Itovebi (Inavolisib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Itovebi Used For?
Itovebi is an anti-cancer medicine that contains the active ingredient inavolisib. It is used in combination with other cancer medicines to treat a specific type of breast cancer.
Primary Uses
Itovebi is used to treat adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer where the cancer has spread to nearby tissue or lymph nodes, or to other parts of the body, and is currently being treated with endocrine therapy or was treated within the last 12 months, and has a change in a gene called ‘PIK3CA.’
How It Works
Itovebi works by blocking the effects of a protein called ‘p110 alpha’, which is produced by the PIK3CA gene. When this gene is mutated, it causes cancer cells to grow and multiply more rapidly. By blocking this protein’s action, Itovebi can reduce growth and spread of the cancer and help destroy cancer cells.
Good to know: Itovebi is not addictive
How to Take Itovebi
Take Itovebi exactly as your doctor tells you to. It’s important to follow the dosing schedule carefully for the best treatment results.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is 9 mg per day. Take Itovebi once daily at about the same time each day. You can take it with or without food. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take an extra dose that day – just take your regular dose at the usual time the next day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss your dose at the usual time, you may still take it up to 9 hours after the scheduled time. If it has been more than 9 hours, skip the missed dose and take your next dose when you are supposed to the next day.
Important: Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed
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:
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
- Disturbed sense of taste
- Dry eyes
- Skin rash, dry skin, pale skin
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Pain when urinating
- Tiredness, headache
- Loss of appetite, weight loss
- Hair thinning or hair loss
- General unwell feeling
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- High blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) – difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting lasting more than 2 hours, stomach pain, excessive thirst, dry mouth, frequent urination, blurred vision, increased appetite, weight loss, fruity-smelling breath, flushed face and dry skin, unusual sleepiness or tiredness
- Inflammation of the lining of the mouth (stomatitis) – pain, redness, swelling, mouth ulcers
- Diarrhoea – loose or watery stools, tummy pain, gas
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations to discuss with your doctor before starting Itovebi treatment.
Who Should Not Take Itovebi
Do not use Itovebi if you are allergic to inavolisib or any of the ingredients listed in the medication information.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have a history of diabetes or high blood sugar, including during a previous pregnancy (gestational diabetes). Also inform your doctor about any other medical conditions or medicines you are taking.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Itovebi can harm your unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant must use non-hormonal birth control during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose. Men with female partners who can become pregnant should use condoms during treatment and for 2 weeks after. Do not breastfeed during treatment or until 1 week after completing treatment.
Pregnancy Warning: Your healthcare provider will do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Itovebi
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Itovebi and affect how it works. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking.
- Any prescription medicines
- Vitamins or supplements bought without prescription
- Medicines from pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop
Alcohol & Driving
Be careful with activities that require alertness until you know how Itovebi affects you.
Alcohol
Your doctor may advise you to avoid alcohol- or peroxide-containing mouthwashes as they may worsen mouth inflammation. Stay well-hydrated with non-alcoholic fluids during treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful before you drive or use any machines or tools until you know how Itovebi affects you.
Storage
Store Itovebi at room temperature (below 30°C) in a cool, dry place away from moisture or heat. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Keep it where young children cannot reach it.
Overdose Information
If you think you have taken too much Itovebi, you may need urgent medical attention. Immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26), contact your doctor, or go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Itovebi can be taken with or without food.
No, Itovebi is not addictive.
If you miss your dose at the usual time, you may still take it up to 9 hours after the scheduled time. If it has been more than 9 hours, skip the missed dose and take your next dose when you are supposed to the next day. Do not take a double dose.
It is recommended that you continue using Itovebi until your cancer progresses or until any side effects become unacceptable. Your doctor will monitor your progress and advise you.
If you vomit after taking a dose of Itovebi, do not take an extra dose on that day. Take your regular dose at your usual time the next day.
Yes, your doctor may do blood tests before and regularly during treatment to monitor your blood sugar levels. You may also be asked to monitor your blood sugar at home, especially during the first 4 weeks of treatment.
Yes, if you are aged 65 years or over, you can use Itovebi at the same dose as other adults.
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.