Vandetanib (vandetanib 300 mg) Dailymed
Generic: vandetanib
IMPRINT: Z 100
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COLOR: white
Boxed Warning
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Boxed Warning Section
WARNING: QT PROLONGATION, TORSADES DE POINTES, AND SUDDEN DEATH
Vandetanib can prolong the QT interval. Torsades de pointes and sudden death have been reported in patients receiving vandetanib. Vandetanib should not be used in patients with hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome. Hypocalcemia, hypokalemia and/or hypomagnesemia must be corrected prior to vandetanib administration and should be periodically monitored. Drugs known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided. If a drug known to prolong the QT interval must be administered, more frequent ECG monitoring is recommended. Given the half-life of 19 days, ECGs should be obtained to monitor the QT at baseline, at 2-4 weeks and 8-12 weeks after starting treatment with vandetanib and every 3 months thereafter. Following any dose reduction for QT prolongation, or any dose interruptions greater than 2 weeks, QT assessment should be conducted as described above. Because of the 19-day half-life, adverse reactions including a prolonged QT interval may not resolve quickly. Monitor appropriately. Only prescribers and pharmacies certified through the vandetanib REMS education program are able to prescribe and dispense vandetanib [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15)].
WARNING: QT PROLONGATION, TORSADES DE POINTES, AND SUDDEN DEATH
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Vandetanib can prolong the QT interval. Torsades de pointes and sudden death have been reported in patients receiving vandetanib. Vandetanib should not be used in patients with hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome. Hypocalcemia, hypokalemia and/or hypomagnesemia must be corrected prior to vandetanib administration and should be periodically monitored. Drugs known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided. If a drug known to prolong the QT interval must be administered, more frequent ECG monitoring is recommended. Given the half-life of 19 days, ECGs should be obtained to monitor the QT at baseline, at 2-4 weeks and 8-12 weeks after starting treatment with vandetanib and every 3 months thereafter. Following any dose reduction for QT prolongation, or any dose interruptions greater than 2 weeks, QT assessment should be conducted as described above. Because of the 19-day half-life, adverse reactions including a prolonged QT interval may not resolve quickly. Monitor appropriately. Only prescribers and pharmacies certified through the vandetanib REMS education program are able to prescribe and dispense vandetanib(5.15) .
1. Indications And Usage
Vandetanib is a kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic disease.
Use of vandetanib in patients with indolent, asymptomatic or slowly progressing disease should be carefully considered because of the treatment related risks of vandetanib.
1.1. Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)
Vandetanib is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic disease.
Use of vandetanib in patients with indolent, asymptomatic or slowly progressing disease should be carefully considered because of the treatment related risks of vandetanib.
2. Dosage And Administration
The recommended daily dose is 300 mg of vandetanib taken orally. Vandetanib treatment should be continued until patients are no longer benefiting from treatment or an unacceptable toxicity occurs.
Vandetanib may be taken with or without food.
If a patient misses a dose, the missed dose should not be taken if it is less than 12 hours before the next dose.
For Patients who have Difficulty Swallowing Solids
Vandetanib tablets should not be crushed. If vandetanib tablets cannot be taken whole, the tablets can be dispersed in a glass containing 2 ounces of non-carbonated water and stirred for approximately 10 minutes until the tablet is dispersed (will not completely dissolve). No other liquids should be used. The dispersion should be swallowed immediately. To ensure the full dose is received, any residues in the glass should be mixed again with an additional 4 ounces of non-carbonated water and swallowed.
The dispersion can also be administered through nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes.
Direct contact of crushed tablets with the skin or mucous membranes should be avoided. If such contact occurs, wash thoroughly. Avoid exposure to crushed tablets.
300 mg once daily ( 2 )Vandetanib may be taken with or without food. Dosage reduction may be necessary in the event of severe toxicities or QTc interval prolongation. ( 2.1 )The starting dose should be reduced to 200 mg in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. 2.1 Dosage Adjustment
In the event of corrected QT interval, Fridericia (QTcF) greater than 500 ms, interrupt dosing until QTcF returns to less than 450 ms, then resume at a reduced dose.
For CTCAE (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events) grade 3 or greater toxicity, interrupt dosing until toxicity resolves or improves to CTCAE grade 1, and then resume at a reduced dose.
Because of the 19-day half-life, adverse reactions including a prolonged QT interval may not resolve quickly. Monitor appropriately [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1-5.7, 5.9)].
The 300-mg daily dose can be reduced to 200 mg (two 100-mg tablets) and then to 100 mg for CTCAE grade 3 or greater toxicities.
2.2 Elderly
No adjustment in starting dose is required for patients over 65 years of age. There are limited data for patients over the age of 75. [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]
2.3 Concomitant Strong CYP3A4 Inducers
Avoid the concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., dexamethasone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital). Patients should also avoid taking St. John’s Wort. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)and Drug Interactions (7.1)]
2.4 Patients With Renal Impairment
The starting dose should be reduced to 200 mg in patients with moderate (creatinine clearance ≥30 to <50 mL/min) and severe (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) renal impairment. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]
2.5 Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Single dose pharmacokinetic data from volunteers with hepatic impairment receiving 800 mg suggest that there were no differences in pharmacokinetics compared to patients with normal hepatic function. There are limited data in patients with liver impairment (serum bilirubin greater than 1.5 times the upper limit of normal). Vandetanib is not recommended for use in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) and severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment, as safety and efficacy have not been established.
3. Dosage Forms & Strengths
Vandetanib 100-mg tablets are white, round, biconvex, film-coated, and intagliated with ‘Z 100‘ on one side and plain on the reverse side.
Vandetanib 300-mg tablets are white, oval, biconvex, film-coated, and intagliated with ‘Z 300’ on one side and plain on the reverse side.
