How long does it take to take Gefitinib?

Gefitinib (Gefitinib) is a targeted drug used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The length of time it is used can vary depending on the patient's condition, treatment effect, drug resistance and doctor's recommendations. In general, the duration of treatment with gefitinib can be extended from months to years as follows:

1.Treatment response: Initial gefitinib treatment may lead to tumor shrinkage or stabilization, and some patients will have a good response in the early stages of treatment. However, over time, some patients may develop drug resistance, resulting in the drug becoming less effective.

2.The problem of drug resistance: During gefitinib treatment, some patients will gradually develop drug resistance, that is, the drug's inhibitory effect on tumors will weaken. This may be because tumor cells gradually develop resistance mechanisms to the drugs. The therapeutic effect of gefitinib may be diminished when resistance develops.

3.Treatment modification: Before resistance appears or after resistance develops, doctors may consider adjusting treatment. This may include switching to other targeted agents, combinations, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other treatment strategies to extend patient survival.

4.Personalized treatment: Each patient’s condition is unique, and the doctor will adjust and formulate a treatment plan based on the patient’s specific situation and efficacy. In some cases, treatment with gefitinib may be continued for several years, but in other cases, treatment modifications may need to be considered earlier.

Gefitinib was launched in China in 2005. At that time, the price of a box was about 5,000 yuan. Enter medical insurance in China in 2017. The price after medical insurance has dropped a lot. For the specific price after medical insurance, please consult the local hospital pharmacy or the medical insurance bureau. Other versions include original drugs and cost-effective generic drugs. Generic drugs include generic drugs from India, Bangladesh and Laos. The prices vary with different specifications, about 200~800yuan, and the ingredients of generic drugs are basically the same as domestic drugs.