Uses of Larotrectinib

Larotrectinib is a drug used in the treatment of tumors caused by mutations in the NTRK gene. To achieve the best treatment results, patients should take the drug exactly as directed by the doctor.

Larotrectinib is known as a kinase inhibitor. Kinase is an enzyme that promotes cell growth. There are many types of kinases in the body to control different stages of cell growth. By blocking a specific enzyme from working, Larotrectinib works as a substance to slow the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Larotrectinib works only in tumors that have certain NTRK (Neurotropin tropomyosin receptor kinase) genes. Therefore, doctors will have to determine the presence of this gene mutation before administering Larotrectinib to a patient.

Larotrectinib is taken by mouth, as a capsule or as a liquid solution in a dose of 2 times per day. Larotrectinib can be taken with or without food. If the patient misses a dose, do not take another dose within 6 hours of your next dose. In case you vomit right after taking L arotrectinib, take your next dose at the indicated time.
The doctor can also adjust the dose of the drug during treatment. It will depend on how well your body responds and how effective Larotrectinib is.

Some common side effects that patients may experience during treatment with Larotrectinib are:
Neurotoxicity (Brain toxicity) Larotrectinib can cause delirium, dizziness facial features, difficulty speaking, dizziness when walking, memory changes, and tremors. Therefore, patients should not drive or operate machinery while using Larotrectinib.
Hepatotoxicity Larotrectinib can harm the liver, which doctors can monitor with periodic liver function tests. Tell your doctor right away if you notice dark urine, yellowing of the skin and eyes, or pain in the abdomen, as these could be signs of liver toxicity.
Causes anemia Red blood cells function to carry oxygen to tissues in the body. When the red blood cell count drops to a low level, the body feels tired and exhausted. If the patient has symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, they should notify the doctor immediately. In case, the red blood cell count is too low, the patient can be given a blood transfusion.
Fatigue This is very common during treatment with Larotrectinib . The patient will feel exhausted and often do not improve with rest. Exercise to keep your body healthy, practice walking habits and a scientific lifestyle to minimize this condition.
Nausea or vomiting The doctor may prescribe medication if this is the case. In addition, the patient can also change the diet more reasonable. Avoid things that can worsen symptoms, such as foods that are greasy and spicy or acidic (such as lemons, tomatoes, or oranges).
Constipation This is a possible side effect during treatment with Larotrectinib . You can reduce or prevent constipation by eating vegetables that are high in fiber. Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day. Using a stool softener 1-2 times per day can prevent constipation. If there is no bowel movement for 2-3 days, the patient should contact the treating doctor for advice.
Reducing the number of white blood cells that cause infection While taking Larotrectinib, the number of white blood cells in the user may decrease, putting the body at higher risk of infection. So, tell your doctor right away if you have a fever (temperature above 38°C), sore throat or cold, trouble breathing, cough, burning when urinating, or pain that doesn't go away.
Diarrhea In case the patient has diarrhea due to the use of Larotrectinib, the doctor may prescribe an additional anti-diarrheal medicine. Patients should also limit their intake of high-fiber foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals. Instead try eating foods that contain less fiber such as fruit juices, canned fruits, potatoes, ...

When using Larotrectinib, the body's blood levels may be affected if combined with certain foods and drugs. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid the absorption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Verapamil, Ketoconazole, Rifampin, Phenytoin and Stmodafanil when using Larotrectinib. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements before you start treatment with Larotrectinib.
Exposure to larotrectinib to the fetus can cause birth defects, so it is not recommended to become pregnant or father a child while using the drug. Your doctor will perform tests to see if you are pregnant before you start treatment with Larotrectinib. Having an appropriate and effective birth plan is essential during treatment and for at least 1 week after the end of treatment with larotrectinib. Patients should also not breast-feed while taking this medicine and for 1 week after the last dose of this medicine. Larotrectinib is a drug used to block the NTRK gene mutation that causes cancer. Detecting the early signs of the disease will make treatment easier and the cure rate higher.

Reference source: oncolink.org