Major research findings

Ripretinib is an effective treatment for advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) that have not responded adequately to previous treatments with kinase inhibitors. 2 , 5 , 4 Ripretinib works by blocking the growth of tumor cells by targeting mutations in the KIT and PDGFRA genes, which are involved in the development and growth of GIST. 5 The INVICTUS trial showed that ripretinib significantly increased the length of time patients survived before their cancer got worse compared to a placebo. 5 Ripretinib was also effective in patients who had previously been treated with other kinase inhibitors, such as imatinib, sunitinib, and regorafenib. 5 These results suggest that ripretinib is a valuable new treatment option for advanced GIST. 4

Reasons for side effects

Ripretinib is a kinase inhibitor that blocks the growth and survival of cells by targeting the KIT and PDGFRA genes. 5 This means that it can affect both cancer cells and healthy cells. 5 Specifically, ripretinib can affect muscle cells, leading to side effects such as muscle pain and fatigue. 1 The effects of ripretinib on muscle cells are believed to be related to mitochondrial dysfunction. 1 Mitochondria are essential organelles that play a crucial role in energy production in cells. 1 If mitochondrial function is impaired, the muscles will not have enough energy to function properly, leading to muscle pain and fatigue. 1

Common side effects

Lipase increase

Ripretinib can cause an increase in lipase levels, which is an enzyme that breaks down fats. 2

Hypertension

Ripretinib can cause hypertension, which is high blood pressure. 2

Fatigue

Ripretinib can cause fatigue, which is a feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. 2 , 1

Hypophosphataemia

Ripretinib can cause hypophosphataemia, which is a low level of phosphate in the blood. 2

Myalgia

Ripretinib can cause myalgia, which is muscle pain. 1

Side effects management

Lipase increase

If lipase levels increase, ripretinib may need to be stopped or the dose reduced. 2

Hypertension

If hypertension develops, medication such as antihypertensive drugs may be necessary. 2

Fatigue

If fatigue is experienced, getting enough rest and conserving energy is important. 1

Hypophosphataemia

If hypophosphataemia develops, phosphate supplementation may be needed. 2

Myalgia

If myalgia is experienced, ripretinib may need to be stopped or the dose reduced. 1 Stretching and massage may also help to relieve muscle pain. 1

Comparison between studies

Commonalities between studies

Several studies have shown that ripretinib is an effective treatment for advanced GIST. 2 , 5 , 4 Ripretinib has also been shown to be effective in patients who have previously been treated with other kinase inhibitors. 5 These studies suggest that ripretinib may be a valuable new treatment option for advanced GIST. 4

Differences between studies

There are differences in the frequency and severity of side effects reported in different studies. 2 , 1 This is likely due to differences in factors such as patient age, gender, health status, and ripretinib dosage. 2 , 1

Precautions for applying to real life

While ripretinib is an effective treatment for advanced GIST, it's important to understand the risks of side effects. 2 , 1 Before starting ripretinib, it's crucial to consult with a doctor and understand your health status and the risks of side effects. 2 , 1 It's essential to have regular doctor visits while taking ripretinib. 2 If any side effects are experienced, consult your doctor promptly. 2 , 1

Limitations of current research

There is still a limited amount of research on ripretinib, and long-term effects are not yet fully understood. 2 The effects and side effects of ripretinib can vary from patient to patient. 2 Furthermore, studies on the side effects of ripretinib have mainly been conducted in vitro or in vivo, and further research is needed to understand its effects and side effects in humans. 1

Directions for future research

More research is needed to assess the long-term effects and safety of ripretinib. 2 Human clinical trials are required to investigate the effects and side effects of ripretinib in greater detail. 2 Specifically, elucidating the detailed mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction caused by ripretinib could lead to the development of new treatments to reduce its side effects. 1

Conclusion

Ripretinib has been shown to be an effective treatment for advanced GIST. 2 , 5 , 4 However, ripretinib carries the risk of side effects, so it's essential to consult with your doctor before taking it and understand your health status and the risks of side effects. 2 , 1 Regular doctor visits are necessary while taking ripretinib. 2 If any side effects are experienced, consult your doctor immediately. 2 , 1