Iressa (generic name: Gefitinib) is a drug used to treat non-small cell lung cancer, which is one type of lung cancer.

Iressa is a selective inhibitor of a growth factor that is found in non-small cell lung cancer. By blocking the action of the growth factor Iressa may slow or stop the growth of non-small cell lung cancer.

Iressa is currently only indicated for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who have previously received chemotherapy.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Iressa exactly as directed.

The usual dose is one 250 mg tablet each day.

It is best to take your tablet at the same time each day, e.g. in the morning, but it does not matter whether you take it with or without food.

Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.

The tablet can also be dispersed in half a glass of drinking water (non-carbonated). No other liquids should be used. Drop the tablet in the water without crushing it, stir until the tablet is dispersed (approximately 10 minutes) and drink the liquid immediately. Rinse the glass with half a glass of water and drink.

Precautions

Tell your doctor before taking Iressa, if:

you are allergic to any medicines;
you have or have had any other lung diseases, other than your lung cancer;
you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: gefitinib.