Tepotinib hydrochloride

Tepotinib hydrochloride is a kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with MET exon 14 skipping mutations. It is marketed under the brand name Tepmetko by Merck KGaA.

Mechanism of action

Tepotinib hydrochloride works by inhibiting the hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFR), also known as MET. This receptor is often mutated in certain types of cancer, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. By inhibiting this receptor, tepotinib hydrochloride can slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Uses

Tepotinib hydrochloride is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer with MET exon 14 skipping mutations. This is a specific type of mutation that leads to increased activity of the MET receptor, promoting cancer growth. Tepotinib hydrochloride is used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastasized) or cannot be removed with surgery.

Side effects

Common side effects of tepotinib hydrochloride include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, swelling (edema), and shortness of breath. Less common but more serious side effects can include liver damage, interstitial lung disease, and heart failure.

History

Tepotinib hydrochloride was approved for use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021. It was granted accelerated approval based on the results of a clinical trial showing a response rate of 43% in patients with NSCLC with MET exon 14 skipping mutations.

See also

• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Kinase inhibitor
• MET exon 14 skipping

Tepotinib hydrochloride Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia