Tarceva

Generic name: Erlotinib hydrochloride

What is Tarceva?

Tarceva is used to treat advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is either only in the lung (localized) or spread throughout the body (metastatic).

It is also used in cancer-patients who have not responded to other types of chemotherapy (medicine used to kill cancer).

What is the most important information I should know about Tarceva?

Some patients taking Tarceva have developed interstitial lung disease (ILD). ILD is a serious and life-threatening lung disease. The symptoms of ILD are a sudden or worsening cough, or shortness of breath and dry cough.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take Tarceva. Women who can get pregnant should avoid pregnancy while taking Tarceva. Birth control should be used during Tarceva therapy and for 2 weeks after stopping Tarceva.

Who should not take Tarceva?

You should not begin treatment with Tarceva if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tarceva?

Tell your doctor about your complete medical history, as well as problems that you are currently having, such as liver problems. Tarceva may cause liver damage called hepatotoxicity. If you have or had bleeding problems in your stomach or intestines such as ulcers, or you are pregnant, are trying to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, tell your doctor before beginning therapy with Tarceva.

Also, talk to your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking to prevent a harmful interaction with Tarceva.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

The usual dosage for NSCLC: The recommended daily dose of Tarceva is 150 milligrams (mg) taken at least one hour before or two hours after eating.

The usual dosage for pancreatic cancer: The recommended daily dose of Tarceva is 100 mg taken at least one hour before or two hours after eating, in combination with gemcitabine.

How should I take Tarceva?

Take prescribed dosage one hour before or two hours after eating.

What should I avoid while taking Tarceva?

Women who are taking Tarceva are advised to avoid pregnancy by taking the appropriate precautions during and 2 weeks after the treatment.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tarceva?

Patients on Tarceva therapy and taking blood thinners (Coumadin) or other medicines called anticoagulants should have regular blood tests and watch for bleeding problems.

What are the possible side effects of Tarceva?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: Cough, diarrhea, dry skin, eye problems, infection, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, rash, shortness of breath/trouble breathing, stomach pain, swollen mouth, tiredness, vomiting

Call your doctor right away if you have: Eye irritation, loss of appetite, nausea, new or worse trouble breathing or cough, severe or non-stop diarrhea, vomiting

Can I receive Tarceva if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tarceva is not recommended if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This drug may cause harm to your unborn child or pass into breast milk.

How should I store Tarceva?

Store at room temperature.