Erlotinib

This page provides brief information on erlotinib, covering its prescribed use, recommended dosage and administration, mechanism of action, associated brands and their strengths, precautionary warnings, and typical side effects.

Context and Approval Date

On November 18, 2004, the FDA approved erlotinib, a targeted anticancer treatment drug, for medical use.

Mechanism of Action of Erlotinib

The biological agent erlotinib serves as a targeted drug therapy in the treatment of cancer. It is an anticancer medication that falls under the tyrosine kinase inhibitor category. Erlotinib targets the EGFR tyrosine kinase protein, interfering with cell signaling pathways to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. Doctors can prescribe it alone or as a maintenance therapy.

All Substitutes

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Product Packaging Size Manufacturer Price
Erlocip 150mg tablet 30 tablets Cipla Ltd INR 3500
Erlofast 150mg tablet 30 tablets Celon Laboratories Ltd INR 4100
Erloshil 150mg tablet 30 tablets Shilpa Medicare Ltd INR 1250
Zyceva 150mg tablet 30 tablets Zydus Cadila INR 2150
Bderlo 150mg tablet 10 tablets BDR Pharmaceuticals INR 1900
Erlonat 150mg tablet 30 tablets Natco Pharma Ltd INR 7200

Uses of Erlotinib

Researchers developed erlotinib to treat advanced and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with an EGFR gene mutation. Patients whose cancer did not improve with chemotherapy or worsened after four cycles typically receive it.

Erlotinib administration guidelines and available dosage options

Erlotinib is available in tablet form in doses of 100 mg and 150 mg. The usual recommended dose is 150 mg per day. Your healthcare provider will determine the ideal dose based on your condition. Take Erlotinib with a large glass of water, either one hour before or two hours after a meal.

Information about Erlotinib

Erlotinib uses

Erlotinib is used to treat non-small-cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.

How erlotinib works

Erlotinib tablet is an anti-cancer medication. Lung cancer cell surfaces express epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR), which modulate their growth. This medicine works by binding the chemical messenger, EGFR; hence, it inhibits the cancer signaling pathways mediated by EGFR. This is how it restricts the cancer cells' further growth.

Common side effects of erlotinib

Acne, Conjunctivitis, Dry skin, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Hair follicle inflammation, hair loss, nosebleeds, Skin fissures, Corneal inflammation, paronychia, Renal insufficiency
1. Erlotinib helps treat non-small-cell lung cancer that is locally advanced or has spread to other areas of the body.
2. You should take it either one hour before or two hours after the meal.
3. Diarrhea is a possible side effect. Fluids and a doctor visit if it continues or you have blood in your stools.
4. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine, and for a month after you stop taking it.
5. It makes your skin sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing while going out.
6. It is advisable to avoid smoking while taking this medicine, as it makes the drug ineffective and requires dose adjustment.
7. Do not take it with medications that lower stomach acid (such as antacids and H2 blockers, including ranitidine), as it may affect medicine's function.
8. If you develop ulceration in your mouth, changes in your vision, a worsening cough, shortness of breath, or breathing difficulties while taking this medicine, inform your doctor.
9. Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to monitor your liver function while you are receiving treatment with this medicine.
10. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Erlotinib

Warning

If you have an allergy to Erlotinib or any of its ingredients, you should not take an Erlotinib tablet. During the Erlotinib treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood counts, blood sugar, electrolytes, liver panel, and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Inform your doctor about any diagnosis of stomach ulcers, cataracts, lung disease, lactose intolerance, or issues with your heart, liver, skin, or kidneys. Tell your physician before you undergo eye surgery or dental procedures. 

Precautions

It is not known whether erlotinib causes harm to an unborn baby. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting this treatment.

Side effects

Erlotinib may cause common side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, conjunctivitis, tiredness, breathlessness, cough, infection, loss of appetite, rash, pruritus, and dry skin. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report them to your doctor immediately.

Word of advice

Use an effective moisturizer to prevent skin dryness. Ensure that you stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines if you experience dizziness, eye irritation, or tiredness while on treatment with Erlotinib. Inform your healthcare provider about your lactose intolerance diagnosis prior to taking Erlotinib.

FAQ - Erlotinib

1Is Erlotinib prescribed as a monotherapy?
For the treatment of advanced and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, doctors prescribe erlotinib both as a monotherapy and as a maintenance therapy.
2What tests are essential before starting treatment with Erlotinib?
Before starting treatment with Erlotinib, your healthcare provider will likely recommend tests for an EGFR gene mutation, liver function, kidney function, and serum electrolytes.
3Is it safe to undergo a surgery during the treatment with Erlotinib?
Erlotinib is associated with an increased risk of bleeding in the stomach or intestinal wall. Therefore, we recommend not planning any surgery while undergoing Erlotinib treatment. If you need surgery or dental procedures, inform your doctor.
4What should I do if I missed a dose of Erlotinib?
If you miss a dose of Erlotinib Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not take two tablets to make up for the missed dose. If you have missed more than two doses, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
5What should you not take with Erlotinib?
While on Erlotinib, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
6Can I smoke while on treatment with Erlotinib?
It is not advisable to smoke while receiving Erlotinib treatment because it can lower the body's concentration of Erlotinib.
7How should I store Erlotinib?
Store Erlotinib tablets and capsules at a temperature between 15 and 30 °C, keeping them out of the reach of children and protecting them from moisture.

References

1. Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Pathway-Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203-1236.
2. Roche, [Revised on Sep 2021] [Accessed on 27th Sep 2022],https://www.rochecanada.com/PMs/
Tarceva/Tarceva_PM_E.pdf