It is normal for a little fear and anxiety to come to your mind when you hear the words skin cancer. But we are lucky, because with the advanced medical science today, there are very effective treatments for such diseases. Sonidegib is a modern drug that is used to treat just such a type of skin cancer, especially `Basal Cell Carcinoma`. So today, let's talk about this drug in simple terms, how to use it, what to be careful about, and all the side effects.
What kind of medicine is Sonidegib?
Simply put, this is a type of medication called "targeted therapy." This means that this medication targets only cancer cells and stops their growth, without harming healthy cells. You will usually find this on the market under the brand name Odomzo. It is mainly used to control a type of skin cancer called `Basal Cell Carcinoma.'
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting this treatment, it is very important to clearly inform your doctor about the following:
- Whether you have had any muscle disorders before.
- Whether there is an allergic reaction to the drug Sonidegib, or to any other drug, food, or dye.
- If you are trying to get pregnant, or are currently pregnant, this is a must-mention. This is a very important point.
- If you are a nursing mother, please also inform us.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is essential to use it as directed.
- This medicine should be swallowed whole with a glass of water .
- Never break, crush, or chew this capsule. Doing so may affect the effectiveness of the medicine.
- This should be taken on an empty stomach . That is, one hour before or two hours after a meal. Do not take this with food.
- Another important thing is to avoid taking this medicine with grapefruit juice.
- Take your medicine every day, as prescribed, at the time your doctor prescribes. Do not stop taking your medicine without your doctor's advice.
- When you are prescribed this medicine, you will receive a special information leaflet (MedGuide) about it. It is important to read and understand it carefully each time.
If you suddenly miss a dose of medication, don't panic. Forget about the missed dose and take the next dose as usual the next day at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once just because you forgot.
What if I drink too much?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be especially careful about when taking medication
Pay special attention to these points for your safety and the success of your treatment while taking this medication.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (for women): This is the most important thing. Do not become pregnant for any reason while taking this medicine. Also, you should avoid becoming pregnant for 20 months after stopping the medicine. This medicine can cause severe birth defects or even death in an unborn baby. You should have a test to make sure you are not pregnant before starting the medicine. If you are a breastfeeding mother, do not breastfeed while taking the medicine and for 20 months after stopping the medicine.
- For men who want to father a child: Avoid fathering a child while taking this medicine and for 8 months after stopping it. If you have sex during this time , you must use a latex condom. This is necessary even if you have had a vasectomy. If your partner becomes pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Also, avoid sperm donation while taking this medicine and for 8 months after stopping it.
- Blood Donation: Do not donate blood while taking the medication and for 20 months after completing treatment. If the blood is given to a pregnant woman, she may be exposed to this medication.
- Medical tests: Your doctor will often order blood work to see how the medication is affecting your body while you are taking this medication. Be sure to get these tests done regularly.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, Sonidegib can cause some side effects. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor immediately | |
| Symptoms of muscle damage | Dark urine, difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine, unusual tiredness or fatigue, muscle pain, or back/leg pain. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Digestive system problems | Diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite |
| Other changes in the body | Hair loss, weight loss, taste changes, itching, headache, fatigue |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
A 'drug interaction' is when one medicine we take affects the action of another medicine we take. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medicines you take. Some of the medicines that may interact with Sonidegib are listed below.
- Some medications for fungal infections (e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole)
- Some medications for epilepsy (e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin)
- Drugs such as atazanavir and saquinavir
- Antibiotics such as erythromycin and telithromycin
- Rifampin, rifabutin
- Medicines to control stomach acid (e.g. omeprazole, famotidine)
- Herbal products such as St. John's Wort
This list is not complete. So, tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or traditional medicine you are taking. Also, don't forget to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Take-Home Message
- Sonidegib is a specific, targeted treatment for skin cancer. This medicine is prescribed for you only and should not be shared with others.
- Avoid getting pregnant while taking this medication and for 20 months after stopping. Men should avoid fathering children for 8 months after stopping the medication. This is very important.
- Always take the medicine on an empty stomach . Do not break, crush, or chew the capsules.
- If you experience symptoms such as muscle pain or dark urine, tell your doctor immediately .
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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