Gavreto (pralsetinib)
Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: August 2023 | Last updated: August 2023
Gavreto™ (pralsetinib) is a targeted therapy that is used to treat some adults with metastatic (has spread to other parts of the body) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is positive for certain changes in a gene known as rearranged during transfection (RET). RET gene changes are found in about 1 to 2 percent of people with NSCLC.1,2
Gavretois the second RET-targeted therapy drug available in the United States. The other drug is RetevmoTM (selpercatinib). Having another drug available gives people with NSCLC more potential treatment options.1
How does Gavreto work?
Gavreto is a kinase inhibitor. This is a type of drug that blocks proteins that are found in some kinds of cancer cells. Blocking these proteins may slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. In people with NSCLC, Gavreto targets and blocks the RET protein.1-3
What are the possible side effects?
The most common side effects of Gavreto include:3
- Muscle and joint pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Swelling of your face, arms, legs, hands, and feet (edema)
- Fever
- Cough
These are not all the possible side effects of Gavreto. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Gavreto. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Gavreto.
Other things to know
If you plan to have surgery while taking Gavreto, let your doctor know ahead of time. Your doctor should instruct you on any potential adjustments to your treatment regimen before your surgery.3
Before starting treatment with Gavreto, tell your doctor if you have:3
- Lung or breathing problems other than lung cancer
- High blood pressure
- Bleeding problems
Gavreto can harm an unborn baby. If you or your partner can become pregnant, you should use birth control during treatment and for some time after the last dose of Gavreto. You should also not breastfeed during treatment with Gavreto and for some time after the last dose. Talk to your doctor about your options for birth control and breastfeeding while taking Gavreto.3
Gavreto can impact fertility in both men and women. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern for you.3
Before beginning treatment for lung cancer, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.
For more information, read the full prescribing information of Gavreto.
