Alectinib
Alecensaro
Alecensaro (alectinib) is a capsule for adults with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It functions as a protein kinase inhibitor, specifically blocking the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) that promotes cancer growth in certain patients. Prescribed mainly for inoperable, advanced, or metastatic cases, Alecensaro is crucial when other treatments fail. It comes in a capsule form, typically taken at a dose of 600 milligrams twice daily, amounting to 1200 mg per day. Alecensaro’s mechanism involves halting cancer cell division and growth, offering a pivotal management option for specific genetic alterations of NSCLC. So, if you want to buy Alecensaro online, get a valid prescription from your doctor.
Product Overview
Alecensaro (alectinib) is a potent medication classified under protein kinase inhibitors, used primarily to treat ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults. This drug targets and blocks the enzyme anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), which in some patients can mutate and lead to the development of NSCLC. By inhibiting ALK, Alecensaro effectively impedes the growth and division of cancer cells, thus slowing or potentially halting the disease’s progression. The medication comes in capsule form and is available in strength of 150 mg, with the standard dosage being 600 mg taken twice daily — four capsules per dose, totaling 1200 mg per day.
Taking Alecensaro involves swallowing the capsules whole with food, ensuring consistent daily administration to maintain effective drug levels in the bloodstream. While effective, this medication can cause side effects ranging from mild, such as constipation and headaches, to more severe issues like muscle pain and serious liver problems. It can also lead to uncommon but severe complications such as hemolytic anemia and gastrointestinal perforation, underscoring the need for careful monitoring & management of the treatment.
Patients must discuss their complete medical history with healthcare providers before starting Alecensaro, particularly if they have pre-existing conditions like heart disease or liver problems, as these can affect and be affected by the treatment. Interactions with other drugs, certain foods like grapefruit, and even herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort can alter Alecensaro’s effectiveness and safety, necessitating thorough discussion and planning around the use of other medications and diet during treatment.
What Are the Uses of Alecensaro?
Alecensaro is prescribed for the following purposes in adult patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):
- Treating cases that are locally advanced (inoperable or incurable with chemotherapy or radiation) or metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) and have not responded to or cannot tolerate crizotinib.
- Managing the disease post-surgery to remove the tumor.
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Alecensaro?
Alecensaro is offered in a capsule form and available in:
- 150 mg
What Is the Recommended Dosage of Alecensaro?
Usual Alecensaro Dosage for Patients with ALK-Positive NSCLC
- The standard dose of Alecensaro is 600 mg, taken twice daily. This means taking 4 capsules each time, for a total of 8 capsules or 1200 mg per day.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Take Alecensaro Capsules?
When you buy Alecensaro online from Canada, you should consider the following consumption guidelines:
- Always take Alecensaro exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. If unsure, confirm with your healthcare professional.
- Take Alecensaro orally. Swallow each capsule whole without opening or dissolving them.
- It’s important to take Alecensaro with food.
- Take your medication at the same time each day to maintain constant levels in your bloodstream.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Alecensaro Work?
Alecensaro is classified as a kinase inhibitor, specifically targeting an enzyme known as anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). In some cancer patients, ALK can undergo genetic changes that promote the development of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Alecensaro intervenes by blocking the activity of ALK, thus inhibiting the growth & division of cancer cells. This action helps to slow or halt the progression of NSCLC in patients with these specific genetic alterations, making it a pivotal treatment in managing this form of lung cancer.
Important Safety Information for Using Alecensaro
What Are the Side Effects of Alecensaro?
Common Alecensaro Side Effects: Like any medication, Alecensaro also causes some common side effects, which include:
- Constipation: Patients taking Alecensaro Capsules may experience constipation, a condition characterized by unusual bowel movements or difficult passage of stools. This side effect occurs because the medication can slow down gastrointestinal motility, leading to delayed stool passage.
- Diarrhea: On the flip side, Alecensaro can also cause diarrhea. This occurs as the medication affects the absorption and secretion processes within the intestines, leading to more frequent and looser bowel movements. This can also be a result of the body’s response to the drug as it adjusts to the treatment.
- Vomiting: Vomiting may occur as a direct effect of nausea caused by Alecensaro Capsules. It can also be a reflex reaction of the stomach to the medication, as the body attempts to expel substances that irritate the stomach.
- Weight Gain: Patients may notice an increase in their body weight. This may occur due to changes in metabolism or other bodily functions affected by Alecensaro.
