This leaflet provides information on a course of treatment known as Tivozanib. The leaflet will explain what this is and when and how it is given. It will also tell you about common side effects that you may experience. Contact telephone numbers and details of how to obtain further information on Tivozanib are given at the end of the leaflet.
What is Tivozanib treatment?
Tivozanib is a cancer treatment which is given as capsules. It works by stopping the cancer cell from growing.
Why am I having Tivozanib?
Your doctor has recommended Tivozanib because it has been found to be effective in treating your type of cancer.
How should I take the Tivozanib capsules?
You should take your capsules once a day with or without food. Swallow them whole with a large glass of water. It is advised that you take your capsules at approximately the same time each day. Do not crush/chew the capsule.
How many capsules will I need to take?
You will usually need to take one capsule each day for 21 days and then have 7 days without taking any capsules. The number of capsules to take will be clearly labeled on the box.
What should I do if I forget to take my capsules?
What if I take too many capsules?
Please contact Velindre Cancer Centre immediately for advice. The telephone numbers are at the end of the leaflet.
What if I vomit?
If you vomit after taking your Tivozanib do not try to take another dose, wait until your next capsule is due.
How should I store my Tivozanib capsules?
You should store your capsules in their original packaging in a safe place away from children. They should be kept in a cool dry place.
Any unused capsules should be returned to the hospital pharmacy.
How long will I need to take my Tivozanib?
Your doctor will discuss with you how long you need to take Tivozanib. You will usually take Tivozanib for as long as it is helpful in treating your cancer.
How often will I see the specialist team?
You will see the specialist team regularly in clinic. Your doctor will discuss how often you will need to be reviewed.
You will have regular blood tests and we will check how you are feeling and discuss any problems you may have. This is so we can check how the treatment is affecting you.
Can I bring relatives and friends with me?
You are welcome to bring someone to stay with you during your treatment. Space is limited so there is not usually room for more than one person. Treatment areas are not suitable for young children.
Are there any side effects to Tivozanib?
As with all medicines some patients can get side effects when taking Tivozanib. Usually these side effects are mild or moderate. The doctors, nurses and pharmacists can give you advice or answer any questions you may have.
High blood pressure
Tivozanib can cause an increase in blood pressure in some people. Your blood pressure will be checked regularly during your treatment, especially when you first start taking the medication. Also, your urine may be monitored for protein, an indication your blood pressure may be high.
If you have headaches, nosebleeds or feel dizzy let your doctor know straightaway. High blood pressure can usually be controlled with medication prescribed by your doctor.
Diarrhoea
Some patients have diarrhoea when taking Tivozanib. We will give you tablets, called loperamide to control the diarrhoea if it occurs. Take 2 loperamide on the onset and one after each episode of diarrhoea. However, if you have four or more bowel movements in 24 hours above what is normal for you please contact Velindre Cancer Centre immediately. The telephone numbers are at the end of the leaflet.
Tiredness and fatigue
This treatment may make you feel more tired than usual. It is important to listen to your body and rest if you need to, but carry out your normal activities if you feel able. Some people find it beneficial to take gentle exercise as well as rest. However, if you are sleeping half the day contact the treatment helpline. The telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.
Sore mouth
Your mouth may become sore or you may develop mouth ulcers. You will be given a mouthwash to prevent infection at the start of your treatment. If your mouth is so painful you cannot eat or drink, ring the treatment helpline: the telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.
Soreness to your hands and feet
You may experience mild pain, redness and/or swelling of your hands or feet. If this occurs we recommend using a non perfumed cream or lotion regularly. Please contact Velindre Cancer Centre if your hands or feet become painful.
Loss of appetite and nausea
You may experience a loss of appetite and some people may feel sick whilst taking Tivozanib but this can usually be well controlled with anti sickness medication. However, if you are sick more than once in 24 hours despite taking regular anti-sickness medicine, you should stop taking your Tivozanib capsules and contact Velindre Cancer Centre for advice. The telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.
Heart problems
Tivozanib treatment can occasionally cause heart problems, such as chest pain or a fast heart rate.
If you already have a heart condition or you take any heart medication, please tell your Velindre doctor before you start treatment. If you experience any chest pain, call 999 –however, this is not a very common side-effect. If you experience a fast heart rate ring the treatment helpline for advice, the telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.
Slow wound healing
Wounds may take longer to heal while you are having treatment with Tivozanib. Speak with your consultant if you need to have surgery as you may need to stop your treatment temporarily
Blood Clots
A diagnosis of cancer can increase your risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis), and having cancer treatment may increase this risk further. It is important to tell your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as pain, redness and swelling in your leg, or breathlessness and chest pain.
Blood clots can be very serious. However, most clots can usually be successfully treated with drugs to thin the blood. Your doctor or nurse can give you more information.
Other possible side effects:
Other information
Sometimes cancer drugs can have very serious side effects which rarely can be life threatening. It is important to inform Velindre cancer centre if you are concerned about any side-effects.
If you are admitted to another hospital, tell them that you are on this treatment. This is important in relation to high blood pressure, risk of bleeding, wound healing, development of fistulas or risk of bowel perforation, which is important for any surgical procedures.
A diagnosis of cancer can increase your risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis), and having cancer treatment may increase this risk further. It is important to tell your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as pain, redness and swelling in your leg, or breathlessness and chest pain.
It is important you do not become pregnant or father a child whilst taking Tivozanib.
Women should not breast feed whilst taking Tivozanib.
Is it alright to take other medicines with Tivozanib?
It is important to tell us about any other medicines you are taking. There are certain medications you must not take with Tivozanib, including over the counter medicines and herbal remedies, such as St Johns Wort.
You should inform your GP and pharmacist you are taking Tivozanib if you are prescribed medication or buy over the counter from a pharmacy.
Manufacturer’s patient information leaflets
Velindre leaflets provide information about very common and common side-effects: for more information regarding the less common side-effects please refer to the manufacturers patient information leaflets, obtained from Velindre pharmacy and/or on the internet at www.medicines.org.uk. Sometimes patients may find these leaflets difficult to read however. Please ask if you would like a copy from your doctor or from Velindre pharmacy
Useful website:
Contact telephone numbers
Velindre Cancer Centre 029 2061 5888
Ask for the treatment helpline if you are unwell at home and need immediate attention at any time of the day or night. For example you should phone if you:
If you need to let us know that you have been admitted to another hospital ask switchboard to transfer you to your consultant’s secretary
Pharmacy department 029 2061 5888 ext 6223
Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm for queries about your medicines
Tenovus freephone 0808 808 1010
cancer helpline
7 days a week 8am – 8pm for general queries on cancer
This leaflet has been written by health professionals. The information contained in the leaflet is evidence based. It has been approved by doctors, nurses and patients. It is reviewed and updated every 2 years.
Prepared June 2018