Tagrisso Prescribing Information: What Patients Need to Know
As lung cancer becomes more prevalent, there is an increasing need for effective treatments that improve the patient’s quality of life. One of the most innovative medications available is Tagrisso. It is a highly selective and potent inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, which is known to trigger cancer growth in patients.
Introduction
Tagrisso has been approved by the FDA since 2015 and has been widely used as a targeted therapy option for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with a specific EGFR mutation. The drug has shown impressive results in extending patients’ lives and improving their overall well-being.
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How Does Tagrisso Work?
Tagrisso is an oral medication that targets a specific type of lung cancer referred to as EGFR-mutated NSCLC. It aims to prevent the growth of cancer cells and their eventual spread to other parts of the body. The drug works by blocking specific proteins that normally interact with epidermal growth factor receptors, which are essential for cancer cells to grow and reproduce.
Who Can Take Tagrisso?
Tagrisso is approved for use in patients with non-small cell lung cancer that has specific EGFR mutations, such as exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitutions. Moreover, the medication should only be prescribed once the patient’s cancer has advanced and spread to other parts of their body. Lastly, patients who are sensitive to regular chemotherapy and radiotherapy but not eligible for various surgical procedures qualify for Tagrisso medication.
What are the Side Effects of Tagrisso?
Tagrisso is quite effective in controlling the progression of cancer cells, but it still has some side effects to consider. Among the most prevalent side effects of Tagrisso are diarrhea, rash, dry skin, and nail changes. Some patients have also reported experiencing mouth sores or ulcers, hair loss, eye symptoms such as irritation, and a swelling of the face.
Is Tagrisso Safe?
Yes. The safety of Tagrisso has been extensively studied and confirmed to be safe and effective in clinical trials. Despite the side effects, the medication is well-tolerated and has no significant adverse effects on a patient’s body when taken as prescribed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tagrisso is a targeted therapy option that shows promising outcomes for the treatment of EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients. While the medication comes with some side effects, the benefits outweigh the risks, and it is considered safe for use with advanced stages of NSCLC patients. Should you or your loved one be undergoing treatment for lung cancer, it is worth considering the benefits of Tagrisso as it may prove to be an invaluable asset to fighting cancer growth and improving patients’ quality of life.
