Does afatinib, the first-line treatment for lung cancer, have few side effects?

The Indian version of the first-line lung cancer treatment drug afatinib has similar side effects to the domestic version, and there is no saying that which one has smaller side effects. During treatment with afatinib, patients should strictly follow the doctor's instructions and take the medication on time and in accordance with the dose to avoid improper medication causing adverse reactions and harming health.

Afatinib drug introduction

is an irreversible ErbB family blocker that acts on the tyrosine kinases of these proteins. In 2013, it was approved by the FDA and EMA for the treatment of adult patients with advanced EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer.

Comparison of the side effects of the Indian version of the first-line lung cancer treatment drug afatinib and the domestic version

Afatinib is an oral targeted drug. Whether it is a generic drug produced in India or a domestic original drug, its main active ingredients and pharmacological mechanism of action are the same, so theoretically their side effects are similar. Rash, acne, diarrhea, and stomatitis were the most common adverse events.

The price of afatinib in India

Afatinib produced by Natco Pharmaceutical Factory in India is priced at about 750$-850$ in a box of 40mg*28 tablets.

Afatinib side effects

1. Gastrointestinal reactions: Diarrhea is the most common side effect and often requires special management strategies, such as adjusting drug dosage and using antidiarrheal drugs. Other gastrointestinal effects include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

2. Skin reaction: Patients may develop rash, acne-like rash, dry skin, paronychia, stomatitis and other symptoms.

3. Respiratory system: Pulmonary complications such as interstitial lung disease (ILD) occasionally occur. If you have symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cough or fever, you should seek medical treatment immediately.

4. Abnormal liver function: Afatinib may cause damage to liver function. Patients need to monitor liver function indicators regularly. If there are any abnormalities, they should communicate with their doctor in time.

5. Nervous system side effects: including dysgeusia, headache, fatigue, etc.

6. Urinary system: Some patients may experience cystitis or kidney damage.

7. Eye problems: Eye discomfort such as conjunctivitis or keratitis may occur.

8. Cardiotoxicity: A very small number of patients may have abnormal cardiac function.

9. Blood system: It may cause abnormal blood cell counts, including anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia.

10. Other side effects: such as edema, muscle spasm, fatigue, increased risk of infection, etc.

Measures for dealing with side effects

1. Diarrhea: Patients can start using antidiarrheal drugs, such as loperamide, as directed by their doctor in the early stages of medication. In terms of diet, pay attention to avoid eating greasy, spicy and lactose-containing foods, and take oral rehydration salts or intravenous infusions when necessary.

2. Rash, acne-like rash: Keep the skin clean and dry, and wear loose and breathable clothing. Also use gentle skin care products and avoid harsh cosmetics or detergents.

3. Stomatitis: If afatinib causes stomatitis, the patient should strengthen oral hygiene, brush teeth frequently and rinse mouth. Use fluoride mouthwash and avoid eating foods that are too hot, too hard, too sour, or too spicy.

4. Abnormal liver function: Monitor liver function indicators regularly. It may be necessary to temporarily stop or adjust the drug dosage according to the doctor's advice, and supplement it with hepatoprotective treatment.

5. Cardiotoxicity: If the patient develops symptoms such as palpitations and chest tightness during treatment, he or she should seek medical attention promptly. An electrocardiogram, echocardiogram and other examinations may be required, and the treatment plan should be adjusted according to the doctor's recommendations.

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