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Erlotinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Tarceva® Cancer-related

Erlotinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Erlotinib cause?

  • Nausea and vomiting can sometimes occur when you first start taking Erlotinib
  • Loss of appetite
  • Acne-like rash or itchy dry skin may develop initially but will decrease in severity after 4 or more weeks of treatment
  • Diarrhea is usually transient and can be treated with antidiarrheal medicines
  • Dryness of the eyes may occur
  • Feeling weak or tired

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Skin rash that is bothersome
  • Changes in vision or eye irritation
  • Breathlessness or fever
  • Severe abdominal pain

Before taking Erlotinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medical conditions you have as well as other medicines or supplements you are taking.
  • Avoid smoking while taking Erlotinib as this may interfere with your treatment.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Erlotinib ?

Avoid grapefruit or its juice while on Erlotinib.

Erlotinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 8/31/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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