Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Tarceva
Erlotinib is a small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that specifically targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It works by blocking the signals that tell cancer cells to grow and divide, which can slow or stop the progression of certain types of cancer. Erlotinib is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and pancreatic cancer.
For the treatment of certain types of non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.
Severe and sometimes fatal skin reactions, including toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been reported. Interstitial lung disease, including fatal cases, has occurred. Gastrointestinal perforation has been reported, sometimes fatal. Severe or fatal liver injury has been reported. Embryo-fetal toxicity has been observed in animal studies.
Outcome:
Increased risk of bleeding
Mechanism:
Erlotinib can inhibit CYP2C9, which metabolizes warfarin.
Outcome:
Reduced erlotinib absorption
Mechanism:
Changes in gastric pH.
Outcome:
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
Mechanism:
Additive effect on GI irritation.
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release formulation (Year 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial data, there is a 70% likelihood of erlotinib maintaining its current approval status for the next 5 years.
Antineoplastic Agent, Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor
Quinazoline