Erlotinib

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor	Tarceva®	Cancer-related

Erlotinib - What is it for

Erlotinib is a targeted medicine that is used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations. It is also used in combination with gemcitabine for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Erlotinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Erlotinib cause?

Nausea and vomiting can sometimes occur when you first start taking Erlotinib
Acne-like rash or itchy dry skin may develop initially but will decrease in severity after 4 or more weeks of treatment
Diarrhea is usually transient and can be treated with antidiarrheal medicines
Dryness of the eyes may occur
Feeling weak or tired
Loss of appetite

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Skin rash that is bothersome
Changes in vision or eye irritation
Breathlessness or fever
Severe abdominal pain

Before taking Erlotinib, what precautions must I follow?

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medical conditions you have as well as other medicines or supplements you are taking.
Avoid smoking while taking Erlotinib as this may interfere with your treatment.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Erlotinib?

Avoid grapefruit and its juice while on Erlotinib.

Erlotinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Erlotinib be used?

It is a tablet taken by mouth at the same time every day. Take with a full glass of water.
It should be taken on an empty stomach i.e. 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Erlotinib, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing. Do not double the dose.