Tucatinib Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Tucatinib (brand name: Tukysa) is an oral medication used for treating certain types of breast cancer. This article provides important information about Tucatinib, including dosing, side effects, contraindications, and more. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Tukysa
The generic name is Tucatinib, which is listed in parentheses. The ‘generic name’ refers to the standard name of the active ingredient in the medicine.

Pharmacologic Category

Tucatinib is a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, which works by blocking certain proteins that help cancer cells grow and divide.

Dosing

Tucatinib is indicated to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. The usual dose is 300 mg, taken twice daily with food until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors before adjusting your dose.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tucatinib is available as oral tablets in a strength of 50 mg.

Administration Instructions

Tucatinib should be taken with food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, break, or chew it.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

• Diarrhea: A common side effect that may lead to dehydration if severe.
• Liver problems: These can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Low platelet count: This can lead to bruising and excessive bleeding.
• Rash: Skin may become red and irritated.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a situation where a drug should not be used because it may be harmful. Tucatinib should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment due to the increased risk of adverse reactions. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand if the medication is safe for you.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Tucatinib may interact with CYP2C8 inhibitors such as Gemfibrozil (Lopid) and CYP2C8 inducers such as Rifampin (Rifadin). Make sure to discuss all medications and supplements you’re taking with your healthcare provider.

Tucatinib in Pregnancy

Tucatinib is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown potential harm to the fetus, and the risks to human fetuses are not yet well understood. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, please consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors.

Tucatinib while Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Tucatinib is excreted into human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Tucatinib and for at least one week after the last dose. Please consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors before making any changes.

Estimated Cost of Medication

As of the time of writing, the estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Tucatinib without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is around $12,500. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and the patient’s insurance plan.

Possible Alternatives

Alternative treatments for HER2-positive breast cancer include other HER2 inhibitors such as Trastuzumab (Herceptin) or Lapatinib (Tykerb), and chemotherapy. Certain lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy diet and staying physically active, might also be beneficial. Discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Recent Updates on Tucatinib Research

Recent studies on Tucatinib have shown promise in combination with other treatments for HER2-positive breast cancer, leading to improved progression-free survival rates. Ongoing research is studying Tucatinib’s effectiveness in other types of cancer. Consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors to learn more about the latest research on Tucatinib.

This article is intended to be a helpful resource but is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine doctors before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.