| Common Brands | Zykadia |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
ALK (Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase) Inhibitors |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Ceritinib, sold under the brand name Zykadia, is a medication approved for use in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) among patients whose tumors have specific genetic alterations. The drug belongs to the class of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and inhibits cancer cells’ proliferation through interference with the activity of abnormal proteins driving the growth of a tumor.
This is primarily given for patients whose disease progressed, or patients already diagnosed with a rearrangement in the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene, have a rare type of gene mutation that increases the risk for developing this lung cancer.
It is an orally administered medication found to be highly effective in NSCLC harbouring ALK mutations. With metastatic disease, ceritinib is seen as a further option for limited alternatives for those patients.
Ceritinib should be administered orally through capsules and is supposed to be taken once daily with food for the enhancement of its absorption and reduction in gastrointestinal irritation. Capsules should not be opened, crushed, or chewed as this might alter the effectiveness of the drug.
Patients should be instructed about the dosage given by their physician and monitored on a regular basis to ensure efficacy and monitor potential side effects of the drug. In case a dose is skipped, the patient should not administer two doses simultaneously but continue to follow the established dosing regimen.
It is worth noting that ceritinib can cause nausea and vomiting, which can be controlled with anti-nausea medications or dose adjustments. If a patient continues to experience symptoms, they should contact their healthcare provider.
Ceritinib works by targeting and inhibiting the ALK protein that is formed as a result of genetic mutations in certain types of cancer, including NSCLC. In patients with NSCLC and ALK gene rearrangements, this abnormal ALK protein leads to the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.
Ceritinib is an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase. It binds to the active site of the abnormal ALK protein and inhibits its function. With this, the signals received that promote the growth of the cancer cells are stopped, hence reducing the size of the tumor and slowing the cancerous processes. Ceritinib has been recognized for its ability to target only the mutated ALK proteins without interfering with normal healthy cells.
Side effects of Ceritinib vary, and it can cause quite severe side effects. Common ones include:
Severe side effects are infrequent, but may include:
Liver toxicity: In some patients, there can be an elevation of liver enzymes or even failure of the liver. The liver function needs to be monitored frequently.
Lung problems: Some patients experience pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial lung disease (ILD), which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Heart problems: Ceritinib causes QT prolongation, an abnormal heart rhythm, which may lead to severe heart problems.
Severe gastrointestinal symptoms: Some patients will experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that may need medical attention.
The patient should inform the health care provider immediately concerning any strange or severe side effects, especially those concerning liver function and lung symptoms or heart problems.
There are several important warnings and precautions concerning ceritinib.
Liver toxicity: Patients with pre-existing liver disease or abnormal liver function should be treated with caution. All the treatment periods require monitoring of the liver functions
.
Lung problems: Ceritinib may cause ILD or other severe lung conditions. The prescribing physician should monitor patients for signs of lung problems, including coughing, shortness of breath, and fever.
Heart problems: Ceritinib may cause QT prolongation, thereby increasing the chances of abnormal heart rhythms. ECGs should be conducted before and during treatment to monitor heart function.
Pregnancy: Ceritinib can cause harm to an unborn baby, and it should not be used in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. Pregnant women or those who are planning to become pregnant should discuss the risks and benefits of ceritinib with their doctor.
Drug Interactions: Ceritinib interacts with drugs that impact the liver enzyme (CYP3A4). So one should be very cautious when administered together with other medications.
The recommended initial dose of Ceritinib is 750 mg orally once daily with food. Ceritinib should be administered at the same time every day. It should not be split, chewed, or crushed. The dose can be adjusted based on the patient’s tolerance to the drug and side effects experienced. If a dose is missed, one should take the drug as soon as possible; however, if it is almost time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose.
Ceritinib can interact with several other drugs. Some of the most important interactions include:
CYP3A4 inhibitors: Drugs that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and some HIV drugs, increase the levels of ceritinib in the blood, thereby increasing the risk of side effects.
CYP3A4 inducers: Drugs that induce CYP3A4, such as rifampin and carbamazepine, decrease the levels of ceritinib, thus reducing its effectiveness.
Antacids: Patients need to ensure taking this medicine at least 2 hours after the consumption of antacid because these interactions decrease absorption.
They have to mention the health provider regarding every other drug to be avoided. Otherwise, adverse interaction would likely be occurring within them.
The common dosage for the beginning treatment is taken orally 750 mg once per day with the consumption of food. The amount to be prescribed to a patient depends on response and tolerance from the drug, as in extreme side effects cases the physician prescribes lower amounts to a patient.
In some instances, ceritinib may be stopped or discontinued when serious side effects are experienced. Patients should heed the instructions given by their health care provider and visit them frequently to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and any adverse reactions.
Ceritinib is a prescription drug. The drug is only available upon a doctor’s prescription. The patient will be assessed for the suitability of ceritinib based on various factors like the presence of ALK gene rearrangements, the stage of cancer, and the overall health of the patient. Regular follow-up monitoring is also required for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Answer: Ceritinib is an oral prescription medication used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is ALK-positive (anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive).
Answer: It is used for advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with abnormal ALK gene mutations.
Answer: Ceritinib is an ALK inhibitor that blocks signals from the abnormal ALK gene, slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Answer: The brand name of Ceritinib is Zykadia.
Answer: No, it is not traditional chemotherapy—it is a targeted therapy that specifically attacks cancer cells with ALK gene mutations.
Answer: Ceritinib is taken by mouth, typically once daily, with food, as directed by a healthcare provider.
Answer: Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, and liver enzyme elevations.
Answer: Yes, patients must test positive for the ALK gene rearrangement before starting Ceritinib.
Answer: Yes, it is recommended to take Ceritinib with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach issues.
Answer: Yes, Ceritinib can interact with drugs that affect CYP3A enzymes, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and anti-seizure medications.
Answer: Ceritinib is taken as long as it is effective and tolerated or until the cancer progresses or unacceptable side effects occur.
Answer: Some patients may begin seeing benefits within a few weeks, but response times vary depending on the individual.
Answer: Yes, Ceritinib may be used in patients who have previously received another ALK inhibitor like crizotinib.
Answer: No, Ceritinib is currently approved only for adult patients.
Answer: No, Ceritinib is not classified as a controlled substance.
Answer: Regular monitoring of liver function, blood sugar, heart rhythm (ECG), and lung symptoms is required.
Answer: Yes, serious risks include liver toxicity, QT prolongation, severe diarrhea, and lung inflammation (interstitial lung disease).
Answer: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next dose. Do not double-dose.
Answer: As of now, Ceritinib is only available as the brand name Zykadia in many countries, but check locally for generic availability.
Answer: Ceritinib (Zykadia) is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
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