GEFITINIB

Gefitinib received U.S. FDA approval on 3 May 2003 for the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Gefitinib has been developed to treat non-small cell lung cancer in adults.

The medicine will be prescribed to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. Gefitinib is available as a tablet to be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. The usual recommended dosage is 250 mg tablet once daily. Avoid crushing, opening, or dissolving the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water. Take the Gefitinib tablet at the same time every day.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Common: diarrhea nausea vomiting loss of appetite weakness red or sore mouth increased liver enzymes itchy or cracked skin dry mouth red or itchy eyes nail problems hair loss fever blood in the urine and a burning sensation while urinating

Inform your doctor immediately if you experience allergies to Gefitinib and its ingredients. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver disease, vision problems, lung problems, or taking any blood thinner like warfarin. Your healthcare provider will check regular blood tests to prevent complications. Avoid consuming alcohol as it may cause dizziness.

Consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or plan to have a baby. Gefitinib tablets are unsafe to use during pregnancy as it causes harm to an unborn fetus. Your health care practitioner will conduct a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Gefitinib Tablet. Discuss with your doctor effective birth control methods and utilize them for at least two weeks following the last dose. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on the treatment as it is unknown if Gefitinib passes into the breast milk.

Gefitinib is not indicated for children and adolescents below 18 years of age. Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended during treatment. In cases of severe diarrhoea, avoid high-fibre foods and ensure adequate fluid intake. Patients with lactose intolerance should inform their doctor prior to commencing this therapy. Antacids must not be taken within two hours before or one hour after Gefitinib administration. Patients experiencing fatigue or weakness should refrain from driving and operating heavy machinery during treatment.

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