Uses / Indications:
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – advanced or metastatic stages
Cancers with EGFR mutations
Lung cancers that come back or can't be operated on
Sometimes used off-label for other malignancies that express EGFR, but only with the help of an oncologist
GEFTICIP helps keep cancer cells from growing and makes life better for people who have it.
Pregnancy interaction:
Category: Not safe for pregnant women.
Animal studies and the way gefitinib works suggest that it could be bad for a developing fetus.
Women who could get pregnant must take effective birth control during therapy and for at least two weeks following the final dosage.
Men who use Gefitinib should also use birth control to keep their partners from getting pregnant.
Breastfeeding:
Not recommended. Gefitinib could get into breast milk and hurt the baby.
If you're getting therapy, stop nursing for at least two weeks after you stop.
If you get pregnant while getting treatment, see your doctor right away.
Expert advice:
An oncologist should closely watch you take this drug.
Don't change your doses or take medicine on your own without talking to a doctor.
Don't eat grapefruit, take antacids, or smoke because these can change how much medicine you have in your body.
To take care of dry or itchy skin, use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer.
Make sure to drink enough water and keep your mouth clean.
During treatment, keep an eye on your liver, kidneys, and blood count on a regular basis.
Before starting therapy, tell your doctor about any past lung or liver problems you may have had.
If you forget to take a dose and it's less than 12 hours until your next one, don't take it. Don't do it twice.
Side Effects:
Diarrhea
Dry skin or a rash
Feeling sick, throwing up
Not wanting to eat
Stomatitis, or mouth sores
Feeling weak or tired
Side Effects That Are Serious
Breathing problems, coughing, or a fever (may be a sign of interstitial lung disease)
Eye discomfort and conjunctivitis
Increase in liver enzymes (hepatotoxicity)
Severe reactions on the skin or blisters
Diarrhea that makes you dehydrated
If you have diarrhea that won't go away, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or trouble breathing, call your doctor right away.
How to use:
Take one 250 mg pill every day at the same time, with or without meals.
Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Just swallow it whole with water.
Keep taking it for as long as your oncologist tells you to.
If you throw up after taking the dose, don't take it again. Just take the following one on your schedule.
Stay away from grapefruit or grapefruit juice because they can raise the levels of Gefitinib.
Always stick to the oncologist's schedule for taking your medicine. Don't stop therapy without talking to your doctor first.
How it works:
GEFTICIP contains gefitinib, which is a selective inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase.
In some malignancies, EGFR is too active, which causes cells to proliferate and divide too quickly.
By blocking EGFR signaling, gefitinib does the following:
Stopping tumor cells from growing
Causing programmed cell death (apoptosis)
Slowing or halting the growth of cancer
This tailored strategy is especially helpful for people with lung cancer that has an EGFR mutation.
Faq for medicine:
1. What is the purpose of the GEFTICIP 250 mg Tablet?
It is used to treat advanced, metastatic, or recurring non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially in individuals with EGFR mutations.
2. What is the best way for me to take GEFTICIP?
Take one tablet every day at the same time, with or without meals. Take with water.
3. Can I take it while I'm pregnant?
No. GEFTICIP is not safe to use when pregnant and can hurt the baby. Use dependable birth control during and after therapy.
4. What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not take twice as much.
5. What should I do to stay safe while taking GEFTICIP?
Don't smoke, eat grapefruit, or use antacids. Check your liver and lungs on a frequent basis.
6. Is it possible for GEFTICIP to hurt your skin?
Yes. Skin rashes and dryness are common side effects. Use gentle skin care and tell your doctor right away if you get a bad rash.
7. Is it safe to drive when taking GEFTICIP?
Yes, unless you feel weak or dizzy. Don't drive if the side effects make you less aware.
8. Is it safe for women who are nursing?
No. You should not breastfeed while you are getting therapy and for two weeks after you finish.
9. How long do I need to take GEFTICIP 250 mg?
Keep going as long as your oncologist tells you to. How long treatment lasts depends on how well the cancer responds and how well the patient can handle it.
10. What should I eat?
Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and stay away from citrus and alcohol. Eat well to help your body heal.
Medicine interaction:
GEFTICIP could have an effect on a number of different drugs:
Big Interactions
CYP3A4 inducers including phenytoin, rifampicin, and carbamazepine make Gefitinib less effective.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (such ketoconazole and clarithromycin) raise the levels of Gefitinib, which increases the risk of side effects.
H2 blockers (like omeprazole and ranitidine) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Make it less effective and less absorbent.
Warfarin: Raises the risk of bleeding; INR levels need to be checked often.
Herbal drugs, including St. John's Wort, make them less effective.
Tell your doctor about all the herbs, vitamins, and drugs you take.
