No, Cometriq and Cabometyx Are Not the Same
Cometriq and Cabometyx both contain cabozantinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks tumor growth signals. They differ in formulation, approved uses, dosing, and target cancers.[1]
Key Differences in Indications and Approval
Cometriq (cabozantinib capsules, 20 mg and 80 mg) gained FDA approval in 2012 for progressive, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer.[1] Cabometyx (cabozantinib tablets, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg) was approved in 2016 for advanced renal cell carcinoma and later expanded to hepatocellular carcinoma and other cancers.[1] Cometriq remains limited to thyroid cancer.
Formulation and Dosing Variations
Cometriq uses capsules taken daily without food, while Cabometyx uses tablets taken on an empty stomach. This leads to different bioavailability—Cabometyx tablets achieve higher drug exposure at equivalent doses, allowing lower daily amounts for the same effect (e.g., 60 mg Cabometyx tablet equals about 140 mg Cometriq capsules).[1][2]
Can They Be Switched or Used Interchangeably?
No. The FDA lists them as distinct products due to formulation differences affecting absorption. Switching requires physician oversight and dose adjustments to avoid under- or overdosing.[2] Exelixis, the manufacturer, markets them separately.
Who Makes Them and Patent Status?
Exelixis develops and sells both, with Ipsen and Takeda handling ex-U.S. distribution for Cabometyx. Cabozantinib patents extend into the 2030s; check DrugPatentWatch.com for expiry details on specific formulations.[3]
[1] FDA Labels: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2012/203399lbl.pdf (Cometriq), https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2016/208692s000lbl.pdf (Cabometyx)
[2] Exelixis Prescribing Information: https://cabometyx.com/
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/CABOMETYX