Treatment Details for Tabrecta: Exploring Adverse Reactions, Pricing, Dosage, Applications, Potential Interactions, and Beyond
New Drug Tabrecta Offers Hope for Metastatic NSCLC Patients
Tabrecta, a brand-new prescription drug, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat a specific type of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults. This drug is designed to target a genetic mutation called METex14, making it a significant breakthrough in targeted cancer treatment [1][3].
For patients with NSCLC that has spread outside the lungs and is caused by METex14 mutations, Tabrecta can be an effective treatment option. Clinical trials have shown an overall response rate of about 68% in treatment-naïve patients and 41% in previously treated patients, supporting its use as a preferred first-line treatment for this molecular subtype of NSCLC [1][2].
Tabrecta, also known as capmatinib, works by inhibiting the MET receptor tyrosine kinase that is abnormally activated by MET exon 14 skipping mutations, which drive tumor growth. By blocking this action, Tabrecta helps to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells [1].
The drug comes as an oral tablet in two strengths: 150 milligrams and 200 milligrams. It is meant to be taken twice daily, with or without food, according to the instructions provided by your doctor [4]. However, the dosage prescribed will depend on certain factors, such as side effects experienced [5].
Tabrecta is not recommended to be taken with alcohol, and if you drink alcohol, it is recommended to talk with your doctor about a safe amount while taking Tabrecta [6]. The drug can interact with several other medications, including certain antifungals, antibiotics, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, proton pump inhibitors, cardiac glycosides, and certain statins. It's essential to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the drugs you take, as well as any vitamins, herbs, and supplements [7].
Before starting Tabrecta treatment, a blood test or biopsy will be ordered to check the genetic makeup of the NSCLC [8]. It's crucial to remember that Tabrecta is not safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and if you are sexually active and can become pregnant, you should use an effective form of birth control during Tabrecta treatment and for at least one week after your last dose of the drug [9].
Tabrecta is a long-term treatment, and it's essential to take it consistently as prescribed by your doctor. The actual cost of Tabrecta can vary depending on insurance, location, and pharmacy. Some patients may find it available through a mail-order pharmacy [10].
Tabrecta has been found effective for treating metastatic NSCLC with MET genes that are missing METex14. However, it's essential to remember that the drug is not currently available in generic form, and it's not approved for use in children, as clinical trials of the drug included only adults [11].
Early symptoms of NSCLC may include cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, hoarseness, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult your doctor immediately.
Tabrecta targets specific proteins on the MET gene in cancer cells to prevent these cells from growing. It's important to note that Tabrecta may cause mild or serious side effects, including back pain, chest pain, cough, digestive problems, fever, fatigue, skin sensitivity to sunlight, lung conditions, allergic reaction, interstitial lung disease, pneumonitis, abnormal results of liver function tests, and more [12]. If you have any concerns about side effects or drug interactions, it's essential to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
In conclusion, Tabrecta offers hope for patients with metastatic NSCLC caused by METex14 mutations. It's essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of Tabrecta with your doctor to determine if it's the right treatment option for you.
References:
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). (2021). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/nscl.pdf
- Liu, Y. et al. (2020). Capmatinib in patients with advanced MET exon 14 skipping non-small-cell lung cancer (GEM1910203): a multicentre, open-label, phase 2 trial. The Lancet Oncology, 21(12), 1556-1567.
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Medication Guide]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Medication Guide]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Medication Guide]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). (2021). NCI's Cancer Information Service. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/contact
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta (capmatinib) tablets [Prescribing Information]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/208666s000lbl.pdf
- Tabrecta, a new FDA-approved drug, is being used to treat a specific type of metastatic NSCLC in adults, targeting METex14 mutations in cancer cells.
- In clinical trials, Tabrecta showed an overall response rate of about 68% in treatment-naïve patients and 41% in previously treated patients, making it a promising first-line treatment for this molecular subtype of NSCLC.
- The drug works by inhibiting the MET receptor tyrosine kinase that is abnormally activated by MET exon 14 skipping mutations, slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
- Tabrecta comes as an oral tablet in two strengths: 150 milligrams and 200 milligrams, to be taken twice daily with or without food, as prescribed by a doctor.
- Tabrecta may cause mild or serious side effects, including but not limited to back pain, chest pain, cough, digestive problems, and lung conditions, and patients should discuss any concerns with their doctor or pharmacist.
