How to Compare Gleevec and Sutent

Two of the drugs sometimes prescribed by oncologists for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor, advanced kidney cancer or some other forms of cancer are Gleevec and Sutent. If you or a loved one have been prescribed either or both of these medications, you may find it helpful to compare the two. Knowing how to compare them can help you feel empowered and in charge of your treatment. While Gleevec and Sutent share some attributes, they are two distinct and different medications.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare how the two drugs work. Both Gleevec and Sutent are targeted therapies, meaning that unlike some other chemotherapy drugs, they target specific molecules in order to block the growth and spread of cancer. Both drugs are angiogenesis inhibitors, meaning that they attack the blood vessels that grow and support tumors. Although they work in a similar fashion to accomplish similar goals, they are slightly different. For example, both inhibit the KIT, PDGRFa and PDGRFb proteins. However, Sutent also inhibits six additional proteins, including the VEGF proteins.

• 2

  Examine the side effects of each drug. Both have a considerably long list. A partial list of Gleevec's most common side effects include anemia; bleeding; nausea; vomiting; swelling of the face, feet and hands; muscle cramps; bone pain; diarrhea; skin rash; fever; and low blood counts, which can put you at increased risk for infection. Some of Sutent's most common side effects include yellowish skin, tiredness, weakness, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, upset stomach, abdominal pain, constipation and skin rash.

• 3

  Compare their forms and dosages. Both Gleevec and Sutent come in capsule form. Sutent is taken once per day, while Gleevec is taken once or twice per day, depending upon the dosage and your doctor's prescription.