Analysis of common side effects and treatment methods of pacritinib

Pacritinib is an oral JAK2 inhibitor mainly used to treat myelofibrosis and other myeloproliferative diseases related to abnormalities in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. As a targeted therapy drug, pacitinib can inhibit the activity of JAK2, thereby reducing abnormal cell proliferation and inflammatory response. It has significant effects on relieving splenomegaly, improving hematological indicators and alleviating systemic symptoms. However, pacitinib is also accompanied by a variety of side effects during its clinical application. Understanding its common adverse reactions and treatment methods is crucial for patients' safe use and maintenance of efficacy.

In clinical trials and practical applications, common adverse reactions of pacitinib include digestive system reactions, hematological abnormalities, cardiovascular reactions and infection risks. Digestive system reaction is one of the most common side effects, mainly manifesting as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and abdominal discomfort. In response to these reactions, these reactions can be clinically relieved by taking the medicine in divided doses, taking it after meals, or symptomatic use of antidiarrheal drugs and anti-nausea drugs. At the same time, patients are encouraged to pay attention to a light diet and avoid greasy and irritating foods. For patients with severe or persistent diarrhea, temporary dose reduction or discontinuation should be considered, and adjustments should be made under the guidance of a physician to avoid the risk of electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.

Hematological abnormalities are also issues that need to be monitored during pacitinib treatment. Common manifestations include thrombocytopenia, leukopenia and anemia. This type of side effect is mainly related to the drug's suppression of bone marrow hematopoietic function. Clinically, it is recommended to conduct regular blood routine monitoring before and during treatment. Once a significant decrease in platelets or white blood cells is found, dose reduction, extended dosing interval or temporary discontinuation should be considered based on the patient's specific conditions. Supportive treatment, such as blood transfusion or application of growth factors to stimulate hematopoiesis, should be given if necessary to reduce the risk of infection and bleeding.

In addition, pacitinib may cause cardiovascular reactions, including tachycardia, increased blood pressure, and prolongation of the QT interval. Such side effects require electrocardiogram and blood pressure assessment before medication, and regular review during treatment. For patients with existing cardiovascular disease, it should be used with caution and dosage adjustments should be made under the guidance of a doctor. The risk of infection is also a focus of clinical attention. Because drugs may suppress immune function, patients need to be alert to the occurrence of infections in the respiratory tract, urinary tract and other parts. Once fever or infection symptoms occur, you should seek medical treatment promptly and use anti-infective drugs under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, you should evaluate whether pactinib treatment needs to be suspended.

In general, pacitinib has clear efficacy in the treatment of myelofibrosis and related diseases, but the accompanying side effects involve many aspects such as the digestive system, blood system, cardiovascular and immune functions. Clinically, the impact of adverse reactions on patients should be minimized through regular monitoring, symptomatic treatment, dose adjustment and lifestyle management. Patients should pay close attention to changes in their symptoms while using pacitinib, report it to their doctor in a timely manner, and follow professional guidance for drug management. Through scientific and safe medication strategies, side effects can be effectively controlled while ensuring efficacy, and long-term tolerable treatment effects can be achieved.

Reference materials:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35567653/