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Vizimpro Information

Vizimpro, known by its generic name dacomitinib, is a specialized oral medication primarily used to treat a specific subset of patients with non-small cell lung cancer. It is specifically used if the cancer cells harbor specific changes in epidermal growth factor receptor proteins ( such as HER1, HER2, and HER4) and have spread to other parts of the body. Dacomitinib is classified as a second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It is further categorized as an antineoplastic agent.

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common form of lung cancer. In a subset of patients, the disease is driven by a defective epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein that remains permanently activated. This constant activity acts like a stuck accelerator pedal, causing cells to grow and spread uncontrollably throughout the body. Dacomitinib works by irreversibly binding to and inhibiting the activity of the human EGFR family of kinases (specifically HER1, HER2, and HER4). By forming a permanent covalent bond with these receptors, it shuts down the intracellular signaling pathways (like the Ras cascade) that usually tell the cancer cell to multiply. Clinical trials have shown that this medication helps patients live longer without their disease progressing (progression-free survival) compared to earlier standard treatments.

Vizimpro Side Effects

Like other medications, dacomitinib is associated with some side effects. Some common side effects of this medication include acne, arm or leg pain, changed sense of taste, cold-like symptoms (e.g., cough, nasal congestion), constipation, dry, itchy eyes, dry, peeling skin, fatigue, hair loss, increased hair growth, increased sensitivity to sunlight, itching, mild diarrhea, mouth sores, muscle pain, nausea, rash, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping, vomiting, weakness, and weight loss. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Blisters inside the mouth;
• Breathing problems with symptoms such as shortness of breath, troubled breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest, fast or irregular breathing;
• Dehydration with symptoms such as decreased urine, dry skin, dry and sticky mouth, sleepiness, dizziness, headache, thirst, and confusion;
• Diarrhea;
• Eye problems such as redness, pain, increased tearing, blurred vision, decreased vision, increased sensitivity to light, or the feeling like something is trapped in your eye.
• Pain, redness, warmth, swelling of the skin around fingernails or toenails

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Vizimpro Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to dacomitinib, other ingredients in Vizimpro, or any other medications. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Eye problems;
• Liver disease;
• Lung problems

Beyond standard rashes, this medication can cause exfoliative skin conditions. Ensure to use sunscreen and moisturizer, and limit sun exposure, as UV light can worsen these reactions. Based on its mechanism and animal studies, Vizimpro can cause fetal harm and is therefore not for use during pregnancy. It may increase the risk of post-implantation loss or reduce fetal weight. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment with dacomitinib and for at least 17 days after the final dose. It is currently unknown if dacomitinib passes into human breast milk. However, due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for 17 days after the last dose. Caution is advised when using this medication in older adults, especially those aged 65 years and above.

The absorption of dacomitinib depends on an acidic stomach environment. You should avoid medications like omeprazole and lansoprazole entirely as they significantly decrease dacomitinib’s concentration and efficacy. Dacomitinib is a strong inhibitor of the enzyme CYP2D6. This means it can dangerously increase the levels of other drugs processed by this enzyme, such as certain antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine) or antipsychotics (thioridazine, pimozide). Therefore, before taking this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines, to determine if it is safe to use along with Vizimpro. Take Vizimpro tablets orally once a day, as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medication for you depending on your condition. You may take the medication with or without food, but you must maintain a consistent daily schedule. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or split it before ingestion. Store the tablets at room temperature and keep them out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Vizimpro?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Vizimpro.