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Sunitinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Multi-Kinase Inhibitor Sutent® Cancer-related

Sunitinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Sunitinib cause?

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Mouth sores, poor appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Tiredness and lack of energy
  • Palms of the hands or soles of the feet become numb, sore, red, itchy or dry
  • Discoloration of skin and hair
  • High blood pressure
    Your blood pressure should be monitored closely. Discuss a proper follow-up plan with your physician.
  • Bleeding gum

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Allergic reactions – rashes, facial swelling, breathing difficulties
  • Rapid heartbeat or chest pain or swelling of the hands and feet
  • Signs of infection – fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty in urinating
  • Prolonged gum bleeding or bleeding on other parts of the body
  • Unusual weakness, tiredness or light-headedness
  • Severe diarrhea

Before taking Sunitinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor of pharmacist if you:
    • Have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems, high blood pressure, adrenal insufficiency.
    • Plan to start any new medicines or supplements.
  • Effective birth control measures should be used during treatment with Sunitinib. Inform your doctor if you plan to get or suspect that you are pregnant.
  • Do not breastfeed. Inform your doctor if you intend to breastfeed while taking Sunitinib.
  • Avoid going to crowded places or being near sick people to minimize your risk of infection.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Sunitinib ?

Grapefruit and its juice.

Sunitinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 10/10/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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