For treating cancer.
Brand Name(s): Alecensa
Generic Name: Alectinib
Instructions
Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.
Keep the medicine in its original container.
Take the medicine with food.
This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.
If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take an extra dose. Take your next dose at the usual time.
This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
This medicine may cause damage to your muscles. Please call your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual pain or weakness in your muscles.
This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.
Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.
This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.
Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.
Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 5 weeks after stopping to prevent pregnancy.
Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- blurry vision
- constipation
- dizziness
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- lack of energy and tiredness
- headaches
- nausea and vomiting
- weight gain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- bleeding that is severe or takes longer to stop
- chest pain
- cough that does not go away
- coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- fainting
- fever
- slow heartbeat
- lightheadedness
- signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
- muscle pain or weakness
- shortness of breath
- bloody or dark, tarry stools
- urinating less often
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about ALECTINIB - ORAL
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.