Alecensa is a prescription cancer medication used to treat patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body. This medication works to target the cancer cells and stop the growth and spread. Alecensa is used also to treat NSCLC caused by a rare anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene.
What form(s) does Alecensa come in
Capsule
What are common Alecensa doses?
Capsule 150MG
Common Alecensa prescriptions
Alecensa 150mg capsule
How to take Alecensa
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, or chew it.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Missed dose: If you miss a dose or vomit after taking a dose, skip that dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, or chew it.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Missed dose: If you miss a dose or vomit after taking a dose, skip that dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
What to do if you miss a dose of Alecensa
Alecensa contraindications
Most people are able to take this medicine without serious problems. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Alecensa warnings
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Oral routeThis medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Women should use effective birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 1 week after the last dose. Men should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose.
Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, or a history of other lung disease or breathing problems.
Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:Liver problemsInterstitial lung disease or pneumonitisKidney problemsBradycardia (slow heartbeat)Myalgia (muscle pain)
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Alecensa interactions
Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:Liver problemsInterstitial lung disease or pneumonitisBradycardia (slow heartbeat)Myalgia (muscle pain)
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, heart disease, or a history of other lung disease or breathing problems.
Oral routeThis medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Women should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose. Men should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose.
Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
Alecensa side effects
Serious Side Effects
Dark urine or pale stools, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
Swelling in your hands, feet, or legs
Slow or uneven heartbeat
Cough, fever, trouble breathing
Change in how much or how often you urinate, cloudy urine
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
