Rasonque (daraxonrasib) is used to treat pancreatic cancer that has spread (metastatic). It may help slow the cancer’s growth and help people live longer.
Like most medicines, Rasonque may cause side effects. Some are more common than others, and some may improve as your body adjusts to treatment.
Keep reading to learn about the common side effects of Rasonque, what you can do to prevent them, what to do if they happen, and when to tell your health care provider.
This article does not include all possible side effects of Rasonque. Tell your health care provider if you have side effects that are ongoing or bother you, even if they are not listed.
Common Rasonque Side Effects
The most common side effects reported in clinical studies include:
- Skin reactions, such as rash, dry skin, and itching
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores (stomatitis)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tiredness or weakness (fatigue)
- Swelling in the arms or legs (edema)
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
In most cases, these side effects can be managed, and some improve over time. However, contact your health care provider if you have symptoms that feel severe or do not go away. Do not stop taking Rasonque unless your provider recommends it.
Serious Side Effects of Rasonque
Less common but potentially serious side effects of Rasonque include:
- Severe skin reactions
- Tears in the stomach or intestines (gastrointestinal perforation)
- Lung or breathing problems (interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis)
- Serious bleeding
- Allergic reactions
If you think you may be having a serious side effect, contact your health care provider right away. In some cases, severe symptoms may require urgent medical care. Your provider can evaluate your symptoms and explain what steps to take next.
Tips for Managing Rasonque Side Effects
Some side effects can be managed with simple strategies. The sections below explain common Rasonque side effects and what you can do to help prevent or relieve them.
Skin reactions
Skin reactions are the most common side effect of Rasonque. In studies, most people had some type of skin reaction, and it was one of the main reasons why doses were paused or lowered. Skin reactions often start within the first few weeks of treatment.
Possible symptoms include rash, dry or flaky skin, itching, cracked skin, and redness or discoloration.
Your provider will likely have you start some or all of these protective steps before or when you begin Rasonque to reduce this risk. The steps may include the following:
- Use a steroid cream on your face and chest, as directed.
- Use a moisturizer on your skin every day.
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and limit time in the sun. Wear a hat and protective clothing outdoors.
- Take a preventive antibiotic, if your provider prescribes one.
- Choose gentle, fragrance-free skin and cleaning products.
Tell your health care provider about any skin reactions that you have, especially if it gets worse or does not improve. They may prescribe a treatment, adjust your dose, or pause the medicine. If a skin reaction is severe, blistering, or widespread, contact your health care provider right away.
Mouth sores (stomatitis)
Mouth sores are a common side effect of Rasonque and were another common reason doses were paused. Symptoms may include mouth pain, redness, swelling, sores or ulcers, and trouble eating, talking, or swallowing.
These tips may help soothe mouth sores:
- Use a mouthwash if your provider prescribes one. Choose an alcohol-free rinse, or rinse with a mix of warm water, salt, and baking soda.
- Eat soft, bland foods, and avoid spicy, acidic, crunchy, or very hot foods and drinks.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and keep up with good oral care.
- Sip water often to keep your mouth moist.
Tell your provider if mouth sores make it hard to eat or drink, or if they do not improve. They may prescribe a treatment, adjust your dose, or pause or stop the medicine.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Rasonque. It can start early in treatment, as early as within the first few days. It is important to stay on top of this because loose or frequent stools can lead to dehydration if not managed.
Tips to help manage diarrhea:
- Take an antidiarrheal medicine, such as loperamide, if your provider says it is okay.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Eat bland, low-fiber foods, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or high-fiber foods, and limit caffeine.
Tell your health care provider right away if you have new or worsening diarrhea or signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dark urine, or a very dry mouth.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea (feeling like you might throw up) and vomiting are common with Rasonque. These symptoms often improve with a few simple changes.
Tips to help prevent or ease nausea:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones, and stop eating when you feel full.
- Choose bland foods, such as crackers, rice, or toast, and avoid greasy or strong-smelling foods.
- Sip clear liquids throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Try ginger or peppermint tea.
Ask your provider whether an anti-nausea medicine could help. Call your provider if you cannot keep down food or liquids or your vomiting is severe or does not go away.
Tiredness (fatigue)
Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Rasonque. Fatigue can have many causes during cancer treatment, including changes in your blood counts.
To help support your energy, try to:
- Rest when you need to, and keep a regular sleep schedule.
- Include some light activity, such as short walks, if your provider says it is safe. Too little activity can make tiredness worse.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet and stay hydrated.
- Ask family or friends for help with daily tasks, and try to manage stress.
Tell your health care provider if fatigue is severe or does not improve. They may check for other causes, such as low blood counts, and suggest ways to manage it.
Loss of appetite
Rasonque can cause a loss of appetite, which can make it hard to eat enough and keep up your strength. These tips may help you deal with it:
- Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day instead of three large meals.
- Choose foods that are higher in calories and protein to get more nutrition from smaller amounts.
- Keep easy-to-eat snacks on hand, and try to eat on a schedule even when you are not hungry.
- Ask your care team whether a dietitian could help with a plan that works for you.
Let your provider know if you are losing weight or having trouble eating while taking Rasonque.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rasonque Side Effects
Does Rasonque cause hair loss?
Hair loss was not a common side effect in Rasonque studies. This is different from some cancer medicines, such as chemotherapy, which often cause hair loss. If you notice a lot of hair thinning or other changes, tell your provider so they can look into the cause.
Does Rasonque affect my blood tests?
Yes. Rasonque can change certain blood test results. It can lower blood cell counts and affect the levels of things such as albumin, calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium. It can also change kidney and liver test results. Your provider will likely check your blood regularly and treat any changes if needed. Most of these changes do not cause symptoms you can feel.
Reducing Your Risk of Rasonque Side Effects
You can reduce your risk of side effects by:
- Taking Rasonque exactly as prescribed
- Following any instructions about when and how to take the medicine
- Keeping track of any new or changing symptoms and sharing them with your health care provider
- Telling your health care provider about side effects that do not improve or start to interfere with daily activities
Your health care provider can help you decide whether changes to your treatment plan are needed.
