The FDA has approved ripretinib (Qinlock) which is the first drug for fourth-line treatment of advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). The therapeutic is approved for use in adults who have previously received treatment with 3 or more kinase inhibitor therapies, including imatinib, sunitinib, and regorafenib. When patients do not respond to these treatments, they may be prescribed Qinlock.
GIST results when abnormal cells form in the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors most likely form in the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Learn more about GIST, which affects roughly 6,000 adults annually in the United States:
“GIST is a complex disease and the majority of patients who initially respond to traditional tyrosine kinase inhibitors eventually develop tumor progression due to secondary mutations,” said Margaret von Mehren, MD, chief of sarcoma oncology and associate director for clinical research at Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Treatment for GIST using Qinlock was granted approval after findings of the INVICTUS study through the Fast Track designation and Priority Review by the FDA, in addition to the Breakthrough Therapy designation.
Some noted side-effects of Qinlcok use includes alopecia, fatigue, vomiting, and a variety of additional gastrointestinal complications. Treatment may also adversely affect a developing fetus during pregnancy and may be a risk for skin cancer, hypertension, and cardiac dysfunction.
“In the INVICTUS study, Qinlock has demonstrated compelling clinical benefit in progression-free and overall survival. Qinlock is well tolerated and is a crucial new therapy for these patients with a high unmet need.”
Source: AJMC
