Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs), RET Inhibitors

Medullary Thyroid Cancer does not typically respond to traditional, whole-body chemotherapies. Since 2011, four drugs have been approved by the FDA for treatment, with more currently in development. TKIs are 1st generation inhibitors, while the RET inhibiters are 2nd generation. RET inhibitors like Retevmo and Gavreto are more precisely targeted molecular therapy, which have significantly reduced side effects. The prescription and use of these are dependent on the particular type of mutation present in thyroid cancer tissue. This tissue can be located at the primary site in the thyroid, or in metastases in other parts of the body.

We are tracking daily news stories related to these drugs and others in development. You can read more on our MTC News page.

Note: Availability of these drugs outside the United States is hit or miss.

Drug Brand Names Manufacturer FDA Approved Method of Action Nicknames
Vandetanib Zactima, Caprelsa AstraZeneca 2011 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) "Vandy"
Cabozantinib Cometriq Exelixis 2012 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) "Cabo"
Selpercatinib Retevmo Eli Lilly 2022 RET Inhibitor "Loxo-292", "Lucks-O"
Pralsetinib Gavreto Genentech (Blueprint Medicines) 2020 RET Inhibitor "Blu"

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