Axitinib
Indications
Axitinib is a targeted cancer medicine used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) in adults. It is used after another treatment has failed, or as first treatment in combination with an immunotherapy medicine such as Pembrolizumab or Avelumab.
How It Works
Tumours need new blood vessels to grow. Axitinib blocks VEGF receptors, proteins that signal 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 by mouth twice a day, about 12 hours apart, with or without food, exactly as prescribed by the cancer specialist. Swallow tablets whole with water. The doctor may increase, lower or pause the dose depending on how well it is tolerated and on blood pressure. If you vomit or miss a dose, do not take an extra dose; take the next one at the usual time.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as Ketoconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir and grapefruit juice raise axitinib levels.
- Strong inducers such as Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine and St John's Wort lower its effect.
- Tell the doctor about blood thinners such as Warfarin because of bleeding risk.
Contraindications
- Allergy to axitinib.
- Untreated brain metastases or recent serious bleeding, as judged by the doctor.
Side Effects
Common effects include high blood pressure, diarrhoea, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, voice changes (hoarseness), redness and soreness of the palms and soles (hand-foot syndrome), weight loss, protein in the urine and low thyroid function.
Get urgent medical help for very high blood pressure with severe headache, confusion or vision changes, seizures, chest pain, sudden weakness or trouble speaking, severe bleeding, vomiting blood or black stools, severe stomach pain, or signs of heart failure such as breathlessness and swollen legs.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Axitinib can harm an unborn baby. Women and men should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period afterwards as advised by the doctor. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for some time after the last dose.
Precautions and Warnings
- Blood pressure must be controlled before starting and checked regularly.
- Stop at least 2 days before planned surgery; wounds may heal slowly.
- Regular tests of thyroid, liver function and urine protein are needed.
Overdose
Overdose may cause severe high blood pressure, seizures and bleeding. Seek emergency medical help; treatment is supportive.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic, VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Axitinib