Product Intro:
Erlonat is a precision therapy that interferes with the growth of cancer cells dependent on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It is a first-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used both as a first-line and maintenance therapy in EGFR-positive cancers, especially lung and pancreatic types.
Uses (Indications):
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Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
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For advanced or metastatic NSCLC with EGFR mutations.
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First-line, second-line, or maintenance therapy after chemotherapy.
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Pancreatic Cancer:
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EGFR Mutation–Positive Cancers:
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Central Nervous System (CNS) Metastases:
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Resistance Cases:
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Other Solid Tumors (under study):
Storage Instructions:
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Store at temperatures below 30°C in a dry location.
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Protect from light and moisture.
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Keep in original packaging until use.
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Keep out of reach of children.
5. How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Erlotinib selectively inhibits the tyrosine kinase domain of the EGFR (ErbB1 receptor) by binding to the ATP-binding site. This action blocks downstream signaling cascades involved in cell growth, proliferation, and survival, particularly the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT pathways. This inhibition is most effective in cancer cells that rely on mutated EGFR for survival and division.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
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Rash and acneiform eruptions (most frequent and linked to efficacy)
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Diarrhea (mild to moderate, often manageable)
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Fatigue and weakness
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Nausea and vomiting
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
Severe or Less Common Side Effects:
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Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Rare but serious; monitor respiratory symptoms.
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Hepatotoxicity: Elevated liver enzymes; regular liver function testing is advised.
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Corneal ulceration or keratitis: Eye discomfort or changes in vision.
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GI bleeding or perforation: Rare, but more likely in patients with a history of ulcers.
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Renal dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances in some patients.
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
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NSCLC: 150 mg orally once daily on an empty stomach
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Pancreatic Cancer: 100 mg once daily (with gemcitabine)
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Dose Adjustments: Required for liver impairment or significant adverse effects
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Therapy is continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
Method of Administration:
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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 or split
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Take the dose at the same time daily to maintain consistent drug levels
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Avoid grapefruit juice, which may increase drug levels
Precautions:
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Test for EGFR mutations before starting therapy
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Smoking decreases efficacy—patients should stop smoking before and during treatment
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Monitor for respiratory symptoms, which may indicate interstitial lung disease
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Use contraception during and at least 1 month post-therapy (pregnancy category D)
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Hepatic and renal function monitoring is essential
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Sun protection is advised due to increased risk of skin rash and photosensitivity
Drug Interactions:
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Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): May reduce absorption; use H2 blockers cautiously
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CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): Increase drug concentration and toxicity risk
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CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin): Reduce Erlonat efficacy
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Warfarin: Increases risk of bleeding—monitor INR
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NSAIDs: May increase gastrointestinal risks
Allergies (Warnings for Allergic Reactions):
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Rare hypersensitivity reactions—may include rash, facial swelling, or itching
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Severe allergic responses like anaphylaxis are uncommon but require immediate discontinuation
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Avoid re-challenge in confirmed allergic reactions
Overdose Information:
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Symptoms may include severe diarrhea, rash, vomiting, or QT prolongation
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No specific antidote exists—treatment is supportive
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Hospitalization may be needed for fluid management and monitoring
Missed Dose Instructions:
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Take the missed dose as soon as remembered if not close to the next scheduled dose
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Do not double the dose to compensate for the missed one
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Resume normal schedule and consult the physician if multiple doses are missed
Additional Notes:
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Patients with rash may experience better clinical outcomes
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Long-term resistance may develop due to secondary EGFR mutations like T790M
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Regular imaging and molecular monitoring are advised to assess disease response
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Close dermatological monitoring is required, especially in the first month
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Counsel patients thoroughly on smoking cessation, adherence, and skin care