NEXAVAR (SORAFENIB)

Description of Nexavar

Nexavar is an anti angiogenesis inhibitor that specifically targets a tumors’ blood supply. Cancer treatments usually focus on killing the rapid dividing cells that are a telling feature of cancer cells. However, during this process, some of the normal cells in our body also divide rapidly so they are destroyed, too , although some will recover when cancer therapy is halted or during remission.

How Nexavar Helps Treat Cancer

Nexavar or the generic Sorafenib treats thyroid, liver, and advanced kidney cancer by providing a drug therapy that focuses on depriving the tumor of its blood supply by affecting a number of enzymes on the cancer cell surface and inside the cell as well. Without oxygen and nutrients, the tumor is unable to grow and without the ability to make blood vessels there is no way to form new tumors. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand name product.

Cancers Treated by Nexavar

Thyroid cancer is not very common but it seems to be on the rise. It is thought that the increase of thyroid cancers is due to today’s technology that makes it possible to detect this type of cancer in its early stages. Years ago when x-rays were performed for everything from acne to tonsillitis, your thyroid gland would have been exposed to the radiation. Another factor for thyroid cancer is from exposure to radiation during other cancer treatments in or near the head and neck area. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections and cirrhosis of the liver can increase your risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer. Risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, hypertension, and obesity.

Before You Take Nexavar

It’s important to tell your doctor about other medical conditions you have before taking Nexavar or generic Sorafenib as it may cause unwanted side effects. List current medications you are taking, including Rx and OTC drugs, herbal therapy, or vitamin supplements as combining certain meds could change their efficacy. Ask if Nexavar is safe to take if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding.

Important Info About Nexavar

Treatment with Nexavar may slow wound healing; it may be necessary to stop taking this medication temporarily if you require surgery. Your blood pressure should be closely monitored while you are taking Nexavar; additional medication may be required to treat high blood pressure. All medications should be kept out of children’s reach and never shared with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Nexavar

• Abdominal pain
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Rash
• Fatigue