Cetuximab and Weed
Edited by Hugh Soames
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Cetuximab and Weed
Most people who consume marijuana do so for its mood-altering and relaxing abilities. Weed gives people a high and allows them to relax. However, heavy consumption of weed can cause unwanted results. It can increase the anxiety and depression a person experiences, and it can interact with certain other drugs including Cetuximab. It is important to remember that interactions do occur with all types of drugs, to a great or lesser extent and this article details the interactions of mixing Cetuximab and Weed.
Mixing Cetuximab and Weed
Cetuximab, sold under the brand name Erbitux, is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor medication used for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer and head and neck cancer. Cetuximab is a chimeric (mouse/human) monoclonal antibody given by intravenous infusion.
In July 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved cetuximab (Erbitux) for treatment of colon cancer with wild-type KRAS, since it had little or no effect in colorectal tumors harboring a KRAS mutation (this also applied to the EGFR antibody panitumumab). This was the first genetic test to guide treatment of cancer. In July 2012, the FDA approved a real time PCR companion diagnostic test for KRAS, the therascreen KRAS test.
In the US, cetuximab is indicated for treatment of head and neck cancer and colorectal cancer.
In the EU, cetuximab is indicated for the treatment of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing, RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer and for the treatment of squamous cell cancer of the head and neck.
A diagnostic immunohistochemistry assay (EGFR pharmDx) can be used to detect EGFR expression in the tumor material. Approximately 75% of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have an EGFR-expressing tumor and are therefore considered eligible for treatment with cetuximab or panitumumab, according to FDA guidelines. Unfortunately, there is evidence that immunohistochemical EGFR receptor testing does not predict response to either cetuximab or panitumumab, so that this has been called a “misleading biomarker” that has nevertheless caused insurers and even health systems to deny payment for EGFR antibody treatment for patients who lack a positive tumor EGFR histochemical test.
Cetuximab was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2006, for use in combination with radiation therapy for treating squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) or as a single agent in patients who have had prior platinum-based therapy. The IMCL-9815 Phase III Registration Trial, the addition of cetuximab to radiotherapy improved clinical outcomes regardless of p16 or HPV status versus radiotherapy alone. However, subsequent studies and clinical trials (NRG Oncology RTOG 1016 and De-ESCALaTE HPV) suggested cetuximab was significantly inferior in overall and progression-free survival, when compared with cisplatin.
One of the more serious side effects of cetuximab therapy is the incidence of acne-like rash. This rash rarely leads to dose reductions or termination of therapy. It is generally reversible.
Further severe infusion reactions include but are not limited to: fevers, chills, rigors, urticaria, itchiness, rash, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, headache, shortness of breath, wheezing, angioedema, dizziness, anaphylaxis, and cardiac arrest. Other common side effects include photosensitivity, hypomagnesemia due to magnesium wasting, and less commonly pulmonary and cardiac toxicity.
Certain geographic regions have a high rate of anaphylactic reactions to cetuximab upon the first exposure to the medication. This is unusual because exposure to the allergen must occur before the development of an allergy. Fewer than 1% of people in the northeast United States reacted, while greater than 20% in the southeast did.
Cetuximab is a chimeric (mouse/human) monoclonal antibody which binds to and inhibits EGFR.
The KRAS gene encodes a small G protein on the EGFR pathway. Cetuximab and other EGFR inhibitors only work on tumors in which KRAS is not mutated.
In July 2009, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the labels of two anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody drugs (panitumumab (Vectibix) and cetuximab (Erbitux)) indicated for treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer to include information about KRAS mutations.
Studies have indicated that detection of KRAS gene mutations helps physicians identify patients that are unlikely to respond to treatment with targeted EGFR inhibitors, including cetuximab and panitumumab. Accordingly, genetic testing to confirm the absence of KRAS mutations (and so the presence of the KRAS wild-type gene), is now clinically routine before the start of treatment with EGFR inhibitors. mCRC patients with wild-type KRAS tumors have been shown to benefit from a response rate of over 60% and a decreased risk for progression of over 40% when treated with Erbitux as 1st-line therapy. Around 65% of mCRC patients have the KRAS wild-type gene.[medical citation needed]
There is some evidence that colorectal tumors with the KRAS G13D mutation (glycine to aspartate at codon 13) respond to EGFR inhibition (specifically, with Cetuximab). While the mechanism is still under investigation, current findings suggest that susceptibility to EGFR-inhibition is due to how this particular variant maintains interactions with the GTPase activating protein (GAP) NFI.
