Larotrectinib

Larotrectinib (pronounced la-roh-TREK-ti-nib) is a cancer drug used for the treatment of solid tumors with a neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusion. It is marketed under the brand name Vitrakvi.

Etymology

The name Larotrectinib is derived from the components of its molecular target and its chemical structure. 'La' stands for lazertinib, 'ro' for rosiglitazone, 't' for tyrosine, 'rec' for receptor, and 'tinib' is a common suffix for tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Usage

Larotrectinib is used for the treatment of solid tumors that have a neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusion. This includes tumors that are located in the lung, thyroid, colon, melanoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), and others. The drug is not dependent on the location or type of tumor, but rather on the presence of the NTRK gene fusion.

Mechanism of Action

Larotrectinib works by inhibiting the neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK), which is involved in cellular communication and growth. When the NTRK gene fuses with another gene, it can lead to the development of cancer. By inhibiting this kinase, Larotrectinib can stop the growth of cancer cells.