Why is this medication prescribed?

Infigratinib is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors. It is prescribed for the treatment of a specific type of cancer called locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that has specific genetic alterations.

Infigratinib is specifically used in patients with UC who have genetic alterations in the FGFR2 or FGFR3 genes and who have previously received chemotherapy or are ineligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy. These genetic alterations lead to overactivation of the FGFR pathway, which plays a role in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

By inhibiting the FGFR pathway, infigratinib helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells and may shrink tumors in patients with UC. It is typically used when other treatment options have been ineffective or are not suitable for the individual patient.

How should this medicine be used?

Infigratinib is available in the form of oral capsules. The recommended dosage and usage instructions may vary depending on the specific prescribing information and the patient’s individual circumstances. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare professional or the medication guide.

Typically, infigratinib is taken orally once a day, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be crushed, chewed, or opened.

It’s essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule without altering it unless specifically instructed by the healthcare provider. Taking infigratinib consistently at the same time each day helps maintain a steady level of the medication in the body, which can optimize its effectiveness.

If a dose of infigratinib is missed, the patient should consult their healthcare provider for guidance on what to do. It is generally recommended not to take an additional dose to make up for the missed one unless advised by a healthcare professional.

It’s important to attend regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider to monitor the response to treatment, manage any potential side effects, and make any necessary dosage adjustments.

Other uses for this medicine

Infigratinib is primarily used for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) with specific genetic alterations. However, it’s important to note that medications may sometimes be prescribed off-label, meaning they may be used for conditions or purposes not specifically approved by regulatory authorities. The off-label use of infigratinib would depend on the healthcare provider’s assessment and clinical judgment.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions, it’s important to consider the following:

• Pre-existing conditions: Before starting infigratinib, it’s crucial to inform the healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, or any other significant health issues. In some cases, dosage adjustments or additional monitoring may be necessary.
• Drug interactions: Infigratinib may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. It’s essential to inform the healthcare provider about all medications and supplements being taken to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Infigratinib can be harmful to a developing fetus, so it is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Similarly, the use of infigratinib during breastfeeding is not recommended as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
• Side effects: Like any medication, infigratinib may cause side effects. Common side effects may include fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, changes in taste, decreased appetite, hair loss, and changes in liver function. It’s important to report any side effects to the healthcare provider for proper management.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests, kidney function, and blood cell counts may be necessary during treatment with infigratinib to ensure the medication is well-tolerated and to detect any potential adverse effects.
• Patient counseling: Patients should be counseled about the importance of taking infigratinib as prescribed, the potential side effects, and the need for regular follow-up appointments.

It’s crucial to discuss any specific precautions, concerns, or questions with the prescribing healthcare provider who has access to the patient’s complete medical history and can provide personalized advice.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Infigratinib does not usually require any specific dietary restrictions. However, it’s important to follow a balanced and healthy diet as advised by your healthcare provider. They may recommend avoiding certain foods or beverages that could interact with the medication or affect your overall health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Infigratinib, it is important to contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. They will provide instructions based on your specific treatment plan. In general, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it is recommended to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one unless specifically instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Infigratinib, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Here are some common side effects associated with Infigratinib:

• Increased blood phosphate levels (hyperphosphatemia)
• Nail toxicity (such as nail splitting, nail bed changes)
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Stomatitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth)
• Changes in taste
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Dry skin
• Hair loss or thinning
• Weight loss

It’s important to promptly report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing these side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. They can also provide you with a comprehensive list of potential side effects and offer specific instructions on what to do if you encounter any of them.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other uncommon or rare side effects may occur. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for complete and personalized information about the potential side effects of Infigratinib.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Infigratinib:

• Follow the specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Generally, Infigratinib should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• If you have any unused or expired medication, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority on how to properly dispose of it. Do not dispose of it in household trash or flush it down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, immediately contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• It is important to bring the medication container or packaging with you to provide relevant information to the healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications (prescription and over-the-counter), supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Infigratinib. This includes any recent changes in medications.
• Discuss any relevant medical conditions you have, including allergies, liver problems, kidney problems, or any history of eye problems.
• Attend all scheduled appointments and laboratory tests as recommended by your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and detect any potential side effects.
• It’s important to use effective contraception during treatment with Infigratinib, as it may cause harm to an unborn baby. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Remember, this information is a general overview, and it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for detailed and personalized instructions regarding storage, disposal, emergencies, and any other specific information related to your individual circumstances.