Erlotinib

• Treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with activating EGFR mutations.
• Treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer in combination with gemcitabine.

When should one not use Erlotinib

• If you have a known hypersensitivity or severe allergic reaction to erlotinib or any of the inactive ingredients in the tablet formulation.

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Rash (acneiform skin rash, which can occur or worsen in sun-exposed areas)
• Diarrhea and nausea
• Decreased appetite and weight loss
• Fatigue and asthenia (weakness)
• Cough and dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Dry skin, itching and hair changes, including abnormal eyelash growth, may occur.
• Eye irritation, conjunctivitis, or keratitis (dry eyes or corneal inflammation)
• Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases and bilirubin)
• Stomatitis (mouth sores) and abdominal pain
• Serious lung inflammation (interstitial lung disease), which may cause sudden cough or difficulty breathing and can be life-threatening.
• Severe diarrhoea, which can cause dehydration and kidney problems.
• Severe liver problems, including liver failure.
• A hole or tear in the stomach or intestine (gastrointestinal perforation).
• Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Other General Warnings

• You experience sudden breathing difficulties, cough, or fever, which require immediate evaluation for lung inflammation.
• You develop severe, persistent diarrhea.
• You notice signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or upper abdominal pain.
• You experience severe eye pain, redness, or vision changes.
• You smoke or stop smoking during treatment, as changes in smoking status can affect erlotinib levels.
• Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
• Report new or worsening shortness of breath, cough, or fever immediately.
• Stay well hydrated and tell your doctor if you have persistent diarrhoea.
• Keep all scheduled medical appointments and blood tests.
• Tell your doctor if you smoke, as smoking may reduce erlotinib's effectiveness.
• Tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking erlotinib before any medical or dental procedure.
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets in a secure medical environment.
• Do not keep expired or unwanted tablets; return unused medicine to your pharmacist for safe disposal.

How Does It Work?

Interactions with other medicines

• Ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and ritonavir may increase erlotinib levels and the risk of side effects.
• Rifampicin, carbamazepine, and St. John’s wort may lower erlotinib levels and make it less effective.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may reduce erlotinib absorption and should generally be avoided if possible. Ask your doctor about suitable alternatives.
• If you are taking antacid medicine, ask your doctor about the appropriate timing.
• Smoking can reduce the amount of erlotinib in your body and may make it less effective. Tell your doctor if you smoke or stop smoking during treatment.
• Tell your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you take, especially blood thinners such as warfarin.

Interactions with food items

Overdose

Missed a Dose