Zykadia (Ceritinib) is a prescription medication used to treat adults with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body. This drug is used only if the cancer has a specific genetic marker called anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). Lung cancer may not show symptoms until you have had it long enough for it to spread to other parts of your body. This disease is harder to treat as it progresses. The active ingredient in Zykadia is Ceritinib. Ceritinib belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Zykadia from Canada manufactured by Novartis in the strength of 150 mg capsules. The generic Ceritinib is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Zykadia. The most common side effects of Zykadia may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Nausea;
• Stomach pain;
• Tiredness
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Fast or pounding heartbeats;
• Severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back;
• Signs of high blood sugar, including increased thirst, increased urination, fruity breath, blurred vision;
• Sudden chest pain
These are not all of the side effects of Zykadia. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Zykadia if you are allergic to Ceritinib or any ingredient in Zykadia. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a pancreas disorder;
• Have an electrolyte imbalance;
• Have diabetes;
• Have heart problems;
• Have liver disease;
• Have long QT syndrome
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Zykadia and other medicines like digoxin, metoprolol, diltiazem, ketoconazole, erythromycin, etc. Avoid St. John’s wort, carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, or fentanyl with Zykadia. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Zykadia may harm an unborn baby. You should avoid becoming pregnant when using this drug. You will have to do a pregnancy test before starting this medication. Use highly effective contraception while using this drug and for at least 6 months after your last dose. Males with female partners of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after completion of treatment. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Zykadia passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. You should not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose. Use Zykadia precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water once daily. Do not crush, dissolve, or open them. Take this medication with food. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take another dose at that time. Take your next dose at the regular time. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this drug. Zykadia may cause vision changes. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity requiring alertness or clear vision until you can safely perform the activities. The drug may make you more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Store Zykadia at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.