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Afatinib

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

Afatinib - What is it for

​Afatinib is a targeted medicine used in the treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with EGFR mutation.

Afatinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Afatinib cause?

  • Diarrhea (may occur initially)
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mouth sores
  • Acne, rash, dry skin, itching, skin redness
    Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight as it may worsen the rash or acne, or cause sunburn.​ Use sunscreen and covered clothing if you need to be un​​​der the sun.
  • Nail infection

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Diarrhea more than 4 times a day and not controlled by anti-diarrheal medicines
  • Severe skin peeling or blistering
  • Yellowing of the eyes of skin, tea-colored urine, severe right-sided stomach ache or unusual bruising
  • Rapid or abnormal heartbeat, unusual tiredness, swelling of the hands and feet, or sudden weight gain
  • Severe eye discomfort, sensitivity to light, blurred vision
  • Fever, severe cough and shortness of breath

Before taking Afatinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
    • Have any other medical conditions
    • Are taking any long-term medicines or supplements
    • Have any history of eye problems or are using contact lenses
  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after stopping treatment. Inform your doctor if you or your partner suspect or plan to get pregnant.

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

Afatinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Afatinib be used?

​It should be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 3 hours after food. Take it around the same time each day.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Afatinib, you can take it as soon as you remember if there is at least 8 hours before the next dose. However, if there is less than 8 hours before the next dose, skip the dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not double dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

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

Afatinib - Handling

How should I handle Afatinib safely?

​Do not break or crush the tablet.

Afatinib - Storage

How should I store Afatinib ?

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

How should I dispose of Afatinib safely?

Afatinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 3/19/2018 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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