Even when we hear the word "cancer," we often feel scared and anxious. But thanks to the advancements in medicine today, there are special drugs that can target and treat only cancer cells. So today, we are going to talk about a drug called "Lenvatinib," which stops the growth of such cancer cells and has brought hope to many people.
What is Lenvatinib?
Simply put, lenvatinib is a drug that targets specific proteins in cancer cells, controlling their growth and spread. This is called "targeted therapy." Doctors usually prescribe this drug to treat several types of cancer.
- Endometrial cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Thyroid cancer
Apart from this, your doctor may also recommend this medicine for other medical conditions.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start treatment with lenvatinib, it is very important to tell your doctor about your complete health history. Especially if you have any of the following conditions:
- Diseases of the teeth or gums.
- Diabetes (elevated blood sugar levels).
- High blood pressure.
- Heart disease or blood clotting problems.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in the blood.
- Inflammatory bowel disease.
- Kidney or liver disease.
- Presence of protein in the urine.
- If you have recently had surgery or are planning to have it in the future.
- Other diseases of the thyroid gland.
- If you have an allergic reaction to this medicine (Lenvatinib) or any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
How do I use this medicine exactly?
It is very important to take this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribed, in the correct dosage, and at the correct time.
- Swallow these capsules whole with a glass of water.
- Do not break, crush, or chew the capsules. Swallow them whole.
- Try to take the medicine at the same time every day.
- Do not stop taking your medication without your doctor's advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more of this medicine than you should, contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine
Lenvatinib is a drug that can interact with some other medications. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal products, and supplements. Be especially careful with the medications in the table below.
| Drugs that may interact with Lenvatinib | |
|---|---|
| Never take these medications with lenvatinib: | |
| Cisapride | Dronedarone |
| Pimozide | Thioridazine |
| Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking these medications: | |
| Some medications used to treat irregular heartbeats (e.g. Amiodarone, Quinidine) | Some antibiotics (e.g. Azithromycin, Clarithromycin) |
| Some medications for mental illness and depression | Antifungals (e.g. Ketoconazole, Fluconazole) |
| Other drugs that prolong the QT interval | Many other medications (this is not a complete list) |
Things you should be especially careful about when taking the medicine
You need to pay special attention to your health throughout the duration of this treatment.
Medical tests
See your doctor on the scheduled dates and get the necessary blood work and other tests done, as this is essential to monitor the effects of this medication on the body.
Pregnancy and lactation
This is very important: Do not become pregnant while you are taking this medicine and for 30 days after you stop taking it. It can cause serious harm to your baby. Also, do not breastfeed while you are taking this medicine and for one week after you stop taking it. If you are planning to have children, talk to your doctor about it.
Surgery and injuries
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor. This medicine may delay wound healing. Therefore, it is often advised to stop taking the medicine a week before surgery and not to start again until at least two weeks after surgery. The medicine should only be restarted after the wound has healed completely.
Teeth and gum health
This medicine may cause bleeding. So be very careful when brushing and flossing your teeth. If you are going to have any dental treatment, be sure to tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, lenvatinib can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are mild. It is important to report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Black or tarry stools; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; bleeding from the nose or gums; red spots on the skin. |
| Changes in heart rate | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat. |
| Liver or kidney damage | Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark yellow/brown urine, pain in the upper right abdomen, decreased urine output. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Sudden numbness/weakness of the face, arm, or leg; difficulty speaking; severe headache; difficulty walking. |
| Other serious symptoms | Severe headaches, high blood pressure, seizures, toothache, ankle swelling. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Appetite |
| Joint and muscle pain | Mouth sores |
| Nausea and vomiting | Weight loss |
It is normal to feel some discomfort and fatigue during cancer treatment. This is because these medications affect both cancer cells and healthy cells to some extent. However, despite these discomforts, the best results can be achieved by continuing the treatment as directed by your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Lenvatinib is a drug that targets cancer cells. Take it exactly as your doctor prescribes, and on time.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.
- If you notice serious side effects (abnormal bleeding, changes in heart rate, signs of stroke), notify your doctor or hospital immediately.
- Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 30 days after stopping. Avoid breastfeeding.
- This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have. Remember that you are not alone.
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