About erlotinib hcl
Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor
Used for
- Certain non-small-cell lung cancers
- Pancreatic cancer, with gemcitabine
Usual adult dose
Lung cancer: 150 mg once daily. Pancreatic cancer: 100 mg once daily with gemcitabine.
Common side effects
- Rash and dry skin
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Reduced appetite and fatigue
- Cough or breathing difficulty
Important warnings
- Take on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food.
- Seek urgent assessment for severe or persistent diarrhea, breathing problems, or eye pain.
- Can cause serious liver injury, gastrointestinal perforation, or severe skin reactions.
- Smoking can reduce erlotinib levels; dosing and monitoring depend on treatment and other medicines.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Pregnancy prevention is needed during treatment and for one month after the final dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for two weeks after the final dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can change erlotinib levels.
- Avoid proton-pump inhibitors when possible; antacids and H2 blockers also affect absorption.
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk.
- Smoking lowers erlotinib exposure; grapefruit may alter drug levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.