Afatinib is approved as a first-line treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) whose tumors have non-resistant EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) mutations as detected by an FDA-approved test.
The afatinib tablets are approved in order to treat patients with the metastatic squamous NSCLC progressing following platinum-based chemotherapy.
Approval: On July 12, 2013, the FDA approved afatinib for the treatment of late stage NSCLC (non-Small Cell Lung Cancer).
On April 15, 2016, the FDA approved afatinib for the treatment of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the Lung.
On January 16, 2018, the FDA approved a new indication for afatinib in order to treat EGFR mutation +Ve Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.
Dosage Form: Afatinib comes in the form of tablets generically and under the brand name Gilotrif. The standard dose of afatinib is 40 mg orally, once in a day until disease progression or no longer tolerated by the patient. The standard dose of afatinib in patients with the severe renal impairment is 30 mg orally, once in a day. Take afatinib minimum 60 minutes prior to or 120 minutes following a meal. Do not take any dose that is missed within the 12 hours of the next scheduled dose.
Side Effects: Side effects of afatinib are usually mild and not life threatening. The commonly reported side effects may include diarrhea, dry skin, rash/acneiform dermatitis, decreased appetite, stomatitis, paronychia, vomiting, nausea, and pruritus.
The afatinib price in India may vary depending on the wholesaler or pharmacy and of course the brand you choose. The cost of afatinib ranges from around 13,273 INR to 16,517 INR for a supply of 7 Tablets.