Sunitinib

Drug Name: Sunitinib malate

Drug Class: It is an oral targeted therapy drug 

Available under the brand name: Sutent, Tunib, Sutib, Sutixar, etc.

What Is It Prescribed For?

This drug is a multi-targeted receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitor.

• Advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer that has spread to other body parts)
• Advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNET; tumours that grow in the pancreatic cells and cannot be removed by surgery)
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST; cancerous tumours that grow in the stomach, esophagus, and intestine)
• Refractory thyroid cancer

How Is It Given?

It is available in capsule form and is taken by mouth. It can be taken with or without food, once daily for 4 weeks.

What Are Common Side Effects?

You may face some of these side effects:

• High blood pressure
• Weight loss
• Yellowish discolouration of skin, skin rash, dryness, thickness
• Bleeding complications like frequent nose bleeds
• Tiredness and physical weakness
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Painful sores and blisters

Your doctor can prescribe medications to control these side effects. Sunitinib may also cause other side effects. If you face any unusual or serious problems, inform your doctor immediately.

Who Should Avoid Taking This Drug?

None

How Much Does This Drug Cost?

Available in 12.5mg, 25mg & 50mg capsules. Depending on the brand, the cost of Sunitinib 50mg can range between INR 7000 – INR 12,000 for a bottle of 28 capsules.