Alpelisib-Induced Diabetes Mellitus: Case Report, Pharmacodynamics and Management Considerations
Begoña Pla Peris1, Alfonso Arranz Martin2, Anabel Ballesteros García3
1Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital Universitario de Castellón, Castellón, Spain.
Introduction:
Alpelisib is an orally selective PI3K alpha inhibitor recently available for the treatment of advanced breast cancer. PI3K pathway is an intracellular signaling pathway that plays an important role in regulating glucose metabolism. Hyperglycemia is the most common adverse event associated.
Methods:
We describe the case of a severe hyperglycemia associated with alpelisib treatment in a patient with metastatic breast cancer and previously near-normal glycemia. We analyze the clinical presentation, PI3K inhibitor pharmacodynamic aspects, its influence in glycemic control and the required treatment approach.
Results:
An important impairment of glycemic control was observed after initiation of alpelisib. In addition to insulin sensitizers drugs, intensive insulin regimen was necessary. Flash glucose monitoring (FGM) information has been helpful in understanding the pharmacodynamic aspects of alpelisib and insulin titration. Development of hyperglycemia is fast, already observed 24 hours after initiation of therapy. FGM shows severe and persistent hyperglycemia during most of the day, with a significant downward effect in the 4 hours after each daily intake, which evidences the strong but transitory effect of the drug enzyme blockade. C-peptide level is remarkable in accordance with drug pharmacodynamics, consistent with a significant insulin resistance.
Conclusions:
Glucose monitoring should always be performed in patients treated with alpelisib, especially in patients with diabetes and prediabetes. It is crucial to anticipate in these patients. Any delay can lead to a worsening in metabolic control resulting in the discontinuation or reduction of alpelisib, which would lead to a decrease in its effectiveness, and consequently would deny patients an effective treatment with an impact on survival.
Insights
Severe hyperglycemia is a common adverse event associated with alpelisib treatment for advanced breast cancer. Close glucose monitoring and intensive insulin therapy are crucial for managing this side effect and ensuring treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Alpelisib, a PI3K alpha inhibitor, treats advanced breast cancer.
- The PI3K pathway regulates glucose metabolism.
- Hyperglycemia is a known adverse event of alpelisib.
Observation:
- A patient with metastatic breast cancer experienced severe hyperglycemia after starting alpelisib.
- Flash glucose monitoring revealed rapid onset and persistent hyperglycemia.
- C-peptide levels indicated significant insulin resistance.
Findings:
- Alpelisib significantly impairs glycemic control, necessitating intensive insulin regimens.
- Hyperglycemia develops rapidly (within 24 hours) and is transiently affected by drug intake.
- Flash glucose monitoring aids in understanding alpelisib's pharmacodynamics and insulin titration.
Implications:
- Continuous glucose monitoring is essential for patients on alpelisib, particularly those with pre-existing diabetes or prediabetes.
- Prompt management of hyperglycemia is critical to prevent treatment discontinuation and maintain efficacy.
- Effective glycemic control ensures patients receive the full benefits of alpelisib, potentially impacting survival.
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