Cabozantinib
About Cabozantinib
Cabozantinib is a prescription medicine used to treat advanced kidney cancer. It is also prescribed for certain types of liver cancer and specific forms of thyroid cancer that have progressed. This medicine works by targeting specific proteins to help slow down the growth and spread of cancer cells.
To get the best results, you must take Cabozantinib consistently at the same time every day. Always take this medicine on an empty stomach, which means you should not eat anything for at least 2 hours before taking your dose and for 1 hour after taking it. Maintaining a balanced diet and staying well-hydrated are helpful lifestyle habits to support your body during this treatment.
While taking Cabozantinib, you may experience some common side effects such as diarrhoea, fatigue, or high blood pressure. Most of these can be managed, but you must contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe symptoms like unusual bleeding, severe stomach pain, or chest pain.
Before starting Cabozantinib, you should talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have high blood pressure, liver issues, or upcoming dental procedures. Do not take this if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or have an active, severe bleeding disorder.
This medicine can interact with other prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements because they may alter how your body processes the treatment. Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking while taking this medication, as they can increase your risk of stomach irritation and liver strain. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or an elderly patient, consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits before starting treatment.
Uses of Cabozantinib
Medicinal Benefits
When used as prescribed, Cabozantinib offers several important benefits in the treatment of advanced cancers.
- Slows cancer progression: By blocking multiple proteins involved in tumour growth and blood vessel formation, this medicine helps slow the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Helps control tumour growth: In many patients, Cabozantinib helps shrink tumours or prevents them from becoming larger, helping keep the disease under control for longer.
- Delays disease progression: This medicine may extend the period during which the cancer remains stable before it worsens, improving treatment outcomes.
- Supports quality of life: By slowing tumour growth, Cabozantinib may help reduce cancer-related symptoms such as pain or discomfort, allowing many patients to maintain their daily activities for longer.
Directions for Use
- Cabozantinib should be taken on an empty stomach at least one hour before food and 2 hours after food, or as advised by your doctor.
- It is recommended to take Cabozantinib once daily or as advised by your doctor.
- Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water.
- Do not break, chew or crush Cabozantinib.
Storage
Side Effects of Cabozantinib
Common Side Effects (Usually mild):
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Feeling unusually tired, weak, or lacking energy
- Nausea, vomiting, or a mild upset stomach
- Decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss
- Redness, pain, swelling, or blisters on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet
Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):
- Signs of severe bleeding, such as coughing up blood, blood in your urine, or black, tarry stools
- Severe, sudden stomach pain or tenderness that does not go away
- Signs of liver damage, including yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe pain on the right side of your stomach
- A sudden, severe headache, confusion, or changes in your vision
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Inspect your tablets before use: Do not take any tablet that is broken, chipped, crushed, or cracked.
- Handle the tablets carefully: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the tablets. Caregivers should wear disposable gloves when handling the medication, especially if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
- Tell your dentist you are taking Cabozantinib: Inform your dentist before any dental procedure, as this medicine may increase the risk of jawbone problems (osteonecrosis of the jaw), particularly after tooth extractions or other invasive dental work.
- Pregnancy warning: Use highly effective contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after your final dose. Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine because it can harm an unborn baby.
- Check before taking new medicines: Do not start any prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, or herbal supplements without consulting your doctor or pharmacist first.
- When to seek urgent medical care: Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe jaw pain, loose teeth, swelling of the jaw, severe allergic reactions, persistent thigh or groin pain, or any unusual symptoms that worsen rapidly.
Drug Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole or clarithromycin): May increase the levels of Cabozantinib in your body, raising your risk of experiencing serious side effects.
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampin or phenytoin): May lower the levels of Cabozantinib in your blood, making the treatment less effective.
- Blood thinners (such as warfarin): May significantly increase your risk of severe, life-threatening bleeding.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAvoid consumption of alcohol while on treatment with Cabozantinib as it may cause serious side effects.
Pregnancy
unsafeCabozantinib is not recommended for use in pregnancy as it may cause embryo-fetal toxicity and harm your foetus. Hence, if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before taking Cabozantinib. You should not become pregnant while you are taking Cabozantinib for at least four months from the last dose of Cabozantinib. Using effective birth control methods while on treatment is suggested.
