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

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

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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