CABOZANTINIB
Background and Date of Approval
Cabozantinib is a targeted anticancer treatment drug that was approved for its medical use on November 2012.
Uses
Cabozantinib has been developed to treat a type of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), differentiated thyroid cancer in patients who are ineligible for radioactive iodine therapy and kidney cancer (Renal cell carcinoma) after disease progression and inadequate response to other anticancer therapies.
How is it administered?
Cabozantinib is available in the form of film-coated tablets in the doses 20mg and 60mg. Take Cabozantinib Tablet an hour before food or two hours after meals. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and do not crush or chew them.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Cabozantinib are diarrhoea, tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss, hypertension, nausea, vomiting, constipation, rash, hypothyroidism, musculoskeletal pain, abdominal pain, cough and upper respiratory tract infection. If you experience allergic reactions, unusual bruising or severe diarrhoea, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fever, or severe bleeding. During the Cabozantinib treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood counts, blood sugar, electrolytes, thyroid panel, urine test (for proteinuria) and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, problems in your heart, liver, skin, kidneys or blood disorders. Tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures. Withhold Cabozantinib treatment 3 weeks before surgery and for two weeks after surgery. Get immediate medical attention if you experience itching, yellowing eyes or skin, unusual bruising or severe diarrhoea.
Precautions
Cabozantinib may cause harm to an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. It is advised for both men and women to follow proper contraceptive methods during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of Cabozantinib Tablet. Avoid breastfeeding your baby during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose as Cabozantinib can impact the growth and development of the baby by passing into the breast milk.
Word of Advice
Monitor your blood pressure regularly and report to your physician immediately in case of high blood pressure. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines if you experience dizziness, confusion or tiredness while on treatment with Cabozantinib.
References
1. Gregory A. Brent and Ronald J. Koenig, Thyroid and Antithyroid Drugs, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 2018, 787-801. 2. Exelixis, Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Jul 2022] [Accessed on 29th Sep 2022], https://www.cabometyx.com/downloads/CABOMETYXUSPI.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Cabozantinib to work?
Cabozantinib typically takes 2 months to start showing effects.
Can you drink alcohol while on treatment with Cabozantinib?
Small amounts of alcohol do not affect the efficacy of Cabozantinib. However, it is advisable to limit alcohol intake during this treatment.
Is it safe to undergo a surgery during the treatment with Cabozantinib?
Cabozantinib is associated with increased risk of bleeding complications and poor wound healing. Tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures. Your physician will suggest discontinuation of Cabozantinib Tablet 3 weeks before and for 2 weeks after surgical procedure.
Do the side effects of Cabozantinib last for a chronic period?
All the side effects that are relatively caused by Cabozantinib occur until the drug concentration stays in the body. It is found that the effects of this medicine will remain in your body for almost 2 weeks after the final dose.
What should you not take with Cabozantinib?
It is not recommended to take grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on treatment with Cabozantinib. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription medicines, over the counter drugs, vitamins or herbal supplements.
When should you notify your physician?
Get in touch with your healthcare provider immediately if you experience shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fever, or severe bleeding .
How should you store Cabozantinib?
Store Cabozantinib tablets at room temperature, away from the reach of children.