gefitinib, Iressa (Discontinued in the US) (cont.)

Pharmacy Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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PREGNANCY: Gefitinib should not be used by pregnant women.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether gefitinib is secreted in human milk. Since there is a possibility of toxicity in nursing infants, it is recommended that breastfeeding be stopped if the mother is treated with gefitinib.

SIDE EFFECTS: About one in one hundred persons receiving gefitinib develop a potentially serious lung condition called interstitial lung disease that causes inflammation within the lung. Therefore, patients taking gefitinib who develop new or worsening cough, fever, or difficulty in breathing should contact their physician immediately.

Eye irritation has been observed in patients receiving gefitinib, and patients who develop the onset of new eye symptoms should contact their physician.

All patients taking gefitinib should seek medical advice promptly if they develop severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, or vomiting.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

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