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ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitor

Alectinib [Specialist drug]

Brand names: Alecensa

Alectinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor used as a specialist anticancer treatment for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small-cell lung cancer.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It selectively inhibits ALK tyrosine kinase and RET, blocking downstream signalling pathways that drive proliferation of ALK-positive tumour cells, with activity in the central nervous system.

Prescribing in practice

  • It can cause hepatotoxicity, so liver function should be checked before and regularly during treatment, with dose modification or interruption for significant derangement.
  • Myalgia with raised creatine kinase, bradycardia, interstitial lung disease and photosensitivity can occur and may require monitoring or treatment changes.
  • Advise sun protection and review concomitant medicines that affect heart rate as described in the SPC.

Monitoring

Monitor liver function, creatine kinase, heart rate and for respiratory symptoms during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Report yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe muscle pain, or new breathlessness.
  • Use sun protection as the skin can become more sensitive to sunlight.
  • Take it as a regular oral treatment with food and do not change the dose without advice.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE technology appraisals support alectinib for untreated ALK-positive advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.

Reference: NICE TA536/TA610; ESMO; SmPC Alecensa; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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