Description

Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg

Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg contain the active ingredient Pazopanib Hydrochloride and are classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). This targeted therapy inhibits various proteins essential for tumor growth and blood vessel formation, helping to slow or stop the progression of certain cancers.

Commonly prescribed under the brand name Votrient or as generics, Pazopanib is approved by the U.S. FDA and other international regulatory agencies. It is administered orally and designed for long-term use in adults diagnosed with metastatic or advanced forms of kidney and soft tissue cancers.

Indications and Uses

Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg are primarily indicated for:

• Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) – a common form of kidney cancer
• Metastatic Soft Tissue Sarcoma (STS) – in patients who have received prior chemotherapy

This medication is used when cancer has progressed or cannot be treated with surgery, and requires systemic therapy.

Mechanism of Action

Pazopanib targets and blocks several tyrosine kinases involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis. These include:

• Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, VEGFR-3)
• Platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR-α and PDGFR-β)
• Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR)
• c-Kit (stem cell growth receptor)

By inhibiting these enzymes, Pazopanib reduces the blood supply to the tumor, induces cancer cell death, and slows disease progression.

Dosage and Administration

Form: Film-coated tablet
Strength: 400 mg
Typical Adult Dose: 800 mg once daily (2 tablets of 400 mg)
Route: Oral

Administration instructions:

• Take once daily at the same time
• Must be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal
• Swallow tablets whole with water
• Do not split, crush, or chew the tablets

The dose may be adjusted based on patient tolerance and liver function.

Benefits of Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg

• Proven to delay cancer progression in patients with RCC and STS
• Offers an oral alternative to IV chemotherapy
• Targets specific tumor growth receptors with precision
• Demonstrated safety and efficacy in international clinical trials
• FDA-approved for advanced cancer management

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Hair depigmentation
• High blood pressure

Serious side effects may include:

• Liver toxicity (requires frequent liver function tests)
• Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)
• Blood clots and internal bleeding
• Gastrointestinal perforation
• Kidney problems and proteinuria

Medical supervision and regular lab testing are strongly recommended throughout treatment.

Precautions and Warnings

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• May reduce fertility in both men and women
• Avoid use with grapefruit or grapefruit juice
• Use caution in patients with liver or cardiac disorders
• Avoid if allergic to Pazopanib or any of its ingredients

Before starting Pazopanib, inform your doctor of all health conditions and medications you are currently taking.

Drug Interactions

Pazopanib may interact with medications that affect the liver enzyme CYP3A4, including:

• Strong inhibitors: ketoconazole, clarithromycin
• Strong inducers: rifampicin, phenytoin
• Antacids (may reduce drug absorption)
• Certain blood thinners and heart medications

Always give your healthcare provider a full list of current medications and supplements.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature below 30°C (86°F)
• Protect from moisture and sunlight
• Keep in the original packaging
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg used for?

They are used to treat advanced stages of kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma) and soft tissue sarcoma after chemotherapy.

2. Is Pazopanib a chemotherapy drug?

No, it is a targeted therapy classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which specifically attacks cancer growth signals.

3. How should I take Pazopanib Tablets 400 Mg?

Take once daily on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating, and swallow the tablet whole with water.

4. What should I avoid while taking Pazopanib?

Avoid grapefruit products, certain medications that affect liver enzymes, and using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

5. What are the most common side effects?

The most common include diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, hair color changes, high blood pressure, and liver test abnormalities.

6. Can I drink alcohol during treatment?

Alcohol should be limited or avoided as it may increase liver strain. Speak with your doctor for guidance.

7. How long will I need to take Pazopanib?

Treatment length varies based on disease progression and your response. Your oncologist will determine the appropriate duration.

8. What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if the next scheduled dose is within 12 hours. Do not double up on doses.

9. Are there available alternatives to Pazopanib?

Yes. Alternatives may include Sunitinib, Axitinib, or Sorafenib, depending on your medical needs.

10. Do I need tests while on Pazopanib?

Yes. Liver function tests, blood pressure checks, and periodic ECGs are usually required during treatment.