How to deal with adverse reactions caused by capmatinib?

is a targeted drug used to treat patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) carrying MET exon 14 skipping mutations. Although capmatinib has shown good efficacy in clinical application, like all drugs, it may also cause some adverse reactions. The following is an introduction to common adverse reactions of capmatinib and how to deal with them.

Common adverse reactions and treatment methods

1. Peripheral edema: This is one of the common side effects of capmatinib treatment. Patients may experience swelling in their extremities. Management includes elevating the affected limb, wearing compression stockings, and reducing sodium intake. In cases where edema seriously affects daily activities, it may be necessary to suspend treatment and adjust the dosage or seek other treatment options under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting may occur during the initial stage of capmatinib treatment. To reduce these symptoms, doctors may advise patients to adopt appropriate dietary habits, such as avoiding greasy and spicy foods, and may give anti-nausea medications.

3. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is also one of the possible adverse reactions of capmatinib. Patients should maintain good eating habits and take appropriate medication according to the doctor's recommendations.

4. Interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis: Patients treated with capmatinib may develop ILD/pneumonitis, which is a serious adverse reaction and may be fatal. If you develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cough, or fever, you should contact your doctor immediately. In cases where ILD/pneumonitis is confirmed, capmatinib may need to be discontinued immediately and, if appropriate, permanently.

5. Hepatotoxicity: Capmatinib may cause hepatotoxic reactions such as increased ALT/AST. Patients should have liver function monitored regularly during treatment. If hepatotoxicity occurs, dose adjustment or discontinuation of capmatinib may be necessary based on severity.

6. Photosensitivity: According to animal studies, capmatinib has a potential risk of photosensitivity reaction. Patients are advised to take measures to prevent UV exposure during treatment, such as using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing, and to limit direct UV exposure.

7. Embryo-fetal toxicity: Capmatinib may cause harm to the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women or women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and discuss with their doctor before planning a pregnancy.

Capmatinib, as a potent MET inhibitor, plays an important role in the treatment of specific types of non-small cell lung cancer. However, some adverse reactions may also occur during treatment. It is recommended that patients should closely monitor their physical reactions when using capmatinib and communicate with their doctors in a timely manner if adverse reactions occur so that appropriate management and treatment measures can be taken. Through reasonable drug management and physician guidance, most adverse reactions can be effectively controlled.