Erlotinib

Information about Erlotinib

Erlotinib Uses

Erlotinib is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.

How Erlotinib works

Erlotinib is an anti-cancer medication. Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) are expressed on the lung cancer cell surfaces that modulate their growth. This medicine works by binding the chemical messenger, EGFR, hence, inhibits the cancer signaling pathways mediated by EGFR. This is how it restricts further growth of the cancer cells.

Common side effects of Erlotinib

Acne, Conjunctivitis, Dry skin, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Hair follicle inflammation, Hair loss, Nosebleeds, Skin fissures, Corneal inflammation, Paronychia, Renal insufficiency
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Anuj Saini
MMST, MBBS
Reviewed By
Dr. Lalit Kanodia
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
14 Jun 2022 | 06:53 PM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Erlotinib

ErlonatNatco Pharma Ltd
₹9353 to ₹99902 variant(s)
TarcevaRoche Products India Pvt Ltd
₹35450 to ₹403012 variant(s)
ZycevaZydus Cadila
₹3145 to ₹36603 variant(s)
TyrokininDr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
₹5580 to ₹189902 variant(s)
ErlevaGlenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹3525 to ₹57502 variant(s)
ErloteroHetero Drugs Ltd
₹4899 to ₹99002 variant(s)
ErlotibIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹2975 to ₹59202 variant(s)
ErlokemAlkem Laboratories Ltd
₹8100 to ₹109082 variant(s)
LortinibRPG Life Sciences Ltd
₹7900 to ₹111592 variant(s)
ErlodayAxiommax Oncology Pvt Ltd
₹2566 to ₹39242 variant(s)

Expert advice for Erlotinib

  • Erlotinib helps treat non-small cell lung cancer that is locally advanced, or has spread to other areas of the body.
  • It should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after the meal.
  • Diarrhea may occur as a side effect. Drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
  • Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for a month after you stop taking it.
  • It makes your skin sensitive towards sunlight. Apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing while going out.
  • It is advisable to avoid smoking while taking this medicine, as it makes the drug ineffective and requires dose adjustment.
  • Do not take it with medication lowering the stomach acid (such as antacids, H2 blockers including ranitidine), as it may affect the working of medicine.
  • Inform your doctor if you develop ulceration in your mouth, changes in your vision or if you experience a worsening cough, shortness of breath, or breathing difficulties while taking this medicine.
  • Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to monitor your liver function while you are having treatment with this medicine.
  • Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions for Erlotinib

Erlotinib

Q. How should Erlotinib be taken?

Erlotinib is a pill to be taken by mouth, once a day without food as prescribed by your doctor. It is important that you take Erlotinib empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 house after meals. It is advisable to take it the same time each day so that you remember when to take it.

Q. Is Erlotinib a chemotherapy drug?

Erlotinib is not a conventional chemotherapy medicine. Erlotinib belongs to a class of medications called kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This in turn helps to slow or stop the spread of cancer cells.

Q. How long can I take Erlotinib?

You need to take Erlotinib every day, as long as your doctor prescribes it for you. The duration of treatment may vary from person to person.

Q. Does smoking interfere with Erlotinib?

Yes, smoking can interfere with the working of Erlotinib. It can decrease the effectiveness of the medicine to a great extent. Hence, it is advised to stop smoking before you start Erlotinib. Your doctor will need to adjust the dose of Erlotinib, if you keep on smoking or there is a change in the pattern of smoking.

Q. What should I do if I get a rash while taking Erlotinib?

Rash is a common side effect of Erlotinib but you should not stop taking Erlotinib because of this. Consult your doctor who will suggest a treatment for it. Also, avoid sun-exposure, use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing.

Q. When can I plan pregnancy, if I am taking Erlotinib?

Avoid pregnancy while being treated with Erlotinib. If you are a woman of child-bearing age use effective contraception during treatment. Avoid pregnancy for at least 1 month after taking the last tablet.

Q. Does Erlotinib affect eyes?

Erlotinib commonly causes conjunctivitis and dry eyes. If you develop acute or worsening redness and pain in the eye, increased eye-watering, blurred vision and/or sensitivity to light, immediately inform the doctor as you may need urgent treatment.

Q. When should I call my doctor during treatment with Erlotinib?

Inform the doctor if you experience sudden difficulty in breathing associated with cough or fever, severe or ongoing diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Also, consult your doctor if you experience acute or worsening redness and pain in the eye, increased eye-watering, blurred vision and/or sensitivity to light. Let your doctor know in case you are taking a statin (medicine to control cholesterol) along with this medicine and experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps.

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