Erlotec 100mg Tablet
Manufacturer
United Biotech Pvt Ltd
Salt Composition
Erlotinib (100mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Erlotec 100mg Tablet is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Erlotec 100mg Tablet should be taken on an empty stomach or should be taken one hour before or 2 hours after a meal. You should continue to take it as long as your doctor advises it. The duration of treatment varies according to your needs and response to treatment. 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. The most common side effects of this medicine include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. It may cause severe diarrhea; drink plenty of fluids or consult with your doctor if it bothers you. It makes you sensitive towards sunlight; hence wear protective clothing or use sunscreen while going out. In case you develop ulceration in the mouth, changes in your vision, or breathing difficulties, it is better to inform the doctor. Your doctor may advise regular monitoring of liver function while you are taking this medicine. Many other medicines can affect or be affected by this medicine, so let your healthcare team know all medications you are using. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The use of effective contraception by both males and females during treatment is important to avoid pregnancy. It is advised to quit smoking while taking this medicine as it can affect the working of the medicine. If you have to take an antacid or any other medicine, take it at a gap of at least 2 hours after taking the cancer medicine.
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. Erlotec 100mg Tablet is to be taken on an empty stomach.
How it works
Erlotec 100mg Tablet is an anti-cancer medication. Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) are expressed on the lung cancer cell surfaces that modulate their growth. This medicine works by binding the chemical messenger EGFR, hence inhibiting the cancer signaling pathways mediated by EGFR. This is how it restricts further growth of the cancer cells.
Quick Tips
Erlotec 100mg Tablet helps treat non-small cell lung cancer that is locally advanced or has spread to other areas of the body. It should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after the meal. Diarrhea may occur as a side effect. Drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for a month after you stop taking it. It makes your skin sensitive towards sunlight. Apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing while going out. It is advisable to avoid smoking while taking this medicine as it makes the drug ineffective and requires dose adjustment. Do not take it with medication lowering the stomach acid (such as antacids, H2 blockers including ranitidine) as it may affect the working of medicine. Inform your doctor if you develop ulceration in your mouth, changes in your vision, or if you experience a worsening cough, shortness of breath, or breathing difficulties while taking this medicine. Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to monitor your liver function while you are having treatment with this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
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Frequently asked questions
How should Erlotec 100mg Tablet be taken?
Erlotec 100mg Tablet is a pill taken by mouth once daily without food as prescribed by your doctor. It must be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. It is advisable to take it at the same time each day for easy recall.
Is Erlotec 100mg Tablet a chemotherapy drug?
Erlotec 100mg Tablet is not a conventional chemotherapy medication. It belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of an abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply, helping to slow or stop the spread of cancer cells.
How long can I take Erlotec 100mg Tablet?
You need to take Erlotec 100mg Tablet every day as long as your doctor prescribes it for you. The duration of treatment may vary depending on individual needs and response.
Does smoking interfere with Erlotec 100mg Tablet?
Yes, smoking can interfere with the effectiveness of Erlotec 100mg Tablet. It significantly reduces its effectiveness, so it is recommended to quit smoking before starting treatment. Your doctor will need to adjust the dosage of Erlotec 100mg Tablet if you continue smoking or there are changes in your smoking patterns.
What should I do if I get a rash while taking Erlotec 100mg Tablet?
Rash is a common side effect of Erlotec 100mg Tablet. If you experience this, it's important not to stop the medication without consulting your doctor. They can suggest appropriate treatment measures for rashes. Avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
When can I plan pregnancy if I am taking Erlotec 100mg Tablet?
It is advised to avoid pregnancy while on treatment with Erlotec 100mg Tablet. If you are a woman of child-bearing age, use effective contraception during this time. It's advisable to avoid pregnancy for at least one month after your last Erlotec 100mg Tablet.
Does Erlotec 100mg Tablet affect eyes?
Erlotec 100mg Tablet can cause conjunctivitis and dry eyes. If you experience acute or worsening redness, pain in your eye, increased eye-watering, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, immediately contact your doctor as urgent treatment may be needed.
When should I call my doctor during treatment with Erlotec 100mg Tablet?
You should contact your doctor if you experience sudden difficulty breathing, accompanied by a cough or fever; severe or ongoing diarrhea; loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. You should also reach out to your doctor immediately if you experience acute or worsening redness and pain in your eye, increased eye-watering, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. Finally, inform your doctor if you are taking statin medication along with Erlotec 100mg Tablet and experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps.
