provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Caprelsa Coupon - Caprelsa 100mg tablet

Caprelsa

vandetanib
Used for Thyroid Cancer
Used for Thyroid Cancer

Caprelsa (vandetanib) is an oral targeted therapy used to treat adults with medullary thyroid cancer that can’t be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body. It’s typically taken by mouth once a day, and side effects include diarrhea, rash, nausea, and headaches. It can also cause an irregular heart rhythm (QT prolongation) that can lead to dizziness, fainting, or even death. Because of this risk, Caprelsa (vandetanib) is only available under a restricted distribution program called a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Belinda Li, PharmD, BCOP
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 12, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsContraindicationsAlternativesImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Caprelsa (vandetanib)?

What is Caprelsa (vandetanib) used for?

How Caprelsa (vandetanib) works

Caprelsa (vandetanib) is a targeted therapy called a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, meaning it stops specific kinases from working. Kinases are enzymes or proteins that send signals to cells, helping them grow.

Caprelsa (vandetanib) works by blocking these signals in cancer cells, which in turn reduces their blood supply, slows their growth, and hinders their ability to survive.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsCaprelsa
Drug ClassTyrosine kinase inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Caprelsa (vandetanib)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Diarrhea (57%)
  • Rash (53%)
  • Acne (35%)
  • High blood pressure (33%)
  • Nausea (33%)
  • Headache (26%)
  • Fatigue (24%)
  • Upper respiratory infection (23%)
  • Poor appetite (21%)
  • Stomach pain (21%)

Other Side Effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Indigestion
  • Itching
  • Nail changes
  • Hair loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Depression
  • Muscle spasms
  • Eye problems

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation): chest pounding, short of breath, chest pain, feeling faint, lightheaded, dizzy, heart beating fast
  • Severe allergic or skin reactions: rash, peeling of skin, hives, trouble breathing, swollen lymph nodes
  • Lung damage (interstitial lung disease): shortness of breath, fever, lasting dry cough
  • Stroke: weakness or numbness in your arm, legs, or face on one side of the body, trouble speaking, blurred vision, dizziness, loss of balance, trouble walking, confusion
  • Serious bleeds: bleeding or bruises that doesn’t stop or go away, large amount of bleeding, blood in the urine, bloody or black and tarry stool
  • Heart failure: swelling, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, fatigue, weight changes
  • Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES): severe headaches, seizures, confusion, changes in vision, difficulty staying awake, trouble speaking
  • Kidney problems: swelling, less urination, nausea, fatigue, metallic taste changes, cramps

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Bleeding gums

blindness

blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin

blurred vision

body aches or pain

chest pain or tightness

chills

cloudy urine

confusion

cough

coughing up blood

difficulty with breathing or swallowing

dizziness

ear congestion

fainting

fever

headache

increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding

increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

irregular heartbeat, recurrent

loss of voice

muscle cramps in the hands, arms, feet, legs, or face

nervousness

nosebleeds

numbness and tingling around the mouth, fingertips, or feet

paralysis

pounding in the ears

prolonged bleeding from cuts

red or black, tarry stools

red or dark brown urine

seizures

severe sunburn

slow or fast heartbeat

sneezing

sore throat

stomach cramps or pain

stuffy or runny nose

tenderness

tremor

trouble breathing

unusual tiredness or weakness, severe

watery or bloody diarrhea

Less common

Blue lips, fingernails, or skin

dilated neck veins

extreme tiredness or weakness

infection from breathing foreign substance into the lungs

irregular heartbeat

irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

lightheadedness

swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

weight gain

Rare

Bloating

constipation

decreased urine output

indigestion

loss of appetite

nausea

pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Belching

blemishes on the skin

change in or loss of taste

cracked, dry, or scaly skin

cracks in the skin

decreased weight

depression

discoloration of the fingernails or toenails

dry mouth or skin

hair loss or thinning of the hair

heartburn

lack or loss of strength

loosening of the fingernails

loss of heat from the body

muscle aches or spasms

pimples

rash with flat lesions or small raised lesions on the skin

redness or other discoloration of the skin

redness or soreness around the fingernails

stomach discomfort or upset

trouble sleeping

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Caprelsa (vandetanib)

thumbs-up

Pros

Typically taken by mouth once a day with or without food

Can also be given through a feeding tube if you can’t swallow

Recommended treatment option for medullary thyroid cancer

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause a life-threatening irregular heart rhythm

