What type of medication is Bevacizumab?

Bevacizumab is classified as a monoclonal antibody, specifically designed to target and inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which plays a significant role in angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). By binding to VEGF, Bevacizumab prevents it from interacting with its receptors on endothelial cells, thereby inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and metastasize.

This mechanism is crucial in cancer treatment, as tumors often rely on angiogenesis to thrive. By blocking this process, Bevacizumab can help to slow the growth of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, lung, and breast cancers. Its specificity and ability to target a particular pathway in cancer growth illustrate why it is categorized within monoclonal antibodies rather than as a natural antibody or synthetic compound. Additionally, while Bevacizumab is utilized within the antineoplastic category due to its role in cancer therapy, the designation of monoclonal antibody specifically highlights its structure and mechanism of action.