Erlocent
Erlocent Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Erlocent is a brand name. Its generic name is Erlotinib.
Erlocent Introduction
Erlocent is a type of medication that is prescribed to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is an orally administered drug and belongs to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) class of medications. Erlocent works by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in cancer cells, preventing them from growing and spreading.
Uses for Erlocent
Erlocent is used to treat advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body. It is used along with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, and may be prescribed after other cancer drugs have failed, when other treatments have become less effective, or if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Mechanism of Action of Erlocent
Erlocent works by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) that is found on the surface of some types of cancer cells. When EGFR is blocked, growth of the tumor is inhibited. This helps slow the growth and spread of the cancer in the body.
How Long Does it Take for Erlocent to Work?
It can take weeks or months for erlotinib to work. Generally, the longer a person takes the medication, the better the response. Some people will experience improvement in symptoms within a few weeks, while other people may not feel a change in their symptoms until after several months.
Absorption of Erlocent
Erlocent is absorbed quickly and within 1 to 2 hours of taking it, 60 to 70% of it can be detected in the blood. After absorption, it binds to proteins in the blood and is then distributed to different parts of the body.
Route of Elimination of Erlocent
The route of elimination for erlotinib is mainly through the urine and feces within 2 to 3 days. A small amount is excreted in the bile.
Dosage of Erlocent
The dosage of erlotinib depends on the patient’s body weight, the stage of disease, and other medications being used to treat cancer. Generally, the recommended dosage is 150mg taken orally once daily. This should be taken on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Administration of Erlocent
Erlocent is administered as an oral drug. It can be taken with or without food, although it is best to take erlotinib at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. The tablets should be taken as a whole and not crushed or chewed.
Side Effects of Erlocent
Common side effects of erlotinib include skin rash, stomach discomfort or pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. In rare cases, serious side effects such as liver damage, severe rash, breathing difficulty, and eye irritation can occur. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur.
Toxicity of Erlocent
Erlocent is generally well tolerated, but it can cause serious and life-threatening side effects. Liver toxicity is one of the most serious side effects and can lead to liver failure. It is important to tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the above mentioned side effects.
Precaution for Taking Erlocent
- Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as liver, kidney, or heart problems before taking erlotinib.
- Your doctor may order regular blood tests while taking erlotinib, to monitor your liver function.
- Erlocent can cause a skin rash, so avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Do not take any other medications while taking erlotinib without your doctor’s approval.
Interaction with Diseases
Erlocent should not be taken by people with severe kidney and liver diseases or those taking medications that can affect the liver or kidney. It may also interact with other drugs and should not be taken by people who are taking other medications that can affect the liver or kidneys. Tell your doctor about all the medication you are taking.
Drug Interactions of Erlocent
Erlocent can interact with other drugs, such as antacids, antibiotics, steroids, and drugs used to treat seizures or depression. It can also interact with some over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements that you are taking.
Food Interactions of Erlocent
Erlocent can interact with some foods, including dairy products, grapefruit juice, and drinks containing caffeine. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of erlotinib in the body, so it is best to avoid all grapefruit products while taking erlotinib.
Pregnancy and Lactation Use of Erlocent
Erlocent should not be used during pregnancy because it can cause harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended for lactating mothers, as it can pass into breast milk. Consult with your doctor about other treatments available if you are pregnant or lactating.
Acute Overdose of Erlocent
An overdose of erlotinib can be life-threatening and should be treated as a medical emergency. Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, confusion, drowsiness, and weak or shallow breathing. Seek medical attention if you think you have overdosed on erlotinib.
Contraindication of Erlocent
Erlocent is contraindicated in people with pre-existing liver, kidney, or heart diseases. It should also not be used in people who are pregnant or lactating. People taking other medications that can affect the liver, kidneys, or heart should not take erlotinib.
Use Direction of Erlocent
Take erlotinib exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dosage or stop taking it without your doctor’s approval. Take erlotinib at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, and swallow the whole tablet. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
Storage of Erlocent
Erlocent tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and in their original container. Keep the tablets out of reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution of Erlocent
The volume of distribution of erlotinib is approximately 12.6 L/kg. This means that the drug is evenly distributed throughout the body when taken.
Half Life of Erlocent
The half life of erlotinib is approximately 14.7 hours. This means that, after 14.7 hours, the amount of erlotinib in the body is reduced by half.
Clearance of Erlocent
The clearance of erlotinib is approximately 89 mL/min. This means that the drug is eliminated from the body at an average rate of 89 mL/min.
Here you find in details version of Erlocent
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Erlocent
What is Erlocent used for?
Erlocent is prescribed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, where other therapies have not been successful. It can also be used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer and certain types of brain tumors.
Who should not take Erlocent?
Erlocent should not be used by patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to erlotinib, other medicines containing erlotinib, or any of the other ingredients in the drug.
How long should I take Erlocent?
The length of treatment will depend on how well the drug works for you and the side effects you experience. It is important to follow the advice of your healthcare provider when taking erlotinib.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Erlocent?
Before taking erlotinib, tell your healthcare provider if you have had any medical conditions, allergies, or kidney or liver problems. Make sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the possible side effects of Erlocent?
Common side effects can include skin rash, acne, hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience any serious or severe side effects while taking erlotinib.
Are there any food or drug interactions with Erlocent?
Yes, there are medications that may interact with erlotinib. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Do not start or stop taking any medication without talking to your healthcare provider first.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Erlocent?
If you miss a dose of erlotinib, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to your next scheduled dose, just take the next dose. Do not double up on doses.
