Gefapixant Tablets (Lifnua) is an innovative selective P2X3 receptor antagonist specifically indicated for the treatment of refractory chronic cough. With the increasing clinical application of this medication, a comprehensive understanding of its administration precautions and monitoring requirements is particularly important.
What are the Administration Precautions for Gefapixant Tablets (Lifnua)?
Contraindicated Populations
Gefapixant Tablets are explicitly contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any component of the drug.
Due to the presence of a sulfonamide structure in the drug, patients with a history of allergy to sulfonamide drugs may be at risk of cross-allergy. A detailed allergy history should be obtained from patients before administration.
Patients with Renal Impairment
Gefapixant Tablets are primarily excreted via the kidneys, and renal function status directly affects the drug's exposure in the body.
For patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m² without dialysis), the dosage should be adjusted to 45 mg once daily.
Patients with moderate renal impairment do not require dosage adjustment, but regular monitoring of renal function indicators is necessary.
Sufficient data on recommended dosage adjustments are currently lacking for patients with end-stage renal failure requiring dialysis.
Pregnant and Lactating Women
Use in pregnant women is only recommended if the potential therapeutic benefit significantly outweighs the risk.
Lactating women should consider the possibility of drug excretion in breast milk, and a comprehensive assessment should be conducted to decide whether to continue breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients and Pediatric Patients
Elderly patients are often accompanied by decreased renal function. Close monitoring of renal function is required during use, and dosage adjustment should be made if necessary.
The efficacy in children under 8 years of age has not been established, and use is not recommended.
Administration Precautions
The medication is packaged in PTP blister packs. Patients must be instructed to remove the tablets from the aluminum foil before taking them to prevent accidental ingestion of the packaging, which may cause serious complications such as esophageal mucosal injury or even perforation.
Medication Monitoring for Gefapixant Tablets (Lifnua)
Renal Function Monitoring
All patients should undergo regular renal function tests during treatment, especially elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal impairment.
The monitoring frequency should be individually determined based on the patient's specific condition.
Taste Function Assessment
The first week after initiating treatment is a high-risk period for taste disorders. Special attention should be paid to changes in the patient's taste.
If severe taste disorders are detected during monitoring, the necessity of continuing medication should be promptly evaluated.
Stone Risk Assessment
Clinical trial data show that cases of bladder stones, urinary tract stones, and kidney stones have been reported in patients using Gefapixant Tablets. Although the incidence is low, vigilance should still be maintained.
