Gefitinib belongs to a class of medications called tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It blocks the action of abnormal proteins that signal cancer cells to multiply, which stops the growth of malignant tumours. It is used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Gefitinib is available as tablets. It may be taken with or without food. Take Gefitinib with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, you may dissolve the whole tablet in half a glass of plain water. Do not use carbonated water or any other type of drinks. Drop the tablet in water and stir for about 10 minutes, without crushing, until the tablet dissolves, and drink immediately. Rinse the glass with another half a glass of plain water and drink to ensure that no medicine remains in the glass.
Non-small cell lung cancer (EGFR positive)
Adult
Take 250 mg once daily.
People allergic to Gefitinib or any component of the formulation.
Common dosing schedule:
Gefitinib is taken once daily, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Gefitinib may interact with:
Gefitinib may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Gefitinib is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Gefitinib in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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