Vandetanib

Information about Vandetanib

Vandetanib uses

Vandetanib is used in the treatment of thyroid cancer.

How vandetanib works

Vandetanib works by preventing the action of an abnormal protein that triggers the multiplication of cancer cells thereby slowing or stopping the spread of cancer cells.

Common side effects of vandetanib

Gastrointestinal disturbance, Skin and cutaneous disorders, High blood pressure, Prolonged QT interval, Decreased calcium level in blood, Decreased appetite, Protein in urine, Decreased level of thyroid hormones, Muscle spasm, Appendicitis, Cataract, Brain swelling, Convulsion, Intestinal perforation, Bowel incontinence, Aneurysm, Arterial dissection, Artery rupture, Impaired wound healing

Available Medicine for Vandetanib

Expert advice for Vandetanib

  • Vandetanib can cause a change in the electrical activity of your heart called QT prolongation, which can cause irregular heartbeats and that may lead to death. You should not take Vandetanib if you have had a condition called long QT syndrome since birth.
  • Your doctor may perform tests to check the levels of your blood potassium, calcium, magnesium, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) as well as the electrical activity of your heart with a test called an electrocardiogram (ECG).
  • Limit exposure to the sun. Vandetanib can make your skin sensitive to the sun.
  • Vandetanib may cause a breathing problem called interstitial lung disease that can lead to death. Tell your doctor right away if you experience sudden or worsening shortness of breath or cough.


Content on this page was last updated on 12 September, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)