Afatin 40mg Tablet is an anticancer medicine containing Afatinib dimaleate as an active ingredient. It is used to treat patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have certain (non-resistant) abnormal epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genes and patients with metastatic, squamous NSCLC progressing after platinum-based chemotherapy. Cancer is a disorder in which cells multiply in an abnormal and uncontrolled manner. Talk to your doctor if you have kidney disorders, breathing problems, liver disorders, heart problems, intolerance to sugars, severe dry eye, or other eye problems before taking this medicine. 

Afatin 40mg Tablet can delay disease progression and improve overall survival, it can also help patients maintain a better quality of life for a longer period of time. This includes improved physical functioning, reduced pain, and better mental and emotional health. Tell your doctor if you are wearing contact lenses or breastfeeding before taking this medication. Limit your time in the sun as this medicine may make your skin sensitive to the sun. It is not recommended for children and adolescents under the age of 18.  Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Afatin 40mg Tablet is indicated to treat the following conditions:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

The therapeutic effect of Afatin 40mg Tablet is primarily related to its ability to inhibit the activity of certain proteins in cancer cells, specifically the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family of proteins. These proteins play a key role in promoting the growth and spread of cancer cells, and by inhibiting their activity, it can help to slow or stop the progression of cancer.

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 Afatin 40mg Tablet and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

• Afatin 40mg Tablet should be stored at room temperature, between 40°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.

Afatin 40mg Tablet is an oral medication that is usually taken once a day, at approximately the same time each day, with or without food. It should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. These capsules 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. You should not take a double dose to make up for the second dose.

Like all medications, Afatin 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
• Kidney problems
• 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

Follow all instructions and dosing recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately, especially if they relate to your lungs, eyes, skin, liver, kidneys, heart, or bleeding. Stay well-hydrated and report any signs or symptoms of dehydration to your healthcare provider immediately, especially if you experience severe diarrhea. Women should avoid pregnancy or breastfeeding. Reproductive-age women should use effective birth control during the treatment and for at least two weeks after your last dose. Patients should report any signs or symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth or decreased urination, to a healthcare provider immediately.

1. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Jan 2018] [ Accessed on 21st April 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/4018/401292s014lbl.pdf

2. Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc), [ Revised on Sept 2020] [ Accessed on 21st April 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5147.pdf

3. Helga Wecker, Cornelius F Waller; Afatinib; Recent Results in Cancer Research 2018; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40069769/