Gefticip 250mg Tablet 10’s

1. Product Introduction:

Gefticip 250mg Tablet is an oral chemotherapy medicine containing Gefitinib, a targeted therapy drug used in the treatment of certain types of lung cancer. It belongs to a class of medications known as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Gefitinib specifically works by blocking the activity of the EGFR protein, which plays a key role in the growth and survival of cancer cells.

Gefticip is manufactured by Cipla and is available in tablet form for convenient oral administration. It is primarily indicated for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially in patients with specific mutations in the EGFR gene. By interfering with the signals that promote the growth of cancer cells, Gefticip slows down or stops the progression of the disease.

This medicine should only be used under the guidance and prescription of an oncologist or cancer specialist, with regular monitoring through imaging and blood tests to assess treatment response and manage any side effects.

2. Uses of Gefticip 250mg Tablet:

Gefticip is mainly prescribed for the following condition:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
  Specifically in patients whose tumors have EGFR mutations. It is used as a first-line treatment or in cases where the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body.

Note: EGFR mutation testing is usually performed before starting therapy to ensure the suitability of Gefitinib.

In some cases, Gefticip may be prescribed off-label or in clinical trials for other cancers involving EGFR overexpression, although these uses are still under research and not officially approved.

3. Benefits of Gefticip 250mg Tablet:

• Targeted Action:
  Unlike traditional chemotherapy that affects both healthy and cancerous cells, Gefticip precisely targets the EGFR protein in cancer cells, reducing damage to normal tissues.

• Improved Survival and Quality of Life:
  For patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC, Gefticip has been shown to significantly delay cancer progression, providing better disease control and extended survival time.

• Convenient Oral Dosage:
  Gefticip is taken as a once-daily tablet, allowing patients to continue treatment from the comfort of their home, reducing hospital visits compared to IV chemotherapy.

• Better Tolerability:
  Compared to conventional chemotherapy, Gefticip generally has fewer and more manageable side effects, allowing patients to maintain daily activities and routines.

• Effective in EGFR Mutation-Positive Patients:
  In patients with confirmed EGFR mutations, Gefitinib has demonstrated higher response rates and longer progression-free survival.

4. Side Effects:

Like all anti-cancer medications, Gefticip 250mg Tablet may cause side effects. These can vary in intensity and are often manageable with supportive care or dose adjustment.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea

• Skin rash or acne-like eruptions

• Dry skin

• Nausea and vomiting

• Weakness and fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Mouth sores

• Itching

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Interstitial lung disease (ILD): A rare but serious inflammation of lung tissue. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, cough, and fever.

• Liver function abnormalities: Elevated liver enzymes may occur and require regular monitoring.

• Eye irritation: Including redness, pain, or dry eyes.

• Nail changes: Cracking or inflammation around the nails (paronychia).

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation (rare): Report abdominal pain or black stools immediately.

Patients must report any persistent or severe symptoms to their doctor promptly. Routine monitoring is essential to detect any adverse effects early.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1. How does Gefticip 250mg Tablet work?
A1. Gefticip contains Gefitinib, which blocks the action of the EGFR tyrosine kinase enzyme. This prevents cancer cells from receiving signals to grow and divide, thereby slowing the progression of cancer.

Q2. Who can take Gefticip?
A2. Gefticip is typically prescribed for patients with non-small cell lung cancer that has specific EGFR gene mutations. A molecular test is usually required to confirm eligibility for this treatment.

Q3. How should I take Gefticip?
A3. Take Gefticip once daily with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole with water and do not crush or chew it.

Q4. What happens if I miss a dose?
A4. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up to make up for a missed one.

Q5. Can Gefticip be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A5. No. Gefticip is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential harm to the baby. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for a period after discontinuation.