Alecensa 150mg Capsule
Prescription Required
Marketer
Roche Products India Pvt Ltd
SALT COMPOSITION
Alectinib (150mg)
Storage
Store below 30°C
Product Introduction:
Alecensa 150mg Capsule contains Alectinib (150mg), a potent tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) primarily used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It specifically targets anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive NSCLC, which is a genetic mutation responsible for uncontrolled cell growth. Alecensa is prescribed for metastatic NSCLC patients who have either progressed on or are intolerant to crizotinib, another ALK inhibitor. This medication helps in slowing tumor progression and increasing survival rates. It is an oral prescription drug, taken under medical supervision, and requires regular monitoring of liver function, heart health, and blood parameters.
Key Composition & Ingredients:
-
Active Ingredient:
- Alectinib (150mg) – A selective ALK inhibitor used in ALK-positive NSCLC.
- Excipients: Lactose monohydrate, Magnesium stearate, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, Titanium dioxide, and Gelatin.
Uses of Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Treatment of ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- Used in advanced or metastatic stages where cancer has spread beyond the lungs.
- Helps in delaying disease progression and improving survival rates.
- Used when patients have developed resistance to other ALK inhibitors like Crizotinib.
- Effective in treating brain metastases due to its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier.
Benefits of Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Specifically targets ALK-positive NSCLC, improving treatment response.
- Prolongs progression-free survival compared to other ALK inhibitors.
- Reduces tumor size and delays metastasis.
- Penetrates the central nervous system, making it effective for brain metastases.
- Better tolerability profile than first-generation ALK inhibitors.
- Improves quality of life by reducing symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue.
How Alecensa 150mg Capsule Works:
Alecensa works by blocking ALK receptors, which are responsible for uncontrolled cancer cell growth. By inhibiting ALK, the drug stops tumor cells from multiplying, leading to slowed progression or shrinkage of cancerous tumors.
Mechanism of Action:
- Alectinib selectively inhibits ALK mutations, preventing the activation of cancer-promoting pathways.
- Stops tumor cells from dividing and spreading.
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier, making it effective against brain metastases.
- Reduces angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) that supports tumor growth.
Dosage of Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Standard Dose: 600mg (four 150mg capsules) twice daily with food.
- Missed Dose: Skip if the next dose is near; do not double dose.
- Overdose: Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like severe nausea, liver issues, or heart abnormalities.
Mode of Action:
- Inhibits ALK gene mutations, which drive cancer cell growth.
- Prevents cancer cell proliferation.
- Penetrates brain tissue, addressing brain metastases.
How to Use Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Take with food for better absorption.
- Swallow capsules whole with water; do not crush or chew.
- Follow your oncologist’s guidance strictly.
Directions for Use:
- Maintain a consistent daily schedule for best results.
- Do not stop abruptly unless directed by a doctor.
- Regular medical check-ups are crucial.
Side Effects of Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Common: Fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, muscle pain.
- Serious: Liver toxicity, lung inflammation, heart rate changes.
- Rare: Severe allergic reactions, eye disorders, kidney dysfunction.
Side Effects & How to Manage Them:
- Fatigue: Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated.
- Nausea: Eat small meals, avoid greasy foods.
- Liver toxicity: Regular liver function tests required.
Safety Advice:
- Avoid alcohol to prevent liver strain.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Strictly avoid due to fetal risks.
- Driving: May cause drowsiness; avoid operating heavy machinery.
- Kidney & Liver Disease: Dose adjustment may be needed.
Warnings & Precautions:
- Avoid grapefruit; it may interfere with drug metabolism.
- Do not take with strong CYP3A inducers like rifampicin.
- Monitor for heart rate abnormalities.
Interactions with Alecensa 150mg Capsule:
- Drug-Drug Interactions: Avoid CYP3A inducers and inhibitors.
- Drug-Food Interactions: Take with food for better absorption.
Contraindications:
- Severe liver disease.
- Allergic reactions to Alectinib.
- Severe lung inflammation.
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category:
- Category D – Risk to fetus; contraindicated in pregnancy.
Diet & Lifestyle Advice:
- Eat a protein-rich diet to maintain muscle mass.
- Exercise moderately but avoid excessive exertion.
- Stay hydrated to prevent kidney complications.
- Avoid grapefruit and St. John’s Wort.
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine?
- Highly effective for ALK-positive NSCLC.
- Superior CNS penetration, treating brain metastases.
- Better survival outcomes compared to first-generation ALK inhibitors.
Substitutes & Alternative Medicines:
- Crizotinib (Xalkori) – First-line ALK inhibitor.
- Brigatinib (Alunbrig) – Alternative ALK inhibitor.
Storage Guidelines:
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C).
- Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.
User Feedback & Patient Concerns:
- Many report improved survival rates and better quality of life.
- Side effects are manageable with supportive care.
Quick Tips:
- Take with food to reduce nausea.
- Stay hydrated and monitor liver function tests regularly.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Fact Box:
- Chemical Class: Kinase Inhibitor
- Therapeutic Class: Oncology
- Habit Forming: No
Useful Diagnostic Tests:
- ALK mutation test before starting treatment.
- Liver function tests every few weeks.
- EKG for heart rate monitoring.
More Information & References:
- Consult your oncologist or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Disclaimer
THE CONTENTS OF THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, OR PREVENTION OF A DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION. PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN FOR THE TREATMENT AND/OR MANAGEMENT OF ANY DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION WITHOUT DELAY.