Alecensa contains the active ingredient alectinib, an oral targeted therapy classified as an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor. It is used for the treatment of patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a subtype of lung cancer characterized by abnormalities in the ALK gene. Alecensa is commonly prescribed for patients whose tumors test positive for ALK rearrangements using an approved diagnostic test.

Alectinib works by selectively blocking the activity of the ALK protein, which can promote the growth and survival of cancer cells when altered or overexpressed. By inhibiting this pathway, Alecensa helps reduce tumor growth, delay disease progression, and improve clinical outcomes. The medication has also demonstrated activity against cancer that has spread to the brain, a common complication of ALK-positive NSCLC.

Alecensa is administered orally in capsule form and is typically taken twice daily with food. Treatment is generally continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. Clinical studies have shown significant benefits in progression-free survival and overall disease control compared with earlier treatment options for ALK-positive NSCLC.

Common side effects may include fatigue, constipation, swelling of the hands, feet, or face, muscle pain, anemia, and elevated liver enzymes. Serious adverse reactions can include liver toxicity, lung inflammation, severe muscle problems, kidney impairment, and slow heart rate. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is recommended during treatment.