Repotrectinib: ROS1 & NTRK Inhibitor for Cancer
Repotrectinib is a modern, next-generation anti-cancer medication designed to treat certain types of lung cancer and other solid tumors. It belongs to a class of drugs called ROS1 and NTRK inhibitors — it targets specific proteins that, when genetically altered, drive tumor growth.
The key advantage of repotrectinib is that it works even when the tumor has become resistant to other similar drugs (such as crizotinib or entrectinib). It also penetrates the brain effectively, which is important for patients with brain metastases. On Unifarm, you can find generic versions of medications (such as Augtyro) containing this active ingredient.
Indications
- ROS1-Positive Lung Cancer: Treatment of adults with advanced (metastatic) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) where genetic testing has confirmed a ROS1 gene rearrangement. Can be used as a first treatment or after other therapies have stopped working.
- Tumors with NTRK Gene Rearrangement: Treatment of adults with solid tumors of various types where NTRK gene fusions have been identified, and the disease has progressed after prior treatment or when no suitable alternatives exist.
Dosage and administration
Available as capsules taken by mouth.
How to take it:
- Standard dose: 160 mg once daily for the first 14 days, then increased to 160 mg twice daily.
- How to take: Swallow capsules whole with water. Can be taken with or without food.
- If side effects occur: Your doctor may pause treatment or reduce the dose to 120 mg or 80 mg.
Do not open or crush the capsules. If you miss a dose or vomit after taking it, do not take an extra dose — take the next one as scheduled. Your doctor will order regular blood tests and monitor your condition throughout treatment.
- Allergy (hypersensitivity) to repotrectinib or any ingredient in the capsules.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — the drug may harm the baby. Women of childbearing age must use reliable contraception during and for a period after treatment.
- Severe liver disease (medical consultation required).
- Taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (certain antifungal or antibacterial medicines) — always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Like all cancer medicines, repotrectinib can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences them, and severity may vary. The most common ones include:
- Nervous system: Dizziness (very common — one of the most frequent side effects), problems with coordination (ataxia), tingling or numbness, changes in taste.
- Digestive system: Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
- Respiratory: Shortness of breath, cough. In rare cases, lung inflammation (pneumonitis) may develop — seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe breathlessness.
- Blood: Low red blood cell count (anemia), low white blood cell count (neutropenia).
- Liver: Elevated liver values in blood tests.
- General well-being: Tiredness, swelling, muscle and joint pain.
- Heart: Slow heartbeat (bradycardia) — your doctor may monitor with ECG.
Always inform your doctor about any changes in how you feel. Most side effects can be managed when addressed promptly.
