Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor. It acts on RAF kinases, which drive cancer cell growth, and on VEGFR and PDGFR, which tumours use to build new blood vessels.
Approved uses
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, when it cannot be removed by surgery
- Advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer)
- Progressive differentiated thyroid carcinoma that no longer responds to radioactive iodine treatment
How is it usually taken?
Sorafenib tablets are usually taken twice a day without food, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Swallow the tablets whole with water. Your oncologist will decide your dose and may reduce it or pause treatment to manage side effects.
Common side effects
- Hand-foot skin reaction: redness, pain, swelling or blisters on the palms and soles
- Diarrhoea
- Tiredness and weight loss
- Rash, dry or itchy skin, and hair thinning
- High blood pressure
Hand-foot skin reaction is most common in the first weeks. Moisturising the hands and feet regularly, wearing comfortable shoes and avoiding pressure and hot water can help. Tell your care team early, because prompt management can prevent it from becoming severe.
Contact your doctor promptly if you notice
- Chest pain or pressure, or a fast or irregular heartbeat
- Unusual bleeding, black stools or vomiting blood
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- A severe skin reaction or blistering
Practical tips
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially in the first six weeks
- Tell your doctor before any surgery, as Sorafenib can affect wound healing
- Tell your oncologist about every other medicine you take, including over-the-counter and herbal products
Important: This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the instructions of your oncologist and the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Do not start, stop or change any treatment on the basis of this article.