LuciGefi 250mg, Gefitinib Tablets

Gefitinib is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor included in the targeted oncology drug LuciGefi 250mg. This oral therapy is designed primarily for patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially those who have specific EGFR mutations. By targeting abnormal growth signaling in cancer cells, LuciGefi offers a more personalized approach to cancer treatment with better outcomes for eligible patients.

What is LuciGefi 250mg?

LuciGefi 250mg is a prescription medication used in the management of certain types of lung cancer. The active ingredient, Gefitinib, is a first-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It blocks specific pathways that cancer cells use to grow and divide uncontrollably. Gefitinib is typically used in patients whose tumors have mutations in the EGFR gene, which are often detected through a diagnostic test.

How LuciGefi Works / Mechanism of Action

Gefitinib works by preventing the epidermal growth factor receptor’s (EGFR) tyrosine kinase activity. In many cancers, especially non-small cell lung cancers, mutations in the EGFR gene result in constant activation of this receptor, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor growth.

LuciGefi binds to the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR, blocking the phosphorylation and activation of downstream signaling proteins involved in cell division and survival. This targeted mechanism makes LuciGefi particularly effective in tumors with EGFR-activating mutations, such as exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitutions.

How to Use / Indications

Indications for LuciGefi 250mg include:

• First-line treatment of patients with EGFR-mutant metastatic NSCLC.
• Treatment of patients who have failed prior chemotherapy regimens and whose cancer has progressed due to EGFR mutation-positive status.
• It is not effective in patients with wild-type EGFR or other mutations not sensitive to Gefitinib.

How to Take / Dosage

Standard Dosage:

• 250 mg orally once daily, with or without food.
• LuciGefi should be taken at the same time every day. The tablets should not be chewed, broken, or crushed; instead, they should be eaten whole with water.

Note: Treatment should only be started after confirming EGFR mutation-positive status using an approved diagnostic test.

Other Dosage and Considerations

No dose adjustment is typically required based on age, body weight, or gender.

In case of severe adverse reactions (e.g., interstitial lung disease, hepatotoxicity), dose interruption or discontinuation may be necessary.

Patients with hepatic or renal impairment should be monitored closely, although no routine dose adjustment is initially required.

Side Effects

Like all cancer treatments, LuciGefi can cause side effects. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Rash or acne-like skin eruptions
• Dry skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Eye irritation or conjunctivitis

Serious Side Effects:

• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) – potentially fatal; presents with new or worsening respiratory symptoms.
• Hepatotoxicity: Regular monitoring of liver function is necessary.
• Gastrointestinal perforation
• Severe skin reactions – including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare).
• Ocular toxicity – such as corneal ulceration or keratitis.
• Patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they notice severe or unusual symptoms.

Storage

• Store below 30°C in a dry place.
• Protect from moisture and direct light.
• Keep the tablets in the original blister pack until use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Benefits

• Targeted therapy: Acts specifically on cancer cells with EGFR mutations.
• Convenient oral administration: No hospital visits required for infusion.
• Improved progression-free survival: Demonstrated in several clinical trials in EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients.
• Better quality of life: Less systemic toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Prescription

LuciGefi is a prescription-only medication and must be used under the supervision of an oncologist. To determine whether EGFR mutations are present, patients must have genetic testing done before beginning treatment. Continued monitoring is essential to evaluate response and manage side effects.

Interactions

Gefitinib can interact with several other medications and substances:

Drug Interactions:

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers: Reduce Gefitinib absorption by increasing gastric pH.
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin): Can decrease Gefitinib levels and reduce efficacy.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): May increase plasma levels of Gefitinib and risk toxicity.
• Warfarin: Enhanced anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
• Food Interactions: LuciGefi can be taken with or without food, but consistent timing is advisable.

FAQs 

What is LuciGefi 250mg used for?

It is used to treat EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer.

How does Gefitinib work?

It blocks EGFR signaling, stopping cancer cell growth and division.

Is a prescription required for LuciGefi?

Yes, it must be prescribed by a specialist after EGFR testing.

Can LuciGefi cause skin issues?

Yes, rashes and dry skin are common side effects.

Conclusion

LuciGefi 250mg (Gefitinib) represents a powerful, targeted treatment for patients with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC, offering improved survival and a better side-effect profile compared to conventional chemotherapy. However, it requires careful selection of patients via genetic testing and should be prescribed and monitored by experienced oncologists. With proper use, LuciGefi offers patients the hope of longer progression-free survival and improved quality of life in the face of advanced lung cancer.