Title:Anti-VEGF Anticancer Drugs: Mind the Hypertension
Volume: 9
Issue: 2
Author(s): Vasiliki Katsi, Zerdes Ioannis*, Manolakou Stavroula, Makris Thomas, Nihoyannopoulos Petros, Tousoulis Dimitris and Kallikazaros Ioannis
Affiliation:
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina,Greece
Keywords:
Anti-VEGF cancer factors, arterial hypertension, axitinib, bevacizumab, cediranib, pazopanib, sorafenib, sunitinib,
vandetanib.
Abstract: The introduction of therapies that inhibit tumor angiogenesis and particularly target to vascular
endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)
(VEGF inhibitors/VEGFi) have revolutionized the treatment of various cancer types. Although their clinical benefit can
be optimal for cancer-affected patients, the safety of these targeted agents is of special concern especially for longer-term
adjuvant or maintenance treatment. Importantly, VEGFi therapy has been significantly associated with hypertension
(HTN) as an adverse effect and therefore the control of blood pressure (BP) after the administration of these drugs remains
a challenging matter to be faced. The aim of this review is to summarize studies which investigate the association
of VEGFi agents with HTN manifestation and the possible risks associated with this complication. Additionally, given
that the optimal management of HTN caused by VEGFi remains obscure, this review will focus on prevention strategies
including BP monitoring plans and propose potential therapeutic approaches.
