Xermelo Details: Adverse Reactions, Dosage, Applications, and Additional Info
Xermelo, a brand-name tablet, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2017. This oral medication is not a controlled substance or chemotherapy, but instead, it plays a crucial role in controlling diarrhea caused by carcinoid tumors, a rare type of cancer that typically develops in the digestive system.
Xermelo contains the active drug telotristat ethyl and functions as a tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme that's involved in making serotonin, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea.
Before starting treatment with Xermelo, it is essential to discuss your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, and supplements, with both your doctor and pharmacist. This is because Xermelo can interact with several other medications, such as short-acting octreotide, drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates, and drugs that are CYP2B6 substrates.
Xermelo is taken three times per day, with food, and it is important to note that there is no generic version of Xermelo currently available. The earliest expected date for generic entry is February 28, 2031, based on patent and regulatory exclusivity protections. However, this estimated date could change depending on patent challenges or regulatory decisions.
Xermelo is intended for long-term treatment and is FDA-approved for carcinoid syndrome diarrhea in adults. It is important to remember that Xermelo can cause mild side effects such as headache, nausea, flatulence, reduced appetite, fever, peripheral edema, increased liver enzymes, abdominal pain, constipation, and mild allergic reactions. More serious side effects can include severe constipation, depression, and severe allergic reactions.
Financial and insurance assistance is available for Xermelo, and the Xermelo Co-Pay Program provides support and information for those who may need it. To find out if you're eligible for support, you can visit the program website.
It is essential to obtain a prescription to obtain Xermelo, and it is only available as a brand-name tablet. The cost of Xermelo can vary based on insurance, location, and pharmacy. Xermelo is not approved for use in children.
In conclusion, Xermelo is a valuable treatment option for adults suffering from diarrhea caused by carcinoid syndrome, a rare type of cancer. As with any medication, it is crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider and to carefully follow the prescribed dosage and instructions.
