Erlotinib

Dosage Forms Available

• Erlotinib is available as a tablet for oral administration.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Erlotinib is meant for adult use only.

• Its dosage and duration are to be decided by your doctor. Follow the doctor's instructions closely.

Contraindications

• Erlotinib does not have any known contraindications based on medical conditions.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Erlotinib can interact with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, and clarithromycin) and strong inducers of CYP3A4 (such as rifampin, phenytoin, and carbamazepine).

• Consult your doctor before starting any new medication while taking this medicine.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may lead to side effects such as mouth sores and nausea. If such symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor immediately.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and consult your doctor for dosage instructions. Do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, consult your doctor.

• Drinking ample water can help manage diarrhoea and mouth sores.

• Eating smaller meals more frequently can help manage appetite loss and nausea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Erlotinib may cause fatigue and affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. If you feel drowsy or fatigued after taking this medicine, refrain from doing these activities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Erlotinib should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the foetus or infant. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before starting this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with pre-existing liver disease, hepatic impairment, or biliary tract disease should exercise caution and be closely monitored by a doctor when starting Erlotinib.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Patients should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on Erlotinib as these can increase the risk of its side effects.

• Patients taking it are advised to limit sun exposure and use sunscreen due to an increased risk of skin reactions.

• Patients are recommended to quit smoking as it can reduce the medicine's effectiveness.