- Headache: A frequent and often bothersome side effect is the occurrence of headaches. These may range from mild to very serious and might persist as long as the medication is being taken.
- Dizziness: Dizziness is another common side effect that can affect your balance & make you feel unsteady or light-headed, especially when rising quickly from a sitting or lying position.
- Problems with Your Eyes: This medication can lead to several eye-related issues, such as blurred vision, loss of sight, the appearance of white spots or black dots in your vision, and seeing double. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to consult their healthcare provider.
- Dry Skin: This is another common issue that might result in flakiness, itchiness, or cracking. It is important to stay hydrated and use moisturizers to help manage this condition.
- Rash: Skin rashes can appear as an allergic reaction to the medication, presenting as red, itchy, or inflamed skin.
- Hair Loss: Patients may experience hair thinning or significant hair loss, which is a distressing side effect for many.
- Itching: Itching without a visible rash may also occur, which can be persistent and uncomfortable.
- Numbness and Tingling in the Hands and Feet: Patients taking Alecensaro Capsules may experience sensations of numbness and tingling, medically referred to as peripheral neuropathy. This condition arises when the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are affected. The sensations can range from mild prickling to more severe burning and can affect daily activities that require fine motor skills.
- Muscle Ache and Pain: Alecensaro Capsules can cause muscle pain, which may present as a persistent ache or a sensation of soreness that affects various muscle groups. This side effect can interfere with physical activity and decrease mobility, affecting the patient’s overall quality of life.
- Joint Pain: Joint pain or arthralgia is another common side effect experienced by users of Alecensaro Capsules. This condition involves discomfort, aching, or soreness in the joints that can vary in severity. It can be challenging for patients as it affects the joints’ mobility and functionality, potentially leading to stiffness and reduced range of motion.
Serious Alecensaro Side Effects: When you buy Alecensaro for lung cancer online, consider the following serious side effects associated with this medication:
- Hemolytic Anemia: This condition involves the breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs), leading to symptoms such as pale skin, weakness or tiredness, dizziness, thirst, and rapid breathing. Hemolytic anemia is a serious complication that may require temporary discontinuation of Alecensaro, blood testing, and possible adjustment of the medication dosage or cessation of treatment depending on the patient’s response.
- Inflammation of the Mouth: Known medically as oral mucositis, this condition involves swelling, redness, and pain in the mouth’s mucous membranes. It can lead to soreness, ulcers, and difficulty eating or swallowing. This side effect occurs because Alecensaro can affect rapidly dividing cells, which include those in the mucous membranes.
- Abnormal or Metallic Taste in the Mouth: Some patients report experiencing a peculiar or metallic taste in their mouth while on Alecensaro treatment. This is thought to be due to the way the drug interacts with the taste receptors or saliva production, altering taste perception.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Alecensaro?
Before starting treatment with Alecensaro capsules, it is critical to inform your doctor or healthcare provider about your medical history, including any current medical conditions or allergies. This medication has several warnings, which include:
- Heart Disease: Alecensaro (alectinib) has been associated with a decrease in heart rate. Suppose you suffer from heart conditions characterized by a low heart rate, such as specific types of arrhythmias, sick sinus syndrome, congestive heart failure, or certain forms of heart block. In that case, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. You should also consider how Alecensaro (alectinib) might impact your condition and how your condition could potentially affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication. Also, you should determine if any special monitoring is required. So, when you notice symptoms indicative of a slow heartbeat—such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting—it is important to inform your doctor immediately.
- Gastrointestinal Perforation: Although rare, some individuals taking Alecensaro (alectinib) may develop a gastrointestinal perforation. This serious complication involves the formation of a hole in the digestive tract walls and constitutes a medical emergency. If you have risk factors for gastrointestinal perforation, such as a history of diverticulitis, cancer that has metastasized to the digestive tract, or concurrent use of medications known to cause this issue, a discussion with your doctor is necessary.
