Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 80%–85% of cases. About 2%–3% of people with NSCLC have an EGFR exon 20 insertion mutation, as detected by a test approved by the Food and Drug administration (FDA). This group of mutations causes rapid cell growth, which enables cancer to spread.
The FDA granted Rybrevant accelerated approval status in May 2021.
Uses
Rybrevant is FDA-approved to treat adults with NSCLC who have all of the following:
The genetic mutation EGFR exon 20 insertion (the third most prevalent activating EGR mutation) Cancer that has spread to other areas of the body (metastasized) or that can’t be surgically removed Disease that has worsened while taking or after taking chemotherapy containing platinum
Before Taking
Before you are able to use Rybrevant, your physician will perform testing to make sure it’s a suitable treatment for you.
If you meet the criteria, your physician may recommend Rybrevant as a first-line treatment for your disease.
Before starting this medication, you need to tell your physician about all prescription, nonprescription, illegal, recreational, herbal, nutritional, or dietary drugs you are taking. Some substances can cause dangerous interactions when taken together.
Precautions and Contraindications
Before starting Rybrevant, tell your physician about all your medical conditions, especially if you have a history of lung or breathing problems.
Rybrevant can harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. Let your physician know if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It’s not known if Rybrevant can pass through breastmilk. It’s recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking this drug and for at least three months after stopping it.
Dosage
According to the manufacturer, the recommended dose of Rybrevant, which is based on your body weight, is as follows:
If you weigh less than 80 kilograms, or roughly 176 pounds, you should be given 1,050 milligrams, which is three vials. If you weigh 80 kilograms or more, or at least 176 pounds, you should be given 1,400 milligrams, which is four vials.
Modifications
If you develop side effects, your physician may suggest that you slow down or stop your treatment with Rybrevant.
You will be given premedications to help prevent a reaction to Rybrevant. These include:
An antihistamine (diphenhydramine)An antipyretic (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)A glucocorticoid (dexamethasone or methylprednisolone)
The antihistamine and antipyretic will be given to you prior to each infusion, while the glucocorticoid is required only during the first week (the doses on days one and two) and as needed for subsequent doses.
Tell your physician how you’re feeling during and after your treatment with this medication.
How to Take
Rybrevant comes as a liquid that’s slowly injected into a vein. This is done by a healthcare provider at a medical facility.
At first, Rybrevant is given once a day for two days in a row. After the first two doses, it’s usually administered once every two weeks.
How long you need to take Rybrevant will depend on your side effects, your response to treatment, and other factors.
A healthcare professional will monitor you while you are being given this medication to make sure you don’t have a serious reaction.
Side Effects
Every medication causes side effects, and Rybrevant is no exception. Your physician can help you understand the risks and benefits of taking this drug.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Rybrevant include:
RashSwelling of the feet, ankles, hands, face, or bodySores in your mouthInfected skin around the nailsCoughShortness of breathMuscle and joint painConstipationNausea or vomitingFatigue
Severe
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience any severe side effects, such as:
Severely dry, itchy, cracking, blistering, or shedding skinEye pain, vision changes, blurred vision, or sensitivity to lightDry, red, teary, itchy, or painful eyesA new or worsening cough or shortness of breathChest painFeverEasy bleeding or bruisingBleeding gums or a bleeding noseBlood in the urine or stoolCoughing up blood
Warnings and Interactions
Rybrevant may cause serious lung problems that can lead to death. Symptoms may be similar to those of lung cancer, so it’s important to tell your physician right away if you notice any new or worsening problems.
This medication should not be used by people with interstitial lung disease.
You will need to be under the care and observation of a healthcare professional while receiving Rybrevant. Your healthcare provider will monitor your symptoms and your response to treatment.
It may be helpful to keep a written list of all the medicines and supplements you are taking and bring it with you to your medical appointments. Your physician may need to change the doses of certain medicines or carefully watch your side effects.
Rybrevant can harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. Take a pregnancy test prior to receiving Rybrevant to confirm you are not pregnant, and avoid becoming pregnant during your treatment.
A Word From Verywell
If you have non-small cell lung cancer with the EGFR exon 20 insertion mutation and you think you might benefit from taking Rybrevant, talk to your physician. You can discuss the benefits and risks of receiving Rybrevant and if it will help treat your specific case of NSCLC.
