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REGORAFENIB

This page provides concise information about the drug regorafenib, including its indications, dosage and administration guidelines, mechanism of action, related brands and their strengths, as well as warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Regorafenib, an antiangiogenic agent, received medical approval for its use on September 27, 2012.

Mechanism of Action of Regorafenib

Regorafenib functions as targeted therapy in cancer treatment, classified among tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This anticancer medication disrupts blood vessel growth within cancer cells and targets receptor tyrosine kinases, interfering with cell signaling. Ultimately, this action halts the growth and dissemination of cancer cells.

Uses of Regorafenib

Regorafenib is designed for treating colorectal cancer, a specific stomach cancer known as gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). It’s utilized when the disease has progressed and hasn’t responded well to other anticancer treatments.

Regorafenib Drug administaration and Dosage available

Regorafenib is presented as film-coated tablets in 40mg strength. The typical adult dosage involves four tablets of Regorafenib 40mg daily, prescribed by your healthcare provider. The treatment cycle usually spans three weeks with a one-week break, and the dosage may be adjusted based on your body’s tolerance. Take this tablet consistently at the same time following a low-fat meal.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Regorafenib

Warnings

If you notice shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, infection, or severe bleeding, contact your doctor right away. Throughout your Regorafenib treatment, your doctor will regularly monitor your complete blood counts, blood sugar, electrolytes, thyroid panel, urine for protein levels, and kidney function to prevent potential complications. Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, hypertension, heart, liver, skin, kidney issues, or blood disorders. Surgical procedures while on Regorafenib treatment are not recommended due to a higher risk of bleeding. Prior to any surgery or dental work, inform your physician. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience itching, changes in vision, confusion, or dizziness.

Precautions

Regorafenib poses risks to an unborn baby. Inform your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you are pregnant or intending to conceive. Both men and women should use appropriate contraceptive methods during treatment and for eight weeks after the final dose of Regorafenib. Refrain from breastfeeding while on this treatment, as Regorafenib can pass into breast milk and affect the baby’s growth and development.

Side Effects

The typical side effects you might experience during Regorafenib treatment include high blood pressure, anemia, thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, diarrhea, voice changes, blisters, loss of appetite, fever, weight loss, constipation, rashes, hypothyroidism, dehydration, heartburn, hair loss, muscle spasms, protein in urine, weakness, and more. Notify your doctor right away if you encounter severe headaches, chest pain, coughing or vomiting blood, weakness on one side of your body, difficulty speaking, or confusion.

Word Of Advice

Regorafenib can make you feel dizzy and weak. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines if you experience dizziness, confusion or tiredness while on treatment with Regorafenib. Drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration.

Frequently Asked Question

Do not receive vaccination or immunization without consulting your doctor while on treatment with Regoratenib.
Your healthcare provider will suggest tests to measure complete blood count, electrolytes, liver, kidney parameters, INR and blood pressure.
Regorafenib is associated with increased risk of bleeding complications and poor wound healing. Hence it is suggested to avoid planning for surgery and tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures. Your healthcare provider will suggest stopping the medication a day prior to surgical procedure.
If you take additional dose of Regorafenib Tablet, report to your healthcare provider right away and go to the emergency department of a hospital.
It is not recommended to take grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on treatment with Regorafenib. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription medicines, over the counter drugs, vitamins or herbal supplements.
Get in touch with your healthcare provider immediately if you experience fever > 100°F, infection, itching, shortness of breath, dark urine, dizziness, confusion, blood in urine or stools.
Store Regorafenib tablets below 30°C, away from the reach of children.

References

  1. Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Pathway-Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203-1236.
  2. Bayer Plc, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Oct 2021] [Accessed on 7th Oct 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1263.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.