Anti-Angiogenesis Side Effects

Anti-angiogenesis drugs, also called angiogenesis inhibitors, stop cancer growth by preventing the formation of new blood vessels that feed cancer cells.

Significance

• Anti-angiogenesis drugs do not harm normal cells like chemotherapy drugs, and their side effects are relatively milder.

Immune System

• The biggest side effect of anti-angiogenesis drugs is weakening of the immune system, which can lead to infections. A weak immune system also prevents wounds from healing properly.

Bleeding

• The majority of anti-angiogenesis drugs may cause internal bleeding and tears in the stomach and intestines. Although this is rarely fatal, it can be a serious problem for people who have a history of such problems.

Blood Pressure

• Some anti-angiogenesis drugs cause increase in blood pressure. A course of blood pressure drugs can treat this problem. People with a history of heart disease and blood pressure problems may be unable to take angiogenesis inhibitors.

Surgery

• People undergoing surgery should stop anti-angiogenesis therapy for a few weeks before and after surgery to allow proper healing.

Pregnancy

• Pregnant women or hose expecting to become pregnant should not take anti-angiogenesis drugs because they may be harmful to the fetus.