Afatin 30mg Tablet
Manufacturer
BDR Pharmaceuticals Internationals Pvt
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (30mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afatin 30mg 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 30mg 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 30mg Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
How it works
Afatin 30mg 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 30mg Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afatin 30mg Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afatin 30mg Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afatin 30mg 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.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Afatin 30mg Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afatin 30mg Tablet is a kinase inhibitor used to treat specific types of lung cancer. It does not belong to immunotherapy or conventional chemotherapy. It works by blocking proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
How long does it take for Afatin 30mg Tablet to work?
The peak levels of Afatin 30mg Tablet are reached 2-5 hours after taking it. However, the effectiveness of Afatin 30mg Tablet may not be immediately noticeable, and noticeable changes in cancer progression can take weeks or months.
How should I take Afatin 30mg Tablet?
Afatin 30mg Tablet is taken by mouth without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 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 for optimal dosing. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, dissolve it in a glass of water. Do not use any other liquid instead of water. Drop the tablet into the water without crushing it and stir occasionally for up to 15 minutes until the tablet is broken up into very small particles. Drink the liquid straight away. Then refill the glass with water and drink it to ensure all medication is taken.
Does Afatin 30mg Tablet have any effect on fertility?
Afatin 30mg Tablet may decrease fertility in both men and women, so if you have concerns about fertility, talk to your doctor. They might suggest sperm or egg preservation before starting treatment.
Can Afatin 30mg Tablet be given along with chemotherapy?
There are no studies supporting the use of Afatin 30mg Tablet alongside other chemotherapy medications. It is used specifically for certain types of lung cancer where prior chemotherapy was insufficient.
Can Afatin 30mg Tablet cure lung cancer?
No, Afatin 30mg Tablet cannot cure lung cancer, but it can help prolong survival and may reduce the size of tumors. It is important to remember that its effects are not always immediately noticeable or dramatic.
What should I avoid while taking Afatin 30mg Tablet?
You should avoid sun exposure as Afatin 30mg Tablet makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This can result in sunburn, rash, acne, or worsening of these existing conditions. Therefore, use sunscreen and wear a hat before going out in the sun. Wear clothing that covers your skin when you must be exposed to sunlight.
Can I do something if I get diarrhea due to Afatin 30mg Tablet?
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Afatin 30mg Tablet. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and kidney problems, which may pose a significant health risk. If you experience severe diarrhea, start drinking plenty of fluids immediately. Contact your doctor as soon as possible to ensure appropriate anti-diarrheal treatment (such as loperamide) is started promptly. The doctor may also consider reducing the dose or discontinuing therapy if you develop severe diarrhea.
