| Brand Name | Iressa |
| Packaging Type | Strip |
| Molecule | Gefitinib |
| Generic Name | Gefitinib 250mg |
| Manufactured By | Astrazeneca Pharma India |
| Quantity | 30 Tablets |
| Form | Tablet |
| Country of Origin | India |
| Categories | Oncology |
Introduction to Iressa 250mg Tablet
Iressa 250mg Tablets are a medicine used to treat lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This medicine is for people whose cancer has spread or cannot be treated with surgery. It works best in patients with a specific change (mutation) in their EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) gene.
The active ingredient in Iressa drug is gefitinib, and AstraZeneca manufactures it. Iressa 250 mg helps slow down or stop cancer cells from growing.
How It Works
Iressa works by targeting the EGFR protein in the body. This protein helps cancer cells grow and spread. Iressa 250mg blocks EGFR, stopping cancer cells from growing and helping to shrink the tumor.
This makes it easier to manage cancer and reduces symptoms like trouble breathing or tiredness.
Uses of Iressa 250 mg Tablets
- Treat advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- Help people with specific EGFR gene mutations.
- Slow down cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
- Doctors often use Iressa gefitinb 250mg as a first-line treatment for people with NSCLC.
Dosage :
- Usual Dose: Take one tablet (250mg) daily.
- How to Take: Swallow the tablet whole with water. It can be taken with or without food.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose and your next scheduled dose is soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed one.
Side Effects of Iressa Gefitinib 250mg Tablet
Like all medicines, Iressa can cause side effects. Some are mild, while others need medical attention.
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Rash or dry skin
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Severe diarrhea or dehydration
- Eye problems like pain or blurred vision
- Breathing trouble
- Liver issues (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine)
Precautions
- Do not use Iressa 240mg if you are pregnant or nursing. It could harm the baby.
- Inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney, or lung problems.
- Your doctor may do blood tests to check your liver and monitor your progress.
Drug Interactions
Iressa gefitinib 250 mg may not work well with certain medicines. Tell your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you take.
- Antacids within 2 hours of taking Iressa.
- Some antibiotics or antifungal medicines.
- Always ask your doctor before starting a new medicine while taking Iressa.
Warnings
Consult your healthcare proffessional before taking Iressa Gefitinib 250mg Tablets.
Tagrisso vs Gefitinib
| Feature | Tagrisso (Osimertinib) | Gefitinib |
| Drug Class | Third-generation EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) | First-generation EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) |
| FDA Approval | 2015 | 2003 |
| Target Mutation | EGFR mutations, including T790M resistance mutation | EGFR sensitizing mutations |
| Mechanism of Action | Irreversibly inhibits EGFR, T790M, and mutant proteins | Selectively inhibits EGFR tyrosine kinase |
| Efficacy | Higher efficacy for advanced stages and T790M mutations | Effective in early-stage EGFR-mutated NSCLC |
| Cost | Higher due to newer formulation and patent | Lower cost; generic versions widely available |
| Availability | Globally available but often limited by cost | Widely available, including generic versions |
| Tolerability | Generally better tolerated than earlier TKIs | Well-tolerated but associated with severe liver effects in some cases |
| Survival Benefits | Median progression-free survival: ~18.9 months (FLAURA trial) | Median progression-free survival: ~10.9 months |