Bavencio (Avelumab)

EMD Serono, Inc.

NPC's mission is your health. We recognize your need for help when you are applying for discount programs for your prescription medications. We consist of friendly and experienced advocates that not only know how these free and discount programs work, but are ready to help. We are available to take your call and answer any questions you may have as you search for the right program to fit your needs. We can also explain any supporting material you may need to provide as you apply for these programs. If for any reason you are denied, we also are experienced in the best appeals process with a high success rate.

NPC's mission is your health. We recognize your need for help when you are applying for discount programs for your prescription medications. We consist of friendly and experienced advocates that not only know how these free and discount programs work, but are ready to help. We are available to take your call and answer any questions you may have as you search for the right program to fit your needs. We can also explain any supporting material you may need to provide as you apply for these programs. If for any reason you are denied, we also are experienced in the best appeals process with a high success rate.

Anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Bavencio (avelumab) is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Bavencio is used to treat a type of skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma that has spread to other parts of the body. This medicine is for use in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. Bavencio is also used to treat a certain type of cancer of the bladder or urinary tract that has spread or cannot be removed with surgery. It is given for this condition after other cancer medicines such as cisplatin or carboplatin have been tried without success. Bavencio was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on an "accelerated" basis. In clinical studies, tumors responded to this medicine. However, further studies are needed.

Bavencio is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection. This medicine is usually given once every 2 weeks. Bavencio must be given slowly and the IV infusion can take at least 60 minutes to complete. You may be given other medication to prevent certain side effects that may occur during the infusion. You may need frequent medical tests to help your doctor determine how long to treat you with Bavencio.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Bavencio: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Some side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel light-headed, itchy, feverish, chilled, or have stomach or back pain, trouble breathing, or flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling). Bavencio works by causing your immune system to attack tumor cells. Avelumab may cause your immune system to attack healthy organs and tissues in your body. This could lead to serious or life-threatening side effects on your lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys, intestines, thyroid, or adrenal glands. Call your doctor at once if you have: * sudden chest pain or discomfort, new or worsening cough, feeling short of breath; * severe stomach pain, diarrhea, bloody or tarry stools; * blistering or peeling skin rash; * pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest; * fever, flu-like symptoms; * joint pain, severe muscle pain or weakness; * vision changes; * liver problems - loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, tiredness, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); * kidney problems - little or no urination, red or pink urine, swelling in your feet or ankles; or * signs of a hormonal disorder - feeling light-headed or very tired, rapid heartbeats, mood or behavior changes, hoarse or deepened voice, increased hunger or thirst, increased urination, constipation, vomiting, hair loss, sweating, feeling cold, weight gain, or weight loss. Common Bavencio side effects may include: * nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite; * feeling tired; * bone pain; * muscle pain; * rash; or * swelling in your hands or feet. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Other drugs may interact with avelumab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Bavencio injection.

Store refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in original package to protect from light. Do not freeze or shake the vial.