Afatinib : Uses, Dosage, Side effects, Brands & Price In India

What is Afatinib ?

Afatinib is a targeted anti-cancer medicine used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

It belongs to a group of medicines called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which work by blocking signals that help cancer cells grow.

👉 Doctors usually prescribe Afatinib in patients with EGFR mutation-positive lung cancer.

👉Why Afatinib is Prescribed

Afatinib is commonly used for:

• Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• EGFR mutation-positive lung cancer
• Patients who have not responded to previous treatments

👉 It is often given along with prednisone to reduce side effects.

How Afatinib Works

Cancer cells grow due to abnormal signals from proteins like EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor).

Afatinib blocks these signals.

• Stops Cancer cell growth
• Slows disease progression
• Helps control tumor spread

How to Take Afatinib

• Taken as oral tablet
• Usually once daily (if prescribed)
  

⚠️ Important:

• Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food
• Follow doctor instruction strictly

Available Strengths of Afatinib

• Afatinib 20 Mg
• Afatinib 30 Mg
• Afatinib 40 Mg
  

👉 Dose depends on patient condition and tolerance.

Side Effects of Afatinib

Like all cancer medicines, Afatinib may cause side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea (very common)
• Skin rash or acne
• Mouth sores
• Loss of appetite
• Nail infections

👉 Always inform your doctor if symptoms worsen.

Precautions Before Starting Abiraterone

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Lung disease
• Liver problems
• Kidney Issues
• Any Ongoing Medications
  

Available Brands

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Is Afatinib chemotherapy?

No, it is a targeted therapy, not chemotherapy.

2.Can Afatinib cure lung cancer?

It does not cure cancer but helps control and slow its progression.

3.What is the most common side effect?

Diarrhea is the most common side effect.

References - 

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Afatinib (Giotrif) Prescribing Information.
• National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Guidelines for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).
• DrugBank Online. Afatinib – Mechanism and Clinical Use.
• Drugs.com. Afatinib: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects.