Lurbinectedin is a medication used to treat small cell lung cancer and has shown promising results in clinical trials. However, like all medications, it carries potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of.
According to the drug label provided by the FDA [2], some of the potential risks associated with Lurbinectedin include:
- Bone marrow suppression: Lurbinectedin can cause a decrease in the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, which can lead to anemia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia. Patients taking Lurbinectedin should have their blood counts monitored regularly.
- Liver toxicity: Lurbinectedin can cause liver damage, which can be severe and potentially fatal. Patients taking Lurbinectedin should have their liver function monitored regularly.
- Renal toxicity: Lurbinectedin can cause kidney damage, which can be severe and potentially fatal. Patients taking Lurbinectedin should have their kidney function monitored regularly.
- Embryo-fetal toxicity: Lurbinectedin can cause harm to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy.
Other potential side effects of Lurbinectedin, according to Mayo Clinic [3], include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
It is important for patients to discuss any potential risks and side effects of Lurbinectedin with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. Patients should also report any side effects they experience during treatment to their healthcare provider.
Sources:
[2] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/213702s000lbl.pdf
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lurbinectedin-intravenous-route/side-effects/drg-20490804?p=1