Sorafenib

Renal Cell Carcinoma, Hepatocellular Carcinoma ... show more

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

Kinase Inhibitor

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

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Drug Ingredient

Sorafenib

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Summary

  • Sorafenib is used to treat certain types of cancer, including advanced renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and differentiated thyroid carcinoma. It's typically used when surgery or other treatments are not effective.

  • Sorafenib is a kinase inhibitor. It blocks the action of certain proteins involved in cancer cell growth and division. By inhibiting these proteins, Sorafenib helps slow the spread of cancer cells and reduces tumor growth. It targets both tumor cells and the blood vessels that supply them.

  • The usual daily dose for adults taking Sorafenib is 400 mg taken orally twice a day without food, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. The safety and effectiveness of Sorafenib in children have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for pediatric patients.

  • Common side effects of Sorafenib include diarrhea, fatigue, and hand-foot skin reaction. Serious adverse effects can include cardiovascular events, bleeding, hypertension, and liver injury. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

  • Sorafenib has the risk of cardiovascular events, bleeding, hypertension, and dermatologic toxicities. It is contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to Sorafenib or its components and in combination with certain chemotherapy drugs in patients with squamous cell lung cancer. Patients should be monitored for liver function, blood pressure, and signs of bleeding.

Indications and Purpose

How does one know if Sorafenib is working?

The benefit of Sorafenib is evaluated through regular medical appointments and laboratory tests. Doctors will monitor the patient's response to treatment, including tumor size and progression, as well as any side effects experienced. Blood pressure and liver function tests are also conducted to ensure the medication is working effectively and safely.

How does Sorafenib work?

Sorafenib is a kinase inhibitor that blocks the action of certain proteins involved in cancer cell growth and division. By inhibiting these proteins, Sorafenib helps slow the spread of cancer cells and reduces tumor growth. It targets both tumor cells and the blood vessels that supply them.

Is Sorafenib effective?

Sorafenib has been shown to be effective in treating hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to prolong progression-free survival and, in some cases, overall survival in patients with these cancers. The effectiveness is supported by statistically significant results in these studies.

What is Sorafenib?

Sorafenib is used to treat certain types of cancer, including advanced renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and differentiated thyroid carcinoma. It works by inhibiting specific proteins that promote cancer cell growth and spread, thereby slowing tumor progression. Sorafenib is taken orally and is typically used when surgery or other treatments are not effective.

What is Sorafenib used for?

Sorafenib is indicated for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, and differentiated thyroid carcinoma that is refractory to radioactive iodine treatment. It is used when these cancers cannot be treated effectively with surgery or other standard therapies.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Sorafenib?

Sorafenib is typically used as long as the patient is clinically benefiting from the therapy or until unacceptable toxicity occurs. The duration can vary based on individual response and tolerance to the medication.

How do I take Sorafenib?

Take Sorafenib orally twice a day without food, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Avoid high-fat meals, as they can reduce the medication's effectiveness. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and maintain a consistent schedule for taking the medication.

How should I store Sorafenib?

Store Sorafenib in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it away from excess heat and moisture, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom.

What is the usual dose of Sorafenib?

The usual daily dose for adults taking Sorafenib is 400 mg taken orally twice a day without food, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. The safety and effectiveness of Sorafenib in children have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for pediatric patients.

Warnings and Precautions

Can I take Sorafenib with other prescription drugs?

Sorafenib can interact with several medications, including warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding. It should not be used with certain chemotherapy drugs in patients with squamous cell lung cancer. Additionally, drugs that affect liver enzymes, such as CYP3A4 inducers, can alter Sorafenib's effectiveness. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.

Can Sorafenib be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Women should not breastfeed while taking Sorafenib and for 2 weeks after the last dose. There is a potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, as Sorafenib may be present in breast milk.

Can Sorafenib be taken safely while pregnant?

Sorafenib may cause fetal harm and is not recommended during pregnancy. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. Men with female partners of reproductive potential should use contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. If pregnancy occurs, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Sorafenib safe for the elderly?

No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients taking Sorafenib. However, as with any medication, elderly patients may be more sensitive to its effects. Regular monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider are important to ensure safe use.

Who should avoid taking Sorafenib?

Important warnings for Sorafenib include the risk of cardiovascular events, bleeding, hypertension, and dermatologic toxicities. It is contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to Sorafenib or its components and in combination with certain chemotherapy drugs in patients with squamous cell lung cancer. Patients should be monitored for liver function, blood pressure, and signs of bleeding.