Xalkori (Crizotinib) for Lymphoma

Overview
Xalkori is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating certain cancers that are positive for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) or ROS1. Among its specific indications, it’s approved for children (1 year and older) with relapsed or refractory ALK-positive systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). Xalkori is also known by its drug name, crizotinib.

Xalkori works by blocking kinase enzymes, types of protein involved in the growth of certain cancer cells. By targeting the ALK gene mutation, Xalkori can interfere with cancer cell growth, potentially slowing or stopping tumor progression.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Xalkori is taken orally, typically as capsules or oral pellets. For FDA-approved conditions, the dosage is usually twice daily. For children with ALCL, dosing is adjusted based on body surface area. Xalkori should always be taken exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Xalkori for people with ALCLC include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, vision disorders, headache, musculoskeletal pain, stomatitis (mouth sores), fatigue, decreased appetite, pyrexia (fever), abdominal pain, cough, and pruritus (itching). Laboratory abnormalities in some people include low levels of certain types of blood cells. 

Rare but serious side effects may include hepatotoxicity (severe liver injury), lung inflammation, abnormal heart rhythms, bradycardia (slow heart rate), severe vision loss, and gastrointestinal toxicity. 

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Label: Xalkori — Crizotinib Capsule, Xalkori — Crizotinib Capsule, Coated Pellets  — DailyMed