100 mg and 300 mg tablets (3 )
4. Contraindications
Do not use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome [see Boxed Warning].
Do not use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome.
5. Warnings And Precautions
Prolonged QT Interval, Torsades de pointes, and sudden death have been reported. Monitor electrocardiograms and levels of serum potassium, calcium, magnesium and TSH at baseline, 2-4 weeks and 8-12 weeks after starting treatment with vandetanib, and every 3 months thereafter and following dose adjustments. Dose reduce as appropriate ( 2.1 ,5.1 ).Stevens-Johnson syndrome resulting in death has been observed. Severe skin reactions may prompt permanent discontinuation of vandetanib ( 2.1 ,5.2 ).Interstitial lung disease, resulting in death has been reported. Interrupt vandetanib and investigate unexplained dyspnea, cough, and fever. Appropriate measures should be taken for ILD ( 2.1 ,5.3 ).Ischemic cerebrovascular events, hemorrhage, heart failure, diarrhea, hypothyroidism, hypertension, and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, have been observed ( 2.1, 5.4 ,5.5 ,5.6 ,5.7 ,5.8 ,5.9 ,5.10 ).Vandetanib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women should be advised to avoid pregnancy while receiving vandetanib and for four months following treatment ( 5.14 ,8.1 ).Because of the risks of QT prolongation, Torsades de pointes and sudden death, vandetanib is available only through a restricted distribution program called the Vandetanib REMS Program. Only prescribers and pharmacies certified with the program are able to prescribe and dispense vandetanib. To learn about the specific REMS requirements and to enroll in the Vandetanib REMS Program call 1-800-236–9933 or visit www.vandetanibrems.com ( 5.15 ).5.1 QT Prolongation and Torsades de Pointes
Vandetanib can prolong the QT interval in a concentration-dependent manner [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4)]. Torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia and sudden deaths have been reported in patients administered vandetanib.
Vandetanib treatment should not be started in patients whose QTcF interval is greater than 450 ms. Vandetanib should not be given to patients who have a history of Torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, bradyarrhythmias or uncompensated heart failure. Vandetanib has not been studied in patients with ventricular arrhythmias or recent myocardial infarction. Vandetanib exposure is increased in patients with impaired renal function. The starting dose should be reduced to 200 mg in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment and QT interval should be monitored closely.
An ECG and levels of serum potassium, calcium, magnesium and TSH should be obtained at baseline, at 2-4 weeks and 8-12 weeks after starting treatment with vandetanib and every 3 months thereafter. Electrolytes and ECGs may require more frequent monitoring in case of diarrhea. Following any dose reduction for QT prolongation, or any dose interruptions greater than 2 weeks, QT assessments should be conducted as described above. Serum potassium levels should be maintained at 4 mEq/L or higher (within normal range) and serum magnesium and serum calcium should be kept within normal range to reduce the risk of electrocardiogram QT prolongation.
Avoid using vandetanib with drugs known to prolong the electrocardiogram QT interval [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) and Drug Interactions (7.3)]. If such drugs are given to patients already receiving vandetanib and no alternative therapy exists, ECG monitoring of the QT interval should be performed more frequently.
Patients who develop a QTcF greater than 500 ms should stop taking vandetanib until QTcF returns to less than 450 ms. Dosing of vandetanib can be resumed at a reduced dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
5.2 Skin Reactions and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Severe skin reactions (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome), some leading to death, have been reported with vandetanib. Treatment of severe skin reactions has included systemic corticosteroids and permanent discontinuation of vandetanib. Mild to moderate skin reactions may manifest as rash, acne, dry skin, dermatitis, pruritis and other skin reactions (including photosensitivity reactions and palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome). Mild to moderate skin reactions have been treated with topical and systemic corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, and topical and systemic antibiotics. If CTCAE grade 3 or greater skin reactions occur, vandetanib treatment should be stopped until improved. Upon improvement, consideration should be given to continuing treatment at a reduced dose or permanent discontinuation of vandetanib. [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]
Photosensitivity reactions are increased with vandetanib. Patients should be advised to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to the sun. Due to the long half-life of vandetanib, protective clothing and sunscreen should continue for 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.
5.3 Interstitial Lung Disease
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) or pneumonitis has been observed with vandetanib and deaths have been reported. Consider a diagnosis of ILD in patients presenting with non-specific respiratory signs and symptoms such as hypoxia, pleural effusion, cough, or dyspnea, and in whom infectious, neoplastic, and other causes have been excluded by means of appropriate investigations. Advise patients to report promptly any new or worsening respiratory symptoms.
Patients who develop radiological changes suggestive of ILD and have few or no symptoms may continue vandetanib therapy with close monitoring at the discretion of the treating physician.
If symptoms are moderate, consider interrupting therapy until symptoms improve. The use of corticosteroids and antibiotics may be indicated.
For cases where symptoms of ILD are severe, discontinue vandetanib therapy and the use of corticosteroids and antibiotics may be indicated until clinical symptoms resolve. Even upon resolution of severe ILD, permanent discontinuation of vandetanib should be considered.
5.4 Ischemic Cerebrovascular Events
Ischemic cerebrovascular events have been observed with vandetanib and some cases have been fatal. In the randomized medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) study, ischemic cerebrovascular events were observed more frequently with vandetanib compared to placebo (1.3% compared to 0%) and no deaths were reported. The safety of resumption of vandetanib therapy after resolution of an ischemic cerebrovascular event has not been studied. Discontinue vandetanib in patients who experience a severe ischemic cerebrovascular event.
5.5 Hemorrhage
Serious hemorrhagic events, which in some cases were fatal, have been observed with vandetanib. There were no fatal bleeding events in the randomized MTC study. Three patients died of fatal bleeding events while on vandetanib therapy in clinical studies. Do not administer vandetanib to patients with recent history of hemoptysis of ≥ 1/2 teaspoon of red blood. Discontinue vandetanib in patients with severe hemorrhage.
5.6 Heart Failure
Heart failure has been observed with vandetanib and some cases have been fatal. Discontinuation of vandetanib may be necessary in patients with heart failure. Heart failure may not be reversible upon stopping vandetanib. Monitor for signs and symptoms of heart failure.
5.7 Diarrhea
Diarrhea was observed in patients who received vandetanib. Routine anti-diarrheal agents are recommended. Diarrhea may cause electrolyte imbalances. Since QT prolongation is seen with vandetanib, serum electrolytes and ECGs should be carefully monitored in patients with diarrhea. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] If severe diarrhea develops, vandetanib treatment should be stopped until diarrhea improves. Upon improvement, treatment with vandetanib should be resumed at a reduced dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
5.8 Hypothyroidism
In the randomized MTC study where 90% of the patients enrolled had prior thyroidectomy, increases in the dose of the thyroid replacement therapy were required in 49% of the patients randomized to vandetanib compared to 17% of the patients randomized to placebo. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) should be obtained at baseline, at 2 to 4 weeks and 8 to 12 weeks after starting treatment with vandetanib and every 3 months thereafter. If signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism occur, thyroid hormone levels should be examined and thyroid replacement therapy should be adjusted accordingly.
5.9 Hypertension
Hypertension, including hypertensive crisis, has been observed with vandetanib. All patients should be monitored for hypertension and it should be controlled as appropriate. Dose reduction or interruption may be necessary. If high blood pressure cannot be controlled, vandetanib should not be restarted [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
5.10 Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome
Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS), a syndrome of subcortical vasogenic edema diagnosed by an MRI of the brain, has been observed with vandetanib. This syndrome should be considered in any patient presenting with seizures, headache, visual disturbances, confusion or altered mental function. In clinical studies, three of four patients who developed RPLS while taking vandetanib, including one pediatric patient, also had hypertension. Discontinuation of vandetanib treatment in patients with RPLS should be considered.
5.11 Drug Interactions
The administration of vandetanib with agents that are strong CYP3A4 inducers should be avoided [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)and Drug Interactions (7.1)].
The administration of vandetanib with anti-arrhythmic drugs (including, but not limited to amiodarone, disopyramide, procainamide, sotalol, dofetilide) and other drugs that may prolong the QT interval (including but not limited to cloroquine, clarithromycin, dolasetron, granisetron, haloperidol, methadone, moxifloxacin, and pimozide) should be avoided [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].
5.12 Renal Impairment
Vandetanib exposure is increased in patients with impaired renal function. The starting dose should be reduced to 200 mg in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment and QT interval should be monitored closely. There is no information available for patients with end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis. [see Boxed Warning, Dosage and Administration (2.4)and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]
5.13 Hepatic Impairment
Vandetanib is not recommended for use in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, as safety and efficacy have not been established. [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]
5.14 Use in Pregnancy
Vandetanib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women using vandetanib. In nonclinical studies in rats, vandetanib was embryotoxic, fetotoxic, and teratogenic, at exposures equivalent to or lower than those expected at the recommended human dose of 300 mg/day. As expected from its pharmacological actions, vandetanib has shown significant effects on all stages of female reproduction in rats.
If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with vandetanib. Women should be advised that they must use effective contraception to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for at least four months following the last dose of vandetanib [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
5.15 Vandetanib REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) Program
Because of the risk of QT prolongation, Torsades de pointes, and sudden death, vandetanib is available only through a restricted distribution program called Vandetanib REMS Program. Only prescribers and pharmacies certified with the program are able to prescribe and dispense vandetanib.
An overview of the requirements for prescribers and pharmacies is included below.
• To be certified, prescribers must review the educational materials, agree to comply with the REMS requirements and enroll in the program.To be certified, pharmacies that dispense vandetanib must enroll in the program, train their pharmacy staff to verify that each prescription is written by a certified prescriber before dispensing to a patient, and agree to comply with the REMS requirements.
To learn about the specific REMS requirements and to enroll in the Vandetanib REMS Program call 1-800-236-9933 or visit www.vandetanibrems.com.
6. Adverse Reactions
The most commonly reported adverse drug reactions (>20%) have been diarrhea, rash, acne, nausea, hypertension, headache, fatigue, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain. The most common laboratory abnormalities (>20%) were decreased calcium, increased ALT, and decreased glucose [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)and Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3and 5.9)].
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The most common adverse drug reactions (>20%) seen with vandetanib have been diarrhea, rash, acne, nausea, hypertension, headache, fatigue, decreased appetite and abdominal pain. The most common laboratory abnormalities (>20%) were decreased calcium, increased ALT, and decreased glucose (2.1 .5.2 ,5.7 ,5.9 ,6.1 ).
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, Contact AstraZeneca 1–800–236–9933 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1. Clinical Studies Experience
Patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer were treated with vandetanib 300 mg (n=231) or Placebo (n= 99). Patients with investigator-determined progression or patients who continued treatment after the data cut-off could receive open label vandetanib. The following adverse reactions have been reported. [see Clinical Studies (14)]
Table 1 - Adverse Reactions in >10% of Patients on Vandetanib During Randomized Treatment
Preferred Term Vandetanib 300 mg N=231 Placebo N=99
All Grades
Grade 3–4
All Grades
Grade 3–4
Diarrhea/Colitis
132 (57%)
26 (11%)
27 (27%)
2 (2%)
RashIncludes rash, rash erythematous, generalized, macular, maculo-papular, papular, pruritic, exfoliative, dermatitis, dermatitis bullous, generalized erythema and eczema.
123 (53%)
11 (5%)
12 (12%)
0
Dermatitis Acneiform/Acne
81 (35%)
2 (1%)
7 (7%)
0
Nausea
77 (33%)
2 (1%)
16 (16%)
0
Hypertension/Hypertensive Crisis/Accelerated Hypertension
76 (33%)
20 (9%)
5 (5%)
1 (1%)
Headache
59 (26%)
2 (1%)
9 (9%)
0
Fatigue
55 (24%)
13 (6%)
23 (23%)
1 (1%)
Decreased Appetite
49 (21%)
10 (4%)
12 (12%)
0
Abdominal PainIncludes abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, lower abdominal pain and abdominal discomfort
48 (21%)
6 (3%)
11 (11%)
0
Dry Skin
35 (15%)
0
5 (5%)
0
Vomiting
34 (15%)
2 (1%)
7 (7%)
0
Asthensia
34 (15%)
6 (3%)
11 (11%)
1 (1%)
ECG QT Prolonged69% had QT prolongation >450ms and 7% had QT prolongation >500ms by ECG using Fridericia correction.
33 (14%)
18 (8%)
1 (1%)
1 (1%)
Photosensitivity Reaction
31 (13%)
4 (2%)
0
0
Insomnia
30 (13%)
0
10 (10%)
0
Nasopharyngitis
26 (11%)
0
10 (10%)
0
Dyspepsia
25 (11%)
0
4 (4%)
0
Hypocalcemia
25 (11%)
4 (2%)
3 (3%)
0
Cough
25 (11%)
0
10 (10%)
0
Pruritus
25 (11%)
3 (1%)
4 (4%)
0
Weight Decreased
24 (10%)
2 (1%)
9 (9%)
0
Proteinuria
23 (10%)
0
2 (2%)
0
Depression
22 (10%)
4 (2%)
3 (3%)
0
Adverse reactions resulting in death in patients receiving vandetanib (N=5) were respiratory failure, respiratory arrest, aspiration pneumonia, cardiac failure with arrhythmia, and sepsis. Adverse reactions resulting in death in patients receiving placebo were gastrointestinal hemorrhage (1%) and gastroenteritis (1%). In addition there was one sudden death and one death from cardiopulmonary arrest, in patients receiving vandetanib after data cut-off. Causes of discontinuation in vandetanib-treated patients in >1 patient included asthenia, fatigue, rash, arthralgia, diarrhea, hypertension, prolonged QT interval, increase in creatinine and pyrexia. Serious adverse events in vandetanib-treated patients in >2% of patients included diarrhea, pneumonia, and hypertension. Clinically important uncommon adverse drug reactions in patients who received vandetanib versus patients who received placebo included pancreatitis (0.4% vs. 0%) and heart failure (0.9% vs. 0%). In the integrated summary of safety database, the most common cause of death in patients who received vandetanib was pneumonia.
The incidence of Grade 1-2 bleeding events was 14% in patients receiving vandetanib compared with 7% on placebo in the randomized portion of the medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) study. The incidence was similar in the 300 mg monotherapy safety program with a 13% incidence.
Blurred vision was more common in patients who received vandetanib versus patients who received placebo for medullary thyroid cancer (9% vs. 1%, respectively). Scheduled slit lamp examinations have revealed corneal opacities (vortex keratopathies) in treated patients, which can lead to halos and decreased visual acuity. It is unknown if this will improve after discontinuation. Ophthalmologic examination, including slit lamp, is recommended in patients who report visual changes. If a patient has blurred vision, do not drive or operate machinery.
Table 2 provides the frequency and severity of laboratory abnormalities reported for patients with medullary thyroid cancer receiving randomized treatment with vandetanib or placebo.
Table 2 - Laboratory Abnormalities in Patients with MTC Laboratory Parameter Vandetanib 300 mg Placebo N=99
All Grades
Grade 3–4
All Grades
Grade 3–4
Chemistries
Calcium Decreased
132 (57%)
13 (6%)
25 (25%)
3 (3%)
ALT Increased
118 (51%)
4 (2%)
19 (19%)
0
Glucose Decreased
55 (24%)
0
7 (7%)
1 (1%)
Creatinine Increased
38 (16%)
0
1 (1%)
0
Bilirubin Increased
29 (13%)
0
17 (17%)
0
Magnesium Decreased
17 (17%)
1 (<1%)
2 (2%)
0
Calcium Increased
16 (7%)
2 (1%)
9 (9%)
1 (1%)
Potassium Decreased
15 (6%)
1 (<1%)
3 (3%)
0
Potassium Increased
13 (6%)
1 (<1%)
4 (4%)
2 (2%)
Glucose Increased
12 (5%)
4 (2%)
7 (7%)
0
Magnesium Increased
6 (3%)
0
4 (4%)
0
Hematologic
WBC Decreased
45 (19%)
0
25 (25%)
0
Hemoglobin Decreased
31 (13%)
1 (<1%)
19 (19%)
2 (2%)
Neutrophils Decreased
21 (10%)
1 (<1%)
5 (5%)
2 (2%)
Platelets Decreased
18 (9%)
0
3 (3%)
0
Alanine aminotransferase elevations occurred in 51% of patients on vandetanib in the randomized medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) study. Grade 3-4 ALT elevations were seen in 2% of patients and no patients had a concomitant increase in bilirubin. Elevations in ALT have resulted in temporary discontinuation of vandetanib. However, 16 of 22 patients with a grade 2 elevation in ALT continued 300 mg vandetanib. Seven patients who continued vandetanib had a normal ALT within 6 months. In the protocol, ALT was monitored every 3 months and more frequently as indicated.
7. Drug Interactions
The concomitant use of known strong CYP 3A4 inducers may reduce drug levels of vandetanib and should be avoided (7.1 ). No clinically significant drug interaction was shown with vandetanib and the potent CYP 3A4 inhibitor, itraconazole (7.2 ). The administration of vandetanib with agents that may prolong the QT interval should be avoided (5.11 )
7.1 CYP3A4 Inducers
Drugs that are CYP3A4 inducers can alter vandetanib plasma concentrations. The concomitant use of known strong CYP3A4 inducers should be avoided while receiving vandetanib therapy. St. John’s Wort may decrease vandetanib exposure unpredictably and should be avoided [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)and Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
7.2 CYP3A4 Inhibitors
In healthy subjects, no clinically significant interaction was shown between vandetanib and the potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, itraconazole.
7.3 Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval
The administration of vandetanib with agents that may prolong the QT interval should be avoided [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
8. Use In Specific Populations
8.1. Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category D[see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].
Vandetanib can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of vandetanib in pregnant women. Vandetanib is embryotoxic, fetotoxic, and teratogenic to rats, at exposures equivalent to or lower than those expected at the recommended human dose of 300 mg/day. When vandetanib was administered to female rats prior to mating and through the first week of pregnancy, there were increases in pre-implantation loss and post-implantation loss resulting in a significant reduction in the number of live embryos. This dose administered to rats during organogenesis, caused an increase in post-implantation loss including embryofetal death. Vandetanib caused total litter loss when administered at a dose of 25 mg/kg/day during organogenesis until expected parturition. When administered during organogenesis, vandetanib doses of 1, 10 and 25 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.03, 0.4, and 1.0 times respectively, the Cmax in patients with cancer at the recommended human dose) caused malformations of the heart vessels and delayed ossification of the skull, vertebrae and sternum, indicating delayed fetal development. A no effect level for these malformations was not identified in this study. In a rat pre- and post-natal development study, at doses producing maternal toxicity (1 and 10 mg/kg/day) during gestation and/or lactation, vandetanib, decreased pup survival, and/or reduced post-natal pup growth. Reduced post-natal pup growth was associated with a delay in physical development.
If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid pregnancy while taking vandetanib and for at least four months following the last dose of vandetanib.
8.3. Nursing Mothers
In nonclinical studies, vandetanib was excreted in rat milk and found in plasma of pups following dosing to lactating rats. Vandetanib transfer in breast milk resulted in relatively constant exposure in pups due to the long half-life of the drug. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from vandetanib, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
8.4. Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy of vandetanib in pediatric patients have not been established.
8.5. Geriatric Use
In total, 18% of medullary thyroid cancer patients treated with vandetanib were age 65 years or older, and 3% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety and efficacy were observed between elderly and younger patients. No adjustment in starting dose is required for patients over 65 years of age. There are limited data for patients over the age of 75 years.
8.6 Renal Impairment
The pharmacokinetics of vandetanib were evaluated after a single dose of 800 mg in subjects with mild (n = 6), moderate (n = 8), and severe (n = 6) renal impairment and normal (n = 10) renal function. Subjects with mild renal impairment had comparable mean AUC and clearance values to those with normal renal function. In subjects with moderate and severe renal impairment, the average AUC of vandetanib increased by 39% and 41%, respectively, compared to patients with normal renal function.
The starting dose should be reduced to 200 mg in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)and Warning and Precautions (5.12)].
8.7 Hepatic Impairment
The pharmacokinetics of vandetanib were evaluated after a single dose of 800 mg in subjects with mild (n = 8), moderate (n = 7), and severe (n = 6) hepatic impairment and normal hepatic function (n = 5). Subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A), moderate (Child-Pugh class B), and severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment had comparable mean AUC and clearance values to those with normal hepatic function.
There are limited data in patients with liver impairment (serum bilirubin greater than 1.5 times the upper limit of normal). Vandetanib is not recommended for use in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, as safety and efficacy have not been established. [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)and Warnings and Precautions (5.13)].
10. Overdosage
There is no specific treatment in the event of overdose with vandetanib and possible symptoms of overdose have not been established. Because of the 19-day half-life, adverse reactions may not resolve quickly. In phase 1 clinical trials, a limited number of patients were treated with daily doses of up to 600 mg and healthy volunteers with daily doses up to 1200 mg. An increase in the frequency and severity of some adverse reactions, like rash, diarrhea and hypertension, was observed at multiple doses at and above 300 mg in healthy volunteer studies and in patients. In addition the possibility of QTc prolongation and Torsades de pointes should be considered.
Adverse reactions associated with overdose are to be treated symptomatically; in particular, severe diarrhea must be managed appropriately. In the event of an overdose, further doses of vandetanib must be interrupted, and appropriate measures taken to assure that an adverse event has not occurred, i.e., ECG within 24 hours to determine QTc prolongation [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
11. Description
Vandetanib tablets for daily oral administration are available in two dosage strengths, 100 mg and 300 mg, containing 100 mg and 300 mg of vandetanib, respectively. The tablet cores contain the following inactive ingredients: Tablet core: calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone, povidone, and magnesium stearate. The tablet film-coat contains the following inactive ingredients: hypromellose 2910, macrogol 300, and titanium dioxide E171.
Vandetanib is chemically described as N-(4-bromo-2-fluorophenyl)-6-methoxy-7-[(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl) methoxy]quinazolin-4-amine.
The structural and molecular formulas are:
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C22H24BrFN4O2
Vandetanib has a molecular weight of 475.36. Vandetanib exhibits pH-dependent solubility, with increased solubility at lower pH. Vandetanib is practically insoluble in water with a value of 0.008 mg/mL at 25°C (77°F ).
12. Clinical Pharmacology
12.1. Mechanism of Action
Vandetanib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In vitro studies have shown that vandetanib inhibits the activity of tyrosine kinases including members of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) receptors, rearranged during transfection (RET), protein tyrosine kinase 6 (BRK), TIE2, members of the EPH receptors kinase family, and members of the Src family of tyrosine kinases. Vandetanib inhibits endothelial cell migration, proliferation, survival and new blood vessel formation in in vitro models of angiogenesis. Vandetanib inhibits EGFR-dependent cell survival in vitro. In addition, vandetanib inhibits epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated receptor tyrosine kinase phosphorylation in tumor cells and endothelial cells and VEGF-stimulated tyrosine kinase phosphorylation in endothelial cells.
