Afamac 20 Tablet
Manufacturer
Admac Pharma Ltd
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (20mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afamac 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
Afamac 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. Afamac 20 Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afamac 20 Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afamac 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
Afamac 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
Afamac 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 Afamac 20 Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afamac 20 Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afamac 20 Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afamac 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 Afamac 20 Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afamac 20 Tablet is a kinase inhibitor and not an immunotherapy or conventional chemotherapy. It works by blocking specific proteins involved in cancer cell growth and spread.
How long does it take for Afamac 20 Tablet to work?
The peak levels of Afamac 20 Tablet are reached within 2-5 hours after taking it. However, it may take weeks or months to see a noticeable improvement in cancer progression. Visible symptom relief may occur but the effectiveness is determined through specific parameters.
How should I take Afamac 20 Tablet?
Afamac 20 Tablet is taken orally, without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Swallow the complete tablet with water and avoid crushing or breaking it. Take this medicine once daily around the same time each day for easier dosing.
Does Afamac 20 Tablet have any effect on fertility?
Afamac 20 Tablet may affect fertility in both men and women. If you are concerned about fertility, consult your doctor for guidance and consider sperm or egg preservation before initiating treatment.
Can Afamac 20 Tablet be given along with chemotherapy?
There is currently no supporting data suggesting that Afamac 20 Tablet can be used in combination with other chemotherapy medicines. It is specifically intended for treating specific types of lung cancer when prior chemotherapy has been ineffective.
Can Afamac 20 Tablet cure lung cancer?
No, Afamac 20 Tablet cannot cure lung cancer. However, it can potentially extend patient survival and reduce tumor size.
What should I avoid while taking Afamac 20 Tablet?
Afamac 20 Tablet may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn, rashes, or acne worsening. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when going outside in the sun.
Can I do something if I get diarrhea due to Afamac 20 Tablet?
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Afamac 20 Tablet. If it becomes severe, there is a risk of excessive fluid loss (dehydration) and kidney problems that can be life-threatening. Immediately begin drinking fluids. Contact your doctor as soon as possible. They will prescribe appropriate antidiarrheal medication (e.g., loperamide), which may also require dose reduction or discontinuation.