Breast Feeding
unsafeCabozantinib should not be taken if you are breastfeeding as it passes into breast milk and may harm your infant. Avoid nursing your child while on treatment with this medicine and for at least four months from the last dose of medicine.
Driving
unsafeIn some cases, Cabozantinib may cause dizziness and visual problems. As a result, do not drive, operate machinery, or engage in any activity that requires clear vision until you are satisfied you can drive while on Cabozantinib therapy.
Liver
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of liver problems, tell your doctor before taking this medicine. Cabozantinib is known to cause hepatotoxicity when taken in combination with nivolumab. Hence, this medicine should be taken cautiously in patients with moderate liver impairment. Your doctor may suggest tests to monitor your liver function while on treatment with this medicine.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a pre-existing or a history of kidney diseases, inform your doctor before taking Cabozantinib. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.
Children
unsafeCabozantinib is not recommended for use in children as the safety and efficacy are not established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Protect your hands and feet: To manage hand-foot syndrome, avoid exposing your hands and feet to hot water, wear thick socks and comfortable shoes, and apply a thick, alcohol-free moisturizer regularly.
- Monitor your blood pressure: Check your blood pressure daily at home as directed by your doctor, and keep a log of your readings to share at your appointments.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or clear broths, to prevent dehydration if you experience diarrhea.
- Eat small, frequent meals: If you experience nausea or a loss of appetite, eating smaller portions throughout the day can help you maintain your nutrition.
Special Advise
- Your doctor may suggest periodic liver function tests, kidney function tests, and urine tests to monitor the function of the liver kidney and the presence of protein in urine due to the use of Cabozantinib.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you have swelling in your lower legs, fast heartbeats, or trouble breathing, as it may be a sign of a heart problem.
- It is advised to use effective contraceptive methods while using Cabozantinib to prevent pregnancy.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Renal Cell Carcinoma: Also known as kidney cancer. It is the most common type of cancer seen in adults. This condition occurs when cancer/ malignant cells grow uncontrollably in the kidney and form a tumor. Advanced kidney cancer (metastatic renal cell carcinoma) occurs when the malignant cells spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms include red, orange, or pink-coloured urine due to the presence of blood in the urine.
Hepatocellular carcinoma: Also known as liver cancer. It occurs when the cancer/ malignant cells grow out of control. This infects the liver, destroys the liver cells and affects the ability of the liver to work properly. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and pale bowel motions.
FAQs
Cabozantinib is used to treat Renal Cell Carcinoma and Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Cabozantinib contains Cabozantinib, which works by stopping the action of a tyrosine kinase enzyme that causes the multiplication of cancerous cells.
Cabozantinib may cause thyroid dysfunction, leading to decreased thyroid hormone levels. This effect causes hypothyroidism. So, notify your doctor if you feel extremely tired, colder than others, sudden weight gain/ weight loss, hair loss, or change in voice while using this medicine.
No, you must take Cabozantinib on an empty stomach. Do not eat any food for at least 2 hours before your dose and for 1 hour after taking it. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you struggle to manage this schedule.
This is a common side effect known as hand-foot skin reaction. You should apply thick moisturizing creams, avoid hot water, protect your skin from friction, and contact your doctor for guidance on managing the symptoms.
It is highly recommended to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can irritate your stomach lining and place extra strain on your liver. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about alcohol use.
Yes, high blood pressure is a very common side effect of this medicine. Your doctor will likely ask you to monitor your blood pressure daily at home and may prescribe blood pressure-lowering medication if needed.
You must inform your dentist and your oncologist before any dental work. This medicine can cause serious healing problems in your jawbone, and you may need to stop taking it temporarily before and after any invasive dental procedures. Talk to your doctor before scheduling any dental work.
If you have severe or persistent diarrhea, contact your doctor right away. They may recommend specific anti-diarrheal medicines, suggest dietary changes, or adjust your dose of Cabozantinib to help manage the issue safely.
No, you must not take this medicine if you are pregnant, as it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. You must use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Talk to your doctor immediately if you suspect you are pregnant.
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