Targeting Genomic Drivers to Optimize ROS1-Directed Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

This activity was originally presented at the 2026 Oncology Pharmacists Connect Conference.

Program Description

Non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, with ROS1 rearrangements identifying a small but critical subset of patients. These patients are often younger and non-smokers and face a high risk of central nervous system (CNS) involvement. While the therapeutic landscape has expanded to include multiple generations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), the emergence of complex resistance mechanisms poses a significant challenge to long-term disease control. This session is designed to equip oncology pharmacists with the advanced clinical and operational expertise required to navigate the evolving treatment landscape in ROS1-rearranged NSCLC. Because ROS1 fusions are often mutually exclusive with other oncogenic drivers, comprehensive biomarker testing via next-generation sequencing (NGS) has become an important first step to ensure these alterations are addressed through appropriate treatment selection and prevents the use of less effective, non-targeted therapies. Oncology pharmacists will explore the mechanistic differentiation of first- and next-generation TKI agents while exploring the clinical implications of investigational therapies. By synthesizing evidence from pivotal trials, this session provides a framework for interpreting NGS sequencing data, selecting initial therapy based on CNS burden, and strategically sequencing agents upon progression. Speakers will emphasize the pharmacist’s role in institutional leadership from embedding retesting triggers into workflows to proactively managing unique toxicity profiles to optimize patient adherence and outcomes.

Target audience: Oncology pharmacists
Type of activity: Application
Release date: June 30, 2026
Expiration date: June 30, 2027
Learner level: Intermediate, Advanced
Time to complete activity: 1.0 hour
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Use molecular and resistance testing results to guide evidence-based ROS1-directed treatment planning across lines of therapy in non-small cell lung cancer
• Apply clinical trial data, central nervous system activity, and resistance mutation profiles for selection and sequencing of ROS1-targeted therapies
• Construct mechanism-based toxicity monitoring and management plans for ROS1-targeted therapies that support adherence and optimize long-term outcomes

Accreditation

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education™ is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education. This activity is approved for 1.0 contact hour (0.10 CEU) under the ACPE universal activity number 0290-0000-26-181-H01-P. The activity is available for CE credit through June 30, 2027.

Instructions for Completing the Activity and Receiving CPE Credit

To receive CPE credit, participants must complete the pretest, view the activity in its entirety, complete the posttest, and complete the online activity evaluation. After successful completion of the online activity evaluation, you can submit your credit to CPE Monitor. You may view your credit within 48 hours at www.mycpemonitor.net. All participants must request credit before the activity expiration date. CE credit will not be issued after this date.

Faculty

The following contributors have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose:

Darren Luon, PharmD, BCOP

Leila Rostamnjad, PharmD, BCOP

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education™ Planning Staff—Jim Palatine, RPh, MBA; Rose Buszka, PharmD, BCPS, CHCP; Kylie Ferrentino; Susan Pordon; Brianna Winters; and Chloe Taccetta.

Any relevant financial relationships listed for these individuals have been mitigated.

At least one anonymous peer reviewer was used as part of content validation and conflict resolution. The peer reviewer has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Educational Disclaimer

Continuing professional education activities are offered solely for educational purposes and do not constitute any form of professional advice or referral. Discussions concerning drugs, dosages, and procedures may reflect the clinical experience of the author(s) or be derived from the professional literature or other sources and may suggest uses that are investigational in nature and not approved by the labeling or indications. Participants are encouraged to refer to primary references or full prescribing information resources.

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