Afadel 20 Tablet
Manufacturer
Adley Formulations
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (20mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afadel 20 Tablet is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer in adult patients with certain mutations of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Afadel 20 Tablet should be taken on an empty stomach, but try to have it at the same time every day to get the most benefits. Your doctor will decide what dose is necessary and how often you need to take it. This will depend on what you are being treated for and may change from time to time. You should take it exactly as your doctor has advised. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Afadel 20 Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afadel 20 Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afadel 20 Tablet is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Afadel 20 Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
How it works
Afadel 20 Tablet is an anti-cancer medication. It works by binding and inhibiting the enzyme receptors (EGFR, HER2, and HER4) that are responsible for the growth of cancer cells. Hence, resulting in the downregulation of signaling pathways. This is how it stops or slows the spread of cancer.
Quick Tips
You have been prescribed Afadel 20 Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afadel 20 Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afadel 20 Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afadel 20 Tablet can make your skin sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you have to be in sunlight. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for a month after you stop taking it. Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure such as severe headache, confusion, problems with your eyesight, nausea or vomiting. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Related Medicines
Frequently asked questions
Is Afadel 20 Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afadel 20 Tablet is a kinase inhibitor, not immunotherapy or chemotherapy. It works by blocking proteins involved in cancer cell growth and spread.
How long does it take for Afadel 20 Tablet to work?
Peak concentrations of Afadel 20 Tablet are reached 2-5 hours after administration. However, a noticeable change in cancer progression may take weeks or months. Symptom improvement is possible but effectiveness needs confirmation through specific tests.
How should I take Afadel 20 Tablet?
Afadel 20 Tablet is taken orally, without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or break it. Take it once daily at approximately the same time each day for easier memory management.
Does Afadel 20 Tablet affect fertility?
Afadel 20 Tablet may reduce fertility in both men and women. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about fertility, who may suggest sperm or egg preservation before starting treatment.
Can Afadel 20 Tablet be given alongside chemotherapy?
There are no studies supporting the use of Afadel 20 Tablet with other chemotherapies. It is specifically used for certain types of lung cancer when prior chemotherapy has been unsuccessful.
Can Afadel 20 Tablet cure lung cancer?
Afadel 20 Tablet cannot cure lung cancer but may prolong survival and reduce tumor size.
What should I avoid while taking Afadel 20 Tablet?
Avoid prolonged sun exposure, as Afadel 20 Tablet can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. This may lead to sunburn, rash, or acne breakouts.
What should I do if I experience diarrhea from Afadel 20 Tablet?
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Afadel 20 Tablet. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and kidney problems, which may be life-threatening. In case of severe diarrhea, start consuming fluids promptly and contact your doctor immediately. The doctor will prescribe an appropriate antidiarrheal medication (e.g., loperamide) and might adjust the dosage or discontinue therapy if necessary.
