Zyceva 100mg tablet

What is Zyceva 100mg tablet?

Zyceva 100mg tablet is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and advanced pancreatic cancer. It contains Erlotinib as its active ingredient. It is a targeted therapy that helps in slowing down the growth and spread of cancer cells by blocking a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor. This medicine is prescribed to patients whose condition may have progressed to advanced or metastatic stages.

How does it work?

Zyceva 100 mg belongs to a group of medicines known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking epidermal growth factor receptor, a protein found on the surface of cancer cells that drives cell division and growth. By stopping this protein from being produced, the Erlotinib 100 mg tablet prevents cancer cells from multiplying and helps control the disease.

Doctors may prescribe you supportive medication to help boost your blood cells which includes Filgrastim 300mcg (Neukine) based on your lab results.

Uses

• Non-small cell lung cancer

Zyceva (erlotinib) is used in non-small cell lung cancer. It is prescribed when the cancer is advanced/metastatic or when the doctor feels a targeted medicine is appropriate based on your reports and prior treatment history. Erlotinib works on the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway, which can slow cancer cell growth in patients where this pathway is driving the disease. Always take it only as prescribed and report symptoms like persistent diarrhea, worsening breathlessness, or severe skin rash promptly.

• Advanced pancreatic cancer

In some patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, Zyceva may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan decided by the oncologist. It is considered in specific clinical situations and may be combined with other cancer medicines depending on the stage of disease, overall health, and treatment goals. Erlotinib is a targeted therapy that works by blocking signals that can support cancer cell growth.
Because pancreatic cancer treatment is highly individualized, your doctor will guide you on expected benefits, monitoring, and side-effect management. Do not self-start or change the dose, and inform your doctor if you develop conditions like diarrhea, dehydration, poor appetite, or unusual tiredness.

How to use this medicine?

Zyceva 100mg tablet is taken once a day on an empty stomach. It should be taken at least one hour before food or two hours after food. The tablet must be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed or chewed. Taking it at the same time each day ensures better results. In some cases, the dose may be adjusted depending on how well the medicine is tolerated. Dose and duration are descided by your oncologists depending on your condition and lab results.

Precautions

Zyceva 100 mg tablet is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. To prevent pregnancy, you must use an effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after the last dose (check with your doctor for a suitable contraception). The medicine is also not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 years. Avoid smoking cigarettes, as it lowers the effectiveness of the drug. Get regular liver and kidney function tests done. Do not follow any ayurvedic regime or a herbal treatment, as it may interfere with your treatment. Ask your doctor before taking any herbal medication.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects are

• Skin rash
• Dry or peeling skin
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Mouth irritation
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Temporary hair thinning.

How to store

• Store the medicine at regular room temperature.
• Do not store higher than 30°C.
• Do not take out the tablet unless you need to take your dose.
• Keep it in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• The tablets must be stored safely out of reach of children.
• Close the bottle tightly after usage.

Other information

Skin becomes more sensitive during therapy, so sunscreen and protective clothing are recommended when outdoors. Alcohol should only be consumed if cleared by a doctor. Drinking enough water helps reduce the risk of dehydration from diarrhea. Stopping smoking is strongly advised to keep the medicine effective.