What Is Pazopanib and How Is It Used in Kidney Cancer?

Pazopanib (brand name Votrient) is a targeted oral therapy used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a common form of kidney cancer. It is part of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) class of drugs, designed to block specific proteins that help tumors grow and spread.

Pazopanib is typically used:

  • As a first-line treatment for advanced kidney cancer in patients who may not be candidates for immunotherapy
  • As a second-line option when other drugs are not suitable

How Does It Work?

Pazopanib works by blocking several proteins that tumors use to survive and grow, including:

  • VEGFR (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor)
  • PDGFR (platelet-derived growth factor receptor)
  • c-KIT

By targeting these receptors, pazopanib:

  • Reduces blood flow to the tumor (anti-angiogenesis)
  • Slows tumor growth
  • Helps control spread of the disease

How Is It Taken?

  • Taken by mouth, once daily, usually at a dose of 800 mg
  • Must be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal
  • Swallow whole—do not crush or chew

Doctors monitor liver function and blood pressure during treatment and may adjust the dose if needed.

Common Side Effects

While generally well tolerated, pazopanib may cause:

  • Fatigue
  • High blood pressure
  • Diarrhea
  • Hair color changes (lightening or graying)
  • Nausea
  • Liver function changes

Rare but serious effects include liver toxicity, heart problems, and bleeding issues, so regular follow-up is essential.

Is It Effective?

Pazopanib has been shown to delay disease progression and shrink tumors in many patients with advanced kidney cancer. It may be less commonly used today compared to newer immunotherapy-based treatments but remains a valuable option, especially when immunotherapy isn’t suitable.

Looking for more questions?

Visit our Kidney Cancer Questions page for all other topics explained in plain language.

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