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Vandetanib: Drug information

Vandetanib: Drug information
(For additional information see "Vandetanib: Patient drug information")

For abbreviations, symbols, and age group definitions used in Lexicomp (show table)
ALERT: US Boxed 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. Do not use vandetanib in patients with hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome. Correct hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and/or hypomagnesemia prior to vandetanib administration. Monitor electrolytes periodically. Avoid drugs known to prolong the QT interval. Only health care providers and pharmacies certified with the restricted distribution program are able to prescribe and dispense vandetanib.

Brand Names: US
  • Caprelsa
Brand Names: Canada
  • Caprelsa
Pharmacologic Category
  • Antineoplastic Agent, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Inhibitor;
  • Antineoplastic Agent, Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor;
  • Antineoplastic Agent, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitor
Dosing: Adult

Note: Do not initiate treatment unless QTcF ≤450 msec. To reduce the risk of QT prolongation, maintain serum calcium and magnesium within normal limits and maintain serum potassium ≥4 mEq/L. Temporarily withhold vandetanib for at least 1 month prior to elective surgery; do not administer vandetanib for at least 2 weeks following major surgery and until adequate wound healing. Do not administer in patients with a recent history of hemoptysis with ≥2.5 mL of red blood.

Thyroid cancer, medullary, locally advanced or metastatic

Thyroid cancer, medullary, locally advanced or metastatic: Oral: 300 mg once daily, continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (Wells 2012).

Missed dose: Do not administer a missed dose within 12 hours of the next dose.

Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.

Dosing: Kidney Impairment: Adult

Kidney impairment prior to treatment initiation:

CrCl ≥50 mL/minute: No dosage adjustment necessary.

CrCl ≥30 to <50 mL/minute: Reduce initial dose to 200 mg once daily; closely monitor QT interval.

CrCl <30 mL/minute: Use is not recommended.

End-stage renal disease requiring dialysis: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (has not been studied).

Kidney toxicity during treatment:

Kidney failure: Withhold treatment, reduce the dose, or permanently discontinue vandetanib based on severity.

Dosing: Hepatic Impairment: Adult

Mild impairment (Child-Pugh class A): There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Moderate and severe impairment (Child-Pugh class B or C): Use is not recommended.

Dosing: Older Adult

Refer to adult dosing.

Dosing: Adjustment for Toxicity: Adult

Dosage reduction: Reduce from 300 mg once daily to 200 mg once daily, further reduce if needed to 100 mg once daily. Adverse reactions (including prolonged QT interval) may not resolve fully until ~3 plasma half-lives; monitor appropriately.

Cardiac: QTcF >500 msec: Withhold dose until QTcF returns to <450 msec, then resume at a reduced dose.

Dermatologic toxicity (severe): Permanently discontinue for severe dermatologic toxicity and refer to immediate medical evaluation; may require systemic corticosteroid therapy.

Acneiform rash management: Grade 1 acneiform rash may be managed with topical corticosteroids and topical antibiotics; grade 2 may be managed with topical corticosteroids and systemic (oral) antibiotics; grade 3 or intolerable grade 2 acneiform rash may be managed with treatment interruption, topical corticosteroids, systemic (oral) antibiotics, and systemic corticosteroids (Lacouture 2014).

Diarrhea (severe): Withhold treatment until resolution. Upon improvement, resume with the dose reduced. Closely monitor electrolytes and ECGs to detect QT prolongation resulting from dehydration.

Heart failure: Consider discontinuing vandetanib.

Hemorrhage (severe): Discontinue vandetanib.

Hypertension: Initiate or adjust antihypertensive therapy as needed; may require vandetanib dosage adjustment or treatment interruption; discontinue permanently if BP cannot be adequately controlled.

Hypothyroidism (signs/symptoms): Assess thyroid hormone levels and adjust thyroid replacement therapy as indicated.

Interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis: Interrupt therapy for acute or worsening pulmonary symptoms. Discontinue if ILD diagnosis is confirmed.

Ischemic cerebrovascular events (severe): Discontinue vandetanib (safety of resuming treatment after resolution of an ischemic event has not been studied).

Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome: Discontinue vandetanib.

Other toxicity, grade 3 or higher: Withhold vandetanib until toxicity resolves or improves to grade 1, then resume at a reduced dose.

