Description

Pivikto (Alpelisib)

Overview

Pivikto is a prescription anticancer medicine containing Alpelisib, a targeted therapy that belongs to a class of drugs known as PI3K inhibitors. It is used in combination with fulvestrant for the treatment of certain types of advanced or metastatic breast cancer in patients whose tumors have a PIK3CA gene mutation. Pivikto helps slow the growth and spread of cancer cells by blocking abnormal signals that promote cancer cell survival and multiplication.

Uses

Pivikto is indicated for:

• Hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer
• HER2-negative breast cancer
• PIK3CA-mutated advanced or metastatic breast cancer
• Patients whose disease has progressed after endocrine (hormone-based) therapy

The medicine is generally prescribed together with fulvestrant after confirmation of a PIK3CA mutation through an approved diagnostic test.

How Pivikto Works

Pivikto contains alpelisib, which selectively inhibits the PI3K-alpha enzyme. In many breast cancers, mutations in the PIK3CA gene cause overactivation of the PI3K pathway, leading to uncontrolled cancer cell growth. By blocking this pathway, Pivikto helps reduce tumor growth and may improve treatment outcomes.

Dosage and Administration

• Take Pivikto exactly as prescribed by your oncologist.
• It is usually taken once daily with food.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or split.
• The dose may be adjusted depending on treatment response and side effects.

Common Side Effects

Patients may experience:

• High blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Mouth sores (stomatitis)
• Hair thinning or hair loss

Most side effects are manageable with appropriate monitoring and supportive care.

Serious Warnings

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:

• Severe skin reactions
• Persistent or severe diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing or signs of lung inflammation
• Symptoms of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unusual fatigue
• Severe allergic reactions

Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and other laboratory parameters is recommended during treatment.

Precautions

Before starting Pivikto, inform your doctor if you:

• Have diabetes or prediabetes
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking any other prescription medicines or supplements

Effective contraception should be used during treatment, as Pivikto may harm an unborn baby.

Conclusion

Pivikto (Alpelisib) is an important targeted therapy for patients with HR-positive, HER2-negative, PIK3CA-mutated advanced breast cancer. By specifically targeting the PI3K pathway, it offers a personalized treatment approach and may help improve disease control when used alongside hormonal therapy. Treatment should always be supervised by a qualified oncology specialist.