Cabometyx (Cabozantinib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Cabometyx Used For?
Cabometyx is a medication that contains cabozantinib, which is used to treat various advanced cancers.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used for advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer), liver cancer in adults previously treated with sorafenib, differentiated thyroid cancer that has spread and progressed after VEGFR-targeted treatment, and neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas, stomach, intestine, lung, or other areas.
How It Works
Cabometyx works by blocking proteins known as receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) that are involved in cancer cell growth and blood vessel development, thereby slowing tumor growth and cutting off the blood supply to the cancer.
Good to know: Cabometyx is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Cabometyx
It is important to take Cabometyx exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is 60 mg taken once daily. If used with nivolumab for advanced kidney cancer, the recommended dose is 40 mg once daily. Take the tablet whole with a full glass of water, and do not take it with food.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's been less than 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember. If it's been more than 12 hours, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- fatigue
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- diarrhea
- decreased appetite
- weight loss
- dry mouth
- skin rash
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- severe bleeding (vomiting blood, black stools, bloody urine)
- gastrointestinal perforation (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever)
- liver problems (drowsiness, confusion)
- lung infection (coughing, difficulty breathing)
- kidney failure
- blood clots
- heart attack
- stroke
Impulse Control Issues
Cabometyx may lead to impulse control problems, including gambling and spending issues.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Cabometyx.
Who Should Not Take Cabometyx
Do not take Cabometyx if you are allergic to cabozantinib or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have high blood pressure, a history of aneurysms, recent significant bleeding, recent surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, blood clots, liver or kidney disease, heart conditions, or if you have diarrhea.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid taking Cabometyx during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after stopping.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should use caution when taking Cabometyx.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Cabometyx.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Cabometyx as it may increase drug levels in the blood.
- itraconazole
- ketoconazole
- posaconazole
- erythromycin
- clarithromycin
- rifampicin
- fexofenadine
- ranolazine
- phenytoin
- carbamazepine
- phenobarbital
- St. John's Wort
- warfarin
- dabigatran etexilate
- ambrisentan
- digoxin
- tolvaptan
- saxagliptin
- sitagliptin
- colchicine
- efavirenz
- ritonavir
- maraviroc
- emtricitabine
- ciclosporin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while taking Cabometyx.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may exacerbate side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Cabometyx may cause fatigue or weakness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Storage
Store Cabometyx in its original container in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or going to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Cabometyx to work can vary by individual and condition, so consult your doctor for specific expectations.
No, Cabometyx should not be taken with food. Avoid eating for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after taking the medication.
Cabometyx is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Cabometyx suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Cabometyx, as it may increase side effects.
Weight loss is a common side effect of Cabometyx, not weight gain.
Elderly patients should use caution when taking Cabometyx, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it's been less than 12 hours; otherwise, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.