Ramucirumab is a VEGF receptor 2 antagonist that binds to the VEGF receptor and prevents the binding of VEGF. This inhibits VEGF-stimulated cellular proliferation and the migration of endothelial cells. In animal models, ramucirumab inhibits angiogenesis.

Ramucirumab has indications for the treatment of gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and CRC. In CRC, in combination with FOLFIRI (irinotecan, folinic acid, and 5-fluorouracil), ramucirumab is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer with disease progression on or after prior therapy with bevacizumab, oxaliplatin, and a fluoropyrimidine.

As with the other VEGF inhibitors, ramucirumab has boxed warnings associated with its use related to the potential for hemorrhage, gastrointestinal perforation, and compromised wound healing.