Afatin 20mg Tablet
Manufacturer
BDR Pharmaceuticals Internationals Pvt
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (20mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afatin 20mg 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
Afatin 20mg 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. Afatin 20mg Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afatin 20mg Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afatin 20mg 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
Afatin 20mg 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
Afatin 20mg 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 Afatin 20mg Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afatin 20mg Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afatin 20mg Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afatin 20mg 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
What type of medication is Afatin 20mg Tablet?
Afatin 20mg Tablet belongs to the class of kinase inhibitors, which are a type of anti-cancer medicine that works by blocking specific proteins involved in cancer cell growth and spread.
How long does it take for Afatin 20mg Tablet to start working?
The peak levels of Afatin 20mg Tablet are reached 2-5 hours after taking it, but noticeable changes in cancer progression may take weeks or months to appear.
How should I take Afatin 20mg Tablet?
Take Afatin 20mg Tablet by mouth without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Swallow the complete tablet with water, or dissolve it in a glass of water if you have difficulty swallowing.
Can Afatin 20mg Tablet affect fertility?
Yes, Afatin 20mg Tablet may decrease fertility in both men and women, so discuss concerns about fertility preservation with your doctor before starting treatment.
Can Afatin 20mg Tablet be used with chemotherapy?
There are no supporting studies for using Afatin 20mg Tablet alongside other chemotherapy medicines. It is specifically used to treat a type of lung cancer when prior chemotherapy has been insufficient.
Will Afatin 20mg Tablet cure my lung cancer?
No, Afatin 20mg Tablet cannot cure lung cancer, but it may prolong survival and reduce tumor size.
What precautions should I take while taking Afatin 20mg Tablet?
Avoid sun exposure as Afatin 20mg Tablet can make your skin sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and cover your skin when going outside in the sun.
What if I get diarrhea due to Afatin 20mg Tablet?
If you experience severe diarrhea, start drinking plenty of fluids immediately and contact your doctor. The doctor may prescribe antidiarrheal treatment or adjust your dosage.