Observations on EGFR inhibition were published in 1988. Yeda Research, on behalf of the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, challenged the Aventis-owned patent, licensed by Imclone, for the use of anti-epidermal growth factor receptor antibodies in combination with chemotherapy, to slow the growth of certain tumors which was filed in 1989 by Rhone-Poulenc-Rorer. The court ruled that Yeda is sole owner of the patent in the U.S., while Yeda and Sanofi-Aventis co-own the patent’s foreign counterparts.
Cetuximab is given by intravenous therapy and costs up to $30,000 for eight weeks of treatment per patient.
Merck KGaA had 887 million euros ($1.15 billion) in Erbitux sales in 2012, from head and neck as well as bowel cancer, while Bristol-Myers Squibb generated $702 million in sales from the drug.
Erbitux was the eighth best-selling cancer drug of 2013, with sales of $1.87 billion.
Erbitux had 2013 worldwide sales of US$1.9 billion making it a lucrative target for biosimilars developers. Additionally the patent protection for Erbitux in Europe expired in June 2014, and in the U.S. and in Japan the protection will expire in 2016. However biosimilars of Erbitux are not expected until 2018.
As of 2014, biosimilars of cetuximab were in development by several companies.
Cetuximab failed to get FDA approval in 2001, which caused the stock price of the developer ImClone to drop dramatically. Prior to the announcement, several executives sold stock, and the SEC launched an investigation into insider trading. This resulted in a widely publicized criminal case, which resulted in prison terms for media celebrity Martha Stewart, ImClone chief executive officer Samuel D. Waksal and Stewart’s broker at Merrill Lynch, Peter Bacanovic.
The efficacy of cetuximab was explored in a clinical trial of advanced gastric cancer published in 2013; cetuximab showed no survival benefit.
A 2020 phase III multicenter randomized controlled trial headed by University College London showed that adding cetuximab to perioperative chemotherapy worsened survival for colorectal cancer patients with operable liver metastases. With over 5 years of follow-up, median overall survival (OS) dropped from 81 months for patients treated with chemotherapy alone before and after liver resection, to 55.4 months for those that also received cetuximab.
A multicenter, single arm, phase II study is being conducted that is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cetuximab for the treatment of advanced (unresectable)/metastatic, chordoma.
Research has found that anxiety is one of the leading symptoms created by marijuana in users, and that there is a correlation between Cetuximab and Weed and an increase in anxiety.
Anyone mixing Cetuximab and weed is likely to experience side effects. This happens with all medications whether weed or Cetuximab is mixed with them. Side effects can be harmful when mixing Cetuximab and weed. Doctors are likely to refuse a patient a Cetuximab prescription if the individual is a weed smoker or user. Of course, this could be due to the lack of studies and research completed on the mixing of Cetuximab and Weed.
Heavy, long-term weed use is harmful for people. It alters the brain’s functions and structure, and all pharmaceuticals and drugs including Cetuximab are designed to have an impact on the brain. There is a misplaced belief that pharmaceuticals and medication work by treating only the parts of the body affected yet this is obviously not the case in terms of Cetuximab. For example, simple painkiller medication does not heal the injury, it simply interrupts the brains functions to receive the pain cause by the injury. To say then that two drugs, Cetuximab and Weed, dol not interact is wrong. There will always be an interaction between Cetuximab and Weed in the brain11.J. D. Brown and A. G. Winterstein, Potential Adverse Drug Events and Drug–Drug Interactions with Medical and Consumer Cannabidiol (CBD) Use – PMC, PubMed Central (PMC).; Retrieved September 27, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6678684/.
One of the milder side effects of mixing Cetuximab and Weed is Scromiting. This condition, reportedly caused by mixing Cetuximab and Weed, describes a marijuana-induced condition where the user experiences episodes of violent vomiting, which are often so severe and painful that they cause the person to scream. The medical term for Scromiting by mixing Cetuximab and Weed is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, or CHS. For these reasons, some people choose to quit smoking weed.
It was first included in scientific reports in 2004. Since then, researchers have determined that Scromiting is the result of ongoing, long-term use of marijuana—particularly when the drug contains high levels of THC, marijuana’s main psychoactive ingredient. Some experts believe that the receptors in the gut become overstimulated by THC, thus causing the repeated cycles of vomiting.
In the long run, a person can become even more depressed. There is a belief that marijuana is all-natural and not harmful to a person’s health. This is not true and Cetuximab and weed can cause health issues the more a person consumes it.
