How to Use Lorlatinib

Lorlatinib is an antineoplastic (anticancer) medication. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually eliminated by the body. This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription.

How to Use Lorlatinib

For Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Adults: 100 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dosage as needed and based on your tolerance.

Pediatric Patients: The dosage and administration method must be determined by a doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

If you miss a dose and the time left until your next dose is less than 4 hours, skip the missed dose and stick to your regular dosing plan. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one. Do not take an additional dose even if you vomit after taking the medicine.

Precautions Before Using Lorlatinib

The decision to use a medication involves weighing the risks of taking it against its potential benefits. This is a decision that you and your doctor will make together. For this medicine, the following factors should be taken into consideration:

Allergies

Inform your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medications. Also, tell your healthcare professional if you have any other types of allergies (e.g., to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals). For over-the-counter products, carefully read the ingredient list on the label or packaging.

Pediatric Use

Adequate studies have not been conducted to determine the effect of age on the efficacy of lorlatinib in the pediatric population. Its safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Adequate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific issues that would limit the effectiveness of lorlatinib in elderly patients.

Lactation

There are insufficient studies to determine the risks to infants when this medicine is used by breastfeeding women. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medicine during breastfeeding.

Precautions While Using Lorlatinib

Do not use this medicine together with rifampin (Rifadin®). Concurrent use of these medications may increase the risk of developing serious liver problems.

Anticancer drugs may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain in most people, sometimes even after taking preventive medications. Consult your doctor or nurse for other methods to control these adverse reactions.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience upper abdominal pain or tenderness, light-colored stools, dark-colored urine, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the eyes or skin. These may be symptoms of serious liver problems.