Geftinat 250mg Tablet

Product Introduction

Geftinat 250mg Tablet is a potent medication primarily used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The active ingredient in Geftinat is Gefitinib, which belongs to a class of anti-cancer medications known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Manufactured by Natco Pharma in India, this medication is notable for its targeted approach in cancer therapy.

Gefitinib, the key component of Geftinat, works by interfering with the protein epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) which is often found in high amounts on the surface of cancer cells. EGFR is involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By inhibiting this protein, Gefitinib helps to block the proliferation and survival of cancer cells that require this pathway for growth.

Geftinat tablets are typically administered as a 250mg dose once daily. The tablets are to be taken orally, with or without food, and are designed for continuous treatment depending on the patient’s response and tolerability to the medication.

Uses of Geftinat 250mg Tablet

Geftinat 250mg is primarily used for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) particularly in patients who have tumors with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitution mutations as identified by an FDA-approved test. This specification is crucial as the effectiveness of Gefitinib largely depends on the presence of these genetic mutations in the cancer cells.

The use of Geftinat is generally considered when other chemotherapy regimens have not been successful, or when other treatment options are not suitable due to patient-related factors such as overall health, side effect profile, and personal treatment preference.

Benefits of Geftinat 250mg Tablet

The primary benefit of Geftinat 250mg Tablet lies in its targeted therapy mechanism. Unlike conventional chemotherapy that affects all rapidly dividing cells, Geftinat specifically targets and inhibits the growth of cancer cells with minimal impact on normal cells. This specificity typically results in fewer and less severe side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy treatments.

Patients treated with Geftinat often experience a better quality of life with improvements in symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. The medication has been associated with a prolongation of progression-free survival times in patients with NSCLC with EGFR mutations. This means that the period during which the cancer does not get worse can be extended, providing patients more stable health periods.

Side Effects of Geftinat 250mg Tablet

While Geftinat 250mg offers significant benefits, it also comes with potential side effects, some of which can be severe. Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea: This is often manageable with dietary adjustments and medication.
• Skin reactions: Rash and itching are common, but can usually be managed with skin care regimens and medications.
• Nausea and vomiting: Antiemetic medications can help manage these symptoms.

Less common but more serious side effects can include:

• Interstitial lung disease: This rare but serious complication presents as breathing difficulty which may be severe and deteriorate to the point of requiring emergent therapy.
• Liver function abnormalities: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function.
• Eye problems: Patients may experience severe or worsening eye problems, including pain, redness, or vision changes.