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Erlotinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Tarceva® Cancer-related

Erlotinib - What is it for

Erlotinib is a targeted medicine that is used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations. It is also used in combination with gemcitabine for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Erlotinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Erlotinib cause?

  • Nausea and vomiting can sometimes occur when you first start taking Erlotinib
  • Loss of appetite
  • Acne-like rash or itchy dry skin may develop initially but will decrease in severity after 4 or more weeks of treatment
  • Diarrhea is usually transient and can be treated with antidiarrheal medicines
  • Dryness of the eyes may occur
  • Feeling weak or tired

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Skin rash that is bothersome
  • Changes in vision or eye irritation
  • Breathlessness or fever
  • Severe abdominal pain

Before taking Erlotinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medical conditions you have as well as other medicines or supplements you are taking.
  • Avoid smoking while taking Erlotinib as this may interfere with your treatment.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Erlotinib ?

Avoid grapefruit or its juice while on Erlotinib.

Erlotinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Erlotinib be used?

It is a tablet to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water at the same time every day.
It should be taken on an empty stomach i.e. 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Erlotinib, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time. Do not double dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.

Erlotinib - Handling

How should I handle Erlotinib safely?

Do not break or crush the tablet.

Erlotinib - Storage

How should I store Erlotinib ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Erlotinib safely?

Erlotinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 8/31/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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