Why is this medication prescribed?

Tarceva (erlotinib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of a specific protein involved in the growth of cancer cells.

• For lung cancer: Tarceva is typically prescribed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body or for locally advanced, unresectable NSCLC.
• For pancreatic cancer: Tarceva is used in combination with another chemotherapy drug called gemcitabine for the treatment of locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic cancer.

How should this medicine be used?

Tarceva (erlotinib) is a prescription medication, and it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for its use. The following are general guidelines, but it’s essential to remember that individual circumstances can vary, and your doctor may provide specific instructions based on your medical condition:

• Dosage: Take Tarceva exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dosage may vary depending on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors.
• Administration: Tarceva is typically taken orally once a day. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Timing: Take Tarceva at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. You can take it with or without food.
• Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Generally, if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is more than 12 hours, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Interactions with Food and Drink: Tarceva can be taken with or without food. However, it’s advisable to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment, as they may interact with the medication.
• Precautions: Do not change the dosage or stop taking Tarceva without consulting your healthcare provider. It’s important to continue the medication as prescribed, even if you feel well, to maximize its effectiveness.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may conduct regular tests, including blood tests, to monitor your response to Tarceva and check for any potential side effects. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Concurrent Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Tarceva with your doctor.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about the proper use of Tarceva. If you experience side effects or have concerns about the medication, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Tarceva (erlotinib) is primarily used for the treatment of certain types of lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. However, it’s essential to note that medication usage can evolve, and new indications may emerge over time. Always consult with your healthcare provider or check more recent sources for the latest information on the uses of Tarceva.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Tarceva, and your healthcare provider will consider various factors before prescribing this medication. Here are some general precautions associated with Tarceva:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to erlotinib or any other medications. Tarceva may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing liver or kidney conditions. Adjustments to the dosage may be necessary in such cases.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Tarceva may cause or exacerbate ILD, a serious lung condition. Inform your doctor if you have a history of lung disease or if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or fever.
• Skin Reactions: Tarceva can cause skin reactions, including rash and dry skin. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience severe skin reactions, as dosage adjustments or treatment modifications may be needed.
• Eye Problems: Some patients may experience eye irritation or other eye problems while taking Tarceva. Report any changes in vision or eye-related symptoms to your doctor.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Tarceva may harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It’s also essential to avoid breastfeeding while taking Tarceva.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking, as certain drugs may interact with Tarceva.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may monitor your liver function, kidney function, and other parameters regularly to ensure the safe and effective use of Tarceva.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, attend scheduled check-ups, and promptly report any side effects or concerns during the course of Tarceva treatment. Individual patient circumstances can vary, so personalized advice from your healthcare team is crucial.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Tarceva. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, as proper nutrition can play a role in supporting overall well-being during cancer treatment. Discuss any concerns or specific dietary recommendations with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Tarceva, follow these general guidelines:

• If it’s within 12 hours of the missed dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it’s more than 12 hours: Skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose at the regular time.
• Do not double up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tarceva (erlotinib) may cause various side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects that are not listed here. If you are prescribed Tarceva, your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and provide guidance on managing potential side effects. Common side effects of Tarceva include:

• Skin Rash: A rash, often on the face and upper body, is a common side effect. It can range from mild to severe.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another common side effect. It’s important to stay well-hydrated, and your doctor may prescribe medications to manage diarrhea.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Tarceva.
• Loss of Appetite: Some individuals may experience a decreased appetite while taking Tarceva.
• Nausea: Nausea and vomiting can occur, but these symptoms are generally mild.
• Mouth Sores: Some people may develop sores or ulcers in the mouth.
• Dry Skin: Tarceva can cause dryness of the skin.
• Infections: There is an increased risk of developing infections, and you should promptly report any signs of infection to your healthcare provider.
• Changes in Liver Function: Tarceva can affect liver function, and your doctor may monitor liver enzymes through blood tests.
• Eye Irritation: Some individuals may experience eye-related symptoms, such as irritation or sensitivity to light.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): While rare, Tarceva has been associated with ILD, a serious lung condition. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or fever.

It’s crucial to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing symptoms or may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. In some cases, dose modifications or temporary interruptions may be recommended to address side effects. Remember that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and your healthcare provider will provide you with comprehensive information based on your medical history and individual response to the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Tarceva:

• Storage: Store Tarceva at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Follow the specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets.
• Do Not Share Medication: Do not share Tarceva with others, even if they have a similar condition. It is prescribed based on individual medical circumstances.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Follow local regulations for medication disposal or ask your pharmacist for guidance. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of a suspected overdose or emergency, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include severe diarrhea, rash, or other severe side effects. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room for assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for regular check-ups and monitoring. Your doctor will assess your response to Tarceva and may adjust your treatment plan if needed.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and surgeons, that you are taking Tarceva. Some procedures may need to be delayed or adjusted based on your treatment plan.
• Lab Tests: Your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor your liver function and other parameters. Attend these appointments as scheduled.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Tarceva. It’s advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit products during treatment.
• Birth Control: If you are of childbearing potential, discuss contraception with your doctor, as Tarceva can harm an unborn baby.
• Patient Assistance Programs: Check with your healthcare provider or the pharmaceutical company for information on patient assistance programs that may help with the cost of Tarceva.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the potential side effects of Tarceva and how to manage them. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist. If you have any concerns or questions about Tarceva, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team for personalized guidance.