Votrient is an oral tablet made up of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor called pazopanib. We carry the brand choice of this medication in 200mg. 

Votrient is a medicine used for cancer patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer). It is not clear what the exact cause of kidney cancer is, however, doctors do know that there are certain risk factors one may have, such as old age, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, family history, and more. Kidney cancer may cause symptoms such as bloody urine, pain in the side of the torso, weight loss, fever, and fatigue and if it goes untreated, the cancer could spread to other areas of the body and though unlikely and rare, death from the condition can become a result. Additionally, this medication can be used to treat a tumor that can develop in or around areas such as muscles, tendons, joints, organs, or blood vessels (soft muscle sarcoma).

Votrient (pazopanib) is effective at treating kidney cancer and certain tumors because as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, it is able to decrease the blood flowing to the cancer or soft tissue sarcoma tumor, which slows the growth and progression of the cancer/tumor.

Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. For the full benefit of the medication, ensure you take it regularly and create a routine by taking it around the same time every day.

Votrient is best taken on an empty stomach; take this medication at least 1 hour prior or 2 hours following a meal. Avoid crushing this medication; do not chew. Swallow this tablet whole with a full glass of water.

Store this medication in room temperature in a low risk area of heat or moisture; keep in an area not accessible by children or pets.

This medication should not be used by those who have severe liver disease or those allergic to pazopanib.

Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. Votrient can harm an unborn baby.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required.

Before starting treatment, it is crucial you tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease, heart disease, heart rhythm disorder, long QT syndrome, high blood pressure, a blood clot or stoke, a thyroid disorder, headaches, seizures, or vision problems, a hole, tear, or abnormal passageway within/in your stomach or intestines, stomach or intestinal bleeding in the last 6 months, or a surgery within the past week (7days).

Risks

Votrient can cause serious and life-threatening liver problems; you should ensure you have the necessary medical tests scheduled during the time of treatment; do not miss any doctor’s appointments during this time. See side effects for signs of liver problems.

This medication may cause you to bleed or get an infection more easily. If you notice signs of these conditions, contact your doctor. See side effects for signs of bleeding or infections.

Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while being treated with Votrient; this medication can harm an unborn baby.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk or if it will harm a nursing infant; you should avoid breastfeeding while using this medication until you have discussed the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Common side effects of Votrient (pazopanib) may include:

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain; loss of appetite, weight loss; trouble breathing; tumor pain, bone pain, muscle pain; headache, feeling tired; changes in hair color; or changes in your sense of taste.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Votrient (pazopanib) may include:

unusual bleeding or bruising; slow healing of a wound or surgical incision, or any wound that will not heal; sudden chest pain or discomfort, wheezing, dry cough; headache, confusion, change in mental status, vision loss, seizure (convulsions).

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

a stroke or blood clot - sudden numbness or weakness, severe headache, slurred speech, vision problems, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, pain or cold feeling in an arm or leg;

heart attack symptoms - chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating;

other heart problems - feeling short of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling or rapid weight gain, headache with chest pain and severe dizziness, fainting, fast or pounding heartbeats;

stomach bleeding - bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

infection - fever, sore throat, cough, flu symptoms, body aches, skin sores, pain or burning when you urinate; or

increased blood pressure - severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety.

What other drugs may interact with pazopanib?

Other drugs that may interact with pazopanib include drugs found in antibiotics, antidepressants, heart rhythm medicine, HIV or AIDS medications, stomach acid reducers, and cholesterol medicine containing simvastatin.

Can children use this medication?

It is not recommended for children, especially children younger than two years old. Children may experience too harsh of side effects.

What if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, or skip it if your next dose is approaching soon. Do not attempt to make up for a missed dose by doubling up on dosages.

What should I avoid while using Votrient?

You should avoid eating grapefruit products while taking Votrient. These types of products may cause unwanted side effects when mixed with pazopanib.