- Kidney Function Impairment: Alecensaro (alectinib) can potentially reduce kidney function, which can cause various symptoms indicating renal distress. If you notice any changes in the volume or color of your urine, an increase in the frequency of urination at night, the presence of blood in the urine, or swelling in your feet or legs, it’s critical to consult your doctor quickly. These signs could indicate kidney problems, necessitating immediate medical attention to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
- Liver Disease: Individuals with existing liver conditions or compromised liver function might experience an accumulation of Alecensaro in their body, leading to adverse side effects. It is essential to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider about how Alecensaro (alectinib) might influence your liver condition and vice versa. This discussion should cover the impact on dosing, drug effectiveness, and the necessity for any special monitoring procedures. Alecensaro (alectinib) may also pose risks to liver health. Symptoms of liver distress, including fatigue, general malaise, loss of appetite, nausea, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), dark-colored urine, abdominal pain or swelling, pale stools, and itchy skin, require immediate medical intervention.
- Risk of Lung Inflammation: Some patients on Alecensaro (alectinib) have developed lung inflammation (interstitial lung disease), a potentially severe and even fatal complication. Symptoms such as new or worsening breath shortness or a persistent cough—with or without a fever—should be reported to your doctor immediately. Early detection & treatment are crucial to managing this side effect, which could significantly impact lung function and overall health.
- Muscle Damage: Alecensaro has been linked to muscle damage, which can manifest in several ways. If you experience any unexplained tenderness, muscle pain, or weakness, it’s important to take these symptoms seriously. Additionally, muscle cramps can occur, and if you notice your urine becoming brown or discolored, these could be signs of severe muscle issues. These symptoms are particularly concerning if accompanied by malaise—a general feeling of being unwell—or fever. It is crucial to report these symptoms to your doctor quickly to prevent further complications.
- Sensitivity to Sunlight: Taking Alecensaro may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing your sunburn risk. To manage this risk, limiting your exposure to sunlight is advisable, especially during peak sunlight hours from 10 am-2 pm. Continue these precautions during your treatment and for seven days after it ends. To protect your skin, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen & a lip balm with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 50 or higher. Contact your doctor immediately when you experience any unusual skin reactions, such as rash or peeling. These could indicate a serious reaction to sunlight exacerbated by Alecensaro.
What Are the Alecensaro Precautions?
If you plan to buy Alecensaro online from Canada, you should consider the following precautionary guidelines:
- Lactose Intolerance: Alecensaro contains lactose. If you have a known intolerance to lactose, you should discuss potential alternatives or solutions with your healthcare provider to avoid adverse reactions.
- Age Considerations: Alecensaro’s effects on individuals under 18 years of age are not well-studied. Therefore, its use in this age group is not recommended until more information is available. If you are 75 years of age or older, be aware that you may be at an increased risk of experiencing side effects. Monitoring and adjustments in dosage may be necessary based on your health status.
- Concurrent Medications: Exercise caution if you are taking medications that affect your blood pressure or heart rate. Alecensaro may interact with these drugs, potentially requiring adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Pregnancy and Contraception: Alecensaro can cause harm to an unborn baby. Therefore, if you are pregnant, it is highly advised to avoid taking this medication. Plus, women of childbearing potential must use effective birth control during their treatment with Alecensaro and for at least three months following the cessation of treatment. Discuss with your healthcare provider or doctor to choose the suitable birth control method for you.
- Breastfeeding: The transfer of Alecensaro into breast milk has not been established. If you are breastfeeding and taking Alecensaro, there is a potential risk to your infant. It is important to discuss with your doctor whether you should continue breastfeeding while on this medication.
- Driving and Operating Machinery: Alecensaro may impair your ability to operate vehicles or machinery safely. Side effects such as dizziness, weakness, fatigue, or visual disturbances may occur during treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should avoid driving or operating machinery until you have consulted with your healthcare provider.
What Are the Contraindications of Alecensaro?
Alecensaro should not be used by individuals who have a known allergy to Alectinib or to any of the other components found in this medication. If you have experienced allergic reactions to alectinib or any ingredient in this drug, it is advised that you avoid taking it to prevent serious hypersensitivity reactions.
What If You Miss a Dose of Alecensaro?
If you miss a dose of Alecensaro due to a busy schedule or other reasons, it’s important to take action as follows:
- Check how much time has passed since the missed Alecensaro dose. Take it as soon as possible. If it’s close to your following scheduled dose timing, skip the missed dose.
- Never take a double dose to make up for the one you missed. This may lead to an increased chance of side effects and other complications.
- Continue with your next dose at regular intervals to keep your treatment on track.
- To help prevent future missed doses, consider setting reminders on your phone or other devices.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Alecensaro?
If you suspect that you or someone has taken excessive Alecensaro, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Contact a healthcare professional, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call your regional Poison Control Center right away, regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away, or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store Alecensaro?
