Tarceva

erlotinib

Brand(s):

• Erlonat

Manufacturer:

• Natco Pharma Limited

Disease(s):

• Lung Cancer / Pancreatic Cancer

Erlotinib Tablet

What is Erlotinib?

Erlotinib is a medication used in cancer treatment. It works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells within the body. Specifically, it's prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer that has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body). Doctors typically use erlotinib after other cancer treatments haven't been successful.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting erlotinib, it's crucial to inform your doctor about your medical history. You shouldn't take erlotinib if you're allergic to it. Also, let your doctor know if you have any of the following:

• Lung or breathing problems (excluding lung cancer)

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• A history of stomach bleeding

• Eye problems

• Dehydration

• A smoking habit

• Current use of warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)

Pregnant women should absolutely avoid erlotinib as it poses risks to the unborn child. Reliable birth control is necessary during treatment and for at least two weeks afterward. It's currently unknown if erlotinib is present in breast milk or its potential effects on nursing infants; therefore, breastfeeding should be avoided during erlotinib use.

How to Take Erlotinib

Always follow your doctor's prescription instructions precisely. Dosage adjustments might be necessary to optimize treatment. Never alter the prescribed dose or duration without consulting your doctor. Take erlotinib on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Regular medical tests will likely be required to monitor for any adverse effects. Treatment might be delayed depending on the test results.

Potential Drug Interactions

Erlotinib can interact with many other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. This medication guide doesn't list every possible interaction. It's essential to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications you're currently taking, and any changes made during your erlotinib treatment. Always share this information with every healthcare provider involved in your care.

Precautions While Taking Erlotinib

Avoid taking antacids in the hours surrounding erlotinib administration. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using other stomach medications like cimetidine (Tagamet) or ranitidine (Zantac). Minimize sun exposure and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) along with protective clothing. Avoid skincare products that could cause dryness or irritation (such as acne medications, harsh soaps, or alcohol-based products). Smoking should be avoided as it reduces erlotinib's effectiveness. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can negatively interact with erlotinib; avoid their consumption. Similarly, avoid St. John's wort supplements. Be aware that erlotinib can be present in bodily fluids (urine, feces, vomit). Those assisting with personal care should wear gloves when handling bodily fluids, disposing of waste, or changing linens, washing hands before and after.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking erlotinib and contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Sudden chest pain or discomfort, wheezing, dry cough, shortness of breath

• Severe stomach pain, fever, chills, coughing up blood

• Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Eye pain or irritation, vision problems

• Heart attack symptoms—chest pain or pressure, pain radiating to the jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating

• Stroke symptoms—sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side), sudden severe headache, slurred speech, vision or balance problems

• Kidney or liver problems—reduced urination, swelling, rapid weight gain (especially in the face and midsection), confusion, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

• Severe skin reaction—fever, sore throat, facial or tongue swelling, burning eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple rash spreading (especially in the face or upper body), causing blistering and peeling

Common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite

• Dry eyes

• Cough, trouble breathing

• Rash

• Weakness, fatigue

Storage

Store erlotinib at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.