List of adverse effects of pazopanib

Pazopanib is a medication used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including renal cell carcinoma and soft tissue sarcoma. As with any medication, pazopanib can cause a range of adverse effects, which can vary in severity from mild to life-threatening. This article aims to provide a comprehensive list of the known adverse effects associated with the use of pazopanib, categorized by their frequency and severity.

Common Adverse Effects

The most commonly reported adverse effects of pazopanib include, but are not limited to:

• Hypertension: High blood pressure is a frequent side effect, requiring monitoring and management during pazopanib therapy.
• Diarrhea: Many patients experience gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea.
• Hair color changes: A unique side effect where patients may notice lightening or whitening of the hair.
• Nausea and vomiting: Gastrointestinal upset is common, though it can often be managed with medication.
• Fatigue: Patients may feel unusually tired or weak during treatment.
• Anorexia: Loss of appetite can occur, potentially leading to weight loss.

Less Common but Serious Adverse Effects

While less frequent, pazopanib can also cause more severe adverse effects, including:

• Hepatotoxicity: Liver damage or liver failure, which can be fatal. Regular liver function tests are recommended.
• Cardiotoxicity: Heart problems, including heart failure, can occur.
• Thromboembolic events: Increased risk of blood clots, leading to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Hemorrhage: An increased risk of bleeding, both internally and externally.
• QT prolongation: A heart rhythm disorder that can lead to serious heart problems.
• Hand-foot syndrome: A condition causing redness, pain, and swelling of the hands and feet.

Rare Adverse Effects

Rarely, pazopanib can cause:

• Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS): A rare disorder that can cause seizures, headache, confusion, and blindness.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism have been reported.

Monitoring and Management

Patients receiving pazopanib should be closely monitored for the development of adverse effects. This includes regular blood pressure checks, liver function tests, and monitoring for signs of heart problems or bleeding. Many of the adverse effects of pazopanib can be managed through dose adjustment, supportive care, or the use of additional medications.

Conclusion

While pazopanib is an effective treatment for certain types of cancer, it is associated with a wide range of adverse effects. Patients and healthcare providers should work closely together to monitor for these effects and manage them appropriately. This list is incomplete; you can help WikiMD by expanding it.