Gefitinib

It inhabits the intracellular phosphorylation of numerous tyrosine kinases associated with transmembrane cell surface receptors, including the tyrosine kinases associated with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR-TK), EGFR is expressed on the cell surface of many normal cells and cancer cells.

Indications

It is indicated as monotherapy for the continued treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer after failure of both platinum-based and docetaxel chemotherapies.

Dosage

One 250mg tablet with or without food. For patients who have difficulty swallowing solids: Tablets can also be dispersed in half a glass of driniking water.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Hepatotoxicity, Patients with Hepatic Impairment, Pregnancy, Nursing Mother, Pediatrics Use,Severe renal impairment.

Side Effects

Diarrhea, rash, acne, dry skin, nausea, and vomiting. The 500mg dose showed a higher rate for most of these adverse events.