Medical Information

Anamorelin, as a selective ghrelin receptor agonist, has shown clinical efficacy in improving weight and muscle mass in cancer cachexia patients, but its efficacy needs to be evaluated based on individual circumstances and potential adverse reactions should be noted.

1. Clinical efficacy evidence

(1) Weight gain: In a phase III clinical trial, non-small cell lung cancer patients gained an average of 1.38kg in weight after 12 weeks of medication, which was significantly better than the placebo group

(2) Improvement in muscle mass: DXA scan shows that the patient's lean body mass index (LBMI) is maintained or slightly increased

(3) Appetite stimulation: 83% of patients reported significant improvement in appetite, which helps increase nutrient intake

2. Differences in effectiveness among applicable populations

(1) Non small cell lung cancer: the most significant improvement in cachexia symptoms for advanced patients

(2) Colorectal cancer: second in efficacy, requiring longer medication observation

(3) Other cancers: the effect of patients with digestive system tumors such as pancreatic cancer is relatively limited

3. Duration of therapeutic effect

(1) Short term effect: Improvement in appetite can be observed within 2 weeks of medication

(2) Mid term effect: reaching peak weight gain within 8-12 weeks

(3) Long term maintenance: Continuous medication is required to maintain effectiveness, and may rebound after discontinuation

4 factors affecting therapeutic efficacy

(1) Disease staging: The effect is more significant in late stage patients compared to early stage patients

(2) Nutritional support: Combined nutritional intervention can enhance effectiveness

(3) Liver function status: Patients with severe liver damage need to adjust dosage