Sorafenib
Sorafenib is a targeted cancer medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as kinase inhibitors. It is prescribed to treat certain types of advanced kidney cancer, liver cancer, and thyroid cancer by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Sorafenib is a kinase inhibitor used to treat certain advanced kidney, liver, and thyroid cancers by targeting and blocking specific proteins involved in cancer cell growth.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01EX02
- RxNorm
- 495881
- Generic
- Sorafenib
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Nexavar
- 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.
Sorafenib is used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer), hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), and differentiated thyroid cancer that is locally advanced or metastatic and no longer responds to radioactive iodine treatment.
Sorafenib works by inhibiting multiple protein kinases, including those in the RAF signaling pathway and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), thereby blocking signals that promote cancer cell growth and the formation of new blood vessels that feed tumors.
Common side effects include hand-foot skin reaction, diarrhea, hypertension, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Sorafenib may cause heart problems, liver impairment, and severe bleeding. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking, as many drugs can interact with sorafenib. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart function, and liver tests is typically required during treatment.
Official drug label
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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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy