About afatinib dimaleate
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats certain advanced non-small-cell lung cancers with specific EGFR mutations.
Usual adult dose
Usually 40 mg by mouth once daily, before food; dose may be adjusted for side effects.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash and acne-like inflammation
- Mouth sores
- Nail inflammation
Important warnings
- Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration and kidney problems.
- Can cause serious lung inflammation, liver injury, or severe skin reactions.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
- Treatment requires testing for qualifying EGFR mutations.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby; pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the final dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the final dose.
Interactions
- P-glycoprotein inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, may increase afatinib exposure.
- P-glycoprotein inducers, such as rifampin, may reduce afatinib exposure.
- Medicines that raise stomach pH, including proton-pump inhibitors, may reduce absorption.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.