Afatinib

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Afatinib is available for use via the oral route in the form of film-coated tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use by adults only. It is not recommended for children or adolescents.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with a history of interstitial lung disease.

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to afatinib or any of its excipients.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Afatinib can interact with medications affecting liver enzymes (such as ketoconazole, rifampin), antacids (such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide), and proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole, esomeprazole). It may also interact with other cancer treatments (such as paclitaxel, gemcitabine) and blood thinners (such as warfarin, dabigatran).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Afatinib may increase the risk of severe adverse effects such as diarrhoea, rash, and liver enzyme elevations. If you suspect an overdose, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

• If you miss a dose of Afatinib, take it as soon as you remember unless it is less than 12 hours until the next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For diarrhoea, consider reducing the intake of high-fibre foods and increasing hydration.

• For skin-related side effects like rash and dry skin, using gentle skin care products and avoiding excessive sun exposure may help mitigate symptoms.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Afatinib may cause fatigue or eye-related side effects like blurred vision which could affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is advised to avoid such activities if these symptoms are experienced.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Afatinib is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is crucial to consult your doctor about the use of this medication.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment should use Afatinib with caution.

• Caution is also advised for patients who have experienced keratitis or are at risk of cardiac dysfunction.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain adequate hydration to help manage potential diarrhoea caused by Afatinib.

• Implement a skincare routine that includes the use of moisturizers and sunscreen to protect against skin-related side effects.

• Consider dietary adjustments such as reducing spicy foods and beverages that might irritate the digestive system if experiencing stomach-related side effects like nausea.

• Engage in stress-reducing activities such as light exercise, yoga, or meditation that might help improve overall well-being during cancer treatment.

• Regularly monitor your weight and nutritional intake as decreased appetite can be a side effect of Afatinib.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions