Donafenib

A kinase inhibitor used in cancer treatment

Donafenib
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Donafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is a derivative of sorafenib, designed to improve efficacy and reduce side effects. Donafenib is primarily used in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most common type of liver cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Donafenib works by inhibiting multiple tyrosine kinases, which are enzymes involved in the signaling pathways that regulate cell division and survival. By blocking these pathways, donafenib can slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells. It targets several kinases, including VEGFR, PDGFR, and RAF kinases, which are involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis.

Clinical Use

Donafenib is primarily indicated for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. It is used in patients who have not responded to other treatments or who are not candidates for surgical resection or liver transplantation. The drug is administered orally, and the dosage is adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerance.

Side Effects

Common side effects of donafenib include fatigue, diarrhea, hand-foot skin reaction, hypertension, and rash. More severe side effects can include liver dysfunction, bleeding, and cardiac issues. Patients are monitored regularly to manage these side effects and adjust treatment as necessary.

Development and Approval

Donafenib was developed as a modification of sorafenib, with the aim of improving its pharmacokinetic properties and reducing adverse effects. It has undergone clinical trials to establish its efficacy and safety profile. The drug has been approved for use in China for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Comparison with Sorafenib

Donafenib and sorafenib share a similar mechanism of action, but donafenib has been shown to have a different side effect profile and may offer improved tolerability. Studies have compared the two drugs in terms of efficacy and safety, with some suggesting that donafenib may provide a better quality of life for patients due to fewer adverse effects.

Related pages

• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
• Sorafenib