SORAFENIB
Background and Date of Approval
Sorafenib is an antiangiogenic agent approved for medical use on 20 December 2005.
Uses
Sorafenib has been developed to treat locally advanced and metastatic kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma), thyroid cancer (progressive differentiated thyroid carcinoma) and liver cancer (unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma) after disease progression and inadequate response to other anticancer therapies.
How is it administered?
Sorafenib is available in the form of film-coated tablets in the dose 200mg. The usual recommended adult dose is 800mg of Sorafenib a day. Take this tablet at the same time each day after a low-fat meal.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Sorafenib are acne, breathlessness, changes in taste, hair loss, flu-like symptoms, constipation, dehydration, depression, diarrhoea, impotence, nausea, vomiting, weakness, tiredness, heartburn, hoarseness in voice, indigestion, weight loss, pain and inflammation. If you experience severe skin reactions, changes in the appearance or texture of the skin, chest pain/pressure, heavy sweating, numbness, or confusion, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, infection, or severe bleeding. During the Sorafenib 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, nutrient deficiencies, hypertension, problems in your heart, liver, skin, kidneys or blood disorders. Tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures while on treatment with Sorafenib.
Precautions
Sorafenib impairs fertility in male and female patients. It is not known if Sorafenib harms 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 and two weeks after the last dose of Sorafenib. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are on the treatment as it is not known if Sorafenib passes into the breast milk.
Word of Advice
Sorafenib may cause dizziness and weakness. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if experiencing dizziness, confusion or fatigue during treatment with sorafenib. Adequate water intake is recommended to help prevent dehydration.
References
Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Pathway-Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203-1236. Bayer Inc., [Revised on 27th Sep 2022] [Accessed on 8th Oct 2022], https://www.bayer.com/sites/default/files/2020-11/nexavar-pm-en.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should you follow while on treatment with Sorafenib?
Do not receive vaccination or immunization without consulting your doctor while on treatment with Sorafenib.
What tests will you undergo while on treatment with Sorafenib?
Your healthcare provider will suggest tests to measure complete blood count, electrolytes, thyroid, liver, kidney parameters, ECG and blood pressure.
Is it safe to undergo a surgery during the treatment with Sorafenib?
The effect of Sorafenib on wound healing is not known. Hence it is suggested to avoid planning for surgery and as a precautionary measure tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures.
What should you do if you overdose on Sorafenib Tablet?
The highest recommended dose of Sorafenib is 800mg per day. Possible adverse reactions at this dose include hypertension, breathlessness and skin reactions. If you have taken an extra dose of Sorafenib Tablet, report to your healthcare provider right away and go to the emergency department of a hospital.
What should you not take with Sorafenib?
It is not recommended to eat foods high in fat content while on treatment with Sorafenib. Tell your healthcare provider before taking Sorafenib 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 fever > 100ËF, shortness of breath, numbness, infection, or severe bleeding.
How should you store Sorafenib?
Store Sorafenib tablets between 15-30ËC in a dry place, away from the reach of children.