What is erlotinib?
Erlotinib is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their spread in the body.
Erlotinib is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. Erlotinib is also used in combination with other cancer medicine to treat pancreatic cancer.
Erlotinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about erlotinib?
Do not take erlotinib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control while you are taking this medication and for at least 2 weeks after your treatment ends.
Before taking erlotinib, tell your doctor if you have lung problems (other than lung cancer), kidney or liver disease, if you are dehydrated, or if you smoke.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with erlotinib. Visit your doctor regularly.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Erlotinib can cause skin rash, dryness, or other irritation. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. Avoid using skin products that can cause dryness or irritation.
Stop taking erlotinib and call your doctor at once if you have new or worsening lung problems (chest pain, dry cough with fever, wheezing, feeling short of breath), chest pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness, eye pain or irritation, rapid weight gain, urinating less than usual or not at all, severe or ongoing diarrhea or vomiting, coughing up blood, black or bloody stools, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, mouth sores, or a severe skin rash.
There are many other drugs that can interact with erlotinib. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking erlotinib?
You should not take erlotinib if you are allergic to it.
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests:
FDA pregnancy category D. Do not take erlotinib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control while you are taking this medication and for at least 2 weeks after your treatment ends.
It is not known whether erlotinib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking erlotinib.