Major research findings

Avapritinib is an effective kinase inhibitor for the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). 4 , 6 . GISTs are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. 7 . Avapritinib is particularly effective in treating GISTs caused by mutations in the KIT gene or PDGFRA gene. 7 . Avapritinib is also a treatment option for GIST patients who have not responded to multiple lines of treatment. 6 . Avapritinib is currently being investigated in clinical trials for the treatment of systemic mastocytosis. 4 .

Reasons for side effects

Avapritinib inhibits the function of proteins such as KIT and PDGFRA, thereby suppressing tumor growth. However, these proteins also play an important role in the growth and function of normal cells. Therefore, avapritinib can affect normal cells and cause side effects. 4 .

Common side effects

Eye side effects

Eye inflammation has been reported as a side effect of avapritinib. 1 . Specifically, blepharitis, intraocular inflammation, and persistent corneal epithelial defects have been reported. 1 . These symptoms may improve if avapritinib administration is stopped. 1 . However, it is also possible to reduce the frequency of side effects by reducing the dose of avapritinib. 1 .

Other

Cognitive impairment and alopecia have also been reported as side effects of avapritinib. 2 . Avapritinib administration may also cause long-term side effects such as osteoporosis and tremors. 2 . Avapritinib has also been reported to cause gastrointestinal side effects. 8 . These side effects may be reduced by reducing the dose of avapritinib. 8 .

Side effects countermeasures

Eye side effects

If eye inflammation occurs due to avapritinib administration, treatment such as steroid drugs and corneal regenerative drugs will be performed. 1 .

Other

If long-term side effects such as osteoporosis and tremors occur due to avapritinib administration, measures such as calcium and vitamin D intake and exercise therapy are effective. 2 . If gastrointestinal side effects occur, measures such as dietary therapy and drug therapy will be performed. 8 .

Comparison between studies

Commonalities of research

Multiple studies have shown that avapritinib is effective in treating GISTs. 6 , 7 , 4 . Studies have also commonly shown that avapritinib is particularly effective in treating GISTs caused by mutations in the KIT gene or PDGFRA gene. 7 , 4 . Moreover, avapritinib has been suggested to be a viable treatment option for GIST patients who have not responded to multiple lines of treatment. 6 .

Differences in research

Studies have shown that the frequency and type of side effects of avapritinib vary. 2 . For example, one study reports eye inflammation as a side effect of avapritinib. 1 . Another study, on the other hand, reports side effects such as cognitive impairment and alopecia. 2 . These differences may be due to factors such as the characteristics of the research subjects and the dose of avapritinib administered.

Precautions for real-life application

While avapritinib is an effective drug for treating GISTs and systemic mastocytosis, it is important to understand that there is a risk of side effects. 8 . When considering avapritinib administration, it is important to consult with a physician and understand the risks and benefits before making an informed decision. 8 .

Limitations of current research

Research on the side effects of avapritinib is still insufficient. 2 . Further investigation is needed, especially regarding long-term side effects. 2 .

Future research directions

Further research is needed to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of avapritinib. 2 . It is also important to develop countermeasures to reduce the side effects of avapritinib. 2 .

Conclusion

Avapritinib is an effective drug for treating GISTs and systemic mastocytosis, but it is important to understand that there is a risk of side effects. 8 . When considering avapritinib administration, it is important to consult with a physician and understand the risks and benefits before making an informed decision. 8 .