For treating cancer.
Brand Name(s): Gilotrif
Generic Name: Afatinib
Instructions
Keep the medicine in its original container.
Take on empty stomach - 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.
Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.
Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.
This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 12 hours to the next dose, do not take the dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening of symptoms. If you notice difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 weeks after stopping treatment.
This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.
Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 2 weeks after stopping to prevent pregnancy.
Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Always refill this medicine before it runs out.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- acne
- decreased appetite
- diarrhea
- nosebleeds
- mouth sores or irritation
- nausea and vomiting
- dry skin
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- chest pain
- coughing
- severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- pain in the eye
- fever
- fast or irregular heart beats
- sensitivity to light
- signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
- muscle cramps
- shortness of breath
- red, peeling or blistering skin
- urinary tract infections
- urinating less often
- difficulty or discomfort urinating
- blurring or changes of vision
- vision problems - blind spots or dark spots
- vision problems - changes in seeing color
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about AFATINIB - ORAL
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
