Product Introduction:
Afanat 40 mg is a prescription anti-cancer medication used to treat advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is primarily prescribed for patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, helping slow cancer progression and improve survival.
Uses of Afanat 40 mg
Afanat is primarily prescribed for:
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Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – In patients with EGFR-positive mutations.
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Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung – Used in cases where other chemotherapy has failed.
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Metastatic Lung Cancer – Helps in slowing disease progression in advanced cases.
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First-Line Therapy for EGFR Mutations – Used as an initial treatment for EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
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Maintenance Therapy – Helps prevent cancer recurrence after initial treatment.
How Afanat 40 mg Works (Mechanism of Action):
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Afatinib is an irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that blocks the EGFR signaling pathway.
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It targets EGFR mutations (Exon 19 deletions & Exon 21 L858R substitutions) to stop cancer cell growth.
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By blocking these signals, it prevents tumor proliferation and promotes cancer cell death.
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Unlike other EGFR inhibitors, Afatinib binds irreversibly, making it more effective in preventing resistance development.
Dosage of Afanat 40 mg
Recommended Dosage:
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Usual starting dose: 40 mg once daily.
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Dose adjustment:
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Reduce to 30 mg daily if severe side effects occur.
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Further reduction to 20 mg daily may be required if toxicity persists.
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Duration: Taken until disease progression or severe toxicity occurs.
📌 Always follow the oncologist's advice regarding dose adjustments.
Method of Administration (How to Take It)
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Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
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Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not crush, break, or chew.
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Take at the same time daily to maintain consistent drug levels.
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If vomiting occurs after taking the dose, do not retake the tablet—wait for the next scheduled dose.
Side Effects of Afanat 40 mg
Common Side Effects:
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Diarrhea (most common, can be severe)
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Skin rash and acne-like breakouts
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Mouth sores (stomatitis)
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Dry skin, itching, and nail infections
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
Severe Side Effects (Seek Medical Help Immediately):
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Severe diarrhea and dehydration
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Liver damage (yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
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Severe lung problems (interstitial lung disease, breathing difficulties, persistent cough, fever)
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Heart issues (irregular heartbeat, swelling, chest pain, dizziness)
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Severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling, or painful sores)
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Severe eye problems (redness, vision changes, swelling, or pain)
⚠️ Regular check-ups are required to monitor and manage these side effects.
Precautions Before Taking Afanat 40 mg
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not safe for pregnant women; may harm the baby.
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Liver & Kidney Disease: Requires dose adjustment or close monitoring.
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Heart Conditions: May increase the risk of heart failure or irregular heartbeat.
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Diarrhea Risk: Stay hydrated and take anti-diarrheal medications if needed.
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Sun Sensitivity: Use sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent skin irritation.
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Eye Health: Regular eye check-ups are recommended for possible irritation or inflammation.
Drug Interactions (Medications That May Interact)
Afanat can interact with:
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Strong CYP3A4 Inducers (Rifampin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, St. John’s Wort) – May reduce Afatinib levels.
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Antacids & Proton Pump Inhibitors (Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Ranitidine) – Can lower Afatinib absorption.
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Blood Thinners (Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel) – May increase bleeding risk.
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Antifungals (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole) – Can increase Afatinib toxicity.
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HIV Medications (Ritonavir, Lopinavir, Saquinavir) – May affect drug metabolism.
⚠️ Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Afanat.
Allergy Warnings
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Do not take Afanat if allergic to Afatinib or its ingredients.
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Signs of an allergic reaction:
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Swelling of face, lips, or throat
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Difficulty breathing
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Severe rash or itching
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Dizziness or fainting
🚨 Seek emergency medical help if an allergic reaction occurs.
Storage Instructions
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Store at room temperature (15°C - 30°C / 59°F - 86°F).
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Keep in original packaging to protect from moisture and light.
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Keep away from children and pets.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of overdose:
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Severe diarrhea and dehydration
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Extreme nausea and vomiting
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Liver or kidney damage symptoms (yellow skin, confusion)
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Breathing difficulties
What to do in case of overdose?
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Seek immediate medical attention.
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Hospitalization may be required for supportive care.
Missed Dose Instructions
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If missed by less than 12 hours: Take the dose as soon as possible.
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If missed by more than 12 hours: Skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose.
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Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.