Erdafitinib is an anticancer medicine used to treat locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, a type of cancer that affects the bladder and urinary tract. It is prescribed for patients whose cancer has certain fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) genetic alterations and who have already received prior chemotherapy.

Erdafitinib is a targeted therapy that helps slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells by blocking FGFR proteins involved in tumour development. It is taken orally and requires close monitoring, especially for eye-related side effects and changes in blood phosphate levels.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience vision changes, eye pain, or dry eyes. Regular eye examinations and blood tests are important during treatment. Patients with a history of eye disorders or kidney problems should consult their doctor before starting this medicine.

Erdafitinib was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in April 2019 for the treatment of adults with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma with susceptible FGFR3 or FGFR2 genetic alterations after progression during platinum-containing chemotherapy. Its approval provided a targeted treatment option for patients with specific genetic mutations.

Erdafitinib is indicated to treat the following conditions:

• Locally advanced urothelial carcinoma

• Metastatic urothelial carcinoma with FGFR genetic alterations

Erdafitinib is taken orally as a tablet, usually once daily, or as prescribed by the doctor.

• Swallow the tablet whole, with or without food.

• Do not crush or chew the tablet.

• The dosage may be adjusted based on blood phosphate levels and treatment response.

• Do not take a double dose if a dose is missed.

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Like all medications, Erdafitinib can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

Serious side effects of Erdafitinib are:

• Eye disorders such as central serous retinopathy

• Severe hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels)

• Hand-foot syndrome

• Severe skin reactions

• Nail disorders

• Stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth)

Common side effects of Erdafitinib are:

• Dry mouth

• Fatigue

• Diarrhoea

• Decreased appetite

• Taste changes

• Dry skin

• Hair thinning

• Constipation

 Erdafitinib should be used carefully because it may cause serious side effects:

• Eye problems: Erdafitinib may cause serious eye disorders such as central serous retinopathy or retinal pigment epithelial detachment, which can affect vision.

• High phosphate levels: This medicine often raises blood phosphate levels, which may require dietary changes or additional treatment.

• Skin and nail disorders: Patients may experience dry skin, hand-foot syndrome, nail separation, or nail damage during treatment.

• Mouth sores: Painful sores or mouth inflammation may develop and require supportive care.

• Severe allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty may occur.

 Certain precautions are important when using Erdafitinib:

• Regular eye examinations: Patients should undergo eye exams before treatment and during therapy to detect any early vision-related side effects.

• Monitoring phosphate levels: Blood phosphate levels should be checked regularly, especially during the first weeks of treatment.

• Dose adjustments: The dose may need to be reduced or interrupted if severe side effects occur.

• Pregnancy prevention: Erdafitinib may harm an unborn baby, so effective contraception should be used during treatment and for the recommended period after therapy.

• Breastfeeding caution: Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment due to the potential risk to the infant.

• Liver and kidney monitoring: Patients with liver or kidney impairment should be monitored carefully while taking this medicine.

• Attend regular eye check-ups during treatment.

• Drink adequate fluids and maintain good oral hygiene.

• Report any vision changes or eye discomfort immediately.

• Follow dietary advice to manage phosphate levels.

• Avoid self-medication and inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

• Use effective contraception during and after treatment as advised.

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/212018s000lbl.pdf

2. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB12147

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK615904/

4. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-erdafitinib-locally-advanced-or-metastatic-urothelial-carcinoma

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.