Dr. Vogelzang Describes Cabozantinib's Side Effects

Nicholas J. Vogelzang, MD, head of the Genitourinary Cancer Program at the Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada describes the unique side effects of cabozantinib (XL184) discovered in the phase II randomized discontinuation trial.

Cabozantinib has two basic side effects. The first is a fatigue that some have described as a "mental fogginess." The second side effect relates to intestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. While constipation is not usually talked about as being a drug side effect, many of the patients complained about the unusual side effect of constipation alternating with diarrhea.

Other side effects were similar to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibiting side effects. Those side effects include a hoarse voice, skin changes, and ulcers on the fingers and toes. On very rare occasions, serious and sometimes fatal side effects were reported, including blood vessel damage. There have also been a few reports of heart attacks as well.