ALECENSA 150 MG (ALECTINIB)

🧬 Introduction & Mechanism

ALECensa 150mg Capsule should be taken in a dose as recommended by the doctor. You should continue to take it as long as your doctor advises for it. The duration of treatment varies according to your need and response to treatment. Your doctor may advice for regular monitoring of liver and kidney function while your taking this medicine.

• Generic Name (Salt): Alectinib (hydrochloride)

• Brand Name: Alecensa

• Manufacturer: Developed by Chugai/Roche, marketed by Genentech/Takeda

• Drug Class: Second‑generation, selective, irreversible ALK and RET tyrosine kinase inhibitor

• Indications:

  • First-line treatment for metastatic ALK-positive NSCLC

  • Treatment after progression on/intolerance to crizotinib

  • Recently approved (April 2024) as adjuvant therapy following surgical resection in early-stage ALK-positive NSCLC

💊 Formulation & Strength

• Capsule Strength: 150 mg

• Dosage Form: Oral capsules, taken with food

📋 Dosage & Administration

• Standard Dose: 600 mg twice daily (four 150 mg capsules per dose), with food; continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity

• Dose adjustments: Reduce to 450 mg twice daily if the patient has severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C)

⚠️ Common Side Effects

• Fatigue

• Constipation

• Peripheral edema

• Muscle pain 

• Anemia

• Nausea

• Visual effects, rash, myalgia and increased liver enzymes

⚠️ Serious Adverse Effects & Monitoring

• Liver toxicity: Monitor ALT/AST and bilirubin every 2 weeks for the first 3 months, then monthly

• Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis: Stop treatment if new/worsening respiratory symptoms occur

• Bradycardia, rare cardiac issues—monitor if symptomatic

• QT prolongation risk exists—monitor ECG and electrolytes as necessary

• Renal function: Monitor serum creatinine

• Hepatic impairment: Dose reduction or avoidance in moderate to severe cases

🌍 Availability in India

• Available through special import programs under prescription, via distributors like South Delhi Pharma, Indian Pharma Network, Lucknow Speciality Pharma, Cellegen Biopharma, Magicine Pharma, Indian Generic Medicines, and LifeSavingMeds

• How to access: Requires valid oncologist prescription, ALK-positive test, and patient documentation. Import via Named Patient Supply or private medical import channels

✅ Conclusion

Alecensa is a powerful, centrally acting ALK inhibitor proven to extend progression-free survival in ALK-positive NSCLC and now also effective in adjuvant settings. With a twice-daily dosing schedule, it’s well-tolerated but requires regular monitoring for liver, lung, heart, and blood-related side effects. It’s accessible in India through import pathways—close coordination with your oncologist is essential to ensure safe and timely access.