Lapatinib Oral tablet Health Article

Generic name(s):

Lapatinib Oral tablet

Brand name(s):

Tykerb

What is this medicine?

LAPATINIB (la PA ti nib) is a chemotherapy drug. It targets specific enzymes within cancer cells and stops the cancer cells from growing. This medicine is used to treat some advanced breast cancers. It is often used along with other cancer treatments.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart disease
• heart rhythm problems (irregular heartbeat)
• high blood pressure
• history of low levels of potassium or magnesium
• liver disease
• an unusual reaction to lapatinib, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or after a meal. Do not take with food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine is not approved for use in children.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• grapefruit or grapefruit juice

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• antiviral medicines for HIV or AIDS
• cisapride
• clarithromycin
• cyclosporine
• daunorubicin
• dexamethasone
• diltiazem
• doxorubicin
• erythromycin
• medicines for depression, anxiety or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for fungal infections itraconazole, ketoconazole
• medicines for irregular heart beat
• medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin
• rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine
• St. John's Wort or other herbal supplements
• stomach acid blockers like cimetidine, famotidine, ranitidine, or omeprazole
• telithromycin
• verapamil

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for checks on your progress. You will need to have regular blood tests while on this medicine.

Report any new symptoms promptly. Let your doctor know if you have severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, or vomiting, as these side effects may cause dehydration. If you have shortness of breath, contact your doctor. Possible serious side effects include heart or lung problems.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine.