Tivozanib (Fotivda): Targeted Therapy for Kidney Cancer
Tivozanib acts like a sniper rifle in the battle against kidney cancer. It is a highly selective targeted therapy (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) that blocks VEGF signals. In simple terms, it forbids the tumor from building new blood vessels. Cut off from its blood supply and nutrients, the cancer "starves" and stops growing.
Known by the brand name Fotivda, Tivozanib is designed to hit the target precisely while sparing healthy tissues more effectively than older drugs. It offers a vital lifeline to patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma when previous treatments have failed.
At Unifarm, we provide access to this next-generation therapy aimed at extending survival and maintaining quality of life for advanced cancer patients.
Indications
- Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): Treatment for adult patients with relapsed or refractory kidney cancer. Tivozanib is typically used as a third- or fourth-line therapy after the patient has already tried at least two other systemic treatments (such as sunitinib or immunotherapy) without success.
Dosage and administration
Tivozanib comes in capsules and follows a specific cycle designed to allow the body to recover reducing side effects.
The 28-Day Cycle:
- 21 Days On: Take one capsule (1340 mcg) once daily.
- 7 Days Off: A rest period with no medication.
Instructions: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Try to take it at the same time every day. If you miss a dose, do not double up—just continue with the next scheduled dose.
- Hypersensitivity to Tivozanib or tartrazine (dye).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (harmful to the fetus).
- Severe liver impairment.
- Concomitant use of St. John's Wort (reduces drug efficacy).
- Children under 18 years.
While Tivozanib is often better tolerated than older TKIs, side effects must be monitored, especially blood pressure.
- Very Common: Hypertension (high blood pressure) — requires regular monitoring and management.
- Voice: Dysphonia (hoarseness) — a signature side effect of this drug class.
- General: Fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss.
- Digestive: Diarrhea, nausea.
- Warning: Contact your oncologist immediately if you experience severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or uncontrollable blood pressure spikes.
