Lorlatinib (Lorviqua) is a third-generation ALK inhibitor that demonstrates significant efficacy in the treatment of ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer. However, its administration may be accompanied by various adverse reactions, ranging from mild and manageable symptoms to potentially life-threatening complications.
Adverse Reactions of Lorlatinib (Lorviqua)
Common Adverse Reactions
1. Edema and weight gain.
2. Peripheral neuropathy.
3. Cognitive and emotional effects.
Severe Adverse Reactions of Lorlatinib (Lorviqua)
Risk of Hepatotoxicity
Precipitating Factors: Concomitant use with strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampicin) may lead to severe liver injury (83% of subjects experienced grade 3–4 transaminase elevation).
Regulatory Requirements: Co-administration with strong CYP3A inducers is prohibited. Prior to initiating lorlatinib, it is essential to ensure that such drugs have been discontinued for more than 3 half-lives.
Effects on the Cardiac Conduction System
Clinical Manifestations: Prolonged PR interval and atrioventricular (AV) block. Among patients, 1.9% developed AV block, and 0.2% required pacemaker implantation.
Monitoring Measures: Conduct regular electrocardiogram (ECG) assessments before and during treatment. In case of symptomatic AV block, suspend drug administration and resume treatment at a reduced dose only when the PR interval is < 200 ms. For recurrent or complete AV block, evaluate the necessity of permanent discontinuation or pacemaker placement.
Pulmonary Complications
Clinical Features: Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis (1.9%), with 0.6% being grade 3–4.
Management Principles: Immediately discontinue the drug if pulmonary toxicity is suspected. Permanently discontinue treatment in patients confirmed to have treatment-related ILD/pneumonitis of any grade.
Hypertension and Hyperglycemia
Hypertension (13% incidence): 6% of cases were grade 3–4. Regular blood pressure monitoring is required, and dose adjustments should be made based on the hypertension grade.
Hyperglycemia (9% incidence): Particularly grade 3 and above (3.2%). Fasting blood glucose should be monitored before and during treatment, with dose reduction or discontinuation implemented according to the severity of hyperglycemia.
Important Precautions for Lorlatinib (Lorviqua)
Management of Drug Interactions
Strong/Moderate CYP3A Inducers: Strong inducers can significantly reduce plasma drug concentrations and induce liver injury. If moderate inducers must be used, the dose of lorlatinib should be increased to 125 mg once daily.
Strong CYP3A Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): If co-administration is necessary, reduce the baseline dose from 100 mg to 75 mg once daily. For patients who have already had their dose reduced to 75 mg due to adverse reactions and require co-administration with strong inhibitors, further reduce the dose to 50 mg once daily.
Warnings for Special Populations
Pregnancy: Lorlatinib has embryotoxic potential. Studies in pregnant mice and rabbits have indicated teratogenic effects and an increased risk of miscarriage.
Contraception Requirements: Women of childbearing potential must use effective non-hormonal contraceptive methods, as this drug may render hormonal contraceptives ineffective.
Lactation: Breastfeeding is prohibited during treatment and for 7 days after the last dose.
Monitoring and Patient Education
Systematic Monitoring During Treatment: Monitor blood lipids, ECG, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, as well as pulmonary and neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Patient Education: Patients should be informed to promptly report any new or worsening symptoms to the healthcare team, especially severe signs such as central nervous system (CNS) reactions, arrhythmias, and respiratory disorders.
