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Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Giotrif® Cancer-related

Afatinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Afatinib cause?

  • Diarrhea (may occur initially)
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mouth sores
  • Acne, rash, dry skin, itching, skin redness
    Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight as it may worsen the rash or acne, or cause sunburn.​ Use sunscreen and covered clothing if you need to be un​​​der the sun.
  • Nail infection

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Diarrhea more than 4 times a day and not controlled by anti-diarrheal medicines
  • Severe skin peeling or blistering
  • Yellowing of the eyes of skin, tea-colored urine, severe right-sided stomach ache or unusual bruising
  • Rapid or abnormal heartbeat, unusual tiredness, swelling of the hands and feet, or sudden weight gain
  • Severe eye discomfort, sensitivity to light, blurred vision
  • Fever, severe cough and shortness of breath

Before taking Afatinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
    • Have any other medical conditions
    • Are taking any long-term medicines or supplements
    • Have any history of eye problems or are using contact lenses
  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after stopping treatment. Inform your doctor if you or your partner suspect or plan to get pregnant.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Afatinib ?

Afatinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 3/19/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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