Cabometyx

Cabometyx is the brand name for cabozantinib, an oral multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in oncology. It is prescribed for certain advanced cancers and is marketed in different regions by different companies. In the United States, Exelixis holds the rights, while international rights have been licensed to Ipsen, reflecting a common global distribution arrangement for this drug.

Mechanism of action: Cabozantinib targets multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, including MET, VEGFR2 (KDR), and AXL, as well as RET and ROS1. By inhibiting these kinases, it can reduce tumor cell signaling and angiogenesis, contributing to anti-tumor activity in several cancer types.

Regulatory status and indications: Cabometyx has been approved for adults with advanced renal cell carcinoma after prior systemic therapy and for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma following sorafenib treatment. In addition to these primary indications, the drug is the subject of ongoing research in other cancers and in combination regimens, with approvals and labeling varying by country.

Safety and side effects: Common adverse events include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, weight loss, hypertension, stomatitis, and hand-foot syndrome. Serious risks can include hepatotoxicity, hemorrhage, thromboembolism, and impaired wound healing or liver function. Because of these potential effects, treatment requires regular monitoring, management of adverse events, and dose adjustments as needed.

Clinical context: Cabometyx represents a targeted therapy option in the landscape of tyrosine kinase inhibitors for solid tumors. As with other anticancer therapies, its use depends on tumor type, prior treatments, patient health status, and regulatory approvals in a given jurisdiction.