Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki: A Comprehensive Medication Profile
Summary or Key Points
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is a medication used primarily to treat specific types of breast and gastric cancer. This drug is an antibody-drug conjugate, working by targeting and destroying cancer cells. It’s crucial to understand the potential side effects, contraindications, and drug interactions associated with this medication. Consult with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team before adjusting your dose.
Names of Medication
The brand name for Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki in the US is Enhertu. The term in parenthesis is the generic name. The ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient of the drug. This generic name is often written in parenthesis next to the brand name.
Pharmacologic Category
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is an Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC). Other medications in this category include brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris) and ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla).
Dosing
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is indicated to treat the following diseases in adults:
- Breast Cancer: 5.4 mg/kg given intravenously every three weeks, in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
- Gastric Cancer: 6.4 mg/kg given intravenously every three weeks, in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Remember, the decision to adjust your medication dose should always be guided by a healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers are readily available for consultation.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki (Enhertu) is available as an injectable suspension in a strength of 100mg/5ml.
Administration Instructions
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is administered by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion over a period of 90 minutes. Subsequent infusions may be given over 30 minutes if tolerated by the patient. It should not be mixed with other medications or administered as an intravenous push or bolus.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki can cause several side effects, the frequency of which may vary:
- Common: Nausea, hair loss, vomiting, constipation, decreased appetite, anemia, neutropenia, leukopenia, diarrhea, cough, and fatigue.
- Uncommon: Interstitial lung disease, hypersensitivity reactions, and infusion-related reactions.
If you experience any persistent or worsening side effects, please reach out to a healthcare provider. Our telemedicine team is available for consultations.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is contraindicated in patients who have a history of severe hypersensitivity to fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki or any of its ingredients. Severe hypersensitivity reactions could be life-threatening.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki:
- Warfarin (Coumadin): Co-administration may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Clopidogrel (Plavix): Co-administration may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Certain antifungal agents like Ketoconazole (Nizoral) and certain antibiotics like Clarithromycin (Biaxin): These can interfere with the breakdown of Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki in the body and increase the risk of side effects.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before starting a new one.
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki in Pregnancy
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is not recommended during pregnancy. It could harm the unborn baby or cause birth defects. Always inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before starting this medication.
Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki while Breastfeeding
It is not known whether Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed child, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication and for at least 7 months after the last dose.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The cost for a 30-day supply of Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki can vary greatly based on the specific treatment plan. Please check GoodRX or similar platforms for the most current price estimates. Financial assistance may be available for qualifying patients.
Possible Alternatives
Always discuss any potential alternatives with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team before making changes to your treatment. Possible alternative treatments for breast and gastric cancers include:
- Breast Cancer: Paclitaxel (Taxol), Doxorubicin (Adriamycin), Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight and diet, and regular exercise.
- Gastric Cancer: Fluorouracil (Adrucil), Cisplatin, Docetaxel (Taxotere), and dietary changes to maintain nutrition during and after treatment.
Recent Updates on Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki Research
Research is ongoing to explore the use of Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki for other types of cancer. Recent studies have shown promising results in patients with HER2-positive metastatic colorectal cancer, suggesting potential for expanded use of this medication in the future. As always, consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team for the most up-to-date and personalized information.
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.