What orkambi is and what it is for

Orkambi is a medicine that contains lumacaftor and ivacaftor, which are substances used to treat cystic fibrosis, which is a hereditary disease that has serious effects on the lungs and digestive system.

This remedy is available in the form of pills in two different strengths and can only be prescribed by a doctor experienced in the treatment of cystic fibrosis.

What is it for

Orkambi is a medicine used to treat cystic fibrosis in people aged 6 years and over.

Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease that causes the production of very thick secretions in the lungs and digestive tract, because it affects cells that produce mucus and digestive juices, which can cause obstructions, inflammation and chronic infection. This disease can appear in childhood and adulthood. Know the most common symptoms.

How to use

This medicine should only be prescribed to patients with the F508del mutation confirmed on both copies of the CFTR gene and the dose administered depends on the person's age:

Adults and children over 12 years of age: The recommended dose is 2 tablets of 200 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor, taken at 12 hour intervals with foods containing fats; Children between 6 and 12 years of age: The recommended dose is 2 tablets of 100 mg of lumacaftor and 125 mg of ivacaftor, taken at 12 hour intervals with foods containing fats.

Foods high in fat that can be eaten with tablets can be meals prepared with butter or oils, foods that contain eggs, cheese, nuts, whole milk or meats.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects associated with this medication are shortness of breath, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, nausea, nasal congestion, cough with sputum and abdominal pain.

The most serious side effects that can occur are liver problems, such as increased levels of liver enzymes, accumulation of bile that leads to inflammation of the liver and liver encephalopathy.