Gefitinib is a medication used in the treatment of small cell lung cancer when patients fail to respond to other medications. It is in a class of drugs that work by inhibiting an enzyme needed by cancer cells to grow. These drugs are known as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Availability of this drug varies worldwide; in some areas, it can be obtained by prescription and in others, patients need to apply for it through a special program after being advised to do so by their physicians.
Known by the brand name Iressa®, gefitinib can extend life in lung cancer patients. Response rates vary and some researchers have proposed using a test to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from gefitinib treatment. These patients could be provided with the medication, while others can be given other options more suitable for their cases.
The drug comes in the form of a tablet taken once a day. It needs to be stored in a cool dry place out of reach of children and should be taken at the same time every day. Patients who miss a dose can discuss options with their doctors. The main purpose of this drug is to extend life by inhibiting tumor growth, keeping the patient more comfortable, and it does not have a curative effect.
Side effects of gefitinib can include dry skin, oral sores, weakness, and itching. Some patients develop nausea, vomiting, and vision distortions. Patients should discuss side effects with their doctors in case they are a sign of a serious negative drug reaction. It may be necessary to discontinue use of the medication and provide the patient with an alternative. Sometimes, medications can be used to manage side effects if the patient is responding well to the gefitinib, in the interests of keeping the patient on the medication as long as possible.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration initially approved this medication for general use and later withdrew the approval, restricting gefitinib availability to existing patients on the medicine and patients who apply through an access program. Patients can get the drug if they document a need, showing that they didn't respond to other treatments, including other drugs known to extend life in small cell lung cancer patients. The FDA made this decision not out of worries about the safety of the medication, but out of concerns that patients might take this drug instead of more broadly effective treatments.