Pazopanib

Pazopanib is not a conventional chemotherapy medicine. It belongs to a class of medicine called a protein kinase inhibitor. Pazopanib works by preventing the activity of proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Pazopanib should be taken orally by mouth once a day or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the tablets whole with water, do not break or crush the tablets. This affects the way the medicine is absorbed and may increase the chance of side effects.

Pazopanib should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. If it is taken with food, the dosage may need to be increased. Doing this will in turn cause more side effects.

The duration for which you have to continue taking Pazopanib varies from person to person. The doctor monitors you closely and will be able to better estimate how long the medicine needs to be taken. Do not stop taking it without telling your doctor. It needs to be taken as long as it is effective and you can tolerate it.

Yes, it is best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on Pazopanib, as it may affect how the medicine works in your body. Ask your doctor about any additional foods you should avoid.

The duration for which you have to continue taking Pazopanib varies from person to person. The doctor monitors you closely and will be able to better estimate how long the medicine needs to be taken. Do not stop taking it without telling your doctor. It needs to be taken as long as it is effective and you can tolerate it.

Pazopanib may cause severe or life-threatening liver damage. Inform your doctor if you have or had liver disease. If you experience any of the following symptoms such as discoloration of the skin or eyes (yellowing), dark urine, extreme tiredness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in the upper right part of the stomach, or unusual bleeding or bruising, call your doctor immediately. Your doctor may ask you to take some lab tests before you start taking Votrient. After you start taking Votrient, you may need to take those lab tests at weeks 3, 5, 7 and 9 and then at months 3 and 4. Your doctor may also prescribe additional tests if necessary. Periodic testing should then continue after 4 months.