Lenvatinib (4mg)

Lenvatinib (4mg) — Uses and Benefits

Lenvatinib is used in the treatment of certain advanced cancers, mainly thyroid cancer, liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma), often in combination with other cancer medicines.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Advanced or metastatic thyroid cancer that has stopped responding to standard treatment
• Advanced liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) in adults who have not had prior systemic therapy
• Advanced kidney cancer, usually combined with another targeted therapy
• Sometimes used with immunotherapy for advanced endometrial (uterine) cancer

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks specific proteins (VEGFR, FGFR, PDGFR and others) that cancer cells use to grow new blood vessels
• By cutting off blood supply, it slows or stops tumour growth and spread

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller and does not treat cancer-related pain directly
• Not used for common infections or non-cancerous conditions
• Not a substitute for surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy unless your oncologist specifically plans it as combination therapy
• Not recommended for use without proper cancer diagnosis and monitoring

How to Use Lenvatinib (4mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your oncologist; do not change the dose yourself
• Usually taken once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food
• Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not open or crush unless your doctor instructs otherwise
• Continue treatment for as long as your doctor recommends, even if you feel well
• Regular blood pressure checks, blood tests and scans will be needed during treatment

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• If it is less than 12 hours since your usual time, take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Never double the dose to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if you miss doses frequently

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight
• Keep in the original container, out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack

Lenvatinib (4mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• High blood pressure
• Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, reduced appetite
• Tiredness and weakness
• Weight loss
• Mouth sores or sore throat
• Hand and foot pain, redness or swelling (palmar-plantar syndrome)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Hoarseness of voice
• Headache
• Joint or muscle pain
• Constipation
• Hair thinning
• Changes in taste

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe chest pain, breathlessness or irregular heartbeat
• Sudden severe headache, confusion, seizures or vision changes (may indicate a rare brain condition)
• Signs of bleeding such as blood in vomit, stool or urine
• Severe stomach pain, especially with fever (possible bowel perforation)
• Yellowing of eyes/skin or dark urine (liver problems)
• Severe swelling of face, lips or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Non-healing wounds after any surgery

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Lenvatinib (4mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must be used strictly under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lenvatinib or any ingredient in the capsule
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, unless specifically advised by your oncologist
• Are breastfeeding

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have high blood pressure that is not well controlled
• Have heart disease, including history of heart attack or heart failure
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of bleeding disorders or recent major surgery
• Have had blood clots or stroke
• Are diabetic, as blood sugar changes are possible
• Are planning surgery, including dental procedures

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood pressure medicines (effect may be increased)
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Other anti-cancer or targeted therapy drugs
• Medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine with food?

Yes, it can be taken with or without food, but try to take it at the same time every day.

Will I need regular tests during treatment?

Yes, regular blood pressure monitoring, liver and kidney function tests, and urine tests are usually required.

Can this medicine affect fertility?

• It may affect fertility in both men and women, so discuss family planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
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