ABSTRACT
This chapter presents classification & mode of action, indications & dermatological uses, formulations/presentation, dosages & suggested regimens, baseline investigations, considerations & monitoring, contraindications, cautions, important drug interactions, adverse effects & their management, use in special situations, and essential patient information of Vismodegib. Vismodegib is the first in a new class of orally active anticancer drugs that inhibit the hedgehog signalling pathway by binding to smoothened transmembrane protein and blocking induction of hedgehog target genes. Some basal cell carcinomas (BCC) continue to grow despite treatment with vismodegib and in other cases, there may be regrowth of the BCC after an initial clinical response. Animal studies have shown irreversible loss of fertility after treatment with vismodegib. Animal studies indicate a potential risk of short stature and tooth deformities in infants and children and vismodegib should not be given to those under the age of 18 years.
