Uses of Entrectinib

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1. What is Entrectinib?

Entrectinib is a kinase inhibitor. Kinase is an enzyme that promotes cell growth. There are many types of kinases, which control different stages of cell development. By blocking a specific enzyme from working, this drug can slow the growth of cancer cells.
Entrectinib only works in tumors that have certain neuroreceptor kinase (NTRK) genes. The oncology team will examine the patient's tumor for this abnormality, which must be present in order to administer medication.

2. What is the effect of Entrectinib?

Entrectinib is used in adults to treat non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic).
Entrectinib is also used in adults and children who are at least 12 years old, who have solid tumors that have spread or cannot be safely removed with surgery, or when other treatments have failed or are not is a safe choice.
Entrectinib is used only if the cancer has a specific abnormal gene. Your doctor will test for this gene before prescribing the drug.
Entrectinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

3. How to take Entrectinib?

Entrectinib is a once-daily oral capsule. Because it is a capsule, it is best for the patient to take the tablet whole with water, do not open, break or chew.
It is recommended to take the dose of the drug at the same time every day. If you miss a dose or vomit after taking it, take another dose as soon as possible the same day. Return to your usual dosing schedule the next day. Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within the next 12 hours, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. If vomiting occurs after taking Entrectinib, a different dose may be used.

4. Drug interactions

Drug Interactions Entrectinib may change the drug's ability to work or increase the effect of side effects. Patients need to write a list of medications they are taking (including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs and dietary supplements) for the doctor or pharmacist to see to prescribe appropriate.
When Entrectinib is combined with Propacetamol, Acetaminophen may increase serum concentrations.
Blood levels of this medicine may be affected by certain foods and medications, so they should be avoided. These include: grapefruit, grapefruit juice, verapamil, ketoconazole, rifampin, phenytoin, St. John's wort and modafanil. Tell your treating doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

5. Storage and handling

Store the medicine in its original, labeled packaging at room temperature and in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom or in the freezer. Keep container out of reach of children and pets. Note to patient caregivers:
Patient caregivers should consider wearing gloves or pouring medication directly from their container into a lid, small cup, or directly into the patient's hand to avoid touching the tablet. Pregnant or nursing women should not prepare doses as this medicine can be absorbed through the skin and lungs Always wash your hands before and after taking Entrectinib Do not flush the toilet or throw it in the trash.

6. Entrectinib side effects

Here are some common side effects from using Entrectinib:
Kidney problems Entrectinib can cause kidney problems, including increased creatinine levels and increased uric acid. Notify your doctor if you notice a decrease in urine output, blood in your urine, swelling in your ankles, or loss of appetite.
Low red blood cell count (anemia) Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the tissues in the 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, you should inform your treating doctor. If the count is too low, a blood transfusion may be needed.
Fatigue Fatigue is very common during cancer treatment and is a feeling of exhaustion that often does not subside with rest. During cancer treatment and for a period of time afterward, patients need to adjust their schedules to manage fatigue. Plan time to rest during the day and save energy for more important activities. Exercise can help fight fatigue.
Constipation Appetite, taste changes, weight gain Nutrition is an important part of patient care. Cancer treatment can affect appetite, and in some cases, side effects of treatment with Estramustine can make it difficult to eat.
Try to eat five or six small meals or snacks throughout the day, instead of three large meals.
The sick person may experience a metallic taste or find that the food has no taste at all. Changes in taste, possible dislike of foods or drinks that were previously enjoyed before cancer treatment. These symptoms may persist for several months or longer after treatment ends.
Hepatotoxicity This drug can cause liver toxicity, which can be detected through a blood test called a liver function test. Notify your doctor if you notice yellow skin or eyes, dark or brown urine, or pain in your abdomen, as these could be signs of liver toxicity.
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.
Low white blood cell count (leukopenia or neutropenia)
White blood cells (WBC) are important for fighting infections. While being treated, your white blood cell count may drop, putting you at higher risk of infection. Patients should notify their doctor or nurse immediately if they develop a fever with a temperature higher than 38°C, accompanied by symptoms of a sore throat or cold, shortness of breath, cough, or burning when urinating.
Tips to prevent infection:
Frequent hand washing is the best way to prevent the spread of infection
Avoid large crowds and people who are sick (e.g. people with a cold, fever or cough or living with someone with these symptoms)
Do not dispose of pet waste
Keep all cuts or scrapes clean
Bathe or bathe daily and perform regular oral care.
Do not cut the cuticle. You can paint your nails, but not fake nail polish.
Diarrhea Abnormal sense of touch (dysfunction) Entrectinib can cause a change in the sensation of touching anything. Symptoms include an itchy, burning sensation on or under the skin, and unexplained pain that travels to other parts of the body.
Dizziness, cognitive problems Entrectinib can affect mood, thinking and senses. Symptoms include fainting, fatigue, blurred vision, memory loss, confusion, depression, and sleep changes. It can also cause dizziness.
Electrolyte abnormalities Entrectinib may affect the normal levels of electrolytes (potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, etc.) Abnormal levels of electrolytes will be monitored with blood tests. If levels become too low, the team may prescribe specific electrolytes to be given intravenously or orally.
Patients must not take any supplements on their own without consulting their doctor first.
Nausea, vomiting Muscle or joint pain Vision problems While taking Entrectinib, some patients may experience vision changes. Notify your doctor if you experience double vision, blurred vision, new or increased vision, or if light damages your eyes.
Some less common side effects from taking Entrectinib:
Heart problems: Entrectinib may cause or worsen pre-existing congestive heart failure. Tell your doctor if you experience sudden weight gain or swelling in your ankles or feet.
If you have pain or tightness in your chest, pain in your left arm, back or jaw, sweating, trouble breathing, rough skin, nausea, dizziness or lightheadedness, go to the nearest clinic for a timely check up. .
Long QT syndrome: Entrectinib can cause a slow or irregular heartbeat or abnormal heart rhythm called QT prolongation.
Fractures: Entrectinib may increase your risk of breaking bones, especially the hip and leg bones. You may have an increased risk of fracture after a fall or injury while taking this medicine
Fertility: Exposing your unborn baby to this medicine may cause birth defects, so it is not recommended to take pregnancy or fatherhood while taking this medicine. Women will be asked to take a pregnancy test before receiving this medicine. Effective birth control is needed during treatment and for 5 weeks after the last dose for women and 3 months after the last dose for men.
Women taking Entrectinib should not breast-feed and for 7 days after taking the last dose.

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