RETEVMO 40MG/ 80MG (SELPERCATINIB)

Retevmo (generic name: selpercatinib) is a prescription medication developed by Eli Lilly and Company. It is primarily used to treat cancers associated with abnormalities in the RET gene, including certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and other solid tumors. Retevmo functions as a targeted therapy by inhibiting the RET kinase, a protein that contributes to cancer cell growth when mutated or fused.

💊 Dosage Forms

• Capsules: 40 mg and 80 mg

• Tablets: 40 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg, and 160 mg

The 80 mg capsule is blue and oblong, imprinted with “Lilly 2980 80 mg” .

🧬 Indications

Retevmo is indicated for:

• Adults and children aged 2 years and older with advanced or metastatic RET fusion-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Adults and children aged 2 years and older with advanced or metastatic RET mutation-positive medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)

• Adults and children aged 2 years and older with advanced or metastatic RET fusion-positive thyroid cancer who require systemic therapy and are refractory to radioactive iodine

• Adults and children aged 2 years and older with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors harboring a RET gene fusion that have progressed on or following prior systemic treatments or have no satisfactory alternative treatment options

⚖️ Dosage Guidelines

The recommended dosage varies based on age, weight, and body surface area (BSA):

  Adults and adolescents (≥12 years):

• • Weighing ≥50 kg: 160 mg orally twice daily

  • Weighing <50 kg: 120 mg orally twice daily

• Pediatric patients (2 to <12 years):

  • BSA 0.33–0.65 m²: 40 mg orally three times daily

  • BSA 0.66–1.08 m²: 80 mg orally twice daily

  • BSA 1.09–1.52 m²: 120 mg orally twice daily

  • BSA ≥1.53 m²: 160 mg orally twice daily

Dosage adjustments may be necessary in cases of hepatic impairment or when coadministered with strong CYP3A inhibitors .

⚠️ Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Edema (swelling), diarrhea, fatigue, dry mouth, abdominal pain, constipation, rash, nausea, and headache

Serious side effects may include:

• Liver problems (e.g., jaundice, dark urine, nausea)

• Lung issues (e.g., shortness of breath, cough, fever)

• High blood pressure

• Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)

• Bleeding problems

• Allergic reactions

• Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)

• Wound healing issues

• Thyroid hormone imbalances

• Hip joint problems in children

Regular monitoring through blood tests and clinical assessments is recommended during treatment.

⚠️ Warnings and Precautions

• Liver Function: Monitor liver enzymes regularly; withhold or discontinue treatment if significant abnormalities occur.

• Lung Health: Be vigilant for signs of interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis; immediate medical attention is required if symptoms develop.

• Blood Pressure: Regularly check blood pressure; manage hypertension as needed.

• Heart Rhythm: Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring may be necessary due to potential QT prolongation.

• Bleeding Risk: Exercise caution in patients with bleeding disorders.

• Allergic Reactions: Discontinue if severe reactions occur.

• Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Stay well-hydrated and monitor for symptoms.

• Wound Healing: Discontinue at least 7 days before planned surgery; consult healthcare provider for resumption.

• Thyroid Function: Monitor thyroid hormone levels; adjust treatment as necessary.

• Pregnancy: Avoid use during pregnancy; may harm the fetus.

📌 Important Notes

• Administration: Take Retevmo orally, with or without food.

• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the time for the next dose; do not double doses.

• Drug Interactions: Inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

• Fertility: May affect fertility; discuss concerns with a healthcare provider.

• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess treatment efficacy and manage potential side effects