Tivozanib is a prescription medication used to treat advanced kidney cancer. It belongs to a group of medicines known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which block the action of certain proteins that cause the growth and spread of cancer cells. Tivozanib works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells and blocking their ability to spread to other parts of the body. It is usually given in combination with other medicines. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and decreased appetite.
Tivozanib, sold under the brand name Fotivda, is a medication used to treat a specific type of kidney cancer. Here's a detailed breakdown of its characteristics and function:
Type of Drug: Tivozanib is classified as a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) [1, 2].
How it Works:
- Targeting VEGF: VEGF plays a crucial role in angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. Tumors often hijack this process to grow and spread. Tivozanib works by blocking VEGF receptors on tumor cells and endothelial cells (cells lining blood vessels) [1, 2]. This hinders the growth of new blood vessels that would supply the tumor, essentially starving it of resources.
Medical Use: Tivozanib is approved for the treatment of adults with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who have received prior treatment with one other medication (single-agent therapy) for RCC [1, 3].
Administration: It's typically taken orally as a tablet once daily, with or without food [3].
Advantages:
- Tivozanib may offer an alternative treatment option for people with advanced RCC who haven't responded well to other medications [2].
Important Considerations:
- Tivozanib can cause side effects, including fatigue, high blood pressure, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, and protein in the urine (proteinuria) [3].
- It can also increase the risk of bleeding and may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or bleeding disorders [3].
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take Tivozanib [3].