Larotrectinib: A Targeted Therapy for Solid Tumors.

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nAlthough neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusions are not common in most cancers, they are present in more than 90% of some rare tumors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved larotrectinib for patients with NTRK gene fusion-positive cancers that meet certain criteria. With ongoing advancements in tumor sequencing, it is anticipated that cancer treatment will be determined by genetic variants rather than by cancer type in the future.\n\n\nOBJECTIVES\nThis article provides an overview of larotrectinib, a targeted therapy.\n\n\nMETHODS\nThis article reviews clinical trial results and highlights implications for oncology nurses caring for patients taking larotrectinib.\n\n\nFINDINGS\nLarotrectinib is an effective treatment option for some patients with NTRK gene fusion-positive cancers. Oncology nurses are key to educating patients on dosing, administration, side effects, and precautions.