gefitinib Health Article

Generic name(s):

gefitinib

Brand name(s):

Iressa

What is the most important information I should know about gefitinib?

Gefitinib should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of gefitinib including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); lung problems; liver problems; eye problems; severe nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with gefitinib.

What is gefitinib?

Gefitinib is a cancer chemotherapy medication. Gefitinib interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Gefitinib is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

Gefitinib may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking gefitinib?

Do not use gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you have

• liver disease; or

• lung or breathing problems (other than lung cancer).

You may not be able to take gefitinib, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Gefitinib is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Birth control should be used during treatment with gefitinib. It is not known whether gefitinib passes into breast milk. Do not take gefitinib without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use gefitinib?

Gefitinib should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Take each dose of gefitinib with a full glass of water.

Gefitinib can be taken with or without food.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with gefitinib depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

It is important to take gefitinib regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with gefitinib to monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store gefitinib as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing gefitinib at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of gefitinib.

What happens if I overdose?

If an overdose of gefitinib is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Symptoms of a gefitinib overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the medication, although often more severe.

What should I avoid while using gefitinib?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity during treatment with gefitinib unless otherwise directed by your doctor.