Afzeta 40mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
Salt Composition
Afatinib dimaleate (40mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Afzeta 40mg 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
Afzeta 40mg 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. Afzeta 40mg Tablet is to be taken empty stomach.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Afzeta 40mg Tablet does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Afzeta 40mg 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
Afzeta 40mg 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
Afzeta 40mg 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 Afzeta 40mg Tablet for the treatment of certain type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). Take Afzeta 40mg Tablet on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Diarrhea is common with Afzeta 40mg Tablet and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat diarrhea. Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed. Afzeta 40mg 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. Afzeta 40mg Tablet can cause redness, rash, and acne. Get treatment for skin reactions as soon as you notice them. 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
Afayro 40 Tablet
Afamac 40 Tablet
Afatin 40mg Tablet
Xovoltib 40mg Tablet
Afmed 40mg Tablet
Afanat 40 Tablet
Afadel 40mg Tablet
Frequently asked questions
Is Afzeta 40mg Tablet an immunotherapy or chemotherapy?
Afzeta 40mg Tablet is a type of kinase inhibitor medication. It works by blocking specific proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells, preventing their uncontrolled multiplication.
How long does it take for Afzeta 40mg Tablet to work?
The peak effect of Afzeta 40mg Tablet is reached within 2-5 hours after administration. However, its full impact on cancer progression may require several weeks or months to observe significant changes in symptoms.
How should I take Afzeta 40mg Tablet?
Afzeta 40mg Tablet is taken orally with a glass of water, at least one hour before or three hours after meals. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or breaking it, and take it once daily at approximately the same time each day to enhance consistency in medication administration.
Does Afzeta 40mg Tablet affect fertility?
Afzeta 40mg Tablet may affect fertility in both men and women. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns regarding fertility as they can suggest sperm or egg preservation measures before initiating treatment.
Can Afzeta 40mg Tablet be given alongside chemotherapy?
No specific studies currently support the administration of Afzeta 40mg Tablet in conjunction with other chemotherapeutic agents. It's designed for specific types of lung cancer where prior chemotherapy has been inadequate.
Can Afzeta 40mg Tablet cure lung cancer?
Afzeta 40mg Tablet cannot cure lung cancer, but it can prolong survival and potentially reduce tumor size. Its primary role is to offer supportive treatment for patients with a specific type of lung cancer.
What should I avoid while taking Afzeta 40mg Tablet?
Exposure to sunlight may increase sensitivity, leading to skin irritation like sunburn or worsening existing conditions like rash or acne. When exposed to the sun, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing such as hats.
What should I do if I experience diarrhea while taking Afzeta 40mg Tablet?
Diarrhea is a frequent side effect of Afzeta 40mg Tablet. If severe, it can lead to dehydration and kidney problems that may be life-threatening. Start drinking fluids immediately and seek immediate medical assistance. Your doctor will prescribe appropriate antidiarrheal medication like loperamide, if necessary.
