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