From the Guidelines
Capivasertib, an AKT inhibitor, can potentially cause colitis as a side effect, though it is not among the most commonly reported adverse events. In clinical trials, gastrointestinal toxicities have been observed with capivasertib, including diarrhea, which in severe cases can be associated with colonic inflammation. The risk appears to be dose-dependent and may be more pronounced when capivasertib is combined with other anticancer therapies. Some key points to consider when evaluating the risk of colitis in patients taking capivasertib include:
- Monitoring for symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in stool, or fever, which could indicate colitis 1.
- The mechanism behind this side effect likely relates to AKT's role in maintaining intestinal epithelial integrity and regulating immune responses in the gut 1.
- AKT inhibition may disrupt these protective functions, potentially leading to inflammatory conditions in the colon.
- If colitis is suspected, temporary dose interruption, reduction, or discontinuation may be necessary, along with appropriate supportive care and anti-inflammatory treatments 1. It is essential to note that the diagnosis and management of immune checkpoint inhibitor colitis and hepatitis have been well outlined in recent clinical practice updates, which may also be applicable to patients taking capivasertib 1.
From the Research
Capivasertib and Colitis
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that capivasertib causes colitis 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on the use of capivasertib in the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer with PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alterations 4, 5, 6.
- Common adverse reactions reported in clinical trials of capivasertib include diarrhea, cutaneous skin reactions, nausea, fatigue, and vomiting 4, 5, 6, but colitis is not specifically mentioned as an adverse event.
- Ulcerative colitis is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disorder that causes continuous mucosal inflammation in the colon, and its diagnosis and treatment are discussed in studies 2, 3, but there is no connection made to capivasertib.