Afatinib 40mg

Indications

Afatinib is intended for the treatment of non-small cell lung carcinoma. It falls within the group of drugs called kinase inhibitors. It acts by preventing the growth of tumor cells. Its active substance inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
Take this drug orally according to the doctor’s prescriptions (generally once a day, one hour before or two hours after eating).

The dose depends on your health state, reaction to the therapy, and other drugs you’re using. Inform your physician about all the drugs you take (such as prescription and over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements).

Use the drug on a regular basis to achieve the best effect. It is recommended to take the drug at the same time of the day.

Avoid changing the dose or taking the drug longer than necessary. Your health state won’t get better, but your risk of severe adverse effects will enhance.

Warnings

Before starting the treatment of afatinib, inform your physician if you have allergy to this drug (or any other substances). The medication may include inactive components that can cause allergy or other complications. Ask your doctor for additional information.

Before taking this drug, inform your physician if you suffer (-ed) from: renal/liver disorders, eye problems (like severe dryness in the eyes, keratitis or waring the contact lenses).

This medication may lead to the vision impairment. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activity, which requires high concentration. During the treatment, you should refuse from alcoholic drinks.

This drug may increase your photosensitivity. Try to spend less time in the sun. Avoid solariums and UV-lamps. Always apply sunscreen and wear protective clothes when outdoors. Inform your doctor at once if you get sun-stroke or notice skin blisters.

Self-care practices during the treatment with Afatinib:

During the treatment, you should drink enough liquid.
Wash your hands frequently and after every drug intake.
You can be exposed to infections. Therefore, you should avoid crowds or people with colds, and report fever or any other symptoms of infection to your doctor as soon as possible.

To help cure/avert mouth sores during the treatment, use a soft toothbrush, and rinse your mouth with 1 tsp of water mixed with salt or baking soda.
Use an electric shaver and a soft toothbrush to prevent hemorrhage.
Don’t participate in contact sports or activities that may lead to the injury.
To prevent sickness, take anti sickness drugs and eat only soft and light meals during the treatment with Afatinib.

Afatinib is the representative of the second generation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors of epidermal growth factor. The drug showed, like other inhibitors, its effectiveness in comparison with platinum-containing chemotherapy as the first line in patients with a mutated effect. Afatinib has moderate efficacy in patients with progression against previously prescribed tyrosine kinase inhibitors as systemic therapy for the third to fourth line. Despite the moderate antitumor effect and short median time to progression, the total life expectancy of patients was more than 18 months.