Selumetinib is a targeted drug specifically designed for the treatment of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated plexiform neurofibromas (PN). This article will provide a detailed description of the dosage of Selumetinib, precautions for use, and the dietary structure that patients should adopt to help patients and their families better understand and use the drug.
Selumetinib dosage
Following your doctor's guidance for dose adjustments is important to maintain efficacy and reduce side effects.
Recommended dose
The recommended dose of Selumetinib is given by body surface area (BSA) at a single recommended dose of 25 mg/m² orally twice daily (approximately every 12 hours). The dose administered is calculated individually based on body surface area and rounded to the nearest dose of 5 mg or 10 mg (the maximum dose for a single dose is 50 mg).
Missed dose management and vomiting coping
If you forget to take the medication, you can only take it if it is more than 6 hours before the next dose. If vomiting occurs after taking the drug, no additional supplemental dose is required and the next dose should be given as planned.
Proper management of missed doses and response to vomiting can help maintain stable blood levels and improve treatment outcomes.
Dose adjustment regimen
Considering individual safety and tolerability, Selumetinib may need to be suspended, tapered, or permanently discontinued. A specialist should be consulted for specific taper regimens, and the patient's response should be monitored regularly.
By regularly assessing the patient's response and adjusting the treatment regimen accordingly, the treatment effect can be optimized and adverse effects can be reduced.
Precautions for Selumetinib
Paying close attention to changes in heart function and adjusting treatment strategies in a timely manner can help prevent serious heart complications. Regular eye exams and early detection of vision problems can effectively manage the risk of visual toxicity.
Cardiomyopathy surveillance
Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) should be assessed by echocardiography prior to initiation of treatment, every three months for the first year of treatment, and every six months thereafter, and as clinically indicated. If the LVEF is less than ≥10% of baseline, Selumetinib should be suspended, reduced, or permanently discontinued.
See-to-toxicity management
Selumetinib may cause serious visual toxicity, including retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and retinal pigment epithelium detachment (RPED). It is recommended to have a full ophthalmologic evaluation before initiating treatment and at regular intervals during treatment to assess changes in visual acuity.
Gastrointestinal toxicity and skin toxicity
Selumetinib may cause gastrointestinal toxicity (e.g., diarrhea, colitis, etc.) and skin toxicity (e.g., skin rash, acne-like rash, etc.). Take antidiarrheal drugs (such as loperamide) immediately when unformed loose stools occur and increase fluid intake; Monitor for severe rashes.
Proactive management and coping with these common side effects not only reduces patient discomfort but also improves treatment adherence.
Diet of Selumetinib patients
A healthy diet can help improve overall health and support the body's needs during treatment. Adequate protein intake can help promote wound healing and support the immune system.
The importance of a balanced diet
While receiving Selumetinib treatment, patients should maintain a balanced diet and increase their intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables to boost the immune system. Avoid foods high in fat and sugar, which may add to the burden on the body.
Protein intake
Protein is important for repairing tissues and maintaining muscle mass. Patients should increase their intake of high-quality proteins, such as lean meats, fish, legumes, and nuts.
Hydration
Maintaining adequate water intake is important for maintaining normal metabolism and detoxification of the body. Increasing fluid intake is especially important when gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea occur.
Adequate hydration will not only help alleviate side effects, but also maintain good physical condition.
