Geftistar 250mg Tablet

1. Product Introduction:

Geftistar 250mg Tablet is a targeted oral anti-cancer medication that contains Gefitinib, a drug classified under epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It is primarily used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly in patients whose tumors exhibit mutations in the EGFR gene.

Gefitinib works by blocking the action of EGFR, a protein on the surface of cancer cells that helps them grow and divide. By inhibiting this protein, Geftistar slows or stops the proliferation of cancer cells, especially in patients who have specific EGFR mutations. It offers a more personalized and effective approach compared to traditional chemotherapy in certain patients.

Geftistar 250mg is usually prescribed as a once-daily oral tablet and is commonly used in advanced or metastatic stages of lung cancer.

2. Uses of This Medicine:

Geftistar 250mg Tablet is primarily indicated for:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
  Used in the treatment of advanced or metastatic NSCLC, especially in patients with activating mutations in the EGFR gene. It may be used as a first-line treatment or after prior chemotherapy.

• Targeted Cancer Therapy:
  Geftistar is used in precision medicine approaches where genetic testing confirms the presence of EGFR mutations. It is not effective in tumors that lack this mutation.

• Maintenance Therapy:
  In some cases, it may be used as maintenance therapy to prevent cancer progression after initial treatment success.

3. Benefits of This Medicine:

Geftistar 250mg Tablet provides several benefits, particularly when prescribed appropriately based on genetic testing:

• Targeted Therapy for EGFR-Mutant NSCLC:
  Geftistar works specifically in patients whose lung cancer cells carry mutations in the EGFR gene, offering improved outcomes compared to traditional chemotherapy.

• Improved Progression-Free Survival:
  Clinical studies show that Gefitinib significantly delays the progression of cancer in EGFR-mutant NSCLC compared to standard chemotherapy.

• Better Tolerability:
  Geftistar is generally better tolerated than many chemotherapy drugs, with fewer severe systemic side effects.

• Oral Administration:
  Being a tablet, Geftistar allows patients the convenience of home treatment without the need for hospital-based infusions.

• Symptom Relief:
  Patients may experience relief from symptoms like cough, breathlessness, and fatigue as the tumor burden decreases.

• Customized Treatment:
  Gefitinib is part of the personalized medicine approach, ensuring that only those patients who are likely to benefit from the drug receive it.

4. Side Effects:

Like all medications, Geftistar 250mg Tablet may cause side effects. However, not all patients experience them, and many side effects are manageable with proper care.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea

• Rash

• Acne

• Dry skin

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Weakness or fatigue

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Interstitial Lung Disease (rare but serious lung inflammation)

• Liver enzyme elevation (requires regular monitoring)

• Eye problems (dry eyes, conjunctivitis)

• Severe skin reactions

• Gastrointestinal perforation (very rare)

Precautions:

• Inform your doctor if you have existing lung, liver, or kidney problems.

• Avoid using in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly advised.

• Regular liver function and lung assessments may be required during treatment.

• Sun protection is advised due to increased skin sensitivity.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1. What is Geftistar 250mg Tablet used for?
A1. It is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with specific EGFR mutations. It helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Q2. How does Gefitinib work?
A2. Gefitinib blocks EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), a protein that helps cancer cells grow. By inhibiting it, the drug reduces cancer cell growth.

Q3. Can Geftistar be used for all lung cancer patients?
A3. No. It is effective only in patients with EGFR gene mutations. Your doctor may recommend a genetic test before starting treatment.

Q4. How should I take Geftistar 250mg?
A4. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Q5. What happens if I miss a dose?
A5. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose.