Tabrecta (capmatinib)
Tabrecta® (capmatinib) is a drug used to treat some adults with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body.1,2
Tabrecta is for people whose cancer has a specific mutation in the mesenchymal epithelial transition (MET) gene. When this gene is abnormal, it can cause cancer cells to grow.1
Tabrecta is the first drug approved for this type of NSCLC. Your doctor will perform a genetic test to find out whether your cancer falls into this category and whether Tabrecta might be right for you.1
How does Tabrecta work?
Tabrecta belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors. Kinase inhibitors treat different types of cancer by changing how cells grow.1,3
NSCLC cells with an abnormal MET gene may grow and divide when they are not supposed to. This is what causes the cancer to grow and spread to other parts of the body. Tabrecta targets the MET gene and the signals it makes that tell cells to grow. By stopping this gene and its signals, Tabrecta may stop or slow cancer cell growth.1
Possible side effects
The most common side effects of Tabrecta include:2
- Swelling of the hands or feet (edema)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
There are also some serious side effects that may occur when taking Tabrecta, including:
- Lung or breathing problems (cough, fever, trouble breathing)
- Liver problems (jaundice, dark urine, confusion, stomach pain)
- Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
This is not a full list of all possible side effects. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Tabrecta. If you show any signs of these side effects or any other changes that concern you while you are taking Tabrecta, call your doctor right away.
Other things to know
Your doctor should run a blood test to check your liver function before you start taking Tabrecta. While you are taking it, you will need regular blood tests to monitor your liver health.2
You should limit your time in the direct sun and wear clothes and sunscreen that protect your skin while taking this medicine.2
Tabrecta is not safe to take while pregnant. Both men and women should use birth control during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose. Doctors do not know if this drug is safe to take while breastfeeding.2
Tabrecta has not been tested on children, so doctors do not know yet if it is safe or effective for them to take.1
Before taking Tabrecta, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs. Tabrecta may interact with other prescription and over-the-counter drugs and supplements.1
For more information, read the full prescribing information for Tabrecta.
