Geficad 250mg Tablet

About

Geficad 250mg Tablet contains gefitinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It works by selectively blocking the activity of the EGFR enzyme, which is often overexpressed or mutated in certain types of cancer cells, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By inhibiting EGFR signaling pathways, gefitinib helps to prevent cancer cell growth, proliferation, and survival. This targeted therapy is crucial for patients whose tumors have specific activating mutations in the EGFR gene, as it offers a more precise approach to treatment compared to traditional chemotherapy, often leading to improved progression-free survival and response rates in this patient population. The drug's efficacy is directly linked to the presence of these specific mutations, making patient selection through molecular testing a critical step before initiating treatment. Its mechanism of action focuses on disrupting the signaling cascades essential for tumor development and progression, thereby offering a targeted approach to cancer management.

Uses

• Treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Used in patients with activating EGFR gene mutations.
• First-line therapy for eligible NSCLC patients.
• Treatment after failure of prior chemotherapy for NSCLC.

Directions For Use

Take this tablet orally, once daily, with or without food, as directed by your physician. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Benefits

• Targets specific cancer pathways.
• Effective in EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
• Oral administration for convenience.
• May improve progression-free survival.
• Potentially fewer systemic side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
• Offers a personalized treatment approach.

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Skin rash (acne-like)
• Dry skin
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Stomatitis
• Conjunctivitis
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Interstitial lung disease (rare but serious)
• Hair loss
• Fatigue

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate liver-related side effects or interact with the medication.
• Pregnancy - Geficad is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception should be used by women of childbearing potential.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Geficad and for a period after the last dose, as the drug may pass into breast milk.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential during treatment.
• Kidney - Generally, no dose adjustment is required for mild to moderate renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases.
• Lung - Patients should be monitored for new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, as interstitial lung disease is a rare but serious side effect.

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