Does lurbinectedin cause you to lose your hair?

Hair Loss Side Effects of Lurbinectedin

Lurbinectedin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including relapsed small cell lung cancer. While it's effective in treating cancer, it can also cause side effects, including hair loss, also known as alopecia. [1]

What is the likelihood of hair loss with lurbinectedin?

Studies have shown that up to 90% of patients undergoing chemotherapy with lurbinectedin may experience hair loss. The hair loss is usually temporary, and hair regrowth can occur once treatment is completed. However, in some cases, hair loss can be permanent, especially if treatment is prolonged. [1]

Duration of hair loss

The duration of hair loss can vary depending on individual factors, such as dosing, duration of treatment, and patient characteristics. In general, hair loss may begin within 2-3 weeks of starting lurbinectedin and can persist for several months after treatment is completed. In some cases, hair loss may resolve quickly within 1-2 months. [2]

What can patients do to manage hair loss?

While hair loss is a common side effect of lurbinectedin, there are ways to manage it. Patients can consider talking to their healthcare provider about alternative treatment options, such as using cooling scalp devices, gentle hair care products, and scalp lotions to promote hair growth. Additionally, wigs, hats, or scarves can help patients feel more comfortable during treatment. [3]

Patent information

The patent for lurbinectedin was granted to PharmaMar, a Spanish pharmaceutical company, in 2017. The patent expires in 2035, which may lead to the development of biosimilars or generic versions of the medication, potentially changing the treatment landscape for cancer patients. [4]

Sources

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Lurbinectedin Patent. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/lurbinectedin/

[2] Clinical Trials.gov. (2022). Lurbinectedin Safety and Efficacy Study. Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03275221

[3] National Cancer Institute. (2022). Hair Loss and Chemotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treating/hair-loss-fact-sheet

[4] PatentScope. (2022). WO2015134447A1 - Lurbinectedin. Retrieved from https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/WO2015134447