osimertinib making up around 80% of all lung cancer cases. EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a subtype of NSCLC due to a genetic mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) geme. This mutation enables cancer cells to accelerate stretch and spread. In patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC, this mutation leads to the EGFR protein acting overly, which makes the cancer cells proliferate and partition sooner than normal. This renders the cancer more aggressive and hard to treat.
Osimertinib (Osimert) – FDA approved. A new drug for EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Inhibiting the EGFR T790M mutation — one of the most prevalent mutations in NSCLC — prevents tumor cells from proliferating and has been shown to improve survival rates by inhibiting action of the mutation. is very effective and has fewer side effects than most other treatments. It may also serve as a first-line treatment for some patients.
First-line and second-line treatment of EGFR-mutation NSCLC. Clinical trial data showed that Osimertinib was 10.1 months longer than standard treatment in progression-free survival (PFS) for patients with starter+]EGFR-mutated NSCLC who have progressed on other therapies. It is the time from initiation of therapy unit the patient dies or the cancer advances.
is also well tolerated. They can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. These are most commonly mild to moderate and can be controlled with medications.
If you have EGFR-mutated NSCLC, discuss with your doctor if may be appropriate for you. EGFR-mutated cancer patients, having been shown to extend life and enhance life quality.
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How Does Osimertinib Work?
The EGFR T790M mutation enhances the activity of the EGFR protein, resulting in uncontrolled growth of cells and a progression of cancer. Osimertinib acts by inhibition of kinases important in cell growth and division. It blocks the EGFR T790M mutation so that cancer cells cannot grow. Osimertinib is also approved for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) associated with the EGFR T790M mutation and has been used off-label for some varieties of thyroid cancer. It is a targeted drug that prevents specific molecules from stimulating rapid proliferation of cancer cells.
what are the side effects of Osimertinib ?
The most common side effects:
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Rash
- Dry skin
- Dyspepsia (Indigestion)
- Increased liver enzymes
- Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
- Heart Problems
- Liver Problems
- Bone marrow suppression
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a serious skin reaction)
Who can take Osimertinib?
Osimertinib is approved by the FDA to treat adult patients with EGFR mutations with NSCLC.
How is Osimertinib administered?
Osimertinib is an oral tablet. It is typically administered once a day. It is taken at the same time each day, with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; doing so can increase the risk of side effects.
What is the cost of Osimertinib?
In general, the cost can vary depending on the dosage and the pharmacy it is purchased from. On average, costs around $15,000 per month, depending on the dosage and pharmacy.
Tagrisso is a prescription medicine for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread and is caused by the EGFR 790M mutation. It’s also used to treat certain thyroid cancers. Kinases are enzymes that regulate cell growth and division. This mutation activates the EGFR protein and causes unregulated cell proliferation. Mutant EGFR T790M is blocked by osimertinib, which halts cancer cells.
The FDA approved Tagrisso in 2015. It comes as a tablet to be taken once a day. Common side effects of Tagrisso include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. These side effects are typically mild to moderate and can be controlled with medication.
Talk to your doctor about whether Tagrisso is right for you if you’ve been diagnosed with NSCLC or thyroid cancer. Tagrisso has been shown to prolong life and increase the quality of life in patients with these cancers.
Conclusion
It has been shown that is well tolerated and extends the survival period in patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC who have progressed on previous treatments. It is a new, effective treatment option for EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Talk to your doctor about whether is appropriate for you if you have been diagnosed with EGFR-mutated NSCLC. It is important to note that not all patients will respond to Osimertinib and it is not recommended for all types of lung cancer. Additionally, there are potential side effects to consider before beginning treatment. Speak to your doctor to discuss all treatment options available to you.