Pazopanib is a targeted therapy. It is classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. Pazopanib is used for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and soft tissue sarcoma.
The amount of pazopanib that the patient will receive depends on many factors including his/her general health or other health problems and the type of cancer or condition they have. The doctor will determine the patient’s exact pazopanib dosage and schedule.
- Pazopanib is given in tablet form, to be taken by mouth on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating
The following Pazopanib side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking pazopanib (all grades)
- Diarrhea
- Hypertension
- Hair color changes
- Low blood counts (low white blood cells, low platelets)
- Elevated liver function tests (AST ALT)
- Elevated bilirubin level
- Blood test abnormalities (low phosphorus, low sodium increased glucose)
The following are less common side effects (occurring in 10-29%) for patients receiving pazopanib
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Poor appetite
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Blood test abnormalities
- Low Magnesium
- Low Glucose – Low Blood Sugar
The above-mentioned list includes common and less common side effects for those taking pazopanib. Furthermore, it has very rare side effects – occurring in less than about 10 percent of patients – that are not listed here. Always inform your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Grade 3-4 toxicities are clinically significant
Fatigue – 13%
Hypertension and diarrhea- less than 7%
We recommend BP monitoring once in 4 days for an initial period of 2 months. Besides this, Indian patients have more hand-foot syndrome, so they should keep them moist by applying cream and wearing soft shoes.
In case of other queries please see our team.
Pantoprazole should be avoided in patients who take pazopanib, as it lowers the effectiveness of the drug.
