Vandetanib
Vandetanib is an oral targeted therapy that inhibits multiple receptor tyrosine kinases involved in tumor growth and blood vessel formation. It is primarily used to treat medullary thyroid cancer that is unresectable or metastatic. By blocking EGFR, VEGFR, RET, and other kinases, it slows cancer progression by inhibiting both tumor cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis.
Vandetanib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat medullary thyroid cancer by blocking multiple pathways involved in tumor growth and blood vessel formation.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01EX04
- RxNorm
- 1098413
- Generic
- Vandetanib
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Caprelsa
- 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.
Treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer in patients with symptomatic or progressive disease.
Vandetanib inhibits the tyrosine kinase activity of EGFR and VEGFR families, RET, BRK, TIE2, EPH receptors, and Src kinases. This dual inhibition blocks tumor cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation that feeds the tumor).
Vandetanib carries a black box warning for QT prolongation and risk of torsades de pointes. It requires ECG monitoring and should not be used in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. Common side effects include rash, diarrhea, hypertension, and nausea. Use with caution in patients taking other QT-prolonging medications.
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