In vivo vandetanib administration reduced tumor cell-induced angiogenesis, tumor vessel permeability, and inhibited tumor growth and metastasis in mouse models of cancer.
There is no evidence of a relationship between RET mutations and efficacy with vandetanib.
12.3. Pharmacokinetics
A population pharmacokinetic analysis of vandetanib was conducted in 231 patients with MTC following oral administration of 300 mg daily doses. The pharmacokinetics of vandetanib at the 300 mg dose in MTC patients are characterized by a mean clearance of approximately 13.2 L/h, a mean volume of distribution of approximately 7450 L, and a median plasma half-life of 19 days.
Absorption
Following oral administration of vandetanib, absorption is slow with peak plasma concentrations typically achieved at a median of 6 hours, range 4-10 hours, after dosing. Vandetanib accumulates approximately 8-fold on multiple dosing with steady state achieved from approximately 3 months.
Exposure to vandetanib is unaffected by food.
Distribution
Vandetanib binds to human serum albumin and α1-acid-glycoprotein with in vitro protein binding being approximately 90%. In ex vivo plasma samples from colorectal cancer patients at steady state exposure after 300 mg once daily, the mean percentage protein binding was 93.7% (range 92.2 to 95.7%).
Metabolism
Following oral dosing of 14C-vandetanib, unchanged vandentanib and metabolites vandetanib N-oxide and N-desmethyl vandetanib were detected in plasma, urine and feces. A glucuronide conjugate was seen as a minor metabolite in excreta only. N-desmethyl-vandetanib is primarily produced by CYP3A4 and vandetanib-N-oxide by flavin–containing monooxygenase enzymes FMO1 and FMO3. N-desmethyl-vandetanib and vandetanib-N-oxide circulate at concentrations of approximately 7-17.1% and 1.4-2.2%, respectively, of those of vandetanib.
Excretion
Within a 21-day collection period after a single dose of 14C-vandetanib, approximately 69% was recovered with 44% in feces and 25% in urine. Excretion of the dose was slow and further excretion beyond 21 days would be expected based on the plasma half-life.
Vandetanib was not a substrate of hOCT2 expressed in HEK293 cells. Vandetanib inhibits the uptake of the selective OCT2 marker substrate 14C-creatinine by HEK-OCT2 cells, with a mean IC50 of approximately 2.1 μg/mL. This is higher than vandetanib plasma concentrations (approximately 0.81 μg/mL) observed after multiple dosing at 300 mg. Inhibition of renal excretion of creatinine by vandetanib provides an explanation for increases in plasma creatinine seen in human subjects receiving vandetanib.
Special Populations
Effects of Age and Gender
In a population pharmacokinetic evaluation in cancer patients, no relationship was apparent between oral clearance and patient age or gender.
Ethnicity
Based on a cross-study comparison in a limited number of patients, Japanese (N=3) and Chinese (N=7) patients had on average exposures that were higher than Caucasian (N=7) patients receiving the same dose.
Pediatric
The pharmacokinetics of vandetanib have not been evaluated in pediatric patients.
12.4 QT Prolongation
In 231 medullary thyroid cancer patients randomized to receive vandetanib 300 mg once daily in the phase 3 clinical trial, vandetanib was associated with sustained plasma concentration-dependent QT prolongation. Based on the exposure-response relationship, the mean (90% CI) QTcF change from baseline (ΔQTcF) was 35 (33-36) ms for the 300-mg dose. The ΔQTcF remained above 30 ms for the duration of the trial (up to 2 years). In addition, 36% of patients experienced greater than 60 ms increase in ΔQTcF and 4.3% of patients had QTcF greater than 500 ms. Cases of Torsades de pointes and sudden death have been reported [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.11)].
13. Nonclinical Toxicology
13.1. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Carcinogenicity studies have not been conducted with vandetanib.
Vandetanib was not mutagenic in vitro in the bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) assay and was not clastogenic in both the in vitro cytogenetic assay using human lymphocytes or in the in vivo rat micronucleus assay.
Based on nonclinical findings, male and female fertility may be impaired by treatment with vandetanib. In a fertility study in male rats, vandetanib had no effect on copulation or fertility rate when undosed females were mated with males administered 1, 5, or 20 mg/kg/day of vandetanib (approximately 0.03, 0.22, or 0.40 times, respectively, the AUC in patients with cancer at the recommended human dose of 300 mg/day). There was a slight decrease in the number of live embryos at 20 mg/kg/day and an increase in preimplantation loss at >5 mg/kg/day. In a female fertility study, there was a trend towards increased estrus cycle irregularity, a slight reduction in pregnancy incidence and an increase in implantation loss. In a repeat-dose toxicity study in rats, there was a decrease in the number of corpora lutea in the ovaries of rats administered 75 mg/kg/day vandetanib (approximately 1.8 times the AUC in patients with cancer at the recommended human dose) for 1 month.
13.2. Animal Pharmacology and/or Toxicology
In an animal model of wound-healing, mice dosed with vandetanib had reduced skin-breaking strength compared with controls. This suggests that vandetanib slows but does not prevent wound healing. The appropriate interval between discontinuation of vandetanib and subsequent elective surgery required to avoid the risks of impaired wound healing has not been determined.
Nodular masses were observed in a 6-month toxicology study in rats during treatment with ≥5 mg/kg/day vandetanib (approximately 0.22 or 0.40 times, respectively, the AUC in patients with cancer at the recommended human dose of 300 mg/day). Masses were palpable during clinical assessments as early as week 13, were observed in multiple organs, and were associated with hemorrhagic or inflammatory findings.
