Sunitinib
Uses of Sunitinib
Sunitinib is commonly used to treat Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour, Kidney Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer.
How Sunitinib Works
Sunitinib is an anticancer agent which is able to inhibit the signal transduction pathways and mediators which are involved in tumour growth and metastatic progression of the gastrointestinal stromal tumour, kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer.
Side Effects of Sunitinib
Reduced white blood cells/red blood cells/platelets, Hypothyroidism, Decreased appetite, Insomnia, Headache, Dizziness, Taste disturbances, Hypertension, Shortness of breath, Spontaneous nose bleed, Hand and foot skin reaction, Gut disturbances, Heart arrhythmia
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Sunitinib is safe to be used in patients with kidney impairment and indicated to be used for renal cell carcinoma.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Consumption of alcohol may accentuate the gut disturbances caused by Sunitinib. Thus, it is not advisable to consume alcohol while receiving treatment of Sunitinib. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicities but there are no data on the use of Sunitinib in pregnant women. Thus, it is not advisable to be used during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Sunitinib may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness or fatigue, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
No dose adjustment needed for patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. However, Sunitinib is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment.
Lactation Not Advisable
Animal studies have shown the excretion of Sunitinib in animal milk but it is not known in human milk. Thus, it is not advisable to be used during breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
