Comparing the Efficacy and Side Effect Profiles of Pazopanib and Sunitinib in the Treatment of Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Narrative Literature Review

Muhammad Faraaz Ismail

Abstract

Background: Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of all kidney malignancies [1, 3]. Targeted therapies such as Pazopanib and Sunitinib, which inhibit the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, have become integral to the management of metastatic RCC [4, 5]. Despite their similar mechanisms of action, these agents differ in their side effect profiles, which presents important considerations for patient tolerability and quality of life (QoL) [11, 12]. Objectives: This literature review aims to compare the efficacy and side effect profiles of Pazopanib and Sunitinib in treating advanced or metastatic RCC, providing a synthesis of the current evidence to guide clinicians in optimizing treatment strategies based on patient-specific factors. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using a descriptive synthesis approach. Relevant studies from 2006 to 2024 were identified in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational cohort studies were included, with a focus on identifying trends in efficacy and side effect profiles. Conclusion: Pazopanib and Sunitinib provide comparable efficacy in treating advanced RCC, though they differ significantly in their side effect profiles. Pazopanib is generally better tolerated, particularly in reducing fatigue, hand-foot syndrome, and mucosal side effects. In contrast, Sunitinib may be more suitable for patients with concerns about hypertension or hepatotoxicity. Clinicians should carefully balance efficacy with patient-specific tolerability when selecting between these agents. Further research should focus on combination therapies and long-term safety profiles.

Keywords

pazopanib, sunitinib; renal cell carcinoma; efficacy; side effects.

Cite This Article

Ismail, M. F. (2024). Comparing the Efficacy and Side Effect Profiles of Pazopanib and Sunitinib in the Treatment of Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Narrative Literature Review. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 5| Issue 5: Sep-Oct 2024, Pages 1020-1022, URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Volume5-Issue5-Sep-Oct-No.682-1020-1022.pdf

Volume 5 | Issue 5: Sep-Oct 2024