Why is this medication prescribed?

Truseltiq (infigratinib) is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of adults with previously treated, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) with a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) fusion or rearrangement.

Truseltiq is a kinase inhibitor that works by blocking the activity of the FGFR2 protein, which can help slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells.

How should this medicine be used?

Truseltiq (infigratinib) is typically prescribed for adults with previously treated, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) with a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) fusion or rearrangement. Here’s how it’s generally used:

• Dosage: The recommended dosage of Truseltiq is usually determined by the prescribing healthcare provider based on factors such as the patient’s weight, medical history, and overall health condition.
• Administration: Truseltiq is an oral medication, usually taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food.
• Swallowing: Truseltiq capsule should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They should not be crushed, split, or chewed.
• Timing: It’s typically taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in the bloodstream.
• Monitoring: Patients using Truseltiq should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider for any potential side effects or changes in their condition.
• Follow-up: Patients should adhere strictly to their prescribed dosage and follow any additional instructions provided by their healthcare provider.
• Storage: Truseltiq tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. They should be kept in their original packaging until ready to use.

It’s crucial for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions precisely regarding the use of Truseltiq. If there are any concerns or questions about its usage, patients should consult with their healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Truseltiq (infigratinib) is primarily indicated for the treatment of adults with previously treated, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) with a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) fusion or rearrangement. However, as with many medications, there may be off-label or investigational uses for Truseltiq. These uses would be determined by healthcare professionals based on individual patient circumstances, and they may involve clinical trials or experimental treatment protocols.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Truseltiq, it’s essential to consider several factors:

• Medical History: Patients should inform their healthcare provider of their complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, especially liver or kidney problems, as well as any previous treatments or medications they are currently taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Truseltiq may cause harm to an unborn baby, so it’s crucial to avoid becoming pregnant while taking Truseltiq and to use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose. It’s also not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Truseltiq can affect liver and kidney function, so regular monitoring of liver and kidney function tests is typically recommended during treatment.
• Eye Disorders: Truseltiq may cause ocular toxicity, including retinal pigment epithelial detachment (RPED) and other vision-related disorders. Patients should report any changes in vision or eye symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.
• Cardiac Effects: Truseltiq may cause QT interval prolongation, which can lead to irregular heartbeats. Patients with a history of or predisposition to QT interval prolongation should be closely monitored, and concomitant use of other medications known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided if possible.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) and Pneumonitis: Truseltiq can cause ILD and pneumonitis, which are potentially serious lung disorders. Patients should report any new or worsening respiratory symptoms, such as cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, to their healthcare provider immediately.
• Dosing Interruptions and Adjustments: Depending on the severity of side effects, dosing interruptions, reductions, or discontinuations may be necessary. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosing adjustments carefully.

It’s important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions about Truseltiq and its potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Truseltiq, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated during treatment, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Truseltiq, you should take it as soon as you remember on the same day. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Truseltiq (infigratinib) can cause various side effects, some of which may be common, while others are less common but potentially serious. It’s important for patients to be aware of these potential side effects and to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly. Common side effects of Truseltiq may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Changes in taste sensation
• Changes in liver function tests
• Abnormal laboratory test results (such as electrolyte abnormalities)

Less common but potentially serious side effects of Truseltiq may include:

• Ocular toxicity, including retinal pigment epithelial detachment (RPED) and other vision-related disorders
• QT interval prolongation, which can lead to irregular heartbeats
• Liver toxicity, including hepatotoxicity and liver enzyme elevations
• Kidney toxicity, including renal impairment and kidney function abnormalities
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia), which can cause redness, swelling, pain, and/or peeling of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
• Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pneumonitis, which are potentially serious lung disorders
• Hyperphosphatemia (high levels of phosphate in the blood)

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects of Truseltiq. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for a full list of side effects and for guidance on managing any side effects experienced during treatment. Additionally, patients should seek medical attention if they experience any severe or persistent side effects or any signs of allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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

Storage and disposal of Truseltiq:

• Storage: Truseltiq tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). They should be kept in their original packaging to protect them from moisture and light. It’s essential to store Truseltiq out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Unused or expired Truseltiq tablets should be disposed of properly. Patients can consult their healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal authority for guidance on the proper disposal method in their area. It’s important not to flush Truseltiq down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Truseltiq:

• Emergency: If you or someone else experiences a medical emergency or a suspected overdose of Truseltiq, call emergency services immediately. In the United States, you can dial 911 for emergency assistance.
• Overdose: If you suspect an overdose of Truseltiq, seek medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeats.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Patients taking Truseltiq should undergo regular monitoring, including blood tests to check liver and kidney function, eye exams to monitor for ocular toxicity, and other assessments as recommended by their healthcare provider.
• Follow-up Appointments: Patients should attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their response to treatment, assess for side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
• Avoiding Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking, as Truseltiq may interact with certain medications. It’s important to avoid concomitant use of other medications known to prolong the QT interval or medications that may affect liver or kidney function without consulting a healthcare provider.
• Patient Support: Patients may benefit from support resources such as patient advocacy groups, counseling services, or support hotlines, which can provide information, emotional support, and assistance throughout their treatment journey.
• Travel Precautions: Patients should be aware of potential side effects of Truseltiq, such as dizziness or fatigue, which may affect their ability to operate machinery or drive. It’s also essential to plan ahead for any travel, ensuring an adequate supply of medication and making arrangements for medical care if needed.
• Pregnancy and Fertility: Truseltiq may harm an unborn baby, so it’s important to use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose. Patients should discuss family planning and fertility preservation options with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Truseltiq.

As always, patients should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Truseltiq and any specific concerns or questions they may have.