Xermelo

Generic name: Telotristat ethyl

Drug class: Miscellaneous GI agents

Dosage forms: Tablet

Root of administration: Oral

Dose: 250 mg

Mechanism of action: Xermelo is prescribed alongside another medication, such as octreotide (Sandostatin) when octreotide alone isn’t effectively controlling diarrhea. Carcinoid syndrome diarrhea occurs when carcinoid tumors release too much serotonin, causing increased wave-like contractions in the gut (peristalsis). This, in turn, reduces water and electrolyte absorption and leads to diarrhea. Xermelo specifically targets the underlying cause of carcinoid syndrome diarrhea. Xermelo is a tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor that works by blocking the enzyme responsible for serotonin production. By inhibiting this enzyme, Xermelo reduces serotonin is made and helps prevent diarrhea. Xermelo is prescribed together with a somatostatin analog (SSA) therapy, such as octreotide. SSA therapy works by blocking the release of serotonin. When Xermelo is combined with SSA therapy, it helps reduce both the production and release of serotonin, leading to an improvement in diarrhea symptoms.

Drug usage cases: Xermelo (telotristat ethyl) tablets are used to treat carcinoid syndrome diarrhea in adults.

Drug contra indications: Tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease. Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Side effects: Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Xermelo may cause serious side effects. Stop using Xermelo and call your doctor at once if you have:

severe constipation; or severe or worsening stomach pain.

Warnings: Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies. Discontinue this medicine if severe constipation or severe persistent or worsening abdominal pain develops

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.