Axitinib
Axitinib is an oral targeted therapy medication that belongs to the class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) in patients who have not responded to prior systemic therapy. The medication works by blocking specific enzymes that promote tumor growth and blood vessel formation.
Axitinib is a targeted cancer therapy used for advanced kidney cancer that works by inhibiting blood vessel growth to tumors.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01EK01
- RxNorm
- 1242999
- Generic
- Axitinib
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Inlyta
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks to the fetus
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
discontinue therapy if pregnancy occurs
fetal growth monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after last dose
no specific monitoring required
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children under 18not established
safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients; use only in clinical trials
close monitoring in clinical trial settings
geriatric
elderly 65 and olderno specific adjustment
no overall differences in safety or efficacy observed but monitor for increased sensitivity
monitor blood pressure and for adverse reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeuse with caution
no dose adjustment for mild to moderate impairment; use caution in severe impairment
monitor renal function regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderatereduce dose
reduce starting dose to approximately half in moderate hepatic impairment
monitor liver function tests closely
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval for advanced renal cell carcinoma
Drug class
VEGF receptor inhibitor classification
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacologic action
Primary indication
FDA-approved therapeutic use
Treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) in patients who have failed prior systemic therapy with a cytokine or anti-angiogenic agent.
Axitinib inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3), blocking the signaling pathways that promote tumor angiogenesis, growth, and metastatic progression.
May cause hypertension, thyroid problems, and increased risk of bleeding or gastrointestinal perforation. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, thyroid function, and liver enzymes is required. Should be taken on an empty stomach. May interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy