Thromboembolism Risk Associated with VEGFR-TKIs Highlighted in Study

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted by Chongqing University Cancer Hospital has shed light on the significant risk of thromboembolic events (TEEs) associated with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs). The study, published in Scientific Reports, analyzed data from the FAERS database and found that the incidence of TEEs was 2.98% of all adverse events (AEs) associated with VEGFR-TKIs. The research emphasizes the importance of screening for TEE risks during VEGFR-TKI therapy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed data from the FAERS database between the launch of VEGFR-TKIs and the third quarter of 2023, covering 2688 reported TEEs.
  • Lenvatinib, a VEGFR-TKI with low selectivity and high potency, exhibited the strongest TEE signal among the 8 VEGFR-TKIs studied.
  • Sorafenib, regorafenib, and sunitinib also showed a tendency of increased signal for disproportionate reporting of TEEs.
  • Indication, gender, age, drug class, concomitant medication, and AEs may influence the occurrence of VEGFR-TKI-related TEEs.
  • The study highlights the importance of screening for TEE risks during VEGFR-TKI therapy to ensure patient safety.
  • The research was conducted by Haichi Song and his team at Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, in collaboration with other experts.

Statistics:

  • The total number of reported TEEs was 2688, representing 2.98% of all AEs associated with VEGFR-TKIs.
  • A total of 17 and 12 preferred terms of arterial and venous thromboembolic events were observed.
  • Lenvatinib exhibited the strongest TEE signal among the VEGFR-TKIs studied.
  • Sorafenib, regorafenib, and sunitinib showed a tendency of increased signal for disproportionate reporting of TEEs.

Sources:

  • A pharmacovigilance study of thromboembolism events associated with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors based on FAERS database. Scientific Reports, 2025;15(1):25120.
  • Scientific Reports can be contacted at: Nature Portfolio, Heidelberger Platz 3, Berlin, 14197, Germany.
  • Haichi Song, Dept. of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
  • Nature Publishing Group (www.nature.com/).
  • Scientific Reports (www.nature.com/srep/).