Lurbinectedin (Zepzelca) is an alkylating agent indicated for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) and for the treatment of patients with metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC) who have progressed after platinum-containing chemotherapy. To ensure the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy, it is crucial to focus on key precautions during administration and conduct standardized monitoring.

What are the Precautions for Lurbinectedin (Zepzelca) Administration?

Confirmation of Drug Indications

Lurbinectedin is indicated for: Combination use with atezolizumab or atezolizumab and hyaluronidase-tqjs for the maintenance treatment of patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).

And as monotherapy for the treatment of metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC) that has progressed after platinum-containing chemotherapy.

Prior to use, it is necessary to confirm whether the patient's condition meets the medication indications.

Standardization of Administration Method

Administration via a central venous catheter is recommended to reduce the risk of extravasation.

Extravasation may cause tissue necrosis requiring debridement.

The intravenous infusion time is 60 minutes, with an administration interval of once every 21 days, until disease progression or the occurrence of unacceptable toxicity.

Assessment of Hepatic Function Status

Lurbinectedin should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

If unavoidable, the recommended dosage is 1.6 mg/m².

Patients with moderate hepatic impairment also require a dosage adjustment to 1.6 mg/m².

Patients with mild hepatic impairment do not need dosage adjustment.

Risk Management of Myelosuppression

Lurbinectedin can cause severe, even life-threatening myelosuppression, including febrile neutropenia and sepsis, thrombocytopenia, and anemia.

Prior to initiating treatment, it must be confirmed that the patient's baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is ≥ 1,500 cells/mm³ and platelet count is ≥ 100,000/mm³.

Prevention of Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis

Extravasation can cause skin and soft tissue damage, including necrosis requiring debridement.

Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of extravasation during infusion.

If extravasation occurs, immediately stop the infusion, remove the infusion catheter, and monitor for signs of tissue necrosis.

Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Hematological Index Testing: Treatment may only be initiated if the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is confirmed to be at least 1,500 cells/mm³ and the platelet count is at least 100,000/mm³.

Prophylactic Medication Preparation: To reduce the risk of nausea, corticosteroids and serotonin agonists should be administered prior to the first cycle.

Monitoring During Lurbinectedin (Zepzelca) Administration

Routine Monitoring Items

Monitor blood cell counts before each administration.

Hepatic function tests should be performed regularly before the start of treatment and during treatment.

Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) should be checked before treatment and as clinically indicated.

Monitoring of Special Populations: Enhanced monitoring is required for patients with hepatic impairment, especially moderate and severe cases, to closely monitor the increase in adverse reactions.