14. Clinical Studies
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study randomized patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer to vandetanib 300 mg (n=231) versus Placebo (n=100).
The primary objective was demonstration of improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) with vandetanib compared to placebo. Other endpoints included evaluation of overall survival and overall objective response rate (ORR). Centralized, independent blinded review of the imaging data was used in the assessment of PFS and ORR. Upon objective disease progression based on the investigator’s assessment, patients were discontinued from blinded study treatment and given the option to receive open-label vandetanib. Nineteen percent (44/231) of the patients initially randomized to vandetanib opted to receive open-label vandetanib after disease progression, and 58% (58/100) of the patients initially randomized to placebo opted to receive open-label vandetanib after disease progression.
The result of the PFS analysis, based on the central review RECIST assessment, showed a statistically significant improvement in PFS for patients randomized to vandetanib (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 0.35; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.24-0.53; p<0.0001). Analyses in the subgroups of patients who were symptomatic or had progressed within 6 months prior to their enrollment showed similar PFS results (HR = 0.31 95% CI: 0.19, 0.53 for symptomatic patients; HR = 0.41 95% CI: 0.25, 0.66 for patients who had progressed within 6 months prior to enrollment).
At the time of the primary analysis of PFS, 15% of the patients had died and there was no significant difference in overall survival between the two treatment groups. The overall objective response rate (ORR) for patients randomized to vandetanib was 44% compared to 1% for patients randomized to placebo. All objective responses were partial responses.
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Figure 1- Progression Free Survival
Table 3: Summary of key efficacy findings Progression-Free Survival (PFS) N N = Number of events/number of randomized patients Median PFS (95% CI) HR HR= Hazard Ratio, Cox Proportional Hazards Model 95% CI p-value Logrank test
Vandetanib 300 mg
59/231 (26%)
Not reached (22.6 months, NENE = non-estimatable )
0.35
0.24, 0.53
<0.0001
Placebo
41/100
16.4 Months (8.3, 19.7)
15. References
NIOSH Alert: Preventing occupational exposures to antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. 2004. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004 165. OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_vi/otm_vi_2.html American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP Guidelines on Handling Hazardous Drugs: Am J Health-Syst Pharm. (2006) 63:1172-1193. Polovich, M., White, J. M., & Kelleher, L. O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology Nursing Society.
16. How Supplied/storage And Handling
100 mg Tablets Available in bottles containing 30 tablets (NDC 0310–7810–30).
300 mg Tablets Available in bottles containing 30 tablets (NDC 0310–7830–30).
16.1. Storage and Handling
Vandetanib tablets should be stored at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15oC – 30oC (59oF – 86oF) [See USP controlled room temperature].
Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer drugs should be considered. Several guidelines on this subject have been published1-4. Vandetanib tablets should not be crushed. Direct contact of crushed tablets with the skin or mucous membranes should be avoided. If such contact occurs, wash thoroughly as outlined in the references. Personnel should avoid exposure to crushed tablets.
17. Patient Counseling Information
17.1 QT Interval
Vandetanib can prolong the QT interval in a concentration-dependent manner. Torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia and sudden death have been reported in patients administered vandetanib. Patients should be advised that their electrolytes and the electrical activity of their heartbeat (via an ECG) should be monitored regularly during treatment with vandetanib.
17.2 Rash
Patients taking vandetanib should be told they may be more susceptible to sunburn and to use appropriate sun protection (e.g., sunscreen and/or clothing) while taking vandetanib and for at least 4 months after drug discontinuation. Patients should consult their physician promptly if they develop a skin rash.
17.3 Interstitial lung disease
Patients should be told to contact their physician promptly if they develop sudden onset or worsening of breathlessness, persistent cough or fever.
17.4 Diarrhea
Patients should be informed that they may experience diarrhea while taking vandetanib. Patients should also be advised to use standard anti-diarrheal medications and to seek medical attention if their diarrhea becomes persistent or severe. Patients with diarrhea should contact their physician to have their electrolytes monitored.
17.5 Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome
Patients should be told to contact their physician promptly if they experience seizures, headaches, visual disturbances, confusion or difficulty thinking.
17.6 Pregnancy and Nursing
Patients of childbearing potential must be told to use effective contraception during therapy and for at least four months following their last dose of vandetanib.
Breast-feeding mothers are advised to discontinue nursing while receiving vandetanib therapy.
17.7 Drug Handling
Vandetanib tablets should not be crushed. Direct contact of crushed tablets with the skin or mucous membranes should be avoided.
17.8 Medication Guide
MEDICATION GUIDE
Vandetanib [van-DEH-tuh-nib]
Tablets
Read this Medication Guide before you start taking vandetanib and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about vandetanib?
Vandetanib can cause a change in the electrical activity of your heart called QT prolongation, which can cause irregular heartbeats and that may lead to death. You should not take vandetanib if you have had a condition called long QT syndrome since birth.
Your healthcare provider should perform tests to check the levels of your blood potassium, calcium, magnesium, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) as well as the electrical activity of your heart with a test called an electrocardiogram (ECG). You should have these tests:
Before starting vandetanib Regularly during vandetanib treatment: 2 to 4 weeks after starting vandetanib 8 to 12 weeks after starting vandetanib Every 3 months thereafter If your healthcare provider changes your dose of vandetanib If you start taking medicine that causes QT prolongation As instructed by your healthcare provider
Your healthcare provider may stop your vandetanib treatment for a while and restart you at a lower dose if you have QT prolongation.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you feel faint, light-headed, or feel your heart beating irregularly while taking vandetanib. These may be symptoms related to QT prolongation.
What is vandetanib?
Vandetanib is a prescription medicine used to treat medullary thyroid cancer that cannot be removed by surgery or that has spread to other parts of the body. It takes a long time to get rid of vandetanib from your body and you may be at risk for side effects related to vandetanib after you have stopped your treatment.
