How Do Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Work?

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are a class of medications that block the action of enzymes called tyrosine kinases. Masitinib, one of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, has its approval pending from the FDA for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Tyrosine kinase is a naturally occurring enzyme that is responsible for:

• Cell signaling
• Cell growth
• Cell division

Tyrosine kinases may be too active or found in excess in some types of cancer cells. They help to send growth signals in cells, so blocking these enzymes may help keep cancer cells from growing. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors prevent the degeneration of nerves and protect them.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are mainly used for treating certain cancers. Masitinib, one of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, has its approval pending from the FDA for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

As masitinib is still in clinical trials, no adverse effects have been reported.

Generic and brand names of tyrosine kinase inhibitors include:

• Masican (pending FDA approval)
• Masitinib (pending FDA approval)