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Afacien 40mg Tablet
Last updated on 17 Jun 2026 | 06:54 AM (IST)
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Introduction
Afacien 40mg Tablet is an anticancer medicine containing afatinib dimaleate as its active ingredient. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose tumours have specific non-resistant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations, as well as for patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC that has progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy. These indications form the primary Afacien tablet uses in clinical practice.
Patients often enquire about the Afacien 40mg price India, which may vary depending on availability, supplier, and prescription requirements. Those looking to Buy Afacien 40mg online should ensure the medicine is sourced from a licensed pharmacy and dispensed only against a valid prescription.
Common Afacien 40mg side effects may include skin reactions, diarrhoea, mouth sores, and fatigue. Inform your doctor if you have a history of eye problems or if you wear contact lenses, as this medicine may increase eye-related discomfort. Limiting sun exposure is recommended because the medication can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Uses
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor mutations.
Metastatic non small cell lung cancer progressing after platinum based chemotherapy.
How Afacien 40mg Tablet works
It functions by inhibiting the ErbB family of proteins, which includes EGFR (also known as the epidermal growth factor receptor, or ErbB1, ErbB2, ErbB3, and ErbB4) and HER2. Changes in the genes that create these proteins can have an impact on how cancer cells multiply and disseminate. Through the inhibition of these proteins and its activities, this medication can prevent the growth and proliferation of cancer cells and can help to slow or stop the progression of cancer.
Interaction of Afacien 40mg Tablet with other drugs
Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Afacien 40mg Tablet and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects. Inform your physician if you are taking antifungals or immunosuppressive drugs.
Storage conditions
Afacien 40mg Tablet should be stored at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Protected from light.
Keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be used.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Should be disposed of properly.
How to take Afacien 40mg Tablet
Afacien 40mg Tablet is an oral medication that is usually taken once a day, at approximately the same time each day, before food. If you have already eaten, wait at least 3 hours before taking this medicine.
It should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. These tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They should not be crushed, chewed, or opened, as this can affect how the medication is absorbed and decrease its effectiveness. Take the missed dose as soon as you recall if your next planned dose is more than eight hours away. You should not take a double dose to make up for the second dose.
Safety Advices
Pregnancy
It is recommended to avoid this medication during pregnancy as Afacien 40mg Tablet is unsafe during pregnancy as it can cause fetal harm.
Breast Feeding
It is unknown whether Afacien 40mg Tablet is excreted in human milk or not, and there are potential risks to a nursing infant. So it is not recommended for nursing women to take it.
Lungs
Afacien 40mg Tablet is primarily used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients should consult healthcare providers if they have any other lung disease or history of lung inflammation before taking it.
Liver
Afacien 40mg Tablet is primarily metabolized in the liver, so inform your healthcare provider if you have any liver problems or diseases. Additionally, this medicine may raise liver enzyme levels, which may indicate inflammation or injury to the liver. Regular blood tests are necessary for patients using this medicine to assess liver function.
Alcohol
It is recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet, as alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects associated with the medication, such as stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Driving
Patients on Afacien 40mg Tablet may have adverse effects that make it difficult for them to drive or operate machinery, such as weariness, dizziness, or impaired vision. In these cases, patients should be advised to avoid driving or using machinery. Consult your doctor for further queries.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Afacien 40mg Tablet can cause side effects, although not everyone who takes it will experience them.
Serious:
Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
Severe diarrhea or dehydration
Liver problems
Eye problems, such as corneal erosion or ulceration
Hemorrhage or bleeding problems
Renal impairment
Cardiac problems
Common:
Diarrhea
Mouth sores
Acne or skin rash
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Nail changes, such as nail bed infections or inflammation
Dry skin or itching
Eye irritation or dryness
Respiratory infections
Expert tips
Follow all dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Do not take more or less of the medicine than prescribed.
Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately, especially those affecting the lungs, eyes, skin, liver, kidneys, heart, or causing bleeding.
Women should avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding during treatment.
Men and women of reproductive age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least two weeks after the last dose.
Inform your doctor if you notice signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or reduced urination.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet, especially if diarrhea occurs.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they may interact with the medicine and increase the risk of side effects.
FAQs
Q1.
Can I donate blood while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet?
Patients should not donate blood while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet, as the medication can be harmful to the recipient. It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you plan to donate blood, as they may advise you to wait until after you have finished treatment.
Q2.
Can I continue to work or go to school while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet?
The ability to work or go to school while taking Afacien 40mg Tablet will depend on your individual condition and response to treatment. Some patients may experience fatigue or other side effects that can impact their ability to perform daily activities.
Q3.
Does Afacien 40mg Tablet have any effect on fertility?
There is limited information on the effects of Afacien 40mg Tablet on fertility. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are trying to conceive, as some cancer treatments can affect fertility.
Q4.
Can I take Afacien 40mg Tablet if I have a history of heart problems?
If you have a history of heart problems, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Afacien 40mg Tablet with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. This medication can cause cardiac problems, and your healthcare provider may need to monitor you closely during treatment.
Q5.
Can Afacien 40mg Tablet be used in combination with other cancer treatments?
Afacien 40mg Tablet is sometimes used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy. However, the safety and effectiveness of these combinations will depend on your individual condition and treatment plan.
Fact Box
Molecule name | Afatinib dimaleate |
Therapeutic class | Anticancer |
Pharmacological class | Tyrosine kinase inhibitor |
Indications | 1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor mutations 2. Metastatic non small cell lung cancer progressing after platinum based chemotherapy |
References
Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Jan 2018] [Accessed on 16-02-2024 ], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/201292s014lbl.pdf
Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on 21-06-2023 ] [Accessed on 16-02-2024], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5147.pdf
Boehringer Ingelheim Pvt. Ltd., Therapeutic Goods Administration, [Revised on April 2014], [Accessed on 16-02-2024], https://www.tga.gov.au/sites/default/files/auspar-afatinib-dimaleate-140414.pdf
Helga Wecker, Cornelius F Waller; Afatinib; Recent Results in Cancer Research 2018; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30069769/
Disclaimer
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Author Details

Written By
Dr. Vikas B S
Pharm D

Reviewed By
Dr. Abhishaanth Prabu
MBBS
Last updated : 17 Jun 2026 | 06:54 AM (IST)

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