Tarceva (Erlotinib)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Tarceva is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic no-small cell lung cancer after failure of at leat one prior chemtherapy regimen. It acts by inhibiting the intracellular phosphorylation of tyrosine kinase, an enzyme associated with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). This leads to slower proliferation of the epithelial cells responsible for non-small cell cancer of the lung. The effectiveness of Tarceva is much greater in cancers which are EGFR positive.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are: rash (75%), diarrhea (54%), loss of appetite (52%),fatigue (52%), shortness of breath (41%), nausea (33%), infections (24%), mouth ulcers (17%), and conjunctivitis (12%). There have been occasional reports of severe pulmonary toxicity producing interstitial lung disease. This adverse reaction may be fatal.
Drug Interactions
Ketoconazole may increase blood levels of Tarceva significantly and increase side effects. A potential interaction resulting in increased Tarceva blood levels may also exist with the following drugs: erythromycin derivatives, protease inhibitors for AIDS, nefazodone, and voriconazole. The following drugs may reduce Tarceva blood levels and activity: rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital and St. Johns Wart. Tarceva may affect coagulation parameters and caution should be used when taken along with oral anticoagulants.
Cautions and Contraindications
Changes in liver function may occur and require reduction of Tarceva dosage
Usual Dose
150 mg taken one hour prior to or two hours after a meal.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.