Recurrent toxicity: Withhold vandetanib until symptom improvement to ≤ grade 1 toxicity, then if continued treatment is warranted, reduce dose to 100 mg once daily.

Dosage Forms: US

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Tablet, Oral:

Caprelsa: 100 mg, 300 mg

Generic Equivalent Available: US

No

Dosage Forms: Canada

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Tablet, Oral:

Caprelsa: 100 mg, 300 mg

Prescribing and Access Restrictions

In Canada, vandetanib is available only through the CAPRELSA Restricted Distribution Program. Prescribers and pharmacies must be certified with the program to prescribe or dispense vandetanib. Further information may be obtained at 1-800-589-6215 or visit www.caprelsa.ca/rdp

Medication Guide and/or Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)

An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/022405s019lbl.pdf#page=20, must be dispensed with this medication.

Administration: Adult

Oral: May administer with or without food. Do not crush tablet. If unable to swallow tablet whole or if NG or gastrostomy tube administration is necessary, disperse tablet(s) in 2 ounces of water (noncarbonated only) and stir for 10 minutes to disperse (will not dissolve completely) and administer immediately. Rinse residue in glass with additional 4 ounces of water (noncarbonated only) and administer.

Hazardous Drugs Handling Considerations

Hazardous agent (NIOSH 2016 [group 1]).

Use appropriate precautions for receiving, handling, storage, preparation, dispensing, transporting, administration, and disposal. Follow NIOSH and USP 800 recommendations and institution-specific policies/procedures for appropriate containment strategy (NIOSH 2016; USP-NF 2020).

Use: Labeled Indications

Thyroid cancer, medullary (locally advanced or metastatic): Treatment of metastatic or unresectable locally-advanced medullary thyroid cancer (symptomatic or progressive).

Limitation of use: Use in indolent, asymptomatic, or slowly progressing disease only after careful considerations of vandetanib treatment-related risks.

Medication Safety Issues
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:

Vandetanib may be confused with axitinib, cabozantinib, dasatinib, erlotinib, gefitinib, imatinib, lapatinib, lenvatinib, nilotinib, nintedanib, PAZOPanib, SORAfenib, SUNItinib, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vismodegib

High alert medication:

This medication is in a class the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes among its list of drug classes which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error.

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified. Adverse reactions reported in adults.

>10%:

Cardiovascular: Hypertension (≤33%), hypertensive crisis (≤33%), prolonged QT interval on ECG (14%)

Dermatologic: Acne vulgaris (≤35%), acneiform eruption (≤35%), pruritus (11%), skin photosensitivity (13%), skin rash (53%), xeroderma (15%)

Endocrine & metabolic: Hypocalcemia (11% to 57%), hypoglycemia (24%)

Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain (21%), colitis (≤57%), decreased appetite (21%), diarrhea (≤57%; grades 3/4: 11%), dyspepsia (11%), nausea (33%; grades 3/4: 1%), vomiting (15%; grades 3/4: 1%)

Hematologic & oncologic: Hemorrhage (14%; including major hemorrhage, life-threatening)

Hepatic: Increased serum alanine aminotransferase (51%)

Nervous system: Fatigue (24%), headache (26%)

Ophthalmic: Corneal changes (13%)

Renal: Increased serum creatinine (16%)

Respiratory: Upper respiratory tract infection (23%)

1% to 10%:

Dermatologic: Alopecia (8%), nail disease (9%)

Endocrine & metabolic: Hypomagnesemia (7%), hypothyroidism (6%)

Gastrointestinal: Dysgeusia (8%), xerostomia (9%)

Genitourinary: Proteinuria (10%)

Hematologic & oncologic: Neutropenia (10%; grades 3/4: <1%), thrombocytopenia (9%)

Nervous system: Cerebral ischemia (1%), depression (10%)

Neuromuscular & skeletal: Muscle spasm (6%)

Ophthalmic: Blurred vision (9%)

<1%:

Cardiovascular: Heart failure

Gastrointestinal: Intestinal perforation, pancreatitis

Frequency not defined:

Cardiovascular: Torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia

Dermatologic: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis

Nervous system: Asthenia, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome

Renal: Renal failure syndrome

Respiratory: Interstitial pulmonary disease, pneumonitis

Miscellaneous: Fever

Postmarketing:

Cardiovascular: Vascular disease (arterial aneurysms [including aortic aneurysm], arterial dissections [including aortic dissection], and arterial rupture [including aortic rupture])

Miscellaneous: Wound healing impairment

Contraindications

Congenital long QT syndrome

Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in the US labeling): Known hypersensitivity to vandetanib or any component of the formulation; persistent Fridericia-corrected QT interval (QTcF) ≥500 msec; uncorrected hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or hypocalcemia; uncontrolled hypertension

Warnings/Precautions

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• Dermatologic toxicity: Serious and sometimes fatal skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported with vandetanib. Photosensitivity reactions may occur during vandetanib treatment and for up to 4 months after discontinuation; effective sunscreen and protective clothing are recommended.

