Alecensa – Medicine Information

Alecensa

Also known as / Brand Names:

Generic Name: Alectinib
Brand Name: Alecensa

Product Introduction:

Alecensa is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is positive for an abnormal anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and works by targeting and inhibiting the activity of the ALK protein, which plays a key role in the growth of cancer cells in ALK-positive tumors.

Alecensa is often used as a first-line treatment for metastatic ALK-positive NSCLC and is also approved as an adjuvant treatment in patients with early-stage ALK-positive NSCLC after surgery, to reduce the risk of recurrence. This targeted therapy offers a well-tolerated and effective option for patients with ALK-mutated cancers.

Uses of Alecensa:

  • Treatment of ALK-positive metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
  • Adjuvant treatment following surgical resection of ALK-positive NSCLC

Benefits of Alecensa:

  • Targets specific cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy cells
  • Delays cancer progression and improves survival outcomes
  • Effective in treating brain metastases due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier
  • Generally well tolerated compared to traditional chemotherapy
  • Oral administration allows convenient at-home treatment

Side Effects of Alecensa:

  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Swelling (edema) in hands, feet, or face
  • Muscle pain (myalgia)
  • Liver enzyme elevation
  • Low red or white blood cell counts
  • Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
  • Vision problems

Safety Advice:

Condition Safety Advice
Pregnancy Unsafe – Alecensa may harm an unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose.
Breastfeeding Not recommended – It is unknown whether Alecensa passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment.
Driving Caution – Alecensa may cause dizziness, tiredness, or vision changes that can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Kidney Safe if prescribed – No major dose adjustments are usually required in patients with kidney impairment.
Liver Caution – Liver function should be monitored regularly. Dose adjustments may be necessary in case of liver toxicity.

How to Use Alecensa:

Take Alecensa exactly as your doctor prescribes. The usual dose is 600 mg (four 150 mg capsules) taken twice daily with food. Swallow the capsules whole—do not crush or open them. Do not stop taking Alecensa without consulting your healthcare provider.

Interactions:

Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take. Alecensa may interact with:

  • Strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole)
  • Strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
  • Drugs that prolong QT interval

Storage Instructions:

Store Alecensa at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep it in its original packaging and away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Reminder:

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Alecensa only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.