Generic Name: afatinib
Drug Class: Targeted Therapy Medications
Company: Boehringer Ingelheim
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: No
Drug Indication
Gilotrif is a kinase inhibitor approved for people with metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations who are being treated for the first time or who have experienced disease progression on chemotherapy.
General Info
Gilotrif interferes with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a protein that plays a role in cancer cell growth and development of blood vessels that feed tumors.
The LUX-Lung 3 trial showed that Gilotrif delayed disease progression in people with EGFR mutation-positive metastatic NSCLC being treated for the first time, but it did not improve overall survival. The LUX-Lung 8 study showed that the drug improved both progression-free and overall survival in people with previously treated metastatic squamous NSCLC. Gilotrif was first approved in 2013.
Dosage
Dosing Info:
Gilotrif is a once-daily pill that should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
Side Effects
Common side effects include diarrhea, decreased appetite, nausea, skin rash, acne, mouth sores, nail changes, dry skin and itching. Potential serious side effects may include severe diarrhea leading to dehydration, severe skin reactions, lung and liver problems, gastrointestinal perforation and inflammation of the corneas in the eye. Gilotrif may cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy.
For More Info: https://www.gilotrif.com
Patient Assistance Program Info: https://www.gilotrif.com
Last Reviewed: October 23, 2019
