Often used for:
Lung cancer
About crizotinib
Crizotinib is a targeted therapy known as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It blocks certain cell signals to slow or stop cell growth and is used to treat ALK- or ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer. Patients will have regular blood tests to monitor blood counts and kidney and liver function.
Crizotinib at home
- This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or dangerous activities until you know how you are affected.
- Take crizotinib at the same time each day, with or without food.
- Swallow capsules whole without cutting, crushing, or chewing.
- Store at room temperature.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible unless it is within 6 hours of the next dose—then skip it. Do not take two doses at the same time.
- Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
- Follow instructions for safe handling and disposal.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling of arms or legs
- Vision changes or blurry vision
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Low blood counts (may increase the risk of infection, bleeding, anemia, and/or fatigue)
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
- Nose and throat irritation
- Changes in taste
- Liver problems
- Not all patients who take crizotinib will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Medicines or foods may be recommended to help manage diarrhea, and anti-nausea medicines may be prescribed.
- Do not eat grapefruit or Seville oranges or drink beverages containing them while taking this medicine.
- Sexually active patients should prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after completion of therapy.
- Inform the doctor if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Tell your doctor about any new medicine started while taking crizotinib, as it may affect drug levels or increase side effects.
- Caregivers should follow safe handling instructions and avoid contact with patient body fluids for 48 hours after dosing.
