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Management Strategies for Hyperglycemia Associated with the α-Selective PI3K Inhibitor Alpelisib for the Treatment of
Tsvetalina Tankova1, Elżbieta Senkus2, Maria Beloyartseva3
1Department of Endocrinology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Abstract:
Alpelisib is an α-selective phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor used for treating hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth receptor 2-negative (HER2-), PIK3CA-mutated locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer following disease progression on or after endocrine therapy. Hyperglycemia is an on-target effect of alpelisib affecting approximately 60% of treated patients, and sometimes necessitating dose reductions, treatment interruptions, or discontinuation of alpelisib. Early detection of hyperglycemia and timely intervention have a key role in achieving optimal glycemic control and maintaining alpelisib dose intensity to optimize the benefit of this drug. A glycemic support program implemented by an endocrinology-oncology collaborative team may be very useful in this regard. Lifestyle modifications, mainly comprising a reduced-carbohydrate diet, and a designated stepwise, personalized antihyperglycemic regimen, based on metformin, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, and pioglitazone, are the main tools required to address the insulin-resistant hyperglycemia induced by alpelisib. In this report, based on the consensus of 14 oncologists and seven endocrinologists, we provide guidance for hyperglycemia management strategies before, during, and after alpelisib therapy for HR+, HER2-, PIK3CA-mutated breast cancer, with a focus on a proactive, multidisciplinary approach.
Insights
Alpelisib treatment for PIK3CA-mutated breast cancer can cause hyperglycemia. Early detection and a multidisciplinary glycemic support program are crucial for managing this side effect and optimizing treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Alpelisib is an effective treatment for HR+, HER2- PIK3CA-mutated breast cancer.
- Hyperglycemia is a common on-target side effect of alpelisib, impacting ~60% of patients.
- Unmanaged hyperglycemia can lead to dose modifications or treatment cessation, compromising therapeutic benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide guidance on managing alpelisib-induced hyperglycemia.
- To emphasize the importance of a proactive, multidisciplinary approach.
- To outline strategies for hyperglycemia management before, during, and after alpelisib therapy.
Main Methods:
- Consensus report based on the input of 14 oncologists and 7 endocrinologists.
- Review of alpelisib's mechanism of action and its association with hyperglycemia.
- Development of a stepwise antihyperglycemic regimen and lifestyle modification recommendations.
Main Results:
- Hyperglycemia management requires early detection and timely intervention.
- A collaborative endocrinology-oncology team approach is beneficial.
- Key management tools include lifestyle modifications (reduced-carbohydrate diet) and a personalized antihyperglycemic regimen (metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, pioglitazone).
Conclusions:
- Effective hyperglycemia management is essential for maintaining alpelisib dose intensity and maximizing patient benefit.
- A proactive, multidisciplinary strategy involving lifestyle changes and tailored pharmacotherapy is recommended.
- This guidance supports optimal care for patients with HR+, HER2-, PIK3CA-mutated breast cancer receiving alpelisib.
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