• GI toxicity: Diarrhea may commonly occur; may be grade 3 or higher. Diarrhea may cause electrolyte imbalance (monitor electrolytes and ECGs closely and more frequently to detect QT prolongation resulting from dehydration).

• Heart failure: Heart failure has been reported (sometimes fatal); monitor for signs and symptoms of heart failure. Heart failure may not be reversible upon discontinuation.

• Hemorrhage: Serious and sometimes fatal hemorrhagic events have been reported with vandetanib. Do not administer in patients with a recent history of hemoptysis with ≥2.5 mL of red blood.

• Hypertension: Hypertension and hypertensive crisis have been observed with vandetanib.

• Hypothyroidism: Increased doses of thyroid replacement therapy have been required in patients receiving vandetanib with prior thyroidectomy.

• Ischemic events: Ischemic cerebrovascular events (some fatal) have been observed with vandetanib.

• Kidney toxicity: Kidney failure has occurred with vandetanib.

• Pulmonary toxicity: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pneumonitis (including fatalities) has been reported with vandetanib. Patients should be advised to report any new or worsening respiratory symptoms; ILD should be suspected with nonspecific respiratory symptoms such as hypoxia, pleural effusion, cough, or dyspnea.

• QT prolongation/sudden death: Vandetanib may prolong the QT interval in a concentration dependent manner; torsade de pointes and sudden death have been reported. Do not use in patients with hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or long QT syndrome. Correct electrolyte imbalance (hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and/or hypomagnesemia) prior to initiating therapy. Avoid the use of QT-prolonging agents. Vandetanib has a long half-life (19 days), therefore, adverse reactions (including QT prolongation) may resolve slowly; monitor appropriately. Ventricular tachycardia has also been reported. Do not initiate in patients with QTcF >450 msec. Do not use vandetanib in patients with a history of torsade 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. To reduce the risk of QT prolongation, maintain serum calcium and magnesium within normal limits and maintain serum potassium ≥4 mEq/L.

• Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome: Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS), a syndrome of subcortical vasogenic edema (diagnosed by MRI), has been observed with vandetanib. Symptoms of RPLS include altered mental function, confusion, headache, seizure, or visual disturbances; generally associated with hypertension.

• Wound healing complications: Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors are associated with impaired wound healing; therefore, vandetanib may affect wound healing. The safety of resuming vandetanib treatment after resolution of wound healing complications has not been established.

Other warnings/precautions:

• REMS program: Vandetanib is available only through a restricted distribution program (Caprelsa REMS); prescribers and pharmacies must be certified with the restricted distribution program to prescribe and dispense vandetanib.

Metabolism/Transport Effects

Substrate of CYP3A4 (major); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential; Inhibits OCT2

Drug Interactions

Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the Lexicomp drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.

Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic): Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid combination

Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical): Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Amiodarone: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Amiodarone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Amisulpride (Oral): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Amisulpride (Oral). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even greater risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Androgens: Hypertension-Associated Agents may enhance the hypertensive effect of Androgens. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Artesunate: Vandetanib may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Artesunate. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Azithromycin (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Azithromycin (Systemic). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Bisphosphonate Derivatives: Angiogenesis Inhibitors (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Bisphosphonate Derivatives. Specifically, the risk for osteonecrosis of the jaw may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Carbetocin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Chloroquine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Chloroquine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Citalopram: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Citalopram. Risk X: Avoid combination

Clarithromycin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Clarithromycin. Risk X: Avoid combination

Clofarabine: OCT2 Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Clofarabine. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Clofazimine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Clofazimine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

ClomiPRAMINE: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CloZAPine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of CloZAPine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Vandetanib. CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate) may decrease the serum concentration of Vandetanib. Risk C: Monitor therapy

CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Vandetanib. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vandetanib. Risk X: Avoid combination

Dabrafenib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Vandetanib. Dabrafenib may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Vandetanib. Dabrafenib may decrease the serum concentration of Vandetanib. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias, and changes in vandetanib efficacy or toxicity. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Dalfampridine: OCT2 Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Dalfampridine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Carefully weigh the risk of seizures against the benefit of combining OCT2 inhibitors with dalfampridine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Dasatinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dasatinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Digoxin: Vandetanib may increase the serum concentration of Digoxin. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Dofetilide: MATE1/2-K Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Dofetilide. Risk X: Avoid combination

Domperidone: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Domperidone. Risk X: Avoid combination

Doxepin-Containing Products: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Doxepin-Containing Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Dronedarone: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Droperidol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Droperidol. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Encorafenib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Entrectinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid combination

Escitalopram: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Escitalopram. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Etelcalcetide: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Fexinidazole: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid combination

Fingolimod: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias (including TdP) with a continuous overnight ECG when fingolimod is combined with QT prolonging drugs. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Flecainide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Flecainide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Fluorouracil Products: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Fluorouracil Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Flupentixol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Flupentixol. Risk X: Avoid combination

Gadobenate Dimeglumine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Gadobenate Dimeglumine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Gemifloxacin: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Gemifloxacin. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Gilteritinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If use is necessary, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Halofantrine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Halofantrine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Haloperidol: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Haloperidol. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

HydrOXYzine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Imipramine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Inotuzumab Ozogamicin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Inotuzumab Ozogamicin. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Levofloxacin-Containing Products (Systemic): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Levofloxacin-Containing Products (Systemic). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Levoketoconazole: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Levoketoconazole. Risk X: Avoid combination

Lofexidine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Lofexidine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Meglumine Antimoniate: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

MetFORMIN: MATE1/2-K Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of MetFORMIN. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Methadone: QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Methadone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Methoxsalen (Systemic): Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Methoxsalen (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Midostaurin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Midostaurin. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Moxifloxacin (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Moxifloxacin (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid combination

Nilotinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Nilotinib. Risk X: Avoid combination

OLANZapine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of OLANZapine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Ondansetron: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ondansetron. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Osimertinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Osimertinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Oxytocin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Pacritinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pacritinib. Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor therapy

PAZOPanib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of PAZOPanib. Risk X: Avoid combination

Pentamidine (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pentamidine (Systemic). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Pilsicainide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pilsicainide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Pimozide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk X: Avoid combination

Piperaquine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Piperaquine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Porfimer: Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Porfimer. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Probucol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Probucol. Risk X: Avoid combination

Propafenone: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Propofol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Agents (Indeterminate Risk - Avoid): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor therapy

QT-prolonging Agents (Indeterminate Risk - Caution): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor therapy

QT-prolonging Class IA Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Class IA Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Class III Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Class III Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of other QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid combination

QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk). QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk) may increase the serum concentration of QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Highest Risk): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk). QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk) may increase the serum concentration of QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QUEtiapine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QUEtiapine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Ribociclib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ribociclib. Risk X: Avoid combination

RisperiDONE: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the CNS depressant effect of RisperiDONE. QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of RisperiDONE. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Sertindole: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid combination

Solriamfetol: May enhance the hypertensive effect of Hypertension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Sparfloxacin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Sparfloxacin. Risk X: Avoid combination

St John's Wort: May decrease the serum concentration of Vandetanib. Risk X: Avoid combination

SUNItinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of SUNItinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Thioridazine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Toremifene: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Toremifene. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Vemurafenib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Vemurafenib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Verteporfin: Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Verteporfin. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Reproductive Considerations

Pregnancy status should be evaluated prior to vandetanib therapy. Patients who could become pregnant should be advised to avoid pregnancy and use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last vandetanib dose.

Pregnancy Considerations

Based on the mechanism of action and data from animal reproduction studies, in utero exposure to vandetanib may cause fetal harm.

Information related to the use of vandetanib in pregnant patients is limited (Thomas 2018).

Breastfeeding Considerations

It is not known if vandetanib is present in human breast milk.

Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, the manufacturer does not recommend breastfeeding during therapy or for 4 months after the last vandetanib dose.

