Some people taking Lenvima have developed a perforation (a hole or tear) or a fistula (an abnormal passageway) within the stomach or intestines. Get emergency medical help if you have severe stomach pain, or if you feel like you are choking and gagging when you eat or drink.
Call your doctor at once if you have signs of serious side effects, including: severe chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in your ankles, numbness or weakness, confusion, severe headache, problems with speech or vision, seizure (convulsions), unusual bleeding, coughing up blood, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Before taking this medicine
To make sure Lenvima is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member);
heart disease, high blood pressure;
a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, or blood clot;
headaches or vision problems;
bleeding problems;
a perforation (a hole or tear) in your stomach or intestines;
a seizure disorder;
kidney disease; or
liver disease.
Lenvima may cause jaw bone problems (osteonecrosis). The risk is highest in people with cancer, blood cell disorders, pre-existing dental problems, or people treated with steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation. Ask your doctor about your own risk.
Lenvatinib may harm an unborn baby. You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 30 days after your last dose.
Pregnancy may be less likely to occur while the mother or the father is using this medicine. Both men and women should still use birth control to prevent pregnancy because the medicine can harm an unborn baby.
Do not breastfeed while using Lenvima, and for at least 1 week after your last dose.
How should I take Lenvima?
Take Lenvima exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Take Lenvima at the same time each day, with or without food.
To get a full dose, you may need to take a combination of capsules with different amounts (strengths) of lenvatinib in them. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Swallow the Lenvima capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, dissolve the capsules in water as follows:
Measure 1 tablespoon of water or apple juice and pour the liquid into a small glass.
Place only enough capsules for one dose into the liquid. Allow the capsules to dissolve for at least 10 minutes, then stir the mixture for at least 3 more minutes.
Drink this mixture right away. Add a little more water or juice to the glass, swirl gently and drink right away.
Call your doctor if you are sick with vomiting or severe diarrhea. Prolonged illness can lead to dehydration and kidney failure.
Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about when to start taking medicine to prevent diarrhea while you are using Lenvima.
You will need frequent medical tests and blood pressure checks.
Pay special attention to your dental hygiene while taking Lenvima. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. If you need to have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist ahead of time that you are using this medicine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
