Afayro 20 Tablet
Manufacturer
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (20mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afayro 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
Afayro 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. Afayro 20 Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
Diarrhea, rash, dry skin, and nausea
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afayro 20 Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afayro 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
Afayro 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
Afayro 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
Take Afayro 20 Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afayro 20 Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afayro 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.
Related Medicines
Frequently asked questions
Is Afayro 20 Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afayro 20 Tablet is a kinase inhibitor and belongs to a class of anti-cancer medicines. It works by blocking proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
How long does it take for Afayro 20 Tablet to work?
Afayro 20 Tablet peaks within 2-5 hours after administration. However, it can take weeks or months to see a noticeable effect on the progression of cancer, as improvements in symptoms may not be immediately apparent.
How should I take Afayro 20 Tablet?
Afayro 20 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 to facilitate remembering.
Does Afayro 20 Tablet have any effect on fertility?
Afayro 20 Tablet may affect both male and female fertility. If you are concerned about your fertility, consult your doctor who can potentially advise sperm or egg preservation before treatment.
Can Afayro 20 Tablet be given along with chemotherapy?
There is no existing research to suggest that Afayro 20 Tablet can be used in conjunction with other chemotherapy drugs. It is specifically designed for treating specific types of lung cancer when prior chemotherapy has proven insufficient.
Can Afayro 20 Tablet cure lung cancer?
No, Afayro 20 Tablet cannot cure lung cancer but it can prolong survival and may reduce the tumor's size. It is not intended as a curative treatment for this disease.
What should I avoid while taking Afayro 20 Tablet?
Exposure to sunlight can make skin sensitive to the sun when taking Afayro 20 Tablet. You may develop sunburn, rash or acne which could worsen.
Can I do something if I get diarrhea due to Afayro 20 Tablet?
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Afayro 20 Tablet. However, it's important to contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe diarrhea as this can lead to dehydration and kidney problems that may be life-threatening. Start drinking plenty of fluids at the first sign of diarrhea and seek medical advice.
