GILOTRIF (Afatinib)

What is this medication?

GILOTRIF (Afatinib)
Antineoplastic Agent, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Inhibitor, Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor

GILOTRIF (Afatinib) is indicated for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

How does this medication work? 

GILOTRIF (Afatinib) is an irreversible Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGRF) Inhibitor in addition to inhibiting tyrosine kinase autophosphorylation and thus blocking the activity of downstream signalling pathways related to growth and apoptosis suppression. 

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: Take 40mg once daily.

How to Take: It is best to take ≥1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not take a missed dose within 12 hours of the next dose.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting GILOTRIF (Afatinib), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. It is important that your doctor carefully monitor you for cardiovascular toxicity (i.e. left ventricular ejection fraction); signs of dermatologic toxicity (i.e. acneiform rash, erythema, rash); GI toxicity; hepatotoxicity (i.e. elevated liver enzymes); ocular toxicity; pulmonary toxicity (i.e. interstitial lung disease).  In addition, Afatinib should be used with caution in patients with hepatic and renal impairment.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Acneiform eruption, skin rash, paronychia, xeroderma, pruritus, weight loss, electrolyte disturbance (i.e. decrease serum potassium), diarrhea, stomatitis, vomiting, cystitis, lymphocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, rhinorrhea and fever. 

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for GIOTRIF (Afatinib), only common ones.