Indications
Tivozanib is an anticancer medicine used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer) in adults, usually when the cancer has spread or has come back after earlier treatment. It is prescribed and monitored by a cancer specialist (oncologist).
How It Works
Tumours need new blood vessels to grow. Tivozanib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors, the signals that tell the body to build these vessels. By cutting off the tumour’s blood supply, it slows the growth and spread of the cancer.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed by your oncologist. It is usually taken as one capsule once a day for 21 days, followed by 7 days without treatment, and this 28 day cycle is repeated. Swallow the capsule whole with water, with or without food, at about the same time each day. If you miss a dose, do not take an extra dose; take the next dose at the usual time. Your doctor may pause treatment or lower the dose if side effects occur.
Interactions
Strong enzyme inducers such as Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and St John’s Wort can lower Tivozanib levels and make it less effective. Tell your doctor about all medicines, including herbal products, especially blood thinners such as Warfarin and medicines that affect heart rhythm.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Tivozanib or any ingredient of the capsule.
- Use together with St John’s Wort.
- Not for use without specialist supervision.
Side Effects
Common side effects include high blood pressure, tiredness, diarrhoea, nausea, loss of appetite, hoarse voice, mouth soreness, cough, and redness or pain on the palms and soles. Thyroid function may fall, and protein may appear in the urine.
Get urgent medical help for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, signs of stroke (weakness on one side, trouble speaking), very high blood pressure with severe headache, unusual bleeding, black stools, severe stomach pain, or a wound that will not heal.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Tivozanib can harm an unborn baby. Women who could become pregnant and men with such partners should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after the last dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for one month after the last dose.
Precautions and Warnings
Blood pressure should be controlled before starting and checked regularly. Treatment is usually stopped before planned surgery because it slows wound healing. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, a history of blood clots, bleeding problems, liver disease or thyroid problems. Regular blood and urine tests are needed.
Overdose
An overdose may cause severe high blood pressure and other serious side effects. Contact a doctor or go to the nearest hospital straight away and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic agent; VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep in the original pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.