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Pharmacovigilance imbalance analysis of VEGFR-TKI-related taste and smell disorders

Zhong-Hua Fu1, Chenglong Zhao1, Yaqin Wang1

  • 1Department of pharmacy, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan University, No.7 Weiwu Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.

Scientific Reports
|January 24, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs) are linked to taste and smell disorders (TSDs) in cancer patients. This study highlights the need for monitoring and managing TSDs associated with these targeted therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacovigilance
  • Sensory Science

Background:

  • Taste and smell disorders (TSDs) negatively impact cancer patients' quality of life and nutritional status.
  • Cytotoxic drugs are known causes of TSDs, but the impact of newer targeted therapies like VEGFR-TKIs remains understudied.
  • VEGFR-TKIs have improved cancer patient survival but may introduce new adverse events.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs) and the development of taste and smell disorders (TSDs).
  • To identify specific VEGFR-TKIs and TSDs with significant correlations using adverse event reporting data.

Main Methods:

  • Downloaded adverse event reports for VEGFR-TKIs from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).
  • Utilized disproportionality analysis to assess the correlation between VEGFR-TKIs and TSDs.
  • Employed Standardized Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) Queries (SMQs) for detailed AE analysis.

Main Results:

  • A statistically significant correlation was found between VEGFR-TKIs and TSDs, including cabozantinib, axitinib, pazopanib, sunitinib, nintedanib, and lenvatinib.
  • Cabozantinib showed the highest number of reports and strongest association with TSDs, particularly ageusia, taste disorder, parosmia, and anosmia.
  • Dysgeusia, taste disorder, and ageusia were the most frequently reported TSDs, constituting over 90% of cases.

Conclusions:

  • VEGFR-TKIs are associated with an increased risk of developing taste and smell disorders in cancer patients.
  • Clinical monitoring for TSDs in patients receiving VEGFR-TKIs is crucial.
  • Prompt management strategies for VEGFR-TKI-induced TSDs are necessary to improve patient care and adherence.
Keywords:
Adverse eventsCabozantinibSmell disordersTaste disordersVEGFR-TKI

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