Alectinib
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Kinase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Alectinib
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Alectinib is used to treat a type of lung cancer known as ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body. It's also used after tumor removal to prevent cancer recurrence in patients with ALK-positive NSCLC.
Alectinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It blocks the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps to slow or stop the spread of cancer cells.
The usual daily dose for adults is 600 mg taken orally twice daily with food. It's not recommended for children as its safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Common side effects include constipation, fatigue, muscle pain, swelling, rash, and cough. Serious adverse effects include liver problems, lung inflammation, kidney issues, slow heart rate, and a type of anemia where your body destroys too many red blood cells.
Alectinib may cause liver problems, lung inflammation, kidney issues, slow heart rate, muscle pain, and a type of anemia. These conditions should be monitored and treatment may need to be adjusted if they occur. There are no specific contraindications listed, but you should inform your doctor of any allergies or medical conditions.
Indications and Purpose
What is Alectinib used for?
Alectinib is indicated for the treatment of ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also used as adjuvant treatment following tumor resection in patients with ALK-positive NSCLC to help prevent cancer recurrence.
How does Alectinib work?
Alectinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets ALK and RET. It inhibits ALK phosphorylation and ALK-mediated activation of downstream signaling proteins, reducing tumor cell viability. This action helps slow or stop the spread of cancer cells in patients with ALK-positive NSCLC.
Is Alectinib effective?
Alectinib has been shown to improve progression-free survival in patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared to crizotinib. Clinical trials demonstrated significant improvements in disease-free survival and overall response rates, supporting its effectiveness in treating this type of cancer.
How does one know if Alectinib is working?
The benefit of Alectinib is evaluated through regular medical appointments and laboratory tests. Doctors monitor liver function, heart rate, and other vital signs to assess the drug's effectiveness and manage any side effects. Patients should keep all appointments and report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Alectinib?
The usual daily dose for adults is 600 mg taken orally twice daily with food. The safety and effectiveness of Alectinib in children have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for pediatric patients.
How do I take Alectinib?
Alectinib should be taken orally with food, twice daily. Swallow the capsules whole without opening or dissolving them. There are no specific food restrictions, but patients should follow their doctor's advice regarding diet and report any unusual symptoms.
For how long do I take Alectinib?
Alectinib is typically used until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. For adjuvant treatment, it is used for a total of 2 years or until disease recurrence.
How long does it take for Alectinib to start working?
Alectinib reaches steady-state concentrations by day 7, indicating that it begins to work within the first week of treatment. However, the time to see clinical benefits may vary depending on individual patient factors and the progression of the disease.
How should I store Alectinib?
Store Alectinib in its original container at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Alectinib?
Important warnings for Alectinib include the risk of liver problems, lung inflammation, kidney issues, bradycardia, muscle pain, and hemolytic anemia. Patients should be monitored for these conditions, and treatment may need to be adjusted if they occur. There are no specific contraindications listed, but patients should inform their doctor of any allergies or medical conditions.
Can I take Alectinib with other prescription drugs?
Alectinib does not have significant interactions with strong CYP3A inhibitors or inducers, or acid-reducing agents. However, patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe use.
Can I take Alectinib with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Alectinib be taken safely while pregnant?
Alectinib can cause fetal harm based on animal studies. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 5 weeks after the last dose. Men with female partners of reproductive potential should use contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. There is no strong evidence from human studies, but caution is advised.
Can Alectinib be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Alectinib and for 1 week after the last dose due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children.
Is Alectinib safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience a higher incidence of serious adverse events and more frequent dose modifications. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider to manage any side effects and adjust treatment as necessary.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Alectinib?
Alectinib may cause fatigue and muscle pain, which could limit the ability to exercise. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to listen to your body and rest as needed. Consult your doctor for advice tailored to your condition.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Alectinib?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
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