Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Tukysa (Tucatinib).
Birth control: The effects on the developing baby if either parent is taking Tukysa (Tucatinib) during pregnancy have not been determined. It is likely that exposure to Tukysa (Tucatinib) could cause harm to the baby. Women who could become pregnant and are taking Tukysa (Tucatinib) should use an effective method of birth control such as condoms during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose of Tukysa (Tucatinib).
Men taking Tukysa (Tucatinib) who have partners who could become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose.
Diarrhea: Tukysa (Tucatinib) can cause diarrhea that can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause many symptoms, including decreased urine production, dry and sticky mouth, sleepiness, dizziness, headache, thirst, and confusion. In some cases, dehydration can become a medical emergency. If you have diarrhea or any of these symptoms while taking Tukysa (Tucatinib), let your doctor know.
Hand-foot syndrome: Hand-foot syndrome (Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome) is a side effect of some cancer treatments, including Tukysa (Tucatinib). This side effect causes painful redness, blisters, and swelling on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
Kidney function: Tukysa (Tucatinib) should not be used by people with severely decreased kidney function.
Liver function: Decreased liver function or liver disease may cause Tukysa (Tucatinib) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Tukysa (Tucatinib) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Tukysa (Tucatinib), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Tukysa (Tucatinib) can cause liver damage and decreased liver function. If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: There is no information about the safety and effectiveness of using Tukysa (Tucatinib) while pregnant. Tukysa (Tucatinib) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Tukysa (Tucatinib), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Tukysa (Tucatinib) passes into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding and are taking Tukysa (Tucatinib), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Tukysa (Tucatinib) have not been established for children.