This medicine is imported from Europe. Rahika is made by Novartis and is the exact same product as the brand Tabrecta. Save over 60% on this medicine with insulinhub.
Rahika is Manufactured by:
Novartis
Oeflingerstrasse 44 D-79664
Wehr, Germany
Information about Rahika (Capmatinib)
Rahika, also known by its generic name capmatinib, is a medication used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a specific genetic mutation. It belongs to a class of drugs known as MET inhibitors, which work by blocking the activity of MET (mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor) proteins. These proteins are essential for the growth and survival of cancer cells. Capmatinib is specifically designed to target and inhibit MET exon 14 skipping mutations, a genetic alteration that is commonly seen in certain cancers, particularly in NSCLC.
Product Highlights
- Rahika (Capmatinib) is primarily indicated for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with MET exon 14 skipping mutations, either as a first-line or subsequent treatment. This includes NSCLC that has progressed after prior treatment or is considered advanced.
- While it is mainly approved for NSCLC, capmatinib is also under investigation for use in other cancers with MET alterations, such as certain types of renal cell carcinoma or other solid tumors, where MET mutations might be present.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Capmatinib offers a targeted approach by inhibiting the MET receptor, which is responsible for cancer cell growth in MET-altered cancers, especially in NSCLC.
- Clinical trials have demonstrated significant efficacy in patients with MET exon 14 mutations, leading to tumor shrinkage and improved progression-free survival.
- For patients with metastatic or advanced NSCLC who have already undergone previous therapies, capmatinib provides a valuable second-line treatment option.
- Rahika is taken as an oral tablet, providing convenience for patients compared to intravenous therapies.
Direction of Use
- Oral tablets.
- The usual dose of Rahika is 400 mg once daily, taken with or without food. The dosage may be modified depending on the patient's response and ability to tolerate the medication.
- The tablets should be swallowed whole. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, but not within 12 hours of the next dose.
- Regular monitoring of liver function, blood counts, and imaging for tumor response is necessary during treatment.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects
- Edema (swelling), particularly in the legs and feet.
- Fatigue and general weakness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Liver toxicity (elevated liver enzymes).
- Diarrhea and decreased appetite.
Serious side effects
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) may indicate liver damage, which can lead to more severe issues if left untreated.
- Rare, but potentially serious lung inflammation.
- There is a risk of bleeding, which may include nosebleeds or more serious bleeding.
- Decreased renal function in some patients.
Drug interactions
- Capmatinib may interact with other medications that impact the liver enzymes (CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers), which could affect the blood levels of capmatinib.
- Caution should be used when combining capmatinib with other cancer treatments that may also impact liver function or bone marrow.
Avoid Rahika (Capmatinib) If
- Patients with a known hypersensitivity to capmatinib or any of its ingredients should avoid using this medication.
- Rahika should not be used in patients with severe liver problems (e.g., severe hepatic impairment), as it may increase the risk of side effects and liver toxicity.
- Capmatinib is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential for harm to a developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid taking Rahika.
- Rahika should not be used by breastfeeding mothers, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
- Capmatinib may need to be avoided or used with caution in patients with significant kidney impairment.
- Patients with a history of ILD or related lung problems should avoid Rahika, as it may exacerbate lung issues.
