Piqray (Alpelisib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Piqray Used For?
Piqray is a medication that contains the active ingredient alpelisib, used in combination with fulvestrant to treat specific types of advanced breast cancer in adult men and women.
Primary Uses
Piqray is primarily used to treat advanced breast cancer that has specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene.
How It Works
Piqray works by inhibiting certain enzymes that promote the growth and multiplication of cancer cells, thereby slowing down or stopping cancer progression.
Good to know: Piqray is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Piqray
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Piqray to ensure effective treatment.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose of Piqray is 300 mg, which is taken as two 150 mg tablets once daily, immediately after food.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take Piqray, you can take it up to 9 hours after your usual time. If more than 9 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
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:
- Frequent painful urination
- Tiredness
- Pale skin
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Strange taste or lack of taste
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Rash
- Hair loss/thinning
- Itching
- Dry skin
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Fever
- Dry mouth
- Weight loss
- Sudden bruising
- Cracked lips
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe rash or hives
- Blisters on lips, eyes, or mouth
- Severe abdominal pain
- Blood or mucus in stools
Impulse Control Issues
There is no specific mention of impulse control issues related to Piqray.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before and during treatment with Piqray.
Who Should Not Take Piqray
Do not use Piqray if you have had an allergic reaction to alpelisib, fulvestrant, or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any existing medical conditions, especially high blood sugar levels, with your doctor before starting Piqray.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Piqray may harm an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy unless necessary. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Piqray and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: There are no specific warnings regarding grapefruit interactions mentioned.
- Eltrombopag
- Lapatinib
- Ribociclib
- Everolimus
- Pantoprazole
- Midazolam
- Rifampicin
- Encorafenib
- Warfarin
Alcohol & Driving
While taking Piqray, be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery.
Alcohol
There are no known interactions between Piqray and alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Piqray may cause tiredness; therefore, be careful when driving or using machines.
Temperature Regulation
There are no specific warnings regarding temperature regulation mentioned.
Storage
Store Piqray below 30°C and protect it from moisture. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Piqray, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Piqray to show effects can vary by individual; consult your doctor for personalized information.
Yes, Piqray should be taken immediately after food.
No, Piqray is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Piqray suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
There are no known interactions between Piqray and alcohol, but it is advisable to drink in moderation.
Weight changes are not specifically mentioned; consult your doctor for more information.
Elderly patients should use Piqray with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it within 9 hours after your usual time. If more than 9 hours have passed, skip the missed dose.
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.