Zykadia Ceritinib

Product Description

Zykadia (Ceritinib)

Brand name: Zykadia

Active Ingeridents(Generic Name) : Ceritinib

Company Name: Novartis

Package: 70 Capsules

Strength: 150mg

Indication:   

Zykadia (Ceritinib) is used to treat lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is used for lung cancers that have a certain type of abnormal "ALK" gene. Zykadia (Ceritinib) belongs to a class of drugs known as kinase inhibitors. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

Mechanism of action:

Zykadia (Ceritinib) inhibits Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) also known as ALK tyrosine kinase receptor or CD246 (cluster of differentiation 246), which is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the ALK gene. About 4-5% of NSCLCs have a chromosomal rearrangement that generates a fusion gene between EML4 (echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4) and ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase), which results in constitutive kinase activity that contributes to carcinogenesis and seems to drive the malignant phenotype. Zykadia (Ceritinib) exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting autophosphorylation of ALK, ALK-mediated phosphorylation of the downstream signaling protein STAT3, and proliferation of ALK-dependent cancer cells. Zykadia (Ceritinib) has been shown to inhibit in vitro proliferation of cell lines expressing EML4-ALK and NPM-ALK fusion proteins and demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of EML4-ALK-positive NSCLC xenograft growth in mice and rats.

Dosage and Administration:

Use Zykadia (Ceritinib) as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

·         Take Zykadia (Ceritinib) on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after a meal.

·         Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you use Zykadia (Ceritinib).

·         Continue to use Zykadia (Ceritinib) as you have been told, even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

·         If you miss a dose of Zykadia (Ceritinib), take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once or extra doses.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Zykadia (Ceritinib).

Side effects:

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, heartburn, constipation, or tiredness may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent or relieve nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Eating several small meals, not eating before treatment, or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Precaution:

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes or high blood sugar, liver problems.

Store: : Store Zykadia (Ceritinib) at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zykadia (Ceritinib) out of the reach of children and away from pets.