Why is this medication prescribed?

Alectinib is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, specifically non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is ALK-positive. ALK-positive means that the cancer cells have a genetic mutation involving the ALK gene, which contributes to cancer growth. Alectinib works by inhibiting the activity of the ALK protein, thereby slowing down or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Alectinib should generally be used:

• Dosage and Administration: Alectinib is usually taken orally in the form of tablets. The typical dosage is one tablet twice a day, with or without food. The exact dosage and schedule can vary based on your specific condition and response to the medication.
• Swallowing Tablets: Take the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break them.
• Consistency: Try to take the medication at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your body.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests and other monitoring may be required to check for side effects and effectiveness.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Alectinib can interact with other substances.

Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding dosage and administration. If you have any questions or concerns about taking Alectinib, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

While Alectinib is primarily used for treating ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), research is ongoing into its potential use for other types of cancers that may also harbor ALK mutations or rearrangements.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Alectinib:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, especially to Alectinib or any of its components.
• Liver Function: Alectinib can affect liver function, so your doctor may monitor your liver enzymes with regular blood tests. Inform your doctor if you have liver disease or other liver issues.
• Heart Problems: Alectinib can cause or worsen heart problems, such as bradycardia (slow heart rate) or heart failure. Inform your doctor if you have any history of heart disease or related conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Alectinib can harm an unborn baby, so it’s important to use effective birth control during treatment and for some time after stopping the medication. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Alectinib can interact with other medications, so it’s crucial to inform your doctor of all the medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Lung Problems: If you experience symptoms like new or worsening cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, inform your doctor right away, as these could be signs of lung problems.
• Visual Changes: Report any changes in vision or eye symptoms to your doctor, as Alectinib can affect the eyes.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle pain. Report severe or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and communicate openly about any side effects or concerns you have during treatment with Alectinib.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food Intake: Alectinib can be taken with or without food, so no specific dietary restrictions are usually required. However, maintaining a balanced diet may help manage side effects like nausea.
• Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can interact with Alectinib and affect how the medication works.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember your missed dose within 6 hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember.
• Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
• Notify Your Doctor: Inform your healthcare provider about the missed dose and follow any additional instructions they may provide.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Alectinib can cause a range of side effects. Some are common, while others are more serious. Here’s a list of potential side effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are relatively common and may improve over time.
• Diarrhea: May occur and can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications or dietary adjustments.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a frequent side effect.
• Muscle Pain or Weakness: Some people experience muscle aches or weakness.
• Loss of Appetite: Reduced appetite may occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Issues: Elevated liver enzymes or liver damage can happen. Watch for symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Heart Problems: Alectinib can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) or other heart issues. Symptoms to watch for include dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeat.
• Lung Problems: New or worsening cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain could indicate lung issues and should be reported immediately.
• Vision Changes: Any changes in vision or eye discomfort should be reported to your doctor.
• Severe Rash: Skin reactions, including severe rash, should be monitored and reported.
• Allergic Reactions: Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Although rare, ILD is a serious condition that can cause lung inflammation and damage. Symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and fever.

Always report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment are necessary

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

Storage and Disposal of Alectinib:

• Storage:
  • Store Alectinib at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
  •  Keep it in its original container to protect it from moisture and light.
  • Store it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or on the medication label.
  • Use a drug take-back program or a pharmacy take-back service if available. Do not flush Alectinib down the toilet or throw it in the trash unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact your local poison control center for immediate advice.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, or other unusual symptoms. However, specific symptoms of an Alectinib overdose are not well-documented, so professional medical advice is essential.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups and monitoring (such as blood tests and liver function tests) are important to ensure that Alectinib is working effectively and to manage side effects.
• Communication with Healthcare Provider: Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider and discuss any new or worsening symptoms, as well as any other health issues that arise.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Alectinib can interact with other substances.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider, as Alectinib may not be safe in these situations.
• Emergency Information: Always carry information about your medications and health conditions, especially if you have a medical condition that might require emergency care.

Following these guidelines can help you use Alectinib safely and effectively. If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.