This medication is used to treat lung cancer. Tarceva (Erlotinib) is used after other chemotherapy drugs have not been effective. It works by slowing cancer cell growth.
TARCEVA tablets for oral administration are available in three dosage strengths containing erlotinib hydrochloride (27.3 mg, 109.3 mg and 163.9 mg) equivalent to 25 mg, 100 mg and 150 mg erlotinib and the following inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. The tablets also contain trace amounts of color additives, including FD&C Yellow #6 (25 mg only) for product identification.
How to use Tarceva Oral :
-Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, usually once daily, or as directed by your doctor. Do not take erlotinib within 2 hours of taking an antacid (liquid or tablets). Doing so can prevent the absorption of the medication.
-Use this medication regularly. Remember to take it at the same time every day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often without your doctor's approval. Your condition will not improve any faster and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.
-Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle or break the tablets of this medication
The side effects of tarceva:
-Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mouth sores, dry skin, or eye irritation may occur. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen the chance of nausea. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
-Diarrhea is a common side effect. Drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor to reduce your risk of losing too much body water. Your doctor may prescribe anti-diarrhea medication (e.g., loperamide) to control your symptoms. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop: severe or persistent diarrhea, signs of dehydration (e.g., dizziness, decreased amount of urine).
-A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
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