Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) vs Xalkori (crizotinib)
Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) vs Xalkori (crizotinib)
Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) is a targeted therapy specifically designed for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer that overexpress the HER2 protein, as well as for HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. Xalkori (crizotinib), on the other hand, is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used primarily to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is positive for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) or ROS1 mutations. When deciding between these medications, it is crucial to consider the specific type of cancer and its molecular characteristics, as Enhertu is tailored for HER2-positive cancers while Xalkori is effective in cancers with ALK or ROS1 mutations.
Difference between Enhertu and Xalkori
| Metric | Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) | Xalkori (crizotinib) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki | Crizotinib |
| Indications | HER2-positive breast cancer, HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer | Non-small cell lung cancer, ROS1-positive, ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC |
| Mechanism of action | Antibody-drug conjugate targeting HER2 receptors | Tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting ALK, ROS1, and MET |
| Brand names | Enhertu | Xalkori |
| Administrative route | IV infusion | Oral |
| Side effects | Nausea, fatigue, alopecia, vomiting, constipation, decreased appetite, anemia, neutropenia, leukopenia, diarrhea, cough, interstitial lung disease | Visual disturbances, gastrointestinal effects, edema, elevated transaminases, fatigue, decreased appetite, upper respiratory infection, dizziness, neuropathy |
| Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki or excipients | Hypersensitivity to crizotinib or any component of the formulation |
| Drug class | Antineoplastic agent, HER2 inhibitor, Topoisomerase inhibitor | Antineoplastic agent, Tyrosine kinase inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. | Pfizer Inc. |
Efficacy
Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) for Lung Cancer
Enhertu, also known by its generic name fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki, is a novel antibody-drug conjugate that targets HER2, a protein which can promote the growth of cancer cells. In the context of lung cancer, Enhertu has shown promising efficacy in patients with HER2-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Clinical trials have demonstrated that Enhertu can lead to significant tumor shrinkage and prolonged progression-free survival in this patient population. The drug has been particularly effective in those who have previously undergone treatment with other therapies, offering a new line of defense against the progression of lung cancer.
It is important to note that Enhertu's efficacy is specifically tied to the presence of HER2 mutations or overexpression in lung cancer cells. Therefore, its use is contingent upon the results of diagnostic testing to confirm HER2 positivity. In clinical settings, Enhertu has been associated with a notable response rate, indicating that a substantial proportion of treated patients experience a reduction in tumor size or disease stabilization.
Xalkori (crizotinib) for Lung Cancer
Xalkori, with the generic name crizotinib, is an oral medication that acts as an ALK and ROS1 inhibitor, designed to treat NSCLC that is ALK or ROS1-positive. The efficacy of Xalkori has been well-established through multiple clinical trials for patients with ALK-positive NSCLC. Xalkori has been shown to significantly improve progression-free survival compared to standard chemotherapy, with a higher response rate and a reduction in the risk of disease progression or death in patients with advanced ALK-positive NSCLC.
Furthermore, Xalkori has also demonstrated effectiveness in patients with ROS1-positive NSCLC, providing a crucial treatment option for this subset of lung cancer patients. The targeted nature of Xalkori's action allows for tailored therapy that can lead to better outcomes and a more favorable safety profile compared to traditional chemotherapy. As with Enhertu, the use of Xalkori is dependent on molecular testing to confirm the presence of ALK or ROS1 gene alterations, which are critical for the drug's efficacy in lung cancer treatment.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Enhertu
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Japan
Xalkori
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Health Canada
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Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Japan
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Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
Access Enhertu or Xalkori today
If Enhertu or Xalkori are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
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