Sunixar 25mg Capsule

About

Sunitinib is a multi-targeted receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitor that blocks several key receptors involved in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastatic progression. Specifically, it inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR1, VEGFR2, VEGFR3), platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRα, PDGFRβ), KIT, FLT3, and RET. By targeting these diverse pathways, sunitinib effectively disrupts the signaling cascades that drive cancer cell proliferation, survival, and the formation of new blood vessels essential for tumor sustenance. This comprehensive mechanism of action makes it a valuable therapeutic agent in the management of specific advanced cancers. Its clinical utility stems from its ability to modulate multiple oncogenic pathways simultaneously, leading to significant anti-tumor activity and improved patient outcomes in selected indications, particularly where resistance to other therapies has developed or where these pathways are primary drivers of disease progression.

Uses

• Treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) after imatinib failure.
• Treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
• Treatment of progressive, well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET).
• Management of certain other solid tumors where specific RTK pathways are implicated.

Directions For Use

Take orally, usually once daily with or without food, as directed by your oncologist. Do not crush or chew the capsule.

Benefits

• Inhibits multiple pathways crucial for cancer growth.
• Effective against specific types of advanced cancers.
• Can prolong progression-free survival in certain patients.
• Oral administration offers convenience and flexibility.
• Targets both tumor cells and tumor blood supply.
• Approved for several difficult-to-treat malignancies.

Side Effects

• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomatitis (mouth sores)
• Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Skin discoloration
• Hair changes
• Taste alteration
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate side effects or interact with the medication, potentially increasing liver strain.
• Pregnancy - Sunitinib is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm; effective contraception is required during treatment and for a period after the last dose.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during sunitinib treatment and for a period after the last dose due to potential harm to the infant from drug excretion in milk.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be monitored regularly due to potential hepatotoxicity.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustments may be required, and kidney function should be monitored closely due to potential renal effects.
• Lung - Monitor for signs of pulmonary hypertension or interstitial lung disease, as these are rare but serious potential side effects requiring prompt medical attention.

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