First-line molecularly targeted monotherapy for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors express activating EGFR tyrosine kinase mutations.
First-line molecularly targeted monotherapy for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors express activating EGFR tyrosine kinase mutations.
Inhibits the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR-TK) through competitive binding with ATP. This halts downstream signaling pathways that promote cancer cell survival, invasion, and angiogenesis.
Diarrhea, acneiform skin rash, dry skin, nail disorders (paronychia), elevated transaminases, and interstitial lung disease.
Exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations within the EGFR gene must be confirmed via tumor biopsy or liquid biopsy.
Take once daily, at approximately the same time each day, with or without food. Avoid taking it with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Yes, drop the tablet into half a glass of non-carbonated water, allow it to disintegrate without crushing for 10 minutes, stir, and drink immediately.
Patients frequently experience paronychia, which involves painful inflammation, tenderness, and cracking around the fingernail and toenail beds.
The sudden onset of progressive dyspnea, wheezing, and a dry cough can indicate Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), which requires stopping the drug permanently.
Use mild, soap-free cleansers, apply thick, alcohol-free moisturizers regularly, and use topical clindamycin or oral doxycycline if acneiform pustules develop.
Yes, it can elevate INR levels and increase bleeding risks. Patients taking Warfarin require frequent prothrombin time monitoring.
Liver function tests should be performed monthly during the first few months of therapy, as asymptomatic elevations in liver enzymes are common.
Moderate alcohol intake is generally acceptable, but should be minimized to avoid placing additional metabolic stress on the liver.
The median progression-free survival window is approximately 10 to 12 months, after which tumors often develop secondary resistance mutations like T790M.