Gefitinib Tablet is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. It is used in patients in which it has spread to other parts of the body, who have abnormal epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genes, and who have not had previous treatment for cancer.
Gefitinib Tablet should be taken in a dose as recommended by the doctor. You should continue to take it as long as your doctor advises for it. The duration of treatment varies according to your need and response to treatment. Your doctor may advice for regular monitoring of liver function while your taking this medicine.
Common side effects include diarrhea, dry skin, loss of appetite, and nausea. Drink plenty of fluids to reduce the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor if any of the side effects bother you or get worse. In case you develop ulceration in mouth, changes in your vision, or breathing difficulties than it is better to inform the doctor.
Women who are undergoing treatment should use effective contraception method. It is important to avoid pregnancy during the treatment and for a month after completing the course of medicine. Let your doctor also know about all the other medications you are taking.
Uses of Gefitinib Tablet
- Non-small cell lung cancer
Benefits of Gefitinib Tablet
In Non-small cell lung cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer is one of the major kinds of lung cancer and it affects both smokers as well as non-smokers. Gefitinib Tablet helps treat non-small cell lung cancer and may be given alone or in combination with other medicines. It is a potent and very toxic medicine and you should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. You should avoid drinking alcohol while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Side effects of Gefitinib Tablet
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you're worried about them
Common side effects of Gefitinib
- Diarrhea
- Dry skin
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Eating disorder
- Allergic reaction
How to use Gefitinib Tablet
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Gefitinib Tablet may be taken with or without food.
How Gefitinib Tablet works
Gefitinib Tablet is an anti-cancer medication. It works by blocking the action of the abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps to stop or slow the spread of cancer cells.
