How It Works
Erlotinib blocks a substance called the
epidermal growth factor that helps some cancer cells grow and reproduce.
Erlotinib is a medication that is taken by mouth (oral).
Why It Is Used
Erlotinib slows or stops the growth
and spread of cancer cells in the body. It is used to treat non-small cell lung
cancer that has spread (metastasized) outside the lung. It is used after a
person's cancer has not responded to the chemotherapy medications that are
tried first for non-small cell lung cancer.
How Well It Works
Erlotinib is an effective antitumor
medication. However, the type and extent of a cancer determines how effectively
this medication slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Side Effects
Possible serious side effects of
erlotinib include:
- Allergic reactions. Signs of allergic reaction can include
trouble breathing; swelling or closing of the throat; swollen face, tongue, or
lips; or hives.
- Eye pain or irritation.
- Severe or ongoing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
In rare cases, erlotinib can cause a serious lung problem
called interstitial lung disease. Report any shortness of breath or cough
immediately to your oncologist.
Less serious side effects may
include:
- Rash.
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea and vomiting (rare).
- Feeling of weakness.
If a blood thinner (anticoagulant) such as Coumadin is also
being taken, blood clotting tests should be monitored closely to be sure there
is not an increased risk of serious bleeding.
See Drug Reference
for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all
systems.)
What To Think About
Erlotinib should be administered
only under the supervision of a
medical oncologist.
Erlotinib can affect
your ability to have children. You may not be able to get pregnant or father a
child after taking this medication. Discuss fertility with your doctor before
starting treatment.
Erlotinib can cause birth defects. Do not use
this medication if you are pregnant or wish to become pregnant or to father a
child while you are taking it.
Medications can be used to prevent
or reduce nausea and vomiting side effects of chemotherapy.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) 
(What is a PDF document?)
to help you understand this medication.
References
Other Works Consulted
Credits
| Author | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Editor | Maria Essig |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology |
| Last Updated | June 4, 2008 |
