What Is Axitinib and How Is It Used in Kidney Cancer?
Axitinib (brand name Inlyta) is an oral targeted therapy used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a common form of kidney cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which block signals that tumors use to grow and make new blood vessels.
Axitinib is often used:
- As a second-line treatment after the cancer no longer responds to a first treatment
- In combination with immunotherapy (such as pembrolizumab) as a first-line option for advanced cases
How Does It Work?
Axitinib targets specific proteins called VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3. These proteins play a key role in:
- Angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels)
- Tumor growth and spread
By blocking these proteins, axitinib helps cut off the tumor’s blood supply, which can slow or stop its growth.
How Is It Taken?
- Axitinib is taken by mouth, usually twice daily
- Doses may vary (commonly 5 mg twice daily) and can be adjusted based on tolerance
- It should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food
Because it is a long-term treatment, patients are monitored regularly with scans and blood tests.
Common Side Effects
Like other TKIs, axitinib can cause:
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Hand-foot syndrome (pain, redness, or peeling skin on hands and feet)
- Appetite loss
- Hoarseness
- Weight loss
Doctors may adjust the dose or add medications to manage side effects.
Is It Effective?
Axitinib has been shown to improve progression-free survival in advanced kidney cancer, especially when used in combination with pembrolizumab. For patients who have failed earlier treatments, it remains a strong option to help control the disease.
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