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Gefitinib

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

Gefitinib - What is it for

Gefitinib is a targeted medicine used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. It can be used as a single agent or in combination with other cytotoxic medicines.

Gefitinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Gefitinib cause?

  • Nausea can sometimes occur when you first start taking Gefitinib
    If nausea occurs, take your tablets right after a meal.
  • Acne-like rash may develop
    This may improve over time even if the same dose is continued.
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Dryness of eyes
  • Tiredness and lack of energy may occur

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Allergic reactions – rashes, swelling, breathing difficulty
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Unusual or persistent respiratory difficulty or wheezing, chest pain
  • Any change in vision, eye pain or signs of eye infection
  • Signs of infection – fever of 38 ˚C or higher, sores in the mouth and throat
  • Unusual weakness or joint pain
  • Yellowing of the skins or eyes

Before taking Gefitinib, what precautions must I follow?

  • ​Inform your doctor or pharmacist regarding any other medicines or supplements you are taking.
  • Use effective birth control during treatment on Gefitinib and for 2 weeks after stopping treatment.

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

Avoid taking:

  • Grapefruit and its juice when you are on Gefitinib.
  • Antacids 2 hours before or after taking Gefitinib.

Gefitinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Gefitinib be used?

It is a tablet, to be taken by mouth. It is taken once daily and can be taken with or without food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

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

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.

Gefitinib - Handling and Storage

How should I handle Gefitinib safely?

Do not break or crush the tablet.

How should I store Gefitinib?

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Gefitinib safely?

Gefitinib - Additional Information

Updated on Friday, February 22, 2019

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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