Following are the storage guidelines for Alecensaro capsules:
- Maintain the temperature for storing Alecensaro capsules within 15-30°C (59-86°F) to ensure the medication remains effective until expiration.
- Always store the capsules in their original packaging. This is crucial as it protects them from exposure to light & moisture, which may degrade the active ingredients.
- Keep the Alecensaro capsules out of reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion, which could be harmful.
- Check the expiration date on the bottle label, which is noted after “EXP.” Only use the capsules until the last day of the month, as indicated. Using the medicine past this date can be risky as it may have lost its potency or could be unsafe.
- Do not discard unused capsules in the garbage, toilet, or down the drain, as this practice can harm the environment.
- For safe disposal of no longer needed medicines, consult with your pharmacist. They can provide you with the safest methods to dispose of the medicine, which helps protect the environment and prevents potential misuse.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Alecensaro?
There may be an interaction between Alecensaro and any of the following:
- Amiodarone: Both Alectinib and Amiodarone can cause QT prolongation. When taken together, there may be an increased risk of developing arrhythmias. Regular cardiac monitoring is advised when these drugs are used concurrently.
- Beta-Adrenergic Blockers (e.g., Atenolol, Propranolol, Sotalol): Alectinib may increase the blood levels and effects of beta-adrenergic blockers. This interaction could enhance the risk of bradycardia, hypotension, and heart block. Monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure is recommended.
- Clonidine: Alectinib may enhance the hypotensive effect of Clonidine. Patients should be monitored for low blood pressure (hypotension) and dizziness symptoms.
- Dabigatran: Alectinib may increase the anticoagulant effect of Dabigatran, thereby increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring for signs of bleeding is necessary.
- Digoxin: There could be an increase in the plasma concentration of Digoxin when used with Alectinib, potentially leading to toxicity. Regular monitoring of digoxin levels is advised.
- Diltiazem: This drug can increase the concentration of Alectinib by inhibiting its metabolism, which may enhance both its therapeutic effects and side effect risk. Monitoring for Alectinib toxicity is recommended.
- Donepezil: Concurrent use may increase plasma concentrations of Donepezil, increasing the risk of its side effects, such as QT prolongation and bradycardia. Monitoring is advised.
- Dronedarone: Both drugs are known to prolong QT interval, and their combined use might further increase this risk. Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is suggested.
- Fingolimod: Fingolimod’s immunosuppressive effects may be increased with the concurrent use of Alectinib, increasing the risk of infections. Patient monitoring for signs of infection is recommended.
- Galantamine: Increased plasma concentrations of Galantamine when taken with Alectinib might increase the likelihood of its cholinergic side effects. Dose adjustment may be needed.
- Guanfacine: Alectinib may enhance the blood-pressure-lowering effect of Guanfacine. This can increase the risk of hypotension and dizziness.
- Ivabradine: Concurrent use might increase the risk of bradycardia. Monitoring heart rate is advised when both medications are used.
- Lacosamide: Alectinib could potentially increase the concentration of Lacosamide, increasing the risk of its side effects, such as dizziness and syncope.
- Lanreotide: Lanreotide may alter the absorption or metabolism of Alectinib, influencing its efficacy and toxicity.
- Methotrexate: Alectinib could potentially increase the toxicity of Methotrexate by reducing its excretion. Monitoring for Methotrexate toxicity is advised.
- Methyldopa: Alectinib might enhance the blood-pressure-lowering effects of Methyldopa, increasing the risk of hypotension.
- Pasireotide: As with other somatostatin analogs, Pasireotide could modify the metabolic profile of Alectinib, affecting its effectiveness and side effects.
- Propafenone: Propafenone may slow down the metabolism of Alectinib, potentially increasing its effects and side effects.
- Rivastigmine: Alectinib could increase the concentration of Rivastigmine, possibly enhancing its effects and toxicity.
- Ruxolitinib: Co-administration might alter the effectiveness and toxicity profile of Ruxolitinib through pharmacokinetic interactions.
- Sufentanil: Alectinib may enhance the effects of Sufentanil, particularly its central nervous system depressant effects.
- Tizanidine: Alectinib could increase the plasma concentration of Tizanidine, increasing the risk of its side effects, such as hypotension and sedation.
- Tofacitinib: Alectinib may increase the plasma levels of Tofacitinib, potentially leading to an increased risk of adverse effects.
