WARNING

Votrient, also known as pazopanib, is a medication used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer) and soft tissue sarcoma. Like any medication, Votrient carries potential risks and side effects. It’s important to note that individual responses to the drug can vary, and not everyone will experience the same effects. Here are some common risks associated with taking Votrient:

• Hepatotoxicity: Votrient can cause liver problems, leading to elevated liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of liver function is typically recommended during treatment.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Votrient can increase blood pressure. Blood pressure should be regularly monitored, and antihypertensive medications may be required.
• Cardiotoxicity: Some patients may experience cardiac-related side effects, including heart failure or decreased heart function. Regular cardiac monitoring is advised.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Votrient can cause nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Managing these symptoms through dietary changes or medications may be necessary.
• Fatigue: Fatigue is a common side effect of Votrient, and patients may experience a decrease in energy levels.
• Hematologic effects: Votrient can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions such as neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
• Wound healing complications: Votrient may interfere with the healing process after surgery, and patients are often advised to stop the medication temporarily before and after surgical procedures.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Some patients may experience changes in thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

It’s crucial for individuals considering or currently using Votrient to have open communication with their healthcare providers. They should discuss their medical history, current medications, and any concerns they may have about potential side effects. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance based on an individual’s health status and help manage and mitigate potential risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Votrient (pazopanib) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is primarily indicated for:

• Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): Votrient is used in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, which is a type of kidney cancer. It may be prescribed when the cancer has spread beyond the kidney.
• Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma (STS): Votrient is also used to treat advanced soft tissue sarcoma in patients who have previously received chemotherapy.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using Votrient:

• Dosage: The recommended dosage can vary based on the type of cancer being treated and individual patient factors. Healthcare providers will determine the appropriate dose for each patient.
• Administration: Votrient is usually taken orally, with or without food. It is typically taken once a day, and the tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
• Consistency in Administration: It’s important to take Votrient at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the body.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Patients are generally advised to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Votrient, as it can interact with the medication and affect its absorption.
• Regular Monitoring: Patients taking Votrient may undergo regular monitoring of blood pressure, liver function, and other relevant parameters. This helps healthcare providers assess the impact of the medication and manage potential side effects.
• Wound Healing: If surgery is planned, healthcare providers may recommend discontinuing Votrient for a period before and after the surgical procedure due to the potential for impaired wound healing.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are essential to monitor the progress of treatment, assess for side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Votrient to communicate openly with their healthcare team, report any side effects promptly, and follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently. Additionally, patients should inform their healthcare providers about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking, as interactions can occur. Only a qualified healthcare professional can determine the appropriate use of Votrient based on an individual’s specific medical condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Votrient (pazopanib) is primarily approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer) and advanced soft tissue sarcoma. Its use for other conditions is not typically recommended unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional. The decision to use Votrient for a particular condition is based on factors such as the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient’s overall health.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Votrient, and it’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider. Here are some general precautions associated with Votrient use:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Votrient can cause hepatotoxicity (liver problems), so regular monitoring of liver function is essential. Elevated liver enzymes may require dose adjustments or discontinuation of the medication.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Votrient can elevate blood pressure, and regular monitoring is necessary. Antihypertensive medications may be prescribed to manage high blood pressure.
• Cardiac Monitoring: Due to the potential for cardiac effects, such as heart failure or decreased heart function, cardiac function should be monitored regularly during treatment.
• Thyroid Function: Votrient can affect thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Thyroid function should be assessed, and appropriate measures, such as thyroid hormone replacement, may be taken.
• Wound Healing: Votrient may impair wound healing. Patients are generally advised to stop taking Votrient before and after scheduled surgeries. The decision to discontinue the medication should be made in consultation with the treating healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: Votrient can cause fetal harm, and it is not recommended during pregnancy. Adequate contraception should be used by both males and females during treatment, and patients should be counseled on the potential risks.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Votrient can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms should be promptly reported to healthcare providers, who may provide supportive care or adjust the treatment plan.
• Drug Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Dose Adjustments: Individual patient factors, such as age, weight, and other health conditions, may necessitate dose adjustments. Healthcare providers will determine the appropriate dose for each patient.

It’s crucial for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare team, attend regular follow-up appointments, and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly. Only a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on an individual’s specific health situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Patients are generally advised to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Votrient, as it can interact with the medication and affect its absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If a Dose is Missed: If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as they remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed.
• Double Dosing: Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Votrient (pazopanib) can cause various side effects, and the severity and occurrence of these side effects can vary from person to person. It’s important for individuals taking Votrient to be aware of potential side effects and to promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider. Common side effects of Votrient include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Votrient can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is typically recommended, and antihypertensive medications may be prescribed to manage elevated blood pressure.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a common side effect of Votrient.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a frequent gastrointestinal side effect of Votrient. Maintaining hydration and dietary modifications may be recommended to manage this symptom.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea while taking Votrient.
• Vomiting: Vomiting can occur in some patients as a side effect of the medication.
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area may occur.
• Loss of Appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite.
• Headache: Headaches are among the reported side effects of Votrient.
• Dysgeusia (Altered Taste): Changes in taste perception may occur.
• Hair Color Changes: Votrient has been associated with changes in hair color.
• Hepatotoxicity (Liver Problems): Votrient can affect the liver, leading to elevated liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of liver function is important.
• Thyroid Dysfunction: Votrient can impact thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
• Hematologic Effects: Votrient can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions such as neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
• Cardiac Effects: Some patients may experience cardiac-related side effects, including heart failure or decreased heart function.
• Wound Healing Complications: Votrient may interfere with the healing process after surgery.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, the information provided here is a general overview, and individual experiences may vary. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized information regarding potential side effects, as well as guidance on managing and reporting them.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here are some important considerations regarding the storage and disposal information related to Votrient (pazopanib):

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store Votrient at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Original Container: Keep Votrient in its original container to protect it from light.
• Childproof Storage: Store the medication in a location that is not easily accessible to children and pets.

Disposal:

• Follow Guidelines: Dispose of Votrient according to local guidelines or regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Community Programs: Check if there are any community programs or local facilities that accept unused medications for safe disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In case of an overdose or emergency, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and other adverse effects. Prompt medical attention is essential.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Follow the schedule for regular monitoring recommended by your healthcare provider. This may include blood pressure checks, liver function tests, and other assessments.
• Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosing, dietary restrictions, and other recommendations.
• Avoid Grapefruit: As mentioned earlier, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Votrient, as it can interact with the medication.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Votrient, including dentists and other specialists. This helps prevent potential drug interactions and ensures coordinated care.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: If you are of childbearing age, discuss contraception methods with your healthcare provider, as Votrient can cause harm to a developing fetus.
• Communication: Maintain open communication with your healthcare team. Report any new or worsening symptoms, side effects, or concerns promptly.
• Medication Review: Keep an updated list of all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, and share it with your healthcare providers.

Remember, the information provided here is general in nature, and individual circumstances may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and seek personalized advice for your situation. If you have any questions or concerns about Votrient, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.