Telotristat Ethyl

Malignant Carcinoid Syndrome, Diarrhea

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

NA

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Controlled Drug Substance

No

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Drug Ingredient

Telotristat Ethyl

Summary

  • Telotristat Ethyl is used to treat diarrhea caused by a condition called carcinoid syndrome in adults whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by another treatment called somatostatin analog therapy.

  • Telotristat Ethyl works by blocking an enzyme involved in serotonin production, called tryptophan hydroxylase. By reducing serotonin levels, it helps decrease the frequency of bowel movements in patients with carcinoid syndrome diarrhea.

  • The usual daily dose for adults is 250 mg taken three times a day with food. It's important to take the medication at the same times each day for optimal effectiveness.

  • Common side effects of Telotristat Ethyl include nausea, headache, depression, and decreased appetite. Serious adverse effects include severe constipation and abdominal pain.

  • Telotristat Ethyl can cause constipation which may be severe. If severe constipation or abdominal pain occurs, discontinue use and seek medical attention. It should be used with caution in patients with liver disease and those taking short-acting octreotide.

Indications and Purpose

How does Telotristat Ethyl work?

Telotristat Ethyl works by inhibiting tryptophan hydroxylase, an enzyme involved in serotonin production. By reducing serotonin levels, it decreases the frequency of bowel movements in patients with carcinoid syndrome diarrhea.

Is Telotristat Ethyl effective?

Telotristat Ethyl has been shown to effectively reduce the frequency of bowel movements in patients with carcinoid syndrome diarrhea. In clinical trials, patients taking Telotristat Ethyl experienced a significant reduction in bowel movements compared to those taking a placebo.

What is Telotristat Ethyl?

Telotristat Ethyl is used to treat diarrhea caused by carcinoid syndrome in adults whose symptoms are not controlled by somatostatin analog therapy alone. It works by inhibiting tryptophan hydroxylase, reducing serotonin production, which helps decrease bowel movement frequency.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Telotristat Ethyl?

Telotristat Ethyl is typically used as long as it is needed to control symptoms of carcinoid syndrome diarrhea, in combination with somatostatin analog therapy. The duration of use should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual patient needs.

How do I take Telotristat Ethyl?

Telotristat Ethyl should be taken with food three times a day. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is important to take the medication at the same times each day for optimal effectiveness.

How long does it take for Telotristat Ethyl to start working?

In clinical studies, a reduction in bowel movement frequency was observed as early as 1 to 3 weeks after starting Telotristat Ethyl. However, individual response times may vary.

How should I store Telotristat Ethyl?

Store Telotristat Ethyl at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom.

What is the usual dose of Telotristat Ethyl?

The usual daily dose for adults is 250 mg taken three times a day with food. The safety and effectiveness of Telotristat Ethyl in children have not been established.

Warnings and Precautions

Can I take Telotristat Ethyl with other prescription drugs?

Telotristat Ethyl may decrease the efficacy of drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates, such as midazolam, by decreasing their systemic exposure. It also interacts with short-acting octreotide, which should be administered at least 30 minutes after Telotristat Ethyl.

Can Telotristat Ethyl be taken safely while breastfeeding?

There is no data on the presence of Telotristat Ethyl in human or animal milk. The effects on the breastfed infant are unknown. Breastfeeding mothers should consider the benefits of breastfeeding along with the need for Telotristat Ethyl and consult their doctor.

Can Telotristat Ethyl be taken safely while pregnant?

There are no human data on the use of Telotristat Ethyl during pregnancy to inform a drug-associated risk. Animal studies showed some adverse effects at high doses. Pregnant women should use Telotristat Ethyl only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

Is Telotristat Ethyl safe for the elderly?

In clinical trials, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly patients and younger patients. However, greater sensitivity in some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Elderly patients should use Telotristat Ethyl under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Who should avoid taking Telotristat Ethyl?

Telotristat Ethyl can cause constipation, which may be severe. Patients should discontinue use if severe constipation or abdominal pain occurs. It should be used with caution in patients with liver disease and those taking short-acting octreotide.