Uses of Lorlatinib

Lobrena contains the active ingredient Lorlatinib. This is a next-generation therapy in the latest targeted treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) on the ALK mutation.

Lorlatinib works by targeting and blocking receptors found on cancer cells called non-producing lymphoma kinase (ALK). In some cancers, this receptor becomes overactive, causing cells to grow and divide too quickly. By inhibiting ALK, this drug can slow or stop the cell growth of cancer cells.
This drug is also used in cancer cells that are active against ROS1, another mutant form. Your oncologist will examine the tumor for this abnormality and prescribe medication.

Lorlatinib is taken orally, in the form of tablets. Lorlatinib may be taken with or without food. The drug should be swallowed whole, without chewing, crushing or breaking the tablet. You should take this medicine at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is less than 4 hours until the next dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
When using the drug, you need to limit the use of some foods, including: Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Ketoconazole, Rifampin, Phenytoin, St. John's wort and Fentanyl. Also, tell your treating doctor about all other medicines and supplements you are taking.

Here are some side effects you may experience while using Lorlatinib:
Peripheral edema: Peripheral edema is swelling of the extremities due to fluid retention. It can cause swelling of the hands, arms, legs, ankles, and feet. The swelling may become uncomfortable. Notify your doctor if you are experiencing any new or worsening swelling. Peripheral neuropathy (Night or tingling in the hands or feet): Peripheral neuropathy causes numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Central nervous system changes: This drug may affect central nervous system function. This includes changes in mood, speech, mental state, perception of thoughts, sleep, seizures, and hallucinations. Increased Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Lorlatinib may increase the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (lipids) in your blood. High blood sugar: The drug may increase blood sugar in patients with and without diabetes. While taking the medicine, your doctor will monitor your blood sugar. If you experience increased thirst, urination or hunger, blurred vision, headache or fruity breath, tell your doctor. Fatigue: Fatigue is very common during cancer treatment and is a feeling of exhaustion that often does not subside with rest. Muscle or Joint Pain / Headaches and Headaches: If you have joint problems or headaches, tell your doctor. Diarrhea: When using this medicine, you may experience digestive problems such as diarrhea. To limit this, you should eat low-fiber, bland foods, such as steamed rice and boiled or grilled chicken. Nausea or vomiting: Limit foods that are heavy or greasy/fatty, spicy or acidic (lemon, tomato, orange). Try antacids (eg milk of magnesia, calcium tablets like Tums), salt water, or ginger ale to ease nausea/vomiting symptoms. Low red blood cell count (anemia): Your red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the tissues in your body. When your red blood cell count is low, you may feel tired or weak. If you experience shortness of breath, shortness of breath, or chest pain, tell your doctor right away. If the count is too low, you may receive a blood transfusion. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia): Platelets help blood clot, so when it's low, you're at higher risk of bleeding. When any excessive bruising or bleeding occurs, including nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in your urine or stools, tell your doctor right away. If the platelet count becomes too low, you may be given a platelet transfusion. Low white blood cell count (leukopenia or neutropenia): White blood cells (WBCs) are important for fighting infections. While being treated, your white blood cell count may drop, putting you at higher risk of infection. You should tell your doctor or nurse right away if you develop a fever (temperature higher than 100.4°F / 38°C), sore throat or cold, trouble breathing, cough, burning when walking. urination or pain that does not heal. Electrolyte abnormalities: This medicine may affect the normal levels of electrolytes (potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.) Your levels will be monitored with a blood test. Do not take any supplements without consulting your doctor first. Reproductive Link: Exposure of the fetus to this drug may cause birth defects. You should not become pregnant or become a father while taking this medicine. Effective birth control with a non-hormonal method of birth control (condom, sponge, cervical cap, spermicide) is required during treatment and for at least 6 months after treatment. Men with female partners of fertility should use condoms for at least 3 months of treatment after the last dose of Lortatinib. You should not breast-feed while taking this medicine and for 1 week after the last dose. Lortatinib is a prescription drug, so make sure you consult your doctor before using it. Hopefully, the article has provided you with useful information about the uses, dosage and precautions when using Lortatinib.