AVAILABLE MEDICINE FOR Gefitinib
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Geftinat Gefitinib 250mg Tablets
$77.69 |
$77.69 |
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Gefticip Gefitinib 250mg Tablets
$230.00 $300.00 |
$230.00 $300.00 |
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Iressa Gefitinib 250mg Tablets
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Ask for Price |
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UltraGef Gefitinib IP 250mg Tablets
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Ask for Price |
Gefitinib is an FDA-approved targeted therapy drug used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, primarily non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It belongs to the class of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, which block the activity of EGFR—a protein that promotes the growth and division of cancer cells.
Mechanism of Action
Gefitinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that:
- Targets EGFR: Gefitinib binds to the tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR, preventing its activation.
- Inhibits Signal Transduction: By blocking EGFR, it disrupts downstream signaling pathways responsible for cell proliferation, survival, and migration.
- Selective for Mutations: Most effective in cancers with specific EGFR mutations (e.g., exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations).
Indications
Gefitinib is approved for:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Specifically for patients with activating EGFR mutations.
- It is used as a first-line treatment or in patients who have relapsed or are resistant to chemotherapy.
Benefits of Gefitinib
- Targeted Therapy: Minimizes harm to normal cells compared to conventional chemotherapy.
- Personalized Treatment: Works best in patients with identified EGFR mutations, making it an effective precision medicine.
Side Effects of Gefitinib
While generally well-tolerated, gefitinib can cause some side effects, including:
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Rash or acne-like skin reactions
- Dry skin
- Nausea
- Serious Side Effects:
- Interstitial lung disease (rare but potentially fatal).
- Liver enzyme abnormalities.
Drug Interactions
Gefitinib may interact with:
- CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs like rifampin can reduce its effectiveness by increasing metabolism.
- Antacids: Can reduce gefitinib absorption when taken together.
Monitoring and Precautions
- Patient Selection: Testing for EGFR mutations is essential before starting treatment.
- Regular Monitoring: Liver function tests and pulmonary assessments are recommended to detect adverse effects early.
Global Availability
Gefitinib is marketed under brands like Iressa and is widely available across countries. It has been instrumental in improving survival rates for EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients, making it a cornerstone in modern oncology.
Gefitinib represents a milestone in cancer treatment, exemplifying the power of targeted therapies. Inhibiting EGFR activity provides a focused approach to halting tumor growth, particularly in lung cancers driven by EGFR mutations. Always consult an oncologist for detailed evaluation and personalized treatment plans.
