Afanat (Afatinib) 40 mg

Indicated for the treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):

• EGFR Mutation-Positive NSCLC: First-line treatment for patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have non-resistant EGFR mutations (Exon 19 deletions or Exon 21 L858R substitution).
• Squamous NSCLC: For patients progressing after platinum-based chemotherapy.

Dosage: 1 tablet (40 mg) once daily.

⚠️ CRITICAL ABSORPTION WARNING (Food Interaction):

Food significantly blocks the absorption of the drug into your blood. Taking it with food renders the therapy ineffective.

• 🚫 DO NOT: Take with food.
• ✅ EMPTY STOMACH RULE: Take the tablet at least 1 hour before a meal OR 3 hours after a meal.
• Tip: Establish a routine, e.g., take it immediately upon waking up, wait one hour, then have breakfast.

• Severe hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD).
• Children and adolescents under 18.
• Severe intolerance to galactose.

Side effects are common but manageable with proactive care:

• Diarrhea: Very common. Patients should have anti-diarrheal medication (Loperamide) ready and start it at the first sign.
• Rash / Acne: Keep skin moisturized and use sunscreen. Often indicates the drug is effective.
• Stomatitis: Mouth sores.
• Paronychia: Nail bed infections.