Sutent (Sunitinib Malate) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Sutent

Kidney Cancer »

The kidneys

The kidneys are a pair of organs on either side of the spine in the lower abdomen. Each kidney is about the size of a fist. Attached to the top of each kidney is an adrenal gland. A mass of fatty tissue and an outer layer of fibrous tissue (Gerota's fascia) enclose the kidneys and adrenal glands.

The kidneys are part of the urinary tract. They make urine by removing wastes and extra water from the blood. Urine collects in a hollow space (renal pelvis) in the middle of each kidney. It passes from the renal pelvis into the bladder through a tube called a ureter. Urine leaves the body through another tube (the urethra).

The kidneys also make substances that help control blood pressure and the production of red blood cells.

Understanding cancer

Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up ...

Read the Kidney Cancer article »

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Sutent Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

SUNITINIB - ORAL

(soo-NI-ti-nib)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Sutent

WARNING: Rarely, sunitinib has caused severe (sometimes fatal) liver problems. Get medical help right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems such as persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing eyes/skin. Your doctor will monitor for liver problems with blood tests. Tell all of your doctors and pharmacists if you have ever stopped taking sunitinib because of liver problems (including high liver enzymes).

USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer (kidney and intestinal). Sunitinib works by stopping or slowing the growth of cancer tumors. It also works by slowing the growth of new blood vessels within the tumor.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking sunitinib and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily for 4 weeks followed by 2 weeks off, or as directed by your doctor.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often without your doctor's approval. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.