- Verapamil: This drug can inhibit the metabolism of Alectinib, potentially leading to increased Alectinib plasma levels and toxicity.
What Are the Other Alecensaro Interactions?
Apart from medication interactions, Alecensaro can also interact with the following:
- St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement is commonly used to treat depression but can significantly affect the efficacy of Alecensaro. St. John’s wort is an inducer of CYP3A4, an enzyme that plays an important role in drug metabolism. Using it while on Alecensaro can decrease alectinib plasma concentrations significantly, reducing its effectiveness and altering the levels of its metabolite M4. Therefore, it’s advised to avoid taking St. John’s wort with Alecensaro.
- Grapefruit, Grapefruit Juice, and Other Citrus Fruits: Grapefruit, as well as similar fruits like starfruit, pomegranate, and Seville oranges, are known to interfere with enzymes that metabolize medications. Consuming these fruits or their juices while taking alectinib can lead to increased medication levels in the body, possibly leading to severe side effects. It’s best to avoid these fruits to maintain safe drug levels.
- Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interact with many medications, and while specific interactions with Alecensaro are not extensively documented, it is generally wise to limit or avoid alcohol intake. Alcohol can affect liver function, which is crucial for metabolizing drugs like Alecensaro, and may exacerbate side effects or reduce drug efficacy.
- Vitamin Supplements: While most common vitamins typically do not directly interfere with Alecensaro, it’s important to discuss all supplements with your healthcare provider. Some vitamins might affect liver enzymes or have unexpected interactions with cancer therapies.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Alecensaro. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Alecensaro Alternatives?
Alecensaro, known for its effectiveness in certain cases, might not be suitable for everyone due to potential side effects, cost, or availability. In such instances, considering alternative medications can be vital. Here are some common Alecensaro alternatives:
- Tagrisso (osimertinib)
- Alimta (pemetrexed)
- Avastin (bevacizumab)
- Opdivo (nivolumab)
- Keytruda (pembrolizumab)
- Imfinzi (durvalumab)
- Xalkori (crizotinib)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Alecensaro Cost & Coupons
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the indication of Alecensaro?
Alecensaro (alectinib) is specifically approved for use as a single-agent therapy for treating individuals diagnosed with ALK-positive, NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) that is either locally advanced and not suitable for curative treatment or metastatic. This medication is particularly prescribed for patients who have either not responded to or cannot tolerate crizotinib, providing an alternative for those needing ongoing management of their lung cancer.
How long can you take Alecensaro?
This medication is generally continued until the cancer shows signs of progression or the patient experiences side effects that are too severe to manage. This ensures that the medication is used as long as it is effective and tolerable for the patient.
Is ALK curable?
ALK-positive lung cancer is not considered curable but can be effectively managed with targeted medications like Alecensaro. This medication specifically targets the abnormal protein produced by the ALK gene mutation, which is often responsible for the development of this type of cancer. By focusing on this mutation, Alecensaro can help control the growth & spread of cancer cells, leading to prolonged survival and a better quality of life for patients.
Does alectinib cause constipation?
Yes, alectinib can cause constipation as a side effect. While effective in its therapeutic role, alectinib can disrupt normal gastrointestinal function, leading to constipation, among other potential side effects. If you’re experiencing constipation while on alectinib, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider, as they can recommend appropriate measures to manage this condition, such as dietary adjustments, hydration, or possibly medication to alleviate the discomfort.
Is Alecensaro better than Xalkori?
Yes. Alecensaro is frequently favored over Xalkori as a first-line treatment for several reasons, most notably its higher efficacy in clinical outcomes and its reduced incidence of central nervous system side effects. This preference is grounded in comparative studies and clinical trials where Alecensaro demonstrated superior effectiveness in managing symptoms and progression of disease conditions that both medications aim to treat.
Does alectinib shrink tumors?
Yes, alectinib is used to treat patients with tumors that are caused by changes in the ALK gene and who have not responded to the ALK inhibitor crizotinib, also known as Xalkori. In two early-stage clinical trials, alectinib has effectively reduced the size of tumors in these patients, showing its potential as a useful treatment for those who do not benefit from crizotinib.
Does Alecensaro cause hair loss?
No, hair loss is not listed as a side effect of Alecensaro (alectinib), based on data from clinical trials. If you start experiencing hair loss after beginning this medication, it’s important to consult your doctor.
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