BRIGAMAKS Drug name: BRIGAMAKS Generic name: Brigatinib tablets/Brigatinib

Brigatinib (trade name: BRIGAMAKS) is a targeted therapy drug mainly used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) caused by ALK gene mutations . The following is the basic information of Brigatinib :

1. Drug classification :

• Brigatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that inhibits the growth of cancer cells by inhibiting the activity of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). It is used to treat ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) , especially for patients who are resistant or ineffective to other ALK inhibitors (such as crizotinib).

2. Indications :

• ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) : Brigatinib is used to treat adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer known to have ALK gene mutations, especially those who are resistant to crizotinib treatment.

3. Usage and dosage :

• Adults : Brigatinib is an oral medication with the recommended dose of:
  • Initial dose : 90 mg once daily (Days 1-7).
  • Maintenance dose : If the patient tolerates it well, the dose can be increased to 180 mg once daily starting on day 8.
  • Directions : May be taken with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, crushed or split.
• Dose adjustment : The dose may need to be adjusted based on the patient's tolerance, especially when severe side effects occur (such as pulmonary side effects, liver damage, etc.). If severe pneumonia or pulmonary side effects occur, treatment may need to be suspended or reduced.

4. Notes :

• Pulmonary side effects : Brigatinib may cause serious lung problems, including interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pneumonia. During use, patients should be closely monitored for symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and fever. If severe respiratory symptoms occur, treatment should be stopped immediately and appropriate evaluation should be performed.
• Liver function monitoring : Brigatinib may cause adverse effects on the liver, and patients should have their liver function (such as liver enzyme levels) checked regularly.
• QT interval prolongation : Brigatinib may cause QT interval prolongation on the electrocardiogram, especially when used in combination with other drugs. Therefore, regular electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is required during treatment.
• Pregnancy and lactation : Brigatinib may be harmful to the fetus, so this drug should be avoided during pregnancy. If used during pregnancy, you should inform your doctor and weigh the pros and cons. During lactation, you should avoid breastfeeding while using Brigatinib.
• Drug Interactions : Brigatinib may interact with certain medications, such as CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers. When taking Brigatinib, you should tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal remedies, and supplements.

5. Side effects :

• Common side effects :
  • Lung problems : including shortness of breath, cough, pneumonia, interstitial lung disease, etc.
  • Abnormal liver function : including jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, etc.
  • Digestive system symptoms : such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
  • Fatigue , headache, muscle pain, etc.
• Serious side effects :
  • Severe lung side effects (such as ILD or pneumonia): These can cause serious breathing problems and should be stopped immediately and treated.
  • Severe liver damage : May cause liver failure or jaundice.
  • QT interval prolongation : May cause arrhythmia, electrocardiogram monitoring is required.

6. Contraindications :

• Brigatinib is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to it or its components.
• During treatment, patients need to monitor their lung health and seek medical attention promptly if they experience obvious symptoms such as difficulty breathing and coughing.

7. Pregnancy and lactation :

• Pregnancy : Brigatinib may have adverse effects on the fetus, so pregnant women should avoid using this drug. If the drug must be used during pregnancy, the risks and benefits of treatment should be weighed.
• Lactation : Brigatinib may be secreted into breast milk, therefore lactating patients should avoid breastfeeding.

8. Storage :

• Brigatinib should be stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C) away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep medicines away from children to avoid accidental ingestion.

9. Other matters needing attention :

• During treatment, patients should regularly undergo lung function monitoring , liver function tests , electrocardiogram monitoring , etc. to ensure safe use of the drug.
• Brigatinib should be used with caution in patients with a history of severe lung disease or heart problems and adjusted under the guidance of a physician.

Summarize:

Brigatinib (Alunbrig) is a targeted therapy for ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer, especially for patients who are resistant or ineffective to crizotinib. Although Brigatinib can effectively control the growth of cancer, close monitoring of lung, liver function and heart health is required during use. Patients should follow their doctor's medication recommendations and undergo regular checkups to ensure safe treatment.

Please note : The above information is for reference only. Before using Brigatinib, patients should read the drug instructions in detail and discuss with their doctor or pharmacist to ensure the safe use of the drug.