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Erlotinib

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

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 - Additional Information

Updated on Friday, August 31, 2018

This article is contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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