Commonly causes diarrhea, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and rash

Only available from providers and pharmacies enrolled in a special REMS program

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Caprelsa (vandetanib)

pharmacist

  • Caprelsa (vandetanib) can be taken with or without food at the same time every day. It should be taken whole and not crushed or cut.

    • If you’re having trouble swallowing the Caprelsa (vandetanib) tablet whole or if you have a feeding tube, dissolve it in 2 oz of water and stir for 10 minutes, and then take it right away. Rinse any residue from your glass with 4 oz of water to get all of the medication.

      • If you miss a dose of Caprelsa (vandetanib), take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it’s within 12 hours of your next dose time, skip the missed dose and continue taking Caprelsa (vandetanib) at your usual time. Don’t take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose as this might cause additional side effects.

        • Caprelsa (vandetanib) can interact with many commonly used supplements, over-the-counter, and prescription medications including St. John's wort, digoxin, and medications that prolong the QT interval. It’s important to tell your provider and pharmacist about all the medications you’re taking to avoid serious interactions.

          • Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause life-threatening heart rhythm changes. Due to the potential risk, you’ll need electrocardiograms (EKG) to monitor your heart rhythm. Tell your provider right away if your chest is pounding, or if you become short of breath, feel faint, or lightheaded.

            • Caprelsa (vandetanib) can also make you more sensitive to the sun. Be sure to wear sunscreen to prevent a sunburn while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib) while taking this medication.

              • If you’re able to become pregnant, use effective birth control during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose. And if you’re breastfeeding, avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose. This is because Caprelsa (vandetanib) might cause harm to an unborn baby or breastfeeding infant.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Caprelsa (vandetanib)

                How well does Caprelsa (vandetanib) work to treat people with medullary thyroid cancer?
                In a clinical study, Caprelsa (vandetanib) lowered the risk of cancer spreading or worsening by 65% compared to placebo. But it didn’t show that people lived any longer compared to those who received placebo.
                How long will I have to take Caprelsa (vandetanib)?
                Caprelsa (vandetanib) should be taken until it’s no longer working to treat your cancer or if there are side effects that you can’t tolerate. Talk with your provider about how long you’ll need to take Caprelsa (vandetanib) and ways to manage side effects you might experience.
                How does Caprelsa (vandetanib) affect the heart?
                Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause changes in your heart rhythm, called QT prolongation. That’s why Caprelsa (vandetanib) is only available through a special program called Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). This means you can only get it from specific pharmacies, and it can only be prescribed by providers who are part of this program. Your provider will check your electrolytes and the electrical activity of your heart with an electrocardiogram (EKG) to check for this potentially life-threatening side effect. Tell your provider right away if you feel your chest pounding, chest pain, shortness of breath, faint, or dizzy. These could be symptoms of QT prolongation.
                Is Caprelsa (vandetanib) safe in pregnancy?
                Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause harm to an unborn baby. Your healthcare provider might have you take a pregnancy test before you start taking the medication. Use birth control while taking this medication and for at least 4 months after the last dose. Let your provider know right away if you become pregnant while on this medication.
                Is Caprelsa (vandetanib) safe while breastfeeding?
                It isn’t recommended to breastfeed while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib). There are no studies to show how Caprelsa (vandetanib) affects breastfed children, but because of the possibility of serious side effects, don’t breastfeed while taking this medication and for at least 4 months after the last dose.
                GoodRxEducationalIcon

                How to save using GoodRx

                Compare Prices
                1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                Select your free coupon
                2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                Show coupon to your pharmacist
                3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                Get free couponLearn more
                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Caprelsa (vandetanib)?

                Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)

                • Risk factors: Taking other medications that cause QT prolongation | Born with QT prolongation | History of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) | Taking medications that interact with Caprelsa (vandetanib)

                  Caprelsa (vandetanib) can lengthen the time period from when the heart squeezes and then relaxes. This is known as QT prolongation and is tested with an electrocardiogram (EKG). When this happens, it raises the risk for life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms.

                  Your risk of QT prolongation is greater if you have low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your body, or if you’re taking other medications that cause QT prolongation. Your provider might run tests to make sure your electrolytes are normal. Be sure to tell your provider about all the medications you’re taking and don’t start any new medications while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib) without talking to your provider or pharmacist first. If you feel your chest pounding, short of breath, chest pain, feeling faint, or lightheaded while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib), call 911 right away.

                  Due to the risk of QT prolongation, Caprelsa (vandetanib) is only available through a restricted program called Caprelsa (vandetanib) Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). This program is set so that only select providers and pharmacies can dispense or prescribe this medication. If you have questions about the REMS program, talk with your provider.

                  risk-warning

                  Serious skin reactions

                  Caprelsa (vandetanib) can sometimes cause serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Although this is rare, these skin reactions can lead to hospitalization and other complications. Severe skin reactions can happen at any time while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib) and even up to 4 months after stopping treatment. Get medical care right away if you have a rash, blistering or peeling skin, painful sores on your face, swelling, or trouble breathing.

                  risk-warning

                  Lung problems

                  Rare, but serious lung problems, including inflammation of the lungs and pneumonia can happen while taking Caprelsa (vandetanib). Let your provider know if you have difficulty breathing, cough, or fatigue during your treatment.

                  risk-warning

                  Heart failure

                  • Risk factors: Heart problems

                    Caprelsa (vandetanib) can lead to new or worsening heart failure and affect how well your heart pumps blood through your body. If you have heart problems, your provider will monitor you more regularly to make sure it doesn't get worse. Tell your provider if you have symptoms of heart problems including, shortness of breath that worsens with activity or while lying flat, swelling in your legs or feet, sudden weight gain, fatigue, or dizziness.

                    risk-warning

                    Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)

                    Rare cases of a brain condition called posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) have happened with people taking Caprelsa (vandetanib). It can occur from swelling and narrowing of blood vessels in the brain and have serious symptoms. Get medical help right away if you have sudden severe headaches, sudden confusion, sudden vision loss or vision changes, behavioral changes, or seizures. You’ll have to stop the medication right away if you have PRES.

                    risk-warning

                    Stroke

                    • Risk factors: Diabetes | High cholesterol | Alcohol use | High blood pressure

                      Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause a stroke . Get emergency help right away if you have any signs of a stroke, including weakness or numbness in your arms, brain, legs, or face on one side of the body, trouble speaking, blurred vision, loss of balance, trouble walking, or confusion.

                      risk-warning

                      Serious bleeding

                      Caprelsa (vandetanib) can raise the risk of serious bleeding, which can result in death. Bleeding can happen anywhere in the body. Tell your provider right away if you experience any serious or unusual bleeding. Get urgent medical attention if you have severe or sudden headaches, extreme weakness, change in vision, large amounts of blood in your stool, or coughing up blood.

                      risk-warning

                      Thyroid problems

                      Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause low levels of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), an important hormone needed for your body to function normally. Your provider will check your thyroid levels regularly while you’re taking this medication to make sure your thyroid hormone levels are normal.

                      risk-warning

                      High blood pressure

                      • Risk factors: History of high blood pressure

                        Caprelsa (vandetanib) can raise your blood pressure. Your provider might ask you to monitor your blood pressure at home. If your blood pressure starts to rise, you might need to start blood pressure lowering medications. Also if your blood pressure gets too high, your provider might have you lower your dose of Caprelsa (vandetanib) or stop taking the medication altogether. Let your provider know if you notice symptoms of high blood pressure, such as dizziness and headaches.

