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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