Description
Briganix (Brigatinib): A Targeted Anti-Cancer Therapy
Overview of Briganix (Brigatinib):
Briganix, also known by its generic name Brigatinib, is a targeted anti-cancer (antineoplastic) medication classified as both an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor and a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It is designed to treat specific types of cancer, particularly those related to ALK mutations.
How Briganix Works:
Briganix (Brigatinib) is a targeted therapy, not a traditional chemotherapy drug. Originally called AP26113, Brigatinib is a reversible dual inhibitor of ALK and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It shows selectivity against mutant forms of EGFR and is effective against multiple Crizotinib-resistant mutations of the EML4-ALK fusion gene, which is crucial in the transformation of lung tissue.
Brigatinib inhibits cell proliferation and viability in vitro for cells expressing the EML4-ALK fusion protein and 17 Crizotinib-resistant ALK mutants. It also targets cells with EGFR deletions and mutations like ROS1-L2026M, FLT3-F691L, and FLT3-D835Y. In mouse EML4-ALK xenograft models, Brigatinib shows dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition and increased survival, though exposure-response studies remain incomplete.
Mechanism of Action:
Brigatinib is a broad-spectrum kinase inhibitor with activity against ALK and other factors. Kinases are enzymes that promote cell growth and division. In non-small cell lung cancer with ALK mutations, Brigatinib blocks pathways crucial for cancer cell division by binding to ALK and related factors.
Administration of Briganix:
- Briganix is available in tablet form and can be taken with or without food.
- Swallow the tablets whole with at least 8 oz. of water; do not crush, chew, or dissolve them.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Briganix.
- Take Brigatinib at the same time each day as prescribed.
- Do not adjust your dose or discontinue Brigatinib without consulting your healthcare provider.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible on the same day and resume the regular schedule the following day. Do not double up on doses.
- In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
- Store Briganix at room temperature (68° F to 77° F) in its original container, away from humidity, moisture, and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
The dosage of Briganix is determined by various factors, including your height, weight, overall health, and the specific type of cancer being treated. Your doctor will establish the appropriate dosage and schedule for you.
Side Effects of Briganix (Brigatinib):
Important Considerations:
- Not all patients will experience every side effect.
- Side effects are often predictable regarding onset, duration, and severity.
- Most side effects are reversible and subside after treatment ends.
- The presence or severity of side effects is not directly related to the drug’s effectiveness.
- Many side effects can be managed or prevented with appropriate measures.
Common Side Effects (Occurring in >30% of Patients):
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Increased creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels
- Elevated amylase and/or lipase (pancreatic enzymes)
- Nausea
- Anemia (low red blood cell count)
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Cough
Less Common Side Effects (Occurring in 10-29% of Patients):
- Headache
- Reduced lymphocyte count (a type of white blood cell)
- Shortness of breath
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Decreased phosphorus levels
- Reduced appetite
- Increased partial thromboplastin time (may increase bleeding risk)
- High blood pressure
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Muscle spasms
- Back pain
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fever
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Insomnia
- Limb pain
- Vision changes (blurred or double vision, reduced visual acuity)
AFANIX (AFATINIB) 40MG TABLETS 30`S
