Why is this medication prescribed?

Fruquintinib is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of enzymes called tyrosine kinases. These enzymes are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Fruquintinib is prescribed primarily for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body) who have already received prior treatment with chemotherapy.

How should this medicine be used?

Fruquintinib is typically administered orally in the form of capsule. Here are general guidelines on how it should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of fruquintinib prescribed to you will depend on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, your overall health, and your response to treatment. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Administration: Fruquintinib capsules are usually taken by mouth once daily. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it, and do not take it more frequently than instructed.
• Timing: Fruquintinib can be taken with or without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the timing of doses.
• Swallowing: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsule before swallowing, as this may alter the way the medication is released in your body.
• Consistency: Try to take fruquintinib at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your bloodstream.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of fruquintinib, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Duration of Treatment: Continue taking fruquintinib for as long as your doctor recommends, even if you feel well or your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely could allow the cancer to continue growing.
• Monitoring: Your doctor will monitor your progress regularly while you are taking fruquintinib. This may involve blood tests, imaging scans, and physical examinations to assess how well the medication is working and to watch for any side effects.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about how to use fruquintinib properly. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual medical history and needs.

Other uses for this medicine

Fruquintinib is primarily used for the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. However, researchers are continually investigating potential alternative uses for medications, including off-label uses. As of my last update in January 2022, the primary approved use of fruquintinib is for metastatic colorectal cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using fruquintinib, here are some important points to consider:

• Medical History: Before starting fruquintinib treatment, inform your doctor about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. This information can help your doctor assess whether fruquintinib is suitable for you and whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Fruquintinib may cause harm to a developing fetus. Therefore, it is essential to avoid becoming pregnant while taking fruquintinib. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the potential risks and benefits of fruquintinib with your doctor. Additionally, it is not recommended to breastfeed while taking fruquintinib, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
• Liver Function: Fruquintinib is metabolized by the liver, so it may not be suitable for individuals with severe liver impairment. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or monitor your liver function more closely if you have liver problems.
• Blood Pressure: Fruquintinib can sometimes cause an increase in blood pressure (hypertension). Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure regularly during treatment. If you have a history of hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment or monitor you more closely.
• Drug Interactions: Fruquintinib may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements you are taking before starting fruquintinib treatment.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, fruquintinib can cause side effects. Common side effects may include diarrhea, fatigue, hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, and pain on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet), hypertension, and proteinuria (excess protein in the urine). Be sure to report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor will monitor your progress and may perform regular blood tests, imaging scans, and physical examinations to assess how well the medication is working and to watch for any potential complications.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidelines for using fruquintinib, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or seek clarification about your treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Fruquintinib are generally not specified. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall health and wellbeing during cancer treatment. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations based on their individual health status and treatment regimen.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If a dose of Fruquintinib is missed, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at the regular scheduled time. Patients should not double the dose to make up for the missed one. It’s essential to maintain consistent dosing intervals to ensure the medication’s effectiveness. If patients have any concerns or questions about missed doses, they should consult their healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fruquintinib, like many medications, can cause side effects. These side effects can vary in severity and may affect individuals differently. Common side effects associated with fruquintinib may include:

• Hypertension: Fruquintinib can sometimes cause an increase in blood pressure. It’s essential to monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment.
• Hand-foot syndrome: This condition can cause redness, swelling, and pain on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea while taking fruquintinib. It’s important to stay hydrated and inform your doctor if diarrhea persists or becomes severe.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a common side effect of many cancer medications, including fruquintinib.
• Proteinuria: Fruquintinib may cause an excess of protein in the urine. Your doctor may monitor your urine protein levels during treatment.
• Decreased appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite while taking fruquintinib, which can lead to weight loss.
• Nausea and vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms may occur as side effects of fruquintinib treatment.
• Abdominal pain: Some individuals may experience abdominal discomfort or pain while taking fruquintinib.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect associated with fruquintinib treatment.
• Liver enzyme elevation: Fruquintinib can sometimes cause an increase in liver enzymes, which may indicate liver inflammation or damage. Your doctor may monitor your liver function tests regularly during treatment.

It’s important to note that not all individuals will experience these side effects, and some may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking fruquintinib, it’s crucial to inform your doctor promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, if you experience any severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

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

Storage and disposal of Fruquintinib:

• Storage:
  • Store Fruquintinib capsule at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
  • Keep the medication in its original packaging or container, away from children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired Fruquintinib capsule properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority on how to safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency/overdose of Fruquintinib:

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of Fruquintinib or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or severe dizziness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact your local poison control center for guidance on what to do in case of overdose. They can provide information on managing the situation and may advise you to seek medical help.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your response to Fruquintinib treatment.
• Lab Tests: Your doctor may order regular blood tests and other laboratory investigations to monitor your blood pressure, liver function, and other parameters during treatment with Fruquintinib.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Fruquintinib, as it may interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and pharmacists, that you are taking Fruquintinib. This helps ensure coordinated care and prevents potential drug interactions or complications.
• Patient Assistance Programs: If you have difficulty affording Fruquintinib or require assistance with insurance coverage, inquire about patient assistance programs offered by the manufacturer or charitable organizations.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Fruquintinib, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or seek clarification about your treatment plan or any concerns you may have.