Brand Name: Tykerb
Generic Name: Lapatinib
Manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline
Dosage Form: Tablet
Strength: 250mg
Composition: Lapatinib
Indication: Breast cancer
Packaging: 30 tablets
Storage: Store at room temperature
Overview
Tykerb (Lapatinib) tablet is used in the treatment of Breast cancer. It belongs to a class of medications known as antineoplastics. This medicine works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It is important to take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended dose of Tykerb tablet is decided by a doctor according to your previous medical condition and response to the treatment. Do not stop the use of Imatib tablets without consulting with your doctor. If you experience any signs and symptoms while receiving this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.
Pharmacodynamics
Lapatinib is a small molecule and a member of the 4-anilinoquinazoline class of kinase inhibitors. It retained significant activity against breast cancer cell lines selected for long-term growth in the trastuzumab-containing medium in vitro. These in vitro findings suggest non–cross-resistance between these two agents. Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells (with ER [Estrogen Receptor] and PgR [Progesterone Receptor]) that coexpress the HER2 tend to be resistant to established endocrine therapies. Similarly, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells that initially lack EGFR or HER2 upregulate these receptor proteins as the tumor becomes resistant to endocrine therapy.
Usage
Tykerb is an anti-cancer medication that is also used in the treatment of a certain type of Breast cancer (HER2-positive). Take this medicine on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after the meals. Tykerb tablet works against the HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor protein) receptors and EGFRs (epidermal growth factor receptor) which are responsible for the over-proliferation of cells. Do not take this medicine in the wrong way as it may lead to some severe side effects. It is advisable not to change your regular dosing schedule without taking suggestions from your doctor.
Interactions
Tykerb tablets can interact with other medications and it may increase the risk for side effects. Don’t forget to disclose and discuss your previous medical history with the doctor.
Medicine Interactions
- Digoxin
- Amiodarone
- Ivabradine
- Methadone
- Cisapride
- Teriflunomide
Disease Interactions
- Cardiac dysfunction
- Liver impairment
- Pulmonary toxicity
- Lung impairment
- Dermatologic toxicities
Alcohol Interaction
- Interaction with alcohol is unknown. Please consult your doctor before consuming alcohol.
Contraindications
- Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Lapatinib.
- Tykerb (Lapatinib) medicine is not recommended in patients known to be hypersensitive.
Substitutes
- Libset
- Herlapsa
Side Effects
This medicine may cause some common side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of the Tykerb tablets with the doctor before starting the treatment.
Common Side Effects
- Joint pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pale skin
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Severe diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Stomatitis
- Weight gain
- Loss of appetite
- Rash
- Insomnia
- Liver damage
- Vomiting
- Breathing problems
- Cough
- Increased bilirubin in the blood
- Mucosal inflammation
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Heartburn
- Loss of strength
- Indigestion
- Blistering
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Nose bleeds
- Dehydration
Note – Please consult your medical practitioner if any side effects occur.
Dosage
Take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop or skip your regular dosing schedule.
Missed Dose
- It is advisable not to miss a dose. If you miss a scheduled dose of Tykerb tablets, contact your doctor immediately.
Overdose
- In case of an overdose of Tykerb tablets, the doctor will provide emergency medical treatment.
Warnings
Before starting treatment with Tykerb medicine, please inform your doctor about your previous medical history. If you experience any signs and symptoms while receiving this medication, do not ignore those symptoms because it may lead to higher risk.
- Contraception
- Use suitable methods of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.
Warnings For Female
- Pregnancy
- Do not use Tykerb medicine if you are planning to become pregnant. Avoid this medication at the time of pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding
- This medicine is not recommended in breastfeeding unless it is required. Please consult with your doctor before starting treatment with this medication.
Precautions
- Close monitoring of cardiac dysfunction is required while having treatment with this medicine.
- This medicine should be used with caution in patients who have prolongation of QT interval.
- Inform your doctor if you experience any side effects like – dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat, and vomiting.
- Regular monitoring of platelet count is required during treatment with this medicine.
- Tykerb medicine may cause severe diarrhea in some patients.
- Close monitoring of liver and kidney function is required while receiving treatment with this medicine.
Cautions
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery.
- Do not crush or break the tablet.
- Not safe for pregnant women.
- Do not breastfeed while receiving this medication.
