Pemigatinib
Generic name: pemigatinib [ PEM-i-GA-ti-nib ]
Brand name: Pemazyre
Dosage form: oral tablet (13.5 mg; 4.5 mg; 9 mg)
Drug class:Multikinase inhibitors
What is pemigatinib?
Pemigatinib is used in adults to treat bile duct cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic) or cannot be removed with surgery. Pemigatinib is usually given after your cancer has been treated with another medicine.
Pemigatinib is used only if your cancer has a specific genetic marker (an abnormal "FGFR2" gene). Your doctor will test you for this gene.
Pemigatinib was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on an "accelerated" basis. In clinical studies, some people responded to pemigatinib, but further studies are needed.
Pemigatinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
problems with your eyes;
vision problems; or
trouble swallowing pills.
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.
Both men and women using pemigatinib should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy. Pemigatinib can harm an unborn baby or cause a miscarriage if the mother or father is using this medicine.
Keep using birth control for at least 1 week after your last dose. Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using pemigatinib.
Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 1 week after your last dose.
How should I take pemigatinib?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Pemigatinib is given in a 21-day treatment cycle. You will take the medicine only during the first 2 weeks of each cycle. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with this medicine.
Take the medicine at the same time each day, with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, break, or dissolve it.
If you vomit shortly after taking pemigatinib, do not take another dose. Wait until your next scheduled dose time to take the medicine again.
Pemigatinib can cause you to have eye problems. An eye doctor will need to examine your eyes before you start taking this medicine, and every 2 to 3 months while you are taking it. Follow any instructions about using artificial tears or lubr...
