What it is used for
- Treating advanced non-small-cell lung cancer with activating EGFR mutations
- Treating selected advanced squamous-cell lung cancers that progressed after previous treatment
- Use as monotherapy under oncology-specialist supervision
How it is used
- Swallow the tablet with water on an empty stomach as directed by the oncology specialist
- If swallowing is difficult, the tablet may be dispersed in still water exactly as the leaflet directs without crushing it
- Do not change or stop treatment yourself; the specialist may interrupt or adjust it for side effects
- Start the anti-diarrhoeal treatment supplied by your team at the first sign and contact them if diarrhoea persists or becomes severe
Possible side effects
- Diarrhoea that can become severe and cause dehydration and kidney problems
- Rash or acne-like spots, dry skin and itching
- A sore or ulcerated mouth and reduced appetite
- Inflammation around the nails
- Changes in liver function or, rarely, lung inflammation
Who should not use it
- Allergy to afatinib or any ingredient in the product
Before and while using it
- Contact the oncology team early for diarrhoea because dehydration can become serious
- Report new or worsening breathlessness, cough or fever immediately because of possible lung inflammation
- Moisturise and protect skin from sunlight; rash may need early treatment
- Tell your clinician about eye pain, redness, light sensitivity or a vision change
- Liver monitoring and heart or kidney assessment are needed when risk factors are present
- Exposure can be higher in people with low body weight, women or kidney impairment, requiring closer monitoring
Medicine interactions
- Some epilepsy and tuberculosis medicines and St John's wort can reduce its effect
- Some medicines that inhibit drug transporters can increase exposure and may require separation or a plan adjustment
- Tell the oncology team about every medicine and supplement before starting
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- It may harm an unborn baby; use effective contraception during treatment and for the period specified afterwards, and tell the oncology team immediately if pregnancy is possible
- Do not breastfeed during treatment
How to store it
- Keep in the original package to protect from moisture and light and out of children's reach
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.