Afanix 40, featuring Afatinib as its key ingredient, serves as a specific therapy aimed at treating non-small cell lung cancer. This medication falls under the category of Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors, specifically targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). It’s primarily utilized for the first-line treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases that exhibit EGFR gene mutations, such as deletions in exon 19 or substitutions in exon 21 (L858R), as confirmed by approved diagnostic tests. Additionally, Afanix 40 is sanctioned by the FDA for the treatment of advanced, metastatic squamous NSCLC patients who have not responded to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Afatinib’s action mechanism, similar to that of Lapatinib and Neratinib, involves protein kinase inhibition along with blocking mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2) and EGFR. Afatinib, found in Afanix 40, not only targets EGFR mutations like first-generation tyrosine-kinase inhibitors such as Erlotinib or Gefitinib but also addresses some resistant mutations to these drugs, though it is less effective against the T790M mutation compared to third-generation medications like osimertinib. Given its efficacy against Her2 mutations, Afanix 40 is under consideration for treating Her2-positive breast cancer and cancers with EGFR and Her2 mutations. Phase III trials have shown that afatinib outperforms erlotinib in prolonging progression-free survival in patients with advanced squamous cell lung carcinoma.

Manufactured by Beacon Pharmaceuticals Limited in Bangladesh, Afanix 40 is available as oral tablets with a potency of 40mg.

Usage Guidelines for Afanix 40 mg

Afanix 40 is designed for the initial management of metastatic NSCLC patients with specific EGFR gene mutations, including exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitutions. Its efficacy and safety have not been validated for other EGFR mutations.

Contraindications:

Afanix is not advised for:
– Individuals allergic to any Afanix 40 components;
– Pregnant and breastfeeding women;
– Children under 18.

Administration Instructions

Patients are recommended to take a single Afanix 40 tablet daily, following these guidelines:
– Adhere strictly to the prescription;
– Maintain consistent dosing intervals, 24 hours apart;
– Take on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals;
– Swallow the tablet whole with water, without chewing or crushing;
– If a dose is missed and the next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose.

Precautions During Use:

Be mindful of:
– Skin reactions, including serious conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis;
– Severe diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration or kidney failure;
– Pulmonary toxicity, including conditions like interstitial lung disease. Report any unusual respiratory symptoms immediately;
– Liver disease, necessitating careful monitoring and reporting of unusual symptoms;
– Eye issues, such as keratitis, which may cause inflammation and vision problems;
– Dizziness, advising against driving or operating machinery if affected.

Potential Side Effects

While Afanix 40 is prescribed when benefits outweigh risks, some may experience side effects like severe diarrhea, nausea, skin issues, eye discomfort, fever, and signs of dehydration.

Drug Interactions

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to prevent potential interaction risks with Afanix 40.

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