In short
Erdafitinib is an innovative drug being studied in clinical trials for various types of cancer. It works by targeting specific genetic alterations in fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR), which play a role in cancer growth. This article explores the ongoing research into erdafitinib's potential as a treatment for cancers including bladder cancer, lung cancer, and other solid tumors with FGFR alterations.
At a glance
- Drug Name
- Erdafitinib (also known as JNJ-42756493)
- Drug Class
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitor, specifically targeting FGFR1-4
- Administration
- Oral tablet, typically 8 mg once daily, may be increased to 9 mg
- Cancer Types Studied
- Bladder cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, other solid tumors with FGFR alterations
- Key Eligibility Criteria
- Presence of specific FGFR genetic alterations in tumor
- Primary Outcomes Measured
- Objective response rate, progression-free survival, safety and tolerability
- Notable Side Effects
- Changes in phosphate levels, mouth sores, fatigue, vision changes
- Current Status
- In various phases of clinical trials; approved for some indications in certain countries
What is Erdafitinib?
Erdafitinib is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer. It is also known by the brand name Balversa and the research code JNJ-42756493. Erdafitinib is a type of drug called a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which means it works by blocking specific proteins that help cancer cells grow.
How Does Erdafitinib Work?
Erdafitinib specifically targets proteins called fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs). These proteins are involved in cell growth and division. In some cancers, FGFRs can be altered or overactive, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Erdafitinib works by blocking these altered FGFRs, which may help slow or stop cancer growth.
What Conditions Does Erdafitinib Treat?
Erdafitinib is primarily used to treat certain types of cancer that have specific genetic alterations in the FGFR genes. These include:
- Bladder cancer: Erdafitinib is approved by the FDA for treating advanced bladder cancer (also called urothelial cancer) with FGFR alterations.
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Research is ongoing to evaluate erdafitinib's effectiveness in treating NSCLC with FGFR alterations.
- Other solid tumors: Studies are investigating erdafitinib's potential in treating various other cancers with FGFR alterations, including cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer), esophageal cancer, and ovarian cancer.
How is Erdafitinib Given?
Erdafitinib is taken orally as a tablet. The typical starting dose is 8 milligrams (mg) once daily, which may be increased to 9 mg daily based on how well it's tolerated and its effectiveness. Your doctor will determine the right dose for you and may adjust it based on your response to the treatment and any side effects you experience.
Ongoing Research
Several clinical trials are currently investigating erdafitinib's potential in various situations:
- Combination therapy: Researchers are studying how erdafitinib works when combined with other cancer treatments, such as immunotherapy drugs like cetrelimab.
- Earlier stage cancers: Some studies are looking at using erdafitinib before surgery (neoadjuvant treatment) in muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
- Rare cancers: Erdafitinib is being studied in uncommon cancers like steroid cell tumors of the ovary.
- Pediatric cancers: Research is ongoing to evaluate erdafitinib's safety and effectiveness in children and adolescents with solid tumors that have FGFR alterations.
Side Effects
Like all medications, erdafitinib can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:
- Mouth sores (stomatitis)
- Low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia)
- Eye problems
- Skin reactions
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
Your healthcare team will monitor you closely for side effects and can help manage them if they occur. It's important to report any new symptoms or changes in your health to your doctor.