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Vandetanib

Updated on : October - 2012
Latest prescription information about Vandetanib. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Vandetanib
Pronunciation : van-DET-a-nib
Trade Name(s): 
International- Caprelsa.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a kinase inhibitor, prescribed for medullary thyroid cancer. It blocks the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Contraindicated in patients with congenital long QT syndrome.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category D : There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
PO- The recommended daily dose is 300 mg.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.
Warnings and Precautions : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart disease, irregular heartbeat, heart attack, liver or kidney impairment, lung or breathing problems, bleeding episodes, high blood pressure, abnormal blood electrolyte, underactive thyroid, skin disease, diarrhea, decrease in white blood cell levels and platelet levels; who are taking other medications, any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause tiredness, weakness, or blurred vision, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.
* Avoid exposure to sunlight.
* Monitor ECGs, liver, thyroid, and kidney function; blood pressure, blood sugar, blood electrolyte levels and complete blood cell counts regularly while taking this medication.
Side Effects : 
Most Common - Diarrhea, rash, acne, nausea, high blood pressure, headache, fatigue, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain.
Skin - Dry Skin, photosensitivity, itching.
Gastrointestinal - Vomiting, indigestion, decreased weight.
Central Nervous System - Weakness, sleeplessness, depression, tiredness, weakness.
Serious Effects- QT prolongation.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Stored it at room temperature (25°C).

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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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