Gefitinib 250mg

Gefitinib 250mg — Uses and Benefits

Gefitinib is used in the treatment of certain types of lung cancer.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Used specifically in patients whose tumour tests positive for EGFR mutations
• May be used as first-line treatment or after other treatments have been tried, as decided by your oncologist

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks a protein called EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) found on cancer cells
• This protein normally signals cancer cells to grow and divide
• By blocking it, gefitinib slows or stops the growth and spread of cancer cells

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for lung cancers without EGFR mutations
• Not used for other types of cancer unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Not a cure and not used as a preventive medicine for cancer
• Not meant for self-medication without confirmed diagnosis and doctor's prescription

How to Use Gefitinib 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your oncologist, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, at the same time each day
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; if unable to swallow, it can be dispersed in water as advised by your doctor
• Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better
• Continue regular blood tests and scans as advised to monitor response and side effects

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• Inform your doctor if you miss doses frequently

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of unused medicine safely, do not flush down the drain

Gefitinib 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash or dry, itchy skin
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Mouth sores

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Weakness or tiredness
• Nail changes or nail bed infection
• Eye irritation or dryness
• Mild liver enzyme changes
• Weight loss

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden breathlessness, cough or fever (possible lung inflammation)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (possible liver problem)
• Severe diarrhoea causing dehydration
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Eye pain, redness or vision changes
• Signs of bleeding, such as blood in stool or vomit

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Gefitinib 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

Gefitinib 250mg is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gefitinib or any ingredient in the tablet
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Have not had EGFR mutation testing confirming suitability, unless directed by your oncologist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver disease
• Have any lung disease or history of lung inflammation
• Have eye problems
• Are taking blood thinners like warfarin
• Have stomach or digestive conditions affecting drug absorption

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Drugs that reduce stomach acid, such as antacids, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors
• Strong enzyme-inducing medicines like rifampicin or certain anti-seizure drugs
• Warfarin and other blood-thinning medicines
• Other medicines affecting liver enzymes; always share your full medicine list with your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can gefitinib be taken by everyone with lung cancer?

No, it is effective mainly in patients whose tumour has specific EGFR mutations confirmed by testing.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Duration depends on your response and side effects, and will be decided by your oncologist through regular monitoring.

Can I take other medicines along with gefitinib?

• Only with your doctor's approval, as some medicines can reduce its effectiveness or increase side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.