Cabozantinib s-malate

Cabozantinib S-malate is a cancer therapy drug used in the treatment of various types of malignancies, including medullary thyroid cancer, renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is a small molecule inhibitor of multiple tyrosine kinases, including MET, VEGFR, and AXL, which are involved in normal cellular functions and in pathologies such as the growth of cancer cells, angiogenesis, and metastasis.

Mechanism of Action

Cabozantinib S-malate works by inhibiting the activity of tyrosine kinases, a family of enzymes that play a significant role in the cellular processes of growth and division, angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and apoptosis (programmed cell death). By blocking these enzymes, cabozantinib S-malate can reduce tumor growth and spread.

Indications

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved cabozantinib S-malate for the treatment of advanced Medullary Thyroid Cancer in patients with progressive, metastatic disease, for the treatment of advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) in patients who have received prior anti-angiogenic therapy, and for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib.

Dosage and Administration

Cabozantinib S-malate is administered orally. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the patient's condition, response to treatment, and the presence of any adverse effects. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cabozantinib S-malate include diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, hypertension, and hand-foot syndrome. More severe side effects can include hemorrhage, thrombotic events, and gastrointestinal perforations. Patients should report any side effects to their healthcare provider to manage them effectively.

Drug Interactions

Cabozantinib S-malate can interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of serious side effects. It is important to inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbs being taken before starting treatment with cabozantinib S-malate.

Precautions

Before taking cabozantinib S-malate, patients should inform their healthcare provider about their medical history, especially if they have a history of liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, or a history of QT prolongation. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, liver and kidney function, and electrolytes is recommended during treatment.

Research

Ongoing research is investigating the use of cabozantinib S-malate in other types of cancer and in combination with other cancer therapies to determine its efficacy and safety in a broader range of patients.