Tepmetko (Tepotinib): Side Effects, Uses, Interaction and Precautions

Posted on the 12 November 2021 by Vishal Kaushik @HR_Gabru
  • GENERIC NAME: Tepotinib tablets
  • BRAND NAME(S): Tepmetko
  • DRUG CLASS: MET Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

WHAT IS TEPMETKO?

Tepmetko is a medicine used in the treatment of adult individuals with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that

  • has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic)
  • whose tumors have a mutation that leads to mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) gene.

It belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors. It works by slowing the growth of cancer cells. It is available in tablet form for oral use only.

TEPMETKO DOSAGE:

The recommended dosage of Tepmetko is 450 mg. You can take it orally once with food until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF TEPMETKO?

The most common side effects of Tepmetko (Tepotinib) include:

  • Muscle aches
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Edema
  • Increased blood creatinine
  • Hypoalbuminemia
  • Interstitial lung disease

It may cause serious liver disease. Tell your doctor if you have liver damage symptoms such as your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark or "tea colored" urine, light-colored stools (bowel movements), confusion, tiredness, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea and vomiting, pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach-area (abdomen), weakness, swelling in your stomach-area.

A very serious allergic reaction to Tepotinib is rare. However, get emergency medical help if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rashes, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, throat), itching, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Some other drugs may interact with Tepmetko (Tepotinib). It may include:

  • Strong CYP3A inhibitors and inducers
  • P-gp inhibitors and substrates
  • Some vitamins
  • Herbal products, and
  • Prescription and over-the-counter medicines

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE USING TEPMETKO:

Before taking Tepotinib tablet, tell your doctor or health care provider if you are allergic to it or if you have a history of any other allergies.

Before using Tepmetko (Tepotinib) medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially of:

  • Liver problems
  • Lung or breathing problems other than your lung cancer.

Do not use this medicine if you're pregnant. Tepotinib medication may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor or health care provider if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Your doctor may suggest a pregnancy test before start using this drug.

Here; it is advisable not to become pregnant while taking Tepotinib. It is vital to ask about reliable forms of birth control while taking this drug and for one week after the last dose.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

WARNINGS:

Tepmetko may cause serious health side-effects such as liver problems. This medicine may cause severe or life-threatening inflammation of the lungs during cancer treatment that can lead to death.

Tell your doctor right away if you're developing any new or worsening symptoms of lung problems, such as:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Trouble breathing
  • Shortness of breath

MISSED DOSE:

If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 8 hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time.

STORAGE:

Store at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

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