Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement, or herbal product you are taking.
Some medicines can affect how Tucanat works, such as:
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Certain antifungal medicines
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Some antibiotics
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Rifampin-type medicines
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Seizure medications
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St. John’s Wort
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Some medicines for acidity or stomach issues
These can increase side effects or reduce Tucanat's effectiveness.
Storage
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Store below 30°C and keep away from sunlight.
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Keep the tablets in the original packaging until use.
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Do not freeze.
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Keep away from children.
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Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely. Don’t flush them.
How to Take It
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Take it exactly as your cancer doctor tells you.
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Usually taken twice daily (every 12 hours), with or without food.
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Swallow whole, don’t crush or chew.
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Try to take it at the exact times every day.
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If you vomit after taking it, don’t take another dose — wait for the next one.
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Don’t skip doses or stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.
Safety Advice
Pregnancy: Do not use during pregnancy. Women should use contraception during treatment and for at least one week after the last dose.
Breastfeeding: Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
Liver: Regular liver tests are required because the medicine can affect liver function.
Lungs: Use only under strict doctor supervision. Report breathing issues immediately.
Alcohol: Avoid alcohol — it may worsen liver side effects.
Some people feel dizzy or tired — be cautious when driving.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Some people may experience:
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Diarrhea
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Tiredness
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Nausea or vomiting
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Mouth sores
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Loss of appetite
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Red or sore hands and feet
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Changes in liver test results
These often improve over time. Tell your doctor if they become severe or persist.
Serious Side Effects — Contact Your Doctor Immediately
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Yellow skin or eyes
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Heavy diarrhea with weakness
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Breathing difficulty or swelling
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High fever or infections
Helpful Tips
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Keep ORS (oral rehydration solution) handy for diarrhea.
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Use sunscreen and moisturizer if your skin becomes sensitive.
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Eat mild, non-spicy foods if you have nausea.
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Inform your doctor about any over-the-counter medications you take.
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Track your symptoms daily — it helps your doctor guide your treatment.
FAQs
Q1: What is Tucanat 150mg used for?
For HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread, including to the brain. Often used after other treatments stop working.
Q2: How is this different from chemotherapy?
It targets only cancer cells that express the HER2 protein, causing fewer side effects in normal cells.
Q3: What is the usual dose?
Typically 300mg twice daily — meaning two 150mg tablets in the morning and two in the evening.
Q4: What if I miss or vomit a dose?
If more than 8 hours have passed, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Don’t double the dose. If you vomit after taking it, don’t re-take — wait for the next dose.
Q5: Can it help with cancer that spreads to the brain?
Yes. Tucatinib can reach the brain and help control cancer there.