How does Weed effect the potency of Cetuximab?
The way in which the body absorbs and process Cetuximab may be affected by weed. Therefore, the potency of the Cetuximab may be less effective. Marijuana inhibits the metabolization of Cetuximab. Not having the right potency of Cetuximab means a person may either have a delay in the relief of their underlying symptoms.
A person seeking Cetuximab medication that uses weed should speak to their doctor. It is important the doctor knows about a patient’s weed use, so they can prescribe the right Cetuximab medication and strength. Or depending on level of interactions they may opt to prescribe a totally different medication. It is important for the doctor to know about their patient’s marijuana use. Weed is being legalized around the US, so doctors should be open to speaking about a patient’s use of it.
Sideffects of Cetuximab and Weed
Many individuals may not realize that there are side effects and consequences to mixing Cetuximab and Weed such as:
- Dizziness
- Sluggishness
- Drowsiness
- Shortness of breath
- Itching
- Hives
- Palpitations
- Respiratory Depression
- Cardiac Arrest
- Coma
- Seizures
- Death
Interestingly, it is impossible to tell what effect mixing this substance with Weed will have on an individual due to their own unique genetic make up and tolerance. It is never advisable to mix Cetuximab and Weed due to the chances of mild, moderate and severe side effects. If you are having an adverse reaction from mixing Cetuximab and Weed it’s imperative that you head to your local emergency room. Even mixing a small amount of Cetuximab and Weed is not recommended.
Taking Cetuximab and Weed together
People who take Cetuximab and Weed together will experience the effects of both substances. Technically, the specific effects and reactions that occur due to frequent use of Cetuximab and weed depend on whether you consume more weed in relation to Cetuximab or more Cetuximab in relation to weed.
The use of significantly more weed and Cetuximab will lead to sedation and lethargy, as well as the synergistic effects resulting from a mixture of the two medications.
People who take both weed and Cetuximab may experience effects such as:
- reduced motor reflexes from Cetuximab and Weed
- dizziness from Weed and Cetuximab
- nausea and vomiting due to Cetuximab and Weed
Some people may also experience more euphoria, depression, irritability or all three. A combination of weed and Cetuximab leads to significantly more lethargy which can easily tip over into coma, respiratory depression seizures and death.
Mixing weed and Cetuximab
The primary effect of weed is influenced by an increase in the concentration of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which is found in the spinal cord and brain stem, and by a reduction in its effect on neuronal transmitters. When weed is combined with Cetuximab this primary effect is exaggerated, increasing the strain on the body with unpredictable results.
Weed and Cetuximab affects dopamine levels in the brain, causing the body both mental and physical distress. Larger amounts of Cetuximab and weed have a greater adverse effect yet leading medical recommendation is that smaller does of Cetuximab can be just as harmful and there is no way of knowing exactly how Cetuximab and weed is going to affect an individual before they take it.
Taking Cetuximab and weed together
People who take Cetuximab and weed together will experience the effects of both substances. The use of significantly more Cetuximab with weed will lead to sedation and lethargy, as well as the synergistic effects resulting from a mixture of the two medications.
People who take both weed and Cetuximab may experience effects such as:
- reduced motor reflexes from Cetuximab and weed
- dizziness from weed and Cetuximab
- nausea and vomiting of the Cetuximab
Some people may also experience more euphoria, depression, irritability or all three. A combination of weed and Cetuximab leads to significantly more lethargy which can easily tip over into coma, respiratory depression seizures and death.
Weed Vs Cetuximab
Taking Cetuximab in sufficient quantities increases the risk of a heart failure. Additionally, people under the influence of Cetuximab and weed may have difficulty forming new memories. With weed vs Cetuximab in an individual’s system they become confused and do not understand their environment. Due to the synergistic properties of Cetuximab when mixed with weed it can lead to confusion, anxiety, depression and other mental disorders. Chronic use of Cetuximab and weed can lead to permanent changes in the brain22.G. Lafaye, L. Karila, L. Blecha and A. Benyamina, Cannabis, cannabinoids, and health – PMC, PubMed Central (PMC).; Retrieved September 27, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5741114/.
Cetuximab Vs Weed
Studies investigating the effects of drugs such as Cetuximab and weed have shown that the potential for parasomnia (performing tasks in sleep) is dramatically increased when Cetuximab and weed are combined. Severe and dangerous side effects can occur when medications are mixed in the system, and sleep disorders are a common side effect of taking weed and Cetuximab together.
