what is Alecensa (by AI)

 Alecensa (generic name: alectinib) is a prescription medication used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is ALK-positive. It is a targeted therapy designed to inhibit the activity of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene, which can drive the growth of certain types of cancer cells.

🧬 How Alecensa Works

Alecensa is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that specifically targets and blocks the activity of the ALK protein. In patients with ALK-positive NSCLC, this protein can promote cancer cell proliferation. By inhibiting ALK, Alecensa helps to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.​WSJ+7Cancer Research UK+7alecensa+7

💊 Indications

Alecensa is approved for:

  • Adjuvant treatment: To help prevent the recurrence of early-stage (stage IB to IIIA) ALK-positive NSCLC after surgical tumor resection. ​WSJ+4Wikipedia+4alecensa+4

  • Metastatic treatment: For patients with advanced or metastatic ALK-positive NSCLC.​

📋 Dosage and Administration

  • Standard dose: 600 mg taken orally twice daily with food.​Medical News Today

  • Capsule form: Each capsule contains 150 mg of alectinib. Patients typically take four 150 mg capsules per dose. ​alecensa

  • If side effects occur, the dosage may be adjusted to 450 mg or 300 mg twice daily. ​Medical News Today

⚠️ Side Effects

Common side effects include:

Serious side effects may include:

  • Liver damage (e.g., jaundice, nausea, dark urine)​

  • Severe muscle pain or weakness​alecensa+1Medscape+1

  • Lung problems (e.g., shortness of breath, cough)​

  • Heart issues (e.g., slow heart rate)​

  • Low red blood cell count (anemia)​

Regular monitoring of liver function and blood counts is recommended during treatment. ​

🧪 Testing and Monitoring

Before starting treatment, patients should undergo testing to confirm the presence of the ALK gene mutation. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor for side effects and assess treatment efficacy.​

🌍 Availability and Access

Alecensa is approved in over 100 countries, including the United States, Japan, and members of the European Union. In the U.S., it is marketed by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group. ​WSJ

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