Sunitinib
Written By Dr. Anuj Saini
Reviewed By Dr. Varun GuptaLast updated 18 Feb 2020 | 11:52 AM (UTC)
Sunitinib Uses
Sunitinib is used in the treatment of kidney cancer and gastrointestinal stromal tumour.
How Sunitinib works
Sunitinib is an anti-cancer medication. It works by binding and blocking certain cell surface protein (tyrosine kinase) responsible for the propagation of cancer growth. It also restricts the growth of new blood vessels within the tumor. This is how it prevents the proliferation of malignant cancers.
Common side effects of Sunitinib
Nausea1a, Vomiting, Weakness, Edema (swelling), Rash, Abdominal pain, Discoloration of skin, Fatigue, Fever, Dry skin, Bleeding, High blood pressure, Diarrhea, Constipation, Painful blisters on hands and feet, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Hair discoloration, Pain in extremity, Back pain, Headache, Joint pain, Weight loss, Cough, Taste change, Indigestion, Breathlessness
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Expert advice for Sunitinib
- Sunitinib is used for the treatment of thyroid cancer.
- Take it with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
- Diarrhea may occur as a side effect. Drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
- Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for a month after you stop taking it.
- It may affect wound healing time. Be careful while shaving, cutting fingernails or toenails, or using sharp objects.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure such as severe headache, confusion, problems with your eyesight, nausea or vomiting.
- Monitoring of thyroid gland function is required while taking this medicine. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of weight gain, dry skin, and hair.
- It may cause serious bleeding problem. Inform your doctor if you get headaches, stomach pain or if you notice blood in your urine or stools.
- Inform your doctor about the consumption of Sunitinib before going for surgical procedure.
- Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.