LuciAnam 50mg, Anamorelin Tablets

LuciAnam 50mg, containing the active ingredient anamorelin hydrochloride, is an oral medication primarily used to treat cancer cachexia—a complex syndrome characterized by unintended weight loss, muscle wasting, and decreased appetite in patients with advanced cancers. 

Anamorelin functions as a selective ghrelin receptor agonist, mimicking the action of the naturally occurring hormone ghrelin, which plays a pivotal role in regulating appetite and energy balance.

What is LuciAnam 50mg (Anamorelin Hydrochloride)?

Anamorelin is classified as a ghrelin receptor agonist, meaning it mimics the natural hunger hormone ghrelin. By activating the ghrelin receptors in the brain (particularly the hypothalamus), it helps stimulate appetite, increase growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, and promote lean body mass.

LuciAnam is specifically designed to support patients with cancers such as:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Pancreatic cancer
• Gastric (stomach) cancer
• Colorectal cancer
  

Cachexia is not only physically debilitating but also impacts the effectiveness of cancer treatments and survival. LuciAnam offers a non-invasive, manageable option to help reverse some of these effects and improve patients’ nutritional and functional status.

Mechanism of Action

Anamorelin binds with high affinity to the ghrelin receptor (growth hormone secretagogue receptor, GHSR), stimulating the release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) from the pituitary gland. This cascade leads to increased appetite, enhanced lean body mass, and improved muscle strength, thereby addressing the core symptoms of cancer cachexia. 

Indications

LuciAnam 50mg is indicated for:

• Cancer cachexia in individuals with colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and unresectable advanced and recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Patients exhibiting significant weight loss (over 5%) within six months, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, decreased muscle strength, and abnormal laboratory values (e.g., elevated C-reactive protein, low hemoglobin, or albumin levels). 

Dosage and Administration

• Do not take two doses; if you miss one, take it as soon as you remember, unless the following dose is practically due.
• Duration of Treatment: Typically, treatment duration is up to 12 weeks. If no significant improvement is observed after 3 weeks, reconsideration of therapy is advised. 

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Hyperglycemia : Elevated blood sugar levels — more common in patients with diabetes.
• Fatigue : Mild tiredness or low energy, especially during the first few weeks.
• Nausea : May occur initially but often resolves with continued use.
• Appetite Increase : Although a desired effect, it can be excessive in some individuals.
• Mild hand or foot swelling brought on by fluid retention is known as peripheral edema.

Serious side effects include:

• Severe Hyperglycemia : Particularly in diabetic patients; regular blood sugar monitoring is essential.
• Fluid Overload : In patients with heart or kidney problems, excess fluid retention may become dangerous.
• Drug-Drug Interactions : Can increase adverse effects when taken with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
• increased AST and ALT levels in the liver, which can be reversed by stopping the medication.

Monitoring Recommendations During Use:

• Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetics)
• Liver function tests (LFTs) every few weeks
• Weight and appetite assessments
• Signs of fluid retention or swelling

Storage

• Temperature : 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F)
• Humidity : Store in a dry place
• Light Protection : Keep in original packaging; avoid sunlight
• Freezing : Do not freeze
• Disposal : Follow local medicine disposal policies
• Protect from light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Benefits

LuciAnam 50mg provides a targeted and effective approach to managing cancer cachexia by combining appetite stimulation with muscle preservation. These benefits translate into greater functional ability, improved treatment tolerance, and enhanced quality of life—key outcomes in the supportive care of cancer patients.

• notable rise in body weight and lean body mass.
• increased appetite and decreased anorexia-cachexia symptoms.
• increased functional ability and muscle strength.

Prescription 

LuciAnam 50mg is a prescription-only medication. It should be prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals experienced in managing cancer cachexia. Prior to initiation, assess for contraindications such as hypersensitivity to anamorelin or concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) may increase anamorelin plasma concentrations, necessitating dose adjustments.
• CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs that induce CYP3A4 (e.g., rifampin) may decrease anamorelin efficacy.
• Antidiabetic Medications: Monitor blood glucose levels closely when used with insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents due to potential additive effects on blood sugar. 

FAQs

• How long does it take to see results?

Some patients may begin to notice improvements in appetite and weight within the first few weeks; however, full benefits may take up to 12 weeks.

• Can LuciAnam be used with chemotherapy or radiation?

Yes. It is designed to support patients undergoing cancer treatments by improving nutritional and physical status, which may enhance treatment tolerance and recovery. However, always inform your oncologist before combining therapies.

• How long can I take LuciAnam?

LuciAnam is typically used for up to 12 weeks. Your doctor will monitor your response, weight, appetite, and lab results to decide whether to continue.

• Is LuciAnam safe for diabetic patients?

Caution is advised. LuciAnam can raise blood sugar levels, so diabetic patients need regular glucose monitoring and possible adjustments in their diabetic medications.

Conclusion

LuciAnam 50mg (anamorelin hydrochloride) offers a targeted approach to managing cancer cachexia by stimulating appetite and promoting muscle growth. 

While not a cure for cachexia, LuciAnam represents a significant advancement in supportive cancer care. It helps address the debilitating symptoms of weight loss and muscle wasting that affect prognosis and quality of life. Used appropriately, it can contribute meaningfully to comprehensive palliative and oncologic care strategies.