Giotrif Description

Giotrif is a cancer treatment drug. The active ingredient in Giotrif is Afatinib, a type of cancer medication known as a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Giotrif may be prescribed to treat metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor mutations. Giotrif is not a chemotherapy drug, but rather a type of medication known as “targeted therapy”.

How Giotrif Works

Giotrif blocks the growth of tumor cells in several ways. It blocks the action of tyrosine kinases which results in the inability of these “chemical messengers” to send growth signals to the tumor cells. This prevents the cancer cells from growing and multiplying.

Giotrif also targets and blocks the activity of a specific group of proteins called epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) which are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Your doctor will check your cancer cells to see if they have these receptors; cancers that have these receptors are called EGFR-TK positive. Giotrif should not be prescribed for people with EGFR-negative tumors.

How to Take Giotrif

Giotrif is prescribed as an oral tablet, to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Taking Giotrif with a meal may reduce its effectiveness. It should be taken at least one hour before or at least two hours after eating. Your doctor will prescribe the suitable Giotrif dosage for you.

Before You Take Giotrif

Before you begin taking Giotrif, make certain your doctor is aware of any allergies or medical conditions you have and any medications you take, including non-prescription medication, vitamins, and supplements. Some medications may affect the efficacy of Giotrif or produce undesired results or side effects. Consult with your doctor before taking any new medication while undergoing treatment with Giotrif.

Giotrif Precautions

Severe dehydration can occur during treatment with Giotrif if you experience diarrhea or vomiting. You are encouraged to drink lots of water while taking Giotrif. If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding, you should speak with your doctor before taking Giotrif.

Possible Giotrif Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Mouth Sores
• Dry Mouth
• Infections of the nails, known as paronychia
• Skin conditions resembling acne

Other Drugs Similar to Giotrif

• Tagrisso
• Tarceva