Have you been prescribed Crizotinib? Let's talk about this cancer drug in simple terms (Crizotinib Capsules)

When a doctor prescribes a new medication for someone battling cancer, it's normal to feel a little nervous and curious. "What will happen with this?", "How do I use this?", "Are there any side effects?" You probably have a lot of questions in your mind. That's why we're here to talk about the medicine you've been prescribed, Crizotinib, in a simple, easy-to-understand way. Imagine this as if a friend or family member is telling you about it.

Simply put, what is Crizotinib?

Crizotinib is a specific drug used to treat certain types of cancer. In our country, this drug is most commonly seen under the brand name XALKORI . This is a drug that works like a missile that hits its target.

Think of cancer cells as bad plants that grow out of control. There is a special protein that helps these bad plants grow and spread. It's like a pipe that supplies water to that bad plant. This drug called Crizotinib blocks that pipe, that special protein. Then the ability of cancer cells to grow and spread throughout the body is reduced, or it stops completely. This is how this drug helps control cancer.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication

Crizotinib is a very powerful drug, so it's important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your health before starting this treatment. Don't hide anything, even the smallest details. Every bit of information you share will help your doctor treat you safely.

Look at the table below. If any of these things apply to you, be sure to mention them.

How to use the medicine correctly?

To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.

• Swallow only: This medicine comes in a capsule. Do not break, crush, or chew it. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
• On time: Make it a habit to take your medicine at the same time every day. Take the correct dose, exactly as your doctor tells you.
• With or without food: This medicine can be taken before or after food. However, some people may experience slight stomach upset or nausea when taking it without food. If this happens, take the medicine with some food.
• Do not take with grapefruit juice: This is very important. Avoid taking this medication with grapefruit or grapefruit juice. This is because the ingredients in grapefruit juice can change the way the medication is absorbed by the body and increase side effects.
• If you vomit: If you vomit after taking the medicine, do not take another dose. Skip that time and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
• If you miss a dose:
• If it is more than 6 hours until your next dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• However, if it is less than 6 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
• Do not stop taking the medication: Even if you experience side effects or for any other reason, do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.

Overdose

If you have any suspicion that you have accidentally taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)

Other medications you are taking may interact with Crizotinib and cause unwanted effects. Therefore, it is essential to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (medicines for other diseases, vitamins, nutritional supplements, Sinhala medicines, Ayurvedic medicines).

Be especially careful with the following medications as they may interact with Crizotinib.

Things you should be careful about while taking the medicine

It is very important to pay attention to your body throughout the treatment period.

Regular medical checkups

Your doctor will check you regularly and schedule blood tests. Be sure to attend these regularly. These tests will help your doctor see how the medication is affecting your body and how your liver is functioning.

Take care of your eyesight.

Some people taking this medicine may experience changes in their vision. For example, blurred vision, seeing halos around lights, and the sensation that lights appear and disappear suddenly. If you experience any of these changes in your vision, tell your doctor right away.

Protect yourself from infections

Cancer drugs like Crizotinib can slightly weaken your body's immune system, which means you're more likely to get sick, especially infections.

• If you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, or cough , do not self-medicate. Call your doctor immediately.
• Avoid crowded places and places where people with illnesses are as much as possible.
• Wash your hands often with soap.
• When you have a fever, do not take medications like Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Panadol (Acetaminophen) without consulting your doctor to reduce it. These can suppress the fever and prevent the body from detecting an infection.

Protect yourself from the sun.

Your skin may become more sensitive to the sun while taking this medicine. Therefore,

• Avoid going out in the sun as much as possible.
• If you go outside, wear clothing that covers your body well and wear a hat.
• Ask your doctor and use a good sunscreen.

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility

This point is very important.

• During pregnancy: You should avoid getting pregnant completely while taking this medicine or for 45 days after stopping treatment. This medicine can cause serious birth defects in an unborn baby. You should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment to make sure you are not pregnant.
• For men: If you are taking Crizotinib and your partner is of childbearing potential, be sure to use a condom during sexual intercourse during treatment and for 90 days after stopping treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Avoid breastfeeding your baby during treatment and for 45 days after stopping treatment.
• Fertility: This medicine may affect fertility (ability to have children) in both women and men. If you have any concerns about this, discuss it openly with your doctor before starting treatment.

Side effects that may occur due to this medicine

Like any medicine, Crizotinib can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some are minor. But there are some things you should be aware of right away.