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Lapatinib

Uses

Lapatinib is used in the treatment of breast cancer.

How it Works

How Lapatinib works Lapatinib is an anti-cancer medication that targets the HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor) and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) receptors, which are responsible for the over-proliferation of cells. By inhibiting these receptors, Lapatinib disrupts the growth of cancerous cells and interferes with downstream signaling pathways.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Lapatinib include back pain, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), nausea, rash, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), vomiting, weakness, breathlessness, decreased appetite, dry skin, hair loss, itching, nail disorder, nosebleeds, dyspepsia, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, pain in extremities, paronychia, increased alanine aminotransferase, and increased aspartate aminotransferase.

Expert Advice

  • Take the medication 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, preferably at the same time every day.
  • Diarrhea may occur as a side effect; drink plenty of fluids and inform your doctor if it persists or if you notice blood in your stools.
  • Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for one month after discontinuation.
  • Monitor your blood pressure regularly while on this medication.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of very high blood pressure, such as:
    • Severe headache
    • Confusion
    • Vision problems
    • Nausea or vomiting
  • This medication may cause serious bleeding problems; inform your doctor if you experience:
    • Headaches
    • Stomach pain
    • Blood in your urine or stools
  • Do not take this medication if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

Take Lapatinib exactly as prescribed by your doctor, swallowing the tablets whole with a glass of water at the same time each day, either 1 hour before or 1 hour after meals.
No, Lapatinib is a targeted drug classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which works by blocking abnormal proteins that signal cancer cells to multiply, making it more specific than traditional chemotherapy.
Lapatinib can potentially cause severe liver damage, which may occur days to months after treatment begins. Notify your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or experience symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, or unusual bleeding.
Use effective contraception during Lapatinib treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose. Inform your doctor if you become pregnant for guidance on your treatment plan.
To care for your skin, use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products, a soap-free cleanser, and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Report any rashes to your doctor immediately.
To manage diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids (8-10 glasses daily), consume low-fat, high-protein foods, and avoid fatty or spicy foods. Cooked vegetables and peeled fruits are preferable. Inform your doctor if diarrhea persists, as treatment may need adjustment.
Before starting Lapatinib, your doctor may conduct tests to assess heart and liver function, as Lapatinib can affect heart rhythm and blood circulation. Based on test results, dosage adjustments may be necessary.
Yes, Lapatinib is often used in combination with other anti-cancer drugs, such as capecitabine for advanced breast cancer and letrozole for breast cancer in post-menopausal women.
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