Can I get a rash while taking Erlotinib?

Taking erlotinib (Erlotinib) may cause a rash. Rash is one of the common side effects when using erlotinib. About 30% to 70% of patients will experience rash reactions of varying degrees.

This rash usually appears days to weeks after treatment begins and may appear as a red, itchy, pimple-like rash, most often on exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest, and back. Although this rash usually does not cause serious health problems, it can have an impact on the patient's quality of life because it can cause itching, discomfort, and social distress.

The mechanism of this rash is not entirely clear, but some studies believe it may be related to the inhibitory effect of erlotinib on the growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the skin. EGFR is also found in skin cells, so drugs may affect the normal function of the skin and cause rashes.

Usually, erlotinib-induced rash does not require discontinuation of treatment because the rash is often related to the effects of the drug. However, in some cases, if the rash is severely affecting the patient's quality of life or there are signs of infection, the doctor may consider adjusting the dose or providing some supportive care to relieve symptoms.

It is important that patients should regularly report any side effects, including rash, to their doctor while taking erlotinib. Doctors can provide appropriate advice and management based on the severity of symptoms and the patient's condition to ensure patients receive optimal treatment results while reducing discomfort.

Erlotinib has been launched in China and has been included in medical insurance. Patients can purchase it domestically. The domestic price ranges from about 700 to 1,000. The specification is 150mg*7 tablets. Due to different medical insurance policies in different places, the price is also different. Please consult the local pharmacy or medical insurance bureau for details. Erlotinib abroad is mainly an Indian generic drug, with a price of about 900 yuan. The specifications are divided into 100mg*30 tablets and 150mg*30 tablets, which are about four times the domestic specifications, but the price is similar to that in China.