How to use Axitinib

Axitinib (Axitinib) is an oral targeted drug that is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and is commonly used to treat some malignant tumors, especially renal cell carcinoma (RCC, kidney cancer). Axitinib achieves therapeutic effects by inhibiting tumor angiogenesis and blocking tumor growth and spread. The following are general usage instructions and related precautions for axitinib:

1. Doctor’s prescription: Axitinib is a prescription drug that must be used by patients under the guidance of a doctor. Doctors will determine whether axitinib is suitable for use, as well as the dosage and course of treatment based on the patient's tumor type, severity of illness, physical condition and other factors.

2. Taking time: Axitinib is usually taken orally every day. It is recommended to take it at the same time every day to ensure that the concentration of the drug in the body is maintained at a therapeutic level. The doctor will develop an appropriate medication plan based on the patient's specific situation.

3. Dose: The dose of axitinib will be adjusted individually based on the patient's weight, liver function, kidney function and other factors. Patients should never change the dosage of the medicine on their own and must take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor.

4. Take on an empty stomach: It is usually recommended to take axitinib on an empty stomach, that is, at least 1 hours before meals or 2 hours after meals. This helps improve the absorption of the drug and reduces gastrointestinal discomfort that may occur when taking it with food.

5. Avoid food interactions: There may be interactions between some foods and drugs, affecting the absorption or metabolism of the drugs. Patients should avoid ingesting large amounts of grapefruit or its juice while taking axitinib, as this may increase the blood concentration of the drug and increase the risk of side effects.

6. Regular examinations: During the use of axitinib, doctors will regularly monitor the patient's condition and the safety of the drug. This may include blood tests, liver function tests, and other necessary laboratory tests.

7. Pay attention to side effects: Axitinib may cause a series of side effects of varying degrees, including but not limited to high blood pressure, hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, pain in hands and feet), proteinuria, fatigue, etc. Patients should pay close attention to their physical condition during medication and report any discomfort to their doctor in a timely manner.

8. Contraindicated in pregnant women: The effect of axitinib on the fetus is unclear, so it is contraindicated in pregnant women. While using axitinib, female patients need to take effective contraceptive measures and avoid pregnancy during treatment and for a certain period of time after treatment.

9. Drug Interactions: While using axitinib, patients should inform their doctor of other drugs they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.

In general, patients should fully understand the doctor's recommendations before using axitinib, use the medication correctly according to the doctor's instructions, and receive regular monitoring and evaluation by the doctor during the medication period. This helps ensure the effectiveness of the medication, reduces the risk of side effects, and improves the safety of the treatment. If patients have any concerns or discomfort about axitinib, they should communicate with their doctor in a timely manner.

Axitinib has been launched in China and has been included in medical insurance. Patients can purchase it domestically. The price of 5mg*28 tablets is about 5,000 to 6,000 yuan. For specific prices, please consult the local hospital pharmacy. There are original and generic axitinib drugs abroad. The original drug is Pfizer's original drug, and the price is about 6,000 yuan; the generic drugs are mainly Bangladeshi generics and Indian generics. The price of Bangladeshi generics in 5mg*60 tablets is more than 1,000 yuan, and the price of Indian generics is around a few hundred yuan. The ingredients of original drugs and generic drugs are basically the same.