Erlonat Tablet (Erlotinib)
Erlotinib is used to treat metastatic-small cell lung cancer, as first-line treatment, maintenance treatment, or after the failure of one previous chemotherapy. Tarceva is another trade name for Erlotinib. It is also used to treat locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer in combination with another medicine called gemcitabine.
| USA Brand Name | Tarceva |
| Strength | 100 mg, 150 mg |
| Generic Name | Erlotinib |
| Manufacturer | Natco Pharma Ltd |
| Storage | Store Below 30° C |
What is Erlonat Tablet (Erlotinib)?
Erlonat Tablet, containing Erlotinib, is a cancer treatment medicine used primarily for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and pancreatic cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which work by blocking the activity of a protein known as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). By inhibiting EGFR, erlotinib helps to slow the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Take Erlonat Tablet on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after a meal. It is particularly very important to adhere strictly to any advice given by your doctor regarding the period of time within which the particular therapy should be taken as this depends on the state of a person’s health and his/her reaction toward treatment. The regular use of this product should not be discontinued without the advice of a doctor because the improper or overuse of this product can produce severe complications. One may begin to see results in two weeks or two months depending on a given trend and it’s advisable to follow the treatment regimen.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. Partial or severe diarrhea could be experienced, depending on the tolerance level, and you need to take water or visit your doctor if it gets serious. This medicine makes you more sensitive – to sunlight, therefore, you should wear clothes or application of sunscreen if you are exposed to the sun. It is important for you to inform your doctor if you find that you have developed mouth ulcers, changes in vision or breathing problems. Biochemical testing of the liver may be necessary periodically in the course of treatment.
Before starting Erlonat, inform your healthcare team about all other medicines you are taking, as drug interactions are possible. This medicine is not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Both men and women should use effective contraception during treatment to prevent pregnancy. It is also advised to quit smoking, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the medicine. If you need to take an antacid or another medicine, ensure there is at least a two-hour gap after taking medicine.
Precautions
When you begin taking Erlonat, you should tell your doctor if you have liver disease or kidney issues. Ensure that you tell your doctor about all the other medicines you are taking including non-prescription drugs and vitamins. Possible side effects include skin rash or itching, diarrhoea and nausea, although severe side effects should be brought to the attention of the doctor.
Dosage Instructions: Take Erlonat at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating, as food can affect how well the drug is absorbed. Avoid smoking, as it can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
Expert Advice
- Age restriction: Erlotinib is not recommended for children or teenagers under 18.
- Eye care: Avoid contact lenses if you experience dry eyes or any other eye-related issues.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Erlotinib is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can harm the baby. Effective contraception should be used during treatment.
- Warning signs: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe diarrhea, skin blistering, eye problems, or difficulty breathing.
Uses of Erlonat Tablet (Erlotinib)
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Erlotinib is used to treat metastatic NSCLC as a first-line treatment, maintenance therapy, or after the failure of one previous chemotherapy regimen.
- Pancreatic Cancer: It is also used to treat locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic cancer in combination with gemcitabine, another cancer drug.
How Erlonat Works
Erlotinib works by targeting and inhibiting EGFR, a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells. By blocking this protein, the medication helps stop cancer cells from multiplying and spreading.
Common Side Effects
- Skin issues: Dry skin, rash, acne, folliculitis
- Digestive issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, anorexia
- Respiratory issues: Cough, shortness of breath, serious lung infections
- Other: Fatigue, liver function abnormalities, conjunctivitis, weight changes, alopecia, neuropathy, paronychia (nail infection)
FAQs
Q: Can Erlonat be used during pregnancy?
A: Erlonat is not safe during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. Consult your doctor for guidance.
Q: Is Erlonat safe during breastfeeding?
A: Erlonat is not recommended during breastfeeding. If no alternative is available, discuss the risks with your doctor.
Q: Is Erlotinib a chemotherapy drug?
A: No, Erlonat (Erlotinib) is not a traditional chemotherapy drug. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
Q: Is Erlonat FDA-approved?
A: Yes, Erlonat (Erlotinib) is FDA-approved.
Q: Can Erlonat cause neutropenia?
A: Yes, Erlonat may cause neutropenia (low levels of white blood cells).
Q: How long does Erlonat work after one dose?
A: A single dose of Erlonat works for approximately 36 hours.
| Manufacturer | : | Natco Pharma, India |
| Trade Name | : | Tarceva |
| Generic Search | : | Erlotinib |
| Strength | : | 100mg, 150mg |
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