Description

Regorafenib Tablets 40 Mg

Regorafenib Tablets 40 Mg are prescribed for treating patients with advanced or metastatic cancers who are unresponsive to previous treatment options. The medication contains Regorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor which works by blocking specific enzymes that contribute to cancer cell growth, division, and blood vessel formation.

Regorafenib is most commonly used in:

• Metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC)
• Advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, or primary liver cancer)

This drug marks a valuable option for extending overall survival and delaying disease progression in heavily pretreated patients.

Indications and Uses

Regorafenib Tablets 40 Mg are indicated for:

• Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): In patients previously treated with fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-based chemotherapy, anti-VEGF, and anti-EGFR therapy (if RAS wild-type).
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST): In patients who failed treatment with imatinib and sunitinib.
• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): In patients previously treated with sorafenib.

Regorafenib is typically used as a third-line or later therapy, offering hope when previous options have failed.

How Regorafenib Works

Regorafenib is a targeted cancer therapy, operating as a multi-kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking several protein kinases involved in:

• Tumor growth
• Angiogenesis (blood vessel formation)
• Cancer cell microenvironment stabilization

Targeted pathways include:

• VEGFR1, VEGFR2, VEGFR3 (angiogenesis)
• KIT, RET, RAF-1, BRAF (oncogenesis)
• PDGFR and FGFR (tumor stroma development)

By selectively inhibiting these kinases, Regorafenib slows or stops the growth of cancer cells and the blood vessels that feed them.

Dosage and Administration

Form: Film-coated oral tablet
Strength: 40 mg
Route: Oral

Typical Dosage:

• 160 mg per day (4 tablets of 40 mg)
• Taken once daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break (28-day cycle)

Administration Instructions:

• Take with a low-fat meal (less than 30% fat content)
• Swallow tablets whole with water – do not crush or chew
• Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
• Dosage adjustments may be required based on side effects or liver function

Only use Regorafenib under the supervision of an oncologist or healthcare provider experienced in cancer therapy.

Benefits of Regorafenib Tablets 40 Mg

• Effective for difficult-to-treat, metastatic cancers
• Proven to prolong overall survival in mCRC, GIST, and liver cancer
• Convenient oral administration
• Targets multiple cancer-related signaling pathways
• Delays disease progression and improves quality of life in eligible patients

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• High blood pressure
• Hand-foot skin reaction
• Weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort

Serious side effects:

• Liver damage (elevated liver enzymes or hepatic failure)
• Bleeding or clotting disorders
• Cardiac issues (including heart attack or chest pain)
• Gastrointestinal perforation
• Severe skin reactions (rash, peeling)

Regular blood tests and liver function monitoring are recommended during treatment. Adjustments to dosage may be necessary to manage side effects.

Precautions and Warnings

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Women of reproductive potential must use effective contraception during and for at least 2 months after stopping treatment
• Patients with liver or kidney impairment should be closely monitored
• Use caution in those with a history of heart disease, bleeding disorders, or hypertension
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which can affect drug metabolism

Drug Interactions

Regorafenib may interact with:

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin)
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Tyrosine kinase inhibitors or immunotherapy drugs

Provide your full medication list to your doctor before beginning therapy.

Storage Information

• Store at 25°C (77°F)
• Excursions permitted to 15–30°C (59-86°F)
• Store in original container with desiccant
• Keep away from moisture, sunlight, children, and pets

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Regorafenib Tablets 40 Mg used to treat?

They are used for colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and liver cancer that have progressed after other treatments.

2. How is the drug taken?

It is taken orally, once a day for 21 days followed by a 7-day break in a 28-day treatment cycle.

3. Do I need to take Regorafenib with food?

Yes, always take it with a low-fat meal to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset.

4. What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose.

5. Are there any dietary restrictions?

Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice and high-fat meals during treatment.

6. How long will I need to take Regorafenib?

Treatment continues as long as it is effective and tolerated. Your doctor will decide how long you should stay on it.

7. Can it cause liver problems?

Yes. Liver monitoring is required as Regorafenib can cause liver damage in some patients.

8. Is it safe during pregnancy?

No. It can harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is necessary during treatment.

9. Can I drink alcohol while on Regorafenib?

Alcohol is best avoided as it can worsen liver side effects. Speak with your doctor.

10. Is Regorafenib a cure for cancer?

No, it is not a cure but is used to manage advanced cancers and extend survival time.