How does Fruquintinib treat cancer?

How does Fruquintinib target cancer cells?

Fruquintinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that specifically targets vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs). It works by preventing the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to survive and spread [1]. By inhibiting VEGFRs, fruquintinib reduces the tumor's ability to grow and metastasize.

What types of cancers can Fruquintinib treat?

Fruquintinib is primarily used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Clinical trials have shown that fruquintinib can improve overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with refractory colorectal cancer [2].

How does Fruquintinib compare to other cancer treatments?

Fruquintinib is considered a targeted therapy, as opposed to chemotherapy or immunotherapy. It has a different mechanism of action than other anti-angiogenic agents, such as bevacizumab or sunitinib. While it has shown efficacy in clinical trials, it is essential to note that the choice of treatment depends on individual patient circumstances and medical history [3].

What are the potential side effects of Fruquintinib?

Common side effects of fruquintinib include hand-foot syndrome, diarrhea, hypertension, and rash. In severe cases, patients may experience more serious side effects, such as bleeding or cardiac events [4]. Patients should discuss potential side effects and monitoring requirements with their healthcare provider.

Can patients with specific health conditions take Fruquintinib?

Contraindications to fruquintinib include a history of serious bleeding or cardiovascular disease. Patients with active or uncontrolled hypertension, hypoproteinemia, or severe hepatic impairment should also avoid taking fruquintinib [5].

When will the patent for Fruquintinib expire?

According to [6], the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted priority review for the New Drug Application (NDA) of fruquintinib, and the drug was approved in 2020. As the FDA usually grants exclusive marketing rights for a limited period, the exact patent expiration date is not publicly disclosed. However, the patent exclusivity can vary depending on the jurisdiction and regulatory pathways adopted.

Sources:

[1] Wikipedia, 'Fruquintinib' [online]. Available at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fruquintinib

[2] ClinicalTrials.gov, [Clinical trial: NCT01461213]. Available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01461213

[3] National Cancer Institute, 'Targeted Cancer Therapies' [online]. Available at https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/targeted-therapies/targeted-therapies-fact-sheet

[4] Prescribing Information for ELUNATE® tablets [online]. Available at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2021/212115s000lbl.pdf

[5] Prescribing Information for ELUNATE® tablets [online]. Available at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2021/212115s000lbl.pdf

[6] DrugPatentWatch.com [online].