Cerixen 150 mg (Ceritinib INN) 

Indications:

Cerixen (Ceritinib 150 mg) is indicated for the treatment of:

• ALK-positive metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Patients who have progressed on or are intolerant to Crizotinib

• Newly diagnosed ALK-positive NSCLC

• ALK-driven tumors as recommended by an oncologist

Ceritinib is used as a targeted therapy specifically for cancers with ALK gene rearrangement.

💊 Pharmacology:

Ceritinib is a potent and selective ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) inhibitor.

Mechanism of action:

• Blocks ALK receptor tyrosine kinase

• Inhibits downstream signaling pathways such as JAK–STAT, PI3K–AKT, and RAS–MAPK

• Reduces cancer cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis

• Highly effective in ALK-positive advanced or metastatic lung cancer

Ceritinib also demonstrates activity against certain Crizotinib-resistant ALK mutations.

💉 Dosage & Administration:

• Recommended dose:
  👉 150 mg once daily, taken with food

• Swallow capsules whole; do not crush or chew

• Continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity

• Dose adjustments may be required based on side effects

• Therapy must be initiated by an oncology specialist

⚠️ Precautions & Warnings:

• Monitor liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) regularly

• May cause hyperglycemia — monitor blood glucose

• Increased risk of interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pneumonitis

• Use caution in patients with cardiac disorders

• Not recommended in severe hepatic impairment

• Can cause QT prolongation — ECG monitoring may be required

• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice during therapy

❌ Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Ceritinib or any component of the formulation

• Severe hepatic impairment (risk of toxicity)

• Uncontrolled heart problems or arrhythmias

🤰 Pregnancy & Lactation:

• Pregnancy: Not recommended; teratogenic effects may occur

• Lactation: Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 2 weeks after the final dose

• Women of reproductive age must use effective contraception

• May affect male fertility

⚕️ Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Decreased appetite

• Fatigue

• Elevated liver enzymes

• Constipation

Less common but serious:

• Interstitial lung disease

• Hyperglycemia

• QT interval prolongation

• Pancreatitis

• Bradycardia

Seek medical attention immediately if severe symptoms occur.

🧊 Storage Conditions:

• Store below 25°C

• Keep in a dry place, away from sunlight

• Protect from moisture

• Keep out of children’s reach