General Information
Lapatinib is used for the treatment of HER2-positive that has not responded to the standard treatment. HER2-positive is a certain type of breast cancer. This medication is used together with another medication called Capecitabine.
Lapatinib may also be used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer in women after menopause. This is used with another medication called Letrozole.
How does Lapatinib work?
Lapatinib blocks the development and spread of cancer. They aim and inhibit with procedures in the cells that help cancer grow. Some breast cancer cells have a higher than usual level of a protein called HER2 on their surface. In which it stimulates them to grow. This is called HER2 positive breast cancer.
Lapatinib is called a dual TKI because it targets and blocks HER2 and another protein called HER1 or EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor). That it also stimulates breast cancer cells to grow.
Why use Lapatinib?
Lapatinib is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This helps to slow or stop the growth and development of cancer cells. Lapatinib is a small molecule and a member of the 4-anilinoquinazoline class of kinase inhibitors. This comes as a tablet with a strength of 250 mg for oral use.
How to use Lapatinib?
Take this medication exactly as it is prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than the prescription. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to it.
Lapatinib is to be taken by mouth. Swallow it as a whole with a full glass of water. Each dose is taken an hour before or an hour after a meal, usually once a day. You should not take the medicine more than once a day. Avoid eating grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this drug.
What are the side effects of Lapatinib?
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Mouth sores
- Upset stomach
- Dry skin
- Rash
- Hair loss
- Pain or redness on the palms of your hands or sole of your feet
- Problems with your fingernails or toenails
- Trouble sleeping
- Unusual tiredness
Warnings and Precautions
- While taking this medication, wash your hands often.
- Avoid sun exposure. Wear sunblock or protective clothing.
- Get plenty of rest and maintain good health.
- If you are allergic to this medication, tell it to your doctor right away.
- Do not breastfeed while having this treatment.
- Do not receive any kind of immunization or vaccination without your doctor’s approval.
- Keep this far from the reach of children.
