Ripretinib

Ripretinib is a powerful medication that targets specific proteins in cancer cells to stop their growth and spread. It works by blocking the activity of certain proteins called tyrosine kinases, including KIT and PDGFRα, which are known to fuel the growth of tumors. By doing this, Ripretinib helps to slow down the growth of cancer cells and may even cause them to die. Additionally, it also blocks other proteins that support tumor growth such as PDGFRβ, TIE2, VEGFR2, and BRAF. Overall, Ripretinib offers hope in the fight against cancer by targeting multiple pathways that drive the disease.

Administration

This oral medication (pill) is typically administered once daily, preferably at the same time every day, regardless of food intake. If you forget a dose, you can take it within 8 hours of the scheduled time. Otherwise, wait until the next day to resume your regular dosing schedule.

Potential Side Effects & Management

•Alopecia: Hair Loss may be partial. Managing this side effect can significantly impact the quality of life.
• Nausea and Vomiting : Managing these side effects can significantly impact quality of life during treatment.
• Diarrhea: Increased bowel activity.
• Constipation: inability to pass stools as often as usual. Management includes drinking a lot of fluids, increasing fiber consumption, light exercise, and in severe cases, laxatives may be prescribed.
• Stomach Pain: Pain, bloating, indigestion, or discomfort in the abdomen. Your doctor can prescribe medications to alleviate these symptoms.
• Fluid build-up: Swelling; improves after treatment.
• Sore Mouth & Throat: Treatment may cause sore mouth and throat which can potentially lead to mouth ulcers and increased risk of infection. Maintain oral hygiene; contact your healthcare team for mouthwash or medicines if needed.
• Headache, Muscle or Joint Pain: Pain in head, muscles or joints may arise; notify your doctor for pain relief, especially if persistent.
• Fatigue: This treatment may cause fatigue or weakness, which can impact daily activities.
• Weight Loss: this treatment may cause a reduction in body weight. Check with your healthcare providers what measures can be taken to prevent deficiencies.
• Loss of Appetite: Treatment can impact appetite and lead to anorexia. Dietary changes may be suggested.
• Rash: Rash symptoms typically start within 2 to 4 weeks of treatment initiation but may also appear later, even after a few months.
• Hypertension: This treatment may cause elevated blood pressure.
• Hand-Foot Syndrome: Hand-foot skin reaction characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes blistering on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience the following symptoms while taking Ripretinib, seek immediate medical attention to assess and manage potential complications:

1. Cardiac Dysfunction:
– Cardiac dysfunction can manifest with symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swollen feet, ankles, and legs, cough, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or chest pain, pressure, or discomfort.
– Monitoring for Complications: Pay close attention to any signs of heart problems, including difficulty breathing, unusual fatigue, swelling in the lower extremities, persistent cough, irregular heartbeats, or chest discomfort.

2. New Primary Cutaneous Malignancies:
– Ripretinib treatment may increase the risk of developing new primary cutaneous malignancies, such as squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
– Identifying Symptoms: Be vigilant for any changes in your skin, including new or changing skin lesions, alterations in skin color, thickening of the skin, or the presence of rough, scaly patches.

By promptly recognizing and addressing these symptoms, you can ensure timely intervention and appropriate management of potential complications associated with Ripretinib treatment.