| Common Brands | Cabometyx, Cometriq |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Cabozantinib is an anticancer drug with targeted therapy, which is used for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Cabozantinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks all signals that enable cancerous cells to multiply, expand, and propagate. By inhibiting the multiple receptors associated with cancer cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis, cabozantinib slows down the development of cancer.
Cabozantinib is sold under the brand names Cometriq for MTC and Cabometyx for RCC and HCC. The medication is prescribed for those patients whose cancer has progressed or has not responded to other types of treatments.
Cabozantinib is usually taken orally in the form of tablets. It is usually prescribed by an oncologist or other cancer specialist. The exact dosage and treatment schedule depend on the specific type of cancer being treated, the patient’s condition, and the treatment response.
For Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The usual starting dose is 60 mg once daily.
For Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC): The recommended dose is typically 140 mg once daily.
Cabozantinib should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food. The tablets should be swallowed whole, without crushing or chewing.
Patients should adhere to the doctor’s prescriptions and see a doctor for regular follow-up appointments to observe side effects and assess treatment efficacy.
Cabozantinib acts through the inhibition of multiple tyrosine kinases. Tyrosine kinases are the enzymes that play a vital role in the regulation of several cellular functions, such as growth, survival, and movement. The primary targets of cabozantinib are:
VEGFR (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor): It plays a role in the process of angiogenesis by which the tumor develops new blood vessels to support its growth.
MET (Hepatocyte Growth Factor Receptor): It plays a role in cancer cell growth, survival, and metastasis.
AXL: It plays a role in the invasion, survival, and drug resistance of tumor cells.
PDGFR (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor): It supports the proliferation and survival of tumor cells.
By blocking these receptors, cabozantinib effectively reduces tumor cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, all of which are crucial for cancer progression and metastasis.
Side effects of cabozantinib can be mild or severe. Not all patients develop these side effects,
Liver problems: The liver enzymes or function of the liver may be elevated so monitoring should be done with treatment.
Bleeding: Patients are at an increased risk for bleeding. This includes nose bleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding and blood in urine.
Hand-foot syndrome: A condition where patients develop redness, pain, and peeling of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Perforations or fistulas (holes in the gastrointestinal tract)
Heart problems: Including heart failure, especially in those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Patients should report any new or unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.
Hypertension: Cabozantinib can cause high blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, and medications may be required to manage hypertension during treatment.
Liver function: Cabozantinib can affect liver function, so liver enzymes should be monitored throughout treatment, especially in patients with preexisting liver conditions.
Gastrointestinal perforations and fistulas: Cabozantinib has been related with serious and potentially fatal complications, including gastrointestinal perforation and fistula. Prompt medical attention should be sought in cases of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Wound healing: Cabozantinib can impact the healing of wounds. This drug must be stopped at least 4 weeks prior to surgery and may only be resumed once adequate healing of wounds has occurred.
Bleeding risks: Cabozantinib has increased the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in patients who have a history of bleeding disorders or those who are under anticoagulant drugs.
Proteinuria: Urine protein levels must be monitored because high levels indicate a possible kidney problem.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir may increase cabozantinib levels, potentially leading to increased toxicity. Dose adjustments are recommended.
CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs such as rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin can reduce cabozantinib levels, decreasing its effectiveness. Close monitoring and possible dosage adjustments are necessary.
Anticoagulants: Cabozantinib can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with anticoagulants like warfarin. Monitoring of coagulation parameters is crucial.
P-glycoprotein Inhibitors: Inhibitors like verapamil may increase the absorption of cabozantinib, possibly enhancing its side effects, so dose adjustments and monitoring are advised.
RCC and HCC:
The typical starting dose is 60 mg once daily.
MTC:
The recommended dose is 140 mg once daily.
Dosage adjustments may be required based on tolerability and the occurrence of side effects. It should always be followed by the dosing schedule as prescribed, reporting any side effects to the healthcare provider.
Cabozantinib is a prescription-only drug. Therefore, it should be prescribed by an oncologist or a healthcare provider with experience in the treatment of cancer. A proper medical evaluation, which includes assessment of liver function, kidney function, and blood pressure, should be done before the treatment begins.
