৳ 250/unit
Pack: ৳ 1,500
৳ 250/unit
Pack: ৳ 1,500
At a glance
Gefitinib is a targeted cancer therapy used for EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer.
Indications
- Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations
Pharmacology
Gefitinib reversibly inhibits the kinase activity of wild-type and certain activating mutations of EGFR, preventing autophosphorylation of tyrosine residues associated with the receptor, thereby inhibiting further downstream signalling and blocking EGFR-dependent proliferation. Gefitinib binding affinity for EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 point mutation L858R mutations is higher than its affinity for the wild-type EGFR.
Dosage
Adult Dose:
- 250 mg once daily with or without food
- Continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
- Do not take a missed dose within 12 hours of the next dose
Difficulty Swallowing Solids:
- Immerse tablet in 4-8 ounces of water
- Stir for approximately 15 minutes
- Drink liquid immediately or administer through naso-gastric tube
* Use as directed by the registered physician
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Dry skin
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Rash
- Stomatitis
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects: Interstitial Lung Disease, Hepatotoxicity, Gastrointestinal Perforation, Severe Diarrhea, Keratitis, Bullous and Exfoliative Skin Disorders.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Unsafe during pregnancy. There is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Withhold and investigate if respiratory symptoms worsen.
- Hepatotoxicity: Regular liver function testing. Discontinue in severe hepatic impairment.
- Gastrointestinal Perforation: Permanently discontinue if occurs.
- Severe Diarrhea: Withhold for severe or persistent diarrhea.
- Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.
Overdose effects
Overdose: Overdose may cause myelosuppression, paresthesias and severe rash. Appropriate blood counts and supportive therapy.
Storage conditions
Storage: Store between 20-25°C in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.