WARNING
Exkivity, also known as mobocertinib, is a medication used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with specific genetic mutations. Like many medications, Exkivity comes with potential risks and side effects. Some of these include:
- Gastrointestinal issues: Exkivity can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Skin reactions: Some people may experience rash, itching, or other skin irritations.
- Respiratory problems: Exkivity can lead to difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Liver problems: It may cause elevated liver enzymes or liver damage, which can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
- Eye problems: Exkivity can cause inflammation of the eye, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, or blurred vision.
- Cardiovascular issues: There is a risk of heart problems, including abnormal heart rhythms or heart failure.
- Risk of infection: Exkivity:can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
- Other potential side effects: These may include fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and changes in taste.
It’s essential for patients taking Exkivity to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider and to report any concerning symptoms promptly. Additionally, regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are typically recommended to manage any potential side effects and ensure the medication’s effectiveness.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Exkivity, or mobocertinib, is prescribed primarily for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults. Specifically, it is used for NSCLC that carries certain genetic mutations, particularly those involving the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. These mutations are known as exon 20 insertion mutations.
Exkivity works by targeting and inhibiting the activity of EGFR, which is a protein involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By blocking EGFR, Exkivity helps to slow down or halt the growth of cancer cells, thereby reducing the progression of NSCLC.
How should this medicine be used?
As for how Exkivity should be used:
- Dosage: The recommended dosage of Exkivity is typically determined by a healthcare provider based on factors such as the patient’s medical condition, weight, and other medications they may be taking.
- Administration: Exkivity is usually taken orally, in the form of tablets. It can be taken with or without food.
- Frequency: Exkivity is typically taken once daily, at around the same time each day, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
- Duration: Patients are usually instructed to continue taking Exkivity for as long as it is prescribed, even if they start to feel better. Stopping the medication prematurely could allow the cancer to progress.
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important while taking Exkivity to assess its effectiveness and monitor for any potential side effects or complications.
It’s crucial for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions precisely when taking Exkivity and to report any concerns or side effects promptly. Additionally, they should not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting their healthcare provider first.
Other uses for this medicine
Exkivity, or mobocertinib, is primarily used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with specific genetic mutations. However, its use in other conditions is limited, as its mechanism of action targets EGFR mutations predominantly found in NSCLC.
What special precautions should I follow?
Special precautions to follow when taking Exkivity include:
- Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially liver or kidney problems, heart conditions, or any history of eye disorders.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Exkivity may harm an unborn baby, so it’s essential to discuss pregnancy plans with your doctor before starting the medication. It’s also crucial to avoid breastfeeding while taking Exkivity, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Exkivity may interact with certain drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
- Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may regularly monitor your liver function, heart function, and overall health while you are taking Exkivity to check for any potential side effects or complications.
- Driving and Machinery: Exkivity may cause dizziness or fatigue in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
- Food Interaction: Exkivity can be taken with or without food, so there are no specific dietary restrictions regarding its administration. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking this medication to support your overall health and well-being.
- Grapefruit: Some medications can interact with grapefruit, affecting their absorption or metabolism in the body. However, there are no specific warnings about grapefruit interaction with Exkivity. Still, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider regarding any potential interactions with specific foods or beverages.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely when taking Exkivity, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have about the medication.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Exkivity (mobocertinib) can cause various side effects, which can vary in severity from person to person. Common side effects may include:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are common gastrointestinal side effects of Exkivity.
- Skin Reactions: Rash, itching, dry skin, and changes in skin color may occur. In some cases, severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis can occur, although these are rare.
- Respiratory Problems: Exkivity may cause cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
- Liver Problems: Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases) and liver damage may occur, leading to symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
- Eye Disorders: Inflammation of the eye (uveitis), dry eyes, and changes in vision may occur.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Exkivity can cause hypertension (high blood pressure), palpitations, and abnormal heart rhythms.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Exkivity.
- Musculoskeletal Symptoms: Muscle pain, joint pain, and muscle weakness may occur.
- Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Exkivity.
- Other Possible Side Effects: These may include fever, dizziness, insomnia, hair loss, changes in taste, and electrolyte imbalances.
It’s essential to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary. In some cases, your healthcare provider may decide that the benefits of taking Exkivity outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking Exkivity.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
When it comes to the storage and disposal of Exkivity (mobocertinib), here’s what you should know:
- Storage: Store Exkivity at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
- Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Exkivity tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consider using a drug take-back program or returning them to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of emergency or overdose of Exkivity, take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Assistance: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, seizures, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency room.
- Poison Control Center: You can also contact your local poison control center for guidance on what to do in case of an overdose. They can provide valuable information and assistance in managing the situation.
What other information should I know?
- Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your condition regularly while you are taking Exkivity, including performing blood tests to check for any potential side effects or complications.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the medication and to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
- Avoid Grapefruit: While there are no specific dietary restrictions with Exkivity, it’s generally advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it may interact with certain medications.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Exkivity may harm an unborn baby, so it’s essential to use effective contraception during treatment and discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider. Avoid breastfeeding while taking Exkivity, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Exkivity may interact with certain drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking Exkivity, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions or raise any concerns you may have about the medication.