Vandetanib
Generic name: vandetanib [ van-DET-a-nib ]
Brand name: Caprelsa
Dosage form: oral tablet (100 mg; 300 mg)
Drug classes:EGFR inhibitors, Multikinase inhibitors, VEGF/VEGFR inhibitors
What is vandetanib?
Vandetanib is used in adults to treat thyroid cancer.
Vandetanib is available only from a certified pharmacy under a special program.
Vandetanib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Vandetanib can cause a serious heart problem, especially if you also use certain other medicines or have certain conditions. You should not use vandetanib if you have long QT syndrome. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines.
You will need medical tests every 2 weeks to 3 months.
Call your doctor right away if you have fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use vandetanib if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
long QT syndrome.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a heart rhythm disorder (in you or a family member);
other heart problems, or high blood pressure;
low blood levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium;
abnormal thyroid function tests;
a seizure;
breathing problems, cough with bloody mucus;
liver or kidney disease;
skin problems; or
severe diarrhea.
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.
Do not use vandetanib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 4 months after your last dose.
How should I take vandetanib?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Vandetanib is usually taken once per day, with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush or chew it. Take vandetanib with a full glass of water.
If you cannot swallow a tablet whole, place it into a gl...
