Afatinib Tablets 30 Mg – Generic Gilotrif

Description

What is Afatinib 30 Mg?

Afatinib Tablets 30 mg is a targeted cancer therapy used primarily in the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially in patients diagnosed with mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. The drug is classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that works by irreversibly blocking cancer-causing signals in mutated EGFR proteins.

This medication is the generic version of Gilotrif, the American brand name of Afatinib approved by the FDA. It offers the same therapeutic quality and effectiveness for EGFR-positive patients, typically at a more affordable price point.

Key Features and Benefits

• Generic equivalent of Gilotrif (USA brand)
• FDA-approved EGFR TKI for NSCLC treatment
• Improved pricing, same clinical results
• Safely used in dose-reduction from standard 40 mg
• Irreversible EGFR blockade – improved disease control
• Oral once-daily tablet for easy administration
• Extends progression-free survival vs. chemotherapy

How Afatinib (Generic Gilotrif) Works

Afatinib, like its branded counterpart Gilotrif, blocks the growth signals in cancer cells by inactivating the EGFR, a protein responsible for stimulating growth in tumor cells. In certain EGFR-mutated lung cancers, excessive signaling leads to uncontrolled growth. By irreversibly binding to this receptor, Afatinib prevents further cell division and metastasis.

The 30 mg dose is suitable for patients who:

• Require dosage reduction due to side effects from the 40 mg standard dose
• Begin therapy more conservatively under physician discretion
• Have shown prior intolerance to full-dose therapy

Clinical Indications

Afatinib 30 mg (Generic Gilotrif) is indicated in the treatment of:

• Metastatic NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitutions (L858R)
• Patients who have developed side effects (e.g., diarrhea, rash) requiring dose adjustments
• Those who previously responded to first-generation TKIs but require a second-generation inhibitor

Dosage and Administration

• Recommended starting dose: 40 mg once daily
• Reduced dose (Afatinib 30 mg) is used if patients experience side effects
• Administration: Take once daily on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals)
• Swallow whole with water; do not split, chew, or crush

Always take Afatinib under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Treatment should continue as prescribed or until disease progression or intolerable side effects occur.

Side Effects and Safety Profile

Most Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Skin rash or irritation
• Mouth sores (Stomatitis)
• Nail inflammation
• Eye irritation
• Nausea, loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects (Less Common but Critical):

• Interstitial lung disease
• Liver toxicity (elevated ALT/AST enzymes)
• Dehydration due to persistent diarrhea
• Heart arrhythmia
• Vision changes

Afatinib (like Gilotrif) requires regular monitoring of:

• Liver function
• Electrolyte levels
• ECG (heart rhythm)
• Skin and gastrointestinal health

Warning: Do NOT use Afatinib during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It can cause harm to the unborn baby. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and 2 weeks after the last dose.

Storage and Handling

• Store at room temperature: 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F)
• Keep in original packaging
• Protect from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets

Manufacturing & Quality

• Produced in WHO-GMP and US FDA-compliant facilities
• Identical active molecule as Gilotrif (Afatinib Dimaleate)
• Tested for bioequivalence, purity, and potency
• Secure global shipping with regulated cold chain (where applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Afatinib the same as Gilotrif?
Yes. Afatinib is the generic version of Gilotrif, containing the same active ingredient and offering equivalent therapeutic benefits for EGFR-positive NSCLC patients.

2. What is the use of Afatinib Tablets 30 mg?
Afatinib 30 mg is used when patients cannot tolerate the 40 mg dose due to side effects. The 30 mg dose ensures continued treatment with fewer complications.

3. Do I need an EGFR mutation test before using Afatinib or Gilotrif?
Yes. EGFR mutation testing is required. Only patients with EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 L858R mutations qualify for this targeted treatment.

4. How long should treatment with Afatinib 30 mg continue?
It varies from patient to patient. You should continue treatment as long as it’s effective and side effects are tolerable. Regular assessments are needed.

5. What if I miss a dose?
Take missed doses if it’s within 12 hours of your scheduled time. Skip it if it’s more than 12 hours late. Do NOT take a double dose.

6. Can Afatinib be used with other anti-cancer medications?
Afatinib may interact with other drugs. Always inform your doctor of any chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or supplements you are taking.

7. Are side effects reversible if I stop the drug?
Yes. Most side effects like skin rash and diarrhea are reversible upon pausing or stopping Afatinib. Your doctor will guide dose adjustment if needed.

8. Is Afatinib safe for elderly patients?
Yes, but elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects. Close monitoring is crucial. Dose adjustments like the 30 mg option are often considered.

9. Is Afatinib (Gilotrif) chemotherapy?
No. Afatinib is a targeted therapy, not a traditional chemotherapy drug. It has fewer systemic side effects compared to typical chemo.

10. Where can I buy Afatinib Tablets 30 mg?
You can buy Afatinib 30 mg from licensed pharmacies or authorized online stores with a valid prescription. Always ensure it’s sourced from reputable manufacturers offering GMP-certified, generic Gilotrif.