Iressa (Gefitinib) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor indicated as a first-line treatment for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have tumors with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or L858R substitution mutations in exon 2.

Iressa (Gefitinib) is utilized for the treatment of lung cancer. It functions by inhibiting or halting the growth of cancer cells. Iressa (Gefitinib) blocks a specific protein known as tyrosine kinase, which is an enzyme involved in cancer cell proliferation.

Take Iressa (Gefitinib) by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, typically once daily, with or without food.

If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, you can dissolve it in a glass of water (120 to 240 milliliters). Stir the mixture well for 15 minutes, and then drink it all immediately. To ensure you receive the full dose, rinse the glass with another 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 milliliters) of water and drink the rinsing water.

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s less than 12 hours before your next scheduled dose, omit the missed dose and take your subsequent dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to compensate for the missed one.

• Have lung or breathing problems
• Liver problems
• Have vision or eye problems
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Iressa can be harmful to your unborn child.
If you are taking Iressa and experience any of the following conditions, stop using the medication and consult your doctor:
• Interstitial lung disease (ILD): if there is a worsening of respiratory symptoms, including dyspnea, cough, or fever, Iressa should be interrupted, and the patient should undergo prompt evaluation. If interstitial lung disease (ILD) is confirmed, Iressa should be discontinued, and the patient should receive appropriate treatment.
• Hepatotoxicity and liver impairment: there have been rare reports of hepatic failure, which in some instances resulted in fatal outcomes. As a result, periodic liver function tests are recommended. Gefitinib should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver function changes, and discontinuation should be considered if these changes are severe.
• Lactose: IRESSA contains lactose. If you have rare hereditary conditions such as galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption, you should not take this medication.
Does it have any side effects?
It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Common side effects may include:
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Hair loss
• Fever
• Dry mouth
• Dry, red or itchy eyes
• Red and sore eyelids
• Nail problems
• Vomiting
Inform your doctor right away if you experience any of the following side effects, as you may require urgent medical attention:
• Allergic reaction: symptoms include swollen face, tongue or throat, trouble swallowing, hives, difficulty breathing, or nettle rash.
• Severe difficulty breathing or a sudden deterioration in breathing, potentially accompanied by a cough or fever, may indicate lung inflammation known as 'interstitial lung disease.' This condition may affect approximately 1 in 100 patients taking Iressa and can be life-threatening.
• Severe skin reactions (rare) that impact large areas of your body may occur. Symptoms can include redness, ulcers, and skin peeling. The lips, nose, eyes, and genitals may also be involved.
• Dehydration resulting from prolonged or severe diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or loss of appetite.
• Eye issues (uncommon), including pain, redness, watery eyes, sensitivity to light, vision changes, or ingrown eyelashes. These symptoms may indicate that you have an ulcer on the surface of the eye (cornea).
Is it safe to take it with another drug?
Like other medications, certain drugs can impact the effectiveness of Iressa or elevate your risk for severe side effects. It is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication.
• CYP3A4 Inducer: Drugs that are potent inducers of CYP3A4 can enhance the metabolism of gefitinib, resulting in reduced plasma concentrations of the medication. In patients taking a strong CYP3A4 inducer (such as rifampicin, phenytoin, or tricyclic antidepressants), increase Iressa to 500 mg daily.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitor: Drugs that are potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 (such as ketoconazole and itraconazole) reduce the metabolism of gefitinib, leading to increased plasma concentrations of the drug.
• Medications that raise gastric pH (such as proton pump inhibitors, histamine H2-receptor antagonists, and antacids) may decrease plasma concentrations of gefitinib. If possible, avoid using Iressa alongside proton pump inhibitors.
• Elevations in bleeding have been observed in some patients taking warfarin concurrently with Iressa therapy.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for other possible interactions not listed within this section.
How should I store it?

Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep in the original packaging. Please check the expiration date on the blister strip or the outer carton. Keep out of reach of children.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

If someone has overdosed and is experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, contact your nearest emergency department immediately.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Iressa is not advised for use during pregnancy, as it may be harmful to a fetus or could lead to fetal death. It is unclear whether Iressa transfers into breast milk; however, its use is not recommended while breastfeeding. Best to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

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