Introduction
What is axitinib?
- Axitinib interferes with the growth of some cancer cells.
- Axitinib is used to treat advanced kidney cancer.
- Axitinib is usually given after other treatments have failed.
- Axitinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warning & Precautions
Talk to Doctor
Talk to your doctor before you take this medicine, if you:
- a perforation (a hole or tear) in your stomach or intestines;
- bleeding problems, or a wound that has not healed;
- a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, or blood clot.
- high blood pressure;
- liver disease; or
- a thyroid disorder.
Pregnancy & Breast Feeding
- Both men and women using axitinib should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy.
- It is not safe to breast-feed a baby while you are using this medicine.
How to Use
- Initial dose: 5 mg orally twice a day
- Axitinib should be taken at evenly spaced intervals, usually once every 12 hours.
- Take this medicine with a full glass of water. You may take axitinib with or without food.
- Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.
- If you vomit shortly after taking axitinib, do not take another dose. Wait until your next scheduled dose time to take the medicine again.
- Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. You may also need frequent medical tests.
- If you need surgery, tell your surgeon you currently use axitinib. You will need to stop using the medicine at least 24 hours before a planned surgery.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.
What should I avoid while taking axitinib?
- Grapefruit may interact with axitinib and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them
Serious
- chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, trouble breathing;
- sudden numbness or weakness, problems with vision or speech;
- headache, confusion, thinking problems, seizure (convulsions);
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin;
- heavy menstrual bleeding;
- any bleeding that will not stop;
- pink or brown urine;
- heart problems--swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath;
- signs of stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; or
- signs of a thyroid problem--sudden weight gain or loss, feeling very weak or tired, muscle pain, feeling hot or cold, hair loss, hoarse or deepened voice.
Common
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation;
- rash, itching, redness, and peeling skin on your hands or feet;
- feeling weak or tired;
- increased blood pressure;
- decreased appetite, weight loss; or
- hoarse voice.
Disclaimer:The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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