Cost, effects, applications, and dosage details for Voranigo medication
Revamped Article:
Ready to learn all about Voranigo, a brand-name pill for certain brain tumors? This bad boy contains the active ingredient vorasidenib and is primarily used to treat Grade 2 astrocytomas or oligodendrogliomas in folk aged 12 or older. Need more deets? Check out the "Voranigo uses" section below.
Nitty-gritty on Voranigo
Our pals at the FDA consider this drug a type of targeted cancer therapy, a fancy term for a medic that zeroes in on specific proteins to smother the growth of cancer cells. Here's a quick rundown of some essential details you should know about Voranigo:
- Drug class: Specifically focuses on IDH1 and IDH2 inhibitors, a subcategory of targeted cancer therapy
- Generic version: None currently available
- Prescription required: Yep, you'll need a doc's prescription
- Controlled substance: Nope, it's not one of those
The Voranigo generic conundrum
If you're wondering if there's a cheaper generic version of Voranigo, sorry to disappoint you, my friend. At this moment, you're stuck with buying the exact name-brand pill. But fear not, as the generic version may be available in the future, which would bring down the costs for all of us.
Costs, coupons, and insurance
As with everything in life, the price of Voranigo might vary. Depending on factors such as your insurance and pharmacy, the bill might be different for each individual. Don't forget, if you need a little financial aid or have questions about your insurance coverage, organizations like ServierONE offer assistance. Give them a ring at 800-813-5905 or visit their website for more info.
Side effects galore
When you start taking Voranigo, it can cause some side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Here's a list of the most common side effects you might encounter:
less than 40 kg (about 88 pounds [lb])
- fatigue
- headache
- nausea
- diarrhea or constipation
- reduced appetite
- muscular or joint pain
- COVID-19
- changes in white blood cell count or liver enzymes
Most side effects should subside within a few days or couple of weeks, but if they persist or get worse, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
20 mg once per day
Blacklisting for allergy sufferers
Hey, there are always a few unlucky ones who experience allergic reactions to certain meds, and Voranigo is no exception. Before prescribing you this medication, your doc will make sure you're not one of the unfortunate ones who might develop an allergy.
It's important to note that, while allergic reactions were not reported during the drug's studies, serious side effects can occur. In that case, call your doctor right away or dial 911 if the situation is urgent.
Voranigo, the tumor slayer
40 kg or more
Voranigo is FDA-approved to treat certain brain tumors called astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. It's suitable for Grade 2 tumors that have a specific genetic mutation, known as IDH1 or IDH2 mutations[1]. Your doctor will first conduct a biopsy to check if the tumor cells contain these mutations before prescribing Voranigo.
Voranigo for kids
40 mg once per day
Excellent news for families, Voranigo is approved for treating Grade 2 astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas in kiddos aged 12 years and older who have IDH1 or IDH2 mutations[6]. Before using it on younger children, more studies need to be conducted to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Dosage do-si-dos
The exact dosage prescribed for you will vary based on factors such as your body weight, overall health, and whether you experience certain side effects[7].
The Voranigo pill comes in two strengths: 10 mg and 40 mg. You can take it with or without food and aim to keep the dosing schedule consistent to help maintain a steady level of the drug in your body.
Voranigo interactions
Avoid using Voranigo with other medications, foods, or supplements that can interfere with its effectiveness, as doing so could lead to unwanted side effects or overdose. Consult with your doctor and pharmacist about any drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements you're currently taking to minimize the risk of interactions.
Alcohol and Voranigo: a dangerous mix
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Voranigo, as it can potentially increase your risk of unpleasant side effects like headaches, nausea, diarrhea, or even liver problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any doubts about drinking alcohol with Voranigo.
• ciprofloxacin (Cipro)• cyclosporine (Neoral, others)• fluvoxamine (Luvox)• phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)• rifampin (Rifadin, Rimatane)• hormonal forms of birth control, such as the combined pill, minipill, or patch
Voranigo: not your average chemotherapy
Contrary to popular belief, Voranigo is not chemotherapy. Instead, it's a targeted cancer therapy that focuses on specific proteins or processes that aid the growth of cancer cells. This type of medication generally affects cancer cells more selectively than chemotherapy, resulting in fewer side effects for the patient.
Alternatives to Voranigo
Other treatments for brain tumors exist, and your doctor can help determine the best one for your situation. Potential options include chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Things to consider when taking Voranigo
Pregnancy, fertility, birth control, and breastfeeding
Since Voranigo can harm a fetus, pregnant women should avoid taking this medication. It may also affect fertility in both males and females who use it and pose risks during breastfeeding. To learn more about birth control methods while taking Voranigo, consult your doctor.
And that's a wrap!
Enrichment Data:While the input article did not explicitly mention the mechanisms of action of Voranigo, I've included relevant information on how the drug works to help combat the targeted brain tumors.
Grade 2 astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas are brain tumors that have IDH1 or IDH2 mutations. Voranigo works by blocking the action of the abnormal IDH1 and IDH2 enzymes in tumor cells[7]. These enzymes play a role in energy production within the cells, but when they are mutated, they can produce a molecule that helps the tumor cells grow. By obstructing the action of these abnormal enzymes, Voranigo helps slow down the growth of the tumor and prevent it from spreading further.
In simple terms, Voranigo is a smart drug that targets the specific proteins (enzymes) that drive the growth of these brain tumors, keeping the tumor from getting bigger and spreading throughout the brain.
- If you're dealing with other neurological disorders or medical-conditions, it's crucial to share this information with your healthcare provider when discussing the use of Voranigo, as it may interact with certain drugs or potentially exacerbate symptoms.
- Despite being primarily used for treating brain tumors, Voranigo's therapeutic effects extend to cancer treatment, specifically showing promise in targeting IDH1 and IDH2 mutations, which are also found in various cancer types. The science behind this is rooted in oncology, where medications are designed to zero in on specific proteins to inhibit cancer cell growth.
- Voranigo can be purchased from a pharmacy, but since it doesn't have a generic version yet, you'll need to rely on the name-brand pill for now. However, as research continues, a more affordable generic may become available in the future.
- In some rare cases, Voranigo can lead to allergic reactions, so it's essential to inform your healthcare provider about any drug allergies before starting this medication.
- It's also important to be aware that Voranigo is different from chemotherapy, as it's a targeted cancer therapy that affects specific proteins or processes in cancer cells, resulting in fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