                        risk-warning

                        Kidney problems

                        • Risk factors: History of kidney problems

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) can lead to kidney problems that can be serious. Your provider will monitor your kidney health regularly through lab work. If you develop kidney problems, you might need to stop Caprelsa (vandetanib). Talk with your provider if you notice changes in how often you urinate or if there is any blood in your urine so they can check for kidney issues.

                          risk-warning

                          Wound healing problems

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) can make it harder for wounds to heal. Tell your provider if you have any injuries or if your wounds aren't healing or healing very slowly. Let your provider know if you have any planned surgeries or procedures. Your provider will need to give you instructions on when to stop and restart Caprelsa (vandetanib). In general, you should stop taking Caprelsa (vandetanib) for at least 1 month before surgery and for at least 2 weeks after surgery so that your wounds can heal.

                          risk-warning

                          Harm to unborn baby

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) can cause harm to unborn babies. If you’re able to become pregnant, your provider will have you do a pregnancy test before starting treatment. Use effective birth control while taking this medication and for at least 4 months after your last dose.

                          dosage

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) dosage forms

                          Typical dosing for Caprelsa (vandetanib)

                          The typical dose is 300 mg by mouth once a day, with or without food.

                          Your dose might be different if you have kidney problems or experience certain side effects.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Caprelsa (vandetanib) and other drugs

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Caprelsa (vandetanib). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          contraindications-icon

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Caprelsa (vandetanib) will not be safe for you to take.
                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Caprelsa (vandetanib)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Caprelsa (vandetanib). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Caprelsa (vandetanib)
                          Used for:
                          View Prices
                          Retevmo (selpercatinib)
                          Used for:

                          • Advanced or metastatic NSCLC with RET gene fusion in adults

                          • Advanced or metastatic thyroid cancers with RET mutations in adults and children age 12 years and older

                          • Advanced or metastatic tumors with RET mutations in adults, when other treatments haven’t worked or aren’t available

                          $23639.85 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          images

                          Caprelsa (vandetanib) images

                          White Round Z 100 - Caprelsa 100mg Tablet
                          This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Z 100".White Round Z 100 - Caprelsa 100mg Tablet

                          Get savings updates for Caprelsa (vandetanib)

                          Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Caprelsa (vandetanib) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                          By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Al-Akchar, M., et al. (2022). Long QT syndrome. StatPearls.

                          Crotti, L., et al. (2008). Congenital long QT syndrome. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases.

                          Farzam, K., et al. (2023). QT prolonging drugs. StatPearls.

                          View All References (14)

                          Genzyme Corporation. (2023). Caprelsa- vandetanib tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Labib, A., et al. (2023). Toxic epidermal necrolysis. StatPearls.

                          MedlinePlus. (2022). Thyroid cancer - medullary carcinoma.

                          MedlinePlus. (2022). Tube feeding.

                          National Cancer Institute. (2019). Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC).

                          National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2022). Thyroid cancer.

                          National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Long QT syndrome.

                          National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2018). Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. 

                          Sudulagunta, S. R., et al. (2017). Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). Oxford Medical Case Reports.

                          Thomson, R. J., et al. (2023). Tyrosine kinase inhibitors. StatPearls.

                          Triplett, J. D., et al. (2022). Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES): Diagnosis and management. Practical Neurology.

                          van Noord, C., et al. (2010). Drug- and non-drug-associated QT interval prolongation. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.

                          Wells, S. A., Jr., et al. (2012). Vandetanib in patients with locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer: A randomized, double-blind phase III trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology.

                          Yap, Y. G., et al. (2003). Drug induced QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Heart.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                          Was this page helpful?

                          Browse medications

                          View All

                          Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.