When a small to medium amount of weed is combined with Cetuximab, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can occur. According to the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) most ER visits and hospitalizations caused by too much weed were associated with other substances such as Cetuximab.
How long after taking Cetuximab can I smoke weed or take edibles?
To avoid any residual toxicity it is advisable to wait until the Cetuximab has totally cleared your system before taking weed, even in small quantities.
Overdose on Cetuximab and weed
In the case of Overdose on Cetuximab or if you are worried after mixing Cetuximab and weed, call a first responder or proceed to the nearest Emergency Room immediately.
If you are worried about someone who has taken too much Cetuximab or mixed weed with Cetuximab then call a first responder or take them to get immediate medical help. The best place for you or someone you care about in the case of a medical emergency is under medical supervision. Be sure to tell the medical team that there is a mix of Cetuximab and weed in their system.
Excessive Weed intake and result in scromiting, chs, and anxiety disorder. It is advisable to quit vaping weed if you are feeling these symptoms.
Mixing Cetuximab and weed and antidepressants
Weed users feeling depressed and anxious may be prescribed antidepressant medication. There are some antidepressant users who also use Cetuximab and weed. These individuals may not realize that there are side effects and consequences to consuming both Cetuximab, marijuana and a range of antidepressants.
Studies on weed, Cetuximab and antidepressants is almost nil. The reason for so little information on the side effects of the two is mostly down to marijuana being illegal in most places – although a number of states in the United States have legalized the drug.
Self-medicating with Weed and Cetuximab
A lot of people suffer from depression caused by weed and Cetuximab. How many? According to Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), in any given year, it is estimated that nearly 16 million adults experience depression. Unfortunately, that number is likely to be wrong due to under reporting. Many people do not report suffering from depression because they do not want to be looked at as suffering from a mental illness. The stigmas around mental health continue and people do not want to be labeled as depressed.
Potential side effects from mixing Cetuximab and weed
Quitting weed to take Cetuximab
Medical professionals say an individual prescribed or taking Cetuximab should not stop using weed cold turkey. Withdrawal symptoms can be significant. Heavy pot users should especially avoid going cold turkey. The side effects of withdrawal from weed include anxiety, irritability, loss of sleep, change of appetite, and depression by quitting weed cold turkey and starting to take Cetuximab.
A person beginning to use Cetuximab should cut back on weed slowly. While reducing the amount of weed use, combine it with mindfulness techniques and/or yoga. Experts stress that non-medication can greatly improve a person’s mood.
Weed and Cetuximab can affect a person in various ways. Different types of marijuana produce different side effects. Side effects of weed and Cetuximab may include:
- loss of motor skills
- poor or lack of coordination
- lowered blood pressure
- short-term memory loss
- increased heart rate
- increased blood pressure
- anxiety
- paranoia
- increased energy
- increased motivation
Mixing Cetuximab and weed can also produce hallucinations in users. This makes marijuana a hallucinogenic for some users. Weed creates different side effects in different people, making it a very potent drug. Now, mixing Cetuximab or other mental health drugs with weed can cause even more unwanted side effects.
Mixing drugs and weed conclusion
Long-term weed use can make depression and anxiety worse. In addition, using marijuana can prevent Cetuximab from working to their full potential33.J. D. Brown and A. G. Winterstein, Potential Adverse Drug Events and Drug–Drug Interactions with Medical and Consumer Cannabidiol (CBD) Use – PMC, PubMed Central (PMC).; Retrieved September 27, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6678684/. Weed consumption should be reduced gradually to get the most out of prescription medication. Marijuana is a drug and it is harmful to individual’s long-term health. Weed has many side effects and the consequences are different to each person who uses it, especially when mixed with Cetuximab.
If you take Cetuximab, and also drink Alcohol or MDMA, you can research the effects of Cetuximab and Alcohol , Cetuximab and Cocaine as well as Cetuximab and MDMA here.
To find the effects of other drugs and weed refer to our Weed and Other Drugs Index A to L or our Weed and Other Drugs Index M-Z.
Or you could find what you are looking for in our Alcohol and Interactions with Other Drugs index A to L or Alcohol and Interactions with Other Drugs index M to Z , Cocaine and Interactions with Other Drugs index A to L or Cocaine and Interactions with Other Drugs index M to Z or our MDMA and Interactions with Other Drugs Index A to L or MDMA and Interactions with Other Drugs Index M to Z.
Cetuximab and Weed
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