0

Home > Drug Category > Cancer Medications > Zykadia and Equivalent

Zykadia (Ceritinib) Information

Zykadia, which contains the active ingredient ceritinib, is a targeted therapy medication, a second-generation ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat adults with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours are "ALK-positive". This means the cancer cells have a specific genetic rearrangement that drives their growth. The medication is taken by mouth as a tablet or capsule, typically 450 mg (three 150 mg tablets/capsules) once daily with food, though this varies by prescription. In the past, Zykadia was taken on an empty stomach, but current guidelines generally recommend taking it with food to reduce the risk of stomach-related side effects. It is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels.

The mechanism of action involves blocking the activity of the mutated ALK protein. In ALK-positive lung cancer, this protein is overactive, sending constant signals to cancer cells to divide and spread. By binding to this protein and blocking those signals, Zykadia can shrink tumours or slow tumour progression, even if the cancer has spread to the brain.

Zykadia Side Effects

Zykadia is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Other frequent issues include feeling very tired (fatigue), decreased appetite, and constipation.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Heart Rhythm Changes: Feeling like your heart is skipping a beat, racing, or pounding, or feeling dizzy or faint.
• High Blood Sugar: Extreme thirst or frequent urination.
• Liver Problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pain in the upper right stomach area.
• Lung Inflammation (Pneumonitis): New or worsening cough, chest pain, or trouble breathing.
• Pancreatitis: Severe pain in the upper stomach that spreads to your back, often with nausea and vomiting.
• Severe Digestive Issues: Severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting that does not improve with anti-nausea medicine.

Zykadia Precautions

Do not use Zykadia if you have a known allergy to ceritinib or any of the inactive ingredients in the medication. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of liver problems, diabetes, or heart conditions (especially Long QT syndrome). While you are taking Zykadia, your doctor will perform regular blood tests to monitor your liver function and blood sugar levels. You may also receive periodic EKGs (electrocardiograms) to check your heart rhythm and ensure the medication is not affecting your heart’s electrical activity.

Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements (such as St. John's wort). Zykadia has significant interactions with many drugs, especially those that affect liver enzymes, such as certain antifungals or antibiotics, which can dangerously change the level of Zykadia in your blood. You should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice, as it can dangerously increase the levels of Zykadia in your body.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Zykadia can cause serious harm to a developing fetus and must not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the final dose. Men with partners who can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Zykadia and for 2 weeks after the last dose.

Take Zykadia exactly as your doctor tells you. Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water. Do not open, crush, or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless your next dose is due in less than 12 hours. In that case, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses at once. Store the medication at room temperature away from moisture and light, and keep it safely out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Zykadia?

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