Koselugo (Selumetinib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Koselugo Used For?
Koselugo is a medication that contains the active ingredient selumetinib and is used to treat children aged 2 years and older who have Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and symptomatic plexiform neurofibromas that cannot be completely removed by surgery.
Primary Uses
Koselugo is primarily used for treating pediatric patients with NF1 and symptomatic plexiform neurofibromas.
How It Works
Selumetinib works by blocking specific proteins involved in the growth of tumor cells, potentially reducing the size of tumors associated with NF1.
Good to know: Koselugo is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Koselugo
Koselugo should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, typically twice a day.
Dosage Instructions
The dosage of Koselugo is determined by your doctor based on your body surface area. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the number of capsules to take.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's more than 6 hours until your next scheduled dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's less than 6 hours, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- nausea
- inflammation of the mouth
- headache
- dry skin
- rash
- tiredness
- muscle and bone pain
- fever
- itching
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- blurred vision
- loss of vision
- dark spots in vision
- persistent coughing
- shortness of breath
- swelling of ankles/feet
- tiredness
- increased heart rate
- diarrhea
- muscle aches or pains
- dark or reddish urine
- rash covering a large area of the body
- blisters or peeling skin
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Koselugo.
Who Should Not Take Koselugo
Do not take Koselugo if you have a known allergy to selumetinib or any of its ingredients, have severe liver disease, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any existing medical conditions with your doctor, especially eye problems or heart issues, as Koselugo can cause vision changes and may affect heart function.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Koselugo may harm an unborn child, so effective contraception is advised during treatment. It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking Koselugo.
Drug Interactions
Koselugo may interact with other medications, affecting how it works.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Koselugo, as it may affect how the medication works.
- Clarithromycin
- Erythromycin
- Carbamazepine
- Phenytoin
- Fluconazole
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Rifampicin
- St. John's wort
- Fluoxetine
- Ticlopidine
- Omeprazole
Alcohol & Driving
While taking Koselugo, be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles or machinery.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while on Koselugo.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Avoid driving or using machines if you experience tiredness or vision problems.
Storage
Store Koselugo in its original bottle in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep it out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Koselugo, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Koselugo to show effects can vary by individual. Consult your doctor for more specific information.
Koselugo can be taken with or without food.
No, Koselugo is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Koselugo without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on Koselugo.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Koselugo, but discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any specific concerns with their doctor before starting Koselugo.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.