SUTENT (Sunitinib)

What is this medication? 

Sunitinib, Sutent
Antineoplastic Agent

Sunitinib, Sutent is indicated for treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumor, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, renal cell carcinoma.

“Alert: Black Box Warning

Hepatotoxicity:
Hepatotoxicity may be severe, and in some cases, fatal. Monitor hepatic function and interrupt, dose reduce, or discontinue sunitinib as recommended.”

How does this medication work? 

Sunitinib, Sutent inhibits cellular signaling by targeting multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Sunitinib, Sutent exhibit antitumor and antiangiogenic properties by inhibiting receptors on platelet-derived growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor which play a role in both tumor angiogenesis and tumor cell proliferation. 

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: 37.5mg to 50mg once daily.

How to Take: Can take with or without food.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting Sunitinib, Sutent make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take.  Sunitinib, Sutent has been associated with a number of serious health events including: cardiovascular (i.e. heart failure, cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction), dermatologic toxicities (Steven-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, necrotizing fasciitis), gastrointestinal complications (i.e. perforation), hind-foot skin reactions, thyroid disorders, tumor lysis syndrome, etc.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Hypertension, peripheral edema, chest pain, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, chills, mouth pain, depression, dizziness, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, skin and hair discoloration, alopecia, xeroderma, erythema of the skin, endocrine and metabolic disturbances, diarrhea, stomatitis, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, gastroesophageal reflux disease, muscle and joint pain, cough, dyspnea, epistaxis, nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, fever.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Sunitinib, Sutent only common ones.