Monitoring Parameters

Monitor electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, potassium), TSH, and ECG (QT interval) at baseline, at 2 to 4 weeks, at 8 to 12 weeks, and every 3 months thereafter (more frequently if clinically indicated; monitor ECG more frequently if concomitant use with QT-prolonging agents cannot be avoided); also monitor QT interval at same frequency for dose reduction due to QT interval or treatment delays >2 weeks (monitor electrolytes and ECG more frequently if diarrhea occurs). Monitor renal function, hepatic function, and BP. Evaluate pregnancy status prior to therapy (in patients who could become pregnant). Monitor for signs and symptoms of diarrhea, heart failure, hemorrhage, hypothyroidism, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, pulmonary toxicity, skin toxicities, and wound healing complications. Monitor adherence.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening and management provisional clinical opinion (ASCO [Hwang 2020]) recommends HBV screening with hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B core antibody, total Ig or IgG, and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen prior to beginning (or at the beginning of) systemic anticancer therapy; do not delay treatment for screening/results. Detection of chronic or past HBV infection requires a risk assessment to determine antiviral prophylaxis requirements, monitoring, and follow-up.

Mechanism of Action

Vandetanib is a multikinase inhibitor; it inhibits tyrosine kinases including epidermal growth factor reception (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), rearranged during transfection (RET), protein tyrosine kinase 6 (BRK), TIE2, EPH kinase receptors and SRC kinase receptors, selectively blocking intracellular signaling, angiogenesis and cellular proliferation

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Slow

Protein binding: ~90%; to albumin and alpha 1-acid-glycoprotein

Distribution: Vd: ~7450 L

Metabolism: Hepatic, via CYP3A4 to N-desmethyl vandetanib and via flavin-containing monooxygenase enzymes to vandetanib-N-oxide

Bioavailability: Not affected by food

Half-life, elimination: 19 days

Time to peak: 6 hours (range: 4 to 10 hours)

Excretion: Feces (~44%); urine (~25%)

Pharmacokinetics: Additional Considerations

Altered kidney function: In subjects with moderate (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/minute) and severe (CrCl <30 mL/minute) renal impairment, the average AUC of vandetanib increased by 39% and 41%, respectively.

Race/ethnicity: Patients of Japanese and Chinese ethnicity had, on average, exposures that were higher than in White patients receiving the same dose (based on limited data).

Pricing: US

Tablets (Caprelsa Oral)

100 mg (per each): $322.46

300 mg (per each): $644.92

Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.

Brand Names: International
  • Caprelsa (AT, AU, BB, BE, BR, CH, CR, CY, CZ, DE, DK, DO, EE, ES, FR, GB, GT, HK, HN, HR, HU, IE, IL, IS, JP, KR, LT, LU, MT, MX, NI, NL, NO, PA, PL, PT, RO, SE, SI, SK, SV, TW)


For country code abbreviations (show table)
  1. <800> Hazardous Drugs—Handling in Healthcare Settings. United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary (USP 43-NF 38). Rockville, MD: United States Pharmacopeia Convention; 2020:74-92.
  2. Caprelsa (vandetanib) [prescribing information]. Cambridge, MA: Genzyme Corporation; March 2022.
  3. Caprelsa (vandetanib) [product monograph]. Mississauga, Ontario, Canada: Sanofi Genzyme; April 2022.
  4. Hwang JP, Feld JJ, Hammond SP, et al. Hepatitis B virus screening and management for patients with cancer prior to therapy: ASCO provisional clinical opinion update. J Clin Oncol. 2020;38(31):3698-3715. doi:10.1200/JCO.20.01757 [PubMed 32716741]
  5. Lacouture ME, Ciccolini K, Kloos RT, et al. Overview and management of dermatologic events associated with targeted therapies for medullary thyroid cancer. Thyroid. 2014;24(9):1329-1340. [PubMed 24902006]
  6. Thomas N, Glod J, Derse-Anthony C, et al. Pregnancy on vandetanib in metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2018;88(5):754-756. doi: 10.1111/cen.13577. [PubMed 29457255]
  7. US Department of Health and Human Services; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH list of antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings 2016. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/antineoplastic/pdf/hazardous-drugs-list_2016-161.pdf. Updated September 2016. Accessed October 5, 2016.
  8. Wells SA Jr, Robinson BG, Gagel RF, et al. Vandetanib in patients with locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer: a randomized, double-blind phase III trial. J Clin Oncol. 2012;30(2):134-141. [PubMed 22025146]
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