Edrecolomab (Panorex)

This medication was never approved by the FDA, but was the first monoclonal antibody approved for a cancer indication, in Germany (1995).

Mechanism of action

From the NCI Drug Dictionary: A murine monoclonal IgG2a antibody to tumor-associated epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM, or 17-1A) antigen. Edrecolomab attaches to EpCAM, a human cell surface glycoprotein that is found on normal epithelial cells and some tumor cells, such as those of colon and breast carcinomas. Upon binding, this agent recruits the body's immune effector cells, which may exhibit antitumor cytotoxicity.

Diseases for which it was used

• Colon cancer

Also known as

• Brand name: Panorex