Sorafenib is an antiangiogenic agent which was approved for its medical use on 20th December 2005.

Sorafenib has been developed to treat locally advanced and metastatic kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma), thyroid cancer (progressive differentiated thyroid carcinoma) and liver cancer (unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma) after disease progression and inadequate response to other anticancer therapies.

Sorafenib is available in the form of film-coated tablets in the dose 200mg. The usual recommended adult dose is 800mg of Sorafenib a day. Take this tablet at the same time each day after a low-fat meal.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Sorafenib are acne, breathlessness, changes in taste, hair loss, flu-like symptoms, constipation, dehydration, depression, diarrhoea, impotence, nausea, vomiting, weakness, tiredness, heartburn, hoarseness in voice, indigestion, weight loss, pain and inflammation. If you experience severe skin reactions, changes in the appearance or texture of the skin, chest pain/pressure, heavy sweating, numbness, or confusion, report to your doctor immediately.

 Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, infection, or severe bleeding. During the Sorafenib treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood counts, blood sugar, electrolytes, thyroid panel, urine test (for proteinuria) and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, nutrient deficiencies, hypertension, problems in your heart, liver, skin, kidneys or blood disorders. Tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures while on treatment with Sorafenib.

Sorafenib impairs fertility in male and female patients. It is not known if Sorafenib harms an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. It is advised for both men and women to follow proper contraceptive methods during and two weeks after the last dose of Sorafenib. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are on the treatment as it is not known if Sorafenib passes into the breast milk.

Sorafenib can make you feel dizzy and weak. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines if you experience dizziness, confusion or tiredness while on treatment with Sorafenib. Drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration.

1. Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Pathway-Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203-1236.
2. Bayer Inc., [Revised on 27th Sep 2022] [Accessed on 8th Oct 2022], https://www.bayer.com/sites/default/files/2020-11/nexavar-pm-en.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.