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Erlotinib

Latest prescription information about Erlotinib. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Erlotinib
Pronunciation : er-LOE-ti-nib
Trade Name(s): 
India- Erlocip, Erlotec, Tarseva.
International- Tarceva.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, prescribed for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category D : There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
PO- The recommended daily dose is 100 to 150 mg taken on an empty stomach.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, on an empty stomach.
Special Instruction : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of stomach problem, liver, kidney, or heart disease, dehydration, had radiation therapy, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.
* Avoid exposure to sunlight; otherwise it may cause sunburn easily.
* Monitor liver, kidney or lung function, eye examinations, and blood electrolytes regularly while taking this medication.
* Avoid contact with people who have infections.
Side Effects : 
Most Common - Rash and diarrhea.
General - Fatigue, loss of appetite, itching, pimples, skin inflammation, dry skin, fever, fluid retention and decreased weight.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, indigestion and flatulence.
Musculoskeletal - Bone pain and muscle pain.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing and cough.
Central Nervous System - Depression, dizziness, headache, sleeplessness, anxiety, nerve disease and rigors.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store it at room temperature (25°C).

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