Regular monitoring throughout treatment is required to assess the effectiveness of the drug and manage any potential side effects. This may include blood tests to monitor liver enzymes, kidney function, and proteinuria.
What is Cabozantinib?
Cabozantinib is a targeted therapy drug used primarily in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including advanced kidney cancer and liver cancer.
How does Cabozantinib work?
It works by inhibiting multiple kinases involved in tumor growth, angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and metastasis (the spread of cancer). This includes blocking the activity of receptors like MET, VEGFR, and AXL.
What types of cancer is Cabozantinib approved to treat?
It is approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer), hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), and medullary thyroid carcinoma.
Can Cabozantinib be used for other cancers?
While primarily approved for specific cancers, it is being researched for other malignancies, including prostate and colorectal cancers.
How is Cabozantinib administered?
Cabozantinib is taken orally in the form of a tablet, typically once daily on an empty stomach.
What is the recommended dosage of Cabozantinib?
The dosage may vary based on the type of cancer being treated. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and adjust based on tolerance and response.
What are the common side effects of Cabozantinib?
Common side effects can include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, weight loss, and hypertension.
Are there any serious side effects associated with Cabozantinib?
Yes, serious side effects can include liver toxicity, gastrointestinal perforations, and severe bleeding. Patients should monitor for symptoms like jaundice or severe abdominal pain.
How often should patients taking Cabozantinib be monitored?
Regular monitoring is essential, especially during the first few months of treatment, to assess liver function, blood pressure, and overall tolerability of the medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Cabozantinib?
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it’s near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Can Cabozantinib interact with other medications?
Yes, Cabozantinib can interact with a range of medications, including those metabolized by certain liver enzymes. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
Are there specific foods or substances to avoid while taking Cabozantinib?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided, as they can increase levels of Cabozantinib in the blood, leading to enhanced side effects.
How effective is Cabozantinib in treating advanced kidney cancer?
Clinical studies have demonstrated that Cabozantinib can significantly improve survival rates in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma compared to other treatments.
How long does it usually take to see results from Cabozantinib?
Patients may start to see results within several weeks of starting treatment, but individual responses vary. Regular follow-up is essential to evaluate progress.
Who should not take Cabozantinib?
Cabozantinib may not be suitable for individuals with severe liver impairment or those with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. Pregnant or nursing women should also avoid it.
What should patients discuss with their healthcare team before starting Cabozantinib?
Patients should discuss their medical history, other medications, potential allergies, and any specific concerns about their cancer or treatment goals.
Are there patient assistance programs for Cabozantinib?
Yes, there are assistance programs available to help eligible patients afford Cabozantinib. Healthcare providers can often provide information on how to access these resources.
Where can I find more information about Cabozantinib?
Detailed information can be found on the official drug manufacturers’ websites, reputable cancer organizations, and through discussions with healthcare providers.
Is there ongoing research involving Cabozantinib?
Yes, ongoing clinical trials are exploring its effectiveness in various cancers and combinations with other therapies, aiming to enhance treatment outcomes.
What are some potential future uses being studied for Cabozantinib?
Researchers are investigating Cabozantinib’s role in combination therapies for diseases such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other solid tumors, looking to broaden its application in oncology.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a widespread chronic inflammatory skin disorder that primarily affects the head, scalp, and upper trunk, which are areas rich in sebaceous glands. Despite not being a fatal illness, the chronic nature of the disorder and its frequent flare-ups can greatly lower the person’s standard of life. The goal of this thorough investigation
For a considerable time, both scientists and medical experts have been fascinated by the connection between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. The gut-brain axis is a concept that has emerged from emerging research that highlights the deep relationship between both of these seemingly different organs. We will explore the elements, functions, and consequences associated
Food intolerances are becoming more widely acknowledged as serious health issues impacting people all over the world. In contrast to food allergies, which are immune system-related, food intolerances usually refer to the body’s incapacity to properly digest specific substances or dietary ingredients. This thorough review explores several kinds of food intolerances, such as fructose malabsorption,
