Common side effects and manifestations of Axitinib targeted drugs

Axitinib (Axitinib) is an oral small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor that mainly inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)1, 2 and 3 block tumor angiogenesis, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. As a first-line or second-line targeted drug for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and some other solid tumors, axitinib has attracted much attention due to its good efficacy. But at the same time, while drugs inhibit tumors, they can also cause certain side effects and affect the patient's quality of life. This article will detail the common side effects and manifestations of axitinib to help patients and clinicians better understand and manage these adverse reactions.

Hypertension is one of the most common and important side effects of axitinib. Because axitinib inhibits VEGFR, resulting in vasoconstriction and increased blood flow resistance, patients are prone to increase in blood pressure during medication. Clinically, hypertension often occurs in the early stages of medication, manifesting as symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and heart palpitations. In severe cases, it can cause cardiovascular events. For this reason, doctors usually assess the patient's basic blood pressure before treatment, closely monitor blood pressure changes during medication, and if necessary, give antihypertensive drugs to control blood pressure and ensure patient safety.

Gastrointestinal reactions are common side effects of axitinib, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually noticeable early in treatment, and some patients may experience weight loss and malnutrition. Diarrhea may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. In severe cases, timely rehydration and adjustment of drug dosage are required. For gastrointestinal discomfort, doctors may advise patients to adjust their diet, avoid greasy and irritating foods, and use antidiarrheal or anti-nausea medications to relieve symptoms.

Thyroid dysfunction is also a concern during axitinib treatment. Some patients may develop hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism during use, manifesting as fatigue, weight changes, abnormal heart rate, etc. Regular detection of thyroid function indicators is very important for early detection of abnormalities. Once abnormalities are discovered, thyroid hormone replacement therapy or other corresponding interventions should be given promptly to avoid aggravation of the condition and affecting the treatment effect.

Other common side effects include fatigue, hand-foot syndrome, mouth ulcers and abnormal liver function. Fatigue may affect the patient's ability to perform daily activities and needs to be relieved through appropriate rest and nutritional support. Hand-foot syndrome manifests as redness, swelling, pain and even peeling of the palms and soles of the feet. In severe cases, it may affect the quality of life. Patients should pay attention to skin care and avoid friction and high temperature stimulation. Oral ulcers can make eating difficult, so keep your mouth clean and use topical treatments. Abnormal liver function is often manifested by elevated transaminases. Liver function indicators need to be monitored regularly and treatment plans adjusted if necessary.

In summary, axitinib, as an effective targeted therapy drug, can significantly delay tumor progression, but its multiple side effects cannot be ignored. During the period of treatment with axitinib, patients should regularly monitor blood pressure, liver function and thyroid function under the guidance of a doctor, pay attention to changes in gastrointestinal and skin symptoms, and report discomfort in a timely manner. Through reasonable side effect management and supportive treatment, patients' treatment tolerance and quality of life can be maximized and the treatment effect can be optimized.

Reference materials:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axitinib