Gefitinib is a drug to treat type of lung cancer non-small cell lung cancer which has spread to other parts of the body.
Gefitinib is an anticancer drug belonging to the class of anticancer drugs belonging to the protein kinase inhibitor class.protein kinase inhibitor). This drug works by inhibiting the function of the tyrosine kinase enzyme, so that the growth and spread of cancer cells can be stopped. This medicine should only be used with a doctor's prescription.
gefitinib trademark:Gefitero, Gefiza, Genessa, Gefinib, Iressa, Iretinib
What is Gefitinib
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Protein kinase inhibitor class of anticancer drugs |
| Benefit | Treating types of lung cancer non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Gefitinib for pregnant and lactating women | Category N:Not categorized. It is not known whether Gefitinib is absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablet |
Warning Before Consuming Gefitinib
The following are some things you need to pay attention to before taking gefitinib:
- Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. Gefitinib should not be used by patients who are allergic to this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while on treatment with gefitinib.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had liver disease or hepatitis B, kidney disease, impaired vision, stomach ulcers, pulmonary fibrosis, other cancers, diverticulitis, or intestinal obstruction.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain supplements, herbal products, or medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin.
- Tell your doctor if you plan to have certain medical procedures, such as surgery or dental surgery, while taking gefitinib.
- Tell your doctor right away if you have an overdose, drug allergic reaction, or a more serious side effect after taking gefitinib.
Dosage and Use of Gefitinib
The doctor will determine the dose and duration of treatment with gefitinib according to the patient's condition. In general, the dose of gefitinib to treat lung cancer is 250 mg, once a day.
How to Take Gefitinib Correctly
Make sure you read the instructions on the medicine package and follow your doctor's advice when taking gefitinib. Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Take gefitinib regularly at the same time every day. Gefitinib can be taken before or after meals. Swallow the medicine with the help of water. You can also dissolve gefitinib tablets in plain water. The trick, stir for 15 minutes until the tablet dissolves, then drink.
If you forget to take gefitinib, take it immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
If you are taking proton pump inhibitors or antacids, take at least 6–12 hours before taking gefitinib.
Carry out regular check-ups as recommended by your doctor while undergoing treatment with gefitinib. Do not stop taking gefinitib without consulting your doctor first.
While on treatment with gefitinib, you may be asked to have your blood pressure checked, complete blood tests, or blood clotting factor indicators, such as INR.
Store gefitinib in a dry, closed place, and away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Gefitinib Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that may occur if gefitinib is taken at the same time as other drugs:
- Decreased effectiveness of gefitinib when used with rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, or barbiturates
- Increased levels of gefitinib and risk of side effects when used with ketoconazole, clarithromycin, or other antiviral drugs
- Increased risk of bleeding if used with warfarin
- Increased levels of metoprolol
- Increased risk of tearing in the digestive tract used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids
- Decreased levels and effectiveness of gefinitib when used with proton pump inhibitors or antacids
- Enhanced neurophilic count (neutropenia) effect of vinorelbine
Gefitinib Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that may occur after using gefitinib are:
- Diarrhea
- Pimple
- Dry skin
- Ulcer
- Loss of appetite
- Unusual fatigue or severe weakness
- Hair loss
- Nausea or vomiting
Check with your doctor if the side effects above do not subside or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if there is an allergic reaction to the drug which can be characterized by an itchy rash on the skin, swelling of the eyelids or lips, or difficulty breathing.
In addition, you should also see a doctor immediately if you experience more serious side effects, such as:
- Hard to breathe
- Cough
- Fever
- Bloody stools or diarrhea that occurs constantly
- Eyes sensitive to light, blurred vision, or red eyes
- Impaired liver function which can be characterized by jaundice, abdominal pain, bloody stools, or dark urine
- Swelling in the legs and feet
