XALKORI 250 MG 60 CAP

XALKORI (Crizotinib) is a targeted therapy medication used primarily in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is an oral capsule that works by inhibiting specific proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. XALKORI is particularly effective in patients whose cancer is characterized by mutations in the ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) or ROS1 genes. By specifically targeting these abnormal proteins, XALKORI can help slow or stop the progression of cancer.

How XALKORI Works

Mechanism of Action

1. Targeted Inhibition:
   • XALKORI is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that specifically targets and inhibits the activity of ALK, ROS1, and MET proteins. These proteins are critical for the growth and survival of certain cancer cells.
2. Disruption of Cancer Cell Signaling:
   • ALK and ROS1 gene rearrangements or mutations lead to abnormal signaling pathways that promote cancer cell proliferation and survival. By inhibiting these kinases, XALKORI disrupts these signaling pathways, hindering cancer cell growth.
3. Induction of Apoptosis:
   • The drug causes cancer cells to undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis), reducing tumor size and slowing disease progression.
4. Selective Action:
   • XALKORI is designed to selectively target only cancer cells with ALK or ROS1 mutations, minimizing the impact on normal, healthy cells.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Vision Disorders:
  • Blurred vision, double vision, and light sensitivity are common due to the drug’s effect on the retina.
• Nausea and Vomiting:
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms are frequent but can often be managed with supportive care.
• Diarrhea and Constipation:
  • Changes in bowel habits are commonly reported among patients.
• Edema:
  • Swelling, particularly in the hands, feet, and around the eyes.
• Fatigue:
  • A general feeling of tiredness that can affect daily functioning.
• Decreased Appetite:
  • Loss of appetite, which may contribute to weight loss during treatment.
• Dizziness:
  • Lightheadedness or feeling faint, potentially affecting balance.

Serious Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity:
  • Liver toxicity is a serious side effect that requires monitoring of liver function tests.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)/Pneumonitis:
  • Inflammation of lung tissue can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
• QT Prolongation:
  • Abnormal heart rhythms that can be serious or even fatal if not managed.
• Neutropenia:
  • Low levels of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), increasing infection risk.
• Bradycardia:
  • Slowed heart rate, which may require dose adjustments or discontinuation.
• Vision Loss:
  • Rare cases of severe vision loss necessitate immediate medical attention.

Indications

XALKORI is indicated for the treatment of:

• ALK-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
  • First-line treatment for patients with metastatic NSCLC harboring ALK gene rearrangements.
• ROS1-Positive NSCLC:
  • Used in patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have ROS1 gene rearrangements.
• Metastatic ALK-Positive Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor (IMT):
  • A rare indication for pediatric patients over one year of age.

Contraindications

XALKORI should not be used in the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to Crizotinib or Any Component of the Formulation:
  • Contraindicated in patients with known allergies to XALKORI.
• Severe Hepatic Impairment:
  • Patients with significant liver dysfunction are at increased risk of toxicity.
• Pregnancy:
  • XALKORI can cause fetal harm; it is contraindicated in pregnant women due to potential teratogenic effects.
• Severe Bradycardia:
  • Contraindicated in patients with symptomatic bradycardia due to its potential to worsen the condition.
• QT Prolongation:
  • Patients with congenital long QT syndrome or uncorrected electrolyte imbalances should avoid XALKORI.

Price in Different Countries

The cost of XALKORI 250 mg 60 CAP varies by country, influenced by healthcare policies, availability, and insurance coverage. Below is a table showing the approximate price in different countries.

Country	Price (Per 60 Capsules)	Reference
United States	$14,000 – $15,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£10,500 – £12,000	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $18,000 – $19,500	Canada Drugs
Australia	AUD $19,500 – $21,000	PBS Australia
India	₹950,000 – ₹1,050,000	1mg

Top 5 Global Brands

1. XALKORI (Crizotinib) – Pfizer:
   • The original and most widely recognized brand, used globally for treating ALK-positive NSCLC.
2. Natco Crizotinib – Natco Pharma:
   • A generic version available in India, offering a more affordable alternative for patients.
3. Teva Crizotinib – Teva Pharmaceuticals:
   • Provides a generic option available in various European countries, offering cost-effective treatment.
4. Dr. Reddy’s Crizotinib – Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories:
   • Known for its high-quality generic formulations, available primarily in Asian and African markets.
5. Mylan Crizotinib – Mylan:
   • A trusted generic alternative available in North America and Europe.