About Alecensa: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects
Alecensa is a prescription medication used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has progressed to other areas of the body. Alecensa belongs to a class of medications known as multikinase inhibitors, which function by interfering with cancer cell development and dissemination.
Uses
Alecensa is only prescribed if your NSCLC contains a certain genetic marker (an faulty "ALK" gene). Before beginning therapy with Alecensa, your doctor will test you for this gene.
Alecensa is approved for two purposes:
As a first-line therapy for ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC. This means it can be used as the first line of defence against this form of cancer.
As a second-line treatment for ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC patients who have progressed or are intolerant of crizotinib. This means that it can be taken if another treatment has failed or has had too many negative effects.
Alecensa is intended to be taken twice day with food at a dose of 600 mg (four 150-mg capsules). Swallow the capsules whole, without crushing, chewing, dissolving, or opening them.
Dosage
Depending on your response and side effects, your doctor may alter your dosage. Do not adjust your dosage or discontinue Alecensa without first consulting your doctor.
If you forget to take your Alecensa, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less than 6 hours away, omit the missed dose and take the following dose at your regular time. To make up for a missing dose, do not take two doses at the same time.
Do not take another dose of Alecensa if you vomit after taking it. Take the medication again at your next planned dosing time.
Side Effects
Alecensa can have both minor and severe adverse effects. The following are the most common Alecensa side effects:
- Anaemia (inadequate red blood cell count)
- Constipation
- Face, eyelids, hands, or lower legs swelling
- Tiredness
- Muscle ache
Alecensa has a number of significant adverse effects, including:
- Hepatotoxicity (issues with the liver)
- Interstitial lung disease (lung issues)
- Kidney issues
- Bradycardia is characterised by a slow heart rate.
- Vision issues
- Hemolysis is the breakdown of healthy red blood cells.
- Rhabdomyolysis is a term used to describe severe muscle pain.
- Allergic reactivity
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
- Fever, chest pain, coughing, or difficulty breathing
- Upper stomach pain, black urine, loss of appetite, or skin or eye yellowing
- Extreme dizziness or extremely sluggish heartbeats
- A change in the colour of your urine, little or no urination, or swelling in your lower legs
- Vision blurred or diminished
- Dark or red urine, pale faeces, or skin or eye yellowing
- Muscle discomfort or weakness that is unbearable
Your doctor will keep an eye on you for these side effects by performing blood tests and monitoring your heart and vision on a regular basis. If any of these side effects occur, your doctor may reduce your dose or discontinue your Alecensa medication.
While taking Alecensa, you should avoid exposure to sunlight or sunlamps because it may make your skin more sensitive to sunburn. When going outside, use sunscreen and wear protective gear.
