Dacomitinib, also known by other names such as Vizimpro, Dacoplice, is mainly used for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with positive epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. It has been launched in China and included in the national medical insurance catalog. Patients and their family members pay special attention to issues such as the purchasing channels of Dacomitinib. So, what are the purchasing channels for Dacomitinib?
What Are the Purchasing Channels for Dacomitinib?
The channels for obtaining Dacomitinib mainly vary depending on the patient's location, drug regulatory policies, and economic conditions.
Purchasing through Formal Medical Channels
In China, Dacomitinib has been launched and included in the medical insurance catalog. Patients can purchase it through formal hospitals or designated pharmacies with a prescription issued by a doctor. Dacomitinib bought through this channel is guaranteed in terms of quality, and patients can enjoy medical insurance reimbursement, which reduces the economic burden.
Overseas Drug Purchase
For patients seeking more economical drug purchase channels, purchasing from overseas can be considered. For example, the original Dacomitinib (Pfizer-exported Indian version) with a specification of 45mg*30 capsules is priced at approximately $858 per box. However, when purchasing drugs overseas, it is necessary to pay attention to verifying the authenticity of the drugs and whether they comply with the import regulations of the country or region where the patient is located.
Charitable Assistance Programs
Some pharmaceutical companies or non-profit organizations provide charitable assistance programs for patients with financial difficulties, including drug donations and discount coupons. Patients and their family members can actively pay attention to such information to reduce the economic pressure.
Precautions for Dacomitinib Use in Special Populations
Special attention should be paid to the medication safety of Dacomitinib when used in special populations.
Pregnant and Lactating Women
The use of Dacomitinib in pregnant women may cause harm to the fetus, so pregnant women should avoid using it. Women of childbearing age should undergo a pregnancy test before using Dacomitinib and take effective contraceptive measures during treatment and for at least 17 days after stopping the drug. Lactating women should avoid breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients and Patients with Hepatic or Renal Impairment
When elderly patients use Dacomitinib, the incidence of adverse reactions and the rate of dose interruption or reduction may be higher. Therefore, elderly patients need to be more cautious, closely monitor adverse reactions, and adjust the dose according to specific conditions. For patients with hepatic or renal impairment, no dose adjustment is required for those with mild to moderate impairment, but the recommended dose for patients with severe impairment has not been established.
Side Effects of Dacomitinib
Understanding the side effects of Dacomitinib is very important for patients and their family members.
Common Side Effects
The most common adverse reactions of Dacomitinib include diarrhea, rash, paronychia, stomatitis, and decreased appetite. Most of these side effects are mild to moderate and can be relieved through symptomatic treatment.
Severe Side Effects and Countermeasures
Severe side effects include interstitial lung disease, life-threatening diarrhea, and exfoliative skin reactions. Once these symptoms occur, Dacomitinib should be discontinued immediately, and the patient should seek medical attention in a timely manner. For patients with diarrhea, anti-diarrheal treatment should be started immediately; for skin adverse reactions, moisturizers, topical antibiotics, and steroids should be used for treatment.
During the medication period, patients should strictly follow the doctor's advice and pay attention to observing physical reactions.
