Dacomitinib, with the English name Dacomitinib, is a potent second-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. While patients and their family members focus on its therapeutic effects, they also need to understand Dacomitinib's purchase channels, drug interactions, and potential side effects.
Purchase Channels of Dacomitinib
In China, Dacomitinib has been launched and included in the national medical insurance system. Patients can purchase it with a prescription at formal large-scale hospitals or designated pharmacies. Dacomitinib bought through this channel is guaranteed in quality, and patients can enjoy the preferential policies of medical insurance to reduce their economic burden.
Overseas Drug Purchase Channels
Patients may consider purchasing Dacomitinib through formal overseas pharmacies or medical institutions. When buying drugs overseas, patients must be alert to counterfeit and shoddy products and must choose channels with a good reputation. They also need to understand and abide by the laws and regulations of the relevant countries or regions.
Charitable Drug Donation Programs
To alleviate the economic burden on patients, some pharmaceutical companies or charitable organizations launch drug donation programs. Patients can learn about the drug donation policies and application procedures for Dacomitinib by following the official websites or social media platforms of these institutions. Eligible patients can submit application materials as required, and after passing the review, they can receive a certain amount of free drugs.
Drug Interactions of Dacomitinib
The co-administration of Dacomitinib with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can significantly reduce its plasma concentration, which may affect its therapeutic effect.
Interaction with Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
During the use of Dacomitinib, concurrent use of PPIs should be avoided. If patients really need to use antacid drugs, it is recommended to use locally acting preparations or histamine 2 (H2) receptor antagonists, and adjust the medication time to reduce the interaction with Dacomitinib.
Effect on CYP2D6 Substrates
Dacomitinib can increase the plasma concentration of CYP2D6 substrates. For certain CYP2D6 substrates that can cause severe or life-threatening toxicity even with a slight increase in concentration, co-administration with Dacomitinib should be avoided. Before using Dacomitinib, patients should inform their doctors of other drugs they are taking, so that the doctors can evaluate the potential drug interactions and adjust the medication plan.
Side Effects of Dacomitinib
These side effects are usually mild and can be alleviated through symptomatic treatment and adjustment of medication dosage.
Common Side Effects
During Dacomitinib treatment, patients may experience common side effects such as diarrhea, rash, paronychia, and stomatitis. Patients should pay close attention to their own reactions while using Dacomitinib. If severe or persistent side effects occur, they should seek medical attention in time and inform the doctor.
Severe Side Effects
Some patients may experience severe side effects such as interstitial lung disease (ILD) and severe diarrhea during Dacomitinib treatment. ILD may cause symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and fever. Once these symptoms appear, Dacomitinib should be discontinued immediately and corresponding treatment should be given.
For women of childbearing age, effective contraceptive measures should be taken during the use of Dacomitinib to avoid potential fetal risks.