It is not known if vandetanib is safe and effective in children.
Who should not take vandetanib?
Do not take vandetanib if you have had QT prolongation.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking vandetanib?
Before you take vandetanib, tell your healthcare provider if you:
have any heart problems, including a condition called congenital long QT syndrome. have an irregular heartbeat take or have stopped taking a medicine that causes QT prolongation have low blood levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium have high blood levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone have high blood pressure have skin problems have a history of breathing problems have a recent history of coughing up blood or bleeding have diarrhea have liver problems have kidney problems have seizures or are being treated for seizures are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Vandetanib can cause harm to your unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
If you are able to become pregnant, you should use effective birth control during your treatment with vandetanib and for at least 4 months after your last dose of vandetanib. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods to prevent pregnancy while you are taking vandetanib. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if vandetanib passes into your breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take vandetanib or breastfeed. You should not do both.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Vandetanib and other medicines may affect each other causing side effects.
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take:
St. John’s Wort. You should not take St. John’s Wort while taking vandetanib. certain medicines that can affect how your liver breaks down medicine a medicine for your heart
Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one uled above.
Do not take other medicines while taking vandetanib until you have talked with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a ul of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I take vandetanib?
Take vandetanib exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Do not change your dose or stop taking vandetanib unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Vandetanib may be taken with or without food. Swallow vandetanib tablets whole with water. Do not crush or chew vandetanib tablets. If vandetanib tablets are accidentally crushed, contact with skin should be avoided. If contact occurs, wash affected areas well with water. If you cannot swallow vandetanib tablets whole:
place your dose of vandetanib in a glass that contains 2 ounces of noncarbonated water (no other liquids should be used). stir the vandetanib tablet(s) and water mixture for about 10 minutes or until the tablet(s) are in very small pieces (the tablets will not completely dissolve). swallow vandetanib and water mixture right away. if any vandetanib and water mixture remains in the glass, mix with an additional 4 ounces of noncarbonated water and swallow the mixture to make sure that you take your full dose of vandetanib. If you miss a dose and your next dose is in:
less than 12 hours, take your next dose at the normal time. Do not make up for the missed dose. 12 hours or more, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Take the next dose at the normal time.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you take too much vandetanib.
During treatment with vandetanib, your healthcare provider should check your blood and heart for side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about vandetanib?” Your healthcare provider should check your blood pressure regularly during your treatment with vandetanib.
What should I avoid while taking vandetanib?
Limit exposure to the sun. Vandetanib can make your skin sensitive to the sun. While taking vandetanib and for 4 months after stopping your vandetanib treatment, use sun block and wear clothes that cover your skin, including your head, arms and legs when you go outdoors. Use caution before driving or using machinery. Keep in mind vandetanib may make you feel tired, weak, or cause blurred vision.
What are the possible side effects of vandetanib?
Vandetanib may cause serious side effects, including:
See “What is the most important information I should know about vandetanib?” Serious skin reactions. Vandetanib can cause a serious skin reaction, called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or other serious skin reactions that may affect any part of your body. These serious skin reactions may be life threatening and you may need to be treated in a hospital. Call your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of these symptoms. Skin rash or acne Dry skin Itching Bulers on your skin Bulers or sores in your mouth Peeling of your skin Fever Muscle or joint aches Redness or swelling of your face, hands, or soles of your feet Breathing problems (interstitial lung disease). Vandetanib may cause a breathing problem called interstitial lung disease that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience sudden or worsening shortness of breath or cough. Stroke. Strokes have been reported in some people who have taken vandetanib and in some cases have caused death. Stop taking vandetanib and call your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of a stroke which may include:
numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination sudden, severe headache Bleeding. Bleeding can happen during your treatment with vandetanib. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have severe bleeding while you are taking vandetanib. Heart failure. Vandetanib can cause heart failure that can lead to death. You may have to stop taking vandetanib if you have heart failure. Heart failure may not be reversible after stopping vandetanib. Your healthcare provider should monitor you for signs and symptoms of heart failure. Diarrhea. Diarrhea is often a symptom of medullary thyroid cancer. Vandetanib can also cause diarrhea or make diarrhea worse. Your healthcare provider should check your blood levels to monitor your electrolytes more frequently if you have diarrhea. Thyroid hormones. You can have changes in your thyroid hormone when taking vandetanib. Your healthcare provider should monitor your thyroid hormone levels while taking vandetanib. High blood pressure (hypertension). If you develop high blood pressure or your high blood pressure gets worse, your healthcare provider may lower your dose of vandetanib or tell you to stop taking vandetanib until your blood pressure is under control. Your healthcare provider may prescribe another medicine to control your high blood pressure. Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS). A condition called reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome can happen while taking vandetanib. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have: headaches seizures confusion changes in vision problems thinking
The most common side effects of vandetanib include:
diarrhea rash acne nausea high blood pressure headache feeling tired loss of appetite stomach (abdominal) pain
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
These are not all the possible side effects of vandetanib. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store vandetanib?
Store vandetanib tablets at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Safely throw away medicine that is out of date or that you no longer need. Ask your pharmacist how to safely throw away vandetanib tablets.
Keep vandetanib and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about vandetanib.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those uled in a Medication Guide. Do not use vandetanib for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give vandetanib to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.
This Medication Guide summarizes important information about vandetanib. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about vandetanib that is written for health professionals.
For more information, go to www.vandetanib.com or call 1-800-236-9933.
What are the ingredients in vandetanib?
Active ingredient: vandetanib
Inactive ingredients:
Tablet core: calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone, povidone, and magnesium stearate
Tablet coating:hypromellose 2910, macrogol 300, and titanium dioxide E171
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Distirbuted by:
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP
Wilmington, DE 19850
Issued 04-06–2011
©AstraZeneca 2011
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