Crizalk 250 Capsule

Description of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib 250mg) capsule

Crizalk 250 capsule contains Crizotinib 250mg that is a targeted anticancer pharmacologic agent used in the treatment of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) in patients that contains specific genomic aberrations. It is a member of the Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) group and its antineoplastic action is based in the selective inhibition of the aberrabt signalling cascades,which are the basis of the incontrolled tumour growth and spread. This targeted blockade suppresses the development of the disease and reduce the weight of tumours in diseased patients.

Indications of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Crizalk 250 capsules are mostly recommended in the treatment of ALK-positive and ROS1-positive NSCLC. The therapy is usually prescribed when the respective genomic changes are confirmed through molecular diagnostics and when they are considered to bring about more therapeutic advantage than standard cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Mechanism of action of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule 

Crizzotinib is a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor which work by being selective on the ALK (Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase) and ROS1 receptors found in certain cancerous cells of the lungs. Through the inhibition of these aberrant kinases, intracellular signalling pathways which regulate cellular proliferation and survival are impaired thereby limiting malignant cell multiplication and dissemination ultimately improving disease control.

How to consume of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Patients are supposed to take Crizotinib as per the prescription given to them by the clinician in terms of dosage and at the exact time. The capsule is usually administered on a daily basis either with or without food. I t is to be swallowed in large whole with water and should not be crushed, chewed or broken unless given special instructions by a medical practitioner.

Side Effects of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

1. Common side effects

• Feeling tired
• Headache
• Problems with diarrhea
• Mild swelling in hands or feet
• Appetite gets lower
• Skin rash

2. Serious side effects

• Chest pain, arrhythmia
• Hepatic malfunction
• Allergic issues
• Eye irritation
• Breathing difficulty

3. Rare side effects

• Low potassium level in blood
• Muscle spasm
• Mouth sores

Safety Advice for Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Patients on Crizotinib  are supposed to be subjected to regular medical checkups to identify the risk of adverse events such as skin reaction, intense diarrhea, dyspnea, and changes in hepatic lab tests. Clinicians can also prescribe regular haematological testing and renal functional evaluation under the condition of clinical situation of the patient.

Breastfeeding: This medicine should not be administered when one is on lactation because thers is a risk of therapeutic intervention in breast milk and may lead to a teratogenic or neonatal risk. Before the commencement, consultation with a trained medical professional is necessary.

Pregnancy: This medicine should not be used during pregnancy because it may be teratogenic. Potential women need to use effective contraceptive methods and are to receive specialist counselling before beginning therapy.

Alcohol: Must be limited or avoided because it can increase the rate of hepatotoxicity and mucosal gastrointestinal irritation.

Liver: In patients having hepatic pathology, the administration of Crizotinib  must be done with caution and treatment must be done under close medical supervision as it has a tendency of increasing hepatic enzymes..

Lungs: Lung pulmonary inflammation Interstitial lung disease is infrequently linked to Crizotinib . Patients who have a new cough, exacerbated cough, pyrexia, or dyspnea should consult the doctor immediately.

Kidney: Crizotinib  is not recommended in patients with renal insufficiency and dosage needs to be changed based on clinical evaluation.

Driving: The drug can cause vertigo, fatigue, or blurring of the vision. In case of such manifestation, patients will be advised not to drive a vehicle or operate a heavy piece of equipment.

Interaction of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

• Drug-Drug Interaction :

Apalutamide x Crizotinib

Crizotinib  should not be concomitantly used, as Crizotinib  decreases the effect of apalutamide by altering the hepatic enzymatic metabolism.

Ciprofloxacin x Crizotinib

The use of an alternative antimicrobial must be taken into account, since ciprofloxacin augments the action of Crizotinib  by inhibiting its metabolic disposition.

Dichlorphenamide x Crizotinib

The combination should be used with caution as the interaction lowers the levels of serum potassium.

Dexlansoprazole x Crizotinib

Another acid-suppressing drug is also advised, since dexlansoprazole reduces the impact of Crizotinib  by increasing gastric pH.

Siponimod x Crizotinib

It is recommended that clinical vigilance be observed because the combination might increase the risk of infection.

• Drug-Food Interaction:

Food:

Grapefruit must be avoided, if in the process of treatment, it may increase the levels ofsystemic drugs and as a result, induce bradycardia. The patient will need to visit the doctor immediately in case of the emergence of such symptoms like dizziness, feeling light-headed, dyspnea, bleeding, weight loss, chills, or diarrhea.

• Drug-Disease Interaction:

Dermatologic toxicities:

Prescription of this drug needs caution as reversible cutaneous reactions have been reported. To reduce sun induced dermatitis patients are recommended to cover their skin with sunscreen and hats.

GI disorders:

Prudent use of the drug is observed in people whose history of peptic ulceration because the drug is linked with gastrointestinal perforation.

Pulmonary toxicities:

Patients with the history of interstitial pneumonitis have to be considered carefully because the drug can trigger interstitial lung disease or fibrosis of the lungs.

Contraindication of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Crizalk 250 capsule contraindications include interstitial lung disease, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, gastrointestinal perforation and bullous eruptions.

Dosage of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Dose depends on the type of cancer. The doctor may make changes depending upon personal tolerance and how the treatment is working.

Storage of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

Capsules of Crizotinib  need to be kept somewhere with average room temperature conditions, protecting it from too much moisture or heat. You should always have them inside packet they are in and out of reach of children.

Missed Dose of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule

If you miss one capsule, just use planned next dose on the regular schedule. Taking two capsules together to replace a missed one is not required. Do not try to increase your next dose for this.

Other General Information of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule 

The long-term use can cause xerosis, hence use of an appropriate moisturizer. Enough hydration by drinking water and eating a proper diet must be promoted. Patients have to inform their physicians of any abnormal adverse events and they are supposed to do this regularly. To seek further advice depending on the case scenario, one is recommended to consult the prescribing clinician.

FAQs of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule 

1. Is it possible to concomitant Crizotinib with other medicine?

You should tell your doctor about the history of your medication on consultation given that there are drugs that can amplify the side effects

2. Is it safe to use sunscreen in combination with Crizotinib ?

Yes, broad-spectrum sunscreen hats or protective clothing are highly encouraged because the drug enhances photosensitivity of the skin, and lowers the risk of irritation and hyperpigmentaion

3. What type of food should I avoid taking when an Crizotinib ?

Foods with grapefruit or grapefruit juice are to be avoided since they increase the plasma drug levels and increase the chances of side effects, especially spicy or rich foods can contribute to gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea

4. Does Crizotinib have any impact on breathing?

In some extreme cases, pulmonary inflammation can present. The clinician must be informed immediately on the occurrence of new onset cough, chest tightness, or dyspnea.

5.What about when one feels extremely tired or lightheaded?

It is advisable that the person should alert his doctor when he experiences such symptoms. The doctor will then alter the dose of the same.

Fact Box of Crizalk 250 (Crizotinib  250mg) capsule  :

References

• Xalkori (crizotinib) Prescribing Information — FDA Label
  https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/208063s016lbl.pdf
• Xalkori – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)
  https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/xalkori-epar-product-information_en.pdf
• Crizotinib – DrugBank Drug Profile https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB08862
• Xalkori (crizotinib) – Mayo Clinic Drug Information.
  https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/crizotinib-oral-route/description/drg-20074542