Iressa

Drugs

Generic Name: Gefitinib
Product Name: Iressa

Indication of Iressa
Action of Iressa
Dose Advice of Iressa
Schedule of Iressa
Common side effects of Iressa
Uncommon side effects of Iressa
Reference

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Indication of Iressa:

Gefitinib is used in the treatment of patients with metastatic or advanced non-small cell lung cancer who have previously been treated with chemotherapy.

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Action of Iressa:

Gefitinib inhibits a molecule known as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase. Tyrosine kinases are a group of enzymes involved in carrying messages. EGFRs are found on tumours that are derived from epithelial cells (cells that line body surfaces and cavities) and receive the message to grow from epithelial growth factors.

Inhibition of EGFR tyrosine kinase means that the message is no longer delivered, and the growth of the tumour is suppressed. Gefitinib also enhances the antineoplastic activity of other chemotherapeutic agents, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy.

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Dose Advice of Iressa:

1 x 250mg tablet daily.

Tablet may be taken with or without food.

Tablet may be dissolved in water (only) and drunk if preferred.

Patients suffering severe adverse reactions (diarrhoea or skin reactions) should have therapy ceased for 14 days before reinstitution of the 250mg dose.

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