Basic Information On Iressa
Iressa is an anilinoquinazoline used for patients who have locally advanced lung cancer. It is not used for small cell lung cancer though. The Iressa drug is used after the platinum based chemotherapy and doetaxel chemotherapy have both failed. There is some contradiction in the clinical trial results of this drug in terms of its effectiveness and its ability to increase patient survival rate. It works as an inhibitor and interrupts a growth factor in cancer cells. It might also be used in cases of other cancers where EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) over expression is involved.
Precautions/Side Effects For Iressa
There are few side effects for brand or generic Iressa. These include diarrhea, nausea, basic gastrointestinal symptoms, acne, skin reactions such as rashes and dry skin, anorexia, etc. Slight abdominal discomfort might also be experienced. Asymptomatic increases in liver enzymes, conjunctivitis and blepharitis might also be observed. Most of these adverse drug effects start within the first month of onset of usage. Iressa contains gefitinib which is an EGFR inhibitor.
In case you experience aggravated symptoms, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. Other minute possibilities of side effects include pancreatitis, haemorrhage, pulmonary toxicity increase and other symptoms associated with it. In case of eye pain or ulcers, speak to your doctor immediately. Gefitinib is known to interact with CYP3A4 inducers. Hence usage of drugs such as phenytoin and rifampicin should result in an increase in dosage of Iressa. Patients are advised to study other drugs they are taking to verify if they react with Iressa. There are definitive studies on the side effects of brand or generic Iressa on pregnant women and hence it should not be given to pregnant women. Women are advised to not become pregnant for the duration they are using Iressa.
Iressa Dosage
250mg of Iressa is prescribed as a daily oral dose. Increased dosage does not help and infact only causes toxicity. If other drugs being consumed contain CYP3A4 inducers, then dosage should be increased to 500mg. The Iressa drug can also be dispersed in a small glass of water and taken in liquid form. If eye symptoms such as pain or irritation occur or patient has poor tolerance of diarrhea, the drug should be discontinued and later restarted after the symptoms subside.
Buy Iressa From North Drug Store
North Drug Store offers Iressa as tablets of 250mg. Buy Iressa from North Drug Store as we offer a free refill reminder service to all our customers.
