In the world of cancer treatments, there are a few mainstays that doctors and patients turn to time and time again. Avastin and Lucentin are two of these drugs, but what is the difference between them? Some may think that they are exactly the same, but there are in fact several key distinctions between the two. Here we will break down what sets them apart so that you can make an informed decision about which is best for you or your loved one.
What is Avastin?
Avastin is a cancer medication that works by inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels. It is most commonly used to treat breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. Avastin was first approved by the FDA in 2004, and it has been shown to be an effective treatment for many types of cancer. However, Avastin can also cause serious side effects, including bleeding and a weakened immune system. As a result, Avastin should only be used under the care of a qualified healthcare professional.
What is Lucentin?
- Lucentin is a cancer medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents. Lucentin works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which leads to their death. Lucentin is used to treat several types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and leukemia.
- Lucentin is usually given as an injection into a vein.Common side effects of Lucentin include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and low blood counts.
- Lucentin can also cause serious side effects, such as liver damage, lung damage, and heart failure. Lucentin is a brand name for the generic drug carboplatin. Lucentin is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis. Lucentin was first approved by the FDA in 1989.
Difference between Avastin and Lucentin
- Avastin and Lucentin are two common cancer medications. Avastin is a targeted therapy that works by binding to a protein on the surface of cancer cells, which prevents them from growing and spreading. Lucentin is a chemotherapy medication that works by killing cancer cells.
- Avastin is typically used to treat breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers, while Lucentin is typically used to treat leukemia and lymphoma. Avastin is given as an infusion, while Lucentin is given as a pill or injection.
- Avastin can cause side effects such as headache, fatigue, and nausea, while Lucentin can cause side effects such as hair loss, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Conclusion
While Avastin and Lucentin are both effective in treating cancer, they work differently. Avastin is a drug that blocks the growth of new blood vessels, while Lucentin helps to shrink tumors. If you are considering one of these drugs as part of your cancer treatment plan, it is important to understand the difference between them.
