In this article, we will discuss about Erlotinib (Dosage Overview). So, let’s get started.
Indications
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) is indicated for
The treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations as detected by an FDA-approved test receiving first-line, maintenance, or second or greater line treatment after progression following at least one prior chemotherapy regimen.
Limitations of use:
• Safety and efficacy of Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) have not been established in patients with NSCLC whose tumors have other EGFR mutations.
• Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) is not recommended for use in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy.
Pancreatic Cancer
Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) in combination with gemcitabine is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Dosage
Selection of Patients with Metastatic NSCLC
Select patients for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC with Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) based on the presence of EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21
(L858R) substitution mutations in tumor or plasma specimens. If these mutations are not detected in a plasma specimen, test tumor tissue if available.
Recommended Dose – NSCLC
The recommended daily dose of Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) for NSCLC is 150 mg taken on an empty stomach, i.e. at least one hour before or two hours after the ingestion of food. Treatment should continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.
Recommended Dose – Pancreatic Cancer
The recommended daily dose of Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) for pancreatic cancer is 100 mg taken once daily in combination with gemcitabine. Take Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) on an empty stomach, i.e., at least one hour before or two hours after the ingestion of food. Treatment should continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.
Adverse Reactions
The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with Erlotinib (TARCEVA®) from a pooled analysis in patients with NSCLC across all approved lines of therapy, with and without EGFR mutations, and in patients with pancreatic cancer were rash, diarrhea, anorexia, fatigue, dyspnea, cough, nausea, and vomiting.