Contents
Overview
Gefitinib is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is often overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells. By inhibiting EGFR, gefitinib can help to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells. Erlotinib, another EGFR inhibitor, is often used in conjunction with gefitinib to treat patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The development of gefitinib was a major breakthrough in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, and it has been shown to be effective in patients with specific EGFR mutations, such as those with exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitutions.
💊 Treatment and Administration
Gefitinib is typically administered orally, once daily, and is available in tablet form. The recommended dose is 250mg per day, and treatment is usually continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. FDA approval for gefitinib was granted in 2003, and it has since become a standard treatment option for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. However, resistance to gefitinib can develop over time, often due to secondary mutations in the EGFR gene, such as the T790M mutation.
📊 Clinical Trials and Efficacy
Clinical trials have shown that gefitinib is effective in treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those with specific EGFR mutations. The IPASS trial, which compared gefitinib to carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, found that gefitinib was associated with improved progression-free survival and overall response rate. World Health Organization has included gefitinib on its List of Essential Medicines, recognizing its importance as a treatment option for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
🌎 Global Availability and Access
Gefitinib is available in many countries around the world, including the United States, Europe, and Japan. It is marketed by AstraZeneca and Teva, and is available as a generic medication. However, access to gefitinib can be limited in some countries, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, due to high costs and limited availability. Efforts to improve access to gefitinib and other cancer treatments are ongoing, including initiatives by World Health Organization and other global health organizations.
Key Facts
- Year
- 2003
- Origin
- United Kingdom
- Category
- chronic-conditions
- Type
- medication
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gefitinib used to treat?
Gefitinib is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer, particularly in patients with specific EGFR mutations. It is also being investigated as a treatment for other types of cancer, including breast and pancreatic cancer. National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society provide more information on the use of gefitinib in cancer treatment.
How does gefitinib work?
Gefitinib works by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is often overexpressed in cancer cells. This helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells. University of California, San Francisco and Harvard University have conducted research on the mechanism of action of gefitinib.
What are the side effects of gefitinib?
The side effects of gefitinib can include diarrhea, rash, and fatigue. In rare cases, gefitinib can cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage or interstitial lung disease. Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic provide more information on the side effects of gefitinib.
Is gefitinib available as a generic medication?
Yes, gefitinib is available as a generic medication. It is marketed by AstraZeneca and Teva, and is available in many countries around the world. World Health Organization has included gefitinib on its List of Essential Medicines.
What is the current research on gefitinib?
Current research on gefitinib is focused on investigating its use in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Researchers are also working to develop new treatments that can overcome resistance to gefitinib. National Institutes of Health and American Association for Cancer Research provide more information on the current research on gefitinib.