Zejula Dosage Information: Form, Strengths, Administration, and Additional Details
Zejula, a brand-name drug produced by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating certain types of advanced or recurrent cancer in adults, including epithelial ovarian cancer, cancer of the fallopian tubes, and primary peritoneal cancer. This article aims to provide a clear and concise guide on the usage and dosage of Zejula.
Zejula is an oral tablet, available in three strengths: 100 milligrams (mg), 200 mg, and 300 mg. It is crucial to follow the dosage prescribed by a doctor as the best dosage will be determined to fit individual needs. The dosage for advanced cancer of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum is based on body weight in kilograms and/or platelet count.
If you weigh less than 77 kg (about 170 lb) or have a platelet count of less than 150,000 per microliter (μL) of blood, the prescribed dose of Zejula is 200 mg, taken once per day. Conversely, if you weigh 77 kg or more and have a platelet count of 150,000 per μL or more, your dose of Zejula for advanced cancer of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum is 300 mg, to be taken once per day.
Zejula is intended to be taken as a long-term treatment for recurrent cancer of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum that has a BRCA mutation. It may be taken with or without food, and it may be helpful to take it around the same time of day to maintain a steady level of the drug in the body.
Zejula comes as an oral tablet and is prescribed as a maintenance treatment after a complete or partial response to platinum chemotherapy. It is important to note that Zejula should be swallowed whole and not divided, crushed, chewed, or placed in water.
Missed doses should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at its scheduled time. If you vomit after taking your dose of Zejula, do not take an extra dose. Take your next dose at its scheduled time.
Pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn't have these options, your doctor or pharmacist might be able to recommend a pharmacy that does. Additionally, if you're having trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist about putting Zejula in an easy-open container. They also may recommend tools that can make it easier to open bottles.
Zejula belongs to a drug class called poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and is not available in a generic version. It has been approved in various regions including the European Union and the United States.
Zejula is meant to be taken as a long-term treatment and will continue to be taken as long as it is working for you and you don't have severe side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about Zejula, always consult with your healthcare provider.