Nexavar is the brand name for sorafenib, a prescription medication used in the treatment of cancer. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, Nexavar slows down the growth of cancer cells and decreases the spread of those cells throughout the body. Nexavar is used primarily to treat kidney and liver cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, Nexavar is used in adults with cancer that cannot be treated with surgery.
Considerations
Mayo Clinic states before taking Nexavar the risks and benefits must be discussed. The final decision should be made between the patient and the health care provider.
Use
According to Mayo Clinic, Nexavar should be taken on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after eating. The dose of Nexavar differs from patient to patient. The strength of medication and medical problem establishes the number of doses taken in a day and the amount of time patients take Nexavar. Take a skipped dose as soon as you remember unless it is close to time for the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not double up doses of this medication. Store the medication in a closed bottle at room temperature in a dry place away from direct light.
Precautions
Mayo Clinic states it is important to schedule and keep regular appointments with a health care provider while taking Nexavar. Blood pressure should be taken at least once a week, especially during the initial six weeks of treatment. This medication can harm an unborn child. According to Mayo Clinic, men and women should use reliable birth control for at least two weeks after stopping Nexavar treatment. Nexavar can cause skin problems. Notify a health care provider if redness, pain, swelling or blisters develop on the palms of the hands or soles of the foot. According to the Mayo Clinic this could indicate hand-foot syndrome. Nexavar can cause serious heart, abdominal and circulation problems. Immediate action should be taken if chest pain, discomfort or pain in the arms, jaw, back or neck, difficulty breathing, abdominal cramps, bloody or black tarry stools or vomiting that looks like coffee grounds occur. The Mayo Clinic states bleeding and bruising increase when taking this medication. Use caution when brushing teeth, shaving, clipping fingernails or using sharp objects.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common side effects of Nexavar include stomach pain, bleeding gum's, bloating, blood in urine and stools, blurred vision, blood in sputum, dark urine, trouble breathing or swallowing, dizziness, headache, increased vaginal bleeding, nervousness, nose bleeds and irregular heart rate. Some of the less common side effects include bone pain, confusion, constipation, seizures, chest pain, hair loss, and sore throat.
Dose Forms
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Nexavar is available in a 200mg tablet.
Federal Approval
Nexavar is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of liver and kidney cancer.
