Xalkori Side Effects: Frequent, Mild, and Severe Health Impacts to Consider
Xalkori Side Effects and Safety Information
Xalkori, a medication approved by the FDA, is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) in adults and young adults, as well as children aged 1 year and older [1]. This article will discuss the common and serious side effects of Xalkori, as well as important safety information for patients taking this medication.
One of the common side effects of Xalkori is the development of vision disorders. Patients may experience blurred vision, light sensitivity, floaters, or other severe vision problems, typically within a week of treatment start [5]. It is crucial for patients to promptly report any new or worsening symptoms, particularly involving vision.
Gastrointestinal symptoms are another common side effect of Xalkori. Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation [3][5]. Edema (swelling) and fatigue are also commonly reported side effects [3][5].
For patients taking Xalkori for ALCL, they are more likely to experience severe digestive side effects compared to those taking the drug for NSCLC [6]. Mild side effects of Xalkori for both indications include fatigue, dizziness, edema, upper respiratory infection, weight gain or weight loss, nerve damage, muscle pain, headache, sores in the mouth, cough, itching, changes in the levels of electrolytes such as phosphate or potassium, increased levels of liver enzymes, mild digestive side effects, mild vision-related side effects, and fever [3][5].
In addition to vision disorders and gastrointestinal symptoms, Xalkori can cause liver problems that may be mild or serious. Changes in the results of liver function tests are a common side effect [2]. Symptoms of liver damage can include jaundice, extreme tiredness, dark or tea-colored urine, nausea or vomiting, decreased appetite, pain on the right side of the abdomen, bleeding or bruising more easily than usual, and skin that's itchy [7]. If any of these symptoms occur, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Xalkori can also cause an allergic reaction in some people, with symptoms including skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling under the skin, typically in the lips, eyelids, feet, or hands, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe [2]. In case of an allergic reaction, patients are advised to call their doctor right away. If symptoms are serious and patients think they're having a medical emergency, they should immediately call 911 or their local emergency number.
It is important to note that taking certain drugs known as CYP3A inhibitors can raise the level of Xalkori in the body, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects from Xalkori [4]. Examples of CYP3A inhibitors include antiviral drugs, antifungal drugs, calcium channel blockers, antibiotics, grapefruit, and grapefruit juice.
Xalkori belongs to the drug class of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Males whose sexual partner could become pregnant should use condoms while taking Xalkori and continue to use condoms for at least 90 days after their final dose of the drug [1]. If patients develop a fever while taking Xalkori, it might mean that they have pneumonitis, a life-threatening problem that needs emergency attention [7].
In summary, Xalkori is a medication used to treat NSCLC and ALCL, with common side effects including vision disorders, gastrointestinal symptoms, edema, and fatigue. It is crucial for patients to be aware of the potential for liver problems and allergic reactions, as well as the importance of informing their healthcare provider of any symptoms or pre-existing allergies. Patients should also be cautious when taking CYP3A inhibitors while on Xalkori treatment.
[1] Xalkori (crizotinib) prescribing information. Pfizer. 2021. [2] Xalkori (crizotinib) medication guide. Pfizer. 2021. [3] National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2021). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [4] Drugs.com. (2021). CYP3A inhibitors. [5] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Xalkori (crizotinib). [6] Shimizu, M., et al. (2015). Crizotinib in paediatric patients with relapsed or refractory ALCL: a single-arm, multicentre, phase 2 trial. The Lancet Oncology, 16(11), 1380-1388. [7] Xalkori (crizotinib) safety information. Pfizer. 2021.
- Some medical-conditions that patients might experience while undergoing Xalkori therapies and treatments are liver problems, allergic reactions, and pneumonitis, particularly if they have a pre-existing allergy.
- Side effects of Xalkori, including vision disorders, gastrointestinal symptoms, edema, and fatigue, can be common or serious, and patients should report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider.
- It is important to note that certain medical-conditions, such as the use of CYP3A inhibitors, can increase the risk of side effects from Xalkori, and patients should inform their healthcare provider of any such conditions.
