Length of treatment course and long-term use recommendations of Osimertinib (Tagressa)

Osimertinib (Osimertinib) is a third-generation EGFRtyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI), mainly used for non-small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR sensitive mutations and T790M resistant mutations. Its mechanism of action is to selectively inhibit the mutant EGFR signaling pathway, block cancer cell proliferation and promote apoptosis. Clinically, osimertinib is usually administered as a once-daily oral long-term maintenance regimen, and the length of the treatment course is closely related to the patient's disease control, tolerance, and adverse reactions.

Normally, once osimertinib is started, the treatment course will not be set for a fixed time, but will be decided based on disease follow-up and imaging evaluation whether to continue or adjust the medication. Most patients require continued medication until disease progression, drug resistance, or serious adverse reactions occur. Studies have shown that continued medication can maintain stable blood drug concentrations, thereby maximizing the inhibition of tumor growth and delaying recurrence. Drug withdrawal may lead to rapid proliferation of cancer cells.

For patients with long-term use, imaging examinations and blood biochemical monitoring should be performed regularly to evaluate efficacy and safety. Particular attention needs to be paid to interstitial changes in the lungs, cardiac function, liver and kidney indicators, and blood image changes. If serious adverse reactions occur, short-term drug discontinuation, dose reduction or symptomatic treatment may be considered, and then whether to restore the original dose shall be decided based on the patient's tolerance and efficacy. During long-term use, doctors will develop an individualized plan based on efficacy and adverse reactions to ensure sustained efficacy and reduce risks.

In summary, the principle of osimertinib administration is "long-term maintenance and adjustment according to disease assessment." Patients should closely cooperate with their doctors during the course of treatment, regularly review imaging and clinical indicators, and record adverse reactions and symptom changes. Through standardized follow-up and scientific management, the vast majority of patients can achieve long-term treatment with stable efficacy and good disease control, while minimizing potential risks and improving quality of life.

Reference materials:https://www.drugs.com/