Tarceva (Erlotinib)

Erlotinib is a type of tyrosine kinase receptor, a form of targeted therapy that is used to treat cancers including non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. Tarceva is the brand name under which it is often marketed. It works by blocking proteins on cancer cells to prevent their growth.

Erlotinib is a non-chemotherapy medication used to treat advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. It is taken orally once daily. It suppresses the EGFR protein, a protein that contributes to the growth and development of cancers. It is often used to treat malignant types of cancer that have spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body in patients who have not seen successful results after being treated with a different type of chemotherapy medication.

Nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, mouth sores, dry skin, eye dryness/irritation, and abnormal eyelash growth are all possible side effects of this medication. Making dietary modifications, such as eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, taking anti-nausea medications and focusing on relaxation techniques can help to reduce nausea.

Some patients taking erlotinib may experience irritation or harm to the cornea (clear portion of the eyeball) or changes in their vision when using erlotinib. Notify your healthcare provider if you have eye discomfort, swelling, redness, or changes in your vision, such as blurriness or sensitivity to light.

The recommended daily dosage of TARCEVA for non-small cell lung cancer is 150 mg administered on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meal consumption. The treatment should be continued until the condition progresses or an intolerable level of toxicity arises.

Gefitinib is only advised for patients with an EGFR mutation, regardless of the line of treatment they are receiving. However, erlotinib is also suggested for patients who do not have an EGFR mutation but are receiving second- or third-line therapy.

Erlotinib is a medicine that belongs to a class of medications known as kinase inhibitors. It works by interfering with the activity of abnormal proteins that lead to the spread and growth of cancer in the body.

In HCC827 cells, erlotinib has shown the ability to suppress Akt and ERK phosphorylation, which were previously unaffected. Out of the three erlotinib-resistant cell lines, it was found that ERK phosphorylation in HCC827TR3 was only slightly suppressed.

As a cancer treatment, erlotinib works by binding to the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain proteins of the EFGR and suppresses their activity to inhibit the cancer cells’ growth. As a result, it also suppresses downstream signaling to prevent the tumor’s progression.

The cost of erlotinib oral tablet 25 mg is around $1,388 for a 30-tablet supply, depending on which pharmacy you visit.

It is typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal or snack. Every day, take erlotinib at around the same time. Follow the directions on your drug label carefully and consult with your health care provider or pharmacist if you have any questions.