Lenvatinib (brand name Lenvima) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used primarily to treat thyroid cancer, renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It works by inhibiting several receptor tyrosine kinases involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis, including VEGFR (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor), FGFR (fibroblast growth factor receptor), PDGFR (platelet-derived growth factor receptor), and others and Lenvatinib Price Malaysia.
While lenvatinib can be highly effective in treating certain cancers, it is associated with a variety of side effects, some of which can be serious. The side effects of lenvatinib are largely related to its effects on blood vessels, the immune system, and organ function.
Common side effects of lenvatinib:
Fatigue: One of the most frequently reported side effects, fatigue can range from mild to severe.
Hypertension (high blood pressure): Lenvatinib is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, which may require treatment with antihypertensive medications.
Diarrhea: A common gastrointestinal side effect that can range from mild to severe.
Loss of appetite and weight loss: Lenvatinib can cause anorexia and significant weight loss in some patients.
Nausea and vomiting: These are common, especially when starting treatment, but they can usually be managed with anti-nausea medications.
Hand-foot syndrome: This condition causes redness, swelling, and pain on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
Proteinuria: Increased levels of protein in the urine, which may indicate kidney problems.
Elevated liver enzymes: Lenvatinib can cause an increase in liver function tests, which may indicate liver damage or stress.
Rash: Skin rash is a common side effect, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
Mouth ulcers (stomatitis): May cause swelling and pain in the mouth.
Serious side effects (less common but important to monitor):
Cardiovascular problems:
Heart failure: There have been reports of heart failure or decreased heart function in some patients, particularly those who already suffer from heart conditions.
Arrhythmia (irregular heart rate): The drug may increase the risk of arrhythmia.
Bleeding: Lenvatinib may increase the risk of bleeding, which may manifest as nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, or more severe events.
Gastrointestinal perforation: A rare but serious complication where a hole develops in the gastrointestinal tract, causing severe pain and possible infection and .
Thyroid dysfunction: Since lenvatinib is often used in the treatment of thyroid cancer, it can cause changes in thyroid hormone levels, potentially resulting in hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Severe hypertension: Blood pressure may increase significantly in some patients, and if not well controlled, it may lead to complications such as stroke or organ damage. Severe liver toxicity: Although rare, lenvatinib can cause serious liver problems, which may manifest as jaundice, ascites or liver failure. Management of side effects: Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, liver function and kidney function is essential. Blood tests may also be needed to check proteinuria and thyroid hormone levels. Dose adjustment: In the event of severe side effects, dose reduction or interruption may be necessary. Supportive care: For symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and fatigue, medications or lifestyle adjustments may help manage symptoms. Hypertension control: Patients with hypertension should be monitored closely, and antihypertensive therapy may be needed. Summary: Lenvatinib has many potential side effects, ranging from mild symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea and skin rashes to more serious problems such as high blood pressure, heart failure and liver toxicity.
