Managing Side Effects of mTOR Inhibitors in Cancer

Naomi Haas, of the Abramson Cancer Center, explains the potential side effects of a class of drugs called mTOR inhibitors, primarily the agents Sutent (sunitinib) and Nexavar (sorafenib). mTOR inhibitors target the blood vessels, but they also have other effects, Haas says.

Common side effects may include high blood pressure, fatigue, diarrhea and hand-foot syndrome.

"They are actually very manageable if they are reported early," she says. "What I recommend is that patients go over these side effects up front. We encourage patients to monitor their blood pressure. We encourage them to call early if they get any signs of these symptoms or discomfort." Dose adjustments and supportive care are two ways to manage potential side effects, she notes.