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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking vandetanib ()?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it, or if you have a history of Long QT syndrome.

To make sure you can safely take vandetanib, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver or kidney disease;
• high blood pressure, heart disease, heart rhythm disorder;
• a family history of Long QT syndrome;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in your blood;
• skin problems;
• severe diarrhea;
• a history of breathing problems; or
• recent stomach or intestinal bleeding.

Vandetanib is available only under a special program. You must be registered in the program and sign documents stating that you understand the risks and benefits of taking this medication.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use vandetanib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use effective birth control while you are using this medication and for at least 4 months after your treatment ends.

It is not known whether vandetanib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are taking vandetanib.

How should I take vandetanib ()?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

You may take vandetanib with or without food.

Vandetanib is usually taken once per day. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Do not crush a vandetanib tablet. Swallow the pill whole. Crushing the pill may cause your body to absorb too much of the drug at one time. The medicine from a crushed or broken pill can be dangerous if it gets on your skin. If this occurs, wash your skin with soap and water and rinse thoroughly.

To make swallowing easier, place the tablet into a glass of water (2 ounces) and allow the tablet to disperse in the water. The tablet will not dissolve completely. Drink this mixture right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more liquid to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested often. Your heart rate may also need to be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). Visit your doctor regularly.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using vandetanib. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop taking vandetanib for longer than 2 weeks for any reason, do not start taking it again without your doctor's advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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