood cell counts that can be severe and persistent.
• Heart problems. Certain monoclonal antibodies increase the risk of high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and heart attacks.
• Lung problems. Some monoclonal antibodies are associated with a higher risk of inflammatory lung disease.
• Skin problems. Sores and rashes on your skin can lead to serious infections in some cases. Serious sores can also occur on the tissue that lines your cheeks and gums (mucosa).
• Bleeding. Monoclonal antibody drugs designed to stop cancer from forming new blood vessels have an increased risk of severe internal bleeding.