Gefitinib 250mg

Gefitinib 250mg Uses

Gefitinib 250mg is prescribed to:

• Treat advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations.
• Slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Improve the quality of life in patients with NSCLC by reducing tumor-related symptoms.

How Does Gefitinib 250mg Work

Gefitinib blocks the activity of EGFR, a protein that stimulates cancer cell growth when mutated. By inhibiting EGFR’s tyrosine kinase activity, Gefitinib disrupts the signaling pathways responsible for cancer cell proliferation and survival, effectively slowing the progression of the disease.

How to Use Gefitinib 250mg

• Take Gefitinib 250mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food.
• If you have difficulty swallowing, dissolve the tablet in half a glass of water, stir, and drink immediately.
• Avoid taking antacids or acid-reducing medications close to Gefitinib, as they may affect its absorption.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Skin rash or dryness
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe lung inflammation (interstitial lung disease) with symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cough, or fever.
• Liver toxicity, with symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
• Severe skin reactions or peeling.
• Persistent diarrhea or dehydration.

Drug Interactions

Gefitinib 250mg may interact with:

• Medications that alter stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, reducing Gefitinib’s effectiveness.
• Anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• CYP3A4 inducers, such as phenytoin or rifampin, which may lower Gefitinib levels in the blood.

Food Interactions

• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they may increase Gefitinib levels and side effects.
• Maintain a balanced diet to support your overall health during cancer treatment.

Gefitinib 250mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Gefitinib or any of its components.
• Pregnant women, as Gefitinib may harm the unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding women, as the medication may pass into breast milk.

Precautions and Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of lung disease, liver impairment, or gastrointestinal issues.
• Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping Gefitinib.
• Regular blood tests may be required to monitor liver function and blood counts.
• Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe breathing difficulties, skin reactions, or signs of liver toxicity.

Storage

• Store Gefitinib 250mg at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local guidelines.

Safety Information

• Use Gefitinib 250mg only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
• Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Report any unusual symptoms or side effects, such as severe lung problems or skin reactions, to your doctor immediately