Selpercatinib(Retevmo) is an oral targeted drug that is primarily used to treat specific types of CA. Its indications mainly include the following aspects.
Indications for Selpercatinib(Retevmo)
Non-small cell lung CA(NSCLC)
Selpercatinib is particularly indicated for patients with metastatic RET fusion-positive non-small cell lung CA who have been treated with platinum-based chemotherapy and one PD-1 or PD-L1 immunotherapy. These patients usually require systemic therapy (systemic therapy) to control the progression of the disease.
Medullary thyroid CA(MTC)
Selpercatinib is also an effective treatment option for patients with RET-mutant medullary thyroid CA who have progressed on prior therapy and for whom there are no acceptable alternative treatment options. Both adult patients and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older can be considered for treatment with Selpercatinib as long as these conditions are met.
Thyroid CA
In addition to medullary thyroid CA, Selpercatinib is also indicated for patients with advanced or metastatic RET fusion-positive thyroid CA. These patients usually require systemic therapy and may be refractory to radioactive iodine if radioactive iodine is an appropriate treatment option. Both adult patients and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older can be considered for Selpercatinib as long as these conditions are met.
The use of Selpercatinib should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, and the patient should follow the doctor's advice and instructions for the administration. Patients should pay close attention to any possible side effects during use and maintain good lifestyle habits to maximize the effectiveness of the drug.
How to maintain a good lifestyle while using Selpercatinib(Retevmo)?
Eat a reasonable diet
The diet should be light and easy to digest, which can help reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. Appropriately increasing the intake of protein, such as fish, lean meat, legumes, etc., can help strengthen the body's resistance. Getting enough fibre and eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help prevent constipation. Avoid excessive intake of greasy, spicy, and irritating foods to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Exercise moderately
According to the physical condition, moderate exercise, such as walking, jogging, yoga, etc., is conducive to improving physical fitness and immunity, and reducing fatigue. Avoid strenuous exercise and overexertion to avoid putting a strain on the body. Getting enough sleep helps the body recover and improve immunity.
Maintain a moisture balance
Selpercatinib may cause side effects such as dry mouth, so patients should maintain adequate fluid intake to help relieve dry mouth symptoms. Be careful not to drink too many caffeinated or alcoholic beverages to avoid affecting your body's water balance.
Monitor for side effects
Selpercatinib may cause a range of side effects such as fatigue, edema, high blood pressure, etc. Patients should pay close attention to their physical reactions and inform their doctor promptly if they feel unwell or abnormal. Regular blood tests, liver function tests, etc., are done to monitor the effects of medications on the body.
During the use of Selpercatinib, patients should maintain a good lifestyle, including a reasonable diet, moderate exercise, maintaining water balance, monitoring side effects, following doctor's instructions, psychological adjustment, and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol. These measures can help reduce drug side effects, improve treatment outcomes, and improve patients' quality of life.
