Product Introduction:
Lenvakast 4mg is a prescription medication developed for the treatment of certain advanced-stage cancers. It belongs to a class of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and is effective in slowing or halting the progression of tumors. It is most commonly prescribed for patients with thyroid cancer refractory to radioactive iodine therapy, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, and advanced renal cell carcinoma.
Uses:
Lenvakast 4mg is used in the treatment of:
-
Differentiated Thyroid Cancer (DTC) – in cases unresponsive to radioactive iodine.
-
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) – as a first-line therapy.
-
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) – in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
-
Endometrial Cancer – especially in cases where other treatments have failed.
-
Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma – selectively under supervision.
-
Soft Tissue Sarcomas and solid tumors (under clinical guidance or off-label).
Storage Instructions:
-
Store at room temperature (20–25°C).
-
Keep away from moisture, direct sunlight, and heat.
-
Store in the original packaging until use.
-
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Lenvatinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor that works by blocking several proteins (kinases) that are involved in cancer cell division, growth, and angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels that supply tumors). It targets VEGFR, FGFR, PDGFRα, RET, and KIT pathways, effectively starving the tumor of nutrients and oxygen.
Side Effects:
Common side effects:
-
High blood pressure (hypertension)
-
Diarrhea
-
Fatigue
-
Loss of appetite
-
Weight loss
-
Nausea and vomiting
-
Joint or muscle pain
Serious side effects:
-
Liver damage or elevated liver enzymes
-
Kidney problems
-
Heart problems, including congestive heart failure or irregular heartbeat
-
Bleeding or perforation in the gastrointestinal tract
-
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
-
Rare neurological condition called PRES (Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome)
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
-
The standard starting dose depends on the condition and patient weight:
-
For HCC: 8 mg once daily (if <60 kg) or 12 mg once daily (if ≥60 kg).
-
For thyroid or RCC: 24 mg once daily (may be built up using 4mg and 10mg capsules).
-
Dosage may be adjusted based on side effects and tolerability.
Method of Administration:
-
Take Lenvakast 4mg by mouth with a full glass of water.
-
Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or open it.
-
It may be taken with or without food.
-
Take at the same time each day for best results.
Precautions:
-
Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding – may cause harm to the baby.
-
Use effective contraception during and after treatment (minimum 30 days after stopping).
-
Monitor blood pressure regularly.
-
Caution in patients with heart disease, liver or kidney issues.
-
Regular lab tests (blood count, liver/kidney function) are necessary during treatment.
Drug Interactions:
Inform your doctor if you’re taking:
-
CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers (e.g., clarithromycin, rifampin)
-
Antihypertensives – may need dose adjustment
-
Anticoagulants – increased risk of bleeding
-
QT-prolonging agents – increased risk of arrhythmias
-
Immunotherapies – such as pembrolizumab (used in combination therapy)
Allergies:
-
Do not take Lenvakast if allergic to Lenvatinib or any other components of the capsule.
-
Watch for signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
-
Seek emergency medical help if any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur.
Overdose Information:
-
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
-
Symptoms may include extreme fatigue, severe high blood pressure, or unusual bleeding.
-
Supportive care and symptomatic treatment will be provided by healthcare professionals.
Missed Dose Instructions:
-
If a dose is missed and it's been less than 12 hours, take the missed dose as soon as possible.
-
If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
-
Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Notes:
-
Monitoring is essential – regular blood pressure checks, ECGs, and lab tests are recommended.
-
Avoid grapefruit juice during treatment as it may increase drug levels in your body.
-
Lenvakast is usually part of long-term treatment plans and should not be stopped without consulting your doctor.
-
Inform your dentist or surgeon before any procedures, as this medication may affect wound healing.
-
Always carry a medication identification card or list, especially when traveling.
