Tabrecta (Capmatinib) – Targeted Oral Therapy for MET-Mutant mNSCLC

Tabrecta (capmatinib) is a targeted oral kinase inhibitor approved for treating adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors harbor a MET exon 14 skipping mutation. Tabrecta blocks the MET receptor tyrosine kinase to inhibit tumor growth in MET-driven lung cancer.

Active Ingredient
Capmatinib

Other Brand Names
Tabrecta (brand name)

Capmatinib (generic name)

Kinase inhibitor for MET exon 14 skipping mutations

Drug Classification
Therapeutic Class: Targeted anticancer agent

Pharmacological Class: MET receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor

Mechanism of Action
Capmatinib selectively inhibits MET receptor phosphorylation—both ligand-induced and autophosphorylation—disrupting downstream signaling that drives proliferation and survival of MET-dependent cancer cells

Indications / Approved Use
Tabrecta is indicated for adult patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors harbor MET exon 14 skipping, confirmed by an FDA-approved test. This approval was granted under the accelerated pathway based on tumor response and duration of response

Dosage & Administration
Recommended dose: 400 mg orally twice daily, with or without food

Available strengths: 150 mg and 200 mg tablets

Dose adjustments for adverse events:

Reduce to 300 mg BID, then 200 mg BID if needed; discontinue if 200 mg BID cannot be tolerated

Safety Information
Warnings & Precautions
ILD / Pneumonitis: Occurred in ~4.8% of GEOMETRY mono-1 patients; often severe, and can be fatal. Discontinue if suspected

Hepatotoxicity: 15% experienced ALT/AST elevations; ≥Grade 3 in 7%—monitor liver function regularly
FDA Access Data

Pancreatic Toxicity: Elevated amylase/lipase in 14%; Grade 3/4 levels in ~9%; monitor and modify dose accordingly

Photosensitivity: Advise UV protection (e.g., sunscreen, protective clothing)
FDA Access Data

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Discontinue if indicated

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm; recommend contraception during and for 1 week post-treatment. Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding
FDA Access Data

Adverse Reactions
Most common (≥20%):

Peripheral edema (59%)

Nausea (46%)

Musculoskeletal pain (40%)

Fatigue (34%)

Vomiting (28%)

Dyspnea (25%)

Cough (21%)

Decreased appetite (21%)

Drug Interactions
Avoid strong/moderate CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin) as they lower exposure and efficacy.

Use caution with CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., itraconazole), which raise capmatinib levels and may increase adverse effects

Capmatinib may increase levels of CYP1A2 substrates; monitor accordingly

Storage
Store tablets at 20–25 °C (68–77 °F).

Keep in original packaging with desiccant; discard unused tablets after 6 weeks of opening
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take for Tabrecta to work?
While response varies, clinical trials show significant tumor response within weeks in patients with MET exon 14–skipping mutations

Q2: Can Tabrecta cure lung cancer?
No. Tabrecta treats cancers with MET exon 14–skipping. It improves response rates and duration but is not curative.

Q3: Is Tabrecta a chemotherapy drug?
No. It is a targeted kinase inhibitor, not traditional chemotherapy
Healthline
Q4: What should patients avoid while on Tabrecta?
Avoid UV exposure (use sunscreen/clothing), strong CYP3A inducers/inhibitors, pregnancy, and breastfeeding

Q5: Are genetic tests required before taking Tabrecta?
Yes. Only patients with MET exon 14 skipping mutations, confirmed via FDA-approved test, are eligible