Gefitinib: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Price, Composition, Precautions & More

October 31, 2018

What Is Gefitinib?

Gefitinib is a cancer chemotherapy agent used in treating non-small lung cancer after other cancer chemotherapy treatments have not been successful.

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Uses Of Gefitinib

Gefitinib is used to treat non-small lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

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How Does Gefitinib Work?

An enzyme called epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (EGFR-TK) is overexpressed in people with non-small lung cancer and certain other types of cancers like head and neck cancer.
Gefitinib acts by inhibiting this EGFR-TK enzyme, thus stopping further growth of cancer cells.

Gefitinib Price in India

Specifics	Gefitinib Price
Bottle of 30 tablets of Krypton Gefitinib 250mg	Rs. 6500

How to Take Gefitinib?

Gefitinib comes in tablet form to be taken by mouth.
It can be taken with or without food once in a day.
Take Gefitinib at around the same time every day for maximum benefits.

Common Dosage Of Gefitinib

The usual adult dosage of Gefitinib is 250mg once in a day.
This dosage may be increased up to 500mg with close monitoring of the patient.
Dosage adjustments are required in people with liver and kidney diseases.

When to Avoid & Gefitinib Precautions To Take?

Gefitinib is contraindicated in patients suffering from Intestinal Pneumonitis and/or Lung fibrosis.
Gefitinib should be avoided in people have a severe renal impairment or liver diseases.
Gefitinib should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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Side Effects Of Gefitinib

Common side effects of Gefitinib include –

Acne
Dry skin
Diarrhoea
Nausea
Skin rashes
Vomiting

Other less common side effects include –

Loss of appetite
Difficulty breathing
Eye infection
Mouth ulcers
Weight loss
Weakness

What Are The Effects of Gefitinib on Organs?

Gefitinib may cause or worsen liver and kidney diseases.
Gefitinib may damage the stomach and intestinal walls.

Are There Any Reported Allergic Reactions?

An allergic reaction to Gefitinib is very rare.
Symptoms of an allergy include severe rashes, itching, dizziness and difficulty in breathing.
Seek immediate medical attention in case of allergic reaction.

Drug Interactions to be careful about?

Before taking Gefitinib to inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medications

Blood thinners like warfarin
Proton pump inhibitors like ranitidine, cimetidine, omeprazole etc.
NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, naproxen etc
Corticosteroids like prednisolone

Shows Effects/Results In

The time required for the onset of action and duration of effects of Gefitinib is not clinically established.

Storage Requirements for Gefitinib

Store at room temperature (20-25°C) away from light and moisture.
Keep away from the reach of children and pets

Pro Tips When Taking Gefitinib

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Gefitinib
Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Take the medicine at about the same time every day

FAQs

Is Gefitinib addictive?

No, Gefitinib is not addictive.

Can I have Gefitinib with alcohol?

No, it is not recommended to have Gefitinib with alcohol.

Any particular food item to be avoided?

No.

Can I have Gefitinib when pregnant?

No, it is not recommended to have Gefitinib when pregnant.

Can I have Gefitinib when feeding a baby?

No, it is not recommended to have Gefitinib when feeding a baby.

Can I drive after taking Gefitinib?

Yes, it is okay to drive after taking Gefitinib.

What happens if I overdose on Gefitinib?

Overdosage may lead to difficulty in breathing and fainting. Seek immediate medical attention.

What happens if I eat expired Gefitinib?

No major side effect is seen upon consumption of a single dose of expired Gefitinib however if you notice any severe side effects, immediately inform your doctor.

What happens if I miss a dose of Gefitinib?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but if less than 12 hours are remaining before your next dose, then skip the missed dose.

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