Alpelisib

Introduction

Alpelisib is an oral prescription medicine used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. It belongs to a class of medications known as PI3K inhibitors. Alpelisib is typically prescribed in combination with hormone therapy for postmenopausal women or men who have advanced or metastatic breast cancer that is hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-), with a PIK3CA gene mutation. It works by blocking the growth of cancer cells. This medicine helps improve treatment outcomes in patients who have not responded to other therapies.

Uses of Alpelisib

• Treatment of advanced or metastatic breast cancer
• Used in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) tumors
• Effective in cases with confirmed PIK3CA gene mutation

How Alpelisib works

Alpelisib works by inhibiting the PI3K enzyme pathway, which is involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. In tumors with a PIK3CA mutation, this pathway becomes overactive, allowing cancer to grow rapidly. By blocking this enzyme, Alpelisib slows down or stops the cancer cell growth and enhances the effectiveness of hormonal therapy.

Benefits of Alpelisib

• Improves progression-free survival in advanced breast cancer patients
• Targets the underlying genetic mutation (PIK3CA)
• Combines effectively with hormone therapies
• Oral tablet – easy to administer

How to take Alpelisib

Alpelisib should be taken once daily with food, preferably at the same time each day. Do not crush or chew the tablet. It is usually prescribed in combination with another hormone therapy, such as fulvestrant. Always follow your doctor's dosage instructions strictly and do not skip doses.

Type of Dosage Available

• Alpelisib 50 mg Tablet
• Alpelisib 150 mg Tablet
• Alpelisib 200 mg Tablet

Side effects of Alpelisib

• Common side effects: Nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, loss of appetite
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
• Skin rash and redness
• Weight loss
• Severe side effects: Severe allergic reactions, lung inflammation, liver dysfunction

Safety Advice

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly
• Inform doctor about any existing liver or kidney issues
• Avoid taking it with grapefruit juice or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
• Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor side effects

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Alpelisib used for?

A: Alpelisib is used to treat HR+, HER2- breast cancer in patients with a PIK3CA gene mutation.

Q: Can I take Alpelisib during pregnancy?

A: No, Alpelisib should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby.

Q: How long does it take for Alpelisib to show effects?

A: The effect can vary depending on the patient's condition, but improvement in symptoms may be seen within weeks of consistent use.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's near the time of your next dose. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is it safe to take Alpelisib with other cancer medicines?

A: Yes, but only under medical supervision. It is commonly taken with hormone therapy like fulvestrant.