Health Library

Alectinib (By mouth)

Alectinib (al-EK-ti-nib)

Treats non-small cell lung cancer.

Brand Name(s):

Alecensa

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, or chew it.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: If you miss a dose or vomit after taking a dose, skip that dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. If you are a woman who can get pregnant, your doctor may do tests to make sure you are not pregnant before starting this medicine. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for at least 5 weeks after the last dose. Male patients with female partners should use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose.
• Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or a history of other lung or breathing problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Liver problems
  • Lung or breathing problems, including interstitial lung disease (ILD), pneumonitis
  • Kidney problems
  • Heart rhythm problems, including bradycardia
  • Muscle problems, including myalgia
  • Hemolytic anemia
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds during treatment and for at least 7 days after the last dose.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, cloudy urine
• Chest pain, cough, fever, trouble breathing
• Dark urine or pale stools, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Slow or uneven heartbeat
• Swelling in your hands, feet, or legs
• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, diarrhea
• Nausea, vomiting
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024