What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Erlocent?
Signs of a severe allergic reaction to erlotinib may include rash, itching, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, or lips, difficulty breathing, wheezing, feeling faint, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your healthcare provider right away.
Can Erlocent be used to treat other types of cancer?
Erlocent may be used in certain cases to treat other types of cancer. You should talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and potential benefits of using erlotinib for other types of cancer.
Does Erlocent interact with other medications?
Yes, there are certain medications that interact with erlotinib. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Do not start or stop taking any medication without talking to your healthcare provider first.
How should I store Erlocent?
Erlocent should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and light. Keep the capsules in their original container. Keep the medication away from children and pets and do not share your medication with anyone else.
What precautions should I take when taking Erlocent?
It is important to take erlotinib exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects. Do not drink alcohol while taking erlotinib.
What is the most common side effect of Erlocent?
The most common side effects of erlotinib are skin rash, acne, hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain.
Does Erlocent cause fatigue?
Yes, fatigue is a common side effect of erlotinib. Talk to your doctor if you are having issues with fatigue.
What should I do if I experience difficulty breathing while taking Erlocent?
If you experience difficulty breathing while taking erlotinib, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Shortness of breath is a serious symptom and should not be ignored.
How long does it take for Erlocent to work?
It can take up to a few weeks for erlotinib to start working. Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your response to the medication.
Should I take Erlocent with food?
Erlocent can be taken with or without food. If it causes an upset stomach or nausea, take it with food.
Will I need to have regular blood tests while taking Erlocent?
Yes, your healthcare provider may recommend that you have regular blood tests while taking erlotinib. This can help monitor your response to the medication.
Who manufactures Erlocent?
Erlocent is manufactured by Genentech, a company owned by Roche.
How should I dispose of unused Erlocent?
Unused erlotinib should be disposed of safely at a local pharmacy. Follow the instructions on the packaging or ask your pharmacist for advice on how to safely dispose of the medication.
What is the recommended dosage of Erlocent?
The recommended dosage of erlotinib will depend on your age, weight, medical condition, and other medications you are taking. Your healthcare provider can advise on the best dosage for you.
What safety measures should I consider when taking Erlocent?
Before taking Erlocent, tell your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, allergies, or kidney or liver problems you have. Make sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not drive or operate machinery while taking erlotinib, as it may cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking erlotinib.
Does Erlocent have any long-term side effects?
It is possible that taking erlotinib long-term can cause serious long-term side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of taking erlotinib long-term and the potential side effects.
What should I do if I experience stomach upset while taking Erlocent?
Stomach upset is a common side effect of erlotinib. Taking the medication with food can help reduce stomach upset. If the stomach upset becomes severe or persists, talk to your healthcare provider.
Can Erlocent be used to treat cancer in children?
Erlocent is not approved for the treatment of cancer in children. Talk to your healthcare provider about other treatment options available for children with cancer.
Can I take other medications while taking Erlocent?
It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking before taking erlotinib. Some medications should not be taken together with erlotinib, and your doctor may need to adjust your dose or prescribe an alternative medication.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Erlocent?
No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking erlotinib. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems and may interact with the medication. Talk to your healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking erlotinib.
What should I do if I experience rashes or itching while taking Erlocent?
Rash and itching are common side effects of erlotinib. If the rash or itching become severe or if you notice hives or swelling, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Should I take Erlocent with food or on an empty stomach?
Erlocent can be taken with or without food. If it causes an upset stomach or nausea, take it with food.
How often should I take Erlocent?
Erlocent is usually taken once a day. Depending on your dosage, your healthcare provider may recommend taking erlotinib up to twice daily. Take erlotinib at the same time each day.
Can I take Erlocent while pregnant?
No, it is not recommended to take erlotinib while pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and potential benefits of taking erlotinib while pregnant.
Will taking Erlocent affect my daily activities?
Taking erlotinib can cause drowsiness and fatigue, which can affect daily activities. It is important to tell your doctor if you experience any symptoms that are bothersome.
Is it safe to take Erlocent long-term?
Long-term use of erlotinib may cause serious side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking erlotinib long-term.
Can I take Erlocent if I have kidney or liver problems?
Yes, but your kidney and liver function should be monitored closely while taking erlotinib. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking erlotinib if you have kidney or liver problems.
What should I do if I experience vision problems while taking Erlocent?
Vision problems are a rare but serious side effect of erlotinib. If you experience any vision problems, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Do I need to wear protective clothing while taking Erlocent?
Yes, it is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing while taking erlotinib. This will help protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.
Can I breastfeed while taking Erlocent?
No, it is not recommended to breastfeed while taking erlotinib. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and potential benefits of taking erlotinib while breastfeeding.
Can Erlocent cause hair loss?
Yes, hair loss is a common side effect of erlotinib. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of taking erlotinib and the potential for hair loss.
What technologies are used to make Erlocent?
Erlocent is manufactured using a combination of chemical and biologic processes. Its active ingredient is erlotinib hydrochloride, a small molecule inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor.
Can I take Erlocent if I'm allergic to penicillin?
Erlocent contains a different active ingredient than penicillin, so it should not cause an allergic reaction. However, it is always important to tell your healthcare provider about any allergies or sensitivities you may have before taking any medication.
Is there a generic version of Erlocent?
Yes, there is a generic version of erlotinib available. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if a generic version is right for you.
Is Erlocent a chemotherapy drug?
No, erlotinib is not a chemotherapy drug. It is an oral targeted therapy designed to block the effects of the epidermal growth factor receptor and is used to treat certain types of cancer.