What should I do if I become drug-resistant after taking Vismodegib?

In 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Vismodegib (Vismodegib) for the treatment of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (laBCC) or metastatic basal cell carcinoma (mBCC). Vimodegib prevents activation of the SHH pathway by binding to and inhibiting SMO protein. Vimodegib resistance (mainly caused by SMO mutations) is an important issue in patients with laBCC or mBCC (with or without BCNS). Resistance to vismodegib in smaller basal cell carcinomas is more common in patients with BCNS.

Discontinuation of vismodegib may result in recurrence of basal cell carcinoma in its original location, indicating incomplete tumor elimination. It is hypothesized that inert cancer stem cells can re-form cancer cells when treatment is stopped. Treatment with vismodegib may only have suppressive properties. Sometimes, what was originally diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma may change so that Vimodegib is no longer suitable. Therefore, it is crucial to re-evaluate the condition and diagnosis. If vismodegib fails or resistance develops, switching to other targeted therapies may be considered. The development of cancer responses and the severity of side effects vary among individuals, so interruption and restarting of treatment with vismodegib should be based on patient burden.

The original drug of Vimodegib is not currently on the market in the country, so it cannot be included in medical insurance. Overseas, Vimodegiboriginal drug has Turkish version and European version, specificationsThe price of 150mg*28 capsules per box may be around RMB 10,000-30,000 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The price is very expensive, and there are currently no generic versions of Vimodegib. For more drug information and specific prices, please consult Yaodei Medical Consultants.