Gefitinib

When should one not use Gefitinib

• If you are allergic to gefitinib or any of the ingredients of this medicine
• If you are breastfeeding

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fever
• Eating disorder
• Skin rash
• Itching
• Redness
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Dry or sore mouth
• Conjunctivitis
• Dry eye
• Hair loss
• Nail disorder
• Nosebleed
• Blood in urine (bleeding)

Other General Warnings

• You have problems with your lungs
• You have a history of liver problem
• You are already taking any other medicines like rifampicin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, warfarin, antacids etc.
• You develop eye problems
• You develop stomach and intestinal problems
• You experience diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting while on treatment, contact the doctor
• This medicine is not recommended for use in children & adolescents

How Does It Work?

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way Gefitinib works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
• Especially if you are taking medicines to treat fungal infections, tuberculosis, fits, sleep problems, psychiatric illnesses or are taking antacids

Overdose

• Symptoms of overdose are diarrhoea, skin rash
• If you experience any of the symptoms or think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose