FOTIVDA (tivozanib) is an oral targeted therapy for adults with advanced renal cell carcinoma who have not responded to two or more prior systemic treatments. As a VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, it blocks VEGFR-1, -2, and -3, disrupting angiogenesis and depriving tumors of the blood supply needed for growth and progression. Treatment is given once daily for 21 days followed by a 7-day break in 28-day cycles, continuing as long as it is effective and tolerable.
Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, hoarseness, thyroid hormone changes, mouth sores, low sodium or phosphate levels, and elevated blood lipase. FOTIVDA may also affect fertility in men and women.
Serious risks include high blood pressure, heart problems, bleeding, thyroid dysfunction, and, rarely, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS), which can cause headaches, seizures, or vision changes. Regular monitoring and prompt management are essential to ensure safety during treatment.