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.
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.
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.
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.
©2011
Copyright © National Cancer Centre Singapore
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
Version 1
Last Review:
June 2017
Produced by Department of Pharmacy
National Cancer Centre Singapore