Afanat 20 Tablet
Manufacturer
Natco Pharma Ltd
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (20mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afanat 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
Afanat 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. Afanat 20 Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afanat 20 Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afanat 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
Afanat 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
Afanat 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 Afanat 20 Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afanat 20 Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afanat 20 Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afanat 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 Afanat 20 Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afanat 20 Tablet is neither an immunotherapy nor conventional chemotherapy. It belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors, which are used in the treatment of certain types of cancer.
How long does it take for Afanat 20 Tablet to work?
Afanat 20 Tablet's peak level is reached within 2-5 hours after taking it. However, the full effects of treatment may not become apparent for weeks or even months due to the complexity of cancer progression and individual patient responses.
How should I take Afanat 20 Tablet?
Afanat 20 Tablet is taken by mouth without food, at least one hour before or three hours after meals. Swallow the complete tablet with water without crushing or breaking it. Take this medicine once daily at about the same time each day to improve memory and adherence.
Does Afanat 20 Tablet have any effect on fertility?
Afanat 20 Tablet may impact fertility in both men and women. If you have concerns regarding your fertility, discuss them with your doctor who may recommend sperm or egg preservation before starting treatment.
Can Afanat 20 Tablet be given along with chemotherapy?
Currently, there are no studies that support the use of Afanat 20 Tablet in combination with other chemotherapy medications. It is specifically used for treating specific types of lung cancer when conventional chemotherapy has been unsuccessful.
Can Afanat 20 Tablet cure lung cancer?
No, Afanat 20 Tablet cannot cure lung cancer but it can prolong survival in patients and reduce tumor size. However, treatment should always be discussed with a doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Afanat 20 Tablet?
You should protect your skin from prolonged sun exposure as Afanat 20 Tablet may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Prolonged sun exposure could lead to sunburn or other skin reactions like rash, acne, or worsening of existing skin conditions. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing before going outdoors in the sun.
Can I do something if I get diarrhea due to Afanat 20 Tablet?
Diarrhea is a common side effect associated with Afanat 20 Tablet. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and kidney problems, which are serious health risks. Begin drinking plenty of fluids as soon as you experience diarrhea. Contact your doctor immediately if the diarrhea is severe. They may prescribe antidiarrheal medications like loperamide or adjust your medication dosage.
