Oral targeted therapies such as Pazopanib, Sunitinib and Sorafenib are taken at home, which means patients and families often notice side effects first. Most side effects can be managed well when they are reported early. This guide covers the most common ones. It does not replace advice from your oncologist.
The golden rule: report, don't adjust
Never reduce, skip or stop a cancer medicine on your own. Your oncologist may lower the dose, pause treatment or add supportive medicines, and these decisions depend on blood tests and examination. Keep your care team's contact number at hand.
Hand-foot skin reaction
Redness, tingling, tenderness, thickened skin or blisters on the palms and soles.
- Moisturise hands and feet twice a day with a thick, fragrance-free cream
- Wear soft, well-fitting shoes and cotton socks
- Avoid hot water, long walks and heavy gripping in the first weeks
- Report it early, especially if it is painful or affects daily activities
High blood pressure
Many targeted therapies raise blood pressure.
- Check your blood pressure at home if your doctor advises it and keep a record
- Seek urgent help for a severe headache, confusion, blurred vision or chest pain
Diarrhoea
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
- Eat small, frequent, bland meals and limit spicy or greasy food
- Ask your doctor in advance which anti-diarrhoea medicine you may take
- Report diarrhoea that continues for more than a day, or any sign of dehydration such as dizziness or very little urine
Fatigue
- Plan the day around your energy levels and rest when needed
- Light activity such as short walks can help
- Tell your doctor if tiredness is new or severe, as it may be linked to blood counts or thyroid function
Liver effects
Several targeted therapies can affect the liver, which is why regular blood tests matter. Do not miss scheduled tests.
When to seek urgent medical care
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Bleeding that will not stop, black stools or vomiting blood
- Chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting
- Fever of 38°C or higher
- Severe diarrhoea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
