Capmatibin
Indications
Capmatinib is a targeted anticancer medicine used to treat adults with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have a specific genetic change called a MET exon 14 skipping mutation, confirmed by a test. It is prescribed and monitored by a cancer specialist.
How It Works
Capmatinib is a kinase inhibitor that blocks the MET receptor, a protein on cells that, when abnormally switched on by the mutation, drives cancer cells to grow, divide and spread. Blocking MET slows or stops tumour growth and can shrink tumours.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed by your cancer specialist. Tablets are usually taken twice a day, with or without food, swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. The specialist may reduce the dose, pause treatment or stop it depending on side effects and test results. If you vomit after a dose, do not take an extra dose; take the next dose at the usual time.
Interactions
Strong CYP3A inducers such as Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and St John's Wort can greatly reduce its effect and should be avoided. Strong CYP3A inhibitors may increase side effects. Capmatinib can raise levels of some medicines such as Caffeine, Theophylline, Tizanidine, Digoxin and Rosuvastatin. Tell your specialist about all medicines and supplements.
Contraindications
Do not take if you are allergic to Capmatinib or any ingredient of the tablet.
Side Effects
Common side effects include swelling of the hands, legs or feet, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhoea and changes in blood tests (raised creatinine, liver enzymes, amylase or lipase). The skin may become more sensitive to sunlight.
Get urgent medical help if you have new or worsening cough, shortness of breath or fever (possible lung inflammation), yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, severe sunburn or blistering, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Capmatinib can harm an unborn baby. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose, and men with female partners for at least 1 week after. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose.
Precautions and Warnings
Liver tests and other blood tests are needed regularly. Report breathing problems promptly. Use sunscreen and protective clothing and avoid strong sun. Tell your doctor about liver, lung or kidney disease.
Overdose
There is limited experience with overdose. Contact a doctor or hospital immediately; treatment is supportive.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic (MET kinase inhibitor).
Storage
Store below 30°C in the original pack to protect from moisture, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Capmatibin