Afatinib

Afatinib is an anticancer medicine mainly used to treat a specific type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is prescribed when the cancer has certain genetic changes known as EGFR mutations.

Afatinib works by slowing down or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It is a targeted therapy, not chemotherapy, meaning it focuses more on cancer cells and causes less damage to healthy cells.

This medicine should only be taken under the supervision of a cancer specialist, with regular monitoring during treatment.

Uses of Afatinib

Afatinib is used for:

• EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Advanced or metastatic lung cancer

• Patients who have not received previous EGFR-targeted treatment

Doctors usually recommend Afatinib after confirming an EGFR mutation through lab testing.

How Afatinib Works

Afatinib belongs to a group of medicines called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

It works by:

• Blocking EGFR proteins that help cancer cells grow and multiply

• Stopping signals that allow cancer cells to survive

• Slowing down tumor growth and spread

By targeting specific cancer pathways, Afatinib helps control cancer more precisely.

How to Take Afatinib

• Take Afatinib exactly as prescribed by your doctor

• Usually taken once daily, on an empty stomach

• Take it at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food

• Swallow the tablet whole with water

• Take it at the same time every day

Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

Possible Side Effects

Some people may experience side effects, including:

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhea

• Skin rash or acne-like eruptions

• Mouth sores

• Dry or itchy skin

• Loss of appetite

• Tiredness

These side effects are usually manageable with medical support.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help Immediately)

• Severe diarrhea leading to dehydration

• Breathing problems

• Eye pain or vision changes

• Severe skin reactions

Always inform your doctor if side effects become severe or persistent.

Safety Precautions

• Pregnancy: Not safe during pregnancy. Use effective contraception.

• Breastfeeding: Not recommended during treatment.

• Liver & Kidney: Regular tests may be needed.

• Sun Exposure: Skin may become sensitive; use sunscreen.

• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol intake.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take. Afatinib may interact with:

• Certain antibiotics

• Antifungal medicines

• Anti-seizure drugs

• Herbal products like St. John’s Wort

These interactions can reduce effectiveness or increase side effects.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C

• Keep away from moisture and sunlight

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use expired tablets

FAQs

Q1. What is Afatinib used for?

Afatinib is used to treat EGFR-positive non-small cell lung cancer.

Q2. Is Afatinib chemotherapy?

No. It is a targeted therapy that blocks specific signals that drive cancer growth.

Q3. How long does Afatinib treatment last?

Treatment duration depends on how well the cancer responds and should be decided by the doctor.

Q4. Can Afatinib cure cancer?

Afatinib helps control cancer growth but is not considered a cure.

Fact Box

• Drug Name: Afatinib

• Drug Class: Targeted anticancer therapy

• Category: Tyrosine kinase inhibitor

• Used For: EGFR-positive NSCLC