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Afatinib dimaleate

Uses

Afatinib dimaleate is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. It is indicated for adult patients who have specific EGFR mutations.

How it Works

How Afatinib dimaleate works Afatinib dimaleate is an anti-cancer medication. It functions by binding to and inhibiting the enzyme receptors (EGFR, HER2, and HER4) that are responsible for the growth of cancer cells, leading to the downregulation of signaling pathways. This mechanism helps to stop or slow the spread of cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Afatinib dimaleate include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, rash, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), loss of appetite, dry skin, decreased appetite, and nail disorders.

Expert Advice

  • You have been prescribed Afatinib dimaleate for the treatment of a specific type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer).
  • Take Afatinib dimaleate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal.
  • Diarrhea is common with Afatinib dimaleate and may sometimes be severe. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat diarrhea.
  • Stay hydrated and take this medicine exactly as directed.
  • Afatinib dimaleate can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Limit your sun exposure.
  • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you need to be in sunlight.
  • Afatinib dimaleate can cause redness, rash, and acne. Seek treatment for skin reactions as soon as you notice them.
  • Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine and for one month after you stop taking it.
  • Monitor your blood pressure regularly while on this medication.
  • Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure, such as severe headache, confusion, vision problems, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

Take Afatinib dimaleate orally without food, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Swallow the entire tablet with water; do not crush or break it. Take it once daily at the same time. If swallowing is difficult, dissolve the tablet in water and drink immediately.
Afatinib dimaleate does not cure lung cancer but can extend patient survival and may reduce tumor size.
Avoid sun exposure, as Afatinib dimaleate can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to severe sunburn or skin rashes. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and a hat when outdoors.
Afatinib dimaleate may reduce fertility in both men and women. If concerned about fertility, consult your doctor about options for sperm or egg preservation prior to starting treatment.
Peak levels of Afatinib dimaleate are reached 2-5 hours after administration, but noticeable changes in cancer progression may take weeks or months. Symptom improvement can be observed, but effectiveness is confirmed through specific medical evaluations.
Afatinib dimaleate is classified as a kinase inhibitor, not as an immunotherapy or conventional chemotherapy. It works by blocking proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells, thereby inhibiting their proliferation.
Current studies do not support the concurrent use of Afatinib dimaleate with other chemotherapy agents. It is indicated for specific types of lung cancer when prior chemotherapy has not been effective.
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Afatinib dimaleate and can lead to dehydration and serious complications. Drink plenty of fluids at the first sign of diarrhea and contact your doctor immediately for appropriate treatment, which may include antidiarrheal medication or dose adjustments.
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