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Gefitinib Tablet

Gefitinib is a drug used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. It can be used as a single agent or in combination with other cytotoxic drugs. It can sometimes be used to treat other kinds of cancer too.

What is this medication used for

Dosage and How to Use

It is a tablet that you take by mouth. It is taken once daily and can be taken with or without food. It should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Do not take antacids 2 hours before or after taking Gefitinib.

For patients who are unable to swallow, dissolve the tablet in water before administration.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose of Gefitinib, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing. Do not double the dose.

Side Effects, Precautions, Contraindication

What are the common side effects of Gefitinib?

Nausea can sometimes occur when you first start taking Gefitinib.

If nausea occurs, take your tablets right after a meal

Loss of appetite

Diarrhea

Dryness of eyes

Tiredness and lack of energy may occur

Inform your doctor of any of the following occurs:

Allergic reactions – rashes, swelling, breathing difficulty

Severe diarrhea

Unusual or persistent respiratory difficulty or wheezing, chest pain

Any change in vision, eye pain or signs of eye infection

Signs of infection – fever of 38°C or higher, sores in the mouth and throat

Unusual weakness or joint pain

Handling and Storage

Store Gefitinib tablets out of the reach of children, at room temperature, away from heat, light and moisture.

Additional Information

Other name: Iressa^®

If you have any questions, please call your pharmacist at the National Cancer Centre. The side effects listed above are those that occur frequently. Other side effects may occur. Please contact your doctor to report.

Disclaimer: The National Cancer Centre Singapore does not endorse or promote the use of any product mentioned in this booklet. The information is presented in a summary to provide an understanding and for knowledge only, and may not contain information about all aspects of care. It does not recommend self-management of health problems or replace consultation with your doctor. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you have read in this booklet.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher.

Document No. PHM-MED-PEM-094/0916